Levoit is a company that brings many innovations to the market. They make different types of air purifiers, from minimalistic to smart ones. In this review, I will present a test of the Levoit Core 300, an minimalistic, easy-to-use, and extremely efficient air purifier.
Firstly, I want to say that this air purifier lacks advanced options such as an air quality sensor or the possibility to connect to the smart app. But, a timer, display lock, and sleep mode options are built-in and are just enough for smoothly everyday use of the Core 300.
Table of Contents
- Levoit Core 300 Specifications
- Design
- Levoit Core 300 Video Review
- Features Overview
- Room Coverage and CADR
- Filtration Technology
- How to Replace Levoit Core 300 Filter?
- Levoit Core 300 Filter – Before and After
- Noise Test
- Performance Tests
- Operating Costs
- Levoit Support
- Pros and Cons
- FAQ on Levoit Core 300
- Final Thoughts
Levoit Core 300 is a powerful air purifier with an improved filtration system, and it’s intended for rooms up to 219 sq. ft. It uses a True HEPA filter to remove 99.97% of airborne particles as large as 0.3 microns. Pollen, dust, pet hair, pet dander, and bad odors are easily removed with this True HEPA air purifier.
Thanks to the powerful motor and VortexAir Technology, the Levoit Core 300 can do decent work even in slightly larger rooms than recommended.
What I also like is how silent this air purifier is at work. Thanks to QuietKEAP Technology that reduces noise, Core 300 on sleep mode is almost unnoticeable. In other words, you can sleep like a baby when the sleep mode is on or even watch the TV.
Short on Time? Here’s My Short Summary of The Levoit Core 300!
- Levoit Core 300 is intended for rooms up to 219 sq. ft.
- It uses a three-stage filtration technology, consisting of a pre-filter, a True HEPA filter, and an activated carbon filter.
- This air purifier is not a huge power consumer, and it’s easy to maintain.
- The Core 300 is one of the best sellers from Levoit.
- Levoit offers a two-year warranty for the Core 300 if you register it on their website after purchase.
Levoit Core 300 Specifications
Below is a complete list of important specifications and features included in the Levoit Core 300 air purifier:
| Manufacturer | Levoit |
| Model | Core 300 |
| Dimensions | 8.7 x 8.7 x 14.2 inches (22 x 22 x 36 cm) |
| Filters | Pre-filter, True HEPA Filter, and Activated Carbon Filter |
| Filter Longevity | 6-8 months |
| Room Coverage (4.8 ACH) | 219 sq. ft. |
| CADR (CFM) | Smoke 141 / Dust 140 / Pollen 145 |
| Number of Fan Speeds | 4 – Sleep Mode, Speed 1, Speed 2, and Speed 3 |
| Power Consumption | 45W |
| Warranty | 2-year |
| User manual |
Design
Levoit won an iF Design Award with this model. White color with gray details and an amazing touch panel on the top are what fit most rooms.
With such a simple yet modern design, Levoit easily took praise for their latest product. But it is not all in looks. High-quality plastic guarantees durability. Everything is sealed correctly, and the plastic is BPA Free.
The Levoit Core 300 is small and very easy to use. You can place it on a table, but at the same time, it is big enough to be placed on the ground or any other place. It is made in a perfect size that fits everywhere.
Core 300 can fit any room thanks to a neutral design with neutral colors. If you don’t fancy white, it is also available in black. Furthermore, if any of these colors don’t suit you, you can check the Core P350, which is gray, and what’s most important, it is almost the same as the Core 300.
Because this is not a large device, it can be completely invisible in the room if you blend it perfectly into the environment.
Levoit logo is not large like I used to see it on other products and is definitely not standing out. It is placed perfectly, and the dark gray color just makes it visible, but at the same time, it blends entirely.
The Core 300 draws air in through openings at the bottom that are spread all around the air purifier. The air is then filtered and exits through the holes at the top. This large entry space allows the Levoit Core 300 air purifier to be very efficient.
The power cord cable is large enough, and you won’t need an extension.
Levoit Core 300 is light and mobile, which means that you can quickly move it from one room to another and, in such a way, keep the air clean in a whole house.
Control Panel
The control panel is well-designed. The touch buttons are sensitive enough and easy to use. The only problem is that there are not too many advanced functions that, for example, its successor, the Levoit Core 300s, has.
