What I don’t like about the air purifier niche is the constant marketing manipulation related mostly to CADR values of devices and filtration technology used.
These two are the most important factors of an air purifier.
I always recommend that readers check the EnergyStar website for a detailed and reliable overview of an air purifier’s filtration technology and CADR rating.
The biggest problem here is that brands can put almost any word they want in their promo materials. So, you will likely find a device advertised as True HEPA that costs less than $40, which is, in my opinion, impossible. Such a cheap device can’t have a True HEPA filter.
To ensure accuracy and reliability, I test and verify every device myself. That’s why I, in this guide, created a list of the best True HEPA air purifiers you can get. These are only devices that are listed on EnergyStar and that provided outstanding results in our tests.
In a Hurry? Here’s a Quick Summary of the Best True HEPA Air Purifiers!
- Winix 5510 – The best True HEPA air purifier you can buy. It covers rooms up to 392 sq. ft. (36 m²), is very affordable and easy to maintain, and produced excellent results in all tests.
- Coway AP-1512HH – This has been one of the best air purifiers we’ve tested for quite some time. It uses a True HEPA filter and is ideal for people who have allergies to airborne particles, as well as for people with pets.
- Alen FLEX – Premium air purifier with premium filtration technology. Not only does it use a True HEPA filter, but it also has a high-quality pellet-based carbon filter.
- Winix A231 – The best small True HEPA air purifier. I’m sure you won’t find a more affordable True HEPA air purifier with such good performance and test results.
- IQAir HealthPro Plus – A premium air purifier that has been on the market for decades and has proven itself many times. It uses high-quality filters, covers rooms up to 406 sq. ft. (37.7 m²), and features a medical-grade filter.
*If you click any of these links and make a purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost to you.
Top 5 True HEPA Air Purifiers
In the following sections, you will find a more detailed explanation of the best air purifiers with True HEPA filters.
However, for more detailed reviews and comprehensive test results, I recommend reading our individual reviews.
Winix 5510 – High CADR & App Control
Winix 5510 Highlights
- The Winix 5510 is one of the rare air purifiers with such quality filtration technology in this price range.
- It uses four-stage filtration technology, but for the purposes of this article, the most important stage for us is the True HEPA filter.
- It produced excellent results on both airborne particle removal and smoke removal tests. It removed all smoke from the glass box in just 20 seconds.
- It has many smart options, works with the Winix smart app, and has an air quality sensor.
The Winix 5510 is one of the best air purifiers we’ve tested and definitely the best True HEPA air purifier.
Not only did it perform outstandingly on all tests, but it also has many advanced options, very affordable filters, and a high reputation, especially for a new air purifier on the market.
The True HEPA filter in the Winix 5510 air purifier will remove 99.97% of airborne particles as small as 0.3 microns in size.
In our performance tests, we measured how effectively this air purifier would remove PM2.5 particles from the air.
In a test in a room measuring 320 sq. ft. (30 m²), after just 60 minutes of operation at maximum speed, the Winix 5510 reduced the amount of PM2.5 particles from 104.9 to 4.7 µg/m³, which is an outstanding result.
On top of everything, the Winix 5510 is EnergyStar certified, which along with everything mentioned above definitely makes it the best True HEPA air purifier.
Specs: Winix 5510
| Dimensions (inches / cm) | 13.6 x 8.3 x 22.2 inches (34.6 x 21.1 x 56.4 cm) |
| Weight (pounds / kg) | 13.3 lb (6 kg) |
| Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) | 253 CFM (430 mÂł/h) |
| Filtration Technology | Pre-filter, Activated Carbon Filter, True HEPA Filter, and PlasmaWave |
| Filter Life | up to 12 months |
| Air Quality Sensor Air Quality Sensor Summary: Out of 91 air purifiers tested, only 44 have the air quality sensor. | Yes |
| Auto Mode Auto Mode Summary: Out of 91 air purifiers tested, only 45 have auto mode functionality. | Yes |
| Smart App Smart App Summary: Out of 91 air purifiers tested, only 26 have smart app functionality. | Yes |
| Coverage (4.8 ACH)
Room Coverage Explanation: ACH is a measurement used in indoor air quality management to indicate how many times the air within a defined space is changed/moved through the filter media.
