This time, I will compare the large Blueair 311i Max with one of the best air purifiers I’ve tested, the Winix 5510.
Both models are designed for large rooms. The Blueair 311i Max is suitable for spaces of up to 387 sq. ft. (36 m²), while the Winix 5510 is rated for rooms of up to 392 sq. ft. (36 m²).
In rooms of their recommended size, both devices can clean the air 4.8 times per hour.
When it comes to filtration, both air purifiers use a classic three-stage filtration system. In addition, the Blueair includes an ionizer, while the Winix features PlasmaWave technology.
Both devices have smart features, work with a smart app, and offer plenty of advanced options.
Our Verdict
Based on all the specifications and test results, I would pick the Winix 5510 as the winner of this comparison.
It delivered slightly better performance in our tests, especially in odor removal. It also uses a better-optimized motor for lower noise, offers plenty of smart features, has an easy-to-clean pre-filter, and uses a True HEPA filter.
However, if you decide to go with the Blueair 311i Max for any reason, you won’t be making a wrong choice, as it is also a very capable air purifier.
If you have any questions about these two models, feel free to ask in the comments section below the article.
Specs: Blueair 311i Max Vs Winix 5510
| Product Image |  27% off |  |
| Manufacturer | Blueair | Winix |
| Model | 311i Max | 5510 |
| Dimensions (inches / cm) | 19 x 12.5 x 12.5 inches (48 x 32 x 32 cm) | 13.6 x 8.3 x 22.2 inches (34.6 x 21.1 x 56.4 cm) |
| Weight (pounds / kg) | 7.8 lb (3.56 kg) | 13.3 lb (6 kg) |
| Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) | 250 CFM (425 m³/h) | 253 CFM (430 m³/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. | 387 sq. ft. (36 m²) | 392 sq. ft. (36 m²) |
| Performance Ratings Performance Ratings Score Summary: 8.3 - Average Score (99 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 | Washable Pre-filter, Particle Filter, Activated Carbon Filter, and HEPASilent | Pre-filter, Activated Carbon Filter, True HEPA Filter, and PlasmaWave |
| Filter Replacement Indicator | Yes | Yes |
| Filter Life | 6-9 months | up to 12 months |
| Power Consumption
Power Usage Summary: Our extensive testing of 99 air purifiers revealed the following power consumption insights:
Check out our power consumption calculator tool. | 30W | 65W |
| Operating Costs Ratings Operating Costs Ratings Score Summary: 8.8 - Average Score (99 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 | 4 - Sleep Mode, Speed 1, Speed 2, and Speed 3 | 5 - Sleep Mode, Speed 1, Speed 2, Speed 3, and Speed 4 |
| Air Quality Sensor Air Quality Sensor Summary: Out of 99 air purifiers tested, only 49 have the air quality sensor. | Yes | Yes |
| Air Quality Indicator | Yes | Yes |
| Auto Mode Auto Mode Summary: Out of 99 air purifiers tested, only 50 have auto mode functionality. | Yes | Yes |
| Smart App Smart App Summary: Out of 99 air purifiers tested, only 29 have smart app functionality. | Yes | Yes |
| Voice Control Voice Control Summary: Out of 99 air purifiers tested, only 28 have voice control functionality. | Yes | Yes |
| Other Features | Washable Pre-filter | PlasmaWaveLight Sensor |
| Noise Level (low – high) | 40.2 – 59.5 dBA | 40.2 – 65.7 dBA |
| Noise Ratings Noise Ratings Score Summary: 9.2 - Average Score (99 products) 10 - Best Score (1 products) 7.6 - 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 | Living Rooms Offices Low Energy Cost Large Spaces Dust Quiet Operation | Pets Living Rooms Kitchens Allergies Smoke Dust Neutralizing VOCs |
| Warranty | 3-year | 2-year |
| In-Depth Review | Blueair 311i Max | Winix 5510 |
| Price |
Performance Test – Comparison
We tested the airborne particle removal performance of these two air purifiers using a Temtop laser particle meter.
Both devices were placed in a 320 sq. ft. (30 m²) room, where we measured how quickly they improved air quality over a 60-minute period while operating at maximum speed.
Particle Removal Tests - Comparison
We placed the Blueair 311i Max and Winix 5510 in two separate tests and measured their performance using the Temtop laser particle meter.
Interestingly, both air purifiers improved air quality by 96%, which is an outstanding result.
However, when it comes to odor neutralization, the Winix 5510 delivered slightly better results, which I believe is due to its pellet-based carbon filter. The Blueair, in comparison, uses a fibrous filter coated with activated carbon.
Overall, both air purifiers achieved excellent results in airborne particle removal and performed almost identically.
Noise Level Test – Comparison
The first aspect to compare when it comes to noise is the number of fan speeds. The Blueair 311i Max has four fan speeds, while the Winix 5510 has five. Both models also include an auto mode.
At their lowest speeds, both air purifiers produce just 40.2 dBA, which is very quiet.
Noise Levels - Comparison
Comparison of noise levels at all fan speeds between the Blueair 311i Max and Winix 5510 air purifiers.
At maximum speed, however, the Blueair 311i Max reaches 59.5 dBA, while the Winix 5510 produces 65.7 dBA.
Although the Blueair 311i Max is in theory better optimized for noise in terms of measured dBA, it produces an unusual buzzing sound at maximum speed, which can be quite annoying.
| Fan Speed | Blueair 311i Max (dBA) | Winix 5510 (dBA) |
|---|---|---|
| Sleep Mode | 40.2 dBA | 40.2 dBA |
| Speed 1 (Low) | 42.5 dBA | 41.5 dBA |
| Speed 2 (Medium) | 48.9 dBA | 43.2 dBA |
| Speed 3 (High) | 59.5 dBA | 52.7 dBA |
| Speed 4 (Turbo) | - | 65.7 dBA |
Because of that, I consider the Winix 5510 to be the better option overall when it comes to noise performance.
Operating Costs – Comparison
When it comes to power consumption, the Blueair 311i Max uses a 30W motor, while the Winix 5510 is equipped with a more powerful 65W motor.
If both air purifiers were used at their maximum speeds for 24 hours a day over the course of one month, your electricity bill would increase by approximately $4.68 with the Winix and about $2.42 with the Blueair.
Monthly Power Consumption Cost - Comparison
Comparison of monthly power consumption costs for the Blueair 311i Max and Winix 5510 air purifiers at all fan speeds.
In addition, there is the cost of replacement filters, which need to be changed more frequently on the Blueair.
| Fan Speed | Blueair 311i Max (W + $/month) | Winix 5510 (W + $/month) |
|---|---|---|
| Standby | 0.4W ($0.04) | 1.1W ($0.01) |
| Sleep Mode | 3.3W ($0.29) | 3.7W ($0.32) |
| Speed 1 (Low) | 4.8W ($0.42) | 4.1W ($0.36) |
| Speed 2 (Medium) | 12.7W ($1.11) | 7.2W ($0.63) |
| Speed 3 (High) | 27.6W ($2.42) | 16.3W ($1.43) |
| Speed 4 (Turbo) | - | 53.4W ($4.68) |
Taking all costs into account, including replacement filter prices, filter longevity, and the availability of third-party filters, I would say that the Blueair 311i Max is slightly more affordable in terms of annual maintenance.
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