Membrane Solutions MSA3 Air Purifier – Hands-on Review

Full Review

To better understand the air purifier market, I strive to buy and test models from various manufacturers as much as possible.

This time, I’m reviewing the Membrane Solutions MSA3 air purifier. It’s a relatively new model on the market, lacking major innovations but receiving many positive reviews.

It is suitable for rooms up to 175 sq. ft. (16.3 m²), uses three-stage filtration technology, and does not produce ozone.

What I like about this device is its unique design, affordable price, and solid performance.

However, there are some aspects that could be improved—keep reading to find out what they are.

How We Tested the Membrane Solutions MSA3?

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 Membrane Solutions MSA3 in two separate performance tests, one in a 194 sq. ft. (18 m²) room and the other in a 320 sq. ft. (30 m²) room. Then, we recorded the initial air quality values using the Temtop laser particle meter and let the Membrane Solutions MSA3 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 Membrane Solutions MSA3 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 Membrane Solutions MSA3 is an air purifier designed for rooms up to 175 sq. ft. (16.3 m²). It can clean the air 4.8 times per hour in spaces of this size.

Although the manufacturer claims that this model is suitable for slightly larger rooms, I wouldn’t recommend using it in spaces significantly larger than the recommended size. Why? You’ll find out after seeing the results of our performance tests.

If you need an air purifier for larger rooms, the Xiaomi 4 Lite or Levoit Core 600S may be a better option.

We tested the Membrane Solutions MSA3 in two rooms of different sizes—the results are below.

Testing in a 194 sq. ft. (18 m²) Room

In the first test, we placed the Membrane Solutions MSA3 in a 194 sq. ft. (18 m²) room.

Running at maximum speed for 60 minutes, it improved air quality by 92%, which is a solid result.

For comparison, the Medify MA-25 achieved a 94% improvement in the same test.

Testing in a 320 sq. ft. (30 m²) Room

In the second test, we placed the Membrane Solutions MSA3 in a 320 sq. ft. (30 m²) room, which is significantly larger than its recommended coverage.

Running at maximum speed for 60 minutes, it improved air quality by 89%.

The MSA3 reduced PM2.5 levels from 97.5 to 10.3 µg/m³.

Although not as strong as in the previous test, this is still an excellent result.

Performance – Smoke Removal Test

The Membrane Solutions MSA3 delivered an impressive performance in the smoke test, and I must say I was pleasantly surprised.

It cleared all the smoke from the glass box in just 30 seconds, which is a solid result, especially for an air purifier with a CADR of 112 CFM (190 m³/h).

Compared to similar air purifiers, the Membrane Solutions MSA3 ranks somewhere in the middle.

For example, the Levoit Core 300S performed even better—despite being a much smaller device, it took only 20 seconds. On the other hand, the GermGuardian AC4825 took about 38 seconds to remove all the smoke.

All in all, the Membrane Solutions MSA3 performed well in this test, achieving a very good result.

The Membrane Solutions MSA3 has only three fan speeds. Don’t be misled by the “Turbo” button, which is simply the third speed, or the “Sleep” button, which is actually the first speed.

Despite having just three speeds, the MSA3 is highly optimized and impressively quiet. I would gladly use it in my bedroom.

At its lowest speed, the Membrane Solutions MSA3 produces just 43.1 dBA of noise. While some air purifiers are even quieter (see the chart), it is still one of the quietest.

At maximum speed, it produces 54.3 dBA, making it one of the quietest air purifiers at full power.

Another important detail is that the motor operates smoothly, without any unusual noises, knocking, or sounds that might irritate the user.

Overall, the Membrane Solutions MSA3 is a well-optimized, quiet air purifier.

The Membrane Solutions MSA3 is powered by a 44W motor, which is above average compared to air purifiers with similar CADRs.

For example, the Levoit Core 300 uses a motor of similar power yet delivers slightly better performance.

