Models Considered
Hours of Research
Experts Interviewed
Consumer Reviews Analyzed
T he air in our house carries all sorts of particles, including dust, pollen, and microorganisms. The air outdoors carries them too, but, as space is open, their density is more reduced. Furthermore, in homes with pets, the situation is aggravated by hair, dander, and odors. So, what can we do in this case, to protect ourselves and our family against the effects of pollution?
You’ve already got the answer and we confirm that a strong air purifier will do the job. But what if we told you that you can get even more control over the quality of the air in your rooms? What if you could be in control permanently? A smart air purifier can help you with that.
These devices come with top-notch technology and can connect to wifi to transmit data on your phone. They allow you to select fan speed, activate modes, or check the level of pollution in real-time. Most of them are compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant, or Siri. Moreover, they come with strong filtering systems and advanced filtering technologies to cover as many problems as possible.
6. Germ Guardian CDAP5500B – Best for Bacteria & Viruses
Germ Guardian CDAP5500B
Specifications:
- Room Coverage: 167 sq. ft.
- Filtering System: 4-stage HEPA + UV light
- Filtering Efficiency: 99. 97 percent of allergens and pollutants as small as 0. 3 microns
- WiFi Compatibility: 2.4GHz
- Works with Alexa:
- CADR: Smoke 108 CFM/Dust 114 CFM /Pollen 127 CFM
- Noise Level: 29 – 40 dB
- Energy Consumption: 60 watts
- Fan Speed Settings: 5
- Highlight: Auto mode
- Filter Life: 6-8 months
- Air Quality Sensor:
- Air Changes per Hour: 4
- Timer:
- Filter Replacement Indicator:
- Energy Star Certification:
- Casters:
- Warranty: 5-year
Germa Guardian is probably the most popular brand in the air purifier industry. Their products are nicely-built, with sleek lines and minimalist control panels, and include advanced filters that make them suitable for a wide array of problems. This model comes at an excellent price and features a 99. 97% filtering efficiency for pollutants that have a diameter smaller than 0.3 microns. It uses the power of a HEPA filter to remove dust, smoke, and allergens but comes with a UV lamp as well that can be activated to destroy germs, bacteria, and dangerous viruses like influenza, rhinovirus, or staph. The titanium dioxide element is highly effective in fighting volatile organic compounds that have been associated with serious illnesses like cancer. Additionally, the device has been provided with an activated carbon layer that can neutralize persistent odors produced by cigar smoke, pets, or cooking. With a pre-filter placed in front of the HEPA, it stops the large particles from reaching the main filtering layer and thus increases its life span, which can reach up to 8 months.
It has been designed for small rooms measuring up to 167 square feet. The fan produces a great airflow, which is reflected by the CADR ratings, namely 127 CFM for pollen, 108 CFM for smoke, and 114 CFM for dust. It features 5 fan speeds and produces a low noise which can range from 29 to 40 decibels, so you can use it in a bedroom or a baby room during the night, as its sound in unnoticeable. The controls are placed on the top side for quick manual control, but you can operate it from the distance, as it offers both wifi and Bluetooth capabilities. Two indicators placed on the front side let you know if the wifi/Bluetooth is activated. You can connect it to your phone through an app and start monitoring the quality of the air in the room. It features a smart sensor for these measurements which works with the Auto mode to automatically adjust fan speed and quicken the purification process. The app allows you to activate the timer, the UV lamp, or power the unit on and off from the distance. Besides that, it works with Alexa and Google Assistant, so it is more convenient than you would have expected for the price.
In terms of power consumption, it can be considered energy-effective at only 60 watts. If we do the maths and assume that you will use it 8 hours a day, every day of the year, the total cost will be around $22 per 365 days, which isn’t a lot. This is why he has been Energy Star certified, as it consumes considerably less than a conventional air purifier. Nevertheless, there are models in this top that have higher capacities and lower consumes, so if you are interested in cutting on costs, you should take a look at LEVOIT LV-PUR131S, which has a maximum power consumption of only 40 watts.