For more details, visit our ACH calculator tool. | 392 sq. ft. (36 m²) |
| Performance Ratings Performance Ratings Score Summary: 8.3 - Average Score (91 products) 9.9 - Best Score (1 products) 1 - Worst Score (1 products) We use the Temtop LKC-1000S laser particle meter to test the particle removal efficiency of every air purifier. It measures PM2.5 (µg/m3), PM10 (µg/m3), Particles (per/L), and HCHO (mg/m3) in the air, and also calculates the AQI. You can read more about our testing methodology here. | |
| Power Consumption
Power Usage Summary: Our extensive testing of 91 air purifiers revealed the following power consumption insights:
Check out our power consumption calculator tool. | 65W |
| Operating Costs Ratings Operating Costs Ratings Score Summary: 9 - Average Score (91 products) 10 - Best Score (2 products) 1.7 - Worst Score (1 products) We measure the power usage at all speeds using an energy meter, after which we calculate how much it would cost to use the device at a particular fan speed for one month. For reference, we use an energy price of $0.12 per kWh. You can read more about our testing methodology here. | |
| Noise Level (low – high) | 40.2 – 65.7 dBA |
| Noise Ratings Noise Ratings Score Summary: 9.3 - Average Score (91 products) 10 - Best Score (1 products) 8.2 - Worst Score (1 products) We use a special noise measurement tool to test the noise level of the air purifier at all speeds. We measured the noise level on the dBA scale. You can read more about our testing methodology here. |
Winix 5510 – Video Review
If you’d rather prefer video content, then our video review of the Winix 5510 is just what you need.
Coway AP-1512HH – Trusted Allergy Option
Coway AP-1512HH Air Purifier, now $214.20 (save 7%)
Coway AP-1512HH Keypoints
- With a CADR of 233 CFM (396 m³/h), the Coway AP-1512HH is ideal for rooms up to 361 sq. ft. (33 m²).
- It uses four-stage filtration technology, and has a True HEPA filter.
- In performance tests in a room of 320 sq. ft. (30 m²), it improved air quality by about 96% in 60 minutes.
- In the smoke test, it removed all smoke from the glass box in just 18 seconds.
The Coway AP-1512HH is one of the first air purifiers I bought and tested, and I must say that even now, after so many years, it still ranks well at the very top.
I’ve recommended this model in many guides such as the best air purifiers for allergies, but also as an excellent choice for pets.
What makes the Coway AP-1512HH a very good choice for this guide is its high-quality filtration technology, with one difference from other devices on the list – Coway uses an ionizer, which means it produces ozone when the ionizer is turned on.
However, Coway is CARB-certified, which means it doesn’t produce ozone above permitted levels.
This air purifier uses a quality True HEPA filter, which is the main reason why the Coway AP-1512HH produced such good results in airborne particle removal tests.
It doesn’t have smart options, but it has an air quality sensor, air quality indicator, auto mode, and ECO mode.
Essentially, this is another excellent True HEPA air purifier you can buy, with special emphasis on people who are allergic to airborne particles such as dust, pollen, allergens, and similar.
Specs: Coway AP-1512HH
| Dimensions (inches / cm) | 16.81 x 9.65 x 18.30 inches (42.7 x 24.5 x 46.5 cm) |
| Weight (pounds / kg) | 12.8 lb (5.8 kg) |
| Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) | 233 CFM (396 mÂł/h) |
| Filtration Technology | Pre-filter, Deodorization Filter, True HEPA Filter, and Ionizer |
| Filter Life | up to 12 months |
| Air Quality Sensor Air Quality Sensor Summary: Out of 91 air purifiers tested, only 44 have the air quality sensor. | Yes |
| Auto Mode Auto Mode Summary: Out of 91 air purifiers tested, only 45 have auto mode functionality. | Yes |
| Smart App Smart App Summary: Out of 91 air purifiers tested, only 26 have smart app functionality. | No |
| Coverage (4.8 ACH)
Room Coverage Explanation: ACH is a measurement used in indoor air quality management to indicate how many times the air within a defined space is changed/moved through the filter media.
For more details, visit our ACH calculator tool. | 361 sq. ft. (33 m²) |
| Performance Ratings Performance Ratings Score Summary: 8.3 - Average Score (91 products) 9.9 - Best Score (1 products) 1 - Worst Score (1 products) We use the Temtop LKC-1000S laser particle meter to test the particle removal efficiency of every air purifier. It measures PM2.5 (µg/m3), PM10 (µg/m3), Particles (per/L), and HCHO (mg/m3) in the air, and also calculates the AQI. You can read more about our testing methodology here. | |
| Power Consumption
Power Usage Summary: Our extensive testing of 91 air purifiers revealed the following power consumption insights:
Check out our power consumption calculator tool. | 77W |
| Operating Costs Ratings Operating Costs Ratings Score Summary: 9 - Average Score (91 products) 10 - Best Score (2 products) 1.7 - Worst Score (1 products) We measure the power usage at all speeds using an energy meter, after which we calculate how much it would cost to use the device at a particular fan speed for one month. For reference, we use an energy price of $0.12 per kWh. You can read more about our testing methodology here. | |
| Noise Level (low – high) | 41.4 – 63.5 dBA |
| Noise Ratings Noise Ratings Score Summary: 9.3 - Average Score (91 products) 10 - Best Score (1 products) 8.2 - Worst Score (1 products) We use a special noise measurement tool to test the noise level of the air purifier at all speeds. We measured the noise level on the dBA scale. You can read more about our testing methodology here. |
Coway AP-1512HH – Video Review
If you’d rather prefer video content, then our video review of the Coway AP-1512HH is just what you need.
Alen FLEX – Ultra‑Quiet HEPA
Alen FLEX Highlights
- It has a CADR of 187 CFM (317 m³/h) which makes it ideal for rooms up to 300 sq. ft. (28 m²).
