Specifications
| Manufacturer | Winix |
| Model | C535 |
| Dimensions (inches / cm) | 15 x 8.2 x 23.6 inches (38 x 20.8 x 60 cm) |
| Weight (pounds / kg) | 14.8 (6.7 kg) |
| Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) | 232 CFM (394 m³/h) |
| Filtration Technology | Pre-Filter, Odor Absorbing Carbon Filter, and True HEPA Filter |
| Filter Replacement Indicator | Yes |
| Filter Life | up to 12 months |
| Number of Fan Speeds | 5 – Sleep Mode, Speed 1, Speed 2, Speed 3, 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. | Yes |
| Voice Control Voice Control Summary: Out of 83 air purifiers tested, only 25 have voice control functionality. | Yes |
| Other Features | PlasmaWaveLight SensorRemoteTimer |
| 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. | 360 sq. ft. (33 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. | 70W |
| 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) | 40.8 – 63.2 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 | Pets Living Rooms Allergies Dust |
| Warranty | 2-year |
Full Review
Winix is a well-known company that has been in the market for many years. They produce air purifiers for all room sizes. The Winix C535 (also known as the Winix Zero) has gained tremendous popularity primarily because of its features offered at an affordable price. So far, I have tested several models from Winix.
The design and advanced options of the Winix C535 are very similar to the Winix 5500-2 model. It’s intended for rooms up to 360 sq. ft. (33 m²). It uses four-stage filtration technology, including an ionizer that can be turned on or off.
We tested the Winix C535 in various conditions and rooms. In this review, you will find out how good it is, whether it justifies its popularity, and if it’s worth buying.
How We Tested the Winix C535?
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 Winix C535 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 Winix C535 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 Winix C535 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.
Performance – Particle Removal Tests
Performance – Particle Removal Tests:
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.
We tested the Winix C535 in various rooms with different conditions and sizes.
Regarding performance, my biggest complaint is about the auto mode. It works well in gas-polluted environments (cooking odors, VOCs, cigarette smoke, etc.), but it could be improved to detect dust particles, which would enhance auto mode’s overall effectiveness.
On the other hand, the auto mode feature has made using the Winix C535 much easier, at least in odor-polluted environments.
I want to mention that we didn’t use PlasmaWave in our tests for two reasons: it doesn’t significantly improve air quality, and this technology produces ozone as a byproduct.
Testing in a 320 sq. ft. (30 m²) Room
In the first test, conducted in a 320 sq. ft. (30 m²) room, the Winix C535 achieved outstanding results. It reduced the number of PM2.5 particulate matter from 80.7 to 4.1 µg/m³, an air quality improvement of about 95%.
| # | Starting Baseline | After 60min |
|---|---|---|
| PM 2.5 | 80.7 µg/m³ | 4.1 µg/m³ |
| PM 10 | 113 µg/m³ | 5.7 µg/m³ |
| Particles | 117077 per/L | 6051 per/L |
| AQI | 107 | 5 |
The device operated at maximum speed throughout the 60-minute test.
Compared to other competitive air purifiers tested in the same room, the Winix C535 ranks among the top performers. As shown in the chart below, its main competitors, such as the Coway AP-1512HH, Winix 5500-2, and Levoit Core 400S, improved the air quality by 96%.
Particle Removal Test Room - Comparison
Comparison between the Winix C535 and its competitors in particle removal tests in a 320 sq. ft. (30 m²) room.
Overall, I’m truly satisfied with the Winix C535’s performance and believe it would be a great option for combating common pollutants in your home.
Testing in a 320 sq. ft. (30 m²) Room – Auto Mode
We tested the Winix C535 in the same room under identical conditions, but this time with the auto mode on.
The auto mode on this model isn’t always the best solution because the smart sensor only detects odors. However, the Winix C535 did a great job in this test, improving the air quality by about 90% in just 60 minutes while working at maximum speed.
| # | Starting Baseline | After 60min |
|---|---|---|
| PM 2.5 | 63.8 µg/m³ | 6.4 µg/m³ |
| PM 10 | 89.4 µg/m³ | 9 µg/m³ |
| Particles | 92654 per/L | 9387 per/L |
| AQI | 86 | 9 |
It lowered the PM2.5 particulate matter from 63.8 to 6.4 µg/m³.
I would use the Winix C535 on auto mode only if my environment is polluted by wildfire smoke, cooking odors, cigarette smoke, or similar pollutants.
