What Is an Air Purifier?

An air purifier, also known as an air cleaner, is designed to eliminate contaminants from the air in a room, thereby enhancing indoor air quality. These devices are often advertised as beneficial for individuals with allergies and asthma, as well as for reducing or eliminating second-hand tobacco smoke.

Commercially available air purifiers come in two forms: standalone units, which are small and portable, and larger units that can be connected to an air handler unit (AHU) or HVAC system. They find applications in medical, industrial, and commercial sectors. In industrial settings, air purifiers are utilized to remove impurities from the air before further processing. Techniques such as pressure swing adsorption or other adsorption methods are commonly employed for this purpose.

How Does an Air Purifiers Work?

An air purifier works by filtering the indoor air, removing various sources of pollution and pollutants. The process of air purification involves several steps. Firstly, the purifier draws in the air from the room, capturing particles in the process. Next, the air passes through multiple filters that trap different types of pollutants present in the air.

The effectiveness of an air purifier is determined by its performance, which dictates the volume of air it can treat based on the size of the room or area, such as bedrooms, living rooms, dining rooms, offices, common areas, or open spaces.

For optimal operation, it is crucial to have one air purifier per room. This approach ensures that each partitioned area receives adequate air purification.

20 Best Air Purifiers in 2023

In this article, we’ve listed 20 products. It’s time to explore them. 

1. Levoit Core 400S Smart True HEPA Air Purifier

The Levoit Core 400S Smart True HEPA Air Purifier is an outstanding choice for improving indoor air quality. It effectively filters particulate matter, including smoke and pet hair, as well as volatile organic compounds emitted from various sources. The air purifier utilizes three different filters: an activated carbon filter for absorbing odors and VOCs, a HEPA filter for allergens and air pollutants, and a preliminary filter for large debris. With its 360-degree air intake, it can purify spaces up to 400 square feet. The unit comes fully assembled, is lightweight, and operates quietly, making it suitable for use in various rooms. It also offers advanced features like Wi-Fi compatibility, allowing you to control it remotely through an app or smart home device. The Levoit Core 400S Smart True HEPA Air Purifier is available in white and black, featuring a sleek cylindrical design.

Pros

• Highly effective at filtering particulate matter and volatile organic compounds
• Lightweight and portable with easy-to-use handles
• Operates quietly, including sleep and quiet modes
• Advanced features like Wi-Fi compatibility and real-time air quality display

Cons

• Replacement HEPA filters are expensive

2. Clorox Large Room True HEPA Air Purifier

The Clorox Large Room True HEPA Air Purifier is a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise performance. It excels in filtering allergens, particles, and bacteria in large rooms up to 1,500 square feet. The air purifier features a tall, rounded tower design and a 3-stage HEPA filter. It effectively reduces particulate matter and volatile organic compounds, providing fresher air within a short period of time. While it performs well on its highest setting, it may not effectively remove pet hair. The noise level is tolerable, and it offers a whisper setting for quiet operation at night. The filter needs to be replaced every 6-12 months at an approximate cost of $60.

Pros

• An affordable option with impressive performance
• Suitable for large rooms
• Effective at reducing allergens, particles, and odors
• Whisper setting for quiet operation during sleep

Cons

• Not effective at removing pet hair
• Filter replacement costs may add up over time

Read Also: The Impact of Robotic Vacuum Cleaners on Everyday Life

3. Rabbit Air A3 Ultra Quiet HEPA Air Purifier

The Rabbit Air A3 Ultra Quiet HEPA Air Purifier is an excellent choice for alleviating allergies. It comes with a five-layer filter system, including an activated carbon filter and BioGS HEPA filter, which effectively eliminates dust, pollen, dander, odors, and VOCs. The air purifier is suitable for living rooms, bedrooms, and office spaces up to 1,070 square feet. It offers features like auto-mode, Wi-Fi compatibility, and a mood light function. While it excels at reducing allergens and odors, it may not be as effective at removing larger particles like hair. The purifier runs quietly, but its higher cost and filter replacement expenses (approximately $115 per year) may be a drawback for some users.

