Today, we’re diving into a hardware review of an intriguing device – the Deeper Connect Air. I’ll explain how it works, what it offers, and we’ll even take it apart to examine the hardware inside. Plus, I’ll share my experience using it over the past few months.
In a previous post, I discussed how recent internet regulations & censorship have affected everyone, including gamers, making traditional VPNs less effective. Some companies have also created artificial barriers, making it difficult for many people to access certain services or games. To tackle these issues, I explored decentralized VPNs (dVPNs) as a promising alternative.
This isn’t my first dVPN hardware—I’ve been using the Deeper Connect Mini for over a year. However, as I started traveling, I wondered if I wanted to bring the Mini along. Despite its compact size (similar to a small power bank), I wanted something even more portable. That’s when I found the Deeper Connect Air—offering the same functionality as the Mini, but in a smaller package.
What is a DPN?
In short, DPN (Decentralized Private Network) is a decentralized VPN (i like to refer this tech as dVPN). Unlike VPN services, whose servers are in fixed locations, each user device in a DPN network becomes an individual access point. Currently Deeper Network offers over 180,000 such nodes already, and it getting stronger with each new device, offering more options to enter the web.
The benefits of a DPN include a one-time payment for use, ad-blocking, and secure data transmission across the network. There are plenty of promotional materials that explain how it works and its core benefits, so I won’t go into those details—you likely already know them. Instead, let’s focus on the device itself.
Unboxing
The Deeper Connect Air arrived in a compact box that easily fits into a standard letterbox slot. The box features a silver-embossed logo as its only decoration. With its small size (similar to a standard NVMe drive) and convenient magnetic lid, it’s worth keeping for easy storage and transport.
Inside the box, I found the Deeper Connect Air and a Type-C to USB adapter. Instruction manuals and video guides are accessible via QR codes or online.
Here’s my unboxing video, featuring rich ASMR sounds and no commentary. You’ll get a full view of the device from all angles, and I’ve included a size comparison with the Deeper Connect Mini.
Design
In terms of design, the Deeper Connect Air differs significantly from the Mini version. Despite its metallic matte finish, the casing is entirely plastic, which helps save a few grams and perfectly aligns with the device’s travel-friendly design. The rectangular body features two built-in Wi-Fi antennas along its sides, which are foldable to enhance signal strength. Unlike the Mini, the Air has no input ports—only a USB Type-C port for power and data transmission.
The device also includes two LED indicators for power and operation, as well as a reset button. The antennas rotate for signal enhancement, but it’s important not to twist them too far—90 to 180 degrees is sufficient.
On the back of the device, you’ll find a reminder of the IP address where the device settings can be accessed.
Differences from the Mini
Since i own both, why not compare them? The Deeper Connect Air is significantly smaller—measuring just 75 x 46 x 8 mm compared to the Mini’s 130 x 67 x 20 mm. It weighs only 32 grams, whereas the Mini weighs 172 grams.
Unlike the Mini, which requires an external Wi-Fi antenna, the Air comes with built-in antennas and can operate as an access point, sharing Wi-Fi directly.
Features and Capabilities
The Deeper Connect Air can operate in two modes. The first is as a Wi-Fi dongle—plug it into your computer or laptop, and you can connect to Wi-Fi networks, with signals routed through the Air via the Type-C port.
The second mode is more versatile—you can power the Air via a power bank, phone charger, or even your phone, connect it to an existing Wi-Fi network, and then distribute a secured Wi-Fi connection to your other devices. In this case, the Air acts as a Wi-Fi router.
Despite its smaller size, the Air retains the full functionality of the larger models, running Deeper Network’s proprietary software on AtomOS.
Here’s what the Deeper Connect Air can do:
- Easy Setup: Just plug in the power, set up the Wi-Fi password, and configure the dVPN tunnel you want to use. It takes less than five minutes from unboxing to real usage. Plus, it has onboard memory, so you can set it aside for months, then power it up again and be back up and running in about 1 minute.
- Power Versatility: It can be powered by a laptop, phone, charger, power bank, or even a car—anything with a 5V/2A output.
- Multi-Device Compatibility: Works with multiple devices and apps simultaneously, allowing you to customize functionality for each.
- Data Protection: Connect securely even through public Wi-Fi, as all data is encrypted and routed through a decentralized server.
- Ad Blocking: Blocks ads on YouTube and other platforms, much like standard ad blockers, but safer (no need device root, or use 3rd party apps).
- Access to Geo-Restricted Content: Easily access content from other countries, such as buying games or booking hotels at lower prices.
