Fellowes AeraMax DX55 Air Purifier – Hands-on Review!

Full Review

Although Fellowes is more focused on business users, companies, and larger facilities, it still offers several models designed for home use.

One such air purifier is the Fellowes AeraMax DX55, which, despite being a somewhat older model, still holds a good reputation, continues to sell well, and remains a popular choice among many users.

This small air purifier isn’t as modern as newer Fellowes models and, honestly, looks a bit outdated.

However, in our tests, it delivered very good results, proved to be reliable, its replacement filters are always in stock, and it offers some interesting features.

How We Tested the Fellowes AeraMax DX55?

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 Fellowes AeraMax DX55 in a 194 sq. ft. (18 m²) room. Then, we recorded the initial air quality values using the Temtop laser particle meter and let the Fellowes AeraMax DX55 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 Fellowes AeraMax DX55 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.

The Fellowes AeraMax DX55 has a CADR of 126 CFM (215 m³/h), which makes it ideal for rooms of up to 195 sq. ft. (18 m²).

In the recommended room size, it can clean the air 4.8 times per hour.

We tested its airborne particle removal performance in predefined rooms that we use to test and measure all air purifiers.

What I noticed is that the Fellowes AeraMax DX55 delivers okay airborne particle removal performance but lacks efficiency when it comes to neutralizing unpleasant odors.

Testing in a 194 sq. ft. (18 m²) Room

In a test performed in a 194 sq. ft. (18 m²) room, the Fellowes AeraMax DX55 was run at maximum speed for 60 minutes.

It improved air quality by 90%, which is a very good result. To be more precise, it reduced PM2.5 particle levels from 103.3 µg/m³ to 10.1 µg/m³.

When compared with similar air purifiers, its performance is respectable, though not class-leading. For reference, the Shark HP102 improved air quality by 92% in the same test, while the Mooka B-D02L achieved an 81% improvement.

Overall, although the Fellowes AeraMax DX55 didn’t deliver the best result in the class, it still performed well and is a device worth mentioning.

When testing noise, we always measure sound levels at each fan speed using a dedicated noise measurement tool.

The Fellowes AeraMax DX55 has four fan speeds.

At the lowest speed, it produces 41.9 dBA, which means it isn’t the best-optimized device at low speed, but still reasonably well optimized.

However, the situation is quite the opposite at maximum speed. The unit produces 74.7 dBA, making it one of the loudest air purifiers I have ever tested.

Even some significantly larger air purifiers are better optimized at their maximum speeds while delivering a much higher CADR.

For example, the Mila air purifier produces 73.5 dBA at maximum speed while delivering nearly double the CADR of the Fellowes AeraMax DX55.

Overall, I would say that the Fellowes AeraMax DX55 could be better optimized for noise, especially at maximum speed.

As for power consumption, I can’t say it’s particularly well optimized. The device uses a 62W motor, which, considering its CADR, results in a mediocre CADR-to-power ratio compared to many competitors on the market.

If you were to use the Fellowes AeraMax DX55 at maximum speed, 24 hours a day for one month, your electricity bill would increase by about $5.37.

By comparison, the AEG AX5 would cost approximately $4.82 over the same period, while offering a higher CADR and using a slightly better-optimized motor.

In addition to electricity costs, there is the cost of replacement filters, which isn’t too high. Replacement filters are almost always in stock.

Overall, I would say that the Fellowes AeraMax DX55 could be better optimized and more affordable in terms of annual maintenance.

Filtration Technology

In the user manual and on the official marketing pages, it’s highlighted that the Fellowes AeraMax DX55 uses a four-stage filtration technology.

While this is technically correct, one of those stages is essentially an enhanced HEPA filter, so it could also be described as a three-stage system. However, for the sake of consistency, it’s fair to classify it as a four-stage filtration system.

The unit uses two physical filters: an activated carbon filter and a True HEPA filter. It also features a built-in ionizer that can be turned on or off as desired, which is a significant advantage, especially since some air purifiers don’t allow the ionizer to be turned off, such as the Blueair 311i Max.

Overall, the filtration technology is quite solid. The filters are rectangular in shape and positioned at the front of the device.

Carbon Filter

The first line of defense is the carbon filter, which, frankly, isn’t particularly effective at neutralizing odors.

This is mainly because the filter is a carbon-infused foam layer rather than a true pellet-based activated carbon filter.

The purpose of this stage is to reduce odors, VOCs, smoke, and similar pollutants, but only at a very basic level.

True HEPA Filter

The second, and most important, filtration stage is the True HEPA filter.

It captures 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns, including pollen, ragweed, dust mites, mold spores, and even many airborne bacteria and viruses.

This filtration stage is the main reason the Fellowes AeraMax DX55 delivers solid performance in our airborne particle removal tests.

AeraSafe™ Antimicrobial Treatment

Although Fellowes describes this as a separate filtration stage, I can’t fully agree with that. However, I do agree that this technology is highly effective and important, and that it significantly contributes to the device’s overall performance.

In practice, this is a built-in chemical coating applied to the HEPA filter fibers. It functions as a passive biological stage. Because HEPA filters capture living organisms such as mold and bacteria, those organisms can sometimes grow on the filter surface. AeraSafe helps inhibit this growth.

According to Fellowes, this is the reason their filters don’t develop the sour or musty smell that many other air purifiers tend to develop over time.

PlasmaTrue™ Technology

The final filtration stage is a bipolar ionizer.

