Table of Contents
Smoke Test Performance
Specifications
| Manufacturer | Philips |
| Model | Series 800 |
| Dimensions (inches / cm) | 14.4 x 9.8 x 9.8 inches (36.7 x 25 x 25 cm) |
| Weight (pounds / kg) | 5.3 lb (2.4 kg) |
| Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) | 112 CFM (190 m³/h) |
| Filtration Technology | Pre-filter, NanoProtect HEPA Filter, and Activated Carbon Filter |
| Filter Replacement Indicator | Yes |
| Filter Life | up to 12 months |
| Number of Fan Speeds | 3 – Sleep Mode, Auto Mode, and Turbo Mode |
| Air Quality Sensor Air Quality Sensor Summary: Out of 83 air purifiers tested, only 41 have the air quality sensor. | Yes |
| Air Quality Indicator | Yes |
| Auto Mode Auto Mode Summary: Out of 83 air purifiers tested, only 42 have auto mode functionality. | Yes |
| Smart App Smart App Summary: Out of 83 air purifiers tested, only 26 have smart app functionality. | No |
| Voice Control Voice Control Summary: Out of 83 air purifiers tested, only 25 have voice control functionality. | No |
| Other Features | Sleep Mode |
| 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. | 176 sq. ft. (16 m²) |
| Performance Ratings Performance Ratings Score Summary: 8.3 - Average Score (83 products) 9.8 - Best Score (2 products) 1 - Worst Score (1 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 83 air purifiers revealed the following power consumption insights:
Check out our power consumption calculator tool. | 20W |
| Operating Costs Ratings Operating Costs Ratings Score Summary: 9 - Average Score (83 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) | 41.8 – 62.8 dBA |
| Noise Ratings Noise Ratings Score Summary: 9.3 - Average Score (83 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 | Bedrooms Allergies Low Energy Cost Small Spaces |
| Warranty | 2-year |
Full Review
The Philips Series 800 (AC0830) is a small, compact, cylindrical air purifier with several advanced options and high-quality filter technology. Philips makes serious, competitive, quality air purifiers, and this is the first model I decided to try in their range. This small air purifier is available almost worldwide, with some different features depending on the market.
According to AHAM standards, the Philips Series 800 covers rooms up to 176 sq. ft., which means that in a room of these dimensions, this air purifier will purify the air as much as 4.8 times in one hour. However, this small air purifier performed very well in tests in rooms slightly larger than the recommended dimensions.
The Philips Series 800 is a minimalist air purifier, it doesn’t have many advanced options, but it does have an air quality sensor, an air quality indicator, and auto mode options, which are more than enough to optimize daily use of the device. I have to say that this air purifier reminds me of many popular cylindrical air purifiers, of which there have been many on the market lately.
At first look, this air purifier may look like a standard air purifier you probably have seen already. Many different companies have released their model for small rooms. However, Phillips is known as a brand that always releases high-quality devices.
I spent some time testing this little air purifier in various conditions, examined it in detail, and finally decided whether it was worth buying. Read on to find out what makes the Philips 800 series so special and what are its advantages and disadvantages.
Setup and Installation
By the way, air purifiers are known for not requiring any advanced and time-consuming preparation before the first start-up, but a few steps still need to be taken to make sure everything is ready for the initial run.
To start with, the most important step is to remove the filter from the casing, from the bottom of the device, then unpack it from the plastic bag and insert it back into the device. This completes the most important step, as not unpacking the filter can lead to possible overheating and possible damage to the device. In addition, the device cannot serve its purpose without a functional filter.
Once you have prepared the filter, you need to unpack the adapter, connect it to the appliance, connect it to the electricity, and switch on the air purifier. Note that this air purifier has a slightly unusual starting system, and to switch it on, you need to switch from 0 to 1 on the button located at the back of the device, somewhere near the bottom.
Design
The Philips Series 800 is a cylindrical air purifier of very good quality and a beautiful design. The model I tested is gray in color, looks very modern, and fits easily into almost any environment. Philips has a few other models in other colors, but the most common is white.
This air purifier is made up of two parts, the lower part contains the filter, and the upper part contains the fan and the touch control button.