The MSA3 consumes approximately 27W at its lowest speed and 39.2W at maximum speed but uses a negligible 0.2W in standby mode.

If you run the device at maximum speed, 24 hours a day, for one month, it will add approximately $3.44 to your electricity bill—a small cost considering the benefits it provides.

However, compared to similar air purifiers, the MSA3 ranks among the highest in power consumption at maximum speed (see the chart above).

For instance, the Coway Airmega 100 would cost only $1.95 under the same conditions.

Beyond electricity costs, you also need to factor in replacement filters, which typically need to be replaced every 3 to 6 months.

The price of replacement filters is slightly higher than that of some comparable air purifiers. When combined with its higher energy consumption, the Membrane Solutions MSA3 is less affordable for long-term maintenance.

Filtration Technology

The Membrane Solutions MSA3 uses a classic 3-in-1 filter. The filter is placed on the front of the unit and occupies the entire surface area on the front.

The filter does not require any special maintenance. My advice, however, is to clean the pre-filter at least once a month with a vacuum cleaner or a dry cloth. This helps to keep the machine working at its best and preserve the other filters. I would like to point out that the filters are not washable and should never be immersed in water.

Pre-filter

The pre-filter is the first stage of filtration, and its primary purpose is to capture hair, dander, and fibers.

This filtration layer is essential as the pre-filter preserves and maintains the HEPA filter, thus prolonging the filter replacement time. In addition, this is a crucial layer of filtration if you intend to use the air purifier in rooms where pets are kept, as a lot of pet hair accumulates on them.

The True HEPA Filter

A true HEPA filter is the second layer of filtration. It is also the most important filter in the air purifier. Its primary purpose is to capture smoke, dust, pollen, and other allergens from the air, which are as small as 0.3 microns.

Carbon Filter

The last layer of filtration, which is responsible for removing gases, is the carbon filter. Essentially, the carbon filter quickly captures and neutralizes bad odors, pet odors, and VOCs to freshen the air condition.

To be honest, I am not happy with the performance of this filter; it takes a very long time to remove gases from the room. I think the reason for this is that the MSA3 uses a minimal amount of carbon pellets, which are also rarely distributed.

How to Replace the Membrane Solutions MSA3 Filter?

The process of changing the filter on the MSA3 air purifier is straightforward. The filter lasts on average 2000 hours, which means that you will usually replace it between 3 and 6 months. Of course, I recommend that you check the filter condition regularly. If the filter is dirtier than it should be, you can change it a little earlier.

As I mentioned at the beginning of the review, you don’t have to worry so much about the timing of filter changes because the MSA3 lets you know when it’s time to change it by lighting up the indicator above the “Reset” button.

Total time: 10 minutes.

Installation and Setup

MSA3 membrane solutions do not require any special preparation before first use. As with many air purifiers, the essential thing is to prepare the filter. The filter is ready by removing it from the device, unpacking it, and returning it to the device.

This is a crucial step, and I mention it often because I have noticed that many users skip this part. Unfortunately, skipping, leaving the filter packed makes the device useless because it will not filter the air and cause overheating and device failure.

After unpacking the filter, place the device in the desired location, make sure it is at least 15 inches away from other objects, and finally switch it on and clean the air in the room.

Design

The Membrane Solutions MSA3 is an air purifier available in white color. The build quality is solid, and the plastic is of good quality, although it looks a bit cheap. However, I don’t like such smooth plastic because fingerprints are left behind when you touch it, so the device will look dirty in this case.

It is commendable that the MSA3 has a slot on the top of the device used for location-to-location transfer. I also really like that the power cord is very long. All this makes it much easier to set up and place the device in the desired location.

I do not like the filter cover design, which is sometimes a little challenging to open. In addition, the filter is very strangely placed in the device, so care must be taken not to damage it when removing it. I will say more about this in the section on replacing the filter.