What we like:
- UV lamp provides excellent protection against viruses and bacteria
- Low sound level makes it perfect for bedrooms
- WiFi and Bluetooth compatibility
- Works with Alexa and Google Assistant
- Auto mode and air quality indicator
- Excellent 5-year warranty
What we dislike:
✖ Can cover only small rooms
Verdict
All in all, it is the best fighter against germs and viruses. Not only that it offers a high level of purification through the cutting-edge HEPA filter and activated carbon layer, but it uses the benefits of UV light to destroy microorganisms that can attack the immune system. Apart from that, although it is built of plastic, it has an elegant design, with a sleek control panel placed on top that makes it easy to control. Not to mention that you can just utter ‘Alexa, turn on Germ Guardian.’ and it will immediately start fighting pollution.
5. LEVOIT LV-PUR131S – Best for Smoke
LEVOIT LV-PUR131S
Specifications:
- Room Coverage: 360 – 900 sq. ft.
- Filtering System: 3-stage HEPA
- Filtering Efficiency:99.97% of harmful germs, dust, pollen, pet dander, mold and other 0.3 micron
- WiFi Compatibility: 2.4GHz
- Works with Alexa:
- CADR: 135 CFM
- Noise Level: 27 dB
- Energy Consumption: 40 watts
- Fan Speed Settings: 3
- Highlight: Honeycomb activated carbon filter
- Filter Life: 6 months
- Air Quality Sensor:
- Air Changes per Hour: 1+
- Timer:
- Filter Replacement Indicator:
- Energy Star Certification:
- Casters:
- Warranty: 2-year
If you are familiar with the LEVOIT LV-PUR131, then you know what to expect from this model, as it is the smart variant on the previous. In fact, it is the first smart model produced by LEVOIT, and we must say they did a great job catching up with other brands that have released their smart devices earlier. They added a WiFi Chip and an antenna and thus allowed it to connect to a phone and pair with Alexa. However, the manufacturer didn’t consider it necessary to develop a special app, so you will be using it with VeSync, which is an application developed to ensure the connection between variate smart devices and phones. It is efficient though and has nice graphics. Apart from that, we should mention that the air purifier can connect only to a steady 2.4 GHz network, so make sure you have it prepared if you want to use the function. The app will provide you access to fan speed control and pollution monitoring. Moreover, you will be able to set the unit to turn on and off at specific hours or set the Auto mode for automatic speed adjustment according to the quality of the air in the room.
On the other hand, for cases when the internet is down, it offers a sleek digital panel, which is placed on the top. A digital screen shows the timer settings and can be manually turned off by touching the key next to the power button. Another nice addition is the Sleep mode, which automatically reduces the fan speed and thus the noise, allowing you to rest over the night. Besides that, it is super quiet at all speeds, not only on the lowest, with a peak sound of only 27 decibels. Not to mention that it is one of the most energy-effective, whit a maximum energy consumption rate of only 40 watts.
Regarding filter configuration, it comes with 3 purification layers, designed to cover large rooms that can measure up to 900 square feet. In this case, it will take it an hour to clean the air, which is rather long. The truth is that it functions at maximum capacity in a smaller room with a perimeter of 360 square feet, where it can perform a complete air change every 24 minutes. Plus, the 135 CFM CADR rating isn’t very high, so, despite what the manufacturer says, this is a device for a small space. Nevertheless, it compensates through the filtering technology, as it comes with a True HEPA filter and a huge honeycomb activated carbon filter, which have proven highly efficient in fighting not only allergens but smoke. You will need to replace them every 6 months, though, to maintain this performance, and, as in most cases, they aren’t cheap.
