Have you ever wondered what makes the Winix 5500-2 and Levoit Core 400S top-notch air purifiers? The answer is simple: high-quality filtration technology, reliability, and plenty of advanced features.
I must admit I enjoy comparing best-in-class air purifiers, mainly because these are tough matchups where the nuances decide the winner.
The Levoit offers plenty of features, including an air quality sensor that detects dust particles in real-time, auto mode, and a smart app. The Winix also has many features, but its air quality sensor detects only odors and lacks smart app connectivity.
The Levoit Core 400S covers rooms up to 403 sq. ft. (37 m²), while the Winix 5500-2 covers slightly smaller rooms up to 360 sq. ft. (33 m²).
Both air purifiers use high-quality filters, which undoubtedly contribute to their exceptional performance test results.
Regarding design, I give a slight advantage to the Levoit because it looks more stylish and modern than the Winix. The build quality and plastic quality are solid on both devices.
Our Verdict
As I mentioned earlier in the intro, this is a tough battle in which nuances decide the winner. But, before announcing the winner, I would highlight that whichever air purifier you choose, you won’t make a mistake.
However, as a better buying option and an absolute recommendation, I pick the Levoit Core 400S air purifier. The reason for this decision is that the Levoit has so many advanced options, a smart app option, an air quality sensor that detects dust particles in real-time, and more affordable maintenance.
When comparing all other parameters, I can say that these devices are almost equal.
If you have any questions regarding the Winix 5500-2 or the Levoit Core 400S, don’t hesitate to leave a comment in the comment box below the article.
Specs: Levoit Core 400S Vs Winix 5500-2
| Product Image |  17% off |  |
| Manufacturer | Levoit | Winix |
| Model | Core 400S | 5500-2 |
| Dimensions (inches / cm) | 10.8 x 10.8 x 20.5 inches (27.4 x 27.4 x 52 cm) | 15 x 8.2 x 23.6 inches (38.1 x 20.8 x 59.9 cm) |
| Weight (pounds / kg) | 10.5 Ib (4.8 kg) | 15.4 lb (7 kg) |
| Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) | 260 CFM (442 m³/h) | 232 CFM (394 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) | 360 sq. ft. (33 m²) |
| Performance Ratings Performance Ratings Score Summary: 8.3 - Average Score (97 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 | Washable Pre-filter, Washable AOC Carbon Filter, and True HEPA Filter |
| Filter Replacement Indicator | Yes | Yes |
| Filter Life | up to 12 months | up to 12 months |
| Power Consumption
Power Usage Summary: Our extensive testing of 97 air purifiers revealed the following power consumption insights:
Check out our power consumption calculator tool. | 38W (24W European Model) | 70W |
| Operating Costs Ratings Operating Costs Ratings Score Summary: 8.8 - Average Score (97 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 | 5 – Sleep Mode, Speed 1, Speed 2, Speed 3, and Turbo Mode |
| Air Quality Sensor Air Quality Sensor Summary: Out of 97 air purifiers tested, only 49 have the air quality sensor. | Yes | Yes |
| Air Quality Indicator | Yes | Yes |
| Auto Mode Auto Mode Summary: Out of 97 air purifiers tested, only 50 have auto mode functionality. | Yes | Yes |
| Smart App Smart App Summary: Out of 97 air purifiers tested, only 28 have smart app functionality. | Yes | No |
| Voice Control Voice Control Summary: Out of 97 air purifiers tested, only 27 have voice control functionality. | Yes | No |
| Other Features | Display OffDisplay LockTimer | PlasmaWaveLight SensorRemoteTimer |
| Noise Level (low – high) | 42.1 – 59.9 dBA | 40.6 – 66.4 dBA |
| Noise Ratings Noise Ratings Score Summary: 9.2 - Average Score (97 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 | Pets Living Rooms Kitchens Allergies Smoke Dust Neutralizing VOCs |
| Warranty | 2-year | 2-year |
| In-Depth Review | Levoit Core 400S | Winix 5500-2 |
| Price |
Performance Test – Comparison
According to their room coverage, we tested these two air purifiers in rooms of different sizes.
They worked at maximum speeds for 60 minutes, and we used the Temtop laser particle meter to measure the air quality improvement.
In a room of 320 sq. ft. (30 m²), they both achieved fantastic results by improving air quality by an amazing 96%.
