AIRTOK AP0601 Air Purifier – Hands-on Review!

Full Review

Lately, I’ve bought quite a few less-known air purifiers that have quickly gained popularity, received plenty of positive reviews, and are selling extremely well.

One such device is the AIRTOK AP0601. It’s a small air purifier, not particularly powerful, designed for very small rooms, yet it ranks among the best-selling devices on the market.

To verify the quality of this unit, I analyzed the results of all our performance tests, compared them with similar devices, and thoroughly reviewed its specifications and marketing materials.

All in all, I believe this will be a very useful review for anyone unsure about whether to buy this compact AIRTOK air purifier.

How We Tested the AIRTOK AP0601?

1. For the filter efficiency testing, we used the Temtop LKC-1000S laser particle meter, which measures PM2.5 (µg/m3), PM10 (µg/m3), Particles (per/L), and HCHO (mg/m3) in the air, and also calculates the AQI.

2. We placed the AIRTOK AP0601 in a 120 sq. ft. (11 m²) room. Then, we recorded the initial air quality values using the Temtop laser particle meter and let the AIRTOK AP0601 run at maximum speed.

3. After 60 minutes, we measured the new values using the Temtop laser particle meter and saved the data.

4. Next, we placed the AIRTOK AP0601 in a glass box, which we then filled with smoke. Then, we measured how much time was needed for the air purifier to remove all the smoke from the box.

5. Using a special noise measurement tool, we tested the air purifier’s noise level at all speeds. We measured the noise level on the dBA scale.

6. Finally, we measured the power usage at all speeds using an energy meter, after which we calculated how much it would cost to use the device at a particular fan speed for one month. For reference, we used an energy price of $0.12 per kWh.

Based on its CADR and room coverage of 94 sq. ft. (8.7 m²), we tested how effectively the AIRTOK AP0601 captures airborne particles.

These are standard tests we conduct in predefined rooms, and while the rooms may differ in size, the testing method is identical for every air purifier.

In addition to these tests, I used the AIRTOK AP0601 for several days in my living room to personally evaluate its effectiveness.

What disappointed me was its weak performance in neutralizing bad odors.

I also have to point out that the very low CADR is noticeable—in fact, to achieve any meaningful results, the device must constantly run at max speed, which may be a drawback for some users, as air purifiers are typically not quiet at their highest setting.

Testing in a 120 sq. ft. (11 m²) Room

In a 120 sq. ft. (11 m²) room test, we measured how much the AIRTOK AP0601 could improve air quality after 60 minutes of running at maximum speed.

We recorded the results using a Temtop laser particle meter.

After just 60 minutes of operation on max speed, the AIRTOK AP0601 reduced PM2.5 levels from 101.7 to 13.7 µg/m³, which is an air quality improvement of approximately 86%.

If you look at the chart below, where I compared the performance of competing devices in a similar price range, the AIRTOK ranks somewhere in the middle, which isn’t a bad result overall.

For example, the Fulminare improved air quality by about 69% in the same test, while the Blueair Mini Max achieved a much better result, improving it by around 92%.

Typically, small air purifiers like the AIRTOK AP0601 use compact, well-optimized motors that aren’t too loud, even at max speed.

At its lowest speed, the AIRTOK produces a noise level of 40.5 dBA, which is one of the best results when compared to similar devices (see chart below).

However, at max speed, the situation is a bit different. While the AIRTOK is still relatively quiet and produces a sound level of 55.8 dBA, it’s not the quietest among similar models and ranks somewhere in the middle.

All things considered, I’d say the AIRTOK AP0601 is a very quiet and well-optimized air purifier.

One of the most important factors when discussing operating costs is the motor’s power consumption.

In this case, the AIRTOK AP0601 air purifier uses a 10W motor, making it one of the most energy-efficient devices on the market.

This means that if you were to run the AIRTOK at maximum speed, 24 hours a day, for an entire month, your electricity bill would increase by only about $0.59, which is very affordable, you’ll agree.

Compared to the competition, the AIRTOK again ranks somewhere in the middle. For example, the MORENTO MR2566 would cost you just $0.52 under the same conditions.

In addition to electricity costs, there’s also the cost of replacement filters. While they aren’t particularly expensive, the downside is that you’ll need to replace them roughly every 3 to 6 months.

All things considered, the AIRTOK AP0601 is a very budget-friendly air purifier when it comes to annual maintenance.

Filtration Technology

The AIRTOK AP0601 uses a cylindrical filter located in the lower part of the device.

This filter consists of four layers, each serving a specific function, which I’ll explain in more detail below.

At first glance, I can say the filter is quite small but still effective enough to eliminate airborne particles in small rooms.

Pre-filter

The first stage of filtration is the pre-filter, which is essentially a nylon mesh.

