KICKSTARTECH Review
ZERA mini – The True Card-Sized Cooling Fan
The Kickstarter creator ZERA has just shipped us a sample of their latest product, named the ZERA mini. When companies launch a “mini” version of a flagship product ZREA MAX, it usually comes with a compromise. You would expect it to be a downgrade. However, carrying the slogan “Mini Size, Mega Wind,” this ultra-portable jet fan punches way above its weight class.
Design and Portability: Truly Card-Sized
The standout feature of the mini is its astonishingly small footprint and weight. The device is literally “Card-Sized”. Standing at just 3.15 inches tall, with a cylinder width of 1.42 inches and a depth of 1.02 inches, it is likely the smallest fan of this type available. Weighing at a mere 69g (2.43oz), it is lighter than most smartphones, making it an effortless addition to a pocket or purse everyday setup.
Additionally, the build features a retro aesthetic that reminds us of the classic iPods. The LED display indicates battery percentage or speed settings, ensuring you are never caught off guard by a dead battery. Furthermore, the 360° Rotatable clip design allows for hands-free cooling, meaning you can anchor it to your shirt collar, backpack strap, or belt and angle it exactly the way you like it. Some of these are only included on bigger packages.
Beyond the physical components, the initial impression of the ZERA MAX 2 is one of thoughtful engineering. The product description highlights its core capabilities: rapid cooling, soothing warmth, Thermtech technology, AI control, and an exclusive APP. This suggests a comprehensive ecosystem designed to deliver personalized climate comfort.
The ZERA Team’s track record with multiple successful campaigns, as noted in the project risks and challenges, instills a degree of confidence. Their commitment to transparency and continuous improvement for their backers is a positive sign. While shipping costs remain considerations, the initial unboxing of the ZERA MAX 2 lays a strong foundation for a promising device.
Performance Testing: Small Size, Mega Wind
Despite its size, the ZERA mini claims to pack a serious punch. Driven by a motor pushing 30,000 RPM, this little jet fan can generate wind speeds of up to 13 m/s. To test this out, we have done a simple test. Printer paper is shredded to many pieces and laid across the table, simulating a clean-up scenario. We will use the max setting on the ZERA mini. The “fast select” mode skips 25% per click, saving us time.
As you can see from the video, it managed to clean up the table within seconds, closely resembling the performance of the classic MAX. The wind tunnel/diameter was noticeably narrower, but that is expected from such a compact duct. It will also be helpful at starting a fire, which requires wind speed rather than volume.
Pros:
- Extremely lightweight (69g) and true credit-card proportions.
- Powerful 30,000 RPM motor delivering up to 13 m/s wind speed.
- Battery life up to 10 hours.
- Clear digital display with useful speed options.
- Hands-free flexibility with the 360° rotatable mount.
Cons:
- The small duct size means the air stream is highly concentrated, which is excellent for targeted blowing or dusting, but less effective at cooling a wider area.
- Higher setting can accidental blow objects away, so it is best to get used to the controls first.
Conclusion
The ZERA Mini is a beautiful example in product downsizing. It takes the core utility of a heavy jet fan and compresses it into a 69g frame without stripping away the features that matter.
Plus, it comes in really cool colors and accessories: Two different lengths of lanyard, carabiners, and a 360-degree rotating clip create more possibilities for the use of the ZERA mini.
We heard that it will be priced competitively, so you can probably get several of them at once. Recommended!
