The Levoit LV-H128 and GermGuardian AC4200W are two compact air purifiers, ideal for office desks, small bedrooms, or other smaller spaces.
The Levoit covers rooms up to 64 sq. ft. (6 m²), while the GermGuardian is suitable for slightly larger rooms of up to 105 sq. ft. (10 m²).
The GermGuardian uses a 2-stage filtration system, whereas the Levoit features a 3-stage filtration. The biggest difference between these two devices, aside from their filtration technology, is that the Levoit can be used with essential oils.
In terms of build quality, both devices are made from high-quality plastic. However, the Levoit has a more charming design, making it easier to fit into almost any home decor.
In this article, I will provide a detailed comparison of the GermGuardian AC4200W and Levoit LV-H128 air purifiers. I’ll evaluate their performance, operating costs, noise levels, specifications, and other features—and, of course, I will pick a winner.
Our Verdict
I must admit, I was in a dilemma for quite some time about which device to choose as the better option. The reason is that while the GermGuardian performed slightly better in performance tests, the Levoit outshined it in all other categories.
However, since performance and efficiency are the most important factors in an air purifier, I’m declaring the GermGuardian AC4200W the winner of this comparison.
If you have any questions about these two devices, feel free to leave a comment in the comment box below the article.
Specs: Levoit LV-H128 Vs GermGuardian AC4200W
| Product Image |  |  |
| Manufacturer | Levoit | GermGuardian |
| Model | LV-H128 | AC4200W |
| Dimensions (inches / cm) | 6.7 x 6.7 x 10.4 inches (17 x 17 x 26.5 cm) | 10.5 x 10.75 x 15.5 inches (26.7 x 27.3 x 39.4 cm) |
| Weight (pounds / kg) | 3.3 lb (1.5 kg) | 6.55 lb (3 kg) |
| Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) | 41 CFM (70 m³/h) | 68 CFM (115 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. | 64 sq. ft. (6 m²) | 105 sq. ft. (10 m²) |
| Performance Ratings Performance Ratings Score Summary: 8.4 - Average Score (79 products) 9.8 - Best Score (2 products) 2.5 - Worst Score (2 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 and True HEPA Filter | Carbon/Pre-filter Combination and True HEPA Filter |
| Filter Replacement Indicator | Yes | Yes |
| Filter Life | 6-8 months | up to 6 months |
| Power Consumption
Power Usage Summary: Our extensive testing of 79 air purifiers revealed the following power consumption insights:
Check out our power consumption calculator tool. | 6W | 26W |
| Operating Costs Ratings Operating Costs Ratings Score Summary: 9 - Average Score (79 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 | 3 – Sleep Mode, Low Mode, and High Mode | 4 – Speed 1, Speed 2, Speed 3, and Speed 4 |
| Air Quality Sensor Air Quality Sensor Summary: Out of 79 air purifiers tested, only 39 have the air quality sensor. | No | No |
| Air Quality Indicator | No | No |
| Auto Mode Auto Mode Summary: Out of 79 air purifiers tested, only 40 have auto mode functionality. | No | No |
| Smart App Smart App Summary: Out of 79 air purifiers tested, only 25 have smart app functionality. | No | No |
| Voice Control Voice Control Summary: Out of 79 air purifiers tested, only 24 have voice control functionality. | No | No |
| Other Features | Aroma Pad | Timer |
| Noise Level (low – high) | 42.4 – 49.3 dBA | 49.3 – 63.1 dBA |
| Noise Ratings Noise Ratings Score Summary: 9.3 - Average Score (79 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 | Low Energy Cost Portable Use Quiet Operation | Small Spaces |
| Warranty | 2-year | 3-year |
| In-Depth Review | Levoit LV-H128 | GermGuardian AC4200W |
| Price | Check Price on Amazon | Check Price on Amazon |
Performance Test – Comparison
When it comes to performance, the first thing I’d like to highlight is that we tested both devices in rooms of identical dimensions. This allowed me to determine the differences in performance in detail and much more precisely, making it easier to announce the winner.
I have to say, the GermGuardian AC4200W surprised me, especially since it delivered significantly better performance than the Levoit.
Particle Removal Tests - Comparison
We placed the Levoit LV-H128 and GermGuardian AC4200W in two separate tests and measured their performance using the Temtop laser particle meter.
In the first test, performed in a 120 sq. ft. (11 m²) room, the Levoit LV-H128 improved air quality by 88%, while the GermGuardian AC4200W achieved a 92% improvement.
In the second test, in a larger 194 sq. ft. (18 m²) room—bigger than the recommended size for both units—the GermGuardian again outperformed the Levoit. It improved air quality by 90%, while the Levoit achieved an 82% improvement.
It’s clear that the GermGuardian AC4200W delivered superior performance and is significantly more efficient than the Levoit.
Smoke Box Test – Comparison
We placed both air purifiers in a glass box, filled it with smoke, and measured how long each device took to remove all the smoke.
The Levoit LV-H128 took 83 seconds to clear the smoke, while the GermGuardian AC4200W did it in just 43 seconds.
The difference in this test is nearly double in favor of the GermGuardian, making it significantly more efficient in our smoke test compared to the Levoit.
Noise Level Test – Comparison
I have to say I was surprised by the noise test results. I expected the GermGuardian to be quieter, especially since it has four fan speeds.
However, the results were different from what I expected. The GermGuardian AC4200W produces a sound of 49.3 dBA at its lowest speed, which is significantly louder than the 42.4 dBA produced by the Levoit LV-H128.
