Every single air purifier in this best of comparison has fantastic purification performance, but they range in coverage area. Some homes require thousands of square feet of coverage, other times you may just need coverage for a single bedroom.
We’re organizing our best air purifier picks by coverage level so that you can select the right air purifier for the coverage area that your home needs.
Rather watch than read? We’ve got you covered below:
What’s on this page
XL Room | Large Room | Medium Room | Small Room | How We Test | All Reviews
1,000 Square Feet
We are going to start off with our 1,000+ sq. ft. air purifiers. These air purifiers are good for very large rooms, entire apartments, open-concept areas, and other large areas.
Oransi Mod
Simple, Large Coverage Purifier
Oransi Mod MD01
The Oransi Mod had fantastic purification performance. In our tests, the mod reduced PM2.5 and PM10 to 0.1 and reduced particulates by 95.9%. The Oransi utilizes a 3-in-1 medical-grade MERV 17 HEPA filter that includes a layer of activated carbon to eliminate odors.
The Mod has a powerful airflow that can cover spaces up to 1,250 sq. ft. It will cycle the air twice every 60 minutes in a 1,250 square feet area. CADR rates vary from 97 CFM on the lowest power mode to 338 CFM on the highest fan speeds.
Starting Baseline
- PM2.5: 2.8
- PM10: 4.5
- Particles: 536
- AQI: 11
After 1 Hour
- PM2.5: 0.1
- PM10: 0.1
- Particles: 22
- AQI: 1
For those concerned about noise, the Oransi mod has a decibel range of 19-45 dB.
It has a simple design with a glass touch display and carrying handle. While there is no auto mode or app connectivity, the Oransi Mod more than makes up for it with its powerful performance and exceptional build quality. Overall, the Oransi Mod is an excellent choice for any large area.
Medify MA-112
Fantastic Performance; Extra large Air Purifier
Medify MA-112
Our testing series showed the MA-112 to have excellent purification performance reducing the PM2.5 and PM10 to 0.1. Additionally, it removed 99% of airborne particulates all with the help of a 5 stage filtration system. This system includes an H13 HEPA filter, activated carbon filter, and optional UV light and ionic filter.
The MA-112 is a large air purifier, but that means it packs a lot of power. It has a staggering CADR of 559 CFM. In 15 minutes the MA-112 covers up to 1,250 sq. ft. and in 60 minutes it can cover a total of 5,000 sq. ft., according to Medify. That level of coverage is incredibly impressive and is the largest of any air purifier we have tested to date.
Starting Baseline
- PM2.5: 9.1
- PM10: 14.6
- Particles: 1444
- AQI: 37
After 1 Hour
- PM2.5: 0.1
- PM10: 0.1
- Particles: 15
- AQI: 1
If you are worried about sound, our tests showed the MA-112 to have a decibel range of 21-48 dB.
The large design of the MA-112 is simple and easy to use. It has wheels to easily move the device, and offers a sleep mode. While it lacks an auto mode or app connectivity, the cleaning performance makes up for it. If you want the absolute maximum coverage, the Medify MA-112 has you covered.
Rabbit Air A3
HEpa filter with large coverage area
Rabbit Air A3
Our final large coverage air purifier is the Rabbit air A3, which also had fantastic purification performance. After running our purification tests, we measured a PM2.5 and PM10 of 0.1. In addition, the A3 was able to reduce the airborne particulates from 2,674 to 24, which is great to see. The Rabbit air has 1,070 sq. ft. of coverage and a CADR of 286 CFM.
The A3 uses 6 total filters to clean the surrounding air with the most notable ones being the BIOGS HEPA filter, carbon filter, a customized filter, and the negative ion generator. When you purchase the A3 you can choose from 4 different customized filters that are specialized for specific tasks, these include germ defense, toxin absorber, pet allergy, and odor remover.
Starting Baseline
- PM2.5: 16.6
- PM10: 28.4
- Particles: 2674
- AQI: 60
After 1 Hour
- PM2.5: 0.1
- PM10: 0.1
- Particles: 24
- AQI: 2
In our noise tests, we found the A3 to have a noise range of 19-52 dB.
The A3 comes with a variety of features that our other large coverage air purifiers lack. It comes with an auto mode and app connectivity for remote control. The app gives the user access to additional features including a custom schedule and device timers. Furthermore, the A3 has a RGB mood light that can be customized via the app.
500 – 1,000 Square Feet
Next, we are going to cover our best air purifiers in the 500-1,000 square foot coverage group. These devices are great for larger rooms like the kitchen, family room, basements, or large rec rooms.
