8 Best Air Purifiers – Must Read Before Buying! (2023)

Air purifiers are a vital appliance in every household, providing a wide range of benefits, such as reducing allergens, mold spores, pet odors, cooking smells, wildfire smoke, dust, and other airborne impurities.

Based on personal experimentation and testing of air purifiers, I can say that they are excellent at fighting air pollutants and that you can really feel the difference in the air quality after just a few minutes of usage.

Best Air Purifiers - In-depth Guide
Top 8 air purifiers you can buy at the moment.

In this comprehensive guide, you will find the top eight air purifiers currently available in the market. Each one promises to enhance the air quality in your home. Whether you’re looking for a classic air purifier, or a smart one that can be adjusted remotely, or a noiseless air purifier for your bedroom, this article highlights the finest air purifiers to meet your needs.

The recommended air purifiers have undergone extensive testing on multiple parameters, including room coverage, performance, noise level, energy consumption, etc. Accordingly, I can say for sure that this is the only guide for buying an air purifier you will ever need!

Here’s a Summary of The 8 Best Air Purifiers

  • Winix 5500-2 – The best air purifier overall, it uses 4-stage filtration technology, has a washable carbon filter, has a built-in air quality sensor and auto mode, and has outstanding performance.
  • Coway AP-1512HH – The second best choice. 4-stage filtration technology, dust particle air quality sensor, high reliability, and excellent performance are the features that make it stand out.
  • Levoit Core 400S – Low power consumption, affordable replacement filters, and a handful of smart options. It’s the best smart air purifier!
  • Alen FLEX – Whisper quiet air purifier, high-quality filters, and several different design options, so you’re sure to find the best one for your room.
  • Blueair 211+ – An excellent choice for large spaces, intended for rooms up to 540 sq. ft. Minimalistic air purifier with just one button operation. It uses 3-stage filtration and HEPASilent technology.
  • Levoit Core 600S – Is designed for large rooms of up to 635 sq. ft. It uses a 3-stage filtration technology and has plenty of smart options.
  • Levoit Core 300 – The best low-cost air purifier on the list will best fit rooms up to 219 sq ft. It uses a 3-stage filtration technology. It has a built-in timer, screen lock, display-off, and filter reset indicator options.
  • Blueair 411 Auto – The most affordable maintenance air purifier. Easy to use air purifier designed for rooms up to 190 sq. ft. and powered by only a 10W motor.

*If you click any of these links and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you.

The 8 Best Air Purifiers

When building the list of the best air purifiers on the market, I gave special attention to the following factors:

  • CADR – Clean Air Delivery Rate
  • Room coverage
  • Device features
  • Filtration technology used
  • Performance tests
  • Noise tests
  • Operating costs
  • Value for money
  • Tests in real-life conditions

In the continuation of the article, I will list the top 8 best air purifiers based on the above factors.

Winix 5500-2 – Top Pick

Winix 5500-2 - Best Air Purifier
Winix 5500-2 air purifier.

Winix 5500-2 Highlights

  • The Winix 5500-2 performed well in the performance tests, improving air quality by about 96%.
  • It uses 5 different speeds and has a very quiet sleep mode that produces a sound of only 40.6 dBA. However, it is slightly louder in Turbo mode, producing a sound of 66.4 dBA.
  • Although it uses a 70W motor, the Winix 5500-2 is not wasting much energy and is Energy Star certified.
  • With low power consumption and long-lasting filters this air purifier is very affordable for annual maintenance.

According to all the tests I have done, the Winix 5500-2 showed as the best air purifier for purchase. This air purifier has 4-stage filtration technology consisting of a washable pre-filter, an activated carbon washable filter, a True HEPA filter, and PlasmaWave technology. The PlasmaWave is the final filtration stage, but it is optional, and it is up to you whether you will use it or not. However, keep in mind that the PlasmaWave is turned on by default.

Although the Winix 5500-2 is recommended for rooms up to 360 sq. ft., its exceptional performance test results prove that it could effectively purify the air in larger spaces as well.

What sets the Winix 5500-2 apart are its excellent performance, five different fan speeds, long-lasting filters, and plenty of advanced options. The Winix 5500-2 air purifier comes with several advanced features, including real-time odor detection through an air quality sensor, an air quality indicator, auto mode, remote control, and a light sensor, which enhance its usage daily and take it to the next level.

