Important note: Aura Air filed for bankruptcy in 2023, so I would advise you to think carefully before making the final decision to purchase this device.
Specifications
| Manufacturer | Aura |
| Model | Air |
| Dimensions (inches / cm) | 14.8 x 14.8 x 6 inches (37,5 x 37,5 x 15 cm) |
| Weight (pounds / kg) | 12.1 lb (5.5 kg) |
| Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) | 206 CFM (350 m³/h) |
| Filtration Technology | Pre-Filter, Ray-Filter, UV-C Light, and Sterionizer |
| Filter Replacement Indicator | Yes |
| Filter Life | 6 months |
| Number of Fan Speeds | 3 – Silent Mode, Low Mode, and High Mode |
| Air Quality Sensor Air Quality Sensor Summary: Out of 71 air purifiers tested, only 33 have the air quality sensor. | Yes |
| Air Quality Indicator | Yes |
| Auto Mode Auto Mode Summary: Out of 71 air purifiers tested, only 34 have auto mode functionality. | Yes |
| Smart App Smart App Summary: Out of 71 air purifiers tested, only 22 have smart app functionality. | Yes |
| Voice Control Voice Control Summary: Out of 71 air purifiers tested, only 22 have voice control functionality. | Yes |
| Other Features | Wall-Mount |
| 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. | 325 sq. ft. (30 m²) |
| Performance Ratings Performance Ratings Score Summary: 8.4 - Average Score (71 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. | |
| Power Consumption
Power Usage Summary: Our extensive testing of 71 air purifiers revealed the following power consumption insights:
Check out our power consumption calculator tool. | 34W |
| Operating Costs Ratings Operating Costs Ratings Score Summary: 9 - Average Score (71 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. | |
| Noise Level (low – high) | 42.2 – 63.3 dBA |
| Noise Ratings Noise Ratings Score Summary: 9.3 - Average Score (71 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 | Portable Use |
| Warranty | 1-year |
Full Review
The Aura Air purifier has some smart features and principles that set it apart from many other devices I have tested so far. The most notable physical difference from traditional air purifiers is that while most are designed to sit on the floor, the Aura Air is intended to be wall-mounted.
In addition, the Aura Air has an innovative filtration system that you won’t find in any other device. An advanced air quality sensor and superior build quality are just a few of the additional features that enhance this top-of-the-line air purifier.
I really like the full control of the Aura Air through its smart app, which provides a detailed air quality display that can be viewed by hour and day.
The Aura Air utilizes a 4-stage filtration technology, which contributes to the device’s performance and efficiency.
In essence, the Aura Air is designed to help clean the air of bacteria, viruses, allergens, and VOCs.
How We Tested the Aura Air?
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 Aura Air in two separate performance tests, one in a 320 sq. ft. (30 m²) room and the other in a 560 sq. ft. (52 m²) room. Then, we recorded the initial air quality values using the Temtop laser particle meter and let the Aura Air 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 Aura Air 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.
Performance – Particle Removal Tests
Performance – Particle Removal Tests:
8.4 - Average Score (71 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.
The Aura Air is an air purifier designed for rooms up to 325 sq. ft. (30 m²). The manufacturer claims that its filtration system captures and kills 99.9% of viruses, bacteria, VOCs, and allergens.
We tested the unit in a room of the recommended size as well as in a room nearly twice that size.
The patented filtration technology proved effective; however, I believe that adding a True HEPA filter would have significantly improved the overall filtration performance.
Testing in a 320 sq. ft. (30 m²) Room
In the first test, we placed the Aura Air in a 320 sq. ft. (30 m²) room and let it run for 60 minutes at maximum speed.
| # | Starting Baseline | After 60 min |
|---|---|---|
| PM 2.5 | 102 µg/m³ | 15.6 µg/m³ |
| PM 10 | 142.8 µg/m³ | 21.9 µg/m³ |
| Particles | 147929 per/L | 22696 per/L |
| AQI | 133 | 21 |
During that time, it reduced the PM2.5 particulate matter from 102 to 15.6 µg/m³, resulting in an air quality improvement of about 84%.
Particle Removal Test Room - Comparison
Comparison between the Winix A231 and its competitors in particle removal tests in a 320 sq. ft. (30 m²) room.
Compared to similar air purifiers, I can’t say this is a great result. Even some much smaller air purifiers have produced better outcomes. For example, the Airdog X3 improved air quality by 91% in the same room.
Testing in a 560 sq. ft. (52 m²) Room
In a 560 sq. ft. (52 m²) room, the Aura Air improved air quality by approximately 78% after 60 minutes of operation at maximum speed.