Also, a bit annoying is that there is no beep or any other sound when you press a button, and you may not be sure if you actually press a button or not.
On the Core 300, everything can be controlled with a touch panel. As soon as you attach it to electricity, all buttons will light up as a sign that the Core 300 has power and is ready to use.
The “Power” button is used to turn the device on or off.
The “Fan Speed” button allows you to choose one of three fan speeds. Cycle through a low, medium, and high speed.
The “Sleep Mode” button will turn the sleep mode on, which will allow you to sleep completely uninterrupted by the air purifier. Not only the air purifier will start running at the lowest speed, but it will also reduce the brightness of touch boutons. In other words, less light will be emitted, and your sleep won’t be interrupted by it.
However, if the brightness is still too high for you to fall asleep, there is a “Display Off” button that will completely turn all lights off.
When using the display lock button, only the power button and display light button will work. Turning off child lock mode is done by holding the child lock button for 3 seconds.
The “Timer” button I have seen in many other air purifiers. It is, without a doubt, one of the most essential features.
A “Display Lock” is also a useful feature that will allow you to lock the touch panel. The only button that can be used is the power button when the display lock is on. If you want to unlock buttons, you need to hold the display lock button for 3 seconds. The filter indicator will let you know when is the time to change air filters.
Size and Dimensions
The Levoit Core 300 is lightweight (7.5 lb), as already mentioned, and that allows this air purifier to be portable. The plastic used in production is not slippery, and you will have a good grip when moving it.
Thanks to the small size (8.7 x 8.7 x 14.2 inches), it can easily be placed on a table, nightstand, working table, desktop, or anywhere else in the house.
Accessories and Parts
When you buy Levoit Core 300, you should get one air purifier with one True HEPA three-stage original filter, which will be pre-installed. User manual to read all you should do to start successfully as well as a quick start guide if the user manual is too long to read.
Levoit Core 300 Video Review
Finally, I have found a decent air purifier that does a job and even more. Check out all the details about Levoit Core 300 in the video. See all the tests I did and how well the Core 300 did in a room larger than recommended. Also, carefully check noise tests because if you are a light sleeper, maybe this air purifier is the best thing you can buy. In case you have any questions, ask us by commenting on the video below.
Features Overview
As I said before, there are not that many features that I can single out for the Core 300. But that doesn’t mean I will jump over and not mention at least a few of its features.
Powerful Motor
The already mentioned motor that pulls air is much better in the Core 300 than in the LV-H132 model, which makes the Core 300 a worthy successor.
Together with VortexAir Technology, the Core 300 air purifier creates strong airflow. AHAM certified CADR (Clean Air Delivery Rate) number is 230+ms/h. All of this allows this air purifier to be extremely useful in a room as large as 219 sq. ft.
The motor is durable and will work for ages thanks to the AC capacitor motor, which uses durable high precision bearing, which with excellent internal structure, increases abrasion resistance. In return, you get a motor with extended life.
Sleep Mode
Silent work is what makes Levoit Core 300 stand out in the pack. Thanks to QuietKEAP technology, this air purifier can work while you sleep.
Additionally, if needed, the display light can be shut down completely, allowing you to sleep in the completely dark.
As I have been using this air purifier in a bedroom, I find the sleep mode very useful and worth having.
Filter Replacing Indicator
The filter replacing indicator will let you know when filters need to be replaced. No need to mess with a filter before the light goes on. This indicator will help you get the maximum from the filter.
Core 300 has memory and will remember last used settings before shutting down. This memory allows it to use the same settings on the next run.
Timer
The Levoit Core 300 has a timer option built-in. The timer can be set to 2h, 4h, 6h, or 8h. And, after time passes, the air purifier will turn off.
Certificates
Levoit is a company with a good reputation, and because of that, the Core 300 has many certificates that prove the quality of work.
The most important certificate, without a doubt, is CARB, which means that this model is allowed to be used in California. We know that California has strict laws, and Levoit Core 300 has passed all of them.
Other than CARB, I need to mention the Energy Star certificate, which guarantees that Levoit Core 300 will use as little energy as possible and, in return, help the planet earth as well as your budget in the long run.
