TESLA Air3 Review: A Budget Air Purifier With Smart Features

Full Review

Before diving into a detailed analysis of this device, I want to clarify that the Tesla Air3 has no affiliation with Tesla, the electric car company founded by Elon Musk.

Tesla home appliances are part of a separate brand, primarily aimed at the European market, with some signs of expansion into the US.

Many users mistakenly associate the Tesla Air3 with Elon Musk’s Tesla and may even choose the product based on that assumption.

However, this doesn’t mean the brand is misleading or untrustworthy.

Tesla (the appliance brand) operates legitimately in Europe—it’s not a Chinese knockoff or a scam. In fact, its products are generally of very high quality.

How We Tested the Tesla Air3?

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 Tesla Air3 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 Tesla Air3 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 Tesla Air3 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 Tesla Air3 air purifier has a CADR of 118 CFM (200 m³/h), making it suitable for rooms up to 184 sq. ft. (17 m²).

Accordingly, we tested it in a room of similar size and measured its performance using a Temtop laser particle counter.

In addition, I used the Tesla Air3 in my home for three days to observe how it handles everyday airborne particles, cooking odors, and similar challenges.

I found that while it performs well in capturing airborne particles, particularly in rooms within the recommended size range, its odor neutralization could be improved.

Testing in a 194 sq. ft. (18 m²) Room

In a test performed in a 194 sq. ft. (18 m²) room, the Tesla Air3 improved air quality by 90%, which is a solid result for a budget-friendly air purifier.

It worked for 60 minutes at maximum speed.

We measured its performance using a Temtop laser particle meter. The Tesla Air3 reduced PM2.5 levels from 103.7 to 10.1 µg/m³.

Compared to similar air purifiers in the same price range, I would say it ranks slightly below average.

For instance, in the same test, the Bosch Air 2000 improved air quality by 93%, while the Levoit Core 300S achieved a 94% improvement.

Interestingly, these two models, including the Tesla, are available in the European market.

This compact air purifier offers four fan speeds, including a sleep mode.

It’s well-optimized for noise, particularly at lower speeds, as confirmed in our measurements.

At its lowest speed (sleep mode), the Tesla Air3 produces just 40.6 dBA of sound—placing it among the best noise-optimized air purifiers in its class.

As shown in the chart, the IKEA FÖRNUFTIG—another air purifier with similar specifications—is noticeably louder at the lowest speed, producing 42.2 dBA.

At maximum speed, the situation changes slightly. The Tesla Air3 reaches 64.4 dBA, which isn’t as impressive as its performance at lower speeds.

Overall, the Tesla Air3 is well-optimized for noise, and I believe most users will find the sound levels acceptable, even at the highest setting.

In terms of power consumption, the Tesla Air3 uses a 35W motor, which is relatively high compared to some similarly priced air purifiers.

If used at maximum speed, 24 hours a day for an entire month, it would add approximately $2.82 to your electricity bill.

By comparison, the Shark NeverChange would cost about $2.24 under the same conditions.

In addition to electricity costs, there’s also the cost of replacement filters. While the filter price is reasonable, the fact that they’re not always in stock is a drawback.

Overall, despite the slightly higher energy consumption and occasional filter availability issues, I’d still consider the Tesla Air3 affordable to maintain.

Filtration Technology

The Tesla Air3 uses a three-stage filtration system with a cylindrical filter that’s hollow through the middle.

The filter is located in the bottom section of the device.

One aspect I especially like is that Tesla doesn’t use an ionizer or any other filtration technology that could potentially generate ozone as a byproduct.

Pre-filter

The first stage of filtration is the pre-filter, which is designed to capture large particles such as dust, pollen, hair, pet fur, and similar debris.

It’s simply a nylon mesh attached to the HEPA filter, which also helps extend the lifespan of the HEPA filter.

The pre-filter should be cleaned regularly, ideally every two weeks, or more frequently if you’re using the air purifier in a space with pets.

HEPA Filter

The second stage of filtration is the HEPA filter, which is primarily responsible for capturing fine airborne particles such as dust, allergens, smoke, and similar.

This is the core filtration stage and by far the most important one.

Activated Carbon Filter

The final stage of filtration is the activated carbon filter, which is primarily responsible for neutralizing unpleasant odors.