- It doesn’t have advanced functions but uses some of the best filters on the market. I would especially highlight the True HEPA and pellet-based activated carbon filters.
- It uses a motor with only 50W and produces sound in the range between 41.2 – 53.7 dBA.
- The Alen FLEX is EnergyStar and CARB certified. It doesn’t produce ozone, and its CADR value and HEPA filter reliability are confirmed.
The Alen FLEX has found its place in many guides and is one of the air purifiers I very often recommend, primarily for two reasons: high-quality filtration technology and a very quiet motor.
This air purifier uses three-stage filtration technology, but what’s most important to us in this guide is that it uses a True HEPA filter, which is of exceptional quality, and one of the best on the market.
The Alen FLEX has no ionizer or UV-C light, or any similar filtration stage, doesn’t produce ozone and is 100% safe to use.
What is a potential drawback of this model is that it has no advanced features and no air quality sensor, which is very rare in this price range.
However, it showed excellent performance in our tests – in a room of 560 sq. ft. (52 m²) it improved air quality by about 94% in just 60 minutes of operation at max speed.
I would say that the Alen FLEX is the best True HEPA air purifier for everyone looking for an extremely efficient device that is also very quiet.
Specs: Alen FLEX
| Dimensions (inches / cm) | 8.5 x 15 x 25 inches (21,6 x 38,1 x 63,5 cm) |
| Weight (pounds / kg) | 15 lb (6.8 kg) |
| Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) | 187 CFM (317 mÂł/h) |
| Filtration Technology | Pre-filter, True HEPA Filter, and Activated Carbon Filter |
| Filter Life | 9-12 months |
| Air Quality Sensor Air Quality Sensor Summary: Out of 91 air purifiers tested, only 44 have the air quality sensor. | No |
| Auto Mode Auto Mode Summary: Out of 91 air purifiers tested, only 45 have auto mode functionality. | No |
| Smart App Smart App Summary: Out of 91 air purifiers tested, only 26 have smart app functionality. | No |
| Coverage (4.8 ACH)
Room Coverage Explanation: ACH is a measurement used in indoor air quality management to indicate how many times the air within a defined space is changed/moved through the filter media.
For more details, visit our ACH calculator tool. | 300 sq. ft. (28 m²) |
| Performance Ratings Performance Ratings Score Summary: 8.3 - Average Score (91 products) 9.9 - Best Score (1 products) 1 - Worst Score (1 products) We use the Temtop LKC-1000S laser particle meter to test the particle removal efficiency of every air purifier. It measures PM2.5 (µg/m3), PM10 (µg/m3), Particles (per/L), and HCHO (mg/m3) in the air, and also calculates the AQI. You can read more about our testing methodology here. | |
| Power Consumption
Power Usage Summary: Our extensive testing of 91 air purifiers revealed the following power consumption insights:
Check out our power consumption calculator tool. | 50W |
| Operating Costs Ratings Operating Costs Ratings Score Summary: 9 - Average Score (91 products) 10 - Best Score (2 products) 1.7 - Worst Score (1 products) We measure the power usage at all speeds using an energy meter, after which we calculate how much it would cost to use the device at a particular fan speed for one month. For reference, we use an energy price of $0.12 per kWh. You can read more about our testing methodology here. | |
| Noise Level (low – high) | 41.2 – 53.7 dBA |
| Noise Ratings Noise Ratings Score Summary: 9.3 - Average Score (91 products) 10 - Best Score (1 products) 8.2 - Worst Score (1 products) We use a special noise measurement tool to test the noise level of the air purifier at all speeds. We measured the noise level on the dBA scale. You can read more about our testing methodology here. |
Alen FLEX – Video Review
If you’d rather prefer video content, then our video review of the Alen FLEX is just what you need.
Winix A231 – Best HEPA For Small Spaces
Winix A231 Air Purifier, now $93.43 (save 7%)
Winix A231 Highlights
- It’s designed for small rooms up to 230 sq. ft. (21 m²).
- It uses four-stage filtration technology: Pre-filter, Activated Carbon Filter, True HEPA Filter, and PlasmaWave.
- It doesn’t work with a smart app but has many advanced options.
- In performance tests, it produced excellent results and also achieved excellent results in noise, power, and smoke tests.
I would say that the Winix A231 is the smallest air purifier on this list, but that doesn’t diminish its value, especially due to the fact that this is one of the rare small air purifiers that uses a True HEPA filter.
This air purifier uses a cylindrical filter, is CARB certified, EnergyStar certified, and most importantly produced fantastic results in all tests.
In performance tests in a room measuring 194 sq. ft. (18 m²), it improved air quality by about 95% in just 60 minutes of operation at max speed.
Like the previously mentioned Winix 5510, this small Winix A231 also uses PlasmaWave technology, produces ozone under allowed values and is completely safe for use.
What could be a drawback for some is that it doesn’t work with a smart app, but it has many advanced features such as an air quality sensor, air quality indicator, and auto mode.