Warranty
Levoit gives a one-year warranty on this product. However, if you wish to get an additional year of warranty, you can do that by registering on http://levoit.com/bonus. Make sure you register within 14 days of purchasing the product. If you do that you will have a full two-year warranty.
Room Coverage and CADR
The Core 300 is intended for rooms up to 219 sq. ft. It will exchange the air in a room that big for 4.8 times in one hour.
The clean air delivery rate (CADR) for the Levoit Core 300 is 141 for smoke, 140 for dust, and 145 for pollen. CADR is measured in CFM, which stands for cubic ft. per minute.
There are many factors that you have to consider when deciding where you should use this device, primarily the room size. It is best to use it in rooms up to 219 sq. ft. You can use it in slightly bigger rooms, in which case you are going to use the third speed far more than usual.
Filtration Technology
Levoit Core 300 uses different types of air filters, which can be bought separately.
However, the original filter is in the initial package and the one I have used in this review. All the filters contain three stages, and all of them use a pre-filter and a True HEPA filter.
You’ll have to replace the filters once the filter indicator turns on. Basically, that’s a red light you will find on the control panel when it’s time to replace the old filter.
Keep in mind that it’s not wise to wash the HEPA filter because it might create mold. The HEPA filter and carbon filter are replaceable, and you should replace them from 6 to 8 months in this case.
You should never experiment with filters and use essential oils. This kind of experiment may be dangerous to your health as well as your property.
All filter packages have a nylon mesh pre-filter that does a great job at catching large particles and, in such a way, prolonging the life of the primary HEPA filter. Let’s see which filter is good for what.
Levoit Core 300 Replacement Filter
I have personally tested the Original filter, and this type of filter is more than enough to any decent home needs. In my tests, this filter proved extremely beneficial.
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.
Check Filter Price on AmazonFor a longer lifespan of HEPA and activated carbon filters, clean the pre-filter every 2–4 weeks. I have started to clean the pre-filter more often after I noticed the air purifier works better after the cleaning.
I got a few messages from users complaining about the smell that comes from new filters. Don’t worry, that can happen if the filter is wrapped in a plastic bag for too long. So, if you come into this situation, my advice would be to let the air purifier run for 24h in someplace you are not using it. In that way, the unit will get rid of bad smells.
Original Filter (Core 300-RF)
Just like the name says, this original filter will come with the air purifier. This filter is good at removing airborne particles as well as removing bad odors. It is very useful against allergens, dust, and not heavy odors.
The original filter combines a pre-filter, a True HEPA filter, and an activated carbon filter. Please, always use genuine filters from Levoit for the best performances. For this air purifier, you have to search for the Core 300-RF replacement filter.
Pet Allergy Filter
This advanced filter has all that the Original filter has, plus an additional high-efficiency activated carbon filter, which helps at removing strong odors. It is very effective against pet allergies, and strong odors like pet litter, cooking smell, or toilet odor.
Toxin Absorber Filter
Just like the Pet Allergy filter, this one also has all the benefits of the Original filter, but it also has an even stronger high-efficiency activated carbon filter. The powerful carbon filter is beneficial against strong odors, smoke, cigarette smoke, toxic fumes, VOCs, vehicle exhaust, and other toxic air pollution.
Mold Bacteria Filter
Mold Bacteria filter is focused more on organic pollution. It has all benefits of the Original filter plus an additional antibacterial filter that eliminates germs, as well as prevents the growth of bacteria and mold inside air purifiers.
If the Original filter is not good enough because you have a person that continuously smokes in a room, or maybe you have pets, then I suggest checking and get an additional filter dedicated to your needs.
How to Replace Levoit Core 300 Filter?
The 3-in-1 filter needs replacement every 6 to 8 months. However, if you notice a weird noise coming from an air purifier, low airflow, or clogging, or if the air purifier is not purifying air as before, then you should also look for a new filter.
Every two to four weeks, you need to clean the pre-filter to prolong the life of the primary filter.
If you are not pretty sure how to change your filter, please follow the steps I listed above. It will take just 5 mins, and your filter will be changed properly.
Total Time: 5 minutes
Taking out the old filter
Unplug air purifier. Remove filter cover and take out the old filter.
Vacuuming and cleaning inside
Wipe the inside of the air purifier of all dirt and dust. You can use a dry cloth or even vacuum cleaner to do that.