This is a weaker result compared to the previous test, which I believe is due to its low CADR, as the Aura Air continued to improve air quality after the initial 60 minutes.
| # | Starting Baseline | After 60 min |
|---|---|---|
| PM 2.5 | 93 µg/m³ | 20.1 µg/m³ |
| PM 10 | 130.3 µg/m³ | 28.2 µg/m³ |
| Particles | 134962 per/L | 29263 per/L |
| AQI | 122 | 27 |
Overall, the device performs much better in rooms smaller than the recommended size, so I would recommend using it in spaces smaller than the manufacturer’s suggested dimensions.
Performance – Smoke Removal Test
The Aura Air is an average air purifier with a CADR of 206 CFM (350 m³/h) and unique filtration technology.
Innovations are expensive and not always profitable, especially in the world of air purifiers, where most devices still use filtration technology developed several decades ago.
Aura Air attempted something new, and while I support innovation and enjoy seeing fresh, good ideas, I must admit that the Aura Air didn’t perform particularly well in our tests.
Smoke Box Test - Comparison
In this chart, you can see how quickly the Winix A231 removes smoke from a glass box compared to its competitors.
Given its CADR, we expected much better results in the smoke test. However, the Aura Air took 52 seconds to clear all the smoke from the glass box, which is longer than I expected.
Compared to similar devices, the Aura Air is significantly slower and less effective. Even the smaller Levoit LV-H132 outperformed it, clearing the smoke from the glass box in just 50 seconds.
Noise Levels Test
Noise – Sound Level Tests:
9.3 - Average Score (71 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 measure the noise level on the dBA scale.
You can read more about our testing methodology here.
The Aura Air has three fan speeds. It’s relatively quiet and well-optimized, especially at the lowest speed, where it produces a sound level of 42.2 dBA.
While this isn’t the best in its class and doesn’t match the quietness of the Alen FLEX at the lowest speed, I would still consider using the Aura Air in my bedroom. It’s quiet enough for that!
One aspect I like is that the Aura Air’s motor runs smoothly, without any unpleasant noise. However, at maximum speed, it becomes a bit louder, producing a sound level of 63.3 dBA.
Noise Levels Test - Comparison
This chart compares the noise levels at the minimum and maximum speeds of the Winix A231 air purifier with those of its competitors.
Compared to other air purifiers with similar CADR ratings, the Aura Air is middle of the pack—not too quiet, but not overly loud either. For example, the Levoit Core 300S is slightly louder than the Aura Air at maximum speed, producing 65.2 dBA.
| Fan Speed | Aura Air (dBA) |
|---|---|
| High Mode | 63.3 dBA |
| Low Mode | 49.5 dBA |
| Silent Mode | 42.2 dBA |
Overall, the sound produced by the Aura Air is acceptable at lower speeds, but it does get a bit louder at high (maximum) speed.
It’s surprising how energy-efficient the Aura Air is. The unit uses a 34W motor, which is ideal for its CADR.
If you run the Aura Air 24 hours a day for a month at maximum speed, your electricity bill would only increase by about $1.53, which, I’m sure you’ll agree, isn’t a huge cost.
| Fan Speed | Aura Air (W + $/month) |
|---|---|
| Standby | 0W ($0) |
| High Mode | 17.5W ($1.53) |
| Low Mode | 6.1W ($0.53) |
| Silent Mode | 3.2W ($0.28) |
Compared to other similar air purifiers, I can confidently say that the Aura Air is one of the best optimized for power consumption (please see the chart). Even smaller air purifiers, like the Winix A231, would cost you more—$3.56 in this case.
Monthly Power Cost – Comparison
Comparison of the monthly power cost at maximum speed between the Winix A231 and some of its competitors.
In addition to the cost of electricity, there’s also the expense of replacement filters, which need to be changed approximately twice a year.
When we sum up all these costs and consider that the replacement filter for the Aura Air is more expensive than that of an average air purifier, we can conclude that the Aura Air is moderately priced to maintain annually, but not overly expensive.
Filtration Technology
The Aura Air air purifier uses a 4-stage filtration system consisting of a pre-filter, a Ray filter, a UV-C light, and a sterilizer.
Scientific research has shown that Aura Air detects, traps, and kills 99.9% of viruses, bacteria, molds, and VOCs so you can breathe freely. Ideal for any indoor space, it removes airborne particles down to 0.3 microns in size, including allergens and viruses. The high-precision air quality sensor combined with the auto mode option and 4-stage filtration will make the air in your environment much better and more desirable to breathe.