This stage likely played a key role in the Tesla Air3’s strong performance in our airborne particle removal tests.

How to Replace the Tesla Air3 Air Purifier Filter?

This air purifier uses non-washable filters, which means they need to be replaced periodically.

The recommended replacement interval is every six months, though this can vary depending on usage frequency and environmental conditions.

One feature I like about the Tesla Air3 is the filter reset indicator, which notifies you when it’s time to replace the filter.

The replacement process is simple and requires only a few easy steps.

Setup and Installation

The Tesla Air3 is a straightforward air purifier that requires no special setup before first use.

Setting it up is similar to most other air purifiers: simply remove the filter from the unit, take off the plastic wrap, and place the filter back inside.

Once that’s done, place the Tesla Air3 in your preferred location, plug it in, and turn it on.

Design

Overall, I wouldn’t say the Tesla Air3 brings anything revolutionary in terms of design.

It features a typical cylindrical shape, similar to many air purifiers in its price range. However, subtle design elements near the base give it a more modern and stylish appearance.

What did surprise me was the build quality, which is quite good considering its price.

The Tesla Air3 comes in white, accented with black details on the top and silver highlights near the bottom.

All in all, I’d say the Tesla Air3 has a modern design that blends well into most environments.

Display and Controls

The top of the device includes the control panel and indicators.

It features touch buttons that allow you to fully operate the air purifier.

However, I recommend connecting it to the smart app for expanded control options, including remote control.

In addition to the touch buttons, there are indicator lights for each function, as well as dedicated indicators for the timer, Wi-Fi connection, and air quality levels.

Overall, the Tesla Air3 is user-friendly and easy to operate, whether or not you choose to use the smart app.

Airflow

This cylindrical air purifier has air intake openings located on the bottom part of the device.

Air enters through these openings, passes through the filtration system, and exits through the grilles at the top.

It’s important to ensure that airflow is never blocked, as doing so could potentially damage the motor.

Size and Dimensions

This air purifier dimensions are 8.7 x 8.7 x 15.2 inches (22 x 22 x 38.5 cm).

This air purifier weighs 8.4 lb (3.8 kg). Although it doesn’t have a carrying handle, it’s very lightweight and practical, so moving it from room to room won’t be a problem.

What’s in the Box?

When you buy the device, you will get a Tesla Air3 air purifier, a 3-stage filter (pre-installed), and a user manual.

Features Overview

Although it’s a compact and budget-friendly air purifier, the Tesla Air3 offers a surprisingly solid set of features. I’ll highlight the most important ones in the sections below.

Air Quality Sensor & Indicator

One thing I like about the Tesla Air3 is that it can be fully automated, thanks to its built-in air quality sensor, which detects PM2.5 particles in real time.

This sensor works in combination with features like auto mode and the air quality indicator.

The air quality indicator changes color based on current air quality.

Additionally, you can monitor real-time air quality through the smart app, but unfortunately, there is no detailed PM2.5 particulate matter data.

Auto Mode

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

The sensor continuously monitors the air and sends real-time data to the device, allowing it to automatically adjust the fan speed based on current air quality.

AQ Color	Blue	Green	Orange	Red
Speed Mode	Sleep	Speed 1 (Low)	Speed 2 (Medium)	Speed 3 (High)
AQ Level	Very good	Good	Unhealthy	Hazardous

In practice, this means the air purifier will switch to a higher fan speed when air quality worsens and reduce the speed when conditions improve.

Timer

The timer is a useful feature, though you might not use it often—especially if you connect the device to the smart app.

It allows you to set a specific duration after which the air purifier will automatically turn off.

You can choose between three preset options: 2 hours, 4 hours, or 8 hours.

Sleep Mode

Another notable feature is sleep mode.

When activated, it sets the air purifier to the lowest fan speed and turns off all indicator lights, except for the timer and sleep mode indicators.

Warranty

This small air purifier comes with a one-year warranty.

TESLA Smart App

The Tesla smart app is quite similar to the Xiaomi smart app in terms of layout and functionality.

However, it doesn’t offer advanced features like detailed air quality insights, PM2.5 readings, or advanced scheduling options.

Essentially, the app’s main, and perhaps only purpose is to function as a remote control for the device.

One difference is that the app allows you to set a longer timer duration than what’s available directly on the device’s display.

FAQ on Tesla Air3 Air Purifier