Blueair 211+ Air Purifier Review – Simple & Efficient (2023)

The Blueair 211+ is another model in the Blue Pure series that I have tested in detail, and I will describe it in this review. Featuring a unique design, minimalism, and excellent performance, the Blueair 211+ will not only improve the air in your room but will also contribute aesthetically to the appearance of the room.

This unit is ideal for large rooms, offices, or large spaces up to 540 sq. ft.

Thanks to the 3-stage filtration combined with HEPASilent technology, the device removes common airborne pollutants, including allergens, odors, smoke, mold spores, and dust mites, without a problem. This is the mid-range model in the Blue Pure series; I’ve tested one other so far, the Blueair 411. There is also the largest model in the series, the Blueair 121.

Blueair 211+ Air Purifier - In-depth Review
The Blueair 211+ in my living room.

Blueair is a Swedish brand distributed all over the world. The company’s practice is to name some products differently on different continents, so this Blueair 211+ is identical to the Blueair 221, available on the European market.

In the following review, I will describe all the features of the Blueair 211+ air purifier, show the performance tests, the noise tests, as well as the energy consumption, and assess whether this model is worth buying and for whom it is designed.

Blueair 211+ Air Purifier - Smoke Test
The Blueair 211+ managed to remove all the smoke from the smoke box in just 11s.

Short on Time? Here’s My Short Summary of The Blueair 211+!

  • The Blueair Blue Pure 211+ is designed for large rooms up to 540 sq. ft.
  • The Blueair 211+ uses 3-stage filtration combined with HEPASilent technology.
  • It is a minimal device, without advanced options, with only one control knob.
  • Flexible pre-filters are a great addition to designing the air purifier to your liking.
  • Blueair offers a 2-year warranty on this model, with mandatory product registration on the website, after purchase.

Specifications

The Blueair Pure 211+ air purifier has several specifications, which I will outline in the table below:

Manufacturer Blueair
Model 211+
Dimensions 20.5 x 13 x 13 inches (52,2 x 33 x 33 cm)
Filtration Technology Washable Pre-filter, Particle Filter, Carbon Filter, and HEPASilent
Filter Longevity 6 months
Coverage 540 sq. ft.
Fan Speeds 3 – Low Mode, Medium Mode, and High Mode
Power 61W
Warranty 2-year
User manual PDF

Installation and Setup

Before starting up the Blueair 211+ air purifier, specific preparations must be made, which are extremely simple. The particle-carbon filter is already installed in the unit and ready to go. We only need to prepare the pre-filter.

With the purchase of the Blueair 211+, you get two fabric pre-filters (diva blue and dark shade). You need to choose the pre-filter you like and slide it onto the bottom half of the device. First, you need to separate the air purifier’s motor from the filter part by pressing the buttons on the side and then place the pre-filter on the metal housing on the bottom half of the machine.

Blueair 211+ Air Purifier - Setup and Installation
The Blueair 211+ disassembled.

This completes all the necessary preparation, so I recommend that you place the device on a solid surface, move it at least 10 inches away from the wall or other objects, plug it in, and switch it on. Please note that when setting up the unit, place it in a position where it can circulate a larger air volume. Most importantly, make sure the airflow is not blocked.

After 7 seconds of inactivity, the indicators around the button will dim by approximately 10% of their luminosity, which will be very pleasing to customers who intend to use the device in the bedroom.

In the event of a power failure, the Blueair 211+ will automatically switch back on when the power is restored and continue working at the previous settings.

Design

As I pointed out initially, the Blueair 211+ is a unique air purifier with some special design features only available in the Blue Pure series. The unit comprises two parts, the upper part is the motor, and the lower part is the filter. The upper part of the unit is made of hard plastic, completely white. The lower part is made of metal with holes, with a particle-carbon filter on the inside and a fabric pre-filter on the outside.

Blueair 211+ Air Purifier - In Front of the Desk
I placed the air purifier in front of my office desk.

The Blueair 211+ is characterized by a pre-filter available in five colors: Lunar Rock, Crystal Pink, Dark Shadow, Buff Yellow, and Diva Blue. I am sure that everyone will find a color that suits them. My favorite is, of course, Diva Blue.