Performance – Smoke Removal Test
We placed the Winix C535 in our unique smoke test and measured the time it took to remove all the smoke from a glass box.
The Winix C535 worked at maximum speed throughout the test and managed to remove all the smoke from the box in just 21 seconds.
As you can see in the chart above, the Winix C535 is the slowest air purifier in this test, but to be fair, it was compared to some of the best air purifiers on the market.
Smoke Box Test - Comparison
In this chart, you can see how quickly the Winix C535 removes smoke from a glass box compared to its competitors.
For example, the Levoit Vital 200S removed all the smoke in 15 seconds, and the giant Blueair 211+ did so in just 9 seconds.
Overall, removing all the smoke in 21 seconds is a fantastic result, and the Winix C535 confirmed its excellent performance.
Noise Levels Test
Noise – Sound Level Tests:
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 measure the noise level on the dBA scale.
You can read more about our testing methodology here.
The Winix C545 uses five fan speeds, including sleep mode and four different speeds.
It’s generally quiet, especially at the lowest speed, where it produces a sound level of 40.8 dBA. At the maximum speed (turbo mode), the situation is quite different, as it produces a sound level of 63.2 dBA.
When compared with competitive air purifiers, it’s generally much quieter, especially at the lowest speed. The only quieter air purifier at the lowest speed is the Winix 5500-2, which produces 40.6 dBA.
Noise Levels Test - Comparison
This chart compares the noise levels at the minimum and maximum speeds of the Winix C535 air purifier with those of its competitors.
However, at maximum speed, there are much quieter devices. For example, the Blueair 211+, which is several times more powerful than the Winix C545, produces a sound level of only 59.7 dBA at maximum speed.\
Below is a table listing the noise levels at all speeds so you can see how loud this air purifier is overall.
| Fan Speed | Winix C535 (dBA) |
|---|---|
| Sleep Mode | 40.8 dBA |
| Speed 1 (Low) | 42.4 dBA |
| Speed 2 (Medium) | 44.2 dBA |
| Speed 3 (High) | 47.1 dBA |
| Speed 4 (Turbo) | 63.2 dBA |
In conclusion, it’s not the best choice for bedroom use, but it is ideal for living rooms, kitchens, offices, and similar spaces.
The Winix C535 is a large power consumer. It uses a motor of 70W, which puts it among the largest power consumers in its category.
Interestingly, it consumes only 3W in sleep mode and about 6W at the first speed.
At the maximum speed, it consumes 54.1W. So, if you were to use this air purifier at maximum speed, 24 hours a day, for one month, your electric bill would increase by about $4.74.
Monthly Power Cost – Comparison
Comparison of the monthly power cost at maximum speed between the Winix C535 and some of its competitors.
When compared to similar air purifiers, the Winix C535 is among the largest power consumers. For example, the Levoit Core 400S would cost you about $3.07 under the same conditions.
In addition to the electricity cost, there is also the filter replacement cost, which is slightly higher for the Winix C535. The only advantage here is that you have to replace the filter only once per year.
| Fan Speed | Winix C535 (W + $/month) |
|---|---|
| Standby | 1.2W ($0.11) |
| Sleep Mode | 3W ($0.26) |
| Speed 1 (Low) | 6W ($0.53) |
| Speed 2 (Medium) | 7.7W ($0.68) |
| Speed 3 (High) | 11.4W ($1) |
| Speed 4 (Turbo) | 54.1W ($4.74) |
Therefore, if we consider the replacement filter’s price and the annual electricity consumption, the C535 air purifier’s maintenance will cost you almost as much as the device itself.
Filtration Technology
The Winix C535 uses four-stage filtration. The first filtration stage is a washable pre-filter, the second is the carbon filter, the third is the True HEPA filter, while the last filtration stage is PlasmaWave.
Besides, there is a pre-filter that removes large particles. All filters used in the C535 are not washable except the pre-filter.
Pre-Filter
The air first goes through the Winix C535 pre-filter. This stage is the first line of defense against the most extensive airborne particles found indoors.
The pre-filter is washable and should be cleaned on average every 14 days. Pre-filter will protect other filters, extend their lives, and make the whole machine work better.
Carbon Filter
The carbon filter is not made up of carbon pellets. The carbon filter in the Winix C535 is a fibrous filter coated with carbon. Carbon filters reduce VOCs and household odors from cooking, pets, and smoke.