Placing the new filter inside
Unpack a new filter (Core 300-RF) and place it inside the air purifier.
Closing the filter cover
Put the cover back and close the filter door.
Resetting check filter indicator
Turn the air purifier on, press and hold Check Filter Indicator for 3 seconds.
Levoit Core 300 Filter – Before and After
I have conducted many tests over the Levoit Core 300 and used it for quite some time. Are you intrigued by how the filter looks before and after several-month usage? When I was alarmed by its filter replacement indicator that I should change the filter, I opened its cover and took a picture of the used filter, which can be seen in the image below.
Levoit Core 300 made remarkable results on our performance tests, now we confirmed it really does its job, and a filthy filter is an evident indicator.
It adsorbed various air pollutants like household dust, pet hair, smoke from the fireplace, and many others.
Noise Test
As always, I have tested noise levels on this model as well. I use a unique noise measurement tool that uses a dBA scale. This means that my results may be different than the original ones done by the manufacturer. This air purifier has three speeds, actually four if we count sleep mode as well.
Sleep mode runs on the lowest fan speed, which is lower than the first fan speed, and because of that, sleep mode on Core 300 is very useful and extremely quiet at work. Even if you can’t sleep with noise by placing this air purifier on sleep mode, you will sleep with no trouble. All thanks go to QuietKEAP Technology, which drastically reduces noise. Check the noise testing results in the table below.
| Speed | Value (dBA) |
|---|---|
| Sleep mode | 40.7 dBA |
| Speed 1 | 46.4 dBA |
| Speed 2 | 52.9 dBA |
| Speed 3 | 64.9 dBA |
The maximum noise level is around 64.9 dBA, which is, in my opinion, a bit loud if you plan to use it in the bedroom or any other quiet room.
Performance Tests
I also performed various performance tests in different room sizes. I used real-life testing, and no laboratory tests were done. In all tests, I used the Levoit Core 300 at its highest speed.
This small air purifier has excellent performance, and on the third speed, the airflow is impressive, which personally surprised me.
194 sq. ft. Room Test
This room is smaller than the recommended room size of 219 sq. ft., and because of that, the air purifier did an amazing job. Since the motor is also powerful in Core 300, the results did not surprise me at all.
In only one hour, AQI was reduced from 111 to 8. Air quality improved by 93%. In an additional 30 minutes, AQI was additionally reduced to 6.
| # | Starting Baseline | After 60min |
|---|---|---|
| PM 2.5 | 83.8 | 5.8 |
| PM 10 | 117.4 | 8.1 |
| Particles | 121651 | 8419 |
| AQI | 111 | 8 |
320 sq. ft. Room Test
This room is a bit larger than the recommended size. However, even in such a large room as well as much larger than the recommended one, Core 300 did an excellent job.
It improved air quality by 92% in only one hour. It reduced AQI from 145 to 12.
With Core 300, you will be extremely satisfied when you find out that it is efficiently purifying the air in a room larger than recommended.
With such great results, even in a bit larger room than recommended, it makes me say that this is definitely one of the best-buy air purifiers on the market.
| # | Starting Baseline | After 60min |
|---|---|---|
| PM 2.5 | 111.1 | 8.8 |
| PM 10 | 155.5 | 12.3 |
| Particles | 161125 | 12813 |
| AQI | 145 | 12 |
Operating Costs
As already mentioned under the certificates section, Levoit Core 300 is Energy Star certified, which means it uses very little energy to work. The maximum power that can be used by the Levoit Core 300 is 45W.
If you use it at maximum speed for 24h every day for a whole month, you will only spend 3.8$ if the energy price is 0.12$/kWh. While on standby, Core 300 is not using energy. Levoit says it will use less than 0.8W, by my test that is 0.2W.
However, operating costs will be high in a month when you will need to replace the filter. Also, buying additional filters to filter specific pollution will be an additional cost.
| Speed | Power Usage (W) |
|---|---|
| Standby | 0.8W |
| Speed 1 | 29.4W |
| Speed 2 | 31.4W |
| Speed 3 | 43.5W |
Levoit Support
Many people are unaware of how important customer support is until they get into a situation where they need help with a product.