When it comes to design, I would strongly criticize the device’s dimensions and the lack of a carrying handle. The Blueair 211+ is a huge device, and without carrying handles, it is challenging to move it from place to place. 

In short, this unique, modern air purifier will fit easily into almost any ambiance.

One Button For Ultimate Control

The Blueair 211+ is a minimal air purifier without advanced options. The idea behind this model was to clean the air as much as possible without disturbing the user with a multitude of options that may not be so necessary to enjoy clean filtered air. Because of all this, the Blueair 211+ has only one button located on the front, which is used to operate the device.

Blueair 211+ Air Purifier - Control Button
The Blueair’s control button.

Each press of the button changes the current fan speed, and that’s basically it. In addition, the button is used when the filter reset indicator needs to be reset.

However, it is not that the Blueair 211+ has no advanced options at all. In fact, Blueair remembers the last default settings. If, for example, you leave the device running at speed 3 and switch it off, the next time you plug it back in, it will automatically switch on at speed 3. This is great because it means you can connect the Blueair 211+ to a smart plug to allow you to control the device via your mobile phone (a smart plug is required).

Airflow

I really like that the Blueair 211+ has air inlets on all sides, all four sides.

The device draws air through the vents in the lower half. The air is then filtered and exits through the grilles at the top.

The openings on all sides are easier positioning of the device, better and more efficient filtration, and much higher filter utilization.

Size and Dimensions

The air purifier weighs 15 lb (7 kg). The dimensions of the device are: 20.5 x 13 x 13 inches (52,2 x 33 x 33 cm). I should mention that the device is very bulky and you should consider this when buying it, as it will certainly take up a lot of space.

What’s in the box?

You will receive a Blueair 211+ air purifier, particle + carbon filter, fabric pre-filters, and user manual when you buy the device. After unpacking the device, it is necessary to prepare the Blueair for work, so I definitely recommend you go back to the beginning of the review, where I explain how to prepare the device for the initial start and make sure you don’t skip a single step.

Features Overview

The Blueair Blue Pure 211+ is an air purifier that isn’t enhanced with advanced options, clever extras, and fun, fashionable stuff. It’s a minimal air purifier embodied in simplicity, and it’s safe to say it’s unique on the market. Perhaps the downside is the lack of at least some features, as I personally noticed with Blueair that I miss the timer option, which I use very often.

The Blueair 211+ is not a smart device, it has no sensors, but it is compatible with a smart plug. If you are looking for an air purifier with air quality sensors, Blueair has released the successor to this model, the Blueair 211+ Auto, which has a smart sensor option and is slightly more advanced than this model in terms of equipment.

Flexible Pre-filters

Perhaps the most exciting feature of this model and its hallmark are the replacement pre-filters, available in 5 different colors. This will particularly appeal to dynamic people who want to break the monotony and change the device’s color to a brighter one from time to time.

Blueair 211+ Air Purifier - Customizable Pre-filters
This air purifier comes with two pre-filters, in blue and dark gray.

The additional pre-filters are very affordable. I don’t think there is any reason not to buy more and refresh your Blueair 211+ air purifier.

Minimalism

The Blueair 211+ is characterized by minimalism, which is the basic principle on which this model is based. The device is easy to install and even easier to use. One button covers all the options on the device; you indeed can’t press the wrong button.

Filter Reset Indicator

A filter reset indicator is a handy option, mainly because, thanks to this option, you won’t have to keep track of when it’s time to change the filter; the Blueair 211+ will let you know.

The indicator around the control knob has two colors in addition to white. If the indicator glows yellow, it means it’s time to start thinking about a new filter (this is after about 5 months of use). Suppose you still haven’t changed the filter. In that case, the indicator will light up red, which I know indicates an urgent filter change (this indicator usually lights up after 6 months).

Certified Device

Blueair is a notable company that leaves nothing to chance, which is why the Blueair 211+ is a certified air purifier.

The AHAM certification confirms that Blueair has a CADR 350. The Energy Star certification confirms the energy efficiency of this model. Finally, the CARB certification affirms that the Blueair 211+ is safe to use and does not produce illegal amounts of ozone. Of course, this certification also allows you to buy a Blueair air purifier if you are from California.