- Parental Control: Detailed customization options to block unwanted content for vulnerable web users, including IoTs =)
Software
Device running on AtomOS operating system. It works seamlessly on the Air, with instant switching between dVPN tunnels. All features are identical to those on the Mini version, despite its smaller size and smaller tech stats.
I’ve also noticed some substantial software updates for the device. These aren’t just minor fixes but include significant new features, like the new access control menu that lets you configure tunnel behavior for each connected device individually. For example, you can route smart plugs through Germany, your TV through Turkey, and your gaming console through Argentina.
Additionally, a new “Black Hole” option was introduced, which completely blocks a device from accessing the internet—perfect for those who are concerned about privacy with smart home devices.
Technical Specifications
- Processor: Quad-core Allwinner H313
- RAM: 1GB
- Max Connection Speed: 300 Mbps
- Dimensions: 7.5 x 4.6 x 0.8 cm
- Weight: 32g
- Software: Proprietary Deeper Network software on AtomOS
The device is priced at $169 on the official website.
Testing
First, I took a closer look inside. Removing the plastic cover, which is held in place by clips, reveals a black film with a thermal pad on the processor.
Key components on the PCB include:
- Allwinner H313: Quad-core processor, 64-bit Cortex-A53 architecture with an integrated G31 GPU.
- SEC 340 K4A8G16 5WC BcTD: 1GB RAM from Samsung.
- SEC 322 B041 KLM8G1GETF: 8GB eMMC storage.
- Allwinner AXP313A P8028AA: Power management IC (PMIC).
- TROLINK TL8822CS: Wi-Fi module.
For my testing setup, I brought along a compact GL iNet Beryl Wi-Fi 6 router and a TP-Link M7350 LTE 4G modem. These additional devices aren’t necessary for the Air’s operation.
The Air’s antennas offer moderate range—sufficient for a small two-story house with concrete walls. It doesn’t match a full Wi-Fi 6 router but outperforms an LTE modem. If you need more coverage, consider using a signal booster or a Wi-Fi router in repeater mode.
As with the Mini, I tested the ping in popular games—it was acceptable but not ideal, which is not the Air’s fault but rather due to the weak LTE connection in the rural area. I still managed to play MMO games, with 100-120ms ping. Irs not great for competitive FPS, but quite sufficient for Eve Online or Nightingale.
Despite the plastic casing, the device maintains a stable temperature of around 55-61°C, which is well within the safe range to prevent CPU throttling. Considering that the outside temperature was 36°C at the time, I’m quite confident in its heat dissipation capabilities.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Full-fledged dVPN, virtually undetectable by cybercriminals.
- Compact size—easily fits in your pocket.
- Versatility—can be powered by anything with a Type-C port.
- Full functionality—offers everything the larger models do.
- Updated software allows for per-device tunnel customization.
Cons:
- Lack of a mobile app or widget for quick tunnel management—a simple ON/OFF feature would be nice.
- The 300 Mbps speed limit could be seen as a downside, but this is a portable device meant for mobile or public Wi-Fi use, where such speeds are rarely available.
- A slot for a SIM card or even eSIM would be a welcome addition in future versions.
Conclusion
The Deeper Connect Air is an excellent companion for those concerned about internet security. It offers all the advantages of a VPN with greater comfort, protection, and without monthly fees or the risk of service disruptions.
Its size, weight, speed, and ease of use make the Deeper Connect Air a perfect Tech’s everyday carry (EDC) item. You can literally put it in your shirt pocket and forget it’s there. For those who often use public Wi-Fi, this device is a must-have.
Deeper Network’s dVPN aims to create more privacy-focused and resilient networks by leveraging distributed nodes, which adds a layer of complexity for DPI (Deep Packet Inspection) detection. While this can make it harder to identify compared to traditional centralized VPN services, it is not entirely immune to advanced DPI techniques, especially those employed by nation-state actors or ISPs with sophisticated monitoring capabilities. However, detecting and blocking such traffic is much more challenging, making dVPNs a robust option for those seeking greater freedom online.
In a world where internet regulations and censorship have tightened, the Deeper Connect Air represents a valuable tool for maintaining access to information and services that might otherwise be restricted. It empowers users to reclaim control over their online experience, bypassing artificial barriers and accessing the open internet as it was meant to be—free and uncensored.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission—enough to support my blog’s hosting for three months. In return, you’ll receive a free shipping an additional 5% discount on any order from the official website. My opinions are based on my personal experience, and this is something I use intensively myself and can confidently recommend to anyone.