I recommend the Winix 5500-2 for almost any condition, whether it’s to combat pollen allergies, mold spores, or dust. Additionally, thanks to its high-quality carbon filter, I also recommend it for neutralizing cooking odors and fighting cigarette smoke. Overall, this is an air purifier for all situations!

Filters Washable Pre-filter, Washable AOC Carbon Filter, and True HEPA Filter
Filter Longevity up to 12 months
Coverage (4.8 ACH) 360 sq. ft.
Power Consumption 70W
Noise Ranges 40.6 – 66.4 dBA
Warranty 2-year
In-depth Review Winix 5500-2 Review

Coway AP-1512HH – Runner Up

Coway AP-1512HH - Best Air Purifier
Coway AP-1512HH air purifier.

Coway AP-1512HH Highlights

  • The Coway AP-1512HH performed exceptionally well, improving air quality by about 96% in the tests in a 320 sq. ft. room.
  • The Coway AP-1512HH is also Energy Star certified, but to be honest, it is a slightly bigger energy consumer than some competing air purifiers. Fortunately, a well-optimized ECO mode will help reduce energy costs.
  • Replacement filters are long-lasting, especially the True HEPA filter, so combined with the power consumption, this air purifier isn’t very expensive to maintain annually.
  • I would like if this air purifier had more than 3 speeds and/or a sleep mode.
  • The noise produced by the Coway ranges between 41.4 – 63.5 dBA.

The Coway AP-1512HH is the second-best choice after the Winix. I like the Coway, and what I see as an advantage over the Winix is the air quality sensor that detects dust particles, unlike the Winix, which only detects odors. In addition, the Coway sensor has the option of adjusting the sensitivity. It uses 4-stage filtration, comprising a washable pre-filter, a carbon-coated fiber filter, a True HEPA filter, and an ionizer

The ionizer is also optional on this air purifier and can be switched off if required. Unlike the PlasmaWave on the Winix, the Coway ionizer is switched off by default. The Coway AP-1512HH covers rooms up to 361 sq. ft. It has many advanced options, including an air quality sensor, air quality indicator, auto mode, ECO mode, and ionizer.

Overall, the Coway AP-1512HH is a high-quality air purifier that will undoubtedly make the air in your place less polluted. I recommend this air purifier for any room, especially the living room, bedroom, or children’s room. However, I prefer the Winix air purifier over the Coway when VOC neutralization is a priority due to its higher-quality carbon filter.

Coway AP-1512HH Air Purifier - Smoke Test
The Coway AP-1512HH cleaned all the smoke from the smoke box in the 18s.
Filters Pre-filter, Deodorization Filter, and True HEPA Filter
Filter Longevity up to 12 months
Coverage (4.8 ACH) 361 sq. ft.
Power Consumption 77W
Noise Ranges 41.4 – 63.5 dBA
Warranty 3-year
In-depth Review Coway AP-1512HH Review

Levoit Core 400S – Best Smart Option

Levoit Core 400S - Best Air Purifier
Levoit Core 400S air purifier.

Levoit Core 400S Highlights

  • Outstanding performance, improved air quality by about 96% in a 320 sq. ft. room.
  • It has five fan speeds and is one of the quietest air purifiers I’ve tried. It’s a great air purifier for a bedroom.
  • Levoit air purifiers are well known for affordable maintenance; the same is with this model. The Core 400S uses only a 38W motor (24W for the European market).
  • Low energy consumption, Energy Star certification, and long-lasting filters are features that make the Levoit Core 400S very affordable to maintain annually.

The Levoit Core 400S is one of the best air purifiers on the list and certainly the best smart air purifier you can buy. The Core 400S connects to the VeSync smart app, which opens up new possibilities for the user and provides an entirely different experience when using the air purifier.

My favorite features of the Core 400S are the air quality sensor, the auto mode, but also the possibility of programming/automating the device. The Levoit Core 400S uses 3-stage filtration, comprising a pre-filter, a True HEPA filter, and an activated carbon filter

Compared to the previously mentioned Winix and Coway, the Levoit has larger room coverage of incredibly 403 sq. ft., but the Winix and Coway use higher-quality filters.

The Core 400S comes with a two-year warranty. Without a doubt, the Levoit Core 400S is one of the best Levoit air purifiers I have tested so far.

Filters Pre-filter, True HEPA filter and Activated Carbon filter
Filter Longevity up to 12 months
Coverage (4.8 ACH) 403 sq. ft.
Power Consumption 38W
Noise Ranges 42.1 – 59.9 dBA
Warranty 2-year
In-depth Review Levoit Core 400S Review

Alen BreatheSmart FLEX – Quiet and Efficient

Alen FLEX - Best Air Purifier
Alen FLEX air purifier.

