The 6 Best Air Purifiers – Must Read Before Buying! (2024)

Air purifiers are simple, widely available devices that are increasingly seen in homes. However, the market is flooded with various models equipped with different features and specifications, making it challenging to choose the best one for your needs.

Such devices help reduce airborne allergens, mold spores, pet odors, and dust. More powerful models even neutralize cooking smells, wildfire smoke, cigarette smoke, and VOCs.

Based on our in-house testing of over 70 different air purifiers, I can confidently say that they are excellent at fighting air pollutants, and you can really feel the difference in air quality after just a few minutes of use. 

However, be aware of marketing manipulations by brands that could easily distract you from selecting the best air purifier for your needs.

In this comprehensive guide, you will find the top six models among all we tested. Each model improves air quality, but not every model is suitable for every situation. Keep reading to find out which one suits you best.

Top 6 Air Purifiers

Our testing methodology includes several steps for evaluating and rating air purifiers. These steps include design and build quality, features, filtration technology, Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR), noise level, operating costs, performance, and objective testing in real-life situations.

Every device featured on Air Purifier First is tested using the same procedure, enhancing the accuracy of our evaluations and our rating system, especially when comparing different models.

Please keep in mind that these are the best air purifiers we have tested. If a device that you believe should be on this list isn’t included, it could be for one of two reasons:

1. We haven’t yet tested it.
2. It has been tested but, unfortunately, didn’t meet the criteria for showing on the list.

Please don’t hesitate to leave a comment in the article section below if you have any questions or suggestions.

Levoit Vital 200S – Best Overall & Best For Pets

Levoit has expanded its Vital series with two excellent air purifiers, which I tested immediately after their release, and must say that Levoit did an extraordinary job with these models.

The Levoit Vital 200S features an innovative pre-filter, plenty of advanced options, and a rectangular design. It uses a three-stage filtration technology consisting of a washable pre-filter, a primary filter, and an activated carbon filter.

In the performance tests, it showed outstanding results, especially in a 320 sq. ft. (30 m²) room, where it improved air quality by about 96%. In a second test in a 560 sq. ft. (52 m²) room, it also performed well, improving air quality by about 92%. The Vital 200S operated at maximum speed during both 60-minute tests.

Given that the Levoit Vital 200S is intended for rooms up to 380 sq. ft. (35 m²), these results are fantastic and just a confirmation of the high-quality filters it uses. It also performed well in neutralizing bad odors—not as effectively as the Austin Air, but still enough for some light odors.

This model reminds me a lot of the Winix 5500-2, mostly because of the very similar pre-filter. I must say that I’m a big fan of rectangular air purifiers, as they have been shown to be better performers than cylindrical ones. This is also one of the reasons it outperformed the Levoit Core 400S, which was declared as one of the best until we tested the Vital 200S.

The Vital 200S uses a well-optimized 50W motor and will cost you no more than $4.2 monthly if used at maximum speed 24 hours a day. What I also like is that it has five different fan speeds and produces only 41 dBA at the lowest and about 62.2 dBA at the maximum speed.

Overall, the Levoit Vital 200S is the best air purifier for most people; it’s affordable, easy to maintain, user-friendly, feature-rich, and performs exceptionally well, making it our top recommendation, especially for capturing airborne dust, pollen, allergens, and pet hair.

Levoit Core 600S – Best For Large Rooms

The second model on the list also comes from Levoit. This time, it’s the Core series, which is Levoit’s most popular and best-selling series.

If you are looking for an air purifier for large rooms, then the Levoit Core 600S is the best option you can get. It covers rooms of 635 sq. ft. (59 m²), with an ACH (air changes per hour) of 4.8. It uses a cylindrical filter located inside the bottom part of the device. The filtration layers include a pre-filter, a main filter, and an activated carbon filter.

The Levoit Core 600S is CARB-certified, doesn’t produce ozone, and is 100% safe to use. In the performance tests, it achieved outstanding results, even in a room slightly larger than the recommended dimensions.

In a 560 sq. ft. (52 m²) room, it improved the air quality by about 96%, while in a 730 sq. ft. (68 m²) room, it improved the air quality by about 93%. In both tests, it worked at maximum speed for 60 minutes.

What could be improved on the Levoit Core 600S is its noise production. It produces 43.9 dBA at the lowest speed and 68.5 dBA at the maximum speed. While this is understandable considering the large airflow, I would prefer it to produce lower noise, especially at maximum speed.