Pre-Filter
The pre-filter is the first stage of filtration. This filter targets large particles, including dust, pollen, insects, and animal hair.
Its primary purpose is to keep out any larger particles, thus preventing them from entering the Ray-Filter and thus extending its life.
Aura Air takes between 24-48 minutes to fully calibrate the sensor and start displaying the latest data in the app.
Ray-Filter
The Ray-Filter is the second stage of filtration and the primary filter on this device. Interestingly, this filter comprises 3 unique antibacterial layers that target fine particles (PM 2.5 and 10), germs, odors, bacteria, viruses, fungi, and mold spores.
This filter consists of three layers: a HEPA filter, an activated carbon filter to absorb odors, and a cotton fabric filter impregnated with copper oxide to kill bacteria and neutralize viruses, fungi, and molds.
UV-C light
UV-C light is the third level of filtration; it is located inside the device and is not visible from the outside. A UV-C filter uses light to help remove microorganisms such as germs and viruses.
Sterionizer
The Sterioniser acts as an ionizing filter system, electrically charging molecules and allowing them to settle on surfaces to be cleaned later.
How to Replace the Ray-Filter?
The Ray-Filter is the primary filter on the Aura Air air purifier; it is not washable and needs to be changed every 6 months on average.
The smart app will send you a notification as a reminder when it’s time to change the Ray-Filter.
The process of changing the filter is straightforward; you just need to follow the steps below:
Total time: 10 min.
Step 1 – Disconnect Aura Air
First, unplug Aura Air from the electrical outlet.
Step 2 – Remove Old Ray-filter
Remove the cover and take out the old Ray-filter.
Step 3 – Insert New Ray-filter
Insert the new Ray-filter inside the air purifier.
Step 4 – Replacing the Aura Air Cover
Replace the Aura Air cover.
Installation and Mounting
The Aura Air is fully packed and ready to use but requires some preparation before the first start-up.
If you want to use the Aura Air as recommended by the manufacturer, you will probably want to hang it on the wall. The device has three 6 mm screws that serve as brackets. For a detailed explanation and how to hang the device on the wall, please refer to the user manual that also comes with the device. Please note that the power cord is slightly shorter, approximately 6.5 ft (2 m), so I advise you to choose a position close to a power socket. In addition, make sure that the device is positioned to reach the WiFi signal and that it is at least 20 inches (50 cm) away from other objects.
After selecting the location and before installing the device, the DC adapter must be connected. The last necessary step for the device to work is to connect it to the Smart App, which I have explained in detail under the heading Smart App.
Design
The Aura Air is an air purifier designed for wall mounting. This significant difference sets it apart from other air purifiers on the market. Personally, I haven’t hung the Aura Air on the wall because I simply don’t have a free wall to put it on. Even if placed on the floor, Aura Air would not lose performance.
The first thing I noticed when the device arrived was the superb packaging. I really like it when companies go out of their way to package a product well, especially when it is a premium product like Aura Air, which also comes with premium packaging.
The Aura Air is made up of several components. The front cover contains the pre-filter, which is also the first stage of filtration, and the main cover, which clings to the Ray-Filter and rests on the base.
The device is made of high-quality plastic, white in color, while the primary cover is a contrasting, high-quality grey fabric. The main cover is attached to the base through a magnet.
On the front of the device, at the very bottom, there is an LED indicator essential for the communication of the device with the user. This indicator glows in several different colors in two different ways: flashing or breathing.
To sum up, the Aura Air is a very well-made device; it is also very aesthetically pleasing, and I am sure that it will fit seamlessly on almost any wall.
Setup Button
The Aura Air has only one button: the setup button, which is located on the back of the device, between the exhaust holes. This button has only one purpose: to help connect the device to the smart app. By pressing and holding the button for 4s, the device switches to listening mode (the LED light flashes green), which means the WiFi signal is active and ready to connect to the mobile app. Apart from this option, I didn’t notice that the setup button has any other option.
Aura Air has no other button on the device apart from this one because the device is fully smart, and all control is done via the smart app, which is available for iOS and Android devices.
Airflow
Aura Air is a square air purifier with rounded edges. The device draws air from the front through the openings under the front panel.
The air then passes through all stages of filtration and exits through the vents at the back, arranged around the entire device.
Size and Dimensions
The air purifier weighs 12.1 lb (5,5 kg). The dimensions of the device are 14.8 x 14.8 x 6 inches (37,5 x 37,5 x 15 cm). Aura Air is not a bulky device, it is not very heavy, so it will not take up a sizable wall-mounted area.
What’s in the box?
