As someone who gets hot quite often, I started planning for this year’s warm weather in advance. And at the top of my want list was a sleek portable fan. Then I spotted the likes of Alix Earle sporting the Shark ChillPill at Coachella. Followed by Justin Bieber releasing his own now sold-out limited-edition colorway of this chic fan.
Safe to say, that was enough to inspire me to give the ChillPill a chance. And after a month of living with it, it’s at the top of my recommendations for things to buy before a heatwave.
It’s easy to use, efficiently cooling, and has a long-lasting battery for those never-ending days in the sun. And above all, it’s actually good-looking. The pictures just don’t do the fan justice. But there are some things to know about the fan before you add it to cart. So, here’s my review to help you decide if it’s worth it.
Shark
ChillPill – Glacier
Although the Shark ChillPill in Haze was my original color of choice, I reviewed this fun teal version instead. And I’ve already received multiple compliments on it. With a fan, cooling plate, and misting attachment, this might be one of the best portable fans I’ve tried yet.
Is the Shark ChillPill Good Quality?
For when you wish to go hands-free and rest it on a surface.
Image credit: Future / Amiya Baratan
In the classic fan mode, it provides a steady wind that’s perfect for continual cooling.
Image credit: Future / Amiya Baratan
With the cooling plate attachment, you can press the surface to your skin for a surge of comforting iciness.
Image credit: Future / Amiya Baratan
And on the misting mode, you can fill the attachment with water for a soothing, subtle spray of cool water.
Image credit: Future / Amiya Baratan
Yes, the Shark ChillPill is absolutely good quality. Weighing in at 350g, it’s comfortably light to carry around but heavy enough to know that it’s crafted with high-quality materials.
It’s one of the best gadgets for a heatwave, especially if you plan to be out and about. And the long battery life is the final aspect that seals the deal on this portable fan.
How Does the Shark ChillPill Hold Up in the Heat?
This misting attachment is the ChillPill’s most innovative feature for a quick cool down.
(Image credit: Future / Amiya Baratan)
The Shark ChillPill features three settings for beating the heat. A fan for classic, consistent cooling, a misting attachment with a small space to fill with water for a refreshing spritz, and a satisfying cooling plate to press to your skin.
So, you can step out or move around with your attachment of choice — mine would be the fan. Or if you’re carrying a bag with you, then the remaining attachments are just as portable. And all it takes to switch one of the other is a quick twist.
It’s also worth noting that the fan and mist are fairly quiet on lower settings but tend to get louder as you dial up the fan’s intensity or speed. The cooling plate is the quietest option of all three.
How Does the Shark ChillPill Rank on Style?
As far as portable, handheld fans go, the Shark ChillPill is one of the most stylish electronic designs I’ve ever come across. I’ll be honest, when I first scrolled through pictures of the fan on my screen, I was not convinced of how sleek it would look in real life.
But after seeing the fans in person, I can confidently say that the pictures don’t do the product any justice. The mixed matte and shiny finish, along with the vibrant colors and the twistable form, make it a fashionable fan for the warmer months.
This ‘Haze’ and the ‘Dragon Fruit’ were the colors that originally caught my eye and sold out at the time. But now this blueosh purple ‘Haze’ is back in stock!
Shark
ChillPill – Iced Latte
If you’re a minimalist, then this muted ‘Iced Latte’ color is a beautiful caramel bronze that will go with almost any look.
You can also keep it simple and opt for pure function with this ‘Carbon’ finish.
Is the Shark ChillPill Worth It?
Yes, the Shark ChillPill is worth it. At £130, you benefit from the three cooling settings in one chic design-y fan that’s portable and long-lasting. It’ll keep you from overheating on public transport, while you stroll the city, or even when you’re trying to keep cool at outdoor restaurants.
And the fact that the ChillPill is tough to get your hands on is a testament to its very real hype. But if your color of choice is sold out by the time you’re reading this, then here are some alternatives.
Dyson
Blush HushJet Mini Fan
Dyson’s Blush HushJet Mini Fan is another hot-seller that models an aesthetic facade.
Printworks
Mobile Table Fan Fantastic
For something a little more home-friendly, let me introduce you to this table fan from Printworks.
H&M
Dark Khaki Green Folding Fan
Before the ChillPill, I’d carry a hand fan with me everywhere. And this scalloped style from H&M might be my next heatwave purchase.
Looking for more ways to cool down? Perhaps it’s time to get a taste of the best ice cream in London, read our hot sleeper guide, or treat your home to Shark’s Turboblade. And in the meantime, so you don’t miss out on the coolest launches (literally and otherwise), sign up for the Livingetc newsletter.
