Sony's Neck Air Conditioner: The Reon Pocket 5 Pro Tested - A Hot Day's Savior!
By Klaus Wedekind
Worn around the neck, a novel cooling solution from the past.
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The sweltering heatwave last weekend had us all reaching for the tried-and-true neck cooling remedies, like damp towels. But what if there was a sleeker, more high-tech solution? Enter the Sony Reon Pocket 5 Pro, a portable neck air conditioner that promises to keep you cool and comfortable without the stiffness associated with traditional methods.
A Modern Neck Cooler
This compact device, built to withstand sweat and splashes, weighs a mere 250 grams and dons a drone-like design, sans propellers. It's fitted with a flexible neck strap and sports a curved inner metal plate, hosting two thermo-modules. The device's top vents heat, while its bottom draws in air for an additional cooling effect.
Two nozzle lengths are available to cater to both T-shirts and shirt collars. Unique to this gadget is the smart remote control, which allows for temperature adjustments via a mobile app. However, manual control options are also available.
Smart or Manual?
Users can opt for manual control, allowing for step-by-step temperature adjustments, or let the device's smart system take over. The smart system uses sensors to monitor body and air temperature, as well as air humidity. The system also includes a wear detection feature that automatically starts and stops the device when put on or taken off.
For a more accurate environment reading, a small tag that measures temperature and air humidity can be attached to clothing or a handbag. The tag boasts a motion sensor to detect physical activity and a light sensor that registers direct sunlight or when the tag is in a bag.
Get the Perfect Fit
For optimal performance, achieving a snug fit is vital. The holding strap can be adjusted in length or removed, allowing you to find the perfect fit. However, the device may take some time to set up for optimal comfort, especially for those with prominent spinal processes.
In proper alignment, users will feel the cooling sensation almost instantly. The device responds swiftly to manual temperature changes and prevents overcooling through its smart auto function. Though it can be used for heating and cooling simultaneously, it may seem counterintuitive, this feature can be helpful in an over-air-conditioned office or during extreme weather.
Long-lasting Battery Life
Despite close proximity to the ears, the Sony Reon Pocket 5 Pro is relatively quiet – perfect for a nap. In testing, battery life held up surprisingly well, with the device managing more than eight hours on a single charge in auto mode. During peak usage on a hot day, the device can run for about 5.5 hours.
The battery charger requires a whopping 200 minutes, but you can extend runtime by connecting an external power bank to the device.
Verdict
Clearly, Sony isn't new to portable thermo devices, and the Reon Pocket 5 Pro feels well-thought-out, functional, and ideal for daily use. While its price tag of 230 euros might seem steep, it could prove a worthwhile investment for those who spend considerable time outdoors or in un-airconditioned spaces during the summer. Plus, it's not just beneficial in warm weather – it can also keep you cozy in the cold!
Enrichment Data:
- Battery Life Options: The device offers different battery life options based on the cooling settings. Here's a breakdown of the battery life:
- COOL Level 1: Approximately 34 hours.
- COOL Level 2: Approximately 24 to 27 hours.
- COOL Level 3: Approximately 16 to 18 hours.
- COOL Level 4: Approximately 10 hours.
- COOL Level 5: Approximately 6 to 5.5 hours.
- Smart Mode: Approximately 15 hours.
- Warmer Settings: If applicable, the warmer settings on the device provide the following battery life:
- WARM Level 1: Approximately 10 hours.
- WARM Level 2: Approximately 8 hours.
- WARM Level 3: Approximately 6.5 hours.
- WARM Level 4: Approximately 5.5 hours.
Note that the Reon Pocket 5 is an older model with less battery life compared to the Pro version. The Reon Pocket 5 is reported to have a much shorter battery life, typically around 10 hours at its most efficient setting.
The Commission, in light of the advanced technology used in devices like the Sony Reon Pocket 5 Pro, could potentially be asked to submit a proposal for a directive on the protection of workers from the risks related to exposure to ionizing radiation emitted by such high-tech gadgets. The Sony Reon Pocket 5 Pro, in its smart system, uses sensors to monitor various factors, suggesting a potential integration of technology and worker safety concerns in the near future.