Pros

• Five-layer filter system for thorough air purification
• Suitable for larger rooms
• Advanced features like auto-mode and Wi-Fi compatibility
• Quiet operation and mood light function

Cons

• Not as effective at removing larger particles like hair
• Higher cost and filter replacement expenses

4. Winix 5500-2 4-Stage True HEPA Air Purifier

The Winix 5500-2 4-Stage True HEPA Air Purifier is a top choice for pet owners. It effectively traps pet hair and large debris using a mesh pre-filter before the air passes through the true HEPA filter. The purifier reduces particulate matter and VOCs by significant percentages within 30 minutes on its highest setting. It utilizes a four-stage filtration system, including a washable pre-filter, carbon filter, true HEPA filter, and Plasmawave technology. The air purifier is suitable for rooms up to 360 square feet and offers features like remote control, LED air quality indicator, and auto mode. The unit operates quietly and has a sleep mode for undisturbed sleep. The annual filter replacement cost is approximately $80. The design of the unit is somewhat bulky, which may not blend well with room aesthetics.

Pros

• Excellent at trapping pet hair and large debris
• Effective in reducing particulate matter and VOCs
• Four-stage filtration system with advanced features
• Quiet operation and sleep mode for uninterrupted sleep

Cons

• Bulky design that may not blend well with room aesthetics
• Annual filter replacement cost

5. Dyson Purifier Cool Purifying Fan TP07

The Dyson Purifier Cool Purifying Fan TP07 is an exceptional air purifier designed to effectively tackle smoke. With its HEPA and activated carbon filters, it quickly clears the air of smoke particles and odors. The air purifier boasts a two-in-one design, functioning as both an air purifier and a cooling fan. It offers Wi-Fi connectivity for remote control and monitoring through the accompanying app. The TP07 features 10 airflow speeds, including an auto mode, and has a night mode for quiet operation. It is Energy Star certified and Asthma & Allergy Friendly certified.

Pros

• Highly effective at removing smoke particles and odors
• Two-in-one design as an air purifier and fan
• Wi-Fi connectivity for remote control and monitoring
• Quiet operation and night mode for undisturbed sleep
• Energy Star and Asthma & Allergy Friendly certifications

Cons

• The higher noise level on higher settings

6. Aroeve MK04 Air Purifier

The Aroeve MK04 Air Purifier is an excellent choice for dust removal. It features a 360-degree air outlet for efficient air circulation and is compact in size, making it ideal for bedrooms. The air purifier utilizes a true HEPA filter to capture 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns, including pollen and pet dander. It offers a programmable timer, sleep mode, and quiet operation for improved sleep quality. However, it lacks a filter change indicator, requiring manual monitoring of filter replacement. The Aroeve MK04 is highly effective at reducing dust and odors, and it comes at an affordable price.

Pros

• Compact size and suitable for bedrooms
• Effective at removing dust and odors
• Programmable timer and sleep mode for convenience
• Quiet operation for better sleep

Cons

• No filter change indicator

7. Rabbit Air BioGS 2.0 Ultra Quiet Air Purifier

The Rabbit Air BioGS 2.0 Ultra Quiet Air Purifier is a top choice for eliminating odors. It employs a four-level filtration system, including a pre-filter, activated carbon filter, BioGS HEPA filter, and negative ion generator. The purifier effectively reduces odors and captures airborne particles. It features an air quality sensor, auto mode, and a quiet operation. However, it lacks remote control functionality. The filter life is longer compared to other models, lasting up to three years. The Rabbit Air BioGS 2.0 is Energy Star certified.

Pros

• Effective at eliminating odors
• Four-level filtration system for thorough air purification
• Air quality sensor and auto mode for convenience
• Long filter life of up to three years
• Energy Star certified

Cons

• Lacks remote control functionality

8. Blueair Blue Pure 411i Max Air Purifier

The Blueair Blue Pure 411i Max Air Purifier is an excellent choice for bedrooms. It quickly improves air quality and reduces allergens, smoke, and odors. The air purifier features a touch-sensitive display with multiple fan speeds and a filter indicator light. It offers Wi-Fi connectivity for monitoring air quality through the Blueair app. The Blue Pure 411i Max operates quietly and has a dimmable display, making it ideal for light sleepers. However, it may not be as effective at capturing pet hair. The filter replacement cost is relatively affordable.

