Where should you place an air purifier?

Where you place your purifier varies. You may want to place it in a room where you’re particularly concerned about the air quality or know there is a higher concentration of air pollutants. Or you may want to place it in the room where you spend most of your time. Make sure you place your air filter in an open space. Homer recommends that you read your air purifier’s instruction manual for any specifics on placements. “Most manufacturers will tell you to place the purifier on a flat surface, out of direct sunlight, so it doesn't overheat, and away from the walls, so air can circulate around it freely," she adds. "Some may also caution you to keep the unit away from TV and electronics, as they may cause electromagnetic interference that causes the purifier to malfunction.”

How long should you run an air purifier?

According to Homer, how long you should run your air purifier depends on the current air quality and how quickly new contaminants may be reintroduced. For instance, homes with pets or greater exposure to VOCs may need to run their air purifiers longer or at a greater frequency. Homer also warns that seasonal pollen surges may also require longer and more frequent cleanings. Many air purifiers have eco mode options, which monitor the air quality and automatically turn the device off once it has properly improved the air quality. If your air purifier has an eco mode option, Homer recommends using it.

How do you clean an air purifier?

Every air purifier model is different, so carefully read the instructions on how to properly clean and care for it. Some HEPA filters are washable, and you can clean or soak them in water and reuse them. However, some reusable options are non-washable, and you may need to vacuum them instead. Homer suggests cleaning any metal-screen pre-filters with water or a vacuum. She notes that most disposable HEPA filters typically need to be replaced approximately every three months rather than washed and re-used. To clean your air purifier’s exterior, Homer recommends using a microfiber towel lightly dampened with your favorite all-purpose cleaner. If you need to clean the interior, she warns that most manufacturers caution against using soap on any internal parts of the purifier since soapy residue attracts dust and may clog up the machine. Whether you wash or replace your air purifier's filter, be sure to turn it off and unplug it before removing it.

The 11 Best Air Purifiers of 2023, Tested and Reviewed

Dyson Purifier Humidify+Cool Formaldehyde — The Spruce / Dera Burreson

Air purifiers can help ensure you’re that inhaling clean air in your home that isn’t oversaturated with pollen, dust, pet hair, and other airborne allergens. While there are many features to consider when purchasing an air purifier, its functionality, backed by a CADR (Clean Air Delivery Rate) spec, is the most important. Melissa Homer, chief cleaning officer at MaidPro and a member of The Spruce's Cleaning Review board, tells us CADR—which quantifies how quickly an air purifier removes air contaminants in cubic feet per minute (CFM)—is an important spec to consider when purchasing an air purifier because it provides “an apples-to-apples comparison between machines that cut through the marketing smoke and mirrors to how well they really work.”

Over the past year, we've tested a total of 47 air purifiers in The Lab, where we used an air quality monitor to evaluate their effectiveness and a decibel meter to evaluate their noise levels. We also evaluated their ease of setup, value, design, and features. After our original round of testing in the lab, we sent 15 models home with members of our team, who used them over six months to evaluate their long-term performance and impact on air quality. Our most recent round of testing consisted of 9 new air purifier models, these models were evaluated on the same attributes, but our testing was more sophisticated and included both PM 2.3 and VOC monitoring in addition to measuring the decibel levels and energy consumption of each purifier.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

Levoit Core 400S Smart Air Purifier at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Budget:

Veva 800 Elite Pro Series Air Purifier at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Splurge:

Dyson Purifier Cool Purifying Fan TP07 at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for Bedrooms:

Blueair Blue Pure 411i Max Air Purifier at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for Small Spaces:

Aroeve Air Purifier at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Quiet:

Winix 4-Stage True HEPA Air Purifier at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Smart:

Coway Airmega 400S Smart Air Purifier at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Humidifier Combo:

Dyson Purifier Humidify+Cool Formaldehyde at Walmart

Jump to Review

Best Features:

Bionaire True HEPA 360 UV Air Purifier at Walmart

Jump to Review

Best Design:

Rabbit Air BioGS 2.0 Air Purifier at Amazon

Jump to Review

In This Article

Our Picks
Other Options We Tested
How We Tested
What to Look For
Standout Features
Why Trust The Spruce
The Spruce Approved

4.9

LEVOIT

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Our Ratings

Setup

4/5
Design

5/5
Noise Level

5/5
Features

5/5
Effectiveness

5/5

What We Like

Very quiet, effective operation
Alexa and Google compatible
Great app controls
Three-stage filter system

What We Don't Like

High mode can be noisy

With its overall efficiency, quiet operation, feature-packed design, and smart home compatibility, the LEVOIT Cover 400S remains our top pick out of all the air purifiers we've tested. This purifier relies on an H13 True HEPA filter, which is part of its three-stage filtration system. A pre-filter focuses on filtering larger debris such as lint and pet hair. The H13 True HEPA filter is capable of targeting 99.9 percent of bacteria and viruses and filters a minimum of 99.97 percent of air particles with a 0.3-micron size, such as pollen. Finally, the carbon filter filters pollutants such as smoke, VOCs (volatile organic compounds), and various odors.

We were able to test the LEVOIT Core 300S in our most recent round of testing and found it to be just as effective at purifying air as its larger counterpart. The only major difference between the 300S and 400S is the appropriate coverage area for each—219 square feet and 403 square feet respectively. Both have the same remote monitoring capabilities and can read and track a room's real-time PM 2.5 rating (particulate matter less than or equal to 2.5 microns).

