I decided to compare the Winix 5500-2 and the Winix C535 air purifiers to help potential buyers decide which of these two nearly identical models to choose.
The dimensions, motor power, CADR, and almost all technical specifications of these two Winix air purifiers are the same. However, many users still find themselves unsure about which model to buy. The Winix 5500-2 and the Winix C535 (Zero) are designed for rooms of up to 360 sq. ft. (33 m²). Both use a 4-stage filtration system combined with an ionizer that can be turned on or off.
Both models are very popular and rank among the company’s bestsellers. The Winix 5500-2 features an all-black design, while the Winix C535 is white with a black top panel and some other black details. In the following article, I will compare their key specifications, highlight their strengths and weaknesses, and clarify which device I consider the better choice.
Our Verdict
At first glance, the biggest difference between these two devices is their color. However, if you dig a little deeper, you will find that they also use different filters, especially when it comes to the carbon filter.
Both air purifiers delivered excellent performance, use well-optimized motors, and offer several advanced features.
However, due to slightly better performance, wide availability of third-party filters, and a pellet-based carbon filter, I pick the Winix 5500-2 as the better overall choice.
If you have any questions about these two devices, feel free to leave a comment in the comments section below the article.
Specs: Winix 5500-2 Vs Winix C535
| Product Image |  |  |
| Manufacturer | Winix | Winix |
| Model | 5500-2 | C535 |
| Dimensions (inches / cm) | 15 x 8.2 x 23.6 inches (38.1 x 20.8 x 59.9 cm) | 15 x 8.2 x 23.6 inches (38 x 20.8 x 60 cm) |
| Weight (pounds / kg) | 15.4 lb (7 kg) | 14.8 (6.7 kg) |
| Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) | 232 CFM (394 mÂł/h) | 232 CFM (394 mÂł/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. | 360 sq. ft. (33 m²) | 360 sq. ft. (33 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, Washable AOC Carbon Filter, and True HEPA Filter | Pre-Filter, Odor Absorbing 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 99 air purifiers revealed the following power consumption insights:
Check out our power consumption calculator tool. | 70W | 70W |
| 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 | 5 – Sleep Mode, Speed 1, Speed 2, Speed 3, and Turbo Mode | 5 – Sleep Mode, Speed 1, Speed 2, Speed 3, and Turbo Mode |
| 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. | No | No |
| Voice Control Voice Control Summary: Out of 99 air purifiers tested, only 28 have voice control functionality. | No | No |
| Other Features | PlasmaWaveLight SensorRemoteTimer | PlasmaWaveLight SensorRemoteTimer |
| Noise Level (low – high) | 40.6 – 66.4 dBA | 40.8 – 63.2 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 | Pets Living Rooms Kitchens Allergies Smoke Dust Neutralizing VOCs | Pets Living Rooms Allergies Dust |
| Warranty | 2-year | 2-year |
| In-Depth Review | Winix 5500-2 | Winix C535 |
| Price |
Performance Test – Comparison
The most significant difference between these two devices becomes apparent when looking at their performance, especially in odor removal. The main reason for this is the slightly higher-quality, pellet-based carbon filter used in the Winix 5500-2.
Both air purifiers are rated for rooms of up to 360 sq. ft. (33 m²), which is why we tested them in a 320 sq. ft. (30 m²) room and compared their performance side by side.
We placed each unit in a separate test and measured air quality improvements over 60 minutes using a Temtop laser particle meter.
Particle Removal Tests - Comparison
We placed the Winix 5500-2 and Winix C535 in two separate tests and measured their performance using the Temtop laser particle meter.
The results showed that the Winix 5500-2 improved air quality by 96%, reducing the AQI from 141 to 5. The Winix C535 improved air quality by 95%, which is also an excellent result.
Overall, the Winix 5500-2 performed slightly better in airborne particle removal tests and proved to be a noticeably stronger option for odor neutralization.
P.S. Winix has released the Winix 5510 model, which is an upgraded version of the 5500-2. It may also be worth considering, so I recommend checking out its review if you haven’t already.
Smoke Box Test – Comparison
We placed both air purifiers in our smoke removal test to see which one could clear smoke from the glass box more quickly.
The procedure: We placed each air purifier inside the glass box, filled it with smoke, and measured how long the device took to remove all visible smoke.
The Winix 5500-2 needed about 20 seconds to remove all the smoke from the glass box, while the Winix C535 needed around 21 seconds.
