Airthings View Plus vs Wave Plus: Which Should You Choose? (November 2026)
Choose the View Plus for WiFi, an eInk display and PM2.5; choose the Wave Plus for Bluetooth readings and a color-coded visual indicator. Both monitor radon, CO2, VOCs, humidity, temperature and air pressure.
On this page (6 sections)
Choose the View Plus for WiFi, an eInk display and PM2.5; choose the Wave Plus for Bluetooth app readings and a color-coded visual indicator. Both monitor radon and 5 other shared air factors: CO2, VOCs, humidity, temperature and air pressure.
The main difference in this Airthings View Plus vs Wave Plus comparison is how you access readings and whether you want PM2.5 monitoring. The View Plus connects by WiFi and shows information on its customizable eInk screen, while the Wave Plus connects to the Airthings app over Bluetooth and gives a visual indication when you wave in front of it.
Airthings View Plus vs Wave Plus: what is the main difference?
The View Plus combines WiFi, an eInk screen and PM2.5 sensing; the Wave Plus offers Bluetooth app access and a color-coded visual indication. Both are battery-powered radon and indoor air monitors.
The View Plus covers 7 factors: radon, PM2.5, CO2, VOCs, humidity, temperature and air pressure. The Wave Plus covers 6: radon, CO2, VOCs, humidity, temperature and air pressure.
Your choice depends on which difference matters in your rooms. If you want to see readings on the monitor itself and track fine particles, the View Plus fits better; if you mainly want a quick visual cue and Bluetooth app checks, consider the Wave Plus.
For an overview of the best Airthings radon detector, compare what each model measures with how you plan to check its readings. The number of sensors alone doesn't determine which monitor will suit your home.
Which display makes readings easier to check?
The View Plus has a customizable eInk screen, while the Wave Plus gives a color-coded visual indication when you wave in front of it. Choose based on whether you want displayed readings or a quick visual cue.
The View Plus's screen puts information on the unit itself. It is useful if you want to glance at the monitor without first opening an app.
The Wave Plus uses a different approach. Its color-coded response is designed for a quick check, while detailed insights are available through the Airthings app over Bluetooth.
Is an eInk screen or color indicator better for your routine?
An eInk screen suits someone who wants visible readings at the monitor. Think about where you'll place it and whether you can comfortably see the screen from the room.
The Wave Plus's indicator suits someone who wants a simple status check rather than a screen to read. You wave in front of the device, then use the app when you want more detail.
For a closer look at its screen and other features, read our Airthings View Plus review. Compare that with your actual checking routine, not just the number of sensors.
How do WiFi and Bluetooth change access?
The View Plus uses WiFi and internet access; the Wave Plus connects to the Airthings app by Bluetooth. That difference affects how you access readings and what setup you need.
The View Plus and its app both require internet access, and an Airthings account is required. If your WiFi or internet is unreliable where you plan to use it, consider that requirement before choosing.
The Wave Plus connects to the app through Bluetooth. Its visual indicator offers a quick check at the unit, and the app provides detailed insights when your phone is nearby.
Airthings lists both models as compatible with Airthings View series devices and the Airthings Hub. The View Plus also lists Homey compatibility, while the Wave Plus lists Alexa; compatibility depends on your setup and the task you want to automate.
Check our guide to Airthings Wave Plus compatibility if you plan to connect it with other devices. For a smart home connection using the View Plus, see how to connect Airthings View Plus to Home Assistant.
Which sensors do the two monitors include?
Both models measure radon, CO2, VOCs, humidity, temperature and air pressure; the View Plus also measures PM2.5. Choose the View Plus if fine particle readings are part of your indoor air monitoring plan.
PM2.5 refers to fine particulate matter. It may be relevant if you want to monitor particles associated with sources such as air pollution or smoke, but a reading by itself doesn't identify the source.
Both monitors track CO2, VOCs, humidity, temperature and air pressure alongside radon. Those readings can help you notice changes in room conditions over time, but they don't replace a professional assessment when you need one.
Does the Wave Enhance replace either radon monitor?
No. The Wave Enhance does not include radon sensing, so it isn't a substitute for either the View Plus or Wave Plus when radon monitoring is your goal.
It measures CO2, VOCs, humidity, temperature and air pressure, and also tracks noise and light. Consider it for bedroom or home office conditions when those extra readings matter, or when you already have a separate radon monitor.
How do battery power and placement compare?
Both monitors are battery powered, but their stated average battery lives differ: 2 years for the View Plus and 1.5 years for the Wave Plus. Placement and access needs should guide where you put either unit.
The View Plus comes with 6 AA batteries and a USB-C cable. Its cable-free design allows flexible placement, while the Wave Plus comes with 2 AA batteries and is also battery powered.
Think about whether the monitor will be easy to reach when batteries need attention. If you're comparing long-term upkeep, read about the Airthings View Plus lifespan and View Plus battery replacement and power.
The Wave Plus's average battery life is shorter than the View Plus's stated average. See our guides to Airthings Wave Plus setup and Wave Plus battery life for placement and upkeep details.
Which Airthings monitor should you choose?
Pick the View Plus if you want WiFi-connected access, an eInk screen and PM2.5 sensing; pick the Wave Plus for Bluetooth app checks and a color-coded visual indication. Both cover radon and the same 5 other core air factors.
Choose the View Plus when you want to check readings on the unit, monitor PM2.5 or review data through its WiFi-connected setup. Choose the Wave Plus when its visual cue and Bluetooth app connection fit your habits.
If radon is your main concern, either model measures it. If you also want noise and light tracking and don't need radon sensing in that device, the Wave Enhance is a separate option.
Our score weighs specs, features and buyer feedback against what you're shopping for.
Frequently asked questions
Does the Airthings View Plus measure more than the Wave Plus?
The View Plus measures radon, PM2.5, CO2, VOCs, humidity, temperature and air pressure. The Wave Plus measures radon, CO2, VOCs, humidity, temperature and air pressure, so the View Plus adds PM2.5 monitoring.
Can you check the Wave Plus without opening the app?
Yes. Wave in front of the Wave Plus for a color-coded visual indication.
Or connect it to the Airthings app by Bluetooth for detailed insights.
The View Plus has a customizable eInk screen for on-device readings.
Does the View Plus need WiFi?
The View Plus is WiFi connected, and its monitor and app require internet access. It also requires an Airthings account and app to function, so check that your home connection and phone setup suit those needs.
Which Airthings monitor measures radon?
Both the View Plus and Wave Plus measure radon. The Wave Enhance tracks CO2, VOCs, humidity, temperature and air pressure, plus noise and light, but it does not include a radon sensor.
How long do the View Plus and Wave Plus batteries last?
The View Plus has an average battery life of 2 years, while the Wave Plus has an average battery life of 1.5 years. Actual battery life can vary, so check each model's instructions and power options when planning placement.