The build quality is very good, the device is much lighter than I first thought, but it is very stable. It is not cumbersome during operation; in short, the whole construction of the device is of top quality.
What I could criticize are the carrying handles, which are absent, and the power button, which is located at the back and is somewhat inaccessible. However, since this is a small device, grabbing it with two hands and moving it should not be a problem. Everything else about this model is without reservation, and I think that the Philips 800 air purifier fits easily into almost any environment.
Controls
When it comes to the device controls, there isn’t much to say. The controls of this model consist of two phases. The first phase is to switch on the device, which is done by pressing a button on the back. The second phase is to operate the device using the touch button located on the top of the device.
In addition to switching the operating mode, the touch button also serves as a filter reset indicator. Basically, each press of the button switches between sleep mode, auto mode and turbo mode, and so on in a circle.
To be honest, I don’t like this solution with a separate and inaccessible starting button, but I don’t think it’s a big deal because this is a very interesting, reliable, and high-quality air purifier.
Airflow
This air purifier is cylindrical in shape, with air inlets arranged on all sides, occupying the lower half of the unit. The air enters through these openings, is filtered, and exits through the openings on the upper side of the device.
Size and Dimensions
The air purifier weighs 5.3 lb (2,4 kg). The dimensions of the device are: 14.4 x 9.8 x 9.8 inches (36,7 x 25 x 25 x 25 cm). The Philips Series 800 is small and compact, so it easily finds its place on an office desk, bedside table, or any other place where space is somehow limited.
What’s in the box?
When you buy the device, you will receive an air purifier with a 3-in-1 HEPA filter (pre-installed), power adapter, and user manual. Before you connect the air purifier to the electricity and start the process of purifying the air in your room, I recommend that you carefully study the information I have written in the setup and installation section.
Features Overview
The Philips Series 800 is basically a small air purifier without many advanced options and can perhaps be classified as a minimalist air purifier like the Blueair 411 Auto, which reminds me a lot of the Philips in terms of options.
However, Phillips is not completely naked; it has some of its own advantages and advanced options that justify the name, make it a better choice, and, most importantly, make it easier for the average user to use the device on a daily basis.
Air Quality Sensor and Air Quality Indicator
The air quality sensor is what sets the Philips Series 800 apart from other competing air purifiers. This sensor is located on the back of the device, and it can detect PM2.5 particles in real-time and works in combination with some other options such as the air quality indicator and the auto mode.
This sensor is always active and collects information on the current air quality, while the air quality indicator, which is basically an LED light located around the knob, glows in a different color depending on the current air quality.
In the table below, I have shown how the air quality indicator works and what color it lights up depending on the current air quality. I must say that the auto mode also uses these values to switch the operating mode and the fan speed.
| PM2.5 level | Air quality light color | Air quality level |
|---|---|---|
| ≤12 | Blue | Good |
| 13-35 | Blue-purple | Fair |
| 36-55 | Purple-red | Poor |
| 55 | Red | Very poor |
Auto Mode
Auto mode is an option that works in combination with the air quality sensor so that when the unit is in auto mode, it automatically switches the operating mode and fan speed according to the current air quality.
Although the Philips Series 800 does not have a smart application and frankly does not have that many options, I have to say that I am very positively surprised by the Auto Mode option and that it is an option that raises the quality of this device to a whole new level.
Filter Reset Indicator
A filter reset indicator is a fantastic option that allows you to easily keep track of the filter replacement time. This indicator is not always visible; it is located just below the control knob and will only light up red when it is time to change the filter.
Given that the filter on this machine lasts up to 12 months, this is a much-needed feature, and I believe it makes it easier for many users to keep track of when to change the filter.
Warranty
Philips is a serious global company and I therefore really like the fact that they provide a warranty that is available worldwide. So once you register your device for warranty, you can use it at an authorized Philips service center anywhere in the world. Philips gives a 2-year warranty on this model, which is the industry standard and quite sufficient for this type of device.
Room Coverage and CADR
As I have said many times before, I recommend the Philips 800 Series air purifier for rooms up to 176 sq. ft. In a room of this size, this air purifier will clean the air 4.8 times, which is the industry standard. This air purifier has 190 m³/h of clean air (CADR), which is very good considering its dimensions.