Levoit LV-H134
High Air FLow Purifier
Levoit LV-H134
Our first air purifier with a coverage of 540 sq. ft. is the Levoit LV-H134. The H134 is a tall air purifier with a large HEPA and activated carbon filter inside. In our tests, this HEPA filter was able to reduce the airborne particles from 444 to 13. In addition, we found the PM2.5 and PM10 to be 0.1 after the hour long test. This is excellent performance and a great choice for any large room.
The Levoit LV-H134 covers up to 710 sq. ft. with a CADR of 312 CFM. This can generate some noise, and we found the decibel range to be between 18-45 dB.
Starting Baseline
- PM2.5: 7.0
- PM10: 11.6
- Particles: 444
- AQI: 29
After 1 Hour
- PM2.5: 0.1
- PM10: 0.1
- Particles: 13
- AQI: 0
Levoit packs many features into the H134, which are all accessible via the touch screen display. While running, the display will show the current air quality of the surrounding area via a colored ring.
The device can utilize this information with auto mode to automatically adjust the suction power as needed. Additionally, it has a sleep mode and timer for improved usability.
BlueAir Pure 211+
HIgh-Performance Air Purifier
BlueAir Pure 211+
Our next best air purifier in the 500-1,000 sq. ft. range is the Blueair Pure 211+. In our tests, we found the 211+ was able to improve the PM2.5 by 98.9 percent reducing the PM2.5 down to 0.1. Additionally, it was able to remove 98.8% of total airborne particulates, showing overall excellent performance.
The Blueair utilizes a HEPA and carbon filter for air purification, and a colored fabric pre-filter. The device comes with a blue and black pre-filter fabric for the exterior, however there are also other colors you can purchase separately.
Starting Baseline
- PM2.5: 9.5
- PM10: 17.1
- Particles: 1299
- AQI: 39
After 1 Hour
- PM2.5: 0.1
- PM10: 0.2
- Particles: 15
- AQI: 1
The Pure 211+ has a good amount of suction power with a CADR of 350 CFM. If you are concerned about noise, we found the decibel range to be between 22-45 dB.
Overall the Blueair Pure 211+ is a simple air purifier with fantastic performance. It has a one-button design to turn on and off the device, and toggle through the power options. If you just want excellent purification performance the Pure 211+ is a great choice.
Dyson Pure Cool (DP04/TP04)
Fantastic Performing Duo
Dyson Pure Cool
The Dyson Pure Cool series is our last best air purifier in the 500-1000 sq. ft. range. We tested both the DP04 and TP04 and found their performance to be fantastic. In our tests the TP04 reduced the PM2.5 and PM10 to 0.2 while the DP04 reduced it to 0.3. Both are great options that offer a coverage area of 800 sq. ft.
Dyson doesn’t offer a CADR rating for their air purifiers, instead, they present that information in liters of air per second flowing through the device. For the TP04 it can cycle 361 liters of air on the max setting, while the DP04 can cycle 419 liters.
DP04 Starting Baseline
- PM2.5: 4.9
- PM10: 8.5
- Particles: 359
- AQI: 20
DP04 After 1 Hour
- PM2.5: 0.3
- PM10: 0.3
- Particles: 29
- AQI: 0
TP04 Starting Baseline
- PM2.5: 7.4
- PM10: 12.1
- Particles: 599
- AQI: 30
TP04 After 1 Hour
- PM2.5: 0.2
- PM10: 0.2
- Particles: 14
- AQI: 0
Each device has various modes to choose form and we found their sound range to be between 19-46 dB.
Functionally, the Dyson TP04 and DP04 are nearly identical. The physical size and shape of the purifier is more of an aesthetic choice and a performance one. While Dyson does have newer Pure Cool models on the market, the TP04 and DP04 strike a far better balance of price vs. performance, in my view.
Whether you choose the Dyson DP04 or TP04 you will get an excellent air purifier. They both have a display with current air quality information and remote for wireless control of the device. They can oscillate, reverse their airflow, have an auto mode, a sleep timer, a fully featured smartphone app.
250 – 500 Square Feet
Now, we are going to cover our top picks for air purifiers in the 250-500 square foot range. These are great options for bedrooms or smaller spaces in your home.
Winix 5500-2
High performance HEPA Air Purifier
Winix 5500-2
Our first recommendation is the Winix 5500-2. In our testing series, we measured 98.3% of airborne particulates were removed during our 1 hour test. Additionally, the Winix was able to reduce the PM2.5 down to 0.1 and the PM10 to 0.2. It provides this level of purification in a coverage area of 360 sq. ft. with 3 layers of filtration, including HEPA, activated carbon, and option ionic filter.