What’s also interesting about this model is that it uses a motor of only 49W, which is almost the same as the previously mentioned Vital 200S model, yet the Core 600S covers twice the room size of the Vital 200S. It works with the VeSync app and has plenty of features.

All in all, the Levoit Core 600S stands out as an excellent choice for large rooms, especially for dealing with airborne dust particles, but keep in mind that it’s slightly louder, especially at maximum speed.

Austin Air HealthMate Jr. – Best For Secondhand Smoke and VOCs

If you are looking for an air purifier that can effectively clean your home of secondhand smoke, cigarette smoke, VOCs, or even cooking smells, Austin Air air purifiers are among the best options available.

What makes Austin Air air purifiers so special is the large amount of carbon in their filters. I have tested the Austin Air HealthMate Jr., which is the smallest version available but still contains 6.5 lbs (3 kg) of carbon—much more than other air purifiers on our list.

However, Austin Air air purifiers are very expensive, and not every household has a budget for such a device. That’s why I picked the HealthMate Jr. as the best option for bad odors: it’s the most affordable model, has enough carbon inside, and does a great job cleaning bad odors.

In testing, this air purifier showed outstanding performance in removing gases, bad odors, and fumes. However, it lacks the capability to neutralize airborne particles effectively. In a 194 sq. ft. (18 m²) room, it improved the air quality by about 86% in 60 minutes at maximum speed, which is much lower than the airborne particle reduction achieved by the Levoit Vital 200S, our top choice. However, keep in mind that the Austin Air is unbeatable in neutralizing bad odors.

The Austin Air HealthMate Je. covers rooms of up to 185 sq. ft. (17 m²), uses a four-stage filtration system, and its filters last up to 5 years—the longest filter life on the market.

I also like its well-optimized motor of just 28W, which produces only 40.6 dBA at the lowest speed and 54.7 dBA at the max speed.

Frankly, the Austin Air HealthMate Jr. is an old-fashioned air purifier with an expensive price tag. It isn’t as effective at dealing with airborne particles but is definitely the best option for handling cigarette smoke, VOCs, cooking smells, and other bad odors.

However, for airborne dust, allergens, pollen, and similar household particles, I would recommend considering other models, such as the Levoit Vital 200S or the Winix 5500-2, which is next on our list.

Winix 5500-2 – Best Value and Outstanding Performance

The Winix 5500-2 has been featured in almost every buying guide on Air Purifier First in the past few years. However, with many new air purifiers entering the market each month, and after testing many of these new models, things have changed a bit.

It’s still one of the best options available, but I strongly believe there are better choices and that Winix could improve upon this model.

This air purifier covers rooms of up to 360 sq. ft. (33 m²) and uses a four-stage filtration technology consisting of a washable pre-filter, a washable activated carbon filter, a True HEPA filter, and PlasmaWave technology. PlasmaWave acts as an ionizer that could potentially produce ozone as a byproduct, which is why I always recommend turning this feature off when using your Winix.

The 5500-2 comes with plenty of advanced options, such as an air quality sensor (that detects only odors), air quality indicator, auto mode, remote control, and light sensor. However, it lacks smart features, such as a smart app option. I’m happy to see that Winix has implemented a smart app in some of their newer devices.

In performance tests, the Winix 5500-2 made outstanding results. In a 320 sq. ft. (30 m²) room, it improved air quality by an incredible 96% in just 60 minutes while operating at maximum speed. However, I’m not entirely pleased with its 70W motor, which could be much better optimized for power-to-CADR ratio.

While it is very quiet at lower speeds, it becomes noticeably louder at maximum speed, producing 66.4 dBA, which is loud but still quieter than the Levoit Core 600S at its maximum speed.

Overall, if you can overlook an outdated design, then the Winix 5500-2 is an excellent air purifier to consider. It showed outstanding performance in dealing with airborne particles, is quite effective against bad odors, cigarette smoke, and cooking smells, and comes at an attractive price. I can say that the Winix 5500-2 offers great value for the money!

Coway AP-1512HH – Best For Allergies

Just like the previously mentioned Winix 5500-2, the Coway AP-1512HH is one of the best air purifiers I have ever tested. It has consistently appeared on many lists of the best air purifiers here at Air Purifier First.