Let’s say in a room of 430 sq. ft., this air purifier will clean the air twice in one hour, which means that in a room of this size, there are 2 ACH. This is perhaps the reason why this air purifier scored very well on the performance tests in a room larger than the recommended dimensions.
Overall, I would recommend this air purifier for a bedroom, small living room, kitchen, or other small room. I also think that this device would be perfect in a modern office.
Filtration Technology
The Philips Series 800 air purifier uses 3-stage filtration technology with an innovative manufacturing technology that is unique to Philips air purifiers. The filter is cylindrical in shape, hollow in the center, and almost identical to the filters in many competing air purifiers.
Commendably, it is a high-quality filter that drastically improves the air quality in the room. It is important to note that the filter is not washable, so it needs to be changed from time to time, but it is also very durable and can last up to 12 months.
Philips Series 800 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.
Check Filter Price On AmazonPre-filter
The first stage of filtration in the Philips 800 air purifier is the pre-filter, which is designed to trap larger dust particles, hair, pet hair, etc. In this way, this filter also extends the life of the HEPA filter, making it an extremely important filtration stage.
I recommend cleaning this filter regularly as you will not only extend the life of the HEPA filter but also keep the quality of filtration at a consistently high level.
NanoProtect HEPA Filter
The second stage of filtration is the NanoProtect HEPA filter, which traps dust particles, pollen, allergens, and similar particles from the air, drastically improving the air quality.
I wish Philips used a True HEPA filter, but that’s not the case, as the True HEPA filter is much more efficient and reliable than the NanoProtect HEPA or other similar filters. However, performance tests have shown that this is not necessarily a big disadvantage and that despite not having a True HEPA filter, this air purifier performs fantastically.
Activated Carbon Filter
The activated carbon filter is the final stage of filtration, and its purpose is to neutralize odors, unpleasant smells, and similar toxic particles from the air.
I like the fact that Philips uses a carbon pellet-based filter, which is much more reliable and efficient than ordinary carbon-coated fibrous filters. In short, this filter is very much the reason for the good results in the smoke test, but also for the good results in the tests in the kitchen and similar rooms where it is necessary to neutralize unpleasant odors.
How to Replace the Philips Series 800 Filter?
It is important to understand that the Philips Series 800 air purifier uses a filter that is not washable and needs to be replaced from time to time.
Fortunately, the filter on this model lasts up to 12 months, making it one of the longest-lasting filters on the market, comparable to the filters in some larger air purifiers such as the Coway AP-1512HH.
Philips uses a filter reset indicator that lets you know when it’s time to replace the filter. In addition to regular filter changes, I would definitely recommend maintaining and cleaning the pre-filter at least once a month, maybe twice a month.
However, if you are using the air purifier in a room with pets, then I would recommend more frequent cleaning due to the potentially higher build-up of dust, hair, and similar particles. By cleaning the pre-filter, you protect the HEPA filter and prolong its life, keeping the efficiency of the appliance at a high level at all times.
Noise Test
The Philips 800 Series air purifier has basically three modes of operation: sleep mode, auto mode, and turbo mode, but basically only two fixed modes of operation. I have noticed that in sleep mode, this air purifier is extremely quiet and can easily be used in a bedroom or similar room. In this mode, Philips makes a volume of only 41.8 dBA.
In Turbo mode, however, the situation is slightly different, and this device is slightly louder but still not too loud.
Finally, the Auto mode is the most different and does not have a clearly defined noise level, as in this mode, the device varies its speed according to the current air quality in the room. However, as I tested each device in detail, I did the same with this one, and I tested the volume in auto mode, and I found that in this mode, the Philips Series 800 produces a range of sound from 41.8 – 62.8 dBA. It actually switches between four different speeds when on auto mode.
| Speed | Value (dBA) |
|---|---|
| Sleep Mode | 41.8 dBA |
| Auto Mode | 41.8 – 62.8 dBA |
| Turbo Mode | 62.8 dBA |
To be honest, the Philips Series 800 reminds me more and more of the Levoit Core 300 in terms of looks, performance, and loudness in sleep mode and at maximum speed, so I will be happy to compare these two fantastic devices in detail in the near future.