This filter is designed to capture large particles such as hair, large dust, and similar debris. In doing so, it not only enhances the overall filtration process but also extends the lifespan of the other filters.

Blue Nano Nylon

Honestly, I don’t see much practical value in this stage, and I believe it serves more as a marketing feature than something that will provide real benefits.

That said, I’d describe it as a reinforced pre-filter, which is still a good thing—it further enhances the filtration process and helps protect the HEPA filter, ultimately extending its lifespan.

HEPA Filter

The third stage of filtration is the HEPA filter, which is the most important stage in this air purifier and is primarily responsible for the results we saw in our airborne particle removal performance tests.

This filter captures small airborne particles such as dust, pollen, mold, allergens, and more.

It’s a real downside that the AIRTOK doesn’t have an Energy Star certification, which would confirm that it truly uses a genuine HEPA filter.

As it stands, we have to rely on marketing materials—which haven’t always proven to be the most reliable source.

Activated Carbon

The final stage of filtration in this device is the activated carbon filter.

Unfortunately, the AIRTOK uses a fibrous filter coated with carbon instead of a pellet-based carbon filter, which noticeably impacted its performance.

While it’s rare to find a pellet-based carbon filter in air purifiers within this price range, there are exceptions—one of them being the Levoit LV-H128.

How to Replace the AIRTOK AP0601 Air Purifier Filter?

The filters in this air purifier are not washable, which means you’ll need to replace them from time to time.

The manufacturer recommends replacing the filters every 3 to 6 months, which is a relatively short interval, especially if you plan to use the air purifier in more polluted environments.

However, there’s a simple trick to extend the filter’s lifespan: clean the pre-filter regularly, at least every other week.

As for knowing when it’s time to replace the filter, you don’t need to worry—the AIRTOK comes with a filter reset indicator that will alert you when it’s time for a replacement.

The replacement process itself is very straightforward and involves just a few simple steps.

Setup and Installation

This air purifier doesn’t require any advanced setup before the first use—just follow a few simple steps.

First, open the cover on the bottom of the device, and take out the box containing the power adapter and the filter.

Next, unpack the adapter and take off the plastic wrap from the filter, then place the filter back into the unit.

After these steps, all you need to do is place the AIRTOK in your desired location—making sure not to block the airflow in any way—plug it in, and turn it on.

Design

When it comes to design, the AIRTOK AP0601 features a classic cylindrical shape, but what sets it apart from other devices are a few unique details.

This model is available in both white and black, and for testing purposes, I purchased the black version.

The plastic quality isn’t anything special, but it’s perfectly fine for a device of this type.

Display and Controls

On the top of the device, you’ll find the control panel with all the controls and LED indicators.

This panel includes buttons for powering the device on, adjusting the fan speed, setting a timer, activating the child lock and night light features, as well as the filter reset indicator.

Additionally, in the center of the panel, there’s a small compartment that holds the aroma pad.

Airflow

The AIRTOK AP0601 has a cylindrical shape, with air intake vents located on the lower half of the device and distributed around its entire circumference.

The air is then filtered and released through the vents on the top of the unit.

Size and Dimensions

This air purifier dimensions are 6.3 x 6.3 x 10.2 inches (16 x 16 x 26 cm).

This air purifier weighs 2.9 lb (1.3 kg). I have to emphasize that the AIRTOK is a very lightweight and compact air purifier, making it easy to move from room to room without any hassle.

What’s in the Box?

When you buy the device, you will get the AIRTOK AP0601 air purifier, a 4-stage filter (pre-installed), aroma pads, and a user manual.

Features Overview

The AIRTOK AP0601 is a minimalist air purifier that doesn’t offer many advanced features, but it does include a few that are worth mentioning.

Aroma Therapy

Essentially, at the top of the device, in the center, there’s a small slot with aroma pad pillows.

The idea is to add a few drops of essential oil to these pads, and the device will disperse the scent into the air, but only while it’s turned on.

I’ve written about this topic before, where I analyzed whether air purifiers with an aroma pad feature can be as effective as dedicated essential oil diffusers.

Night Light

This is a great feature if you plan to use the air purifier in a room where some form of ambient lighting would be beneficial.

That means the night light can be useful if you’re using the air purifier in living rooms, bedrooms, or similar spaces.

Timer

The timer is another useful feature, especially considering that the AIRTOK doesn’t have any smart functions.

Essentially, this feature allows you to set the air purifier to turn off automatically after a certain period. You can set the timer to 2, 4, or 8 hours.

Child Lock

The child lock is a great feature that allows you to lock the control panel to prevent any accidental changes to the settings.

Essentially, when this mode is activated, the device won’t respond to any button presses.

Warranty

The AIRTOK AP0601 comes with a one-year warranty.

However, it’s possible to extend the warranty to two years—simply contact AIRTOK through the contact form on their website and request a one-year extension.

FAQ on AIRTOK AP0601