The Levoit Core 400S and Core 300 are two of the best-selling Levoit air purifiers in the Core series. In this review, I will compare their performance metrics and specifications in detail and determine which is the better buying option.
It’s important to note that the Core 400S is a much larger and more powerful air purifier. It has a CADR of 260 CFM (442 m³/h), while the Levoit Core 300 has a CADR of 141 CFM (240 m³/h).
Regarding design and build quality, I have no objections to either, as they are good-quality devices. They both come with a 2-year warranty, require replacing filters approximately twice per year, and are affordable air purifiers.
Our Verdict
After analyzing all the tests, it is clear that the Levoit Core 400S is a much better option.
Perhaps the biggest difference between these two devices is in performance, where the Core 400S is several times more efficient. In addition, it has far more advanced features, works with the VeSync smart app, and is more efficient in both noise levels and power consumption.
All in all, the Core 400S is an excellent choice, and I’m sure that you will not go wrong with it.
If you have any questions regarding these two devices, feel free to leave a comment below the article.
Specs: Levoit Core 400S Vs Core 300
| Product Image |  17% off |  15% off |
| Manufacturer | Levoit | Levoit |
| Model | Core 400S | Core 300 |
| Dimensions (inches / cm) | 10.8 x 10.8 x 20.5 inches (27.4 x 27.4 x 52 cm) | 8.7 x 8.7 x 14.2 inches (22 x 22 x 36 cm) |
| Weight (pounds / kg) | 10.5 Ib (4.8 kg) | 7.5 lb (3.4kg) |
| Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) | 260 CFM (442 m³/h) | 141 CFM (240 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. | 403 sq. ft. (37 m²) | 219 sq. ft. (20 m²) |
| Performance Ratings Performance Ratings Score Summary: 8.3 - Average Score (102 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, True HEPA Filter, and Activated Carbon Filter | Pre-filter, True HEPA Filter, and Activated Carbon Filter |
| Filter Replacement Indicator | Yes | Yes |
| Filter Life | up to 12 months | 6-8 months |
| Power Consumption
Power Usage Summary: Our extensive testing of 102 air purifiers revealed the following power consumption insights:
Check out our power consumption calculator tool. | 38W (24W European Model) | 45W |
| Operating Costs Ratings Operating Costs Ratings Score Summary: 8.8 - Average Score (102 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, Low Mode, Medium Mode, High Mode, and Turbo Mode | 4 – Sleep Mode, Speed 1, Speed 2, and Speed 3 |
| Air Quality Sensor Air Quality Sensor Summary: Out of 102 air purifiers tested, only 51 have the air quality sensor. | Yes | No |
| Air Quality Indicator | Yes | No |
| Auto Mode Auto Mode Summary: Out of 102 air purifiers tested, only 52 have auto mode functionality. | Yes | No |
| Smart App Smart App Summary: Out of 102 air purifiers tested, only 30 have smart app functionality. | Yes | No |
| Voice Control Voice Control Summary: Out of 102 air purifiers tested, only 29 have voice control functionality. | Yes | No |
| Other Features | Display OffDisplay LockTimer | Display LockDisplay OffTimer |
| Noise Level (low – high) | 42.1 – 59.9 dBA | 40.7 – 64.9 dBA |
| Noise Ratings Noise Ratings Score Summary: 9.2 - Average Score (102 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 Kitchens Allergies Large Spaces Dust Smart Home Integration Air Quality Monitoring | Bedrooms Small Spaces Dust Allergies Children's Rooms |
| Warranty | 2-year | 2-year |
| In-Depth Review | Levoit Core 400S | Levoit Core 300 |
| Price |
Performance Test – Comparison
Perhaps the most powerful factor in this comparison is the filter size and CADR. Considering both factors, the Levoit Core 400S stands out as the better choice and the more powerful device.
The Core 400S covers rooms up to 403 sq. ft. (37 m²), while the Levoit Core 300 covers rooms up to 219 sq. ft. (20 m²).