All in all, this is definitely the best small True HEPA air purifier, and I’m sure it will serve excellently in small rooms.
Specs: Winix A231 (A230)
| Dimensions (inches / cm) | 9.5 x 9.5 x 14.6 inches (24.1 x 24.1 x 37.1 cm) |
| Weight (pounds / kg) | 6.75 lb (3.1 kg) |
| Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) | 147 CFM (250 mÂł/h) |
| Filtration Technology | Pre-filter, Activated Carbon Filter, True HEPA Filter, and PlasmaWave |
| Filter Life | up to 12 months |
| Air Quality Sensor Air Quality Sensor Summary: Out of 91 air purifiers tested, only 44 have the air quality sensor. | Yes |
| Auto Mode Auto Mode Summary: Out of 91 air purifiers tested, only 45 have auto mode functionality. | Yes |
| Smart App Smart App Summary: Out of 91 air purifiers tested, only 26 have smart app functionality. | No |
| Coverage (4.8 ACH)
Room Coverage Explanation: ACH is a measurement used in indoor air quality management to indicate how many times the air within a defined space is changed/moved through the filter media.
For more details, visit our ACH calculator tool. | 230 sq. ft. (21 m²) |
| Performance Ratings Performance Ratings Score Summary: 8.3 - Average Score (91 products) 9.9 - Best Score (1 products) 1 - Worst Score (1 products) We use the Temtop LKC-1000S laser particle meter to test the particle removal efficiency of every air purifier. It measures PM2.5 (µg/m3), PM10 (µg/m3), Particles (per/L), and HCHO (mg/m3) in the air, and also calculates the AQI. You can read more about our testing methodology here. | |
| Power Consumption
Power Usage Summary: Our extensive testing of 91 air purifiers revealed the following power consumption insights:
Check out our power consumption calculator tool. | 55W |
| Operating Costs Ratings Operating Costs Ratings Score Summary: 9 - Average Score (91 products) 10 - Best Score (2 products) 1.7 - Worst Score (1 products) We measure the power usage at all speeds using an energy meter, after which we calculate how much it would cost to use the device at a particular fan speed for one month. For reference, we use an energy price of $0.12 per kWh. You can read more about our testing methodology here. | |
| Noise Level (low – high) | 40.2 – 66.5 dBA |
| Noise Ratings Noise Ratings Score Summary: 9.3 - Average Score (91 products) 10 - Best Score (1 products) 8.2 - Worst Score (1 products) We use a special noise measurement tool to test the noise level of the air purifier at all speeds. We measured the noise level on the dBA scale. You can read more about our testing methodology here. |
Winix A231 (A230) – Video Review
If you’d rather prefer video content, then our video review of the Winix A231 (A230) is just what you need.
IQAir HealthPro Plus – Medical-Grade HEPA
IQAir HealthPro Plus Keypoints
- With a CADR of 260 CFM (440 m³/h), it covers rooms up to 406 sq. ft. (37.7 m²).
- It uses a three-stage filtration system: PreMax F8, V5-Cell Gas & Odor Filter, and HyperHEPA Filter (H12/13).
- The filters are very long-lasting — the HEPA filter typically lasts 3–4 years, which is a few times longer than in competing devices.
- In performance tests, it demonstrated all its qualities and achieved results that are hard to beat.
The IQAir HealthPro Plus uses one of the highest-quality filtration technologies on the market. Its filters have been proven and trusted for decades, which is likely why many medical institutions choose this air purifier.
It uses a three-stage filtration system, and while it includes an excellent pellet-based carbon filter that effectively adsorbs odors, what matters most for this article, and the reason why it’s on the list, is the HyperHEPA H13 filter, which is equivalent to True HEPA filters.
It has a CADR of 260 CFM (440 m³/h), making it ideal for rooms up to 406 sq. ft. (37.7 m²). In a room of that size, it can clean the air 4.8 times per hour.
In all our tests, it achieved fantastic results, ranking among the top three devices we’ve tested so far. In a 320 sq. ft. (30 m²) room, it improved air quality by 96% in just 60 minutes of operation at maximum speed.
All in all, the IQAir HealthPro Plus is a reliable, medical-grade HEPA air purifier that deservedly earned its place on our list.
The only potential downsides worth mentioning are its somewhat higher price, lack of smart features, and slightly higher power consumption.
Specs: IQAir HealthPro Plus
| Dimensions (inches / cm) | 28 x 15 x 16 inches (71 x 38 x 41 cm) |
| Weight (pounds / kg) | 35 lb (15.8 kg) |
| Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) | 260 CFM (440 mÂł/h) |
| Filtration Technology | PreMax F8, V5-Cell Gas & Odor Filter, and HyperHEPA Filter (H12/13) |
| Filter Life | Pre-filter and Carbon 12-18 months, HEPA filter 3-4 years |
| Air Quality Sensor Air Quality Sensor Summary: Out of 91 air purifiers tested, only 44 have the air quality sensor. | No |
| Auto Mode Auto Mode Summary: Out of 91 air purifiers tested, only 45 have auto mode functionality. | No |
| Smart App Smart App Summary: Out of 91 air purifiers tested, only 26 have smart app functionality. | No |
| Coverage (4.8 ACH)
Room Coverage Explanation: ACH is a measurement used in indoor air quality management to indicate how many times the air within a defined space is changed/moved through the filter media.