Levoit, fortunately, has very good customer support, available through several different channels and, more recently, directly on the Levoit site.
Since I have tested a lot of air purifiers from Levoit and searched for many answers, I have chatted with their support a few times. What I noticed is that they are very helpful, but also that they respond the fastest on Facebook and through the live chat on the Levoit website.
Additionally, I have a big complaint about the chatbot available on the Levoit website, which is, to put it mildly, useless. The bot is not able to answer even the most basic questions.
Pros and Cons
To revise, here are the advantages and disadvantages of the Levoit Core 300:
Pros
Cons
FAQ on Levoit Core 300
Should I sleep with Core 300 turned on?
It’s safe to sleep with the Core 300 air purifier turned off. Your sleeping will be more pleasant with the sleep mode, which will reduce the noise level of Core 300, so it won’t disturb you.
Does Levoit Core 300 produce ozone?
No, it doesn’t. Levoit doesn’t have an ionizer or any other type of filtration which produces ozone.
Which HEPA filter does the Core 300 use?
It uses the True HEPA filter, which traps 99.97% of airborne particles from the air.
How long does it take for Core 300 to clean a room?
It depends on the room size. This model is capable of changing air up to 5 times in one hour in a room that is 219 sq. ft. large.
Where should you place this Levoit air purifier?
The best thing you can do is to test a few different spots in your room. Keep your air purifier away from wet or damp areas. Also, place it at a distance of 15 inches from other objects.
How long does the Core 300 filter last?
The filter usually lasts between 6 and 8 months. That period highly depends on your use of the air purifier, but please don’t forget to remove the plastic bag from the air filter before the first usage.
Is it easy to set up?
The Levoit Core 300 is easy to set up. It requires only one thing before starting to use it for the first time, which is unwrapping the filter from the plastic wrap.
Is it compact or big?
The Levoit Core 300 is a compact air purifier.
“AHAM certified CADR (Clean Air Delivery Rate) number is 230+ms/h”
False statement. There is not a single Levoit device in AHAM database.
I believe it was in the AHAM directory when I first reviewed it (about 3 years ago). Otherwise, I wouldn’t have included that information in the review.
However, it’s Energy Star rated and tested for CADR, which matches what I mentioned in the review: 140 CFM (around 237 m³/h).
I’m a new user & so far very happy with the model 300. It’s simple, quiet and appears to well circulate air through its filters. I’m curious as to what an average daily run time might be for 250-350 sq. ft rooms? Just wanting to keep clear out typical city apartment (non smoker) particulates. Thanks…
I suggest keeping the air purifier on as much as possible, ideally 24/7. This will ensure that the air quality in your rooms is always clean.
I would only turn it off when I’m not at home for a while.
Can I use this air purifier in a 6×22 camper with a gas stove and gas heat? Manual says do not use where combustible gases, vapor, aerosol sprays (does that include hair spray?) are present.
As the manual says, you shouldn’t use it in specific situations.
Hey Milan. We love these Core 300’s! Quiet and they do the job. We noticed recently we accidentally left the filter cover a bit open and not completely closed after the last cleaning on the one in bedroom. Any danger to our health? Thanks.
Hi, you don’t have to be worried, just fully close it on the next cleaning cycle.
I accidentally ran the unit 4 hours without the hepa bag being removed. Should i expect damage?
I don’t think you made any damage.
Thanks again Milan. I bought the Core 300S from your recommendation and can confirm that. This will replace a Blueair 411 in a ~120 square feet bedroom. I originally didn’t have plans to replace the 411 especially since its design matches the room better, but I didn’t like how the Blueair 411 left soot on nearby furnitures. Even the white shiny plastic ‘head’ and grey wire of the Blueair has soot. I’m not sure if this is because of the ion chamber inside it. The fact that the Core 300/S have different filter options and supposedly a better carbon filter (though some other review sites claim the Core 300S doesn’t use carbon pellets) led me to get one.
The Core 300s has a slightly louder level 1 than Blueair 411, but probably because the Core 300S is meant for slightly larger rooms so it would normally have a larger or more capable fan. At the end of the day the sound is similar to a split indoor AC unit. But overall the noise of the Core 300S (even at level 2 or 3) sounds slightly more pleasant than the Blueair 411. The 411 has a jarring whirl noise, but the Core 300s sounds a little “smoother”. I don’t know if if it’s because the Core 300S fan has a larger diameter or it’s Levoit’s “KeepQuiet” technology.
