The Best Air Purifiers for a Healthier Home: A Comprehensive Guide

Dive into our essential guide to the best air purifiers, brimming with key features and crucial factors for you to consider when making your ideal choice. 

• Best Overall: Coway AP-1512HH Air Purifier

• Best For Large Room: Clorox Large Room Air Purifier

• Best For Pet Hair: Winix 5500-2 4-Stage Air Purifier

• Best for Low Maintenance Costs: Blue Pure 211+ Air Purifier

• Best with HEPA: Honeywell HPA300 HEPA Air Purifier

• Best with Touch Screen: Medify MA-112 Air Purifier

• Best Budget: Levoit Core 300 Air Purifier

To assess the Coway AP-1512HH air purifier's ability to purify the air, we conducted a rigorous testing process. We started by filling a large room (500 square feet) with thick smoke, creating a challenging environment for the air purifier to clean. We then turned on the device and allowed it to run for 30 minutes, during which time we monitored the smoke levels in the room using a laser particle counter.

We were impressed to find that after just 30 minutes, the air purifier had reduced the smoke particles in the room by an astounding 99.6%! This is the highest reduction rate we've seen in an air purifier, and it demonstrates the Coway AP-1512HH's exceptional ability to purify the air.

This testing process was designed to simulate real-world scenarios where the air purifier would be used to clean a smoky room, such as a kitchen or living room. By filling the room with heavy smoke and then measuring the reduction in smoke particles, we were able to get an accurate assessment of the air purifier's performance.

Now, the Coway air purifier is certainly impressive, but it's only meant for smaller spaces up to 361 square feet. So if you have a larger space like a large living room or an open-concept kitchen and dining area, then you're going to need an air purifier. It’s also one of the quieter ones we've tested. It's like, really quiet, guys. Like, it's only as loud as light rainfall. You won't even notice it's on, pretty much.

And let's talk about maintenance because that's important too. You don't want to have to worry about constantly cleaning this thing or replacing filters, right? Well, the AP-1512HH has got you covered. It's got a filter life indicator that lets you know when it's time to switch out the filter. It's like having your air quality assistant! And speaking of filters, this thing comes with four different ones that all work together to make sure your air is super clean. It's like having your air-cleaning team!

Pros:

• Provides effective air purification for personal and shared living spaces

• Good value compared to more expensive brands 

• Energy efficient eco/smart mode that automatically adjusts power usage

• Affordable replacement filter costs over time

• Compact size and portable design for various room placements

Cons:

• Doesn't have as many extra features as higher-end competitors

Plus, you only have to replace them every 6 to 12 months, so it's not necessarily a deal breaker. So in all, the Coway AP-1512HH  is the best air purifier that we can recommend to most people.

Our Experience: They work great in any space, even in the kitchen. It automatically detects cooking odors and clears odors from the air, and is also great at collecting pet hair. Some of my friends have very sensitive skin and cough from smoke outdoors, but they still rave about how effective they are indoors.

The Clorox True HEPA Air Purifier was put to the test in a controlled environment to evaluate its effectiveness in removing airborne particles and gases. The testing process involved measuring the air quality in the room before and after running the air purifier, using specialized equipment to detect changes in particle and gas levels. We were run on its lowest and highest settings, and the results were compared to determine the device's performance.

The Clorox True HEPA Air Purifier showed impressive results, with a 75% reduction in PM 2.5 and a 62% reduction in VOCs on its lowest setting, and a 79% reduction in PM 2.5 and a 70% reduction in VOCs on its highest setting. These results suggest that the air purifier is effective in improving indoor air quality and can be a valuable addition to any home or office.

This thing is a beast when it comes to filtering out particles and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) - it's one of the best we've tested, period. And the best part? The filters are super affordable, too - you'll only need to shell out around $100 per year to keep them replaced. Sure, there are other air purifiers out there that can clear particles and VOCs a bit faster, but they'll cost you a pretty penny. If you want a great all-around performer that won't dent your wallet, the Clorox 11010 is the way to go. 

We put the Clorox Large Room True HEPA Air Purifier to the test in a real-world setting to see how well it performs in removing allergens, particles, and bacteria from the air. We set up the purifier in a large room (around 1500 sf based on the manufacturer's announcement) and ran it on its highest setting for several hours.

The results were impressive - the purifier was able to effectively remove contaminants from the air, including odors, leaving the room smelling fresher and cleaner with a stage HEPA filter. We were also pleased to find that the unit ran relatively quietly on its highest setting, with a tolerable noise level that wouldn't be too distracting if you wanted to watch TV.