It has a CADR of 243 CFM and generates noise in the 21-48 dB range.
Starting Baseline
- PM2.5: 6.1
- PM10: 11.0
- Particles: 1074
- AQI: 25
After 1 Hour
- PM2.5: 0.1
- PM10: 0.2
- Particles: 19
- AQI: 1
The Winix is a small and simply designed device. It comes packed with an auto mode, an optional ionic generator named “Plasmawave”. Perhaps most notably the pre-filter and carbon filters are washable, thereby reducing the long term costs of operation.
While there is no app connectivity, the 5500-2 comes with a remote for wireless control. Overall, the Winix 5500-2 has great usability features and excellent performance, which makes it a fantastic pick.
Coway 1512HH
Compact, modern Air Purifier
Coway 1512HH
For our final recommendation in the 250-500 sq. ft. category, we chose the Coway 1512HH. The Coway performed well in our tests, reducing the PM2.5 and PM10 to 0.3. We measured that it was able to reduce the airborne particulates from 234 to 34. The Coway is equipped with 4 layers of filtration, including a pre-filter, carbon filter, HEPA filter, and optional ionic generator.
The Coway 1512 has a coverage area 360 sq. ft., and CADR of 144 CFM. This level of suction can generate noise in the 20-54 dB range.
Starting Baseline
- PM2.5: 3.1
- PM10: 5.4
- Particles: 234
- AQI: 13
After 1 Hour
- PM2.5: 0.3
- PM10: 0.3
- Particles: 34
- AQI: 0
The Coway has a smaller footprint with a compact design. However, it doesn’t sacrifice on coverage or features. The 1512HH has real time air quality assessment and an auto mode for hands-free air purification. Additionally, there are preset run timers you can use.
Overall, the Coway 1512HH is a solid performer and a good choice for a bedroom air purifier.
0 – 250 Square Feet
Our final category is for air purifiers with up to 250 square feet of coverage. These would be a great choice for a bedroom, nursery, or any other small spaces.
Levoit Core 300S
Basic purifier, great performance
Levoit Core 300s
We have tested a few air purifiers that fall in this category, however, one in particular really stands out amongst the crowd, the Levoit Core 300S. The Levoit Core 300S is a solid choice due to its exceptionally good purification performance, inexpensive and widely available filters, and surprisingly expansive feature set for this price point. In our 1 hour test it was able to reduce the PM2.5 to 0.1 and PM10 to 0.2. In addition, it was able to remove 94% of the total particulates in the air.
The 300S uses a HEPA filter with a layer of activated carbon that is easy to replace as needed. It covers 215 sq. ft. with a CADR of 141 CFM. This a solid amount of suction for this price point and can generate a decent amount of noise.
Starting Baseline
- PM2.5: 3.7
- PM10: 5.7
- Particles: 859
- AQI: 15
After 1 Hour
- PM2.5: 0.1
- PM10: 0.2
- Particles: 54
- AQI: 1
Our testing showed the decibel range to be between 17-41 decibels.
The Core 300S is identical to the original Core 300 in terms of performance, however, the S model comes with some great usability features. It adds an auto mode and app connectivity, as well as custom schedules and auto shut-off timers. Overall, I really like the 300S for this category. It has fantastic performance and a plethora of great features.
How We Test
The most important factor we take into consideration is the air purification performance. To measure this, we place the air purifier in a medium sized room and take a baseline measurement of the current air quality using a laser based professional air quality detector.
After taking a baseline measurement, we let the air purifier run on the max setting for 1 hour. When the hour has passed, we take another measurement of the air quality in the room, and compare it to the baseline measurement.
This test allows us to objectively measure purification performance. When it comes to understanding performance, the most important thing to know is that smaller numbers are better. We want to see PM2.5, PM10, total particulates, and AQI as close to zero as possible.
Other Factors
With air purification performance in mind, we also take into consideration other factors including coverage area, filter type, and features that improve usability and convenience.
Coverage Area
Coverage area is the area in terms of square feet that an air purifier is capable of purifying at max power, according to the manufacturer. Some companies also provide a Clean Air Delivery Rate also known as CADR.
Choosing an air purifier with more coverage area than your exact size room will allow you to use it on a lower power mode and or increase the number of clean air changes per hour.
Filter Type & Replacement
There are many types of filtration systems, the most popular by far are HEPA and carbon, but we’ve also tested PECO, ionic, and others. While different types of filters have their pros and cons, ultimately, purification performance is the most important factor.
