Sony REON Pocket Pro Plus review: Quiet personal cooling is a bliss, but comes at a premium

Sony's REON Pocket Pro Plus is a unique wearable cooling device that stands out in the U.S. market. Unlike neck fans or cooling towels, this device uses thermoelectric cooling and heating technology, providing a sensation of cooling or warmth through direct contact with the back of your neck. The device consists of two thermal modules, or Peltier plates, that rest against your neck and create the cooling or heating sensation depending on your needs.

Sony has incorporated intelligent features into the REON Pocket Pro Plus, such as a small sensor that clips onto a backpack or belt to measure surrounding temperature and humidity. This information allows the device's Smart mode to automatically adjust the cooling or heating level as the environment changes, eliminating the need to constantly adjust settings.

The device also includes manual controls with five cooling levels, each offering a noticeable difference in performance, allowing users to adapt to various weather conditions and personal cooling preferences.

While the cooling feature is the primary reason to consider the REON Pocket Pro Plus, the device also includes a heating mode that could be useful in colder temperatures. However, the optimal performance depends on the way the device is worn, as air is drawn in through a vent on the bottom and exhausted through the top. For the best cooling experience, the upper vent should be outside the shirt collar.

There are some limitations to using the REON Pocket Pro Plus. Sony advises against using the device while exercising, as the cooling plate needs direct contact with your skin to work effectively. In very hot conditions, the cooling sensation might make it difficult to gauge how much heat your body is retaining, potentially increasing the risk of overheating. The device is intended for everyday comfort rather than strenuous outdoor activities.

Despite its design and features, the REON Pocket Pro Plus offers a discreet and quiet cooling experience compared to traditional neck fans. The device includes different vent extensions, allowing for a secure fit with various outfits. The adjustable neckband ensures a comfortable fit during use, and the quiet operation makes it suitable for settings like airplanes or offices where noise might be a concern.