Warranty

The Blueair 211+ comes with a 1-year warranty. However, if you register the unit on the Blueair website, you will receive a 2-year extended warranty. Blueair gives the lowest warranty for the Blue series. I don’t know why, but some of the other series, like the Classic series, have as much as a 5-year warranty.

Room Coverage and CADR

The Blueair 211+ is a large air purifier ideal for large rooms such as living rooms, large bedrooms, offices, family rooms, playrooms, and similar large rooms.

The Blueair is an AHAM-verified air purifier and has a CADR of 350CFM (590 m3/hr), which means that in a 540 sq. ft. room (50m2), it can purify the air 4.8x in one hour. I can say that this is a very high airflow and maybe even among the largest on the market. No wonder the 211+ is designed for large spaces.

Blueair 211+ Air Purifier Video Review

If you like to see Blueair 211+ in action and want to learn more about it, check out the video review above.

Filtration Technology

The Blueair 211+ is equipped with a 3-stage filtration system consisting of a pre-filter, a particle filter, and a carbon filter. In addition, the Blueair 211+ uses HEPASilent technology, which is essentially an ionizer that is always on and cannot be switched off. Particles in the air receive an electrical charge that makes them ‘sticky.’

So, smaller particles stick to the filter instead of simply passing through. Larger particles get trapped in the filter’s mesh.

Blueair 211+ Air Purifier - FIlters
I have disassembled the air purifiers and pulled the filter out.

Blueair is very vague and scarce on information about HEPASilent technology, how it works, where exactly it is, and other specifications. I even thought that the Blue series did not include this technology, so I checked with Blueair support, who responsibly claim that all Blueair air purifiers have built-in HEPASilent technology.

Blueair 211+ Air Purifier - Replacing Filter

Blueair 211+ Replacement Filter

Always buy genuine filters for the best performance. As soon as the filter reset indicator is on, you are ready to change filters. Do it as quickly as possible.

View Filter Price On Amazon

It’s important to note that Blueair is CARB certified, so you don’t have to worry about whether this model is producing an illegal amount of ozone.

Washable Pre-filter

The fabric pre-filter is the first stage of filtration. It is essentially a reusable, washable cloth that serves to trap larger particles of dust, pet hair, and the like, thus extending the life of the particle filter.

Blueair 211+ Air Purifier - Pre-filter
Blueair’s fabric pre-filters.

After the first day of use, I noticed that a lot of dust had accumulated on the pre-filter, thanks to the very high airflow. I really like that the pre-filter immediately shows how much dust is collected; in fact, at any time, you can see how much less dust you will inhale.

It is recommended to wash or clean the pre-filter at least once a month for best performance.

Particle Filter (Not-HEPA)

The particle filter is the second level of filtration. This is essentially the primary stage of filtration. Its purpose is to remove airborne particles such as pollen, dust, pet dander, and other small particles.

Blueair 211+ Air Purifier - Particles Filter
Particle filter.

It’s a little disappointing that the Blueair 211+ doesn’t use a True HEPA filter. Still, nevertheless, this model performed excellently and showed that Blueair technology does its job perfectly. Many manufacturers are opting for patented technologies that they use for filtration.

For example, Molekule Air uses PECO technology, which is interesting but not as effective. In fact, I sometimes think that new technologies are ‘unnecessary’ to that extent, especially as the True HEPA filter is tested and does its job to a top-level.

Carbon Filter

The third level of filtration is a carbon-coated fiber filter. This final stage of filtration is responsible for removing household odors from pets, cooking, and smoking.

Blueair 211+ Air Purifier - Carbon Filter
Carbon filter.

In the tests I have carried out, the Blueair has shown promising results in eliminating smoke and smells, but if the unit is exposed to a large amount of smoke every day, it gets dirty very quickly, and after a while, the filter needs to be replaced.

Simply put, the Blueair 211+ does not have enough carbon to adsorb large amounts of smoke. For example, devices such as the Winix 5500-2 and Alen FLEX use carbon pellets which are much more massive and can adsorb much more smoke and are therefore more effective in combating odors than the Blueair 211+.

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How To Replace Blueair 211+ Filter?