We appreciated that both models came assembled, only requiring the removal of the plastic cover from the filter, and that it was easy to connect the air purifiers to the app by scanning a QR code. You can access plenty of features via the digital display, but the app also has user-friendly controls and offers access to even more features such as setting timers and schedules. If you prefer to use voice commands over pressing buttons, this purifier is compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant. The different control options make this one of the more accessible models on our list.

You also needn't worry about this air purifier being an eyesore, since it has a sleek silhouette and futuristic design. In terms of its noise level, this purifier has a sleep mode for quiet operation while you rest, but we found it's still incredibly quiet on low mode. The high mode was slightly louder, but we did not think it would disturb a television show. However, the high mode might not be ideal for every sleeper depending on your white noise preference. All in all, both the 300S and 400S are solid picks for effectively purifying a room's air. We're just slightly partial to the 400S given its compatibility with larger rooms.

How It Performed Long-Term

After using the 400S in one of our homes for six months, we found that it eliminated a damp smell in the home's entryway. We tested moving it from room to room, and it left the air feeling noticeably cleaner in each space. It would even change the air quality status to poor when smoke occurred while cooking. Our only complaint is that we wish this model would alert us when it's time to change the filter.

Price at time of publish: $220

_{Coverage Area: 403 square feet | Dimensions: 10.79 x 10.79 x 20.47 inches | Filter Type: H13 True HEPA filter | CADR Rating: 260 CFM | Smart Capabilities: Alexa and Google Assistant}

The Spruce / Henry Wortock
The Spruce / Henry Wortock
The Spruce / Henry Wortock
The Spruce / Henry Wortock

4.7

Amazon

View On Amazon

Our Ratings

Setup

4/5
Design

4.5/5
Noise Level

5/5
Features

4.3/5
Effectiveness

4.8/5

What We Like

Easy to use
Quiet operation
Can be oriented vertically or horizontally
Efficient on high setting

What We Don't Like

May not be the most economical over time
Not as powerful as other options

Although its small frame may look unassuming, the VEVA 8000 Elite Pro Series Air Purifier is a powerful air purifier that impressed us during testing. On both its low and high settings, it was able to dramatically reduce the PM 2.5 and TVOC (total volatile organic compounds) contaminants within 30 minutes after being added to our testing room. We noted that it is especially efficient on its higher setting, which we think makes it a great option for small kitchens, family rooms, or other areas in your home where you may not need a larger air purifier.

Plus, even on the high setting, this air purifier only registered 53 decibels, which is equal to average room white noise. It's easy to install the True HEPA filter and the activated carbon prefilter on the back of this air purifier, and we appreciated how there was no guesswork involved in this air purifier's operation. All you have to do is turn it on and cycle through the three fan levels.

While we think this air purifier is a great option at under $100, we recognize that the cost of maintaining it—with a replacement filter costing over $50—may justify spending a higher amount upfront. However, this air purifier is on par with other models that we've tested in that the manufacturer suggests replacing the filter every 6 to 12 months depending on use. This air purifier also would not be the best option for anyone who has an open-concept home and is looking to purify a larger area. All in all, we still think this model is a great option for small rooms, especially at such an affordable price point.

Price at time of publish: $81

_{Coverage Area: 325 square feet | Dimensions: 9 x 8 x 23 inches | Filter Type: HEPA filter | CADR Rating: 120 CFM | Smart Capabilities: None}

4.8

Amazon

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Our Ratings

Setup

5/5
Design

5/5
Noise Level

5/5
Features

4.5/5
Effectiveness

5/5

What We Like

Intuitive app controls, smart features
10 power levels
Quickly removes smoke
Purifies and cools

What We Don't Like

Difficulties reattaching vented doors
Expensive

This Dyson model has a heftier price tag than other models we tested. But it certainly purifies and cools your air, has a futuristic design, and is compatible with Alexa, Siri, and Google Home. It relies on an H13 HEPA filter, and we were impressed by its ability to dramatically improve the air quality within five to ten minutes, as well as swiftly remove smoke. It has an impressive range of ten speed settings. We noticed no noise on level one and only a fan-like sound on level ten. It has a night mode too, initiating quieter operation and a dimmed light display for disruption-free sleep.

This air purifier can oscillate, and we found its movements very smooth. The long, sturdy power cord is convenient, and removing the vented doors to check on the filter’s cleanliness is effortless. (However, we encountered some difficulty getting the vented door back on.)

You can also use one of the compatible smart assistants (Amazon Alexa, Apple Siri, or Google Home) with voice commands to control this purifier. Or, you can opt to use the included remote, which is magnetic and fits into a little notch at the top of the purifier for easy storage. We found that it was easy to connect the purifier to the app, and we appreciated all the useful information it displays, such as room temperature, humidity, and air quality history. The auto-purify setting easily detected nail polish being used from quite a distance during our testing. All in all, this combo machine is hard to beat, despite the hefty price tag. Its quiet operation and intuitive features make it a worthy splurge, especially for older homes that experience warm spots due to poor ventilation inside.

How It Performed Long-Term

After using this all-in-one purifier and fan in a home for six months, we were completely convinced of its efficacy. We loved keeping it on the auto setting and appreciated how efficiently the unit detected poor air quality.

Price at time of publish: $524

_{Coverage Area: Not listed | Dimensions: 4.72 x 8 x 41 inches | Filter Type: H13 HEPA filter | CADR Rating: Not listed | Smart Capabilities: Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri}

Dyson Purifier Cool Purifying Fan TP07 — The Spruce / Henry Wortock

4.9

Blueair

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Our Ratings

Setup

5/5
Design

4.6/5
Noise Level

4.9/5
Features

4.3/5
Effectiveness

5/5

What We Like

Quiet mode
Bluetooth app connectivity
Significantly reduced room smell
Lights on unit can be turned off

What We Don't Like

Large footprint

Finding the right air purifier for a bedroom can be challenging, especially if you're a light sleeper who prefers a near-silent room. We were impressed by the Blueair Blue Pure 411i Max's quiet operation during our testing, which only registered at 53 decibels on its highest setting and consistently registered 48 decibels on its low setting. Between 30 and 50 decibels is considered average room noise, so you can count on this air purifier to efficiently clean your room's air while staying quiet. Plus, it has a night mode, which the manufacturer claims can operate as low as 18 decibels, although we did not get a chance to measure this level in our lab.