Pros

• 3 STAGE 360° FILTER system that captures 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns

• Has a built-in ionizer that can help to neutralize airborne viruses and bacteria

• The Clorox operates quietly and has a Whisper Quiet setting

• Can trap pet hair flying in the air

Cons

• The Clorox does not come with a remote or app control

However, if you're looking for a purifier that can run quietly while you sleep, the Clorox has a whisper setting that reduces the noise level to just 30 decibels. This feature makes it an excellent option for bedrooms or other areas where you want to keep the noise level low.

Our Experience: The Clorox 11010 Large Room True HEPA Air Purifier is suitable for people who want to improve the air quality in their homes, especially in large rooms or spaces with high ceilings. It's a great choice for people who suffer from allergies or respiratory problems, as it can help remove allergens and particles from the air.

We put the Winix 5500-2 air purifier to the test by simulating a real-world scenario where pet hair is present. We scattered pet hair in the testing space and observed how well the air purifier could capture it. To our surprise, the Winix 5500-2 seemed to have no trouble sucking in the pet hair, leaving the surrounding air clean and free of any lingering fur.

But the real test was yet to come. We inspected the fine mesh prefilter after running the air purifier for 30 minutes and were impressed to find it filled with pet hair. This demonstrated the air purifier's effectiveness in capturing even the smallest particles, making it an excellent choice for pet owners who struggle with shedding.

In addition to its impressive hair-capturing abilities, the Winnix 5500-2 also performed well in reducing PM 2.5 and VOCs. After running the air purifier for 30 minutes, we found that it had reduced PM 2.5 levels by 80 to 82% and VOC levels by 86 to 88%. These results confirm that the Winix 5500-2 is not only effective at capturing pet hair but also at removing harmful pollutants from the air.

The Winix 5500-2 air purifier is equipped with a comprehensive 4-stage filtration system that is designed to provide maximum protection against various types of airborne pollutants. The filters are designed to work in tandem to capture and remove a wide range of airborne particles, odors, and VOCs, ensuring that the air in your home is clean and healthy to breathe.

• The first stage of filtration is the washable fine mesh prefilter, which is designed to capture large airborne particles such as dust, pollen, and pet hair. This filter is made of a durable mesh material that can be easily washed and reused multiple times. By capturing larger particles, the prefilter helps to prolong the life of the subsequent filters, ensuring that they remain effective for a longer period.

• The second stage of filtration is the washable carbon filter, which is designed to capture VOCs (volatile organic compounds) and odors. The carbon filter is made of activated carbon, which is a highly effective material for removing VOCs and odors from the air. The filter is also washable, allowing you to easily clean it and extend its lifespan.

• The third stage of filtration is the true HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filter, which is designed to capture airborne particles as small as 0.003 microns. This includes dust, pollen, smoke, and other harmful particles that can aggravate respiratory issues such as asthma. The HEPA filter is made of a dense network of fibers that are designed to capture particles with incredible efficiency, making it one of the most effective filters available for air purification.

• The final stage of filtration is the plasma wave technology, which is designed to disperse ions into the air that attach to air pollutants and break them down. This technology uses a high-frequency electrical field to create positive and negative ions, which are then released into the air. These ions attach to airborne pollutants, such as VOCs and bacteria, and break them down into harmless substances. This technology is highly effective at removing airborne pollutants and helps to keep the air in your home clean and healthy.

We also tested the air purifier's ability to detect and respond to changes in air quality. To do this, we used a device that emitted a specific amount of particles into the air and observed how well the air purifier was able to detect and respond to these changes. We were pleased to see that the air purifier was able to quickly adjust its fan speed and filtration system to effectively remove the particles from the air.

Pros

• Easy to set up straight out of the box with a remote control

• Attractive, elegant design that looks good in the home

• Affordably priced compared to some competitors

Cons:

• The auto/smart mode does not work reliably, getting stuck on the lowest fan speed

• Lacks quantitative air quality readings to indicate performance

In addition to testing its air purification capabilities, we also evaluated the air purifier's ease of use and convenience features. We found that the remote control and LED air quality indicator were intuitive and easy to use and that the auto mode and sleep mode worked seamlessly to adjust the fan speed and power consumption based on the room's light levels.

Our Experience: This air purifier works well for eliminating odors, which is useful if you have pets in the home. For pet owners, they need to clean the pre-filter more frequently to remove pet hair and dander. Since they have shedding pets, vacuuming the pre-filter every few days is necessary to keep it working well. A noticeable improvement in air quality has resulted, especially beneficial while sleeping. 