We tested their airborne particle removal performance in rooms close to their recommended dimensions. The most notable test, however, was performed in a 320 sq. ft. (30 m²) room, where the Levoit Core 400S achieved significantly be
Particle Removal Tests - Comparison
We placed the Levoit Core 400S and Levoit Core 300 in two separate tests and measured their performance using the Temtop laser particle meter.
tter results. It improved air quality by approximately 96%, while the Core 300 improved it by approximately 92%.
We tested the Levoit Core 300 in a 194 sq. ft. (18 m²) room, where it improved air quality by approximately 93%, while the Core 400S improved air quality by approximately 91% in a 560 sq. ft. (52 m²) room.
Of all these tests, perhaps the most important is the PM1-to-zero test, in which we measure how long it takes a device to bring PM1 particles down to 0 in a 1,377 ft³ (39 m³) room.
As you can see in the chart above, the Levoit Core 300 needed 103 minutes to bring PM1 down to 0 on speed 1 (low), and 55 minutes on speed 3 (high), its highest setting.
On the other hand, the Core 400S is far more efficient. On speed 1 (low), it took 68 minutes, and on speed 4 (turbo), it took 35 minutes.
The difference is clear: the Levoit Core 400S is a much more efficient air purifier.
Smoke Box Test – Comparison
We tested both devices in our smoke box test, where we measure how long it takes a device at maximum speed to remove all smoke from a glass box.
The Levoit Core 400S took 15 seconds, while the Levoit Core 300 took 20 seconds.
Although there was no significant difference, the Core 400S once again delivered the better result.
Noise Level Test – Comparison
Turning to the noise test, the first thing to compare is the number of fan speeds. The Core 400S has five, while the Core 300 has four. The Core 400S also features an auto mode.
We tested both devices at all fan speeds. At the lowest speed (sleep mode), the Levoit Core 400S produces 42.1 dBA, while the Core 300 produces 40.7 dBA. However, at maximum speed, the Core 400S produces 59.9 dBA, while the Core 300 produces 64.9 dBA.
Noise Levels - Comparison
Comparison of noise levels at all fan speeds between the Levoit Core 400S and Levoit Core 300 air purifiers.
One further notable finding is that at speed 1, the Core 400S produces 43.6 dBA while the Core 300 produces 46.4 dBA, and in our performance test, the Core 400S brought PM1 particles down to 0 in 35 minutes faster. This means it’s quieter, better optimized, and more efficient at speed 1.
| Fan Speed | Levoit Core 300 (dBA) | Levoit Core 400S (dBA) |
|---|---|---|
| Sleep Mode | 40.7 dBA | 42.1 dBA |
| Speed 1 (Low) | 46.4 dBA | 43.6 dBA |
| Speed 2 (Medium) | 52.9 dBA | 47.8 dBA |
| Speed 3 (High) | 64.9 dBA | 55.4 dBA |
| Speed 4 (Turbo) | - | 59.9 dBA |
It is clear that the Levoit Core 400S is much better optimized in terms of noise tha
Operating Costs – Comparison
Despite their size difference, the motors tell a different story. The Levoit Core 400S is a bigger appliance, yet it runs on a 38W motor, while the Levoit Core 300 uses a 45W motor.
As a premium appliance, the Core 400S comes at a higher price, which is roughly double what you would pay for the Core 300.
Monthly Power Consumption Cost - Comparison
Comparison of monthly power consumption costs for the Levoit Core 400S and Levoit Core 300 air purifiers at all fan speeds.
As for filters, the Core 400S may appear to have the more expensive option, but its filter only needs replacing once a year, while the Core 300 might require more frequent replacement.