Although the Winix 5500-2 was only slightly faster in this test, it features a much higher-quality, pellet-based carbon filter, which makes it a significantly better option for long-term odor control.
Noise Level Test – Comparison
These two Winix air purifiers have five fan speeds and an auto mode.
We measured noise levels at each speed using a specialized sound meter that records noise on the dBA scale.
At the lowest fan speed, the Winix 5500-2 produces 40.6 dBA, while the Winix C535 produces 40.8 dBA.
Noise Levels - Comparison
Comparison of noise levels at all fan speeds between the Winix 5500-2 and Winix C535 air purifiers.
At the highest fan speed, the difference becomes slightly more noticeable. The Winix 5500-2 reaches 66.4 dBA, while the Winix C535 measures 63.2 dBA.
Overall, I have very few complaints about the motor. The only drawback is the noticeable jump in noise between fan speed 3 and fan speed 4.
| Fan Speed | Winix C535 (dBA) | Winix 5500-2 (dBA) |
|---|---|---|
| Sleep Mode | 40.8 dBA | 40.6 dBA |
| Speed 1 (Low) | 42.4 dBA | 42.7 dBA |
| Speed 2 (Medium) | 44.2 dBA | 44.9 dBA |
| Speed 3 (High) | 47.1 dBA | 50.3 dBA |
| Speed 4 (Turbo) | 63.2 dBA | 66.4 dBA |
I would declare the noise performance a draw, especially since both air purifiers produce very similar noise levels in real-world use.
Operating Costs – Comparison
Both air purifiers are powered by an identical 70W motor, so their power consumption is nearly the same.
If you were to run each device at maximum speed for 24 hours a day over the course of one month, your electricity bill would increase by about $5.08 for the Winix 5500-2 and about $4.74 for the Winix C535.
I believe this small difference is due to the Winix 5500-2 using a denser activated carbon filter, which requires slightly more power to move air through.
Monthly Power Consumption Cost - Comparison
Comparison of monthly power consumption costs for the Winix 5500-2 and Winix C535 air purifiers at all fan speeds.
In addition to electricity costs, there is the cost of replacement filters. These typically need to be replaced about once a year for both devices and are priced very similarly.
Another advantage is the wide availability of third-party replacement filters for both air purifiers.
| Fan Speed | Winix C535 (W + $/month) | Winix 5500-2 (W + $/month) |
|---|---|---|
| Standby | 1.2W ($0.11) | 1.2W ($0.11) |
| Sleep Mode | 3W ($0.26) | 3.7W ($0.32) |
| Speed 1 (Low) | 6W ($0.53) | 6.4W ($0.56) |
| Speed 2 (Medium) | 7.7W ($0.68) | 8.8W ($0.77) |
| Speed 3 (High) | 11.4W ($1) | 13.2W ($1.16) |
| Speed 4 (Turbo) | 54.1W ($4.74) | 57.9W ($5.08) |
Overall, the operating costs of these two Winix air purifiers are nearly identical, so I would call this category a draw.
Features Overview
The Winix 5500-2 and Winix C535 have many standard features, so I won’t dwell on each one individually. More details on both products can be found in the individual reviews I posted here on the airpurifierfirst.com website.
All the options that the Winix 5500-2 has, the Winix C535 also has. Options that characterize these devices are auto mode, sleep mode, 4 fan speeds, timer, smart sensor, air quality indicator, light sensor, and filter reset indicator. I will describe the most critical options in more detail below.
Smart Sensor
The Winix 5500-2 and Winix C535 use a smart sensor that monitors air quality in real time. The smart sensor detects odors and cannot detect dust particles. This means that the sensor will be most useful if you plan to use the air purifier in rooms where you want to neutralize bad odors. The smart sensor is located on the top of the device.
Air Quality Indicator
An air quality indicator is an option that is directly connected to the smart sensor. Based on the smart sensor readings, the air quality indicator will light up a specific color.
Both the Winix C535 and the Winix 5500-2 use an identical indicator. If the indicator is light blue, the room air quality is good. If the amber is lit, the air quality is fair, and if the indicator is red, it means that the room’s air quality is low.
Auto Mode
Auto mode is another option that works in combination with a smart sensor. If auto mode is on, the device will monitor the current air quality and change the fan speed accordingly.
However, there is also a light sensor. So, if it is dark in the room, auto mode will switch to sleep mode.
