Shark NeverChange Review [HP302]

In This Review
Purification Performance | Ozone Test | Filters | Coverage | Build Quality | Noise Test | Usability | Maintenance | Size | Specs | Product Evolution | Comparison | FAQs

Performance Summary

At Modern Castle we put air purifiers to the test.

We test 11 different factors that impact the performance, build quality, and usability of the air purifier. Below is a complete list of our testing categories and their performance.

Test Type	Test Data
PM2.5 (1 hour test)	0.1 ppm
PM10 (1 hour test)	0.2 ppm
Particles (1 hour test)	17
AQI (1 hour test)	1
Ozone Detected	0.0 ppm
Filter Quality	Exceptional
Filter Type	Pre-filter, HEPA, Carbon, Ionizer
Coverage Area	1,300 sq. ft.
CADR	0 CFM
Max Wind Speed	8.9 mph
Noise Test	53.3 dB

To test the purification performance of the Shark NeverChange, we placed it in a medium sized room in our office (~14’ x 10`). Next, we lit incense to introduce smoke and other particulates into the air for 30 seconds. After, we use a professional air quality detector to take a measurement of the smoke filled air.

Next, we run the air purifier on the highest fan speed for 2 hours, taking measurements of the air quality at the one hour mark and the end of the test. Here is what we found:

Performance Metric	Starting Measurement	After 1 Hour	After 2 Hours
PM2.5	114.2 ppm	0.1 ppm	0.1 ppm
PM10	201.5 ppm	0.2 ppm	0.1 ppm
Particles	10978	17	24
AQI	181	1	1

The Shark NeverChange scored exceptionally well in our testing. During testing, we measured the improvements of PM2.5 from 114.2 ppm to 0.1, PM10 from 201.5 ppm to 0.2, particulates from 10,978 to 17, and AQI from 181 to 1. On average, we see air purifiers reduce PM2.5 to 0.47 ppm and PM10 to 0.7 ppm after the 1-hour test.

Achieving this level of improvement within 1 hour is a fantastic performance indicator.

Below, we’ve included information on the testing criteria and what defines good vs. bad air quality. Simply, the lower the numbers the better.

With most air purifiers ozone generation isn’t an issue. That said, some that use negative ion generators have the potential to create ozone. To test this, we run the Shark NeverChange, letting it run for 1 hour and measure the levels of ozone before and after with an ozone meter device.

During our testing of the Shark NeverChange we had no measurable ozone produced.

The Shark NeverChange has its own NeverChange HEPA filter designed for long-lasting purification to reduce maintenance.

Coverage

The Shark NeverChange HP302 has a coverage area of 1,400 sq. ft. It is best suited for medium to large rooms. This puts the Shark NeverChange above our testing average of 716 sq. ft. coverage based on all the air purifiers we’ve tested to date.

Wind Speed Test

Our wind speed test uses an anemometer placed directly on the air vents of the Shark NeverChange to measure the fan speeds in miles per hour. We run it on the lowest and highest fan speeds and record the speed of the air coming out of the device.

When placed on the maximum fan, we measured a wind speed of 8.9 mph. Compared to our current testing average of 12.19 mph, it measured 3.29 mph less. This is exceptional performance for an air purifier of this size and coverage.

Overall, the Shark NeverChange scored excellent in build quality. Specifically, the fan, display, and control features received exceptional ratings.

Part	Build Quality
Overall	Excellent
Body	Very Good
Fan	Exceptional
Filters	Exceptional
Controls	Exceptional
Display	Exceptional
Remote	Excellent
Wheels	N/A

However, we noticed the plastic intake guards that extend off the body on the side may be prone to damage over time. These panels are only reinforced by four plastic bridges that connect the panel to the main body. As a result, we scored the purifier’s body rating as very good.

To determine the level of noise that the Shark NeverChange creates we use a sound meter and measure the decibel levels on both the lowest and highest fan speeds. In addition, we measure the ambient noise levels of the room as a baseline comparison.

At the start of the test, we measured the ambient noise at 43 dB. We then increased the Shark NeverChange to its maximum fan speed measuring 53.3 dB. On average, we see air purifiers produce 61.5 dB on maximum fan speed. This puts the NeverChange 8.2 dB quieter than our current testing average.

The Shark NeverChange scored top ratings in Usability. It has an exceptional front-facing display of air quality information, an auto mode for air purification autonomy and efficiency, and finally, an odor neutralizer to help remove unwanted odors.