Aside from its quiet operation, we also loved this air purifier's sleek design, which would make it suitable for a nursery or adult's bedroom. This air purifier is controlled through one power button that can cycle through all of its fan levels and brightness modes, so you can completely turn off all lights at night. You can also choose to connect the purifier to the Blueair app and remotely control the purifier as well as monitor PM 2.5 levels in your home. The app also provides user insights like filter lifetime tracking and you can even control the purifier through voice commands.

While our PM 2.5 and TVOC readings for this purifier reflect its effectiveness, we were also able to notice a distinct improvement in our testing room's smell after leaving this air purifier turned on for 30 minutes. It not only brought the room's air levels back down to safe levels but also made it more comfortable to breathe the air without choking on a room spray scent and incense. Our one complaint about this air purifier is its size. It's meant to sit on the floor, which we recognize isn't ideal for every room size or layout. We wish it was just slightly smaller to sit on a dresser or bedside table. However, this aesthetic concern does not negate its overall impressive performance.

Price at time of publish: $170

_{Coverage Area: 219-526 square feet | Dimensions: 18.9 x 10.6 x 10.6 inches | Filter Type: True HEPA filter | CADR Rating: 141 for smoke, 125 for dust, 114 for pollen | Smart Capabilities: Wi-Fi connected, voice control}

4.7

Amazon

View On Amazon

Our Ratings

Setup

5/5
Design

4/5
Noise Level

4.5/5
Features

4/5
Effectiveness

5/5

What We Like

Compact footprint
Effectively improves air quality
Sleep mode
Easy-to-read air quality display

What We Don't Like

Filter cover could be more secure
Could be quieter on the highest setting
No pet hair filtration or VOC filtration

We ran this AROEVE air purifier for a full ten minutes on each available mode and marveled at how effectively it improved the room’s air quality after only two or three minutes. Pairing its efficiency with its quiet Sleep Mode and low-profile design, this is a perfect fit in small rooms like an office or family room. It has an H13 True HEPA filter and relies on UV technology to further cleanse the air. (Note that this model lacks both pet hair and VOC filtration.) And while we felt that the filter cover wasn’t as secure as it could be, we appreciated how smoothly we were able to slide the filter in and out.

We found that overall, this purifier operates quietly, but in high mode, it can sound as loud as a hair dryer. But one reason we love this air purifier is its sleep mode, which keeps the unit running at a particularly quiet level when it’s time to hop on a virtual meeting. It also has a straightforward display, in which different colors of light let you effortlessly read the air quality. The light display can be either dimmed or completely turned off, and you can set this model to automatically turn off after eight, 12, or 14 hours. In terms of design, this is a compact and minimalist-looking air purifier, so it shouldn't look awkward in your room.

How It Performed Long-Term

We ran this air purifier for at least six hours during the day on auto or set it to night mode in the evening. After using this air purifier in a home for six months, we've noticed that the purifier removed dust, allergens, and other particles. We also appreciate that the purifier's light system reports when the air is clean, and we enjoy using the night mode because of its quiet operation. We recommend the purifier to anyone who's looking for a reliable and low-maintenance model at a reasonable price.

Price at time of publish: $130

_{Coverage Area: 1,095 square feet | Dimensions: 13.5 x 7.5 x 17.25 inches | Filter Type: H13 True HEPA filter | CADR Rating: 300+ CFM | Smart Capabilities: None}

The Spruce / Henry Wortock
The Spruce / Henry Wortock
The Spruce / Henry Wortock
The Spruce / Henry Wortock
The Spruce / Henry Wortock

4.7

Winix

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Our Ratings

Setup

5/5
Design

4/5
Noise Level

4/5
Features

5/5
Effectiveness

4.5/5

What We Like

Helpful in-app features
Four stages of filtration
Alexa-compatible
Relatively quiet throughout

What We Don't Like

Boxy shape
Extra step to set up app location

Most of the air purifiers we tested exhibited a considerable difference in noise level from the lowest setting to the highest. While the Winix 9800's turbo mode was considerably loud, the other settings were far more impressively consistent, registering from 43 dB on a low setting to 57 dB on high. We found that running the unit on medium mode offered the optimum balance between efficiency and quiet. We also were impressed that the air purifier conveniently switches to sleep mode and operates even more quietly once it senses a room has gone dark.

You can control the air purifier via the unit's digital display, the app, or voice commands since it's Alexa-compatible. We had a difference of opinion as to the app's efficacy: In at-home testing, we struggled to get the app to set up and preferred controlling the unit manually. On the other hand, while the app was a bit of a hassle to set up in lab testing, it felt intuitive to use once we did. We appreciated that we could check in on the air quality, set schedules, join the filter club, review the air quality history, and view the filter life.

