As the weather warms up and you head outside to enjoy the great outdoors, one thing is almost guaranteed – mosquitoes will be out to feast as well. These pesky insects can quickly turn a fun camping trip or backyard barbecue into an annoying, itchy nightmare.
Thankfully, there are effective mosquito repellent options to help keep the bugs away so you can focus on having fun. Two popular portable mosquito repellents are the Thermacell Enhanced and Legacy devices.
But what are the key differences between these two models? Which one is better for different uses? Read on for a detailed comparison of the Thermacell Enhanced Vs. Legacy mosquito repellents.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Thermacell Enhanced | Thermacell Legacy |
| Size | 5.25” diameter x 7.75” high | 9” diameter x 3.5” high |
| Weight | 1.25 lbs with fuel cartridge | 1.75 lbs with fuel cartridge |
| Run Time | 12 hours per butane cartridge | 4 hours per butane cartridge |
| Coverage Area | 15 ft radius, maintains over time | 15 ft radius, shrinks to 10 ft over time |
| Fuel Cartridges | Uses proprietary high capacity butane cartridges | Uses standard butane cartridges |
| Mat/Repellent | Allethrin infused mat lasts 40 hours | Separate allethrin cartridge and mat lasts 4 hours |
| Temperature Range | 32°F to 95°F | 50°F to 95°F |
| Price | $34.99 MSRP | $24.99 MSRP |
How Thermacell Technology Works
Both the Thermacell Enhanced and Legacy utilize the same underlying mosquito repellent technology. They work by slowly heating a chemical called allethrin that is inserted into a mat or cartridge in the device. Allethrin is a synthetic version of a natural mosquito repellent found in chrysanthemum flowers.
As it heats up, allethrin turns into a vapor that is odorless to humans but keeps mosquitoes from being able to detect humans. This creates a 15-foot protective zone around the Thermacell device where mosquitoes will not go.
It’s an effective and chemical-free way to repel mosquitoes without spraying yourself with DEET or other harsh repellents.
Key Differences Between The Models
While the Enhanced and Legacy both leverage Thermacell’s allethrin mosquito repellent technology, there are some notable differences between the two models:
Size/Portability: The Enhanced model is more compact and lightweight than the Legacy. It measures 5.25” diameter x 7.75” high and weighs 1.25 lbs with a fuel cartridge inserted. The Legacy is bulkier at 9” diameter x 3.5” high and weighs 1.75 lbs with fuel cartridge.
Run Time: The Enhanced can run for 12 hours on a single butane cartridge, while the Legacy runs for just 4 hours per cartridge.
Coverage Area: Both models provide mosquito protection in a 15-foot radius when new. But the Enhanced maintains its coverage better over time, still protecting within 15 feet after multiple hours of use. The Legacy’s coverage area shrinks to just 10 feet after a few hours of run time.
Butane Cartridges: The Enhanced uses a specially designed higher capacity butane cartridge that cannot be used in the Legacy model. The Legacy uses a smaller standard butane cartridge.
Mat/Repellent: The Enhanced includes a mat with allethrin already infused, so you simply insert it and turn on the device. The Legacy requires inserting a separate allethrin cartridge into the mat before use. The Enhanced mat provides 40 hours of protection, while the Legacy mat and cartridge set lasts 4 hours.
Temperature Range: The Enhanced can be used in temperatures ranging from 32°F to 95°F. The Legacy has a more limited optimal temperature range of 50°F to 95°F for peak effectiveness.
Price: The Enhanced has a higher MSRP of $34.99, while the Legacy retails for $24.99. But prices vary by retailer.
Now that we’ve compared the key specs, let’s take a closer look at the advantages and disadvantages of each model.
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Thermacell Enhanced Pros And Cons
Pros:
- Longer run time per fuel cartridge (12 hours)
- Maintains full 15 ft coverage for hours
- More compact and portable
- Works in colder temperatures down to 32°F
- Includes repellent mat infused with allethrin
- Mat provides 40 hours of protection
- No assembly required
Cons:
- Higher price point
- Butane cartridges not interchangeable with Legacy
- Limited wind resistance
Best Uses: Camping, hiking, fishing, hunting, patios, decks, backyards, outdoor parties/events
The Enhanced is the superior Thermacell model in terms of effectiveness, run time, and ease of use. It’s the best choice for longer outdoor activities like camping or fishing where you need all-day mosquito protection. The long-lasting mat, extended run time per cartridge, and ability to work in colder temps make it ideal for everything from your backyard patio to remote campsites.
It’s also convenient for travel since it’s lightweight and compact. The only downside is you have to use the proprietary fuel cartridges.
Thermacell Legacy Pros And Cons
Pros:
- Lower price point
- Uses standard butane cartridges
- Classic, proven design
Cons:
- Shorter 4 hour run time per cartridge
- Mosquito protection area shrinks over time
- Bulkier and heavier than Enhanced
- Doesn’t work as well in cold temps
- Requires assembly of mat and repellent
Best Uses: Backyards, patios, camping near car, fishing on shore, outdoor events lasting just a few hours
The Legacy remains a solid mosquito repelling option, especially if you want to save money upfront. It’s best for shorter activities closer to home where you can easily replace cartridges.
Keep an extra fuel cartridge on hand for longer days. It struggles more than the Enhanced model in cold weather and for all-day protection. Go for the Legacy if budget is your main concern and you don’t need extended run times.
Also Read: Comparison Between No Natz And No Mosquitoz.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
These numbers refer to the amount of time the repellent mat will provide protection:
Thermacell 55 – Provides 55 hours of mosquito protection
Thermacell 90 – Provides 90 hours of mosquito protection
So the higher the number, the longer the mat will last before needing replacement. Both mats contain allethrin, just in different concentrations.
Thermacell devices are an effective, chemical-free way to repel mosquitoes without sprays or wearable repellents. Customers consistently rate both the Enhanced and Legacy 4+ out of 5 stars, so yes, they are absolutely worth the investment for mosquito protection.
The Enhanced model provides better value for money given its superior run time, coverage, and ease of use. But the Legacy still works well for shorter durations.
Thermacell mats, cartridges, and butane cartridges are designed specifically for each model.
Enhanced mats only work with the Enhanced
Legacy mats and repellent cartridges only work with the Legacy
Enhanced butane cartridges are higher capacity and will not work in the Legacy
So for best performance, always use the refills designed for your specific Thermacell model. Never try to interchange parts between the Enhanced and Legacy.
The Thermacell Enhanced E-series mosquito repellent lasts for 12 hours on one 16.4g butane fuel cartridge. Its allethrin mat provides 40 hours of continuous mosquito protection before needing replacement.
So together, the Enhanced system can provide long-lasting mosquito repellency for multiple camping trips or weeks of backyard enjoyment before requiring any refills.
Also Read: Choose Between Mosquito Shield And Mosquito Squad.
The Bottom Line
When choosing between the Thermacell Enhanced and Thermacell Legacy models, consider your budget, usage needs, and desire for convenience. The Enhanced costs more upfront but provides better performance and ease of use for all-day mosquito protection.
The Legacy is more affordable for shorter term usage closer to home. Both are great options for repelling mosquitoes without harsh chemicals. With up to a 15-foot radius of protection, you can finally take back your outdoor living space from mosquitoes with Thermacell.