As for AirSight Plus, so far it seems to report 5–7 for the air quality if the unit is off (even if all day) and then goes down to 1 when it’s on. I would be happy if the reporting is a pretty accurate representation since the particulate sensor is on the back of the purifier. I don’t know if that affects the accuracy since others say it’s better to have it on the side or front of the purifier especially since my Core 300S is situated near the middle of the room, but it’s about 15″ (40cm) away from the wall. It’s now sitting on the floor, but since the Core 300S is “shorter” than the 411 do you think it would be better to elevate the Core 300S by placing it on a desk or similar in a room that is 8ft in height?
Thank you for your valuable input Milan. “Pretty good” is good enough for me for something ‘extra’ that just so happens to be included in a purifier. I do plan to eventually get a dedicated particulate sensor, but I’m not sure when that will be so it’s good to know that AirSight Plus isn’t a bust. Initially I was afraid that it will be too unreliable especially since it’s what triggers Auto mode. My other plan if there was no air purifier with a decent particulate sensor is to get a ‘smart’ particulate sensor and use it to trigger the Core 300S since it’s internet-connected so might be able to add it to third-party home solutions like HomeKit.
Levoit offers setting the sensitivity of the auto mode through the VeSync app. That means if you don’t like how the auto mode works you can modify it through the app by setting it to normal mode, quiet mode, or efficient auto mode (a fully editable mode).
Since I can’t find a separate post for the Levoit Core 300S, I hope you don’t mind me asking this here.
I have a question in particular to the particulate sensor of the Core 300S: Do you think it’s accurate? I noticed that you use a separate particulate tester and I was wondering if you ever put it near the Core 300S and see if both show the same results? I’m thinking a sensor that’s built onto a purifier may not be the best tool since the air surrounding it will be cleaner than the rest of the room which is why I was thinking if maybe you’ve at least tested side-by-side. That way your dedicated particulate tester will be in a level playing field. If the Levoit is at least accurate being where it is, then I will be content.
I ask because air purifiers seems to be notorious for having ‘cheap’ particulate sensors in them and since Levoit advertises this feature (“AirSight Plus”) like it’s supposed to be good, I can’t help but be curious if it lives up to that at least.
Hi, unfortunately, I haven’t tested the Core 300S yet, but recently, I tested the Core 400S. It uses AirSight Plus technology as well as the Core 300S, and it’s not as 100% accurate, but it is pretty good.
I don’t think there is any difference in performance for Core 300 and Core 300S.
useful optional filters, but why not at initial purchase time? else have to wait until ‘original’ degrades, or effectively discard it.. and wish i’d known of 300s before buying one of these!
Don’t know why the Levoit doesn’t allow buyers to choose a filter when buying a Levoit Core 300. The good thing here is that the filters aren’t that expensive.
I haven’t tested it yet, but based on specifications, I think the Core 300s is the same as the Core 300, but with the Wi-Fi addition.
Hi there, thanks for the comprehensive review! How do you clean the pre-filter to extend the lifespan?
Hi, thanks for your comment!
I use a vacuum cleaner to perform the cleaning of the pre-filter. You can take a look at this video, where I have explained more about pre-filters.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T2HV_DLH4pc
At 2:49, I have shown the cleaning process of a few different pre-filters types.
Thank you for your reviews! I was wondering, do you do your own power consumption tests, or are they simply supplied by the manufacturer? I noticed on some of your reviews you’d mention a different stand-by number from what is on the tables.
Thanks for the kind comment. I do power consumption tests on my own, so there are sometimes deviations from the manufacturer’s data.
Hello,
How well does this unit filter cigarette smoke, virus particles, and allergens? Is the company looking to build a unit that has an auto mode with sensors that detects particles like dyson? Speaking of dyson have you performed any tests on those units? thanks again
If you are a very passionate smoker, then this device might not be powerful enough. You could look for some bigger air purifiers like Winix 5500-2.
Levoit already has a few smart models: Levoit Core 200s, Levoit LV-PUR131s, and others.
I haven’t tested the Dyson yet, but I will definitely in the future.