We were slightly disappointed by the air purifier's rather boxy appearance (though at least it is still clean-cut and sleek). However, the design aesthetic is not a deal breaker for us. Removing and cleaning the filter is easy, and this air purifier has four stages of filtration. First comes the pre-filter, which targets larger particles and debris. Then there’s the activated carbon filter, which tackles VOCs and odors, followed by the True HEPA filter, which filters 99.9 percent of allergens in the air. Finally, there’s the PlasmaWave Air Cleaning Technology. We thought this filtration system did a great job improving the air quality in our testing—and it did so in only five to ten minutes. It did not perform as well at picking up pet hair in our lab, but we will point out that most air purifiers are not designed to actually suck up pet hair. However, we still think this unit is a great option for anyone looking for an especially quiet air purifier.

How It Performed Long-Term

Our test team member who used this purifier in her home for six months noticed she coughed less after keeping this purifier on its lowest setting every day. Upon further use, we don't think this model is the best option for anyone with limited space. It is rather bulky, and we had to rearrange furniture to fit it into our home testing environment.

Price at time of publish: $330

_{Coverage Area: 500 square feet | Dimensions: 16.5 x 11.8 x 23.2 inches | Filter Type: True HEPA filter | CADR Rating: Not listed | Smart Capabilities: Alexa}

The Spruce / Henry Wortock
The Spruce / Henry Wortock
The Spruce / Henry Wortock
The Spruce / Henry Wortock

4.7

Amazon

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Our Ratings

Setup

5/5
Design

4/5
Noise Level

4/5
Features

4/5
Effectiveness

4.4/5

What We Like

Effective on all modes
Easy filter access
Alexa and Google Home compatibility

What We Don't Like

A bit noisier on high mode
Price

Compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, this Coway air purifier is a great fit for smart homes and anyone who prefers to control their gadgets with voice commands. It also works with an app, which allows you to conveniently check in on the filter status and air quality, as well as set schedules from your phone. We wished the app were a bit easier to set up; other models allow you to scan a QR code for easy sync-up, which is something this model lacks.

However, this was a minor inconvenience given the usefulness of the in-app features. In testing, we noted how convenient it is to monitor the air purifier on your phone. The app clearly indicates the quality of the air in a space, and it can also remind you when to change the filters. We appreciate that in addition to an auto and sleep mode, this product also has an eco mode that runs only when it detects a decline in air quality.

The Coway Airmega utilizes a three-stage filtration system: a pre-filter for hair and larger dust particles; a Green True HEPA filter that targets smaller dust particles, viruses, mold, and bacteria; and an activated carbon filter that helps reduce VOCs and odors. It was very efficient at improving the air quality on the low setting, but it did an even better job on the high setting. It was quiet on the low mode and predictably a bit noisier on the high mode.

The device has a sleek, aesthetic square shape that makes a great fit for corners. The easy-to-read light indicator lets you know at a glance if the air quality is good, moderate, unhealthy, or very unhealthy. The filters are located on the sides, and we appreciate how easy they are to access. Although this model is slightly more expensive, we appreciate the quality and detail of the air purity it offers.

How It Performed Long-Term

After using this model in a home environment for six months, we've found that it effectively improves air quality, and we appreciate that its functions can be controlled through Amazon Alexa. We have no complaints about the quality over time, although we did have to replace the air filter around the six-month mark because it had been running non-stop.

Price at time of publish: $636

_{Coverage Area: 500 square feet | Dimensions: 16.5 x 11.8 x 23.2 inches | Filter Type: True HEPA filter | CADR Rating: Not listed | Smart Capabilities: Alexa}

The Spruce / Henry Wortock
The Spruce / Henry Wortock
The Spruce / Henry Wortock

4.7

Best Buy

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Our Ratings

Setup

4/5
Design

4/5
Noise Level

5/5
Features

5/5
Effectiveness

5/5

What We Like

Three-in-one function
Quickly purifies air
Non-detectable noise levels
Compatible with home smart hubs

What We Don't Like

Expensive
Humidifier adds to required maintenance
Difficulties re-inserting filters

If you're looking for a device that wears many hats, this Dyson model can purify, cool, and humidify your air. You don’t have to worry about its multitasking detracting from its effectiveness as a purifier since we saw an improvement in air quality just five minutes into using this device. It uses an H13 HEPA filter and an activated carbon filter, and it has ten different power levels. We determined that the unit's noise levels range from undetectable to the sound of a small fan on medium, with the noise becoming more noticeable around power level 7. There’s a night mode as well for quieter operation and a dimmed display when it’s time to sleep.

Configuring the water tank for the humidifier can be a little tricky if you don’t follow the directions, but once we viewed the instructional setup video, the process was easier to understand. Keep in mind that adding a humidifier means added maintenance and cleaning needs that you needn't worry about with a traditional air purifier. After we opened this purifier’s vented doors, we struggled to re-insert the filter and close the doors.

Just like the other Dyson model in this roundup, the PH04 looks futuristic and comes with a magnetic remote control that can be easily stored on top of the fan. You can also opt to control it by app or with voice commands since it’s compatible with Amazon Alexa and Apple Siri. In the app, you’ll be able to see reports on changes in air quality and humidity. Also, like many other Dyson products, this air purifier comes at a high cost. However, we think its quality and multi-functionality make this purifier well worth its price.

How It Performed Long-Term

In at-home testing, we found that this model improved our team member's daily routine and cooled off any room she placed it in. It also countered pet dander from her labrador retriever, who is prone to lots of shedding, and helped mitigate their household's allergies.