It creates an ionized field that releases charged particles into the air. These ions attach to pollutants, causing them to clump together, which makes them easier to capture or neutralize at the molecular level.

Personally, I don’t like using ionizers and almost always turn this feature off, regardless of which air purifier I am using.

For that reason, I like the ability to turn the PlasmaTrue feature on or off on the Fellowes air purifier.

How to Replace the Fellowes AeraMax DX55 Filter?

The Fellowes AeraMax DX55 uses two physical, non-washable filters that require periodic replacement.

The carbon filter is a thin filtration layer that becomes dirty very quickly and typically needs to be replaced every three months. In contrast, the True HEPA filter requires replacement about once per year.

The replacement process is straightforward and involves only a few simple steps.

Additionally, the AeraMax DX55 features a filter reset indicator that notifies you when it is time to replace the filters.

Setup and Installation

Although the Fellowes AeraMax DX55 comes with filters pre-installed, you still need to prepare it for first use.

The first step is to pull the filters out, unwrap them from their packaging, and place them back inside the device.

After that, place the Fellowes AeraMax DX55 in your desired location, plug it in, and turn it on.

Design

The Fellowes AeraMax DX55 is an older air purifier that was released back in 2013, which is a long time ago by today’s standards.

As a result, it features an old-fashioned design that doesn’t align with modern design principles.

The build quality is acceptable but not particularly impressive. The unit is made of plastic and comes in white with black accents.

One feature I like is the carrying slot on the back of the device, which makes it much easier to move from place to place.

Controls and Indicators

On the front of the device, there is a control panel with touch control buttons and an indicator.

There are buttons for Auto mode, Aera+ mode, fan speed, and PlasmaTRUE technology.

In addition, there is a mechanical power button located on the back of the device. This design choice is impractical and something I don’t like about this air purifier.

Some other air purifiers I have tested, such as the Philips 800 Series and the Philips 600i, use a similar style power button, but they are much newer devices than the Fellowes.

Overall, I think the controls are outdated, and adding a remote control or smart features would be a significant upgrade for this air purifier.

Airflow

The Fellowes AeraMax DX55 air purifier has air inlets located on the right side of the device.

Air entering the device passes through the four-stage filtration system and exits through the fan grilles at the top.

One drawback I noticed is that the air inlets are relatively small. In my opinion, airflow would be improved if the device also had intake openings on the front.

Size and Dimensions

The Fellowes AeraMax DX55 dimensions are 20.5 x 13 x 7.2 inches (52.07 x 33.02 x 18.10 cm).

It weighs 9.9 lb (4.49 kg). Overall, it is a small to medium-sized air purifier that is easy to move from room to room, thanks to the carrying slot on the back of the device.

What’s in the box?

When you buy the Fellowes AeraMax DX55, you get 1x the device, 1x HEPA filter, 4x Carbon filter, and a user manual.

Features Overview

The Fellowes AeraMax DX55 is a simple air purifier without any smart features, but it offers nearly everything needed for proper daily use.

Air Quality Sensor and Indicator

Honestly, this is one of the best air quality sensors when it comes to sensors built into air purifiers.

I say this because this sensor detects particles and gases. For example, the sensor in the Winix 5510 detects only gases.

Essentially, this sensor detects the current air quality in your home, sends that data further, and allows other features to operate based on it.

I’ll describe Auto mode and Aera+ in more detail later. In addition to these two modes, the Fellowes AeraMax DX55 has an air quality indicator on the front, located just above the control panel, which changes color depending on the air quality:

• Blue (Clean): The sensor detects very low levels of particles and gases. The fan will drop to its lowest, most energy-efficient speed.
• Amber (Poor): A moderate level of pollutants has been detected. The fan will automatically increase to Medium or High to “scrub” the air.
• Red (High Pollution): The sensor has detected a significant spike (like heavy smoke or strong chemicals). The unit will immediately jump to Turbo speed until the levels drop.

I think the air quality sensor is a very useful feature, as it allows you to partially automate your air purifier, even though it doesn’t work with a smart app.

Auto Mode

Auto mode is another feature that works in combination with the air quality sensor.

When Auto mode is enabled, the device automatically adjusts the fan speed based on current air quality readings.

If the air quality is poor, the air purifier switches to the highest fan speed.

If the air quality is good, it switches to the lowest fan speed.

Aera+™ Mode

Aera+ mode increases air turnover by 50%, making it ideal for high-pollen days or when someone in the household is sick.

Essentially, Aera+ mode is similar to Auto mode, as it also operates based on data received from the air quality sensor.

So, what is the difference between Aera+ and Auto mode? The key difference is that Aera+ takes a more aggressive approach.

When this mode is enabled, the device does not immediately reduce the fan speed once air quality improves. Instead, it continues running at a higher speed for a period of time before slowly lowering the fan speed.

Filter Change Indicators

The Fellowes AeraMax DX55 uses two filter reset indicators located on the control panel.

When the HEPA indicator lights up, it means the True HEPA filter needs to be replaced. This typically occurs about once every 12 months.

When the carbon indicator lights up, the carbon filter layer needs to be replaced, which is usually every three months.

Warranty

The Fellowes AeraMax DX55 comes with a 3-year warranty.

The warranty is generally valid worldwide, although Fellowes reserves the right to charge for shipping or service if you request repairs outside the country where the unit was originally purchased.

FAQ on Fellowes AeraMax DX55