You will receive Aura Air, a wall adapter and plugs, Smart Jig, screws, anchors, washers, and a user manual when you buy the device.
As I mentioned earlier, I am impressed with how Aura Air is packaged with the quality of the box and the packaging it comes in. However, I recommend going back to the beginning of the article, where I explain the unpacking and preparation process in detail so that you don’t skip any steps.
Aura Air operates between 110 – 220 V and has accessories for almost any socket in the world. This is a perfect thing because wherever you are, you can order Aura Air, and you will have no problems using it in your own country.
Features Overview
Although it looks very minimalistic, Aura Air is equipped with many advanced features.
Apart from the standard options expected in this price range, what I like most is the air quality sensor equipped with 7 different sensors, which is definitely one of the most advanced I have come across so far.
Wall Mounting
The main idea is to hang Aura Air on the wall or ceiling, which sets it apart from conventional air purifiers, mostly fixed on the floor or other solid surfaces.
Hanging it on the wall is very simple; all the necessary material is supplied with the device, and it is up to you to choose just where you want to put it.
If you are in a situation like me and have no wall space, you can comfortably place the device on a table, the floor, or a similar hard surface.
Smart App
The smart app is the basis of the Aura Air air purifier, and without a connection to the smart app, the device is useless and cannot be used.
Having been guided by previous experience and the plethora of air purifiers with a smart app but are very buggy and almost impossible to connect to the device, I was also skeptical about Aura Air. However, the connection process was smooth and hassle-free and I find it one of the better-made apps. All this can be confirmed by the excellent reviews in the app stores.
Operating Modes
The most unusual thing about Aura Air, which I have not come across before and which I am not at all used to, is the inability to switch the device off. At first, I found it very strange that I could not turn the device off (except by pulling the plug), which is set to always work. However, on reflection, this is not such a bad idea, because why do we need an air purifier if not to keep the air clean. So using a device like the Aura Air all day long, which is not a significant energy consumer but also has excellent sensors and controls the way it works according to the sensors, is not a disadvantage, but a fantastic innovative idea and a great benefit overall.
Regarding the operating modes, Aura Air has 3 operating modes: High Mode, Low Mode, and Silent Mode. There is also the inevitable Auto Mode, which switches to one of these three modes depending on the current air quality in the room.
In addition to these three modes, which are essentially three different speeds, there is also a Night Mode used when we need a bed rest. The Aura Air reduces the speed to the minimum and dims the LED indicator. This mode can be set to a maximum of 12 hours in one day. Once active, it will automatically activate at the specified time each day.
Filter Reset Indicator
You can check the current wear of the Ray-Filter on the smartphone app at any time.
In addition, Aura Air will notify you when the pre-filter needs to be cleaned, which is also essential to periodically clean it from dust residues.
This is a handy option as this way, you do not have to manually keep track of when it is time to change the filter; Aura Air will do everything for you.
Air Quality Sensor
Aura Air uses a smart sensor that measures the air quality in the room in real-time. The air quality in the room is measured by 7 different sensors.
The sensors in the Aura air purifier detect smoke, CO, CO2, VOC, PM 2.5, PM 10, temperature, and humidity. Very comprehensive and in line with the quality and price of this device.
The sensor is located inside the device. The air comes into contact with the sensor after it passes the first filtration stage (pre-filter). In addition, you can find information about the current air quality in your environment (according to the location you have set in the app), which you have obtained from the BreezoMeter service.
For a detailed overview of how Aura Air measures and determines the current air quality and to better understand the values, I recommend reading the official explanation of all scales on the Aura Air website.
LED Indicator
The LED indicator is located on the bottom of the device, on the front side.
In addition to the app, it is the primary means of communication between the device and the user.
This indicator has several different states:
- Flashing green: Aura has entered listening mode; it is waiting for new WiFi
- Flashing blue: establishing a connection to the network
- Flashing blue: connecting to the cloud
- Breathing white: Aura is working properly
- Flashing white: no WiFi connection
- Breathing magenta: Aura has entered safe mode
- Flashing magenta: waiting for firmware update
- Flashing amber: device cover is open
- Flashing red: high CO/smoke warning
Integration of Voice Assistants
In addition to connecting to the smart app, Aura Air offers the possibility to connect to Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. It is a perfect option for users who want to take control of this device to a higher level and operate it with voice commands.
Aura Air Smart App
Aura Air requires a connection to the smart app, available for iOS and Android devices. Therefore, if you don’t have a smartphone that runs one of the two systems mentioned, I suggest you reconsider buying an Aura Air air purifier.
As I mentioned earlier, the smartphone app is so well-optimized that you should have no problems connecting to the device and using the app itself.