Pros

• Suitable for bedrooms with effective air purification
• Touch-sensitive display and Wi-Fi connectivity for convenience
• Quiet operation and dimmable display for better sleep
• Affordable filter replacement cost

Cons

• Not as effective at capturing pet hair

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9. Vornadobaby Purio Nursery Air Purifier

The Vornadobaby Purio Nursery Air Purifier is designed specifically for nurseries. It features a compact and child-safe design with a weighted base and a built-in night light. The air purifier utilizes a three-stage filtration system, including a true HEPA filter, to ensure clean air for babies. It offers three-speed settings and a safety lock to prevent tampering. The Purio Nursery Air Purifier is effective at reducing allergens and operates quietly. However, the control panel is not well-lit, which may be inconvenient in the dark.

Pros

• Compact and child-safe design for nurseries
• Three-stage filtration system for clean air
• Multiple speed settings and safety lock
• Quiet operation for undisturbed sleep

Cons

• The control panel is not well-lit

10. Bionaire True HEPA 360 UV Air Purifier

The Bionaire True HEPA 360 UV Air Purifier is an excellent choice for small spaces. It features a sleek tabletop design and utilizes a six-stage filtration system for effective air purification. The purifier includes a fabric pre-filter, a mesh pre-filter, a true HEPA filter, a carbon filter, a UV light, and an ionizer. It offers a digital touchscreen display with multiple speed settings, a programmable timer, and a night mode. The Bionaire True HEPA 360 UV Air Purifier is highly effective at removing airborne particles, although it may be louder than other air purifiers of similar size. The filter replacement cost is reasonable.

Pros

• Sleek tabletop design for small spaces
• Six-stage filtration system for thorough air purification
• Digital touchscreen display with convenient features
• Highly effective at removing airborne particles
• Reasonable filter replacement cost

Cons

• Louder than other air purifiers of similar size
• Not as effective on pet hair

11. Coway Airmega 250 Smart Air Purifier

The Coway Airmega 250 Smart Air Purifier is an excellent choice for large spaces up to 930 square feet. It features a sensor that adjusts air purification levels throughout the day, ensuring efficient and energy-saving operation. The air purifier utilizes multiple filters, including a pre-filter, activated carbon filter, and Green True HEPA filter, to remove various pollutants, odors, and gases. It comes with a child lock for added safety. However, the filter replacement cost is relatively high.

Pros

• Effective for large spaces up to 930 square feet
• Sensor adjusts air purification levels for energy-saving operation
• Multiple filters for thorough air purification
• Child lock for safety

Cons

• Relatively high filter replacement cost

12. Dyson Purifier Humidify+Cool Formaldehyde PH04

The Dyson Purifier Humidify+Cool Formaldehyde PH04 is a versatile air purifier and humidifier combo. It distributes purified, humidified, and cool air back into the room, providing multiple benefits. The air purifier utilizes a HEPA filter, an additional filter for odors and gases, and a catalytic filter for formaldehyde reduction. It offers two airflow modes and features a 90-degree oscillation for efficient cooling. The device can be controlled through the MyDyson app or voice assistants. However, it is expensive and most suitable for enclosed spaces.

Pros

• Air purifier and humidifier combo for comprehensive air treatment
• Multiple filters for effective purification and formaldehyde reduction
• Two airflow modes and oscillation for efficient cooling
• App and voice assistant control

Cons

• Expensive and best suited for enclosed spaces

13. Coway Airmega 160 Air Purifier

The Coway Airmega 160 Air Purifier combines style with effective air purification. Its sleek and modern geometric design makes it a visually appealing choice. The air purifier reduces PM 2.5 particles by a significant percentage, although it may be less effective at filtering VOCs. It utilizes a washable pre-filter, carbon deodorization filter, and true HEPA filter. The Airmega 160 offers a touch display for easy control and displays real-time air quality. It operates quietly on lower speeds. However, it may not be the most effective at capturing pet hair.