Particle Removal Tests - Comparison
We placed the Winix 5500-2 and Levoit Core 400S in two separate tests and measured their performance using the Temtop laser particle meter.
Additionally, we tested the Levoit Core 400S in a 560 sq. ft. (52 m²) room, in which it improved air quality by 91%, which is also a perfect outcome.
Unfortunately, I haven’t tested the Winix 5500-2 in a 560 sq. ft. (52 m²) room, so I’m not able to compare the performance in this room as well.
When speaking of bad odor neutralization, I would give a slight edge to the Winix 5500-2, which has a much better carbon filter that is pellet-based.
Smoke Box Test – Comparison
We placed these two devices in our smoke removal test, in which we measured how much time was needed for an air purifier to remove all the smoke from a glass box filled with smoke.
The Levoit Core 400S needed just 15 seconds to remove all the smoke, while the Winix 5500-2 needed 20 seconds to remove all the smoke.
Although the Winix needed slightly more time to remove all the smoke in this test, I would still declare it the better option for odor neutralization, especially after using both devices for some time in my place.
Noise Level Test – Comparison
We’ve come to the most interesting part of this comparison. There is always something about speed, even if it’s only an air purifier. Both the Levoit Core 400S and Winix 5500-2 have five fan speeds, including Sleep Mode.
Speaking of sleep mode, the Levoit is super quiet while operating at this level. However, the Winix is even more silent, with only 40.6 dBA. The Levoit produces 42.1 dBA at the lowest speed.
Noise Levels - Comparison
Comparison of noise levels at all fan speeds between the Winix 5500-2 and Levoit Core 400S air purifiers.
As for the maximum speed, things start to change in favor of the Levoit Core 400S. It produces a sound of only 59.9 dBA, while the Winix 5500-2 produces 66.4 dBA.
| Fan Speed | Winix 5500-2 (dBA) | Levoit Core 400S (dBA) |
|---|---|---|
| Sleep Mode | 40.6 dBA | 42.1 dBA |
| Speed 1 (Low) | 42.7 dBA | 43.6 dBA |
| Speed 2 (Medium) | 44.9 dBA | 47.8 dBA |
| Speed 3 (High) | 50.3 dBA | 55.4 dBA |
| Speed 4 (Turbo) | 66.4 dBA | 59.9 dBA |
Overall, comparing both air purifiers, I would say that the Levoit Core 400S is better optimized for noise.
Operating Costs – Comparison
First of all, we have two amazing air purifiers, and it would be silly to expect them to be super cheap.
However, the initial product price isn’t as important as the overall maintenance cost in this case. To start with, the filter replacement rate is once per year. But replacing the filter in the Winix is far more expensive than in the Levoit.
Second comes the monthly electricity cost. Compared to the 38W motor that the Levoit Core 400S has, the Winix has doubled it to 70W.
Monthly Power Consumption Cost - Comparison
Comparison of monthly power consumption costs for the Winix 5500-2 and Levoit Core 400S air purifiers at all fan speeds.
That means if you leave both air purifiers running at maximum speed for a whole month, day and night, the Winix will give you a $5.08 bill, while the Levoit will give you only $3.06.
| Fan Speed | Winix 5500-2 (W + $/month) | Levoit Core 400S (W + $/month) |
|---|---|---|
| Standby | 1.2W ($0.11) | 0.9W ($0.07) |
| Sleep Mode | 3.7W ($0.32) | 3.3W ($0.28) |
| Speed 1 (Low) | 6.4W ($0.56) | 5.8W ($0.5) |
| Speed 2 (Medium) | 8.8W ($0.77) | 8.8W ($0.77) |
| Speed 3 (High) | 13.2W ($1.16) | 16.1W ($1.41) |
| Speed 4 (Turbo) | 57.9W ($5.08) | 35W ($3.06) |
At the end of it all, I find that the Winix is far more expensive to maintain. The Levoit’s costs are reasonably lower.
Features Overview
Both appliances are highly qualified for a throne in this comparison, equipped with plenty of advanced features. So, without further ado, I suggest we start comparing them one by one.
Air Quality Sensor
Located at the rear part of the Levoit Core 400S, AirSight Plus is a laser dust sensor that detects real-time PM2.5 particles. You can check this information at any moment, either through data displayed on the panel or by using a Smart App. And, as long as you keep your air purifier plugged in, this sensor will keep running.