For more details, visit our ACH calculator tool. | 406 sq. ft. (37.7 m²) |
| Performance Ratings Performance Ratings Score Summary: 8.3 - Average Score (91 products) 9.9 - Best Score (1 products) 1 - Worst Score (1 products) We use the Temtop LKC-1000S laser particle meter to test the particle removal efficiency of every air purifier. It measures PM2.5 (µg/m3), PM10 (µg/m3), Particles (per/L), and HCHO (mg/m3) in the air, and also calculates the AQI. You can read more about our testing methodology here. | |
| Power Consumption
Power Usage Summary: Our extensive testing of 91 air purifiers revealed the following power consumption insights:
Check out our power consumption calculator tool. | 215W |
| Operating Costs Ratings Operating Costs Ratings Score Summary: 9 - Average Score (91 products) 10 - Best Score (2 products) 1.7 - Worst Score (1 products) We measure the power usage at all speeds using an energy meter, after which we calculate how much it would cost to use the device at a particular fan speed for one month. For reference, we use an energy price of $0.12 per kWh. You can read more about our testing methodology here. | |
| Noise Level (low – high) | 40.7 - 64.3 dBA |
| Noise Ratings Noise Ratings Score Summary: 9.3 - Average Score (91 products) 10 - Best Score (1 products) 8.2 - Worst Score (1 products) We use a special noise measurement tool to test the noise level of the air purifier at all speeds. We measured the noise level on the dBA scale. You can read more about our testing methodology here. |
Side-by-side Comparison of the Best True HEPA Air Purifiers
| Product Image | | 7% off | | 7% off | |
| Manufacturer | Winix | Coway | Alen | Winix | IQAir |
| Model | 5510 | AP-1512HH | BreatheSmart FLEX | A231 | HealthPro Plus |
| Dimensions (inches / cm) | 13.6 x 8.3 x 22.2 inches (34.6 x 21.1 x 56.4 cm) | 16.81 x 9.65 x 18.30 inches (42.7 x 24.5 x 46.5 cm) | 8.5 x 15 x 25 inches (21,6 x 38,1 x 63,5 cm) | 9.5 x 9.5 x 14.6 inches (24.1 x 24.1 x 37.1 cm) | 28 x 15 x 16 inches (71 x 38 x 41 cm) |
| Weight (pounds / kg) | 13.3 lb (6 kg) | 12.8 lb (5.8 kg) | 15 lb (6.8 kg) | 6.75 lb (3.1 kg) | 35 lb (15.8 kg) |
| Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) | 253 CFM (430 mÂł/h) | 233 CFM (396 mÂł/h) | 187 CFM (317 mÂł/h) | 147 CFM (250 mÂł/h) | 260 CFM (440 mÂł/h) |
| Coverage (4.8 ACH)
Room Coverage Explanation: ACH is a measurement used in indoor air quality management to indicate how many times the air within a defined space is changed/moved through the filter media.
For more details, visit our ACH calculator tool. | 392 sq. ft. (36 m²) | 361 sq. ft. (33 m²) | 300 sq. ft. (28 m²) | 230 sq. ft. (21 m²) | 406 sq. ft. (37.7 m²) |
| Performance Ratings Performance Ratings Score Summary: 8.3 - Average Score (91 products) 9.9 - Best Score (1 products) 1 - Worst Score (1 products) We use the Temtop LKC-1000S laser particle meter to test the particle removal efficiency of every air purifier. It measures PM2.5 (µg/m3), PM10 (µg/m3), Particles (per/L), and HCHO (mg/m3) in the air, and also calculates the AQI. You can read more about our testing methodology here. | |||||
| Filtration Technology | Pre-filter, Activated Carbon Filter, True HEPA Filter, and PlasmaWave | Pre-filter, Deodorization Filter, True HEPA Filter, and Ionizer | Pre-filter, True HEPA Filter, and Activated Carbon Filter | Pre-filter, Activated Carbon Filter, True HEPA Filter, and PlasmaWave | PreMax F8, V5-Cell Gas & Odor Filter, and HyperHEPA Filter (H12/13) |
| Filter Replacement Indicator | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Filter Life | up to 12 months | up to 12 months | 9-12 months | up to 12 months | Pre-filter and Carbon 12-18 months, HEPA filter 3-4 years |
| Power Consumption
Power Usage Summary: Our extensive testing of 91 air purifiers revealed the following power consumption insights:
Check out our power consumption calculator tool. | 65W | 77W | 50W | 55W | 215W |
| Operating Costs Ratings Operating Costs Ratings Score Summary: 9 - Average Score (91 products) 10 - Best Score (2 products) 1.7 - Worst Score (1 products) We measure the power usage at all speeds using an energy meter, after which we calculate how much it would cost to use the device at a particular fan speed for one month. For reference, we use an energy price of $0.12 per kWh. You can read more about our testing methodology here. | |||||
| Number of Fan Speeds | 5 - Sleep Mode, Speed 1, Speed 2, Speed 3, and Speed 4 | 3 – Speed 1, Speed 2, and Speed 3 | 4 – Speed 1, Speed 2, Speed 3, and Turbo Mode | 4 - Sleep Mode, Low, Medium, and High | 6 - Speed 1, Speed 2, Speed 3, Speed 4, Speed 5, and Speed 6 |