Filter Reset Indicator
Both devices have a filter reset indicator, which will notify you when it is time to replace the filter. On both devices, it is necessary to change the filters every 12 months on average.
Winix 5500-2 Vs Winix C535 Video Comparison
Filtration Technology
Both devices use 4-stage filtration, which includes PlasmaWave technology. The most significant difference in the filtration system between Winix 5500-2 and Winix C535 is in the filters for neutralizing odors, carbon filters.
The first stage of filtration in both devices is the pre-filter. The second filtration stage of the Winix 5500-2 is an activated carbon filter with pellets. In contrast, the second filtration stage of the Winix C535 is a fibrous filter coated with carbon.
The third stage of filtration in both devices is the True HEPA filter. The last step of filtration is arbitrary. It is PlasmaWave technology that produces negative ions and thus improves filtration efficiency. The devices are CARB certified, confirming that the devices are safe to use and do not produce ozone in unauthorized quantities.
It is important to note that the activated carbon filter on the Winix 5500-2 is washable. The True HEPA filter on both air purifiers is identical, without any difference. In my opinion, for most users, the difference in the carbon filter is not crucial.
How to replace filters on these air purifiers?
With both devices, the filter is changed on average every 12 months.
The big difference is that the Winix 5500-2 uses a washable carbon filter. In contrast, the Winix C535 uses a carbon filter that needs to be changed on average every 4 months.
Both devices come with a filter set sufficient for a smooth operation of 12 months.
All Winix fail imo because of the air quality sensor. The sensor picks up only odors. So useless in auto mode.
I’m torn between one of these two and a Levoit Core 400S. I already have a 600S and it’s very good.
I would rank them in this order: the Winix 5500-2, the Levoit Core 400S, and the Winix C535.
Interesting, thanks. I managed to get a used C535 and it’s impressive, even though it’s not new, though I fitted new Pureburg filters. Why would you put the 400S above the 535?
It has a pellet-based carbon filter, a slightly larger CADR, a better-optimized motor, a particle air quality sensor, and smart features.
Excellent article! Well researched and documented. We’ve had our Winix 5500-2 from before Covid. Very pleased with it as the only filter that needs replacing is the Hepa filter once as year as the other two are washable. Very very pleased with our Winix 5500-2! It definitely helped to protect us through Covid up to today!!!
Your analysis appears to conflict regarding the stages of purification. The winix website states the 535 is a 3 stage while the 5500 is a 4 stage stage filter system.
Is there another filter?
1 pre filter
2 carbon filter
3 hepa filter
4 plasma ionizer
These are on both machines. I still don’t see a difference except for marketing.
Thanks
Hi Tom, they both use a four-stage filtration technology. You are correct! The stages are: Pre-filter, Carbon Filter, True HEPA filter, and PlasmaWave. The most significant difference is in their carbon filters; the 5500-2 uses a pellet-based one, while the C535 uses a fibrous filter coated with carbon.
I just purchased the C535 at Walmart. I was planning to get the 5500-2 online but I was heading to an overnight visit where I feared asbestos might be present and decided to take the risk on this model. It was very gratifying to learn that it is basically the same, especially since I didn’t buy it for odors. One advantage of the c535 where I got it – it comes with a second hepa filter (and 2 years’ replacement carbon filters).
Thank you for this great comparison article! Very well written and researched.
As an owner of the 535 for many years, and 24-hr-a-day user during wildfire smoke time of year, I have to say I am very satisfied with my c535 air purifiers. I also have to say that I was able to fit the carbon filter with the little balls in it into my 535s–albeit sitting directly behind the outside door. I do think it makes a big difference, and when I clean it with my vacuum hose, there is a lot of yucky stuff (technical terminology) to clean. It takes a little bit of patience to balance the large carbon filter inside the door, but once done, it is worth it.
Thanks for sharing your valuable hearing experience.
Thanks for the quick reply
Hello it was very nice your presentation but I have to ask something can I use the active carbon filter off 5500-2 To the other model wining zero ?
Hello, a few minutes ago, I have tried if the Winix 5500-2 filter can fit into the Winix C535, and the answer is no, the Winix 5500-2 filter can’t fit into the Winix C535! The reason is that the filter in the 5500-2 is thicker than the C535 filter.
This comment applies to your Winix 5500-2 and Winix C535 Comparison Test.
Your review and remarks on the Winix 5500-2 was excellent.
As an owner of a C535 for 3 years, I find the C535 to be a very fine air purifier, yet I agree with you that the 5500-2 is better.