This type of carbon filtration is common in many air purifiers. For example, Coway Mighty uses a fibrous carbon filter. The Winix 5300-2 and Winix P300, which are also popular models from the Winix company, use an identical filter for gas filtration.
True HEPA filter
The true HEPA filter captures 99.97% of airborne particles, including pollen, mold spores, dust, pet dander, microbes, and smoke. Almost all the particles that are as small as 0.3 microns in size.
A true HEPA filter is not washable, and under no circumstances should it be washed or cleaned in any other way.
PlasmaWave
I don’t particularly appreciate that PlasmaWave turns on every time the device starts. I think it would be more practical to leave this option off and let users decide to use it. However, the PlasmaWave can be turned off at any time.
How does PlasmaWave technology work?
The PlasmaWave technology creates a low electrical discharge to produce dual polarity ions ( + hydrogen (H+) and – oxygen ions (-O2)) from air moisture. The ions connect themselves to air pollutants’ surface to form Hydroxyls by removing hydrogen from the air structure. This synergy eliminates air pollutants and allows the ions to use the absent Hydrogen ion, removed from the air pollutants’ structure to return as air moisture (H2O).
How to Replace the Winix C535 Filter?
Always use Winix genuine replacement filters for the best performance.
Total time: 10 minutes.
Step 1
Remove the front panel to access filters.
Step 2
Take out pre-filter, carbon, and True HEPA filter from the device.
Step 3
Use a vacuum cleaner and clean the inside of the air purifier to remove dust and other particles inside the device.
Step 4
Unpack the new filters and pull them out of the plastic bag.
Step 5
Finally, you can place new filters in this order: first goes true HEPA filter, then carbon filter and in the end pre-filter.
Step 6
Now you can close the front panel.
Step 7
Insert the power cord into an electrical plug, and reset the filter reset indicator.
Design
The build quality of the Winix C535 model is top-notch. The Winix C535 is white, except for the control panel on top of the device, which is black.
The device is bulky. The edges are straight. It looks a bit old-fashioned.
The color and appearance can fit into many rooms, such as the bedroom, living room, kitchen, etc. The device is easily transported thanks to the handle located on the top of the device. At the top of the device is the control panel with all the buttons, indicators, and sensors. I will say more about the control panel later in the following Winix C535 review. One thing that I need to mention is the power cord; its length is standard.
Control Panel – Initial Operations
There are buttons on the control panel for complete device control. Besides, there are all the necessary indicators and sensors that the Winix C535 has. The buttons are standard press buttons; they don’t respond on touch. They react to smooth pressure.
The buttons do not light up. However, you will hear a beep sound at each press. The control panel buttons are the on or off switch, the select mode button, the PlasmaWave technology on or off button, the fan speed button, and the timer button.
In addition to the buttons, there are indicators above each button.
When the Winix C535 is facing you, on the left side, next to the edge of the device, is a filter reset indicator as well as light and odor sensors.
Airflow
Air enters on the front of the device, through the cover, and from the sides. After that, the air is filtered through a pre-filter, then through a carbon filter, and finally through a true HEPA filter. If PlasmaWave is on, the air will be additionally filtered. The filtered air comes out on the top of the device and is directed upwards.
Size and Dimensions
The air purifier weighs 14.7 lb. Although a little heavier than average air purifiers on the market, the C535 is easily transported from location to location thanks to the carrying handle. The dimensions of the device are 15 x 8.2 x 23.6 inches.
What’s in the box?
When you buy the device, you get 1x Winix C535, 1x True HEPA filter, 4x Carbon Filter, 1x Remote Control (with battery included), 1x User Manual, and 1x Warranty Card.
Features Overview
Auto Mode
This mode regulates the speed of the device based on air pollution in the room. If the air quality is low, auto mode will automatically switch the fan speed to turbo mode, and vice versa if the air quality is good. In addition to the smart sensor, auto mode is also affected by the light sensor. This means that if the room is dark and the device is operating in auto mode, the C535 will automatically switch to sleep mode.
I used the Winix C535 for a while in the bedroom, and I can say that I was delighted, mainly because of auto mode. Because literally all I need to do is turn on the device, and I can comfortably forget about it. Besides, the remote controller was always at hand, so I could turn it off whenever I wanted. In the evening, when I go to sleep, auto mode on the C535 automatically switches to sleep mode, so I didn’t even notice it, and the air quality in the room was always exceptional.
