Asus introduces monitors with built-in air purifiers, because why not?

Starting at $130

by · TechSpot

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WTF?! Have you ever wished that your monitor contained an air purification unit? Probably not, but this seemingly niche product has become a reality thanks to Asus, which is making three of these displays measuring different sizes and priced from $130 to $359.

Asus says its new VU Air Ionizer series is designed to enhance users' well-being. The main attraction is the air ionizer found in each of the monitors. Asus claims it effectively removes pollen, allergen, and other pollutants, and reduces 90% of airborne dust in just three hours.

The ionizer has an effective coverage area of 1m³, which should be enough for anyone sitting in front of one of these monitors. It doesn't require filters, either.

The displays themselves are available in 23.8-inch, 27-inch, and 34-inch sizes. The two smaller models feature an IPS panel, 1080p resolutions on the 16:9 screens, and 250 nits brightness. They also offer 1,300:1 contrast ratios, 178° viewing angles, and up to 100Hz refresh rates.

The 34-inch Asus VU34WCIP-W monitor uses a VA panel and has a 3440 x 1440 (21:9) ultrawide resolution, a 3,000:1 contrast ratio, and reaches 300 nits. The 100Hz refresh rate and 1ms MPRT response times remain the same.

Another interesting feature of these monitors is their packaging. Asus says that rather than just throwing the cardboard boxes away for recycling, as is the norm, they are designed to be folded into different shapes and repurposed as desk accessories.

The packaging for the smaller models can be folded into a phone holder, desk organizer, and a small laptop stand, while the larger monitor's box can turn into a phone holder, desk organizer, a laptop stand, and a file holder. The laptop stands and phone holders have been designed to promote proper posture and reduce neck and back strain, according to Asus.

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One could argue that with some spare time and a few materials, most packaging could be turned into similar accessories, but being designed specifically for this purpose is a nice touch.

If you do want to breathe easier at your desk, the 23.8-inch Asus VU249HFI-W starts at just $129.99. The 27-inch Asus VU279HFI-W is $159.99, and the 34-inch Asus VU34WCIP-W is $359.99. Buyers also get one free month of Adobe Creative Cloud to sweeten the deal.

Asus is no stranger to adding unconventional features to traditional PC hardware. Last month, the company revealed a scented wireless mouse that emits a customizable aroma.