Contrary to Levoit, Winix 5500-2 has an air quality sensor restricted only to odors. This means it cannot detect general particles, such as dust, pollen, or so. Strictly odors. For this reason, I recommend this air purifier mainly to customers who are active smokers or like to spend a lot of time in the kitchen. Winix can handle it.
Air Quality Indicator
Relying on the sensor an air quality indicator will light up according to the real-time pollution. Levoit’s indicator can switch colors between Blue-Green-Orange-Red to let you know the current situation. On the other hand, the indicator within Winix has only three colors: Blue, Amber fair, and Red.
In both cases, the higher the pollution, the indicator color will get closer to the Red.
Auto Mode
Many air purifiers do not have the Auto mode feature, but Levoit Core 400S and Winix 5500-2 do. Combined with the Air quality sensor, you get an air purifier you can lean on.
What Winix air purifier has is a bit restricting Auto mode that relies on an Air quality sensor. But since sensors can only detect odor particles, this feature will suit you best if you like to spend a lot of time in the kitchen or if you are a smoker.
Nevertheless, in both air purifiers, the air quality sensor will make the air purifier switch between speeds while running in Auto mode.
Sleep Mode
Having a Sleep Mode option can be of great aid, for users who like to keep the air purifier working during the nighttime. Good thing both of today’s air purifiers have this feature, and in both cases, this Mode is separate from other fan speeds.
I’m going to start by saying a big WOW to the Sleep Mode that Winix 5500-2 owns. Incredibly silent, with barely-there lighting indicators, this Mode will make sure nothing gets in the way of your sleep.
Compared to Winix, Levoit 400S has a bit less silent Sleep Mode, but not in an annoying kind of way. You can leave it running day/night, and you will be pleased with it.
Night Mode
The Night Mode is a bit of an add-on to a Sleep Mode of Winix 5500-2. If you set the air purifier to Auto mode, the appliance will switch to a super-sensitive machine that detects the level of light in the room. It means that in case the room is very obscure in light or completely dark, the Auto mode will switch the Winix air purifier into Sleep mode. This will make the appliance more than adequate for your sleep.
Plasma Wave
If you take a closer look at the Control panel of Winix 5500-2, you will see a Plasma Wave indicator. Plasma Wave stands for technology used in the air purifying process. Once you turn this option ON all harmful particles will be continuously removed.
Once it is activated, the indicator will light up. No worry for those of you ozone concerned, because Winix is CARB certified, which means the amount of emitted ozone is below the danger line.
Timer
Both Levoit and Winix have a Timer option. If you want the Core 400S to run without interruptions, you can set it within the 12h-range. You can monitor this feature by using either the panel button or the App. At the same time, Winix 5500-2 allows you to choose between 1h, 4h, or 8 hours of continuous running. You should try it.
Smart App (VeSync)
A great deal for most products nowadays is a Smart App connection. One of those products is the Levoit Core 400S. The VeSync App is the Smart app you can use to control this air purifier in a way to monitor all the features and functions this device has installed by default.
Even though Winix is a great air purifier, it’s still missing this option.
Remote control
Yes, I know, having another remote control on your living room table will probably seem like piling unnecessary things, but this is quite a helpful gadget. If you buy Winix 5500-2, the remote control comes along. It is small, simple, and easy to navigate, and the best thing is you can use it to control almost every single feature on your air purifier.
There is no remote control for the Core 400S, but hey, you can use the VeSync App instead.
Screen Off
The Screen off option is available only in Levoit Core 400S, and it’s a great feature if you wish to use your air purifier in your bedroom during the nighttime. Once the Screen Off option is ON, this feature will dim all the lights and indicators on your appliance. All except the filter reset indicator.
Lock Screen
The Lock Screen is a protective option, meaning it takes a 3-second finger press to lock/unlock this feature. Once locked, nothing can get in the way of your air purifier. Even if some noisy guest tries to interfere, nothing will happen. The good thing is even if you lock your air purifier, you can still control and use it through the VeSync App.
Filter Reset Indicator
One of the most advantageous features an air purifier could have is definitely a filter reset indicator. It releases you from the duty of predicting whether and when you should replace the filter in your new favorite device.
Levoit Core 400S has this indicator built-in, and you can completely rely on it to alert you in due time to replace the True HEPA filter. It usually takes 12 months before replacement.