What we like:
- Sleek, user-friendly digital panel
- VeSync app is easy to use and offers access to over 10 advanced features
- Quiet operations
- Excellent smoke purification for small rooms
- Auto and Sleep modes
- Energy Star certified
What we dislike:
✖ Although it is advertised for large rooms, it is performant only in small spaces
Verdict
It is backed by a great 2-year warranty, and the manufacturer offers friendly customer support. However, you will want to buy it for its filter combination that has proven to be one of the best in fighting smoke and allergens. The app is easy to understand and allows you to schedule the purifier’s run time. Moreover, it is compatible with Alexa so voice command is available.
4. Molekule MH1-BBB-1 with PECO Purification Technology – Editor’s Choice
Molekule MH1-BBB-1 with PECO Purification Technology
Specifications:
- Room Coverage: 600 sq. ft.
- Filtering System: Photo Electrochemical Oxidation (PECO) nanotechnology
- Filtering Efficiency: destroys pollutants 1000x smaller than HEPA standard
- WiFi Compatibility: 2.4GHz
- Works with Alexa:
- CADR: 88 CFM
- Noise Level: 30 – 55 dB
- Energy Consumption: 20 – 80 watts
- Fan Speed Settings: 3
- Highlight: Touch-screen display
- Filter Life: 6 months
- Air Quality Sensor:
- Air Changes per Hour: 4
- Timer:
- Filter Replacement Indicator:
- Energy Star Certification: N/A
- Casters:
- Warranty: 2-year
It is innovative, not only through the smart technology but through the purification method, as it doesn’t use a HEPA filter, which is the standard among high-quality air purifiers, but the PECO method to kill bacteria and viruses in spaces measuring up to 600 sq. ft. The filtering system includes a pre-filter and the PECO filter. While the first is common to all models, the second is considered an innovation, so let’s take some time to explain how it works. PECO stands for Photo Electrochemical Oxidation and is actually an improvement of the Photo Catalytic Oxidation method which was largely used for purification before. Nevertheless, although performant, the previous technology had questionable results regarding its safety. With this unit, Molekule guarantees that the process is completely safe. It is based on the reaction between the UV-C light and titanium dioxide, which generates hydroxyl radicals. The radicals are unstable, and when they come in contact with the airborne particles, they combine with them and destroy their structure. Thus, bacteria, germs, viruses, and even VOCs are neutralized. Furthermore, according to the manufacturer, it captures particles that are 1000 times smaller than the HEPA standard, so it is a great choice for allergy sufferers.
We have observed that it has an airflow of only 88 CFM, which is rather low compared with the power of other units, so for best results you may want to use it in a smaller area than the recommended, so it can circulate the air more often. The sound is noticeable at the highest speed, reaching 55 decibels, but you can reduce it to 30 decibels if you select the low speed. Regarding the design, we have only good things to say. With a beautiful cylindrical shape and aluminum housing, it will immediately blend in with any décor. The design favors air intake and increases the purifying speed. On the top side, you will find a digital display that offers quick access to its functions, which unfortunately aren’t many. You can adjust fan speed and check the status of the filter, but you cannot set a timer. Furthermore, it can be controlled from the distance through an app, but not through vocal command, as it isn’t compatible with Alexa or Google Assistant. Plus, it lacks the Auto mode.
The power consumption rate can reach 80 watts at the highest speed, but you can reduce it to 20 watts if you select a lower setting. The filter requires to be replaced every 6 months, but the good news is that the unit arrives with a set that includes the PECO filter and 2 prefilters. Moreover, the manufacturer can deliver the replacement filters to your address. You just need to place an order on their website. Besides that, you get a 2-year warranty, which becomes active at the date of purchase, so you will be covered against eventual manufacturing flows.
What we like:
- Innovative filtering technology
- Efficient against germs and viruses
- Beautiful design
- Sleek touch screen
- Great 2-year warranty
What we dislike:
✖ Lacks voice control
✖ Low airflow
Verdict
To summarize, it is an innovative option that has already been tested in real-world conditions and delivered great results. It can fight dangerous microorganisms without generating Ozone or radiations that require you to leave the room during the purification process. Moreover, it is beautifully designed and would make a nice addition to every home.