| Air Quality Sensor Air Quality Sensor Summary: Out of 91 air purifiers tested, only 44 have the air quality sensor. | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | No |
| Air Quality Indicator | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | No |
| Auto Mode Auto Mode Summary: Out of 91 air purifiers tested, only 45 have auto mode functionality. | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | No |
| Smart App Smart App Summary: Out of 91 air purifiers tested, only 26 have smart app functionality. | Yes | No | No | No | No |
| Voice Control Voice Control Summary: Out of 91 air purifiers tested, only 25 have voice control functionality. | Yes | No | No | No | No |
| Other Features | PlasmaWaveLight Sensor | IonizerTimer | Control Panel LockTimer | Sleep ModePlasmaWave | Long-life Filters |
| Noise Level (low – high) | 40.2 – 65.7 dBA | 41.4 – 63.5 dBA | 41.2 – 53.7 dBA | 40.2 – 66.5 dBA | 40.7 - 64.3 dBA |
| Noise Ratings Noise Ratings Score Summary: 9.3 - Average Score (91 products) 10 - Best Score (1 products) 8.2 - Worst Score (1 products) We use a special noise measurement tool to test the noise level of the air purifier at all speeds. We measured the noise level on the dBA scale. You can read more about our testing methodology here. | |||||
| Best Suited For | Pets Living Rooms Kitchens Allergies Smoke Dust Neutralizing VOCs | Pets Living Rooms Kitchens Allergies Dust | Living Rooms Bedrooms Kitchens Allergies Neutralizing VOCs Dust Mold Quiet Operation | Bedrooms Small Spaces Dust Allergies Children's Rooms | Living Rooms Kitchens Allergies Smoke Neutralizing VOCs Dust Long Filter Life |
| Warranty | 2-year | 3-year | 1-year to Lifetime | 2-year | 10-year |
| In-Depth Review | Winix 5510 | Coway AP-1512HH | Alen BreatheSmart FLEX | Winix A231 | IQAir HealthPro Plus |
| Price |
Scroll or swipe left/right to view the whole table.
FAQ on True HEPA Air Purifiers
What does True HEPA mean?
A True HEPA filter is independently tested and certified to remove 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 µm in size. The easiest way to confirm whether an air purifier has this certificate is to go to the EnergyStart website and search for the device you are looking for.
Beware of terms like HEPA-type or HEPA-like and similar —they don’t meet the same standard and are often less efficient than True HEPA.
Are True HEPA purifiers worth it?
Yes, they are! Especially if you suffer from allergies, asthma, or if you are allergic to airborne dust, mold, or similar.
The EPA confirms that portable HEPA air purifiers significantly reduce allergy and asthma symptoms and can even benefit cardiovascular health.
Do HEPA purifiers help with odor and VOCs?
HEPA filters capture particles like dust and pollen, but for gases and odors (VOCs, smoke, cooking smells), look for models with activated carbon filters.
Pellet-based or high-volume carbon performs much better than thin, coated carbon. I wrote a guide on the best air purifiers for smoke, but also the best ones for VOCs, which I recommend reading if you are looking for a device that will neutralize bad odors and VOCs.
How long does a True HEPA filter last?
Generally, True HEPA filters last 9–12 months, but pre-filters and carbon filters may need replacing more frequently.
What’s good is that almost every air purifier has a filter reset indicator that will let you know when to replace the filter. Among the more than 95 air purifiers we tested, only five models don’t have a filter reset indicator.
Final Thoughts
You won’t go wrong with any air purifier you choose from this list, because all these models use True HEPA filters, are very high quality, and produced excellent results in all our tests.
However, you should pay attention to some other parameters such as CADR, smart features, maintenance cost, and similar factors.
If we take all of this into consideration, I would say that the Winix 5510 is definitely the best choice and a foolproof option.
If you have any questions regarding this topic, don’t hesitate to leave a comment in the comment section below.
Hey Milan, thanks for the guide. I noticed above you say the Winix A231 doesn’t produce ozone? I looked it up because I thought all ionizers must produce at least a small amount of ozone, and that the term “plasma” in regards to air purifiers means ionizer. This is from their page, https://ausclimate.com.au/blogs/air-purifier-posts/what-is-winix-plasmawave?
