First, we live in Arizona which is a desert with very low humidity. Evaporative coolers work best in these environments and not in high humidity places. But even so, this has helped cool the back bedroom down making it not only livable in the heat but actually cool. When the monsoon season starts and the humidity starts to rise, I expect it not to work as well. We have 30% humidity or less and it will take 80 degree temps down to the low 60's. I recommend using filtered water to keep unpleasant smells from minerals in the water to a minimum. Also, let it run dry with the fan on to dry the filter out about once a week to help with this issue as well. This is normal maintenance for an evaporative cooler.
Works for me. Decreases temperature around my place by about 10 degrees. Also can be used as a night lamp :) Definitely not suitable for those who'd like to cool entire room!
I use distilled water and it provides cold air on my face. It does have a light bar when turned on but I covered it with construction paper so I could sleep.
This machine is awesome! We like that it can be charged with a back up battery and can be controlled with a smart phone. Even the larger version is a very convenient size. We definitely felt a difference in temperature.