Review: USB powered Vacuum Cleaner

2 days ago I recieved my very own USB powered Vacuum cleaner, so I decided to write a small review.

First off, it’s got 2 attachments, each for different applications. The first one is a small tube section. This is very usful to help clean those tight stops between the keys of a keyboard. The second has a small brush infront of 3 suction holes. Up to now I used this part to clean the innards of my PC (Videocard and other PCI cards).

Apart from ‘off’, the power switch has 2 settings, one lights up the LED (which shows you what you’re sucking up) at the bottom, and the second powers the fan, as well as the LED. It’s a noisy fellow. Instinctively one would put his hand in front of the vacuum’s nozel to check out its suction. My first reaction was, “Is this the right end?”. It’s very weak. But fear not, for at the bottom there’s a ‘POWER UP’ button. Hold it, and the device goes into high gear. Alas, it still wouldn’t suck my palm. The last thing to make so much noise took 3 men into outer space. Mind you, it can suck up dust and the odd hair, but don’t expect much.

Alternatively, if you want to clean your keyboard, just shake it upside down. For the cards, use a brush from a hardware store or canned air. All these solutions are cheaper and quieter then the USB mini-vac, and more effective… but not half as cool.

Including postage and packing, mine cost me £4.91($9.14) off ebay. Even if at the end of the day it’s just a bit of plastic with a noisy fan, saying “I have a USB powered vacuum cleaner!” and watching your friend’s reaction is priceless. I’m sure any fellow geek or gadget lover would agree. It even comes in different colours to suit your taste.

Final verdict: Get one and hang it on your wall.