3. AIRMEGA 400S The Smarter App Enabled Air Purifier – Best for Pets
AIRMEGA 400S The Smarter App Enabled Air Purifier
Specifications:
- Room Coverage: 1,560 sq. ft.
- Filtering System: Max2 Filter
- Filtering Efficiency:up to 99.97% of particles 0.3 microns in the air; 99% of volatile organic compounds
- WiFi Compatibility: 2.4GHz
- Works with Alexa:
- CADR: 350 CFM
- Noise Level: 22 – 52 dB
- Energy Consumption: 66 watts
- Fan Speed Settings: 4
- Highlight: Auto mode
- Filter Life: 12 months
- Air Quality Sensor:
- Air Changes per Hour: 2 – 4
- Timer:
- Filter Replacement Indicator:
- Energy Star Certification:
- Casters:
- Warranty: 5-year
Coway’s smart Airmega is expensive, but also the best when it comes to handling large spaces or heavy pollution. Its special Max2 filter, which mixes a True HEPA and a carbon activated filter, has an efficiency of 90% at neutralizing volatile organic compounds, and up to 99.97% when it comes to small particles down to 0.3 microns. The performance is specific to any HEPA-based air purifier, but what makes it even more effective is the 350 CFM airflow, which can cover spaces as large as 1,560 square feet. It is a great pick for homes with pets as it can circulate the air in the room for 2 to 4 times in an hour, thus maintaining the space free of floating hair, dander, or smells. It offers 4 fan settings, namely Low, Medium, High, and Turbo, but the noise level remains within decent values no matter what you select, with a range of 22 to 52 decibels.
Compared to Coway’s previous smart model, Airmega 300S, this one is larger and more robust. This means that the materials are better, and it is less prone to malfunctions. But it means it is heavier as well, and you will need some strength to lift it, especially as it doesn’t come with casters. With a 360-degree intake, it is better placed far from the wall so it can reach its maximum performance. The fresh air is delivered through the top of the unit, where you will find the controls as well. As this is a smart device, the number of settings on the unit has been reduced to a power button and a filter light indicator. Nevertheless, you will be able to adjust fan speed, set a timer, or select the Auto mode from your phone. It is compatible with Alexa as well. You just need to ensure a strong 24 GHz WiFi connection.
With a maximum power consumption rate of 66 watts, we can place it somewhere in the middle, especially if we consider the area it can cover. This rate will generate a cost of approximately $24 per year, assuming that you are going to run it for 8 hours every day, which is pretty low. Apart from that, it comes with an Eco mode, which can drastically reduce energy consumption, and a timer for runtime customization.
Just like in any Airmega model, the air quality monitoring function is included. Two nice circles on the front side will let you know at any moment how clean is the air you are breathing. But this is not all, as the function has been improved, and now you can keep an eye on the pollution level even when you aren’t in the room. The special app provides real-time reports and allows for easy customization of the device. Besides all that, we should mention that it comes with an excellent 5-year warranty, which is offered by a manufacturer with over 30 years of experience in the industry, so you can rest assured that it will be promptly honored.
What we like:
- Suitable for large rooms
- Powerful fan can generate up to 350 CFM
- Long 12-month filter lifespan
- Generous 5-year warranty
- Compatible with Alexa
What we dislike:
✖ Bulky design
Verdict
It is an expensive unit, but one of the most powerful and reliable on the market. Although the technology isn’t innovative, it uses only high-quality filters that are top-notch in their class and features an excellent CADR, being able to cover large spaces and quickly remove allergens and odors in homes with pets.
2. Dyson Pure Hot + Cool HP02 – Best for Allergies
Dyson Pure Hot + Cool HP02
Specifications:
- Room Coverage: 500 – 1,200 sq. ft.