Noise Levels - Comparison
Comparison of noise levels at all fan speeds between the Levoit LV-H128 and GermGuardian AC4200W air purifiers.
Despite having only three fan speeds, the Levoit is a very quiet device—even at its maximum speed, where it produces just 49.3 dBA. Interestingly, the GermGuardian produces the same noise level at its lowest speed as the Levoit does at its highest.
| Fan Speed | GermGuardian AC4200W (dBA) | Levoit LV-H128 (dBA) |
|---|---|---|
| Sleep Mode | - | 42.4 dBA |
| Speed 1 (Low) | 49.3 dBA | 44.8 dBA |
| Speed 2 (Medium) | 59.5 dBA | 49.3 dBA |
| Speed 3 (High) | 61.3 dBA | - |
| Speed 4 (Turbo) | 63.1 dBA | - |
The Levoit is definitely quieter than the GermGuardian, and without a doubt, I would prefer using the Levoit LV-H128 in a space like a bedroom.
Operating Costs – Comparison
Frankly, nothing can match the 6W motor of the Levoit LV-H128. It’s definitely one of the best-optimized and smallest power consumers on the market.
On the other hand, the GermGuardian AC4200W uses a 26W motor.
Monthly Power Consumption Cost - Comparison
Comparison of monthly power consumption costs for the Levoit LV-H128 and GermGuardian AC4200W air purifiers at all fan speeds.
If both devices were run at maximum speed, 24 hours a day, for one month, the Levoit LV-H128 would increase your electricity bill by about $0.46, while the GermGuardian AC4200W would add approximately $2.70—almost six times the cost.
| Fan Speed | GermGuardian AC4200W (W + $/month) | Levoit LV-H128 (W + $/month) |
|---|---|---|
| Standby | 0.2W ($0.02) | 0.6W ($0.05) |
| Sleep Mode | - | 1.3W ($0.11) |
| Speed 1 (Low) | 19.5W ($1.71) | 2.7W ($0.24) |
| Speed 2 (Medium) | 24.6W ($2.16) | 5.3W ($0.46) |
| Speed 3 (High) | 26.5W ($2.32) | - |
| Speed 4 (Turbo) | 30.8W ($2.7) | - |
When we combine the cost of replacement filters with the power usage, we can say that the Levoit LV-H128 is much more affordable to maintain.
Features Overview
Levoit LV-H128 and GermGuardian AC4200W don’t have advanced options such as air quality sensors, air quality indicators, auto mode, and the like, but they have quite enough options for optimal everyday use.
Basically, these are two minimalist air purifiers that will surely satisfy most of your needs in terms of features.
Filter Reset Indicator
One of the most useful options on these two devices is the filter reset indicator. It is an LED indicator that will light up red when it is time to replace the filter.
This is a very useful feature because you don’t have to keep track of when it’s time to replace the filter, and I’m sure everyone will really like this option.
Aroma Pad
As I mentioned at the beginning of the comparison, the Aroma Pad is an option only available on the Levoit LV-H128 air purifier, and it is an option that highlights this air purifier as opposed to GermGuardian.
In essence, it is a hole located on the upper side of the device, in the middle, into which you can pour essential oil. When the air purifier is turned on, the smell of essential oil is dispersed by circulating the air around the room.
Timer
The timer option only adorns the GermGuardian AC4200W air purifier. In essence, the timer is used to set the time you want the device to turn itself off.
The timer on GermGuardian can be set to 2h, 4h, or 8h.
Airflow
Due to the different construction and filters position, the airflow on these two devices is different. Levoit has filters arranged on the sides, which means that the device draws in air from the sides, which is then filtered and exits through the grilles on the upper side.
GermGuardian has a cylindrical filter, which is located on the lower half of the device, which means that this air purifier draws air on the lower side through openings arranged on all sides. The air is then filtered and exits through openings in the upper side.
Warranty
What I like about the GermGuardian is that they give a generous 3-year warranty on the AC4200W model.
The situation with Levoit is different, as the Levoit LV-H128 comes with a 2-year warranty. I would advise everyone to register the LV-H128 on the Levoit website immediately after purchasing the device.
Filtration Technology
The filtration technology is also different between these two devices. The first difference is that the Levoit LV-H128 uses 3-stage filtration technology, while the GermGuardian AC4200W uses 2-stage filtration technology. In addition, Levoit can boast of the fact that it uses two filters placed on the sides.
The first stage of filtration at Levoit is pre-filter, the second stage is True HEPA filter, and the third stage is activated carbon filter.
At GermGuardian, the combination of carbon and pre-filter is the first stage of filtration, while the True HEPA filter is the second stage of filtration. I wouldn’t say I like GermGuardian’s tiny filter.
Although the filters on these two devices are of different shapes, they are difficult to measure, but it seems to me that Levoit’s filters are a little bigger.
What makes me especially happy and what I really like about these two models is that they both use the True HEPA filter.
Both devices are CARB certified, do not produce ozone, and are completely safe to use.
How to Replace Filters on These Two Air Purifiers?
The Levoit LV-H128 and GermGuardian AC4200W do not use a washable filter, which means you need to change them periodically. With the LV-H128, the filters last on average about 6-8 months, while with the AC4200W, the filters last on average about 6 months.
Fortunately, as I mentioned before, these two devices have a filter reset indicator that will notify you when it’s time to replace the filter.
The process of replacing the filter on both devices is simple and does not require any advanced steps. I have described in detail the process of replacing the filters for both devices, and you can find them at the links below.
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