While I generally consider HEPA to be the best, a good HEPA filter doesn’t mean the air purifier will necessarily perform well. That being said, having a carbon activated filter is critically important if you need to reduce smells, odors, or VOCs.
Almost just as important is the filter replacement cost and how easy it is to find them. In general, HEPA filters should be replaced annually. However, your specific usage and environment could push that time frame as low as 6 months or as high as 18 months.
For all the air purifiers we have recommended today, filters are easily purchasable. In some cases there are 3rd party filters to choose from as well. 3rd party filters are typically 30-50% less expensive than the branded filter.
One final note, be sure to consider the coverage area with respect to the filter replacement cost. Air purifiers with larger coverage areas tend to have more expensive filters, however, the cost per square feet of purified space is going to be less.
Convenience & Usability
Lastly, many air purifiers offer a range of convenience features that improve usability. Having these features can be nice, but in most cases, they don’t impact air purification performance.
Air Purifier Reviews
At this point, some may be wondering why we didn’t mention a particular brand or model. In some cases, we simply haven’t tested that model, and in other cases we did test it and the combination of objective data and subjective assessment resulted in less than great performance.
Below is a comprehensive table of all the air purifiers we have reviewed to date.
Air Purifier Comparisons
Check out other comparisons of top air purifier models:
More Resources
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The Last Word
If you are still not sure which air purifier is right for you, please drop us a comment below or send us an email, and we’d be happy to help you decide.
Also, if you think we are missing an air purifier that should be on this list, let us know!
How is the new wave oxy pure I didn’t see that on the 10 best list how do you rate it ?
We have not tested that model.
Our 1600sq Ft Florida condo is in the middle of mold remediation. The mold report generated was horrifying. We are trying to find the best option to have when we are able to move back in to help keep us safe. Wanting the the best quality, affordable priced, small to medium sized foot print. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
Sincere thanks in advance for your help!
I would recommend the Medify 125 – https://moderncastle.com/go/medify-ma-125-air-purifier
It’s an even bigger version of the 112. Put it somewhere in the middle of your home and leave it on the highest setting that you can handle the noise from. It’ll get your air where you want it to be.
Hi, Thank you for the extensive work that you do.
I am a bit confused though and unsure of how to read these data… From your reviews, The Smartmi P1 has an outstanding performance score and seems to beat both the Winix 5500-2 and the Coway 1512HH. But the latter two are your two best picks for the 205-500 sqf category.
Why not recommend the Smartmi P1 instead of those? Shouldn’t I buy that one instead?
Thanks for your clarification
For SmartMi it simply came down to the filters were periodically difficult to find for sale (in addition to the unit itself at certain times). For a purifier to be considered for the best of list consumers need to be able to find replacement filters easily and inexpensively.
Hello, I didn’t see Himox on your list
Do you have a rating for them. They seen to be reasonably priced.
Thank you
I do not. We have never tested them (nor have I ever heard of them).
Derek…How about the Trio Plus Air Purifier, anything you can share with me on this model? Both good and/or Bad.
Thank you!
Greg
Not one I’ve tested or heard of, unfortunately.
Have tested Atmosphere Sky™ Air Treatment System
I have not
Did you test any of the small air purifiers that are good for travel?
Not a ton.
Here one by IQAir is designed for travel and fairly small – https://moderncastle.com/iqair-atem-review/ – it performed well in our tests.
Hello,
Have you checked out Happi? If not, do you think Our Happi would be a good large room filter?
Thanks!
I have not tested it.
Any reviews/comments on the Medify air purifier brand? Thank you.
In general, I’m a big fan. Medify made our best air purifiers for 2022 video. I still need to update this contextual page with them.
In the meantime, you can find our reviews of Medify’s purifiers here:
https://moderncastle.com/medify-ma-125-review/
https://moderncastle.com/medify-ma-112-review/
https://moderncastle.com/medify-ma-50-review/
Hi Derek
Do any air purifiers actually remove any virus from the air?
Or is the air flow the purifiers produce assist with the transmittal of virus indoors?
Thank
Most air purifiers remove some portion of viruses from the air.
Virus get airborne by hitching a ride on lighter than air particulates…namely water droplets, dust, dirt, pet dander, etc. All of those particulates are easily removed by air purifiers.
So any virus that was airborne is captured and removed by the HEPA filter.
I just bought an Ionicpro platinum. Do you have any review on this air Purifier? It’s a TA750. Thank you
That’s not a brand I’ve ever heard of. Sorry.
