Levoit LV-H132 vs Levoit LV-H128: Ultimate Face-Off

In this comparison, I will compare two products from the Levoit LV series. I will compare the performance, volume, power consumption, and other features of the Levoit LV-H132 and Levoit LV-H128 models.

The Levoit LV-H132 is one of the first models launched by Levoit. It is intended for rooms up to 129 sq. ft. The Levoit LV-H128, on the other hand, is a new model from the Levoit series; it is adorned with some innovative features, which I will talk about in this comparison article. LV-H128 is designed for rooms up to 161 sq. ft.

The LV-H132 is one of the most popular models from Levoit. You can say that the LV-H128 is its successor and also a direct competitor. Many users see the LV-H128 as a great choice to buy, especially when considering that this model’s price is slightly lower.

However, it is too early to declare these two air purifiers big rivals because the LV-H128 was recently released to the market. I think that the rivalry will happen in the next period and that more and more users will be in doubt about which of these two models to choose. Keep reading to find out which model and why is my absolute purchase recommendation.

Specifications

Features Overview

Each of these two products has some properties that the other does not have, and by that, they are specific and stand out from each other. However, both devices have a filter reset indicator as well as 3 fan speeds.

Filter Reset Indicator

This feature is handy, and I’m delighted that both devices have a built-in filter reset indicator. Basically, this indicator will light up when it is time to replace filters.

Night Light

The Levoit LV-H132 has a built-in night light, which glows in a lovely blue color. The night light needs to be turned on. It can only be turned on when the air purifier is also on.

This is a great addition and option if you plan to use the device in the bedroom and if you like to have dim lighting in the room.

Aroma Pad

Aroma Pad is an option that adorns the Levoit LV-H128 model. It is located on the top of the device. It is basically an opening into which you pour essential oils. The device will disperse the essential oil smell (when it is turned on and when the air flows) through the room.

This is a great, innovative option, which I have not seen in any other air purifier so far. I think that Levoit will keep this option on some future models and even raise it to a higher level in some segments.

Airflow

Airflow is somewhat different, primarily because the filters and the filters’ position are different among these devices. Levoit LV-H132 is circular in shape. The device draws air through small openings on the underside. The air is then filtered and exits through openings at the top.

The Levoit LV-H128 uses two twin filters, which are arranged on the sides. Therefore, this device draws air through the openings on the sides. The air is then filtered and exits through the slots on the upper side of the device.

Filtration Technology

The Levoit LV-H132 and Levoit LV-H128 use classic 3-stage filtration, which you can find on almost all Levoit models. The first stage of filtration in both devices is pre-filter, the second stage of filtration is a True HEPA filter, while the third stage of filtration is a carbon filter.

As for gas filtration, both devices use a fibrous filter coated with carbon.

Another significant difference is that the Levoit LV-H128 uses two identical filters, which are arranged on the sides. This is an excellent option because the filters on the LV-H128 are tiny, and I think that with just one filter, the device could not make any progress in improving air quality.

The filters on both devices are not washable. However, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t maintain them. My suggestion is to clean the pre-filter on both machines at least once a month, thus extending the True HEPA filter’s life.

How to replace filters on these air purifiers?

With the Levoit LV-H132, the filter is changed on average every 6 months. In comparison, the Levoit LV-H128 filters need to be changed between 6-8 months on average. However, in my experience, this period is also somewhere around 6 months.

Both devices use a filter reset indicator, so you won’t have to worry about when it’s time to replace the filter. The device will let you know.

Noise Test

It is somewhat expected that the Levoit LV-H128 has a better-optimized motor, mainly because it is a newer model and because Levoit is a company that improves its devices with each new model.

If we look and compare the volume at all speeds, the Levoit LV-H128 is definitely a quieter model. The Levoit LV-H132, although much louder at third speed, is not too loud, and I’m sure the sound of the motor at this speed won’t bother you much. Both devices are a little louder at third speed, but not much and not unbearably.

I don’t think this fact will make much of a difference in the final decision. Whichever model you end up opting for, the noise will definitely not be a problem for you.

Performance Test

Levoit LV-H132 and Levoit LV-H128 are two small devices that have almost identical CFM and are designed for rooms of similar dimensions.

LV-H132 is designed for rooms up to 129 sq. ft., while the LV-H128 is designed for rooms up to 161 sq. ft. Therefore, I tested both devices in rooms of identical dimensions and in similar conditions. Of course, I did all the tests separately.

120 sq. ft. Room Tests

In the first test, I tested the devices in a room of 120 sq. ft. Both devices were running at third, which is also the highest speed at all times. The Levoit LV-H132 improved the air quality in this room by about 88% in 60 minutes, lowering the AQI from 67 to 8.

In the same room and in identical conditions, the LV-H128 lowered the AQI from 196 to 24 in the same period. It thus made a similar result as the opponent, improving the air quality by about 88%. The devices produced decent results on this test.

194 sq. ft. Room Tests

The second test was performed in a room of 194 sq. ft. This room is larger than the recommended dimensions for both devices. In this, as well as in the previous room, the machines worked at the highest speed.

The Levoit LV-H132 lowered the AQI from 69 to 9 in 60 minutes, improving room air quality by about 87%. Levoit LV-H128 in identical conditions in the same period improved air quality by about 82%, thus lowering the AQI from 117 to 21.

Let’s consider the price and expectations of these two devices. I can say that they made outstanding results on performance tests.

Operating Costs

The Levoit LV-H132 and Levoit LV-H128 are very small devices and are expected to need little energy. The Levoit LV-H132 uses 28W, while the Levoit LV-H128 use 6W.

The LV-H128 uses several times less energy, but that doesn’t mean the motor power and airflow are weak in this model. Simply put, Levoit has upgraded the motor on this device, which now produces almost identical airflow with less power than the LV-H132 air purifier.

The price of replacement filters doesn’t differ much, even though the LV-H128 model uses two filters and the LV-H132 only has one. All in all, these two air purifiers don’t require lots of maintenance on an annual basis if we take all the facts into account.