We Tested Mike Tyson's Weed Odor Eliminator: Does The HotBox Air Purifier Really Remove Cannabis Smell From The Air?

Higher Innovation, an Austin-based cannabis technology company, recently introduced the HotBox Portable Air Purifier, a mid-sized device (7.75″ L x 7.75″ W x 8″ H), roughly the size of a small kitchen appliance –like a toaster, aimed at eliminating cannabis smoke and odors in real-time. Retailing at $249, the American-made purifier claims to drastically reduce airborne contaminants, appealing to consumers who need discretion without compromising their lifestyle.

The device has already caught the attention of cultural icon Mike Tyson, who partnered with Higher Innovation to launch the TYSON 2.0 HotBox—a branded version that debuted at MJBizCon 2024 in Las Vegas. But beyond the celebrity endorsement, does this gadget truly deliver on its promises, and who really needs it?

Who Is The HotBox For?

Cannabis has become mainstream, but stigma remains. While some proudly display their stash, others prefer discretion—whether for personal reasons or external pressures. The HotBox Portable Air Purifier caters to several key demographics:

• Parents who use cannabis but want to keep their homes odor-free.
• Apartment dwellers looking to avoid complaints from neighbors.
• Medical cannabis patients who want to eliminate secondhand smoke.
• Remote workers who don't want their home office to smell like a dispensary.
• Users in restrictive housing—whether due to landlords, roommates, or local laws.

With cannabis still illegal in many jurisdictions, reducing odor isn't just about comfort—it can be a legal safeguard. "Cannabis is an extremely difficult smell to tackle," Higher Innovation CEO Ashley Ciccel says. "We address the problem with a two-pronged approach: capture and conceal." The HotBox captures airborne smoke, while the included Smell Away spray further neutralizes residual odors.

Performance And Features

The HotBox combines a three-layer filtration system to purify the air:

• Carbon Pre-filter: Captures larger smoke particles.
• HEPA Particulate Filter: Eliminates fine airborne contaminants.
• 2" Activated Carbon Pellets: Absorbs odors at a molecular level.

Positioned near the smoke source, the device effectively captures exhaled smoke, preventing it from spreading. "To use, position the device to capture as much smoke as possible… exhale into the inlet… leave the unit running to continue purifying the air," Ciccel explains. The purifier also comes with a lockable smell-proof bag, making it easy to store discreetly.

Does It Work? Hands-On Testing

In real-world testing, the HotBox performs best in mid-sized spaces like a bedroom or living room. It eliminates most odors quickly, but its effectiveness depends on placement. If you blow smoke directly into the machine, it works efficiently, reducing smells within minutes. However, if smoke spreads throughout the room, it takes longer to fully remove lingering odors. The additional Smell Away spray can help accelerate odor elimination when needed.

The unit runs for six hours on battery power or can be plugged into a standard 120V outlet. With four fan speeds and a coverage area of up to 100 square feet, it's ideal for small apartments, home offices, or personal spaces.

The Verdict And Alternatives

The HotBox Portable Air Purifier is an effective, well-designed device for smoke-conscious cannabis users who value discretion. It's not necessarily a full-room air purifier but rather a personal smoke filtration system that works best when used near the source.

At $249, the price is on the high end for an odor-management device. However, the combination of filtration, discretion and targeted performance makes it a compelling option for those who need a reliable way to keep their spaces smoke-free.

For those looking for alternatives, options like sploofs (personal smoke filters like SmokeBuddy or Philter Labs), HEPA-based home air purifiers, such as Levoit or Dyson models, and activated charcoal bags can also help reduce odors at varying levels of effectiveness. However, none of these alternatives offer the direct smoke capture feature that the HotBox provides.

As cannabis culture evolves, innovations like the HotBox reflect a growing demand for products that blend lifestyle with functionality.

Courtesy photo