Hi, I’d love to hear your opinion about the Nikken Kenko Air Purifier. I bought 2 of them years ago and the replacement filters (which should be replaced every 6 months) are extremely expensive ($120-160)… I’ve always wondered if this is really a good product really or not. Or perhaps it is a good product, but way, way, way over-priced… Thanks!
There’s not much info online that I could find about the Nikken Kenko, but from what I did see, it looks like a nice purifier, but certainly not one worth spending $120-$160 per filter. They filtration looks to be part with any standard high-quality HEPA / carbon multi-stage system…which is to say, it’s good! But that’s an insane price per filter. Those filters should be more in the $30-$60 range.
Hi there. Have you tried Blast Air by Smart Air? a higher end sibling by SQAir which you have reviewed before. Pricing wise if getting it from China (approx USD400 excl shipping) for an air purifier that covers 1400sqft, its pretty cheap.
Unfortunately, no. That’s not one we’ve tested yet.
Am interested in your opinion of the Alexapure Breeze. Seems to offer a lot.
Not a brand I’ve tested before, but looks like a pretty typical HEPA + carbon air purifier. I expect in terms of performance it would be fine.
Though I cannot really speak to the brand in general.
Great reviewing!
My question is about the Levoit Vital 100 vs. Levoit PUR131. Your tests indicate 15 particles after 1 hour for the Vital 100 and 39 particles after 1 hour for the PUR 131 after 1 hour. In your opinion, considering the other test performance results for these two models which appear to be close, in real life is 15 particles versus 39 particles significant or likely to be noticed by (a) the average non-allergic user and by (b) a user with pet dander allergies?
Thanks for your help and your reviews! Keep up the awesome work!
Thank you!
And good question. To answer, no, a difference between 15 and 39 particles is effectively nothing. Any machine that gets 50 or lower particles is considered very good in my view. And the difference between 15 and 39 is well within the margin of error on our sensor equipment.
A few questions:
1. Did you look at energy efficiency? Are any of these models Energy Star certified? Can their energy use be compared?
2. My entire house is 1250 sq ft, but it is not an open plan. Living room/dining room is somewhat open to kitchen and spans the middle of the house, but I’d like my bedroom to be purified as well. With doors open would Oransi EJ120 or others pull and purify air from other rooms or would I need to buy purifiers for each room I cared about?
3. Filters are key. If they are expensive and don’t last long they can drive costs up –maybe higher than the more expensive models. Do you have any idea about the duration and cost of replacement filters. Are they all equally easy or difficult to change?
Thanks much for your work
1. Unfortunately, we didn’t look at energy efficiency.
2. If you position the EJ120 or other purifier centrally within your house and keep the doors open it should do a good job of purifying the entire home. A unit in each room might be more efficient, but it will almost certainly be more expensive.
3. In any of the purifiers on this list have filters that are easy to change. 12 months is a pretty typical duration for most brands, though it can vary based on usage.
Thanks for all your help.
I’m looking into the winix. What is the plasmawave they are promoting? Just a marketing play?
To be honest I like the look of the homedics machine. It’s sleek, nice round, just not sure it does anything….
Plasmawave is just their name for an ionizer. Doesn’t sound like it’s anything extra special.
Thanks for your advice. I have gift cards by target /Walmart many of the models you reviewed are not sold there. I’m looking for something simple, no need wifi, or sensors etc. Simple nice design 300 square feet or more something that has real good filtration for allergies my mother has breathing issues.
Looks for one that filters everything, that’s why I want 3/4 stage filters. The winex? What would you recommend if not the homedics? 250 range.
Are they all more or less the same? If I don’t need bells and whistles. Just solid food filtration.
Thanks so much!
If Winix is sold at Target / Walmart I’d suggest that. I’m familiar with that brand and they are well known / trusted.
I’d buy the most expensive Winix you can afford, as that will yield the best coverage area.
I call homedics the real Sq size is 343, the 1500 is cubic air. Cadr is 223
The reason in looking on this model cause it has a uvc light. Any other good fairly priced.
What about the blueair pure 211+?
Germgaudian ac9200wca?
Or maybe these uv lights don’t kill much more? Somewhere I read that it’s ineffective cause the air isn’t really passing thru the light and exposed to it long enough?
I would not buy this unit, or really any unit, due to the UV light. UV light can work. We tested a unit with a large UV-C bulb here – https://moderncastle.com/clean-tech-review/
However, the problem with UV light is it needs to be both 1) strong enough / lots of light and 2) shinning onto the surface for an extended period of time.
For an air purifier that’s pumping at 223 CADR I am skeptical that a UV light is doing much. The air just isn’t within the chamber of the unit long enough for that UV light to have a significant impact, in my view.