Blue Pure 211+  awesome air purifier is designed for spaces up to 2592 square feet and it does an impressive job of removing airborne pollutants. In our test, we found that it was able to clean 99.7% of all particles in the air inside a 540-square-foot radius in just 12.5 minutes. 

This is because it can move a lot more air per hour through its dual filters, which include a HEPA filtration system and a carbon filter. But wait, if the Blue Pure is marginally better than the Coway and can quickly clean air in larger spaces, then why isn't the top pick? Well, unfortunately, this air purifier does have some downsides that keep it from being our top pick. 

It's a great option, but before you buy, there are a few things you should know.

First of all, this air purifier can be a bit noisy, especially when you crank it up to the highest setting. It's not the loudest air purifier we've tested, but it's still significantly louder than the Coway air purifier. So, if you're looking for a quiet air purifier, this might not be the best option.

Another thing to consider is that the Blue Pure 211 Plus only has two filters: a washable fabric prefilter and a HEPA filter. Now, these filters are great at removing large particles and allergens, but they're not as effective when it comes to removing smaller particles and chemicals. So, if you're looking for an air purifier that can handle a variety of airborne pollutants, this might not be the best choice.

Pros

• Very effective air purification, able to clean the room quickly

• Attractive, contemporary design that looks good aesthetically

• Includes washable exterior filter covers for easy maintenance

Cons

• Produces noticeable noise on the medium and high fan settings

• Priced at the higher end of the range compared to some competitors

So, if you have a large space that needs to be purified quickly, then the Blue Air Blue Pure 211 Plus is worth considering. Just keep in mind that it might be a bit noisy and might not be as effective at removing certain airborne pollutants. But hey, it's still a great air purifier that can help keep your air clean and healthy!

Our Experience: This seems an excellent option for most households looking to freshen up their indoor air quality. As someone with seasonal allergies myself, effective air filtration is a must. And the affordable filters won't break the bank to keep it running optimally long-term.

Honeywell has long been a company that is known for making high-quality heaters, humidifiers, and air purifiers. This model is no different. Even though it is extremely compact, Honeywell HPA300 HEPA Air Purifier still packs quite a punch. Its size at 9.25 by 20 by 22.25 inches with a weight of 17.00 pounds and can cover an area up to 465 square feet which is large enough to cover multiple rooms in most houses.

It is also very quiet even when it is turned up as high as possible it still only puts about 28 decibels which is extremely quiet. This unit comes with three different filters that work together to catch all of the dust particles in the air. 

According to the manufacturer, they can clean 2250 Sq Ft in 1 hour so we all use a 1500 Sq Ft room for testing (standard test times for each product are the same 30 minutes). The results obtained are not surprising in terms of their efficient operation, but without a dedicated pre-filter, the ability to clean the air is lower than other products in the same segment.

However, it has a prefilter to collect larger pieces and a true HEPA filter to trap the finer particles. This results in a very efficient purifying process that is sure to help make your home more hospitable for anyone who suffers from allergies. One of the reasons that this device can handle such a large coverage area while remaining quite compact is because of its fan speeds. It has multiple speeds to choose from, with its top speed being referred to as turbo mode. This turbo mode circulates the air very quickly, which helps to clean a lot more air in a shorter amount of time.

Pros

• Highly recommended by a reputable product review source 

• Attractive sleek black design with convenient side handles

• Adjustable LED light indicators on the top panel

• Impressive air circulation from the top vents

• A helpful quick start guide included

Cons

• Noticeably louder than other models, even on the lowest speed setting

• Speed 2 and above make undesirable noise, especially in a quiet room

• No remote control, but not necessarily needed

This is perfect if you are going to be having guests over zoom and want to quickly purify the air before they arrive. One of the only issues with this device is that the filters are relatively expensive when compared to others on the market. Thankfully, they also last a lot longer than standard filters and the filter check reminder will make sure you only replace them when necessary.

Our Experience: Even after thousands of hours of runtime, the purifiers still achieve extremely good air quality thanks to their complete filter. With filters priced reasonably, the ongoing costs have been low considering the years of use. Overall, the experience has proven the Honeywell purifiers deliver purifying power that lasts, handling some of the most challenging indoor conditions robustly and quietly over an extended period. 

When it comes to whole-house purifiers, you first need to think about how large of an area you want to cover. If you are only looking to work with a smaller space, then you can get a smaller and less powerful model, but if you want to purify your whole house, then you will need a larger model like this one.