This air purifier covers rooms of up to 361 sq. ft. (33 m²) and offers plenty of advanced options, such as an air quality sensor, air quality indicator, auto mode, and ECO mode, but lacks smart features.

The Coway AP-1512HH uses a four-stage filtration technology consisting of a washable pre-filter, a fibrous carbon filter, a True HEPA filter, and an optional Ionizer. It’s CARB-certified, which means it’s safe to use. It produces ozone as a byproduct, but only when the ionizer feature is activated.

In tests performed in a 320 sq. ft. (30 m²) room, it produced great results, improving the air quality by about 96% in just 60 minutes while working at maximum speed throughout.

One downside is its 77W motor, which makes its power-to-CADR ratio less than ideal. However, it is quite quiet at the lowest speed, producing only 41.4 dBA, while at maximum speed, it produces 63.5 dBA.

Overall, the Coway AP-1512HH is a reliable air purifier that has shown outstanding performance in dealing with airborne allergens, pollen, and dust, although it’s less effective at neutralizing bad odors. Given its affordable price, the Coway AP-1512HH is certainly worth considering option.

Levoit Vital 100S – Best For Small Rooms

We wanted to complete the list with a device that’s small, not too expensive, but offers great performance and value for the money. One such device is the Levoit Vital 100S.

This small air purifier covers rooms up to 219 sq. ft. (20 m²), with an ACH of 4.8. It’s often compared to the popular Levoit Core 300S, which is also a great air purifier, but the Vital 100S offers a bit more.

It uses a three-stage filtration technology consisting of a washable pre-filter, a main filter, and an activated carbon filter. The Vital 100S is CARB-certified, doesn’t produce ozone, and is 100% safe to use.

This compact air purifier has plenty of smart features such as an air quality sensor, air quality indicator, auto mode, and the VeSync app. It’s a perfect fit for a small bedroom, kids’ room, office, or any other small space.

In performance tests, it achieved outstanding results. In a 194 sq. ft. (18 m²) room, this air purifier improved the air quality by about 95%, while in a 320 sq. ft. room (30 m²), it improved the air quality by about 94%. In both tests, it worked at maximum speed for 60 minutes continuously. The Vital 100S also performed quite well in neutralizing bad odors.

One area that could be improved is the noise level, especially at maximum speed, where it produces a sound of 65.4 dBA. However, at the lowest speed, it produces only 40.5 dBA, making it one of the quietest air purifiers tested.

It uses a motor of just 35W, meaning it won’t cost you too much to operate.

Overall, the Levoit Vital 100S is a compact, well-performing air purifier that’s easy and affordable to maintain and comes with plenty of smart features.

Research of The Best Air Purifiers

Selecting an air purifier for a list requires a detailed analysis, using the device, performing all kinds of tests, assessing the brand’s reliability, the availability of replacement filters, and so on. We research and select the air purifiers to be tested based on the state of the market. Ideally, we would be able to review all the air purifiers currently available on the market. Still, we select devices based on various parameters since this is not the case.

We often listen to suggestions from readers and viewers on the YT channel for air purifier reviews. So don’t hesitate to give your suggestions and comments, either on the YT videos or on the comments on the website.

How do we Test Air Purifiers?

Performance tests – I measure the performance of each device using a laser dust particle counter. The tool used is a Temtop particle counter, from which I read PM2.5, PM10, particulate, and AQI ratings and use this to compare how each air purifier performs in the tests. I place each air purifier in a room of specific dimensions, in front of which, of course, I measure the current air quality. After 60 minutes of operation at maximum speed, I measure the air quality in the room again and calculate by how much the air quality has improved.

Noise tests – this is an unavoidable test that I carry out on all devices. Basically, I test the loudness of the device at each speed separately and measure it with a unique tool. With its objective commentary on the motor’s performance, the noise test influences the assessment of the device’s noise. I say motor performance because it sometimes happens that an air purifier produces a moderate volume on a noise test, but the motor is so strange, it bursts or stutters, that it is impossible to listen to it, even though the volume is low.

Power consumption – I use a unique tool to measure the power consumption for each speed and then calculate and predict the monthly power consumption.

Smoke test – this is a unique test that sets Air Purifier First apart from other similar review sites. Basically, we put the air purifier in a glass box, which we then fill with smoke, turn the machine on and measure how long it takes the device to remove all the smoke from the box.