Additionally, running both devices at maximum speed for a full month, the Core 400S costs $3.06 in electricity, compared to $3.81 for the Core 300.
| Fan Speed | Levoit Core 300 (W + $/month) | Levoit Core 400S (W + $/month) |
|---|---|---|
| Standby | 0.8W ($0.07) | 0.9W ($0.07) |
| Sleep Mode | - | 3.3W ($0.28) |
| Speed 1 (Low) | 29.4W ($2.58) | 5.8W ($0.5) |
| Speed 2 (Medium) | 31.4W ($2.75) | 8.8W ($0.77) |
| Speed 3 (High) | 43.5W ($3.81) | 16.1W ($1.41) |
| Speed 4 (Turbo) | - | 35W ($3.06) |
All things considered, the Core 400S is the better value, given everything you get for the price.
Features Overview
Although it may seem as if these air purifiers have some basic features, those features are the ones that give great performances. Let’s check them out.
Air Quality Sensor and Air Quality Indicator
The Levoit Core 400S uses an AirSight Plus laser dust sensor, located at the rear part of the unit. The sensor detects real-time PM2.5 particles. You can check the information at any time, either through Display data or by using a Smart App. And, as long as you keep your air purifier plugged in, this sensor will keep running.
Unfortunately, the Core 300 version is missing out on this option.
Auto Mode
Having Auto Mode is a privilege of Levoit Core 400S only. This mode liberates you from deciding which speed mode fits you best at the moment. Once you turn it ON, it will adjust the operating mode and the speed level according to the real-time air quality. You can use it in three ways: as a standard, a silent, and an efficient auto mode.
Here is a fun fact: You can never use the Auto mode and the Turbo mode at the same time.
Sleep Mode
One of the features I find user-friendly is the Sleep mode. More so if it comes as a stand-alone speed level. Both Levoit products have this feature, and I have had the opportunity to use it for quite some time.
You can use Levoit Core 400S in your bedroom through the night, thanks to dimmed lights and no noise to disturb your sleep.
However, I consider that Levoit Core 300 has a better Sleep Mode. Thanks to the QuietKEAP technology, this air purifier is barely noticeable in your bedroom. Also, thanks to the Display-off function, you can completely darken your room.
Filter Reset Indicator
With the Filter Reset Indicator installed, you will have one less thing to worry about because it will light up as soon as the filter needs a replacement. Both Core 300 and Core 400S have this feature, with a slight plus in favor of the Core 400S, that allows you to monitor the filter wear through the VeSync App at the same time.
Smart App (VeSync)
In today’s comparison, only the Levoit Core 400S is entitled to this feature. You can use the VeSync App regardless of whether you have an Android or an iOS device.
Once you install it, you will be able to control your air purifier completely in a way that improves and upgrades its functionality.
Screen off / Display Off
Even though it seems as if it is the same feature, there are still some differences. Screen off is the Core 400S option that, once ON, dims all the indicators on this air purifier. This way, the air purifier is safe to use in the bedroom during the night.
On the other hand, the display-off feature that the Core 300 has ensures a complete blackout of the display. None of the lights will be present if you decide to put this device in your bedroom.
Lock Screen / Display Lock
The producer may call it Lock Screen or Display Lock, but evidently, they are one and the same thing. By pressing the button for 3 seconds only, the air purifier will lock all of its functions, except for the power button and display light button in Core 300. The same thing goes if you want to unlock it. The Core 400S model has a bit of an advantage considering you can control this option through the Smart app, too.
Timer
Having a Timer as a feature can always be of great help. Especially in times when we get preoccupied with day-to-day tasks.
Levoit Core 300 lets you set this option at 2h, 4h, 6h, or 8h of continuous purifying. However, Levoit Core 400S allows you even more flexibility by choosing between 1-12h. You can do this via Display or the VeSync app.
Airflow
Since both air purifiers have a cylindrical shape, their filters are equally shaped. The same goes for the airflow. The air inlets are spread all over the bottom part of both appliances. Once the air gets into the air purifier, it runs through the filters and releases through the grills on the upper side.