The Metify MA-112 has an enormous coverage area of 2400 square feet, which should be more than enough for most homes. It can accomplish this amazing feat thanks to its triple filtration system. While many other units only have one or two different filter stages, this unit comes with three. These include a prefilter for larger particles, a HEPA filter for fine particles, and an activated carbon filter for bacteria.

These three layers of filtration all work together efficiently to effectively clean the air within the coverage area. It should come as no surprise that this unit is ETL and Energy Star certified. This unit comes at 28 by 16 by 15 inches in size and weighs 32 pounds.

The four fan speeds run at 110 volts at a maximum noise level of 70 decibels. It's one of the easiest air purifiers to set up as well. Thanks to its easy-to-read and very simple-to-use touchscreen, you will be able to get this model up and running very quickly without too much trouble. 

Pros

• Provides high-level air purification performance as evidenced by removing viruses, asbestos, and other harmful particles.

• It is well-constructed using quality materials that should last for years with proper care.

• Intuitive and easy to operate even for those not technically inclined.

Cons

• Its price is high but lasts for a long time

The only thing that you need to keep in mind with this purifier is that even though the filters work very well together, the cost of replacing them will add up very quickly. This makes this one of the more expensive purifiers to operate but is well worth it to clean such a large amount of air effectively.

Our Experience: With so much experience across multiple brands, they have found Medify's capacity unparalleled at maintaining the cleanest air possible no matter the number of occupants or common sources of indoor air pollution present.  For the most discerning customers who will accept nothing less than the best high-efficiency protection available, Medify has proven itself the highest caliber lifetime investment.

And last but not least is our pick for the best budget air purifier for small spaces and that's going to be the Levoit Core 300. Now, not everyone can afford to spend a significant amount of money on an air purifier, and that's perfectly understandable.

But just because you're on a budget doesn't mean that you have to skimp on quality. And that's where this budget air purifier comes in. For under $100, you get a very capable air purifier that can quickly clean the air in a small space of up to 200 square feet. Now that's pretty impressive considering its compact size of only 8 by 8 inches, and it's also very light at just 7 pounds, so you'll have no trouble moving it from room to room. 

Of course, just like our other picks, we've subjected this budget air purifier to extensive testing and we found that it does a really good job of cleaning the air in a small room. The one we tested was a 135-square-foot room, and after running it on high for 30 minutes, it removed more than 92% of all the particles in the air with the 3-in-1 filter. And while it's much lower compared to our other top picks, that's still helpful and would be enough for most people looking to improve the air quality inside their homes. 

Of course, as a budget pick, this purifier does come with several downsides that you'll need to consider. For one thing, it's not energy efficient as it consumes about the same power as the other air purifiers on this list, even though it's only a fraction of the size. So basically, the Levoit Core 300 is the best air purifier that we can recommend to people on a budget. 

Pros:

• TRUE HEPA filter captures 99.97% of particles down to 0.3 microns like pollen, dust, mold spores, and bacteria.

• Includes an activated carbon filter that removes odors and gases.

• Three cleaning speed levels for customized airflow.

• Night light function with adjustable brightness.

• The affordable price point for its purification abilities.

Cons:

• Only suited for smaller rooms due to the lower CADR rating of 71 CFM

If you're looking for a quality air purifier that will help you improve the air quality in your home while spending as little money as possible, then this would be the one to get.

Our Experience: If you're looking for a high-quality air purifier that won't break the bank, the LEVOIT Air Purifier Core 300 is the best budget choice. Plus, it's affordable and provides excellent value for the price, making it the best budget choice for those who want a high-quality air purifier without breaking the bank.

There are some detailed factors may you don't know when seeing the table:

• Coverage Area (sq. ft.): The area that the air purifier can effectively clean in square feet.
• CADR (CFM): The Clean Air Delivery Rate measures the air purifier's ability to remove pollutants from the air. A higher CADR means the air purifier can clean the air more effectively.
• Filters: The number and type of filters used by the air purifier.
• Noise Level (dB): The noise level of the air purifier in decibels. A lower number means the air purifier is quieter.
• Energy Consumption (W): The amount of energy the air purifier uses in watts. A lower number means the air purifier is more energy-efficient.

The effectiveness of air purifiers is a topic of much debate, but the answer is a resounding yes. After years of testing and using various air purifiers, it has been proven that they do indeed work. The first signs of improvement in air quality can be noticed within a few days of use, and after 1-2 weeks, the pre-filter will show visible dust deposits. This is a clear indication that the air purifier is doing its job and removing pollutants from the air.

As testers at RetailCoupon, my team and I take a comprehensive approach to evaluating air purifiers. We use a variety of methods to assess the quality of each device, intending to provide potential customers with the most detailed and accurate information possible.