So your last sentence is right on the money. The air just doesn’t engage with the UV light long enough.
All that said, this doesn’t mean the Homedics is a bad unit. With that level of CARD + a quality HEPA filter it’s probably a perfectly good unit. It’s just that the UV light is more of a marketing angle than a feature that’s going to have a huge impact on the air’s quality, in my opinion.
I’m wondering about the homedics extra large room
HoMedics® TotalClean® PetPlus 5-in-1 Tower Air Purifier with UV-C
Has all types of filtration can’t seem to find the cfm or objective ratings. Anything you can say on those?
I don’t know much about it and we have not yet tested it.
Kind of a weird product page: ” Perfect for large family rooms, laundry rooms, bedrooms, and more up to 266 sq. ft. Circulate fresh, clean air every hour in spaces up to 1343 sq. ft.”
So I’m not sure if it’s coverage is 266 or 1343.
What room size do you test in? Have you tried an open floor plan?
We test in a medium sized bedroom.
We have not done tests on open floor plans.
Hello, what would be the top 5 travel air purifiers? for example for cars or desks.
Thank´s
#1 would be the IQAir atem – https://moderncastle.com/iqair-atem-review/
It would be suitably small enough to put in a suitcase. Beyond that, I cannot think of a single purifier we’ve tested that is really well designed for travel, while also being a good performer.
If you had an AC adapter for your car the Atem would work well there also. However, all of the super compact car dedicated air purifiers we’ve tested to date leave much to be desired. They just don’t pump out enough air flow to be effective.
Hi,
I recently purchased a Rabbit MinusA2, but I am not getting anywhere near the results as you are presenting.
When using the purifier on the highest setting in a 200 sqft room with closed door, I can get it down to about pm 2.5: 5 (even after running it all night). When I put it on auto (and high sensitivity), I get pm 2.5: 8-20. Note: my whole apartment is only 440 sqft.
I use a Temtop LKC-1000S+ air quality monitor, which has performed very well in tests, so I do not think that it is a problem with the meter.
Do you have any ideas of why the results are so different?
I am thinking about sending my unit back and try a different one (Air Doctor or Blue Air 211+).
Lastly, what would be an acceptable / expected PM 2.5 range when an air purifier is doing a good job in a room that is within the specs of the unit?
Thanks,
Laban
Hi Laban,
So a few things that could be creating differences in our results.
1) In our tests we typically turn off the HVAC so we’re not pouring new sources of particulates into the room while the test is running
2) In our tests we always use the highest possible manual setting. So whatever the highest fan speed setting it.
Did you take a baseline of your apartment’s air quality before running the air purifier? If your air quality was really bad before then getting down to a PM2.5 of 5 could be considered pretty good.
The EPA considers any AQI of 12 or lower to be good. Now, I think for an air purifier like Rabbit Air, in most cases it should get to the 2-5 PM2.5 range without must issue…but again, it really depends on the existing air quality in your room, any sources in new particulates flowing into the room, seals around windows / windows, and the speed at which you keep the fan on.
If you don’t think any of the issues I’ve detailed above are present then yes, you probably have a defective unit and should return or replace.
Sad to say, pollutants that are 0.3 microns is a *very* small fraction of the particles that need to be filtered out of the air.
The testing is not very valuable if it does not test lower than that. At LEAST .1 microns needs to be tested. And a laser tester is best.
I’m not able to find any data that shows the percentage of various sized of airborne debris, but I do find your statement hard to believe.
In any case, we test PM10, PM2.5 and AQI because that’s what most government and air quality agencies also test and report on.
Lastly, we do use a laser based testing device.
LOL! I found a lot of references to composition of pollutants in the air – specifically of interest is the wildfire smoke that is the impetus for so many air purifier purchases right now.
Here’s one quote:
“Particulate matter is the principal pollutant of concern from
wildfire smoke for the relatively short-term exposures (hours to
weeks) typically experienced by the public. Particulate matter
is a generic term for particles suspended in the air, typically as a
mixture of both solid particles and liquid droplets. Particles
from smoke tend to be very small – less than one micrometer in
diameter.”
From the EPA, no less:
https://www3.epa.gov/ttnamti1/files/ambient/smoke/wildgd.pdf
I’m sure you have written about this on your site somewhere, but what are you using to measure PM2.5, PM10, Particles, and AQI?
Thanks. Great information on your website.
We use an electronic air quality measuring device. This one – https://amzn.to/322iE0m
It provides readings on PM2.5, PM10, AQI, and a number of other air quality factors.