Price at time of publish: $920

_{Coverage Area: 400 square feet | Dimensions: 12.23 x 11.02 x 36.33 inches | Filter Type: H13 HEPA filter | CADR Rating: Not listed | Smart Capabilities: Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri}

The Spruce / Dera Burreson
The Spruce / Dera Burreson
The Spruce / Dera Burreson
The Spruce / Henry Wortock

4.8

Target

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Our Ratings

Setup

5/5
Design

4.6/5
Noise Level

4.2/5
Features

4.8/5
Effectiveness

5/5

What We Like

Timer and nightlight features
UV ionization
Easy to use

What We Don't Like

Louder
Difficult to determine fan settings

Through our air purifier testing, we've found that sometimes extra features can diminish the appeal of the product. However, we found the Bionaire BAP0041UVWH True HEPA 360-degree Air Purifier offered the perfect balance of effective air purification and thoughtful onboard features. While this air purifier was one of the louder models during our latest round of testing (when on its highest setting), it was very effective at reducing PM 2.5 and TVOC in our testing room. It's easy to set up this air purifier by simply removing it from the box and protective plastic packaging. The filter is also easy to replace by twisting the bottom of the air purifier off.

While we were not able to measure its effectiveness in our testing, we are intrigued by the UV light and ionization features that this air purifier has. The manufacturer claims that the UV light can reduce up to 99.9 percent of viruses, bacteria, and mold. The ionizer binds small particles, making them easier to initially capture. While this model doesn't have any remote monitoring settings or live particulate readings, you can set a timer for 8-hour periods during the day or night. You can also turn on a nightlight, so this air purifier could be great for a child's bedroom or bathroom.

We did struggle to initially identify how the fan settings were displayed on this air purifier, but we discovered a faint Roman numeral light beside the fan button, which displays a "I," "II," or "III" in conjunction with the fan speeds. That said, this air purifier may be difficult to monitor in direct light given the faint display lights. On top of all the thoughtful features we've explained, we also think this air purifier's handle makes it great for transporting between rooms. While it might be best functioning as a floor model, it could fit on a larger table, kitchen island, or dresser. Overall, if you're not inclined to have a smart air purifier that delivers real-time readings, this air purifier is a great compromise that still effectively cleans a room's air while offering intuitive additional features.

Price at time of publish: $180

_{Coverage Area: 175-848 square feet | Dimensions: 10.98 x 10.43 x 17.01 inches | Filter Type: True HEPA filter | CADR Rating: 113 | Smart Capabilities: None}

4.7

Amazon

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Our Ratings

Setup

5/5
Design

5/5
Noise Level

4/5
Features

3/5
Effectiveness

4/5

What We Like

Stylish look
Straightforward controls
User-friendly digital display

What We Don't Like

Heavy

If you’re looking for an Energy Star-certified product that effectively cleanses a room's air, the Air Rabbit BioGS 2.0 Ultra Quiet HEPA Air Purifier is the model to consider. Keeping a low profile wherever it's placed, this model performed well in our tests. It offers a four-stage purification process, with a pre-filter, a HEPA filter, an activated carbon filter, and a negative ion generator, which produces negative ions that help keep the air clean. The manufacturer says the HEPA and activated carbon filters last up to three years when used for 12 hours per day, so you shouldn't have to worry about replacing them too frequently.

You can choose between five speeds, and each speed is quiet; we found none distracting. You can also set a sleep timer for four, eight, or 12 hours. There’s a filter life indicator, so you know when it’s time to change your filters, as well as an air quality indicator on top of the purifier. We found that the device automatically detected when someone entered the room and it would subsequently turn on to clean the air on its own. We've likened it to an air-purifying robot that cleans on its own. Plus, the digital display’s lights automatically shut off when the device is idle.

We don't recommend this unit to someone who needs to avoid lifting heavy, bulky objects. That issue aside, the digital display is easy to read, and the overall unit is modern and attractive. For your convenience, it also comes with a remote.

How It Performed Long-Term

During long-term testing, this purifier removed musty smells from a basement efficiently, especially when compared with other smaller air purifiers that had been previously used in that space. We were thrilled that it made a noticeable difference in the basement's air, and it allowed our testing team member to make better use of the space.

Price at time of publish: $370

_{Coverage Area: 550 square feet | Dimensions: 16.16 x 9.8 x 22.2 inches | Filter Type: BioGS HEPA Filter | CADR Rating: 136 for smoke, 149 for dust, 162 for pollen | Smart Capabilities: None}

The Spruce / Henry Wortock
The Spruce / Henry Wortock
The Spruce / Henry Wortock

4.7

RabbitAir

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Our Ratings

Setup

4/5
Design

4.5/5
Noise Level

5/5
Features

4.5/5
Effectiveness

4/5

What We Like

Customizable filters
Artistic design option
Very effective on high mode
Can be mounted to a wall

What We Don't Like

Expensive

This purifier has five different filters, one being a True HEPA filter and another a customizable option. With the customizable filter, you can choose an option that hones germ defense, pet allergies, toxin absorption, or odor removal, depending on your particular concerns. For households with pets (or for users who have pet allergies), we recommend the pet allergies filter, which traps and reduces pet dander.

In our lab test, this purifier cleansed the air pretty quickly on low mode; on high mode, it immensely improved the air quality within five minutes. We noted that it does a great job of purifying the air, runs quietly, and can conveniently be attached to a wall. You can choose to control this air purifier via the digital display, the included remote control or the compatible app. The digital display’s lights also automatically dim when it gets dark.

This model is unique in terms of aesthetics, allowing you to choose from solid colors, such as black and white, and also from artistic designs, such as Starry Night, Water Lilies, and Great Wave (for an added fee). It’s sleek, slim, and modern, with a straightforward display. Plus, the fact that it can be mounted on a wall could be useful for keeping the air purifier out of a pet’s reach or conserving floor space. While this model is definitely more expensive, our testing team member who used this in her home said she couldn't imagine not having it in her home, and she would even purchase a replacement for herself if needed.

