Toshiba Purego Review

We tested the latest Toshiba air purifier, the Toshiba Purego CAF-Z4US(H). Let’s see how well it did.

Pros

• Solid purification performance, reduced PM2.5 of 0.5
• Small, compact design
• Many features: Sleep timer, timers, turbo mode, & auto mode

Cons

• Coverage area is fairly small (198 sq. ft.), not suitable for large spaces
• Currently, there are no replacement filters available for purchase

Scoring

In This Review

Purification | Filters | Noise | Usability | Size | Specs | Summary

Purification Performance

To test the Toshiba Purego, we:

• Set up the air purifier in a medium-sized room
• Take a baseline measurement of the current air quality. 
• Let the Purego run on the highest setting for 1 hour 
• Measure the air quality to get another set of measurements

We can then compare the difference between the starting baseline and the post-run data to determine the performance of the Toshiba Purego.

This is what we found:

Our results show a moderately good performance from the Purego. Ideally, we like to see the number of particulates as close to 0 as possible. A PM2.5 measurement of 0.5 is good, but we have seen better.

To get these measurements, we used the Temtop LKC-1000S+ professional air quality detector. This device allows us to get precise readings and performance bearings before and after the test. 

For reference, we’ve included a chart on the testing criteria and what defines good vs. bad air quality below. 

The Filters

The Purego features a 3-step filtration system that includes the following layers:

• Pre-filter
• HEPA filter
• Activated carbon filter

The Pre-filter is standard with most purifiers and its purpose is to collect larger particles such as hair and dander to avoid clogging the HEPA filter. 

Notably, there is no activated carbon filter Carbon filters help to reduce smells, odors, and VOCs. 

The Toshiba Purego has a standard method of accessing its filters. 

• A clear button labeled “Push” is located in the middle of the backside. 
• Tilt and pull away from the seam to remove the top half.
• Access filter.

Noise Test

To test the noise levels generated by the Purego, we placed it in a medium-sized room where we took a baseline measurement of the current noise level with a sound meter.

Baseline Noise levels

After measuring the ambient noise levels in the testing room, we ran the Purego on its highest and lowest settings for 30 seconds and measured its noise levels from approximately 3 feet away.

Below are the results of each 30-second test for the minimum, maximum, and average decibel readings. 

Lowest Setting Noise Levels

Highest Setting Noise levels

Our findings show a noise level range of 15.6 to 46.0 on the Toshiba Purego. The lowest setting produced an average decibel reading that is well within a range most sleepers can tolerate. The highest setting produced an average of 39.6, which is perceptible, but not bothersome to most rooms. 

For reference on our readings, see this chart of examples at different decibel levels.

Common noise levels:

• 20 dB – rustling leaves
• 30 dB – whisper
• 40 dB – quiet library, babbling brook
• 50 dB – refrigerator, moderate rainfall
• 60 dB – normal conversation, dishwashers
• 70 dB – traffic, showers
• 80 dB – alarm clock, telephone dial tone

Usability Tests

Usability for the Toshiba Purego is excellent. There are few parts or accessories that come in the box and the setup is simple. 

Setup

The box comes with:

• Top and bottom halves of the air purifier
• HEPA Filter (already inside in plastic wrap)
• Filter basket (already inside)
• Power cord

Once the Toshiba Purego is out of the box you need to remove the packaging surrounding the HEPA filter, place it back inside the basket in the bottom half, and join the two halves. Insert the power cord and it should be ready for use.

Controls & App

The controls for the Toshiba Purego are placed on top of the unit.. They are represented in a circular glass LED display with specific icons for each setting. These include:

• Power Icon: On/standby. Purego will start in standby mode when first plugged in
• Light bulb: Toggle between brightness intensity and hold to reset filter 
• UV: Optional UV Light for extra air sanitation
• [M]: Mode selection with icons appearing to switch between turbo, auto, and sleep
• Fan icon: speed button to select between 1 through 12
• Clock: Enable timer mode
• Center screen: PM2.5 value display

There is also an LED emitted from the center front of the purifier.

This light changes colors to indicate the current quality of the air circulating through the Purego. It ranges from “poor” to “excellent” in the following order: red, orange, green, and blue.

Maintenance

Maintenance is fairly straightforward. There are two parts to the Purego that require maintenance.

• Filters: Replace as directed or when the indicator light turns on. The manual also recommends vacuuming or wiping with a damp towel once every 2 weeks.
• Air Vents: Filter basket is removable and designed to be washed separately from the rest of the purifier. You can also wipe with a damp cloth.

There is an indicator light on the LED display that will toggle on when the filter needs replacement. The manufacturer states that it should be replaced every 6 months.

This light is located just below the center numerical display on the screen.

Size & Dimensions

The Toshiba Purego is a fairly small, compact machine. It can cover a small room of no more than 198 square feet.

Here are the exact dimensions of the Purego:

• Length – 9.4 
• Width – 9.4 
• Height – 14.9
• Weight – 11.68.

You can see that this air purifier barely makes it halfway up this nearby couch.

Specifications

Specifications
Manufacturer	Toshiba
Model	Purego, CAf-Z40US(H)
Width	9.4″
Height	14.9″
Weight	11.68 pounds
Filters	HEPA
Wifi Compatible	No
Room Coverage	198 sq. ft.
CADR	127 cfm
Returns	Varies by retailer
Warranty	1-year Manufacturer’s Warranty
Price	Check Price

Should you buy the Toshiba Purego?

I would recommend the Toshiba Purego if you’re looking for the following features:

• Small and lightweight: The Purego weighs just under 12 lbs and can be handled by just about everyone. It is meant for rooms 198 square feet and under. This is about the size of a modest bedroom or office. 
• Many settings: For a purifier of this size, the Purego comes with more settings than many of its competitors. It has an auto mode, sleep mode, and timer to fit many different use cases. There are also 12-speed settings that can better match the needs of any given room.
• Easy display and use: While there is no remote control or app for the Purego, the touch console at the top of the purifier is easy to use and understand the various settings it offers.

For more information or to buy the Toshiba Purego, click here.