In short, the Philips Series 800 air purifier is not too loud, and thanks to the Sleep Mode option, it easily finds its way into the bedroom, as well as into any other larger space such as the living room, thanks to the extremely powerful Turbo Mode.
Performance Tests
The performance test is one of the most important tests of any air purifier, and Philips has met all my expectations here. Not only did it achieve excellent results on the performance tests in a room of the recommended dimensions, but this device also significantly improved the air quality in a slightly larger room.
Most importantly, Philips has lived up to its name. It has shown that it is a high-quality air purifier and that it is competitive with other similar air purifiers in its class.
I would also point out that I recommend the Philips Series 800 air purifier in rooms up to 176 sq. ft. because, in a room of this size, this air purifier will purify the air 4.8 times which is the industry standard used by AHAM.
194 sq. ft. Room Test
In the first test, in a room of 194 sq. ft., which is slightly larger than the recommended dimensions, I turned on the Philips 800 air purifier at maximum speed and left it running for 60 minutes. During this time, this air purifier improved the air quality by about 93%, bringing the AQI down from 122 to 9.
| # | Starting Baseline | After 60min |
|---|---|---|
| PM 2.5 | 93 | 6.5 |
| PM 10 | 130.2 | 9.1 |
| Particles | 134860 | 9426 |
| AQI | 122 | 9 |
I have to say that this is an excellent result and much better than expected, especially as this air purifier does not use a True HEPA filter.
320 sq. ft. Room Test
In the second test, this time in a much larger room than the recommended dimensions, Philips also achieved a very good result. In a room of 320 sq. ft., this air purifier improved the air quality by about 91% in 60 minutes of operation at maximum speed.
| # | Starting Baseline | After 60min |
|---|---|---|
| PM 2.5 | 101.9 | 8.4 |
| PM 10 | 142.7 | 11.8 |
| Particles | 147856 | 12324 |
| AQI | 133 | 12 |
Although not as good a result as in the previous test, I am very satisfied and recommend the Philips Series 800 for slightly larger rooms than the recommended dimensions.
Operating Costs
The Philips Series 800 needs very little energy to work. This device literally consumes less electricity than the average light bulb. What really surprised me about this model is that the 20W motor has such a high airflow, allowing this device to be used in slightly larger rooms than the recommended dimensions.
If you were to leave this air purifier running in Turbo mode, 24 hours a day, for a period of one month, your electricity bill would increase by approximately USD 1.6, which you agree is almost a paltry cost considering the benefits you get from using this device.
| Speed | Power Usage (W) |
|---|---|
| Sleep Mode | 2.2W |
| Auto Mode | 2.2W – 17.5W |
| Turbo Mode | 17.5W |
If you add to the electricity consumption the cost of replacement filters, which are not too expensive and need to be changed on average once a year, then it is easy to conclude that the Philips Series 800 is an extremely affordable air purifier for annual maintenance.
Therefore, I can safely say that this is one of the most affordable air purifiers in this class that I have tested so far.
FAQ on Philips Series 800
What is the difference between Philips AC0830 and AC0820?
The biggest difference between these two models is the color and filtration technology. The Philips AC0830, the model I tested, is grey in color and uses 3-stage filtration technology, while the Philips AC0820 is available in white and uses 2-stage filtration technology.
Is the Philips Series 800 air purifier effective?
The Philips Series 800 captures 99.5% of ultrafine particles as small as 0.003 microns, so you are safe from PM2.5, bacteria, pollen, dust, pet hair, odors, and other pollutants. On top of all this, it has performed exceptionally well in performance tests, as well as in the smoke test.
Does the Philips Series 800 produce ozone?
No. This air purifier does not use an ionizer, UV-C light, or any other filter technology that could cause ozone production, which means it is completely ozone-free and safe to use.
Can I wash the filter of my Philips air purifier?
Unfortunately, the filters of the Philips 800 Series Air Purifier cannot be washed! However, I recommend regular cleaning and maintenance of the pre-filter at least once a month.