Price – price/quality ratio is perhaps one of the most important parameters, especially considering that many expensive air purifiers on the market are basically not of good quality and not worth the money. There are also many cheap air purifiers on the market that use low-quality filters that are also not worth it.

Operating costs – this is basically a conclusion we draw based on the price of replacement filters, the lifetime of replacement filters, and electricity consumption. This test determines whether the air purifier is suitable for maintenance annually.

Real-life conditions – To gather the best possible information and test air purifiers more accurately, I have sought help from some colleagues. So my brother helps me test air purifiers in the middle of pollen season, mainly because he is allergic to pollen. His comment means a lot to me; it is very thorough. Believe me, he feels the difference in air purifiers very well, and some devices help him a lot, some almost nothing.

Of course, there are tests in the kitchen, especially when cooking fish or other food in oil. I cannot imagine not using an air purifier in such situations. Of course, in addition to these real tests, I also measure tests with specialized tools.

In general, all the tests I do are objective. I am not biased toward any product or brand, which confirms why so many users trust the tests on Air Purifier First.

Types of Filters Found Inside Air Purifiers

Recently, there has been more and more innovation regarding air purifiers. Companies are trying to attract new users with various innovations, improve filtration quality, and position themselves as high as possible amongst very strong competition.

To be honest, I rely most on air purifiers that use True HEPA filters, so all the air purifiers on the list are equipped with True HEPA filters, except Blueair, which uses their innovative particulate filter, which has shown excellent performance, even better than some HEPA filters. The performance of HEPA filters is reflected in the ranking, as seen in the table below.

In addition to the HEPA filters, most air purifiers have a pre-filter, which is very useful and basically serves to prevent any large particles of dust, hair, and the like from entering the primary filter (in most cases HEPA) and thus prolonging its life.

You will also find carbon filters in most air purifiers that are responsible for neutralizing VOCs. The EPA has a list of common sources of VOCs that can be found in a household that will be neutralized by an air purifier with a carbon filter:

• Paints, paint strippers, and other solvents
• Wood preservatives
• Aerosol sprays
• Cleaners and disinfectants
• Moth repellents and air fresheners
• Stored fuels and automotive products
• Hobby accessories
• Dry-cleaned clothing
• Pesticides
• Building materials and equipment
• Office equipment such as copiers and printers, correction fluids, and carbonless copy paper
• Graphics and craft materials, including adhesives and glues, permanent markers, and photographic solutions.

In addition to standard filtration methods, some air purifiers use ionizers. When the ionizer is switched on, a voltage is applied to a series of built-in needles, which generate electrons discharged into the air. When these electrons attach to air molecules, ions are formed. These negative ions are dispersed into the room. They bind to dust, pollen, cigarette smoke, and pet dander to form more massive particles more easily trapped by the air purifier. These particles can also be dropped on the floor to be vacuumed.

Finally, UV-C lights also serve the purpose of filtration and kill bacteria and viruses very effectively.

The most important thing is to ensure that every air purifier has at least a pre-filter, a True HEPA filter, and an activated carbon filter.

How Important is the Room Coverage?

To decide on any type of filtration, the next step you need to pay attention to is the device’s airflow. This is an essential step because if you buy a weak air purifier that cannot cover the room in which you intend to use it, it will not be effective enough.

When buying air purifiers, it is important to pay attention to the ACH, which stands for Air Changes Per Hour, which translated means that if the coverage of a room with an air purifier is 200 sq. ft. and if the ACH in that room for the same device is 2 ACH, then that device will clean the air 2 times per hour in a room of 200 sq. ft.

If you purchase an air purifier and determine the room’s size, always make sure that the ACH is at least 2, and ideally 4.8, which is the industry standard, and any air purifier that is AHAM verified is certified to this standard.

I would advise everyone to pay attention to the accuracy of the data, as many manufacturers claim that the air purifier is best for an “xxx” sq. ft. size room but do not specify how much ACH is in that room. In the reviews I do on the Air Purifier First website, I always list the room size where the air purifier has an ACH of 4.8 as the recommended room.

Can an Air Purifier Help With Wildfire Smoke?

Of course, it can. This is especially known to many air purifier users who live in California, where fires are a big problem, and from where many people have contacted me, both on YT and by email, for advice on which air purifier to choose for wildfire smoke.