- Filtering System: HEPA filter
- Filtering Efficiency: 99. 97 percent of allergens and pollutants as small as 0. 3 microns
- WiFi Compatibility: 2.4GHz
- Works with Alexa:
- CADR: 423 CFM
- Noise Level: 64 dB
- Energy Consumption: 1,575 watts
- Fan Speed Settings: 10
- Highlight: Fan/Heater function
- Filter Life: 12 months
- Air Quality Sensor:
- Air Changes per Hour: 2+
- Timer:
- Filter Replacement Indicator:
- Energy Star Certification:
- Casters:
- Warranty: 2-year
A multifunctional device, it combines a fan and a high-end air purifier, perfect for cooling or heating the atmosphere while maintaining the air clean and crisp. It comes with a powerful fan that can cover rooms measuring 500 to 1,200 square feet where it can circulate the air at least 2 times in an hour. The filtering technology is quite innovative, with a glass HEPA filter and a second carbon activated layer. It features an efficiency of 99.97% in removing tiny particles with a diameter down to 0.3 microns, which is an excellent rate, achieved by all units that use HEPA filters. Nevertheless, the 423 CFM CADR rating isn’t as common, a distinction that makes it the best choice for fighting allergies. With such a high cleaning rate, the pollen, dust, or bacteria won’t have time to float freely around the room and cause sneezes and watery eyes.
Regarding power consumption, you must assume that this isn’t a simple air purifier, but a fan, so it is impossible to get the low rates offered by other units. The truth is that it draws a maximum of 1,575 watts and isn’t energy effective. But the airflow is strong, and you will be able to enjoy a cool atmosphere during the summer and a nice warmth during the winter. Plus, due to the Jet Focus control, the airflow can be directed towards a single direction so you can concentrate all the coolness/warmth on yourself.
The design is modern, with the air being drawn from the base of the unit with a 360-degree intake and being released through the top for maximum efficiency. At the base, you will find the digital panel, which is simple and elegant, as all the functions have been transferred to the app. Nevertheless, it allows you to turn on/off the unit, check WiFi strength, and the temperature in the room. On the other hand, once you connect it to the app, you will be able to monitor not only the temperature but humidity as well and get access to speed settings, which are no less than 10. Moreover, it features a pollution sensor, which works with the Auto mode to adjust speeds according to the quality of the air in the room. This means that when the level of pollution is high, the fan will work harder to reduce it.
The filter is easy to remove and can last for a full year, so you will cut a bit on filter replacement costs. You can set the timer to power it off after a certain time to reduce energy consumption or just run it at a slower speed, which will reduce the noise as well. At 64 decibels, it is rather noisy, so unless you are a withe noise enthusiast, we wouldn’t recommend placing it in a bedroom. Still, you will be able to control it from your bed, as it is compatible with both Alexa and Siri.
What we like:
- Heating and cooling function
- Huge CADR rating
- Works with Alexa and Siri
- Highly-customizable with up to 10 speed settings
- Air quality monitoring function
What we dislike:
✖ High energy consumption
Verdict
Perfect for the summer and perfect for the winter, it offers the complete package. Both the fan and the purification functions are performant in large spaces and can be controlled from the distance through Alexa, Siri, or a phone app. It has a high consumption rate, but you must consider that you get 2 appliances in one. Plus, it comes with a good 2-year warranty that will save you of supplementary expenses in case a mishap shall occur.
1. Blueair Classic 605 – Best Overall
Blueair Classic 605
Specifications:
- Room Coverage: 775 sq. ft.