I have a question regarding orientation. I am new to these devices and just bought the 800i. The air quality sensor is on the back of the unit. Does that sensor work properly when it is facing a wall?
It would be better if it faced the center of the room instead of the wall. However, that’s not always possible, so the best you can do is move it as far away from the wall as possible.
Hi, helpful review!
I am in the process of buying my first-ever air purifier and have looked at some Levoit and Philips devices. Philips looks more appealing to me, and the two brands I am looking at are the 600 and 800. The room in which I am using it is only 8SQM, so I do not need a powerful one.
The main difference I am seeing is that the 600 uses only 12W compared to the 800’s 20W. 600 also has a medium manual speed setting along with the sleep and turbo, but 800 only has sleep and turbo. The 600 does not have carbon filters, though (I have contacted Philips regarding the possibility of selling them in the future).
I just want to ask because I am very much an energy-saving type of person, and I will probably be using it 24 hours a day. Will I likely be saving more money in the long term if I get the 600? As I understand, the auto mode on these devices will scan the room and switch to sleep whenever it needs to, so I’m assuming the 800 will clean the room quicker than the 600 and remain in sleep for longer? But the 600 will probably stay on for longer because it has a lower CADR.
Hi, thanks for your comment!
I bought the Philips 600i air purifier a month ago, and I’m in the process of testing it. I’ll publish the review in the coming weeks. Also, I will compare these two models you are talking about in the following months.
You are right about the differences between these two Philips air purifiers.
It’s true that the Philips 600i has a lower CADR than the 800 model, but the difference isn’t significant. If one of your main goals is to save on energy bills, you could achieve some savings by choosing the Philips 600i air purifier. However, the difference is minor and only amounts to a few cents.
Additionally, if gas and odor neutralization are among your main concerns, I would recommend skipping the Philips 600i and getting the Philips 800 instead. Because, as you already said, it has an activated carbon filter.
Hope this helps!
You’re a fantastic researcher and did a great job comparing these two air purifiers!
Hi,
Great review!
I have just bought the 800i for our living room. We already have a 2000i in our bedroom, and it has all but eliminated my hay fever (when inside the house) over the last 2.5 years of owning it! So, I figured it would be easier to buy a second unit rather than keep taking the 2000i up to the bedroom every night and bring it back down the next morning!! Went for a smaller unit this time (also 2 1/2 times cheaper than the 2000i) as the 2000i is quite big and isn’t exactly discreet!! It’s like having R2-D2 sat in the corner of the room!!
Thank you for sharing your positive experience with the 2000i! It’s great to hear how it has made a difference in managing your hay fever and helped clean the air in your home. I’m always here to help if you need further assistance or advice!
If comparing this model with Xiaomi smart air purifier 4 Pro, which one is better?
I haven’t tested the Xiaomi Smart Air Purifier 4 Pro yet, but it appears to be larger and more powerful. Thus, I would choose it over the Philips Series 800. A more appropriate comparison might be between the Philips Series 800 and the Xiaomi 4 Compact.
Excellent review – thanks :). Tossing up between this model and the Phillips 1000i. Do you have any recommendations and have you done a comparison between the two models?
Thanks!
Unfortunately, I haven’t tested the Philips 1000i nor compared it with the Series 800.
In the EU the Philips AC830/10 selling package included an FY0194 filter.
It cost you an additional €35 to get the best filter FY0293 for this air purifier.
Only then it gives you the performance you have to expect from this Philips air purifier.
This makes it a not a cheap purifier, compare most purifiers for this money having apps with lots of extras.
But in yearly electricity costs, it’s hard to beat.
Thank you for your detailed article!
How good would you describe the performance of the Phillips 800 in comparison to the Levoit 300? Which one is more effective?
I have already compared these two. Find the comparison on the link below:
Philips Series 800 Vs Levoit Core 300 – Comparison
Hello,
The filter on this device has an elektrostatic charge, on their website they say “The NanoProtect HEPA technology not only captures pollutants, but it uses a special electrostatic charge to attract them”. Does this in any way generato ozon?
It is a simple paper-based HEPA filter, so I don’t think it produces ozone or has an electrostatic charge.