How It Performed Long-Term

We kept this purifier on its auto setting while using it in one of our homes for six months, and we barely noticed any noise when the air purifier was operating in silent mode or quiet mode. We don’t even think the noise produced on the highest mode was enough to disrupt a movie-watching session.

Price at time of publish: $620

_{Coverage Area: 700-815 square feet | Dimensions: 7 x 21.4 x 20 inches | Filter Type: True HEPA filter | CADR Rating: 166 for smoke, 173 for dust, 171 for pollen | Smart Capabilities: Option to purchase Wi-Fi enabled model}

The Spruce / Henry Wortock
The Spruce / Henry Wortock
The Spruce / Henry Wortock
The Spruce / Henry Wortock
The Spruce / Henry Wortock

		Overall Rating	Setup	Design	Noise Level	Features	Effectiveness
Best Overall: Levoit Core 400S Smart Air Purifier	Amazon	4.9	4	5	5	5	5
Best Budget: Veva 800 Elite Pro Series Air Purifier	Amazon	4.7	4	4.5	5	4.3	4.8
Best Splurge: Dyson Purifier Cool Purifying Fan TP07	Amazon	4.8	5	5	5	4.5	5
Best for Bedrooms: Blueair Blue Pure 411i Max Air Purifier	Amazon	4.9	5	4.6	4.9	4.3	5
Best for Small Spaces: Aroeve Air Purifier	Amazon	4.7	5	4	4.5	4	5
Best Quiet: Winix 4-Stage True HEPA Air Purifier	Amazon	4.7	5	4	4	5	4.5
Best Smart: Coway Airmega 400S Smart Air Purifier	Amazon	4.7	5	4	4	4	4.4
Best Humidifier Combo: Dyson Purifier Humidify+Cool Formaldehyde	Walmart	4.7	4	4	5	5	5
Best Features: Bionaire True HEPA 360 UV Air Purifier	Walmart	4.8	5	4.6	4.2	4.8	5
Best Design: Rabbit Air BioGS 2.0 Air Purifier	Amazon	4.7	5	5	4	3	4
Best for Pets: RabbitAir MinusA2 Air Purifier	Amazon	4.7	4	4.5	5	4.5	4

Final Verdict

Out of all the air purifiers we tested, the LEVOIT Core 400S Air Purifier is our favorite. It has an all-around great design with its effective air purification, intuitive smart and app controls, quiet operation, easy setup, and attractive appearance. If you’re looking for an option with straightforward controls and instructions and don’t mind having a model with fewer cutting-edge features, the VEVA 8000 Air Purifier is our favorite budget pick.

Hamilton Beach TrueAir Air Purifier with Permanent HEPA Filter — The Spruce / Dera Burreson

LEVOIT Core Mini Air Purifier: While this air purifier initially earned our "best for small spaces" title, it didn't stand up to the performance of the models in our latest round of testing. It has a compact footprint that would make it ideal for a bedside table, but it can only purify spaces up to 178 square feet and it has a relatively short power cord, limiting its operation.

Bissell air400 Air Purifier: Similarly, this model was previously our "best features" pick, but we believe it's slightly overpriced given the expensive filter replacements and lack of smart features. It's also rather large, which limits its use to a floor model and may not be best for every home setting. However, the digital display is easy to use and we found it effectively purified the air in a home occupied by a great Pyrenees.

Coway Airmega 160: We found this air purifier was on par with other models during our latest round of testing, but none of its features made it a standout choice. If you're concerned with aesthetics, the blue color of this air purifier may be appealing as it easily blends into any space and does not outwardly look like an air purifier. Overall, this is a solid model that effectively purifies rooms up to 214 square feet.

In total, we've tested 47 air purifiers over the past year. In our original round of testing, we purchased 38 different air purifiers and tested them in The Lab in Des Moines, Iowa. We evaluated each unit’s effectiveness, noise levels, ease of setup, design, features, and value. Because of the technical complexity associated with air purifiers, we conducted both quantitative and qualitative tests, combining data and hands-on, practical experiences to rate each air purifier’s qualities.

To test each purifier’s effectiveness at cleaning the air, we set up five different-sized, zip-up indoor greenhouses, referred to as our "air quality testing chambers." We used a decibel meter to measure each air purifier’s noise levels on its lowest and highest operating modes. To evaluate the setup process, we timed how long it took us to set up each model and get it running, out of the box, based on the clarity of the instructions. We assessed each product's design, noting where it was best placed (e.g., corner, tabletop), how obtrusive it might appear in a room, and how agreeable it seemed to a typical home's decor. We considered whether the product's additional features, such as smart capabilities, added to its appeal. The final evaluation was whether all those results justified the price tag: the product's overall value.

Our air testing was complex but thorough. We took turns placing each air purifier in the tents. Before turning each air purifier on, we recorded baseline readings of each enclosure's air quality using a monitor and noted the initial PM 2.5 and VOC levels. We then released a clump of pet hair into the chamber and lit an incense match, allowing it to release smoke for approximately five minutes into the zipped-up tent. We measured and recorded the PM 2.5 level, then ran each purifier on its lowest mode for ten minutes, re-recording the PM 2.5 from the air purifier (if applicable with smart units) and an air quality monitor at the five- and ten-minute marks. We repeated this entire test on each purifier's high mode. If an air purifier was designed to trap pet hair, we checked the filter to see if pet hair was captured.

If the air purifier had a VOC-focused filter, we tested its effectiveness. To do so, we let 4 ounces of mothballs sit for 15 minutes in the closed tent. We then used the air quality monitor to measure and record the level of VOC gases in the chamber. We ran the air purifier for ten minutes, reading and recording the VOC level on our air quality monitor and the air purifier at the five- and ten-minute mark.