Winix 5500-2 also has this feature that alerts for both True HEPA and AOC Carbon filters. The replacement takes place once a year.
Airflow
At first sight, the shape difference between Levoit Core 400S and Winix 5500-2 is more than obvious. While Levoit is cylindrical, Winix is more rectangular in shape. Within Levoit, filters follow the shape of an air purifier, hollow in the middle. The air inlets are spread all around the air purifier on the bottom side of the unit.
Once the air runs through the filters, it gets out through the grills on top. Winix, on the other hand, has air inlets on the front side, but on both sides as well. After the air is purified, it gets spread through the holes on the upper side of the air purifier.
Warranty
Since both Levoit and Winix are well-known and respectful brands, warranty coverage is available for 2 years within the purchase date. There are no specific conditions regarding claiming your customer rights from Winix. With Levoit you will be way more efficient if you register on their website after you purchase the product.
Filtration Technology
Filters that both Levoit Core 400S and Winix 5500-2 use are quite similar, with the exception that Winix has an extra fourth filter stage.
The Levoit has a basic 3-in-1 filtration process: Pre-filter, True HEPA, and an Activated Carbon Filter. On the other hand, Winix has a Pre-filter, AOC Carbon filter, True HEPA, and PlasmaWave technology. Let’s go from the start.
Standing on the first line of defense, a pre-filter is an important part of the filtration system. It serves to protect, mainly the second-in-line filter, from all the large particles such as dust, hair, pet dander, etc. Since only Winix has a washable pre-filter, it is highly recommended that you keep it clean by dusting or vacuuming at least twice a month. Preferably, every two weeks. That way you will protect and prolong the life of the following filters.
AOC Carbon filter is available only within the Winix 5500-2 air purifier as its second filtration stage. The good thing is this filter is a pellet-based carbon filter, the number one culprit for outstanding Winix performances in reducing home odors. And the best thing is, it is washable. As for the Levoit, the Activated carbon filter comes as the third and last filtration stage. Being also pellet-based this filter uses Levoit’s exclusive ARC formula, which adsorbs smoke, odors, and fumes but also unpleasant pet smells.
In my opinion, if you want a good air purifier, make sure it has a True HEPA filter. Both Levoit Core 400S and Winix 5500-2 have this filter, only as different filtration stages. While Levoit uses the True HEPA filter as its core and second stage, Winix has placed it in third place. This filter is responsible for 99.97% of removed airborne particles.
As for the fourth stage, Winix uses PlasmaWave technology, which I have written about in one of the previous sections, so jump over to see what is it about.
How To Replace Filters On Both These Devices?
No matter how difficult it may seem, replacing the filters in most air purifiers is a pretty much simple task.
With Winix 5500-2 all you have to do is to disassemble the air purifier the same way you assembled it after you purchased it. Good vacuuming is always recommended in maintaining the pre-filter, and this stands for all air purifiers. As for the AOC carbon filter and the True HEPA filter, you can easily replace them with new ones, approximately once a year. Maybe even more often, if you really use it.
Replacing Levoit’s filters is an easy job to do since all you have to do is take out the filter tube and replace it with the new original one – the RF filter. It takes about 12 months before you need to do this, but don’t worry. The filter reset indicator will help you on the way, as well as with the Winix air purifier.
In case you still need instructions, you can find them in separate reviews.
Hi,
Thank you for all the review that is super super helpful. I have the same issue.
I have a similar problem, I suspect my neighbours smoke in the bathroom and we share a dry wall. I said I m not sure because the smell of smoke went away in the past month but the PM2.5 still spike at night when they are home .
It’s in my Kid’s room and bathroom 😭. Our Winix sensor can’t detect it but the PM2.5 and 10 Went up to 30-100 at night. Would you recommend levoit 400 or 600?
I recommend the Core 600S as it’s a more powerful device that will clean the air much faster.
Hi Milan,
I stumbled into your website as I am torn between Levoit 400s and Winnix Zero 360. I was leaning toward Levoit 400s, also with the same reason you pointed out: smart app, smart sensor. Now Winix Zero 360 also have that feature. I don’t know which one to choose. I’m from Jakarta so, options are quite limited.
Hi Rika,
I’m sure you will be satisfied with whichever you choose!