Pros

• Stylish geometric design
• Effective at reducing PM 2.5 particles
• Washable pre-filter and multiple filters for thorough purification
• Touch display and real-time air quality display
• Quiet operation on lower speeds

Cons

• Less effective at filtering VOCs
• Not the most effective at capturing pet hair

14. Honeywell HPA5300 InSight HEPA Air Purifier

The Honeywell HPA5300 InSight HEPA Air Purifier is known for its ease of use. Its sleek design and light display panel make it user-friendly and visually appealing. The air purifier features a four-level filtration system to remove allergens, particles, pollen, pet dander, smoke, and dust mite debris. The InSight HPA5300 comes with a variety of specialty filters for specific contaminant removal. It offers an auto mode for convenient operation and operates quietly. However, additional filters may be required for certain odors, and it is best suited for medium-sized rooms.

Pros

• Sleek design and user-friendly light display panel
• Four-level filtration system for comprehensive purification
• Auto mode for convenient operation
• Quiet operation
• Effective for removing allergens and particles

Cons

• Additional filters may be required for specific odors
• Best suited for medium-sized rooms

15. Kenmore 1500e Air Purifier with SilentClean HEPA Technology

The Kenmore 1500e Air Purifier with SilentClean HEPA Technology is an ideal choice when you prioritize a quiet operation. It operates whisper quiet, even on its highest speed, with a noise level as low as 24 dB. The air purifier features three-stage filtration, including a HEPA filter, and provides real-time updates on temperature and humidity through its digital interface. It can effectively clean the air in rooms up to 1,500 square feet. However, the cleaning process involves using a vacuum, which may reintroduce contaminants into the air, and it is not the most effective at capturing pet hair.

Pros

• Whisper quiet operation even at the highest speed
• Three-stage filtration with HEPA filter
• Real-time temperature and humidity updates
• Suitable for large rooms up to 1,500 square feet

Cons

• The cleaning process using a vacuum may reintroduce contaminants
• Not the most effective at capturing pet hair

16. GermGuardian AC5250PT 3-in-1 True HEPA Air Purifier

The GermGuardian AC5250PT 3-in-1 True HEPA Air Purifier is a versatile option that offers effective air purification for medium to large-sized rooms. It features a True HEPA filter that captures 99.97% of airborne particles as small as 0.3 microns, including dust, pollen, pet dander, and mold spores. The purifier also includes a charcoal filter to reduce odors and a UV-C light that works to kill germs and bacteria. With its multiple speed settings and timer function, you can customize the purification level and set the purifier to run for a specified duration. The only drawback is that the filter needs to be replaced every 6-8 months, which can add to the maintenance cost.

Pros

• True HEPA filter captures a wide range of airborne particles
• Charcoal filter helps reduce odors
• UV-C light kills germs and bacteria
• Customizable settings with multiple speed options and timer function
• Suitable for medium to large-sized rooms

Cons

• Filter replacement is required every 6-8 months

17. GermGuardian GG1000 Pluggable UV-C Sanitizer and Deodorizer

The GermGuardian GG1000 Pluggable UV-C Sanitizer and Deodorizer is a compact and portable air purifier that is designed to eliminate odors and kill germs in small spaces. It utilizes UV-C light technology to destroy airborne bacteria, viruses, and mold spores, providing a cleaner and fresher environment. The unit is easy to use – simply plug it into any standard outlet and it starts working immediately. It’s perfect for use in bathrooms, laundry rooms, pet areas, and other small spaces where odors can be a problem. However, it does not feature a traditional filtration system, so it may not be as effective in removing particles like dust or pollen.