In short, yes; Winix’ PlasmaWave® technology does not produce harmful levels of ozone. Independent tests confirm the ozone produced is an almost undetectable 3 ppb (parts per billion), which is substantially lower than the allowable level of 50ppb set by the USA’s Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Plasmawave® also meets the California Air Resource Board’s AB 2276 standard, which is the most rigorous American certification benchmark for indoor air cleaning ozone-emissions. To attain compliance, air-cleaning devices must be tested for electrical safety and have ozone emission ratings below the 50 parts per billion limit. Please note that if desired, the PlasmaWave® function on Winix’ Australian range of air purifiers can also be turned off at the user’s discretion.
So does that mean it does create ozone? It seems like it might, just very small amounts, as other purifiers with ionizers also do. Maybe the amounts in a Winix are smaller with their technology, I’m not sure. I’ve read elsewhere that other home appliances create ozone and that it shouldn’t be a big concern if kept at such small levels, but still.. to me any sort of ionization process just seems easily avoidable and I don’t get why companies use them in air purifiers. They don’t seem to have amazing benefits and if the whole goal is to make the air safer, it seems akin to selling a 100% hypoallergenic product with trace amounts of pollen or pet dander. It’s just something I’d rather avoid, even if it’s declared to be at safe levels, because what is considered safe often changes with time and because I feel it’s a pointless risk. From my understanding, the less ozone the better. So zero is what I’d prefer. Based on that, I used your guide and got a Levoit 200s for our larger living area, which I really like so far (have had it for 4 days) and my congestion seems already better.
I’m thinking of getting another purifier for a room one of my dogs sleeps in. She suffers from allergies and also sheds a lot. My main goals are just to keep me and my animals breathing best. I have 2 senior dogs with health conditions, one young dog with allergies, and a cat with leukemia. I also have congestion a lot. We probably have slight mold in places, (it’s an old house) and we have a lot of dust, pet dander, and pet hair. On top of that, I use an e-cigarette (juul) frequently, though not near her room. She’s the main shedder though and her room is a dust collector also. What would you recommend for her room? It’s not a large space so thought about maybe the Levoit 100s but it’s only just below the price of the 200s so would it be more worth it to just get another 200s? Or is there another brand you think would be better? I’d prefer one without an ionizer, even if it can be turned off, because why risk it. I’d also prefer the lowest price with best results machine wise and filter wise. Thanks in advance!
Hi Cait,
Thanks for pointing that out — you’re absolutely right. I originally wrote that the Winix A231 doesn’t produce ozone at all, but to be more precise, it produces ozone in very small, well-within-safe limits. These amounts are far below the thresholds considered harmful to humans or pets. Fixed this now, thanks!
I based that statement on EnergyStar’s testing data, as they’ve measured ozone emissions for almost every certified air purifier. However, since some of the EPA and EnergyStar databases have recently become less accessible, I’m actually considering getting an ozone meter myself so I can independently test all air purifiers I review.
I also always double-check the CARB database, since it’s one of the most reliable safety certifications confirming that an air purifier’s ozone emission is below 0.050 ppm.
You’re absolutely correct that the Levoit Vital 200S doesn’t produce ozone. However, if you ever decide on a Winix model, the PlasmaWave feature can be completely turned off, which then eliminates even the trace amounts of ozone.
Between the Levoit 100S and 200S, I’d definitely recommend going with the 200S if the budget allows. It’s more powerful, covers larger rooms, and is overall a better value in terms of performance. If you can, keep an eye out toward the end of November, as Levoit usually offers great discounts around that time.
Thanks for the quick response Milan! Apologies for my length above. I wasn’t able to format to italicize their quote and hadn’t had coffee yet or I would’ve tried to edit all that down. I also realized I’d forgotten the title of the post which led me to ask my question anyway. For my 2nd purifier, I was wondering if I should opt for a True HEPA filter brand instead. I didn’t know until after my purchase that Levoit Vital filters aren’t HEPA- not a great look for them that they were forced to change their wording. That said, I could still return it but I’ve read both here and on Wirecutter that the Levoit Vital 200s performs comparably to the best Coways. While Wirecutter chose the Conway as it’s pick, it was unclear to me as to why—they briefly give the Levoit 200s as another good option, state it matches the Coway in performance, and further down in the article say they don’t advise using ionizers but that the Coway ionizer can be turned off. I almost went with the Coway because it’s prettier but as the Vital is less expensive, gives similar performance, and doesn’t have an ionizer, I went with it.
Do you think that was still a good choice given that Levoit isn’t HEPA? Is CADR with a good carbon filter as important or more so for continuous cleaning or do you think I should opt for HEPA on the next one? Also, do you think I should get over the concern of ionizers if the levels are safe? I like my Levoit so far and will probably keep it, but for my second I’m not beholden to any brand.
Ps- I haven’t had the Vital 200s for long but I do think it was a good choice and am glad I looked at yours and other reviewers before just choosing Wirecutters top pick, especially since they vaguely alluded to it being just as good but with no real explanation as to why one is better.
