The Best Essential Oil Diffusers

The Aera smart diffuser is gorgeous and offers so much to love. I tested both the full-size version (a tabletop diffuser suitable for up to 1,000 square feet) and the Mini (a plug-in diffuser suitable for up to 400 square feet). I like the modern design and that the Mini comes in three colors (forest green, terra-cotta, and white), though I wish the full-size model were available in fun colors, too.

These devices are simple to set up, with or without the app. I appreciate the way the scent capsules stick out slightly above the top of each diffuser model, making the fragrances easy to grip and swap out. The full-size machine also has a helpful button to eject the scent capsule.

The fragrance-filled capsules come in different sizes for each diffuser ($60 for full-size, $30 for Mini), and can last for up to three months. Capsule longevity depends on how frequently you run the device and at what strength. According to Aera, running either device 10 hours per day at a mid-strength setting should yield capsules that last around two months.

To use a capsule, remove its packaging and then its bottom and top plugs. (Make sure to save the plugs for later use in case you want to swap scents midway through their cycle.) Plop it in, and your diffuser will get to work.

Aera devices have manual controls for scent strength and starting a routine, which you can also manage remotely from a companion app. In the companion app, you can set a schedule, adjust fragrance strength, and reorder capsules (which are also available on Amazon). That’s the extent of the smart features you’ll get here—unlike the Pura, Aera doesn’t have Google Home or Alexa functions.

Every scent I’ve tried has smelled good, and I like that the intermittent mist doesn’t overwhelm any room with fragrance. The effect is certainly noticeable, but not aggressively so. I especially liked the brand’s True Loves line, which uses the proprietary OdorOut odor neutralizer that’s designed for tough smells—perfect for pet households. Aera claims its scents are hypoallergenic and safe for pets, though I still keep my cat away when using them, just in case.