Alen FLEX Highlights

  • The Alen FLEX improved air quality by an impressive 94% in the test in a 560 sq. ft. room.
  • It’s one of the quietest air purifiers on the market, and it’s very efficient. Interestingly, the noise levels on the Alen FLEX don’t exceed 53.7 dBA.
  • The Alen FLEX isn’t a big power consumer; it uses a motor of just 50W. However, replacement filters are a bit more expensive, which affects the overall maintenance costs of this air purifier on an annual basis.
  • I was impressed that the Alen FLEX has the option to activate a lifetime warranty if you subscribe to replacement filters on the Alen website.

The Alen BreatheSmart FLEX is a premium air purifier equipped with outstanding 3-stage filtration technology consisting of a pre-filter, True HEPA filter, and activated carbon filter. What I like about the FLEX is the option to buy different types of carbon filters that contain more or fewer carbon pellets. In fact, it is possible to buy a carbon filter that has 2+ lb of carbon pellets

This air purifier is the most suitable for rooms up to 300 sq. ft., but the FLEX has also shown outstanding results in slightly larger rooms. Additionally, this air purifier has four fan speeds and is one of the quietest air purifiers I have tried so far. That’s why it’s on the list of best air purifiers for the bedroom.

Because of its well-optimized motor and high-quality True HEPA filter, I recommend the Alen FLEX for the living room and bedroom to combat allergies, excessive dust, pet hair, and mold spores. In addition, due to the same quality carbon filter, I recommend this air purifier in the kitchen to fight smoke or in similar situations where odor neutralization and VOC neutralization is the primary goal.

It is important to note that this is a premium device, meaning the build quality is top-notch. The filter quality is also top-notch, making the filter price slightly higher than similar air purifiers.

Alen BreatheSmart FLEX - Smoke Test
The Alen FLEX needed 32s to clean all the smoke from the smoke box.
Filters Pre-filter, True HEPA Filter, and Activated Carbon Filter
Filter Longevity 9-12 months
Coverage (4.8 ACH) 300 sq. ft.
Power Consumption 50W
Noise Ranges 41.2 – 53.7 dBA
Warranty Lifetime
In-depth Review Alen FLEX Review

Blueair 211+ – Perfect for Large Rooms

Blueair 211+ - Best Air Purifier
Blueair 211+ air purifier.

Blueair 211+ Highlights

  • The Blueair 211+ showed excellent results in the test, improving air quality by approximately 92% in a 560 sq. ft. room in 60 minutes of operation at maximum speed.
  • At first speed, it is quiet enough, producing 43.9 dBA of sound, but at maximum speed, the sound is slightly louder, which some users may not like.
  • It has a slightly higher power consumer with a 61W motor. If you leave it running at maximum speed, 24 hours a day, your electricity bill will be increased by about $4.8 per month.
  • This air purifier comes with a 2-year warranty.

The Blueair 211+ is a large air purifier designed for rooms up to 540 sq. ft.

This minimalist air purifier uses a 3-in-1 filter comprising a pre-filter, a particulate filter, and a carbon-coated fiber filter. In addition, the Blueair features HEPASilent technology, which is the fourth filtration stage and can’t be switched off. It is important to note that the Blueair 211+ is a CARB-certified air purifier, which means it is safe to use.

The Blueair 211+ has no advanced options. This air purifier has one control knob, three fan speeds, and a filter reset indicator. However, I would like to point out that the Blueair remembers the last speed used, so you can use it in combination with a smart plug.

If you’re seeking an air purifier for a large room, the Blueair 211+ is a fantastic option. It’s particularly ideal if you’re dealing with dust or struggling with issues related to pollen and similar allergens. Whether you’re looking for an air purifier for your living room, kitchen, or any other large space, the Blueair 211+ is your choice.

Filters Fabric Pre-filter, Particle Filter, and Carbon Filter
Filter Longevity about 6 months
Coverage (4.8 ACH) 540 sq. ft.
Power Consumption 61W
Warranty 2-year
Noise Ranges 43.9 – 59.7 dBA
In-depth Review Blueair 211+ Review

Levoit Core 600S – Great for Large Rooms Too

Levoit Core 600S - Best Air Purifier
Levoit Core 600S air purifier.