Check out the most exciting options offered by the smart app in the following paragraphs.
But before you start anything, you need to download the app to your smartphone, install it and run it. Then follow the on-screen instructions to register with a valid email address, verify the address and move on to the next step.
Connect Your Device to Your Phone
After registering and completing the other steps that follow, you need to connect Aura Air to your smart device. You must continue to follow the steps and instructions you receive in the app. To get started, connect Aura Air and turn it on. The LED should flash green, indicating that the device is ready for a WiFi connection.
Follow the on-screen instructions to connect the Aura Air to your WiFi network; once you have successfully connected WiFi and the air purifier, return to the app and press the “Connect” button. Wait for a while for the device to connect, and then you should see the screen as in the third screenshot.
Initial Settings
The middle button, which looks like the Aura air purifier, goes to the main control panel.
If you access this button for the first time, you will see the Heidy Assistant, which asks you to fill in certain information so that the air purifier can be customized to your needs. If you are not comfortable sharing this type of information, press the “x” in the top right corner to close the Heidy window.
Main Dashboard
Once you’ve completed all the initial steps, you’re in total control of your Aura Air air purifier. At the top of the screen, you can see a graph showing the current indoor and outdoor air quality. Below are a few different sections that you can swipe between to see all the information you might need, such as air quality, temperature, the number of individual particles in the air, and recommendations based on air quality and preset items via the Heidy Assistant.
Clicking on the lightning button located in the top right corner opens a window to control the device’s operating mode and the setting to turn the device night mode on and off at a specific time.
Settings and Analytics
Pressing the chart button in the top right corner opens a window with a detailed overview of the air quality, which can be filtered by the hour or day.
In the top right corner, the last button in the row opens the basic settings for Aura Air. Here you can find options to turn notifications on or off, the ability to reset the filter, and other options.
Another exciting but, in my opinion, incomplete option is the suggestions the app gives according to air quality. I like this idea very much, and you can get excellent advice, but the problem is that it is dominated by incomplete and not-so-good advice. I hope the developers will work on this and add and adopt many new and helpful tips. This information sometimes appears in notices.
Space Coverage and CADR
The Aura Air Air Purifier is designed for rooms up to 320 sq. ft., which means it will clean the air 4.8 times in one hour in a room of this size.
According to the manufacturer’s specifications, Aura Air will clean the air 2.5 times (ACH) in an hour in a room of 600 sq. ft. size, which means the Aura Air has approximately 200 CFM.
When determining the room size covered by the unit, it is common to take 4.8 ACH as standard. So, when calculated, this means that the Aura Air would be best used in rooms up to 360 sq. ft., which is then similar in coverage to the Winix 5500-2 air purifier.
In any case, the Aura Air fits perfectly in a living room, bedroom, office, or even any other room that has a free wall on which you can hang the device.
FAQ on Aura Air
Does Aura Air need to be hung on the wall?
It is recommended but not mandatory.
Can Aura Air work without a smart app?
The smart app is required to use the Aura Air air purifier, and it cannot work without it.
What is the warranty?
The Aura Air comes with a one-year warranty.
Any updates on the app? Can’t really use the machine without it but can’t get in the app anymore so what to do? Are we just out of luck if we want to change the mode or check on filter life?
There have been no updates so far.
I saw that Aura Ireland is still active, and I will do my best to reach out and check if there is any solution to this problem or at least if they have plans to fix the app.
Sorry to hear of there bankruptcy. Have 2 wall units purchased Jan 2022. Last app 2.2.8 update I received was in July 23 where new multi fan modes speeds were introduced. Milan have you tried pairing a unit with the app now there bankrupt?
Both of our units continue to perform as expected without app connectivity. I always used the auto mode. One of our units is running in my wife’s hair salon. It still varies fan speed when air quality is poor. I noticed when my mobile updated from Android 13 > 14 the aura app load stops at login page. Login fails, but what’s interesting is you can request and receive a email password reset and reset password. Android 7 aura app 2.2.8 loads up to the location page but both units are no longer paired to app. Pairing fails at step #5 connection to wifi network. Colored lights pairing sequence looks normal. Green, white, blue, white flashing in this order. Never completed pairing no internet connection. I expect the final pairing process is trying to connect to aura air service.
The Aura Air app works in the cloud, so I think it won’t be possible to use it fully again. I hadn’t expected such a large company to file for bankruptcy, especially when the air purifier market is rising.
Where do you get app support now that the company went bankrupt?
Unfortunately, I haven’t been able to find a way to contact Aura Air support since this incident happened.