It’s so quiet and also more attractive up close than I thought it’d be. I keep it between where I sleep, where one dog sleeps, and where my cat sleeps and I feel like it’s already really helping my congestion, so I assume theirs as well. I hope it’ll also help with dust levels and pet dander, if so that’d be AMAZING. (I’ve read that for dust, purifiers don’t pick up things off floor but rather airborne particles, which seems obvious but I bet many don’t realize. I intend to do a good sweeping and take purifier in each room as I do. Then I’d like to get one or two more purifiers for other rooms to keep the dust level from being so hardcore that I have to sweep so often.) If the Coway didn’t have an ionizer, I’d totally get one of those too, as I’ve read it’s great for dust. But I’m still confused on if the ionizer for that can be turned off completely or if it comes on automatically whenever the unit is turned on. I’m not super great with tech and can see me making a mistake there and I’m super cautious with my animals health so I wish they’d make that model without it.
Thank you so much for this guide! I should’ve tried a purifier ages ago, but didn’t really know they can help with things like dust / respiratory health as much as they do, and I don’t like to buy anything big unless I know how to make an informed choice. Your guide makes it WAY easier! THANK YOU!, 🙂
I’m glad to hear that!
I recommend cleaning the pre-filter 2-4 times a month, especially since you have pets — it’ll likely collect quite a bit of pet hair. It’s easy to clean; you can simply vacuum or even wash it.
You’re absolutely right, air purifiers can only capture airborne particles, meaning those tiny dust particles you sometimes see floating in the air (and the ones you can’t see as well).
What I like about the Coway AP-1512HH, compared to the Winix 5510/5500-2, is that the ionizer on the Coway is turned off by default, while on the Winix it’s on by default.
Also, you might want to check out my review of the Coway Airmega 150. It doesn’t use an ionizer, yet it delivers excellent performance. Just keep in mind that it’s a bit smaller and less powerful than the AP-1512HH.
Thank you again, Cait! It was a pleasure answering all your comments. If you have any other questions, feel free to ask anytime!
Hi again! Thank you for keeping the discussion open. Yes, I’m aware of the issue with comment formatting and will do my best to improve the comment form in the future.
The Levoit Vital 200S is one of the best air purifiers I’ve tested. Compared to the Coway AP-1512HH, it features a better carbon filter, although it doesn’t use a True HEPA filter. Still, for most people, the Levoit Vital 200S is my top recommendation.
You can check out my Coway AP-1512HH Vs Levoit Vital 200S comparison here.
Personally, I never use ionizers—not because I believe they’re harmful (they’re safe under the allowed limits), but simply out of personal preference. However, according to multiple studies, certifications, and official documents, these devices are considered safe to use. Just make sure the air purifier you plan to buy is CARB-certified.
You can also read my Clarifion ionizer review, where you’ll see that it made almost no improvement in air quality in our tests.
Hey man, love your videos. This list is very helpful. I was thinking of buying two air purifiers for my house. one in my kid room (winix 5510) & another in the living room (dreo mc710s).
Really getting it because of the combo but really haven’t seen any reviews on it. I was wondering what is your thoughts on the DREO fan/air purifier? I also have another fan of there & I like the app that it has.
Hey, thanks for your kind words.
I have tested just one DREO air purifier, and it performed pretty well, so I would say this company may be producing some well-built and well-performing devices. You can find a review of the DREO air purifier on the Air Purifier First website.
Please, do a comparison between 5510, 5500-2, 200S/100S., and maybe AP1512HH, featuring also long-term 5-10years costs.
Nothing else matters.
Hi, thanks for the recommendations.
I’ve actually compared some of the ones you mentioned:
– Winix 5510 Vs Winix 5500-2
– Coway AP-1512HH Vs Winix 5510
– Levoit Vital 200S Vs Winix 5500-2
– etc. (use the search on the website)
You can also use our new comparison tool if you’re looking for a quick comparison between the models.
Thank you for all your hard work generating these reports / comparisons. I am planning on getting a 7m MOTORHOME with end bedroom and wondered what you would suggest for that. Plus I have a cat and an even smaller dog but she does produce a lot of hair… I was thinking of the levoit mini which on their website does 14m2 – I can;t understand why air quality device are measured in m2 not m3…puzzles me endlessly. Anyway, I like that it is cheap to run, more so that it will use very little energy which is pretty important factor given you have to live of a charged battery when not plugged in…but it worried me that it doesn’t have a true HEPA with the dog – plus she and I are sensitive in terms of our noses and she sneezes virtually every time a deisel vehicle passes by.. perhaps a slightly larger levoit or would you suggest the Winix A231 or perhaps another yet? I am based in Uk so it would need to be one obtainable there with relatively easy obtainable filters.
Many thanks
Hi Louise,
The Levoit Core Mini would be too small for your situation. The Winix A231, on the other hand, is much larger, has a higher CADR, and features better filtration technology.
I think that there’s nothing significantly better in this range that I would recommend.
Perhaps only the Levoit Vital 100S—mainly because of its washable pre-filter and a better carbon filter compared to the two mentioned. However, it might be too large for your 7m MOTORHOME.