The Blueair 211+ uses a washable pre-filter which does not need to be changed, but the combination of particle and carbon filter is not washable, so these filters need to be changed every 6 months on average. Fortunately, Blueair uses a filter reset indicator to let you know when to change the filter, so you don’t have to worry about these details.

Total time: 10 minutes.

Step 1

First, you need to open the device by gently pressing the release buttons on both sides.

First, you need to open the device by gently pressing the release buttons on both sides.

Step 2

Remove the top from the bottom of the unit.

Remove the top from the bottom of the unit.

Step 3

Pull the old filter out and put the new filter in.

Pull the old filter out and put the new filter in.

Step 4

Put back the top part of the air purifier and press it slowly until you hear a click.

Put back the top part of the air purifier and press it slowly until you hear a click.

Step 5

Plug in the device and reset the filter indicator by pressing the button and holding it for 3 seconds. The red light will turn to white, and you are ready for new filtration adventures.

Resetting the filter reset indicator.

Noise Test

The Blueair 211+ uses only three fan speeds. It is a huge device and has a huge airflow. All this when you consider the Blueair is expected to be unbearably loud, but it still isn’t. I was simply amazed at the volume that the Blueair 211+ produces with such a huge airflow. I can say that the engineers have done a great job here.

Blueair 211+ Air Purifier - Noise Test
I used a special noise measurement tool when testing this air purifier’s noise levels.

One minor drawback is that the Blueair 211+ is a shade louder at maximum speed, which may annoy some users. Remember that this is when the device is at its most efficient level and then also produces the maximum airflow.

The Blueair 211+ produces sound at only 43.9 dBA at the first speed, while at maximum speed, it produces sound at approximately 59.7 dBA.

Speed Value (dBA)
Low Mode 43.9 dBA
Medium Mode 51.2 dBA
High Mode 59.7 dBA

I have come across much smaller devices that are drastically louder, and I can say that although the volume produced by the Blueair 211+ is not ideal, I am overwhelmed. I think the sleep mode would be a great addition, especially for people like me who prefer to use an air purifier at night.

Performance Tests

The Blueair 211+ is an air purifier designed for rooms up to 540 sq. ft. However, it is safe to say that it can be used in slightly larger rooms than the recommended dimensions, mainly as this model performed well in a slightly larger room than recommended.

Although it is not a True HEPA air purifier, I find the Blueair particle filter efficient and does a great job; otherwise, this model would not be as good.

Blueair 211+ Air Purifier - Performance Test
I used the Temptop laser particle meter when testing performance.

Not to be dull, I have highlighted the most exciting tests I have done on the Blueair 211+ air purifier. Whether the Blueair is efficient enough, you can see for yourself.

320 sq. ft. Room Test

In the first test, I put the Blueair in a 320 sq. ft. room, which is much smaller than the recommended dimensions. The unit ran at top speed and improved air quality by an incredible 96% in 60 minutes, lowering the AQI from 136 to 6. The Coway AP-1512HH achieved similar results.

# Starting Baseline After 60min
PM 2.5 104.4 4.7
PM 10 146.1 6.5
Particles 151396 6829
AQI 136 6

I’m thrilled that Blueair is at this level and that I found another unit that is top-of-the-line.

560 sq. ft. Room Test

In the second test, this model scored very well in a 560 sq. ft. room slightly larger than the recommended dimensions. The Blueair 211+ improved air quality by around 92% in 60 minutes of operation, showing that it can tackle poor air even in rooms larger than the recommended dimensions.

# Starting Baseline After 60min
PM 2.5 108.6 9.7
PM 10 152 13.6
Particles 157499 14147
AQI 142 12

Overall, I am delighted with the performance of this model and can characterize this test as acceptable.

Operating Costs

When we look at this device’s capacity, airflow, and size, we expect the motor’s power to be enormous. The Blueair 211+ uses a 61W motor, which is not a lot considering the specifications of this model. This model simply cannot compare to some much smaller air purifiers that use 10W motors.

Blueair 211+ Air Purifier - Operating Costs
This air purifier has a very powerful motor.

If you let the Blueair 211+ run at maximum speed every day and so on for a month, your electricity bill would increase by about $4.3, which is not much.