Overall, the white color suits this appliance very well. It does not look intrusive, and I think it fits in with most furniture in almost any environment.

Control Buttons

The control buttons on the MSA3 air purifier are located at the front, arranged in two “strips” horizontally. There are indicators below or next to the buttons which glow blue. I am not used to the indicators glowing blue, and I can say that I like this change and variety compared to other devices.

The buttons are touch-sensitive; they respond nicely to touch. However, what I do not like and confuses me is the look and color of the buttons, which somehow blend in with the color of the device, so pressing some buttons is confusing (for example, the Timer button). The buttons on the control panel are filter reset, turbo speed, sleep mode, light switch, lock, power, timer, and fan speed.

Airflow

I have tested many devices with air movement following the same principle as the MSA3. The MSA3 membrane solutions draw air on the front, specifically through the openings on the sides and bottom.

The air is then filtered through a three-stage filtration and exits through the openings at the top of the device.

Size and Dimensions

The air purifier weighs 13.7 lb (6.2 kg). The dimensions of the device are: 19,5 x 33,4 x 54,5 cm (7.7 x 13.1 x 21.5 inches).

What’s in the box?

When you buy the device, you get an MSA3 Membrane Solutions Air Purifier, 3-in-1 filter, and user manual. The device is packed as standard; I would like to point out that the packaging is slightly reinforced, contributing to greater safety during transport.

Features

The MSA3 Membrane Solutions have the standard features that we are used to in many air purifiers. There are no features that set this model apart from the competition, such as an air quality sensor, the ability to connect to a smart app, or some of the similar options we expect in this price range.

I have the impression that some buttons have been placed on the device just to make it look richer. So pressing “Turbo” mode switches to Speed 3 or pressing “Sleep” mode to Speed 1. Basically, all this can be done with 1-2 presses, so I think these buttons (Turbo and Sleep) are unnecessary. Below I will describe some of the basic abilities that I believe are the most important for this model.

Light Control Lights

To turn on the light on indicators on the device, you need to press the “Light” button. Pressing this button turns off all the indicators except the indicator above the “Light” button. To be honest, I see no reason why this indicator should not also be switched off because people who intend to use this device in the bedroom and who cannot tolerate any light will also be disturbed by this small indicator.

Timer

The Membrane Solutions MSA3 uses a timer option that allows the device to be switched off after a specific time. The timer can be set between 1-8h. As the MSA3 cannot work in combination with a smart plug, this timer is handy as a partial replacement.

Button Lock

To lock and disable all buttons, you need to hold your finger on the “Lock” button for 3 seconds. After that, pressing any button will no longer be registered. This is a perfect option if you have small children and want to avoid pushing any button unintentionally and changing the mode or switching off the device. To unlock the air purifier, hold your finger on the button again for 3 seconds.

Filter Reset Indicator

I think this is an indispensable option when it comes to air purifiers. In addition, the filter reset indicator lets you know when it’s time to change the filter. This way, you don’t have to scratch your head or keep track of when you need to change the filter. Plus, you can check how much time is left until the filter needs replacing. This information is displayed just below the “Power” button.

Room Coverage and CADR

The Membrane Solutions MSA3 is an air purifier designed for rooms up to 175 sq. ft. (16.3 m²). Based on the information in the product listing, Membrane Solutions claims that this unit can purify the air in a 420 sq. ft. room up to twice per hour. However, I recommend not using the MSA3 in rooms larger than 175 sq. ft. (16.3 m²). The Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) for the MSA3 is 112 CFM (190 m³/h). I think this model fits perfectly in a bedroom or a smaller living room. It is also not a bad choice for an office.

Customer Service and Warranty

MSPure is the brand behind Membrane Solutions Corporation. They offer a 2-year warranty for this model, but you must register the product on their website for a full warranty.

The customer support is excellent; I got answers to all the questions I asked; whether you contact them through Facebook or by email, they are very helpful.

FAQ on Membrane Solutions MSA3