Levoit Core 600S Highlights

  • The Levoit Core 600S is suitable for rooms of up to 635 sq. ft., in which it will clean the air 4.8 times in one hour.
  • It made outstanding results in a performance test in a room of 560 sq. ft., where it improved the air quality by about 96%.
  • It uses a three-stage filtration technology consisting of a pre-filter, a True HEPA filter, and an activated carbon filter.
  • The Core 600S has many smart options, such as an air quality sensor, air quality indicator, auto mode, smart app, and many more.
  • Levoit gives a 2-year warranty for this air purifier.

The Levoit Core 600S is another air purifier that I would recommend for large rooms. It covers rooms of up to 635 sq. ft. and is the largest air purifier in Levoit’s Core series.

It has plenty of advanced features, among which I like the air quality sensor, auto mode, air quality indicator, and the smart app the most. You can control the Core 600S through the VeSync app or the control panel. Also, you can set up the voiceover controls and make it much smarter.

Regarding the filtration technology, I’m extremely satisfied with the quality of the filters. It uses a three-stage filtration technology, which is somehow a standard in Levoit air purifiers. The first stage of filtration is a pre-filter, the second stage is a True HEPA filter, and the last stage is an activated carbon filter. It uses long-lasting filters that have to be changed approximately yearly.

The Core 600S made outstanding results in performance tests, is quite affordable for maintenance but is a bit louder on sleep and turbo modes than expected.

The Levoit Core 600S is CARB certified, produces no ozone, and is 100% safe to use. So, if you are looking for a smart yet mighty air purifier that fits large rooms, then the Levoit Core 600S is my absolute buying recommendation.

Filters Pre-filter, True HEPA Filter, and Activated Carbon Filter
Filter Longevity up to 12 months
Coverage (4.8 ACH) 635 sq. ft.
Power Consumption 49W
Warranty 2-year
Noise Ranges 43.9 – 68.5 dBA
In-depth Review Levoit Core 600S Review

Levoit Core 300 – Best Budget Option

Levoit Core 300 - Best Air Purifier
Levoit Core 300 air purifier.

Levoit Core 300 Highlights

  • The Core 300 performed amazingly in performance tests and improved air quality by about 93% in a 194 sq. ft. room.
  • The Levoit Core 300 is extremely quiet in sleep mode, producing a sound of only 40.7 dBA. It’s also quiet at other speeds, except at max speed, which makes a sound of 64.9 dBA.
  • This air purifier uses a 45W motor. Replacement filters last on average 6-8 months but are cheap, which means that the Core 300 has affordable annual maintenance.
  • The Core 300 comes with a 2-year warranty.

The Core 300 is one of the most popular air purifiers that Levoit has launched. It covers rooms up to 219 sq. ft., is ideal for small rooms, and is very affordable to maintain.

The Levoit Core 300 uses a 3-in-1 filter, which is cylindrical in shape and hollow through the middle. Levoit offers many replacement filter options in this model, so you can also purchase a pet allergy filter, a toxin absorber, or a mold bacteria filter.

This air purifier doesn’t have advanced features such as an air quality sensor, air quality indicator, or auto mode. Still, it has a timer, sleep mode, screen lock, display off, and filter reset indicator, which will be enough to simplify the air purifier usage daily. 

I recommend this air purifier to anyone looking for a small, portable, and efficient one that is also very affordable and won’t disappoint you. It is ideal for small spaces such as a small bedroom, office, small living room, small kitchen, etc.

Filters Pre-filter, True HEPA Filter, and Activated Carbon Filter
Filter Longevity 6-8 months
Coverage (4.8 ACH) 219 sq. ft.
Power Consumption 45W
Noise Ranges 40.7 – 64.9 dBA
Warranty 2-year
In-depth Review Levoit Core 300 Review

Blueair 411 Auto – Best Value for Money

Blueair 411 Auto - Best Air Purifier
Blueair 411 Auto air purifier.

Blueair 411 Auto Highlights

  • The Blueair 411 Auto improved air quality by about 94% in a 194 sq. ft. room.
  • It has three fan speeds, has no sleep mode, and is slightly louder at the top speed than I expected.
  • Blueair 411 Auto is one of the best energy savers on the market, using only a 10W motor. Add to that the long-lasting filters and the affordable price of replacement filters; this is one of the cheapest devices to maintain you can find on the market.
  • Blueair provides a 2-year warranty on this model.

The Blueair 411 Auto is another affordable air purifier that made the list of the best air purifiers.

