ZEALOT AR816+ Digital LCD Anemometer Handheld Wind Speed Meter: Digital LCD display

Julia W. Chicago, IL

May 31, 2025

Decision:

as a stay-at-home parent in chicago, i bought this to help with things like checking if it's too windy for the kids to play outside or for our occasional camping trips. it's become a real workhorse for us—i use it a few times a week, especially when the weather changes suddenly. i can evaluate it pretty well after having it for a couple of months; it's held up nicely with the kids handling it, and it's straightforward enough that even my older child can help use it. the design is compact, so it doesn't take up much space, and i appreciate that it's reliable for what it does. overall, it seems like a solid choice for family use, though it might not be for professionals who need super high precision. would i recommend it? yes, especially if you're looking for something simple and dependable for everyday wind checks.

• Pros: i quite like how accurate it seems for checking wind speeds, which is super helpful for planning outdoor activities with the kids. it's very easy to use—just turn it on and get readings right away, no fuss. the display is clear and bright, making it simple to read even in different light conditions. plus, it's lightweight and portable, so i can toss it in my bag when we travel or use it around the house without it feeling bulky. it feels sturdy and well-made, like it can handle being used by the family without breaking easily.
• Cons: sometimes the readings can fluctuate a bit if there's a lot of movement, which might not be ideal for very precise needs. it doesn't come with any extra attachments or cases, so i had to find a way to protect it when not in use. the battery life seems decent but not amazing; i find myself charging it more often than i'd like for something i use sporadically. also, it only measures wind speed and not other things like temperature, which could be a downside if you're looking for more features.