Speed Power Usage (W)
Stand-by 0.2W
Low Mode 15W
Medium Mode 36W
High Mode 49W

I am, however, a little disappointed with the price of replacement filters, which have to be changed twice a year on average. Although not a big electricity consumer, I would consider this model to be a bit more expensive in terms of annual maintenance due to the slightly more costly filters and their frequent replacements.

FAQ on Blueair 211+

How do I reset the Blueair 211+ filter?

To reset the Blueair 211+ filter, you need to press the control button and hold your finger on it for 3 seconds.

Does the Blueair 211+ produce ozone?

The Blueair 211+ uses an ionizer, which means that it produces ozone. The good thing is that it is CARB certified, which means it does not produce illegal amounts of ozone.

Does the Blueair 211+ use a True HEPA filter?

No, it doesn’t. Blueair uses a particle filter, a Blueair technology.

Pros and Cons

To revise, here are the advantages and disadvantages of the Blueair 211+ air purifier:

Pros

  • The unit is designed for large rooms up to 540 sq. ft.
  • Good for allergies
  • Energy efficient
  • Not as loud considering the CFM
  • Excellent build quality
  • 360-degree air intake
  • HEPASilent technology
  • The minimal device, easy to use
  • Washable pre-filter

Cons

  • Bulky, heavy unit
  • Expensive unit, expensive maintenance
  • No True HEPA filter
  • Slightly louder at maximum speed

Final Thoughts

An unusual air purifier, unique in its own way, the Blueair 211+ is equipped with Swedish filter technology that captures 99% of airborne pollutants such as viruses, pollen, dust, pet dander, mold, bacteria, and others.

This model surprised me in many ways. First of all, the excellent performance, the clean minimalism, the washable pre-filter, and the not-so-loud noise at first and second speed. In addition to the high airflow and the room coverage of up to 540 sq. ft., all I can say is magnificent.

Based on all of the above, we can conclude that the Blueair 211+ is the ideal air purifier and that you will certainly not go wrong if you decide to buy it.

However, you should bear in mind that the maintenance of this device is a bit more on an annual basis, but I don’t think this should be a problem given the advantages offered by the Blueair 211+. If you have any questions, please leave a comment or contact me directly by email.

9.5

SCORE

Review Breakdown

Performance

9.8

Noise

9.3

Operating cost

8.9

Value for money

9.5

Ease of use

9.8

5 responses to “Blueair 211+ Air Purifier Review – Simple & Efficient (2023)”

  1. Rita Pech

    Hello Milan, your info was most informative.
    My question is: is it ok to place my brand new
    BlueAir 211+ directly on the carpet. No hardwood
    Floors in my home. Thanks Rita

  2. Angela

    *Just to add to the above, I purchased the Coway for my bedroom.

  3. Angela

    I’de like to know what speed you recommend running this Blue 211+ on if I plan to keep it on 24/7 in an open living room? I have been leaving it on the 2nd speed so far and I have had it a few days. I also purchased the Coway Airmega Mighty True HEPA Air Purifier with 361 sq. ft. Coverage and just have had it one day so far. It looks like from another review you recommend keeping that one on Eco mode? Last night I slept it on speed 2 and had no problem with sound. Thanks for your reviews. I have never had an air purifier until about a week ago when I purchased these 2 units for my 900 sq foot 2 bedroom house. I spent days doing research and landed on these 2. I picked up the Blue 211+ for $249 at Sams which is partly why I got that one for the living room. I know the Coway is good but was worried it wouldn’t be large enough for the open living room.

    • Milan Antonic

      Hi Angela, thanks for commenting.

      It’s all individual and depends on a person’s preferences. I personally don’t like and can’t bear loud buzzing, as is the case on many air purifiers at their max speeds. So, that’s why I usually use air purifiers in the Sleep Mode (when in the bedroom) and in the Auto Mode (or its equivalent ECO Mode) in everyday situations. And, of course, I use them at the max speed only while cooking or when there is a huge amount of some pollutants (when cleaning the house, which then becomes over dusty, or when there is someone who is smoking in my house, etc.).

      As for the use of the air purifier 24/7, using it at the second speed is okay.

      I’m sure you will be extremely satisfied with the air purifiers you purchased and that you will notice many benefits of using them!

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