What is better for purifying a whole house? 1 unit like the EJ120 or 1 unit per room like some of the smaller units? Or do they work the same? Just trying to figure out air circulation as I live in a multi level home with multiple rooms.
They basically work the same, whether it’s a small unit or big unit. Both pull in dirty air, clean in, then pump it back in the room.
The EJ120 just does it at such extraordinary scale that you’re able to have just a single unit and cover a large area.
I would say if you have lots of smaller rooms that you can close off (bedrooms, office, etc.) then a series of smaller purifiers would probably work fine.
However, if you spend lots of time in larger rooms, open concept rooms, or rooms that are near exterior doors, then you’re probably better off with the EJ120 or something similar. The smaller units are great for smaller enclosed rooms. As room size increases, but especially for really big rooms, they are going to struggle more.
I’m extremely shocked to read this air purifier article comparing too purifiers because I always agree with your robotic vacuum/mop reviews and appreciate your comparison guides and accuracy so much in that space, but your air purifier comparison is a huge miss for me and sadly lowers the credibility of your reviews. Why? How can you possibly recommend or even begin to do an air purifier comparison without including IQ Air? They are by far superior to anything on the market today and honestly, your list doesn’t have the capability to even touch their purification ratings. Not only that, but iq air basically created the air purification industry and has been the best since! Additionally, iq air actually does so much for our air quality on a global perspective and doesn’t just sell air purifiers. They have started and continue to expand the air quality monitoring movement. They have air quality monitors that are also far superior than the one used to test output and it’s actually affordable… I have never been anything but an avid researching consumer of this space in the market and I can assure you by omitting IQ Air (THE INDUSTRY LEADER BY FAR!!) from all and any of your reviews you have greatly missed the mark of your stated purpose and sadly, this review and recommendations then ultimately become a huge disservice to for all of your readers. I do not, and have never, worked for iq air or ever even received something of theirs for a discount let alone free and I have nothing to gain from sharing or informing you of this so I hope you take this information and reassess your air purifier section completely.
Iq air created the Air visual map, which is the highest regarded air quality measuring service available and part of their raising awareness and making air quality a priority across the world.
I own their IQ air purifier, air quality monitor and ordered their ATOM unit last week, which is insanely amazing by the way and has won technology and innovative awards all around the world in the last couple of years- again, just another reason you are missing the mark by not having IQ Air anywhere in this review and comparison buying guide.
For reference, IQ air is the only company with heap technology capable of filtering the most dangerous particles (.003) proven through scientific research and certified over and over again. Most purifiers and ALL You have reviewed only have the ability to purify particles as small as 0.1 at best and most are 0.3! Iq air is 0.003!! That is a huge difference! There is reason hospitals and government/military only use iq air for things like disease and virus purification and the most dangerous and most important purification needs- it’s always iq air!! Why? Because they pioneered the air purifying industry and there is no competitor even close to their level of purification ability.
I own their health pro plus purifier, their air quality monitor, and like I said the Atom I just ordered – that is their personal purifier that is mobile and can also be set up for use in your car- just amazing technology. I hope you do some research soon and update and inform your readers accordingly. I promise you will thank me for catching this and making you aware.
I am pasting a blurb from iq air website below about particle size and filtration to help explain the magnitude in the difference and EXREMELY important difference in air purification filtration metrics and measurements. From iq air website:
“Ultra-fine particles are defined as those particles below 0.1 microns in size. Most air purifiers are only designed to filter large dust particles that are 0.3 microns in size and larger, but numerous scientific studies have identified ultra-fine particles as being the most dangerous to our health. This is because ultra-fine particles are so small that they can penetrate cell walls and enter the blood stream. Studies by the American Heart Association indicate that prolonged exposure to ultra-fine particles is a leading contributor to increased incidence of heart attacks and strokes. IQAir air cleaning systems provide certified filtration for particles down to 0.003 microns (the smallest particles possible).”
They are the best of the best. There is no reason anyone should buy a different brand if they want to get the best purification available, which is the point of buying an air purifier- otherwise just vacuum everyday and multiple times a day- that’s about the equivalent of most air purifiers out on the market. other than affordability, there is no reason to look at anything but iq air- but it is expensive and an investment initially, but some of these others you have on the list are shockingly almost just as expensive- which I find to be ridiculous, but again- this is only my opinion which is based on 2 things- my extensive research in this health issue of air quality & pollution since 2011 as well as my personal experience With IQ airs many products since 2012 when I made the initial purchase/investment for my sons health and future. I hope this helps someone make a more informed buying decision. Kudos to all who are even aware and educated to the point of purchasing and seeing the value and need to purify our indoor air- it’s sooo sooo important!