The best air purifier for fighting wildfire smoke is the Austin Air HealthMate Jr., which pellet-based activated carbon filter is exceptionally high in quality and effective in fighting smoke.

What About Air Purifiers With Washable Filters?

The thing about air purifiers with washable filters is that you don’t have to think about when you need to buy a replacement filter, whether replacement filters will be available, etc. Personally, I am happier with HEPA filters than with washable filters or similar filters that are currently available on the market.

Tried a few and made a list of the best air purifiers with washable filters. Some extremely high-quality machines on this list perform very well, as do air purifiers with HEPA filters.

Interestingly, all the air purifiers with washable filters I have tested so far are that, in addition to the main washable filter, they also have a predominantly carbon filter, which is not washable. This means that these air purifiers do not have 100% washable filters. So they are running away from the idea of a maintenance-free air purifier.

Why Should You Trust Us?

In 2016, I started the Air Purifier First project. Between then and now, I have tried many different air purifiers. Every year I take the tests to a higher level, inserting as much content as possible, tests and comparisons, and other content that can benefit potential customers.

The multitude of positive comments on the purchase recommendations proves that Air Purifier First’s recommendations are reliable and trustworthy. Many of the positive comments are publicly available on the YouTube platform and in the comments section of the website.

Furthermore, I am not biased by any of the producers, myself, or the assistants involved in the project. For the rest of you, if you haven’t already, I suggest you read in detail how we test air purifiers, why our tests are unique, and why our reviews are highly appreciated.

How to Get the Most Out of Your Air Purifier?

When it comes to air purifier tips, I recommend a few.

Find the Perfect Location

Under no circumstances should you position the air purifier to block the airflow or place it in places where there is not enough air. In fact, it would be best to follow the above tips for placing the air purifier in different locations around the room until you decide which location suits you best.

Choose the Speed

Basically, air purifiers are most effective at maximum speed. Still, the problem is that they are usually too loud at maximum speed. It is very difficult to stay in a room where the air purifier runs at its strongest setting. It is, therefore, best to keep the air purifier at maximum speed for the first 15 minutes of use and then switch to another fan speed that is not too loud. This way, you’ll clean the air quality initially and keep it clean later by moving it to a lower speed.

Adjust the Air Quality Sensor 

Adjust the sensitivity of the air quality sensor to make the air purifier work more efficiently. In this list, you can adjust the sensor’s sensitivity with the Coway AP-1512HH, Levoit Vital 200S, Core 600S, and Vital 100S.

Use the Smart App

Finally, I advise you to fully program the air purification mode via the Smart App if there is such an option. It is good to program to switch the device on or off if the air quality is above or below a set air quality limit. Extinguishing at night, switching to a higher speed if the air quality drops significantly, etc. All of this will allow for greater efficiency while at the same time reducing electricity consumption.

What About Other Good Air Purifiers on the Market?

In addition to the 6 best air purifiers, there are many other devices on the market that I would recommend buying.

Often, users are looking for air purifiers for specific situations, which means that sometimes it is possible that another air purifier not on this list may be better for a particular situation.

For this reason, I have compiled a list of the best air purifiers for specific situations that I believe will benefit many users.

• Best Air Purifiers For the Basement
• Best Air Purifiers for Large Rooms
• Best Air Purifiers for Pets
• Best Air Purifiers for Allergies

FAQ on Best Air Purifiers

Final Conclusion: Which One is the Best For You?

I’m sure that after reading this comprehensive guide, you have a better understanding of what air purifier you need and which one will be your next choice. All the air purifiers listed in this guide are top-notch, and they come with my absolute recommendation.

However, as the best buying option, especially for dealing with dust, pollen, pet dander, pet hair, and light kitchen smells, I would pick the Levoit Vital 200S.

On the other hand, if your main concern is the neutralization of cigarette smoke, secondhand smoke, and VOCs, then go with the Austin Air HealthMate Jr.

Furthermore, if you are looking for an air purifier that is well-priced and suitable for all situations, then you should also consider the Winix 5500-2, which is a great alternative if you for some reason don’t fancy the Vital 200S.

If you want to explore more about the devices shown, I suggest you check out the individual reviews on the Air Purifier First website or on the YouTube channel, where you will find more detailed and comprehensive information about the device you are interested in.

For any questions about this article, please use the comment box below.