PlasmaWave
This advanced technology produces hydroxyls to neutralize bacteria and viruses. PlasmaWave is an ionizer. It can be switched off or on as desired by the user.
Air Quality Indicator
The air quality indicator will display the current air quality by illuminating specific colors depending on what air quality is detected via the smart sensor.
Winix C535 air quality indicator will display three states. When the indicator lights up blue, then the air is good, orange means the air is not good, and when you see red, then the air is horrible.
Smart Sensor
The smart sensor detects odors in the air. Based on that, it determines the speed of the device if auto mode is on.
Based on the smart sensor’s detected air quality, the air quality indicator will illuminate specific colors. I have described this process above in the air quality indicator section.
Sleep Mode
When sleep mode is on, the Winix C535 is barely hearable. The device produces almost inaudible sound, 40.8 dBA. I used the Winix C535 in the bedroom, and I can say that I didn’t even notice that the device is there, especially in combination with auto mode, which will automatically turn on sleep mode when the room gets dark. At the end of the review is the section about the volume that the Winix C535 produces at all speeds; check it out.
Timer
The Winix C535 uses a timer as an advanced option. The timer can be set to 1h, 4h, and 8h. A timer is a useful option if you like to use an air purifier for a particular period. After a set timer is up, the air purifier will turn off automatically.
Remote Control
The Winix C535 air purifier comes with a remote controller with included batteries. The remote controller controls the device from a remote location at a maximum of 20 feet from the device.
With the remote controller, we can use the following options: power (on/off), auto mode, changing fan speed, and turbo mode.
Check Filter Indicator
The check filter indicator will light up when it is time to replace the filter.
It will notify you when it is time to replace the True HEPA filter and the carbon filter.
Room Coverage and CADR Rating
Winix C535 is designed for rooms up to 360 sq. ft. AHAM verified for five clean air changes per hour in 360 sq. ft. space. Proper for medium to large size living rooms.
| Smoke | 232 |
| Dust | 243 |
| Pollen | 246 |
CADR ratings show us how good is this air purifier at purifying air by pollution. In the table above, you can see ratings for dust, smoke, and pollen.
Does Winix C535 produce ozone?
Winix claims C535 does not produce harmful ozone. Plasmawave CARB certificate has strict California state rules, which then implies that Winix C535 is actually safe to use. C535 has an ozone emission rating below the 0.05 parts per million limit, far from dangerous levels.
Winix Warranty and Customer Service
Winix offers a 2-year warranty on the C535 model. Support is accommodating, fast, and efficient. You can contact them via Facebook, Twitter, or Email. Besides, you can contact Winix through the WinixAmerica website or other international Winix websites.
The contact email for Winix support is info@winixinc.com.
The Winix support phone number in the US is (877) 699-4649.
I also tested how fast Winix customer support is. I received a reply to the message I sent to Facebook within 3 hours. In comparison, I was waiting for an email reply for about 13 hours.
Also, the team from Winix answered all the questions professionally and correctly, and I have no objections.
FAQ on Winix C535
Is PlasmaWave safe?
Yes, it is. The CARB certificate proves that.
Can PlasmaWave be turned off?
Yes, PlasmaWave can be turned off or on as desired by the user. The button is located in the middle of the device. If the PlasmaWave indicator is lit, it is on.
Does it produce ozone?
Are Winix C535 filters washable?
The filters on the Winix C535 are not washable. Washing a true HEPA filter and activated carbon filter is not recommended under any circumstances. However, the pre-filter should be cleaned on average every 14 days.
How often should I change the filters?
The true HEPA filter should be changed on average every 12 months. The carbon filter should be changed every three months. Please note that with the purchase of the C535 model, you get four carbon filters and one true HEPA filter.
Is the Winix C535 AHAM Verified?
Yes, it is; you can read the results in this review.
Winix C535 or Levoit 400S ? Which one would you prefer if you were to buy?
I’m not sure if the Winix C535 will still be in stock in the future.
Besides, it uses a less effective carbon filter, has a lower CADR, uses more power, is slightly louder, and lacks a smart app.
For all these reasons, I would go with the Levoit Core 400S.
P.S. Have you checked out our new tool for comparing air purifiers?
I am truly glad to read this web site posts which includes plenty of valuable data, thanks for providing these information.
I’m glad your find our articles helpful.
I’m torn between the Levoit 600S and the Winix Zero Pro. I have one cat and occasionally experience sneezing and allergies. In my country, both models are priced the same. Which one should I buy?
