Razer takes back claims its Zephyr mask uses 'N95-grade' filters

Source: Razer

Razer has scrubbed any mention of the term "N95-grade" on its marketing materials for the Zephyr and the recently launched Zephyr Pro after receiving criticism over the labelling. YouTuber Naomi Wu posted a Twitter thread over the weekend, drawing attention to the labels the company attached to the mask. She said its marketing was "deceptive," and pointed out that the N95 is an official certification by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health for respirators that filter out at least 95 percent of airborne particles. This designation involves the entire mask and not just a part of it, accounting for both fit and filtration. Neither Zephyr products are listed as NIOSH-approved respirators on the agency's site.

Wu claims Razer made the change following pressure from the Food and Drug Administration and NIOSH. But the company disputes the claim in a statement released to Engadget: "The clarification has come from Razer ourselves rather than an outside entity."

Razer's website now says: "Razer Zephyr is not a certified N95 mask, medical device, respirator, surgical mask or personal protective equipment (PPE) and is not meant to be used on medical or clinical settings." A company spokesperson told the publication it made the change to "avoid any confusion."

Now, Razer claims the Zephyr's filters are 95 percent effective in filtering out particles and 99 percent effective against bacteria. This reversal comes as public health officials in the US and other countries call on the public to wear surgical, N95, and KN95 masks instead of cloth masks.