Pros

• Compact and portable design
• UV-C light technology kills germs and eliminates odors
• Easy to use, simply plug into an outlet
• Ideal for small spaces such as bathrooms or pet areas

Cons

• Does not have a traditional filtration system for particle removal

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18. Hamilton Beach TrueAir Air Purifier

The Hamilton Beach TrueAir Air Purifier is a budget-friendly option that delivers efficient air purification for small to medium-sized rooms. It features a permanent HEPA-grade filter that can be vacuumed to clean, eliminating the need for filter replacements. The purifier effectively captures pet dander, dust, pollen, and other airborne particles, improving the overall air quality in your space. With its compact and space-saving design, it can fit easily on a tabletop or shelf. However, it does not have additional features like a timer or multiple speed settings, and it may produce some noise at higher fan speeds.

Pros

• Affordable and cost-effective with a permanent HEPA-grade filter
• Captures pet dander, dust, and pollen
• Compact and space-saving design
• No filter replacements are required, the filter can be vacuumed

Cons

• Lacks advanced features such as a timer or multiple speed settings
• May produce some noise on higher fan speeds

19. Holmes Desktop HEPA-Type Air Purifier

The Holmes Desktop HEPA-Type Air Purifier is a compact and affordable option for improving air quality in small rooms or office spaces. It utilizes a HEPA-type filter that effectively captures airborne particles, including dust, pollen, and pet dander. The purifier features three-speed settings, allowing you to adjust the fan speed based on your needs. With its compact design, it can easily fit on a desk or tabletop. However, the filter needs to be replaced every 4-6 months, which adds to the maintenance cost, and it may not be as effective in capturing smaller particles compared to True HEPA filters.

Pros

• Affordable option for small rooms or office spaces
• HEPA-type filter captures dust, pollen, and pet dander
• Three-speed settings for customization
• Compact design, suitable for desktop or tabletop use

Cons

• Filter replacement is required every 4-6 months
• Not as effective in capturing smaller particles compared to True HEPA filters

20. Holmes True HEPA Allergen Remover Air Purifier

The Holmes True HEPA Allergen Remover Air Purifier is designed to provide efficient allergen removal and clean air for medium-sized rooms. It features a True HEPA filter that captures up to 99.97% of airborne particles as small as 0.3 microns, including dust, pollen, mold spores, and pet dander. The purifier also includes an optional ionizer to further enhance air purification. With its three speed settings and programmable timer, you can customize the operation according to your preferences. The filter requires replacement every 12-18 months, depending on usage, which should be considered for long-term maintenance.

Pros

• True HEPA filter captures a wide range of allergens
• Optional ionizer for enhanced air purification
• Three-speed settings and a programmable timer for customization
• Suitable for medium-sized rooms

Cons

• Filter replacement is required every 12-18 months, which adds to the maintenance cost

What to Look for in an Air Purifier before purchasing?

Filter Types: Choosing the Right Fit

Different filters excel at capturing specific pollutants, so selecting an air purifier with the appropriate filter is crucial. Here are the most common types of filters used in air purifiers:

HEPA Filters: Highly efficient at removing particulate matter (PM), such as pollen, mold, and dust. Ideal for those with allergies or asthma. Regular replacement is recommended.

Activated Carbon Filters: Effective in filtering smoke, odors, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Often used alongside HEPA filters for comprehensive purification. Replacement intervals vary, typically every three to six months.

Pre-filters: Capture larger debris and dirt. Some pre-filters are washable, providing cost-effective and eco-friendly options. Regular cleaning is necessary to maintain effectiveness.

Room Size: Matching Purifier to Space

Consider the square footage of the area you want to purify. Choosing an air purifier with an appropriate coverage area ensures optimal performance. Calculate the room’s square footage by multiplying its length and width.

Effectiveness: Clean Air Delivery Rates (CADR)

CADR measures an air purifier’s ability to produce purified air in cubic feet per minute (CFM). Higher CADR values indicate better performance. Ensure the purifier’s CADR matches your room size and desired pollutant removal requirements.

Noise: Striking the Right Balance

Excessive noise from an air purifier can be bothersome. Using a decibel meter, we measured the noise levels at both the lowest and highest settings. Most devices fall within the 20 to 60-decibel range.