Hi Milan, thank you so much for your thorough and helpful review. Which in your opinion would be the best air purifier for wildfire smoke?
Thanks so much for your time!
Jennifer
Hi Jennifer,
I believe you are one of many facing wildfire issues these days. I’m truly sorry, and I hope this mess will be gone soon.
Regarding your situation, I recommend the Winix 5500-2 as it has a better carbon filter. Anyway, both options will do an excellent job of neutralizing wildfire smoke.
Please feel free to ask if you have more questions.
Great reviews and very accurate information! As an owner of the Winix 5500-2 in Canada, I compared replacement filter costs on Amazon for both machines. Today I found that replacement filters for Winix 5500-2 (activated carbon pellets 1filter and HEPA for 2nd filter) The 2 filters are sold together on Amazon today for CAN.33.99! The replacement for the filter cylinder for the Levoit Core 400S is CAN 85.99 on Amazon today…this includes HEPA, carbon, refilter all together. Assuming filter replacement for both units at once a year…clearly the Winix is more affordable to maintain. Your pricing on the filters seem inaccurate
Hi Jed,
You are partially correct, but the CAN 33.99 filters are not genuine and come from third-party sellers. That’s the difference. There are also cheaper filters for the Core 400S, but these are from third-party sellers as well.
I recommend using only original filters; however, this doesn’t mean that third-party filters are necessarily bad.
Hi! Which one is better for removing odors from home? My condo has poor ventilation so when I cook, it makes the whole places smell like whatever it is that I prepared. I have the Winix currently and I run it as I am cooking, but I still feel like the place smells like food. Also, which do you think is better to safeguard against cigarette/cigar smell? My next door neighbors are heavy smokers and sometimes it wafts into my unit.
Hi Tori.
The Winix 5500-2 is definitely better for odor, but you must know that the activated carbon filter has its limits, so if your place is extremely heavily polluted, then you will need to replace the filter more often. Apart from that, I suggest washing the Winix 5500-2’s carbon filter, as it is washable.
Hope this will help!
Please be kind and share your feedback after washing the carbon filter.
Hello! Does the Levoit work with the smell of a fireplace?
Greetings from Greece!
Hi Maria.
Yes, it does work!
Hello Milano,
I’d like to ask for your advice. I’m torn between choosing the Levoit Core 400S or Core 600S vs Winnix Zero Pro. I’m from S.E Asia, so the Winnix 5500-2 is not available here. Between the three above, which one I should choose? I have 3 cats, so i really want to ensure that I have a fresh air circulated sans the fleeting furs and the foul odors. Winnix product has the PlasmaWave feature that other competitor dont have. What do you thing regarding this, is this PlasmaWave technology that important or we can just omit that? What is your best advice?
I don’t think the PlasmaWave is a crucial feature, and I think an air purifier doesn’t need to have it. For your specific query, I would choose the Winix Zero Pro as it has a washable pre-filter, which is extremely practical for your situation (having three cats).
The next choice would be the Levoit Core 400S, which won over the Winix 5500-2 in my comparison and is the best equivalent to the mentioned Winix.
Hello Milano,
Congratulations on your superb website, it is really complete and very useful. You say the Levolt 400s is less expensive to maintain than the Winix5500-2 but since the Winix pre-filter and carbon filter are washable, the Winix should be less expensive to maintain. is not it?
I search a purifier for humidity odor. What is your recommendation between Levolt and Winix?
Thank you Milan
Hi Richard,
Thanks for your kind words!
Yes, you are right, the Winix 5500-2 pre-filter and activated carbon filter are washable. But, even though the carbon filter is washable, you need to replace it approximately every 12 months. What’s more, the replacement filters for Winix are more expensive than for the Levoit. Additionally, the Winix is a huger power consumer than the Levoit.
Hope this helps!
Our nextdoor neighbor (we live in a condo) smokes cigarettes inside his unit. In the summer when it’s hot and more humid, the smell of stale cigarettes wafts into our unit. Which of these would you recommend to help with the odor and hopefully removing dangerous particles? (I already have a Coway Mighty, and it is great but doesn’t quite get all the odor out). Thanks!
I would go with the Winix 5500-2, as it has a pellet-based carbon filter, which is also washable. It will definitely do a better job than the Coway, which has a fibrous filter coated with carbon (less efficient than a pellet-based one).