Earlier this year, Razer showed off Project Hazel, a smart N95 medical-grade mask with Chroma RGB lighting. Two months ago, it was rebranded as Zephyr. After a beta test, that mask is now available to purchase as announced today RazerCon.
There are some design changes in the Zephyr compared to the first images of Project Hazel, but the general concept is the same. It’s a wearable air purifier infused with tech to help with communication.
The Razer Zephyr is FDA-registered and lab-tested for 99% Bacterial Filtration Efficiency (BFE). It features N95 grade filters with two-way protection. Razer claims that the filters last three times longer than single-use disposable masks. Of course, disposable masks also lack RGB, a silicone seal for a snug fit, and a transparent front that allows people to see facial expressions and read lips, all of which are on the Razer Zephyr.
Razer Zephyr filters the air that is inhaled and exhaled, not only protecting you but those around you. It has two air exchange chambers that let air flow in and out. And to improve circulation, there are two 2-speed fans, which also assist in cooling.
The facemask features a soft silicone face seal on the front and a dual strap design around the back. This setup should help the mask fit snuggly while still being comfortable.
While the driving focus for Zephyr is the 2020 COVID pandemic, recent outbreaks of the Delta variant (and Lambda) have brought the issue of mask-wearing back to the forefront of public health.
Masks have become popular to combat the respiratory effects of airborne pollution and even allergies for many. Moreover, in many Asian countries, wearing masks has become relatively routine following earlier outbreaks like SARS, the 2009 H1N1 flu pandemic, and the prevalence of Asian Dust. That makes Zephyr potentially more lucrative for those markets vs. Western ones with greater resistance to wearing masks (even one as cool looking as Zephyr).
Like many Razer products, the Zephyr supports Razer Chroma RGB. You can control the interior lights (including disabling) and fans with the Razer Zephyr app available on both iOS and Android.
More interestingly, the big news is that $99.99 price tag. Speculation since its announcement back in January was that it could cost hundreds of dollars. This price seems more doable.
Of course, Razer took a few steps to lower the cost of the Zephyr. Most notably, it does not have microphones and speakers for voice amplification, as shown in the original Project Hazel design. Nor is there a fancy enclosure with UV lighting for disinfecting that would also charge it back up. However, if there is demand for such features, Razer said it could add those in a more premium version later.
The lower price tag should make the mask more accessible to those who need to wear a mask all day with some style. A set of 10 Razer N95 filters costs $30 with each filter lasting for three days of usage. A starter pack with the Zephyr and three N95 filter packs is also available for $150.
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