It’s designed for rooms up to 190 sq. ft. and uses a 3-stage filtration technology, with the addition of a HEPASilent technology. The first filtration stage is a washable pre-filter, the second is a particle filter, and the third is a carbon filter. This air purifier is CARB certified, which means it doesn’t produce harmful amounts of ozone and is safe to use.

Apart from the Levoit Core 300, this is the most affordable air purifier on the list. I recommend it for small spaces such as a small bedroom, small living room, or small office.

Filters Fabric Pre-filter, Particle Filter, and Carbon Filter
Filter Longevity about 6 months
Coverage (4.8 ACH) 190 sq. ft.
Power Consumption 10W
Noise Ranges 41.6 – 61.2 dBA
Warranty 2-year
In-depth Review Blueair 411 Auto Review

8 Best Air Purifiers – Video Review

It is hard to choose the best air purifier for your needs because your needs are different from other people’s needs. That is the main reason why there are so many kinds of air purifiers on the market. I hope this best air purifier buying guide will help you find the best air purifier for you.

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.

Some of the air purifiers we have tested so far
Some of the air purifiers we have tested so far!

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.

Best Air Purifiers - Smoke Box Tests Comparison
This image presents a smoke test comparison between four different air purifiers.

You can see more these tests in detail on the Air Purifier First YouTube channel.

Priceprice/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.

Our tests are not lab-based; we use real-life conditions that we believe are much better, more accurate, and more accurately reflect the device’s performance.

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.

Best Air Purifier - Different Filter Types
I have placed a few different filters on the desk so you can compare them and see a difference.

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 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 fire smoke, which I very often suggest to people is the Winix 5500-2, whose pellet-based activated charcoal 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.

Washing the filter in the sink
The process of cleaning a washable filter with water.

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 set an Air Purifier Like a Pro?

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

Best 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 and Levoit Core 400S.

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 8 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.

The Competition

We have tested many air purifiers, some have made it to the best list, and some have not for different reasons. Below I will list some of the air purifiers we have tested so far and the reasons why we have removed them from the list of best air purifiers or why they are not on the current list.