Thanks again for your comment, Amy.
I’m sorry to hear you did not find our air purifier reviews to be as helpful as our others.
To clarify, we did not include IQ air on this list because we have not yet tested IQ air. It’s as simple as that. Based on what I know about IQ Air I would expect their performance to be par with any of the best purifiers we’ve tested. And it is absolutely on our list to test in the future (hopefully the next few months).
Unfortunately, we have a finite budget when it comes to purchasing products to test. We prioritize that budget based on what our readers are looking for / asking about. Thus far, IQ air just hasn’t been as high up on that list compared to other products.
In any case, I hope this can at least help to explain why we did it this way.
this really works
Have you reviewed Austin Air Purifiers? I’ve heard they’re really good.
Unfortunately, no. Not yet. But they are on our list.
Hello Derek, I recently purchased a condo near the water, first floor about 577 Sqft. No basement just a crawlspace so I need to get under and see what’s going on, but the unit seems to have a musty smell. When I first looked at that unit, it was open and being used and the smell was mainly in the bathroom, but after folks moved out and had been closed up for several weeks the musty smell seems to be in the entire condo. understanding it will get better once we open it up, I am still looking for the best air purifier to reduce this type of odor. Wondering which air purifier would be best to combat this musty smell. I am looking at the rabbit vs the molekuke. I know two different technologies but curious on your thoughts on which will be best at reducing the musty odor. I like the idea of the Wi-Fi connectivity as I will not always be there. I’ve also read that with the carbon filters as good as they are they can release the toxins back into the air, but is this just a matter of making sure the filter is changed? Appreciate any insight or advice.
Hi Edward,
Thanks for the explanation of the situation. Based on your needs I would suggest the Rabbit Air MinusA2. In our tests it performed better than the Molekule. I also have more confidence in the Rabbit Air’s carbon filter at removing odors compared to the Molekule. This isn’t to say Molekule is bad, but I think in your situation the Rabbit Air is likely to yield better performance.
If that musky smell is due to water (which sounds like a possibility) you might also consider a dehumidifier. Something like this – https://amzn.to/2Xn3hwI
Let me know if there is anything else I can help you with. Thanks!
awesome
Nice product
These sound really good, I’m 8mpressed
The Dyson TP02 filter contains a (thin) carbon filter embedded within.
That is true. Though, it is indeed very thin.
I’m having trouble confirming, but I believe it’s coated with graphite.
While this is definitely better than nothing, I am doubtful that it’s able to achieve significant results (especially compared to thicker carbon filters).
how much does Molekule pay you to review and endorse their product?
No company, including Molekule, pays Modern Castle to review or endorse their products.
Modern Castle is supported when our readers buy products with our referral links. If you use one of our links and buy something we typically earn a commission. We explain these policies in depth here – https://moderncastle.com/about/
Molekule did not send us any free products (we borrowed a Molekule from a friend).
will You be testing any more Levoit purifiers? The new Core 300 looks promising
We don’t have any planned Levoit tests at the moment, but I’ll add the Core 300 to our queue and see if we can get one in the next couple of months.
Thanks for the suggestion!
When will yu be testing Oransi EJ?
Update – Our tests of the EJ120 are now live here – https://moderncastle.com/oransi-ej120-air-purifier-review/
We’ve added it to our list! I’ll see if we can get one soon.
Thanks for the suggestion.
When will you be doing a full review on the Coway machines? These are the top rated ones by Wirecutter and I’m curious to see if you have similar results.
Update – Coway 1512HH review is now available here – https://moderncastle.com/coway-1512hh-air-purifier-review/
Definitely. They are on our list to test within the coming months.
Hi there! Will you be testing Xiaomi Mi Air Purifier 2S or Electrolux Pure A9?
They are not on our immediate “to test” list, but I have added them now. Thanks for your suggestion!
Have you tested Air Doctor yet?
Not yet, but it’s on our list.
Seems like really great products.
I have heard great reviews on the Air Doctor machines. Have you reviewed those machines yet? I know the Molekule units sound wonderful and get great reviews but they are so expensive! The Air Doctor was suggested as a more affordable yet powerful air purifier.
I would be interested in your comments on this.
Thanks!
Hi Cindy,
We haven’t tested the Air doctor purifier yet, but thank you for the suggestion! We will definitely add that to our “to test” list.
medifyair
https://medifyair.com/products/ma-wm35
https://medifyair.com/products/medify-ma-40
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