First, we conduct performance tests on each air purifier using a laser particle meter. This allows us to measure the device's effectiveness in removing airborne particles, which is an essential aspect of its performance. We also conduct noise tests on each speed setting to ensure that the device operates quietly and won't disrupt your daily routines.

In addition to performance and noise tests, we also assess the energy consumption of each air purifier. This is an important factor to consider, as it can impact the device's overall efficiency and cost-effectiveness. We use a specialized meter to measure the device's power consumption and evaluate its eco-friendliness.

To get a more realistic picture of each air purifier's performance, we also conduct real-life tests under normal usage conditions. We use the device for an extended period, typically during allergy season or while cooking, to see how well it performs in real-world scenarios. This helps us evaluate the device's effectiveness in removing allergens, odors, and other airborne pollutants.

Finally, we have developed a unique smoke test that allows us to evaluate the air purifier's ability to clean the air quickly and effectively. This test gives us a clear picture of how fast the device can remove smoke and other airborne pollutants, which is essential for maintaining a healthy and safe indoor environment.

Our testing process is designed to provide potential customers with a comprehensive understanding of each air purifier's strengths and weaknesses. By considering multiple factors, including performance, noise, energy consumption, real-life usage, and smoke testing, we can help you make an informed decision when choosing an air purifier for your home or office.

When it comes to choosing the right air purifier, there are several key factors to consider to ensure you get the best device for your needs. 

Filtration Technology

The first and most important thing to look out for is the filtration technology used by the device. True HEPA filters are the most efficient and effective, able to remove 99.97% of airborne particles that are 0.3 microns or larger. However, there are also other filter types available, such as HEPA-type and similar filters, which are less efficient than true HEPA filters. It's essential to distinguish between these different types of filters when making your decision.

CADR (Clean Air Delivery Rate)

In addition to filtration technology, room coverage is also a crucial factor to consider. Make sure to choose an air purifier that is designed for a room of your size, as the device's performance may be impacted if it's not suitable for the space. Check the Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) to determine how quickly the air purifier can clean the air in the room. A higher CADR means the device can clean the air faster.

Smart Feature

Other features to consider include smart apps, air quality sensors, auto modes, and more. While these features don't directly impact the filtration quality, they can still affect the device's efficiency and performance. For example, a smart air purifier can be set up to automatically adjust its settings based on the air quality in the room, ensuring that the air is always clean and healthy to breathe.

Our list of the best air purifiers we've had the opportunity to test so far aims to provide a comprehensive guide for individuals looking to improve the air quality in their homes or offices. By comparing the capacity, volume, energy consumption, and reliability of various air purifiers, we hope to help you make an informed decision and find the best air purifier for your specific needs. Whether you're looking for a device that can handle large spaces or one that operates quietly, our top picks - the Coway AP-1512HH, Levoit Core 300, and Winix 5500-2 - offer a range of features and benefits that make them excellent choices. Remember, the best air purifier for you will depend on your unique circumstances, so be sure to consider your needs and preferences carefully. With the right air purifier, you can breathe easily and enjoy the benefits of clean, healthy air.

What features should I look for?

When selecting an air purifier, there are several important features to consider. One of the top things to look for is a true HEPA filter rated to capture at least 99.97% of fine particles. An activated carbon filter that removes gases and odors is also beneficial. Make sure to evaluate the CADR or clean air delivery rate, as it indicates how fast the unit can clean the air. Sensors that detect pollution levels and adjust speeds automatically are useful too. Pre-filters that trap larger particles extending the lifespan of main filters are a nice plus. Opt for a model with timer functions and connectivity for convenience.

What size purifier do I need?

The appropriate size air purifier depends on the room. For spaces up to 150 square feet, a purifier with a CADR between 110-149 is suitable. Rooms measuring 150-300 square feet do well with a CADR rating of 250-400. If cleaning a large open concept area over 300 square feet, you'll want one with a higher CADR of over 400-500 for best effectiveness. Be sure to consider clearances around the unit too.

What brands are best?

Top-rated brands like Blueair, Molekule, Coway, Honeywell, and IQAir consistently perform well in side-by-side lab tests and user reviews. Independent analyses show they remove particles efficiently. Dysons and others offer premium features and styles as well. Choosing from a trusted brand provides quality and peace of mind.

How often do filters need changing?

True HEPA filters maintain performance for around 6-12 months with typical use before replacing. Activated carbon filters need swapping every 3-6 months. Washing any pre-filters monthly keeps them working properly. Regular maintenance like this keeps the air purifier running optimally.