Device Description Score
Xiaomi Mi 3H The Xiaomi Mi 3H is one of the best smart devices I’ve tested, and it also performed well in all tests. However, sometimes filters are not available for this air purifier, which can be annoying when you need them. 9.6
Blueair 411 The Blueair 411 is a very high-quality and popular air purifier. To be honest, I was hesitant whether to include this model or the Blueair 411 Auto in the buying guide. The air quality sensor made the decision to fall on the 411 Auto. 9.5
Smartmi P1 The Smartmi P1 is another smart air purifier with a luxurious look, good performance, and can be connected to HomeKit. 9.5
Winix C535 This is one outstanding air purifier that uses high-quality filtration technology, which made outstanding results in all tests. 9.5
Airdog X3 The Airdog X3 is an interesting air purifier that uses washable filters. It has an excellent performance, even though it uses washable filters. I don’t like that it has a replacement carbon filter, which ruins the idea of a 100% washable filter air purifier 9.5
DREO Macro Max S DREO Macro Max S scored amazingly in almost all the tests, but that wasn’t enough to declare it as one of the best air purifiers. However, this is a great air purifier to check. 9.5
Philips Series 800 The Philips Series 800 is a globally known air purifier. It is very reliable, performs well, and is an excellent buying option, but not that good to be on the list of the best air purifiers. 9.4
Levoit Core 200S The Levoit Core 200S is a fantastic, small air purifier that made outstanding results on all the tests. As the competition is enormous, it wasn’t found its place on the list, but I would suggest it if you need an air purifier for the bedroom. 9.4
Levoit Vital 100 The Levoit Vital 100 is another fantastic air purifier from Levoit. Excellent performance, quality filters, and ease of use make this air purifier a perfect choice for purchase. 9.4
Hathaspace HSP001 The Hathaspace HSP001 is a very powerful air purifier equipped with a 5-in-1 filter that is responsible for its outstanding performance. What puts me off with this model is that it does not have a filter reset indicator. 9.4
Mediify MA-25 The Medify MA-25 is characterized by its True HEPA dual filter. This makes it a very efficient device and a bit more expensive to maintain as you need to replace two filters instead of one. 9.2
Levoit LV-132 The Levoit LV-H132 was on the previous list as one of the best cheap air purifiers you can buy. I should mention that this is an old model and that many newer, better, and more efficient air purifiers have been released in a similar price range. 9.2
GermGuardian AC4825 The GermGuardian AC4825 is an excellent air purifier that has performed very well in all tests. However, one of the most popular air purifiers on the market has been taken off the list because we have tested many better air purifiers after this model, which have easily replaced it. 9.1
IKEA FÖRNUFTIG Overall, the Ikea FÖRNUFTIG is an affordable air purifier that I am generally happy with. But the lack of a True HEPA filter is something I see as a weakness of this model. 9.1
Aura Air The Aura Air is an innovative air purifier with features that are not usual for this device. It is designed for wall mounting, which may be a limitation for some users. 9.1
TruSens Z-1000 The TruSens Z1000 is a small, high-quality air purifier with a distinctive, modern design that fits into almost any environment. My complaint is that this model does not have a True HEPA filter. 9.1
GermGuardian AC4200W The GermGuardian AC4200W is one small, very decent air purifier. Still, there are simply many better devices on the market in a similar price range. 9.1
Levoit Core Mini This is the smallest air purifier in the Levoit Core series, characteristic of its minimalism, simple controls, and Aroma Pad addition. The Levoit Core Mini is an interesting air purifier but not competitive enough to be listed in this guide. 9.0
Honeywell HPA100 The Honeywell HPA100 is a small air purifier, very popular but with a somewhat industrial design. However, this does not change the fact that it is very reliable and efficient. 9.0
PARTU BS-08 The PARTU BS-08 is a decent air purifier that performed well on all tests. It is characterized by an interesting night light. However, it is often out of stock, as are replacement filters. 9.0
RENPHO RP-AP088W RENPHO RP-AP088W is a small air purifier intended for rooms up to 220 sq.m. ft. Unfortunately, this air purifier is not qualified for the list of the best air purifiers. 8.9
Hamilton Beach TrueAir The Hamilton Beach TrueAir is an air purifier with a washable filter, but not nearly as efficient as air purifiers with True HEPA filters. It is also extremely affordable and one of the cheapest devices out there. 8.8
Levoit Vista 200 The Levoit Vista 200 is a decent air purifier, very nicely designed, and easily fits into any environment. However, many other Levoit air purifiers are also nicely designed but with slightly better performance and scores on tests. 8.6
Molekule Air The Molekule Air is definitely the air purifier around which most of the dust is raised on the market. Basically, this air purifier does its job, but not as good as it should be given the price. 8.3
Jinpus GL-2103 Jinpus GL-2103 is one of the worst-performed air purifiers I have tested. This air purifier doesn’t have anything to offer; it uses low-quality filtration technology, and I suggest avoiding buying this device. 6.8

FAQ on Best Air Purifiers

Do air purifiers really work?

Yes, they work! Air purifiers are proven to work and improve the air quality in the rooms they are used in.

What is a HEPA filter?

A HEPA filter, also known as a High-Efficiency Particulate Absorption filter or High-Efficiency Particulate Arrestancefilter, is the standard of air filter performance. Filters that meet the HEPA standard must meet certain efficiency levels.

Why are some air purifiers not listed?

Quite simply, this is a list of the best air purifiers I have tested so far. The reason why an air purifier is not on the list but may have a good predisposition to be on the list is that I have not yet tested that device.

Are air purifiers a waste of money?

No. Air purifiers are not a waste of money, and there are several ways to confirm this before buying one, and I recommend checking out the detailed tests published on the Air Purifier First website or YouTube channel and reading the hundreds of positive comments on the YT channel.

Do air purifiers increase or decrease oxygen in a room?

Air purifiers do not reduce the amount of oxygen in the air.

Do I use any of the air purifiers daily?

Yes, of course. As I have received this question from many users, it is time to answer. I use different air purifiers during the month. Mostly the devices I test. However, lately, I have found the Levoit Core 400S to be the air purifier that suits me best. I use it in the living room. Additionally, I use the Core 200S in the bedroom because I have a small bedroom where this model is sufficient.

Final Thoughts

I have presented a list of the best air purifiers that you can currently buy on the market. These are really top-of-the-range devices, top quality, performance, and worth buying.

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

I hope this buying guide will be helpful to many users and help them choose the best air purifier. If you have any questions, I invite you to post them in the comments box below. Suggestions for new product reviews or any other suggestions are also welcome.

1 response to “8 Best Air Purifiers – Must Read Before Buying! (2023)”

  1. Mike

    Great research! It helped me a lot.

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