Extra Features: Enhancing Convenience

While not directly related to air purification, additional features can enhance the user experience. Look out for:

1. Wi-Fi Compatibility: Enables remote control via smartphone apps or smart home devices.
2. Remote Control: Convenient control without needing to physically access the purifier.
3. Filter Change Indicator: Alerts when it’s time to replace the filter.
4. Air Quality Indicators: Provides real-time information on your home’s air quality.
5. Multi-Function Air Purifiers: Combination devices that offer additional functions like humidifying or heating.

Certifications: Ensuring Quality and Safety

Certifications validate an air purifier’s performance, energy efficiency, and compliance with safety standards. Look for:

1. Energy Star Certification: Meets energy-efficient specifications set by the Environmental Protection Agency.
2. AHAM Verified Label: Indicates independent testing of CADR and claimed room size by the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers.
3. ETL Listed Mark: Confirms compliance with North American safety standards by Intertek’s Electrical Testing Laboratories.
4. UL Listed Mark: Indicates compliance with safety standards by Underwriters Laboratory.
5. Asthma & Allergy Friendly Certification: Ensures allergen reduction in the air, backed by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) and Allergy Standards Limited (ASL).

Read More: Top 10 Quick Ways to Fix Air Conditioner Cooling Problem

How We Tested the Purifiers?

Below let’s check how we’ve tested the air purifiers 

Testing Methodology

To ensure accurate and thorough results, we employed a comprehensive testing methodology that encompassed multiple factors.

Air Quality Testing Chambers

Noise Levels

• We used a decibel meter to measure the noise levels produced by each air purifier.
• Measurements were taken in both the lowest and highest operating modes.

Setup Evaluation

• We timed how long it took to set up each model and get it running out of the box.
• Clearness of instructions played a significant role in our evaluation.

Design and Features

• We assessed the design of each product, considering its placement in a home and its compatibility with typical home decor.
• Additional features, such as smart capabilities, were taken into account when determining overall appeal.

Value Assessment

• Our final evaluation involved assessing whether the results justified the price tag of each air purifier.
• We considered the overall value based on a combination of performance and cost.

Testing Process

During our testing process, we systematically gathered reliable and accurate data on each air purifier’s performance.

Baseline Measurements

• Prior to turning on each air purifier, we recorded baseline readings of air quality in the testing chambers.
• Measurements included PM 2.5 (particulate matter less than or equal to 2.5 microns) and VOC (volatile organic compounds) levels.

Contaminant Release

• To test air purification effectiveness, we released pet hair and lit an incense match in the zipped-up testing chambers.
• The pet hair and incense allowed us to simulate common airborne pollutants.

Monitoring PM 2.5 Levels

• At specific time intervals (5 and 10 minutes), we measured and recorded the PM 2.5 levels using both the air purifier (where applicable) and an air quality monitor.
• This process was repeated for both the lowest and highest operating modes of each air purifier.

VOC Testing

• For air purifiers designed to tackle VOCs, we placed mothballs in the testing chambers for 15 minutes.
• Using an air quality monitor, we measured and recorded the VOC gas levels.
• Similarly to PM 2.5 testing, we ran the air purifier for 10 minutes and recorded VOC levels at corresponding time intervals.

Extended Home Testing

After the initial controlled lab testing of 38 air purifiers, we conducted an extended home testing phase. This involved using each purifier in our own homes for six months to assess their performance in real-life settings. We paid close attention to their impact on day-to-day living and observed any long-term effects.

Refined Lab Testing

In our second iteration of lab testing, we introduced nine new air purifier models. This allowed us to dedicate more time to an even more sophisticated testing process. We continued to evaluate each model based on the same attributes highlighted earlier, while also introducing additional simulated air pollutants such as scented room spray and a mixture of sawdust, dirt, and flour.

Conclusion

That’s all about the best air purifiers in 2023

By understanding filter types, considering room size, evaluating effectiveness and noise levels, exploring extra features, and recognizing certifications, you can shop for air purifiers like a pro. Armed with this knowledge, you can find the perfect air purifier to create a healthier indoor environment for you and your loved ones.