After testing the original 38 purifiers in this controlled lab setting, we used them in our own homes for six months. In addition to evaluating each purifier's performance in all the tested categories, we considered how it improved our day-to-day living (if at all) and whether we noticed any long-term impact on our lives.

Our second iteration of lab testing only included 9 new air purifier models to dedicate time to an even more sophisticated testing process. Again, we measured both quantitative and qualitative values and rated each model on the same attributes bolded above. In addition to testing with fake pet hair and incense, we also used scented room spray and a mixture of sawdust, dirt, and flour (2 tablespoons of each) to better simulate common air pollutants found in a home. Each air purifier had a dedicated testing room that coordinated with its purification coverage area.

To start the test, we measured the baseline PM 2.5 and TVOC levels at five specified marks in the room, then we first introduced the incense, allowing it to burn for five minutes before extinguishing (located six feet directly in front of the air purifier). While the incense burned, we dumped the dust mixture six feet in front of and four feet to the left of each air purifier. We also sprayed the room spray the same distance away but on the right side of the air purifier. After extinguishing the incense, we measured the PM 2.5 and TVOC again at all five marks exited the testing room, and allowed the air purifier to run on its lowest level for 30 minutes before entering again and measuring at all five marks again. Between our low and high tests, we made sure to allow the testing rooms to air out for fifteen minutes while we organized data. Our high-setting test involved the same three contaminants in the same locations throughout the room, but at the 15-minute mark, we entered the room again and introduced fake pet hair 3 feet away from the air purifier. We then left the air purifier for another 15 minutes and measured the PM 2.5 and TVOC levels at the five marks throughout the room. In addition to measuring contaminants, we also measured each air purifier's energy use with a power meter plug and took decibel readings of the low and high settings of each model.

All in all, our more thorough testing allowed us to consider each air purifier's effectiveness with different types of air contaminants, and we also considered the overall investment required for each model based on the cost of replacement filters and their wattage cost per year (determined by the U.S. average of $0.16 per kWh, 24 hours a day, 365 days per year using an average of each model's high and low setting wattage). Finally, we evaluated our latest testing results against our original results to update picks within this list.

0:28

Testing the Best Air Purifiers for Quality

Filter Type

You will notice three primary types of filters mentioned above: pre-filters, HEPA filters, and activated carbon filters.

Pre-filters typically target larger particles, such as pet hair and lint. They are the first line of defence in an air purifier's overall filtration system.
HEPA filters target smaller particles, particularly pollen, dust mites, and pet allergens. Look for an air purifier noted as having a “True HEPA filter.” True HEPA filters can capture 99.97 percent of particles with diameters of 0.3 microns and, according to the EPA, can capture even smaller particles. Our "best overall" choice, the LEVOIT 400S has a T13 True HEPA filter. It’s important not to confuse True HEPA filters with HEPA-type filters. HEPA-type filters do not guarantee the same level of performance.
Activated carbon filters target gases and can help remove VOCs, odors, and smoke from the air. If you live in a region or home where you are frequently around harmful fumes—such as cities where there is lots of car exhaustion or unpleasant odors such as those that can sometimes come from pets—make sure the air purifier you consider, such as our "best quiet" choice the Winix 9800, has an activated carbon filter. You can also find air purifier models with activated carbon pre-filters, which combine the functionality of pre-filters with the extra strength of an activated carbon filter. Our "best budget" pick the VEVA 8000 Air Purifier has an activated carbon pre-filter, which helps the unit maintain its compact shape.

Testing Air Purifiers — The Spruce / Henry Wortock

Room Size

Air purifiers are similar to heaters and air conditioners in that they have coverage capacity. Most air purifier product descriptions list the room size they are intended for in square feet, so you should have an idea of the area of the room you would like to use your device in before purchasing an air purifier.

If you plan to use your device in a large, open room, make sure the air purifier you consider is capable of properly monitoring and purifying the air across the entire space, not just a certain section. On the other hand, if you look to use your device in a smaller space, it could be a waste of money to invest in a product powerful enough to handle larger spaces. Our "best for small spaces" pick, the AROEVE Air Purifier for Large Rooms, quickly cleared polluted air within two to three minutes of operating during our lab tests. Although it's recommended as our top pick for bedrooms, it could easily handle a larger room, such as a living room or kitchen, with a CADR rating above 300 CFM.

CADR Scale

CADR stands for "clean air delivery rate" and refers to the volume of air, in cubic feet, that your air purifier can clean per minute. Melissa Homer, chief cleaning officer at MaidPro and a member of The Spruce's Cleaning Review board, reminds us this spec, noted in cubic feet per minute (CFM), is tested and measured by using a purifier’s highest setting to clean air of dust, smoke, and pollen. Among the products we tested that list CFM, the Coway Airmega 400S (our top choice of the best smart air purifiers) noted CADR ratings at 328 for smoke and dust and 400 for pollen. The AROEVE (our "best for small rooms" pick on this list) reported an overall CADR of 300+. To experience the maximum CADR of an air purifier, you have to run it on its highest setting, which tends to be its loudest.

But while CADR is important to determine air purifier effectiveness, Homer advises not to focus solely on it. She says a lower CADR can sometimes correlate to quieter operation and a less-conspicuous design, which may be a greater priority for you, depending on your circumstances. Our "best overall" pick, the LEVOIT Core 400S Air Purifier, has a CADR rating of 260 CFM, which makes it not only an efficient purifier but also an option with a quiet operation that shouldn't disturb your day-to-day routine.