- Filtering System: HepaSilent technology
- Filtering Efficiency: 99.97% of air airborne pollutants down to 0.1 microns
- WiFi Compatibility: compatible with 802.11 b/g/n router on 2.4GHz Wi-Fi Network band. Network security; open, WEP, WPA, & WPA2
- Works with Alexa:
- CADR: Smoke 500 CFM/Dust 500 CFM /Pollen 640 CFM
- Noise Level: 32 – 62 dB
- Energy Consumption: 15 – 100 watts
- Fan Speed Settings: 3
- Highlight: Intuitive design
- Filter Life: 6 months
- Air Quality Sensor:
- Air Changes per Hour: 5
- Timer:
- Filter Replacement Indicator:
- Energy Star Certification:
- Casters:
- Warranty: 1-year
This is a fantastic device that has conquered the customers through its sleek design and high-end features. It is huge and incorporates all the smart functions you could think about, so it is up for some serious work. It is expensive as well, but when you look at its coverage capabilities or CADR ratings, it’s impossible not to understand that it is worth every penny. Apart from that, it is fairly easy to deal with its size, as it comes with casters for easy transportation.
Outstanding Clean Air Delivery Rate
Most air purifiers are efficient in fighting air pollutants, but the question is how fast can they do it. For an allergy sufferer every moment counts and the longer it takes for the device to circulate the air the higher the chance of them getting watery eyes and a runny nose becomes. In this case, a unit that can provide a high CADR is the best solution, and this model surely outpasses all:
- Dust – 500 CFM
- Pollen – 640 CFM
- Smoke – 500 CFM
The Hepa Silent technology is more performant than a simple HEPA filter, as it can neutralize 99.97 particles that are bigger than 0.1 microns, while classic HEPA can only deal with particles down to 0.3 microns. However, this filtering system doesn’t incorporate an activated carbon filter, and you will need to pay extra on a DualProtection filter if you want to get rid of odors and smoke.
Advanced Control
The digital panel is placed on the top of the unit and offers access to all the functions and indicator lights, unlike other units that have reduced the number of buttons once they added a WiFi capability. Thus, even if the internet isn’t working you will get access to a wide array of controls and parameters:
- Timer – Allows you to set the runtime and reduce energy consumption
- Night Mode – Lowers fan speed and reduces noise
- Speed adjustment – 3 speed options
- Filter replacement indicator – Will activate when the filter needs to be changed, at about 6 months from the last replacement
It needs a steady 2.4 GHz connection to pair with Alexa and allow for voice control. However, it lacks an auto mode, which is really a shame as all its competitors include it. But it is energy efficient with an energy consumption rate that variates between 15 and 100 watts and can cover spaces measuring up to 700 square feet, which is truly a performance.
Whisper-Quiet Operations
Incredibly, a unit of this size can work at a sound level of 32 decibels. But this value can be maintained as long as you set it to run at the lowest speed. At the highest speed, it can reach 62 decibels, but with its capacity, you won’t need to select it too often. Furthermore, as it comes with a Night mode, you can easily program it to keep it quiet while you recharge your batteries.
What we like:
- Energy Star certified
- High CFM makes it suitable for polluted environments
- Low noise level
- Works with Alexa
- Efficient filtering technology
What we dislike:
✖ Lacks an Auto mode
✖ Only 1-year warranty
Verdict
It is the best smart unit you gen get for your house at the moment. It has a strong CADR rating, multiple smart functions, and can cover extended areas with amazing efficiency. Although it is bulky, it is easy to move as it comes with casters. Plus, it is sleek and will fit in every home, no matter the decorative style.
Top 6 Comparison
| Photo | Products | Price |
|---|---|---|
Best Overall |
1. Blueair Classic 605
|
Check Price at Amazon |
Best for Allergies |
2. Dyson Pure Hot + Cool HP02
|
Check Price at Amazon |
Best for Pets |
3. AIRMEGA 400S The Smarter App Enabled Air Purifier
|
Check Price at Amazon |
Editor’s Choice |
4. Molekule MH1-BBB-1 with PECO Purification Technology
|
Check Price at Amazon |
Best for Smoke |
5. LEVOIT LV-PUR131S
|
Check Price at Amazon |
Best for Bacteria & Viruses |
6. Germ Guardian CDAP5500B
|
Check Price at Amazon |