Setup took under 3 minutes with the Shark NeverChange being almost plug-in ready. Before plugging in the system, you’ll need to remove the plastic covering from the 3-in-1 filter already inside the system. Finally, before turning the system on, you’ll need to insert the Shark odor neutralizer into the socket on top. Adjust the odor neutralizer to your desired strength.

The Shark NeverChange scored exceptionally well in display features with its large front-facing air quality meter and touchscreen controls on top. The Neverchange features 5 fan speeds, an auto mode that automatically adjusts as the air quality changes, a shutoff timer, a display light dimmer, and a locking feature. Most impressively, the front-facing display gives you information on PM1.0, PM2.5, and PM10 levels in addition to the air quality percentage.

Wireless Controls

This specific model (HP302) we tested does have the option to connect to a remote that is sold separately. The 300 series does not have app or wifi connectivity.

In The Box

• Shark Never Change HP302
• User Manual
• Odor Neutralizer

The Shark NeverChange has an estimated yearly maintenance cost of $20. The following are the major maintenance tasks for the SharkNeverChange.

According to Shark, the NeverChange filter should last 5 years.

Task	Description	Est. Annual Cost
HEPA Filter	Replace every 5 years	Unknown
Carbon Filter	Replace every 5 years	Unknown
Pre Filter	Wash As Needed	$0
Odor Nuetralizer	Replace Every 6 Months	$15

Size & Dimensions

The Shark NeverChange is a medium-sized air purifier designed to cover medium to large areas. The dimensions are 22”(H) x 13”(L) x 143”(W) – 12.2 lbs.  This system measures just under our current average of 25.2”(H) x 14.3”(L) x 14.3”(W) – 22.7 lbs.

Attribute	Measurement
Height	22.0″ (55.9 cm)
Length	13.0″ (33.0 cm)
Width	13.0″ (33.0 cm)
Weight	12.2 lbs. (5.5 kg)

Specifications

The following table details the product specifications according to the manufacturer.

Manufacturer Specifications
Manufacturer	Shark
Model	NeverChange Max HP302 Series
Height	22.0″ (55.9 cm)
Length	13.0″ (33.0 cm)
Width	13.0″ (33.0 cm)
Weight	12.2 lbs. (5.5 kg)
Filter	Pre-filter, HEPA, Carbon, Ionizer
Noise Levels	53 dB (max)
Coverage Area	1,400 sq. ft.
CADR	Unknown
Wi-Fi Compatible	No
Warranty	2 years
Price	Check Price

Product Evolution

The Shark NeverChange HP302 is part of the new HP300 air purifier series from Shark, released in early August 2023. The line of air purifiers from Shark has evolved through several models including the Shark 3-in-1, Shark Air Purifier, Shark HP232, and Shark HP100 / HP200 series. 

The biggest change on the NeverChange series is the ultra long HEPA filter life. According to Shark, the HEPA filter will last 5 years. If this is indeed true, it would be among the longest lasting HEPA filters on the market.

Only having to replace the filter once every 5 years makes the lifetime cost of ownership incredibly low.

How does the Shark NeverChange compare?

Below is a complete list of our air purifier tests and critical product data compared side by side to the average based on all of our air purifier tests to date.

The Shark NeverChange had an overall rating of exceptional with high scores in purification performance, filters, display / controls, and usability. In these categories, the Shark NeverChange outperformed their respective testing averages.

Test Type	Test Data	Avg. Data
PM2.5 (1 hour test)	0.1 ppm	0.47 ppm
PM10 (1 hour test)	0.2 ppm	0.7 ppm
Particles (1 hour test)	17	57.07
AQI (1 hour test)	1	1.81
Ozone Detected	0.0 ppm	0.0 ppm
Filter Quality	Exceptional	Excellent
Filter Type	pre-filter, HEPA, Carbon, Ionizer	n/a
Coverage Area	1,300 sq. ft.	716 sq. ft.
CADR	Unknown	283 CFM
Max Wind Speed	8.9 mph	12.2 mph
Noise Test	53.3 dB	61.7 dB

When comparing the Shark NeverChange to similar air purifiers with coverage, performance, and filter maintenance, this air purifier stands out as a top competitor. Specifically with the filter longevity, according to the manufacturer, the filter will last for 5 years, depending on use. While we weren’t able to test this claim, it would be one of the longest life expectancy for any air purifier.

Excluding the filter longevity, the purification performance and usability ratings can be compared to several high-performing air purifiers. Models like the TruSens Z-3500, IQAirHealth Pro, Oransi Mod+, and Medify MA-50 all have similar performance and usability ratings.

Other Air Purifiers to Consider

FAQs