Because of a cat, I would recommend the Winix Zero Pro.
Although it has a lower CADR, it features a washable pre-filter, is more appealing, and, in my opinion, uses higher-quality filters.
Your review of the Winix C535 says it filters down .3 microns. The Winix website says it’s filters down to .003 microns, which I find hard to believe. I wrote Winix and they’re still insisting that it’s filters down to .003 microns. Something is not right here.
In theory, an air purifier with a True HEPA filter (like the one on the Winix C535) can capture particles as small as 0.003 microns but with very low efficiency, which isn’t even worth mentioning. The True HEPA filter captures 99.97% of airborne particles as small as 0.3 microns, and that’s what should be important for you.
For instance, cigarette smoke typically ranges in size from 0.1 to 1.0 microns, while pollen, for example, might be as large as 10 microns.
Since I live near a freeway I’m interested in diesel particulate matter. (DPM) Most DPM is less than .1 microns. Winex advertised the unit at .003 microns. You admit it has very low efficiency in measuring at this pollutant level . I would not have bought this unit knowing what you are saying. At best Winix is guilty of deceptive advertising.
I requested from Winix proof that the C535 filters down to point .003 microns. They refused my request. I just filed a formal complaint with the FTC for false advertising. I have been diagnosed with asthma, so this is not a frivolous matter.
Hi, keep us updated!
I have a question for you: I will be purchasing the Winix C535 at our Costco in Mexico in a few days. Since I have a big dog, a Golden Retriever, that sheds a lot of hair, and I may have an allergy to dog hair, will it work for me? Additionally, my living space consists of a kitchen, living room, and dining room that together exceed 70 square meters. Do I need to move the purifier from one room to another, or will leaving it in one place 24/7 effectively purify the air, considering the rooms are open with no closed doors?
The Winix C535 has a washable pre-filter that effectively captures dog hair, providing a solution for your Golden Retriever’s shedding. However, if your living space exceeds 360 sq. ft., moving the air purifier from room to room is recommended to ensure optimal coverage.
Leaving it on 24/7 will enhance filtration efficiency, but I also recommend occasionally opening windows for fresh air circulation.
One more note for the end: you will have to clean/wash your air purifier filter regularly, at least twice per month.
Just received my C535 an hour ago. Have yet to see it up. Looked at a lot of machines before purchasing this one. Hopeful that it will help with a mold issue within the house that I have due to a roof leak and pipe failure. Mold is not as often mentioned in reviews as dust, odors, etc.., are. It’s nasty stuff.
Excellent review! Didn’t see it until after purchase. Would’ve preferred a machine that could handle even a larger area but they were too expensive for my wallet. Hope this does a good enough job.
I’m sure that the Winix C535, with its advanced filtration system, will do a great job in removing airborne mold from your house!
I have just bought it…I hope it worth the bucks. To me it is a good looking unit and has few capabilities more than competition…and on Amazon it is very cheap now
I’m sure it will do the job!
hey.
can u test some out of market filters? from amazon winix are so expensive.
That’s a great idea to consider. Thanks!
Is the cost of running this an extra $5 a month or year?
It is the cost of running it at the max speed for one month, 24h a day.
We have had the WINIX c535 unit for quite a while now and are very happy with it as it does the job great. Recently the red change filter light came on. I changed the filters and I did not know how to turn the light off so on your site one comment had the same problem and your response was to hold the reset down for 5 to 10 seconds (a toothpick works for this) you will hear a beep and the light goes out. now everything is normal again. Great unit for cleaning the air . Thanks Ed.
Hi Ed,
I’m glad you are content with the Winix C535, and also that you managed to reset the filter reset indicator. Thanks for sharing your experience!
I keep one of these in my bedroom when my allergies go nuts and i cant stop sneezing I turn it on and in 20-30 minutes my allergies are nearly gone. Its a great unit that does filter out a lot and work. I have a bigger levoit unit in my living room which does like 1300 square feet per its rating since winix doesnt make anything higher than like 500 square feet.
Thanks, Chris for sharing your experience.
I’m glad the Winix C535 works well against your allergies.
I change the filter and the red light that says check filter will not go off. Any suggestions? Yes I did press the filter reset button but that did not turn the red light off
With the power on, press the filter replacement reset button and hold for 5-10 seconds or until the light turns off.
That’s will do the job.
I must say that this is the most valuable air purifier in the market.
I’m using the Winix products over the years, and they are still the best.