Warranty
As a company, Levoit will provide you with a 2-year warranty for its products, but under certain conditions. If you decide to purchase the Levoit Core 300, you will get a one-year warranty, with an option to prolong for one more year if you register on the Levoit website within 14 days after the day you purchased it.
As for the Levoit Core 400S, you will have to register your device straight after purchase if you want to be covered by the warranty. The good thing is you can do it via their website and also through the VeSync Smart App. That way you will be covered with the 2-year warranty.
Filtration Technology
Regarding filtration technology, the Levoit Core 400S and Levoit Core 300 have the same filters, only differently arranged.
While the Levoit Core 400S has only a standard 3-in-1 filter combination, the Levoit Core 300 has additional filter packages available.
The standard combo that never fails is a pre-filter, True HEPA, and an activated carbon filter. A pre-filter is a kind of shield that protects the True HEPA filter from the large particles to which we are exposed daily. I am referring to dust, lint, pet hair dander, fibers, etc. The True HEPA filter is in charge of at least 99.97% of the finest airborne particles, which is why it always gives outstanding results. The latest carbon filter is used to neutralize odors from your home or working area.
Now, the additional filters available only for Core 300 are pet allergy, toxin absorber, and mold bacteria filters. Find detailed description in Levoit Core 300 individual review.
How To Replace Filters On These Devices?
Replacing the filter within your air purifier is not as difficult as it may seem. On that path, a good ally is always welcome. By allies, I mean the filter reset indicator. Both Core 400S and Core 300 have this feature, so rest assured you will get notified right on time.
With Levoit Core 400S, there is a simple procedure. Since filters are united in one piece, all you have to do is put out the old filter and replace it with the new one. Good vacuuming along the way would be nice to do. It will take about 12 months before you’ll need to do the replacement.
Levoit Core 300 has the same procedure but with a shorter expiration date. The filter within this air purifier tends to last between 6 and 8 months before the indicator lights up.
Has your view of these changed now that their TrueHEPA claims have been publicly debunked by Dyson? I have the 300S and not sure how I feel about it.
Yes, I saw that case. Honestly, I was surprised and didn’t expect a brand like Levoit to allow something like this to happen.
However, from another perspective, Levoit, which has sold several million devices, is a major competitor to Dyson. In my opinion, it’s normal for competitors to sue each other and fight in every possible way to win more potential customers.
I don’t favor the fact that Levoit manipulated customers, but honestly, it doesn’t change the fact that the filtration in the Levoit air purifiers I’ve tested is of very high quality and that they are some of the best devices on the market.
What concerns me more is the fact that some other brands, particularly Chinese or some no-name brands, can write whatever they want in the product description, and it might go unnoticed. I plan to touch on this in the future and will dedicate more time to researching the filtration technology of less popular air purifiers.
In any case, this is a very good question; thank you!
If you have any more questions, don’t hesitate to ask. Regards!
Is there a big difference between 92 percent and 96 percent filtration? it sounds like the core 300 can be sufficent in a 320 square foot space as well. I am looking at the lower cost of buying the core 300 compared to the 400s. If i just run it longer, will the result be the same as the 400s?
Also, can you put the core 300 on sleep mode the entire time to reduce noise? will that still be efficent in purifying a 120 square foot room?
It all depends on how quickly your room is becoming dirty or polluted. If your room is constantly getting polluted – say, from cigarette smoke, cooking smoke, or the like – then I would suggest going with a more powerful air purifier.
However, for a room of 120 sq. ft., the Core 300 would be more than good, even when it’s running in sleep mode.
The reason I’m shopping for a levoit is for mold absorption from the air. Is there info which model is more efficient for mold?
Any model with a True HEPA filter will remove airborne mold spores. I suggest choosing the one that best fits your room size.
Question— can I leave the Levoit 400 running continuously even if I am not home for a few days ?
Of course, you can!
However, I suggest connecting it with the VeSync smart app and then turning it on via the app a few hours/sometime before you get back home.