Noise Level

Quiet operation is important because if you frequently use your air purifier throughout the day, it shouldn't disrupt your work, leisure time, sleep, and other day-to-day activities. As is the case with the best fans and air conditioners, some air purifiers are quieter than others, producing more noise as their levels go up. Many product descriptions note, in decibels (dB), the sound produced by the purifier, and we've listed those in every product's key specifications below the product description.

If you are particularly sensitive or easily distracted by noises, consider a model that has a quiet or silent mode. Many also have night modes, which activate a quieter operation or dim digital display lights to create a better sleep environment. Several of our picks, including our "best for pets" and "best features" options, the Rabbit Air Minus2 Ultra Quiet Air Purifier, and the Bionaire True HEPA 360° Air Purifier, offer silent modes. In long-term testing, we found that this setting on the Rabbit Air Minus2 made the purifier's operation virtually undetectable. Note that if your air purifier starts to make more noise than you consider typical, its filters may need to be cleaned, replaced, or readjusted.

Dyson Purifier Humidify+Cool Formaldehyde, WhiteGold — The Spruce / Dera Burreson

UV Lights and Ionization

Newer air purifier models may feature UV lights, which function as a sterilization feature to eliminate bacteria that may be in the air. These models are also equipped with an ionizer, which makes the particles in the air easier to attract and capture in the filters. Our "best features" pick, the Bionaire True HEPA 360° Air Purifier is equipped with both a UV light and an ionizer, making it a great choice for ridding a home's air of particles while effectively sterilizing it. Keep in mind that we were not able to test the manufacturer's claims that UV light does remove 99.9 percent of all bacteria and viruses.

Smart Technology

Many of the air purifiers in our roundup feature smart technology, whether that means they can be connected to smart home hubs through Bluetooth or be controlled via a smartphone app. In addition to our "best smart" pick, the Coway Airmega 400S, our "best for bedrooms pick," the Blueair Blue Pure 411i Max, also connects to a smartphone app where you can monitor PM 2.5 levels, change the fan speed, adjust the air purifier's lights and turn on a child lock to prevent curious kids from accidentally turning off the unit.

Adjustable Lights

While not all air purifiers have display lights, some units light up to indicate the fan level or simply display that the unit is turned on and functioning. If you're using an air purifier in a bedroom, it can be especially helpful if that model has the capability to turn off all lights, for sleepers who prefer a completely dark space. However, some air purifiers also come with nightlight features, making them great for children's rooms and nurseries. Again, our aptly chosen "best features" model, the Bionaire True HEPA 360° Air Purifier has a nightlight feature that will illuminate a ring around the air purifier.

FAQ

Where should you place an air purifier?

Where you place your purifier varies. You may want to place it in a room where you’re particularly concerned about the air quality or know there is a higher concentration of air pollutants. Or you may want to place it in the room where you spend most of your time.
Make sure you place your air filter in an open space. Homer recommends that you read your air purifier’s instruction manual for any specifics on placements. “Most manufacturers will tell you to place the purifier on a flat surface, out of direct sunlight, so it doesn't overheat, and away from the walls, so air can circulate around it freely," she adds. "Some may also caution you to keep the unit away from TV and electronics, as they may cause electromagnetic interference that causes the purifier to malfunction.”
How long should you run an air purifier?

According to Homer, how long you should run your air purifier depends on the current air quality and how quickly new contaminants may be reintroduced. For instance, homes with pets or greater exposure to VOCs may need to run their air purifiers longer or at a greater frequency. Homer also warns that seasonal pollen surges may also require longer and more frequent cleanings.
Many air purifiers have eco mode options, which monitor the air quality and automatically turn the device off once it has properly improved the air quality. If your air purifier has an eco mode option, Homer recommends using it.
How do you clean an air purifier?

Every air purifier model is different, so carefully read the instructions on how to properly clean and care for it. Some HEPA filters are washable, and you can clean or soak them in water and reuse them. However, some reusable options are non-washable, and you may need to vacuum them instead. Homer suggests cleaning any metal-screen pre-filters with water or a vacuum. She notes that most disposable HEPA filters typically need to be replaced approximately every three months rather than washed and re-used.
To clean your air purifier’s exterior, Homer recommends using a microfiber towel lightly dampened with your favorite all-purpose cleaner. If you need to clean the interior, she warns that most manufacturers caution against using soap on any internal parts of the purifier since soapy residue attracts dust and may clog up the machine. Whether you wash or replace your air purifier's filter, be sure to turn it off and unplug it before removing it.

Filtrete Air Purifier, Small room — The Spruce / Henry Wortock

Sarah Toscano is a freelance writer for The Spruce, who specializes in all things home tech. All the products in this roundup were tested in The Lab, where our product testers followed a rigorous testing methodology to properly evaluate each model. Additional follow-up real-world testing was done throughout the country by our volunteers. Prior to conducting our product test, considerable research went into deciding which air purifiers to test.

Toscano also consulted with Melissa Homer, chief cleaning officer at MaidPro and a member of The Spruce's Cleaning Review Board. Homer has over two decades of professional cleaning experience, including education experience in the professional residential cleaning industry.

Emma Phelps, an associate editor for The Spruce, also added long-term testing insights to this roundup based on one-month, three-month, and six-month results from our home testing. Phelps recently updated this roundup to include insights from our latest round of testing.

Here at The Spruce, we want to ensure that we fully stand behind every product we recommend and that when we say something is the best, we mean it. You might have noticed The Spruce Approved badge next to the products on this list. Every product with this badge has been rigorously tested in person and carefully selected by our expert team of lab testers and editors. In most cases, we buy all of these products ourselves, though occasionally, we get samples provided to us directly by companies. No matter how we procure products, they all go through the same tests and must meet the same strict criteria to make the best-of cut.

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