The Best Air Purifier - A Buying Guide

Current list of top rated air purifiers overall:
1. Winix 5500-2 - amzn.to/2Pwp1Dx
2. Coway Mighty - amzn.to/2TjOy3O
3. Austin Air HealthMate - amzn.to/2TaVXny
The latest updated list of top rated air purifiers overall: www.consumeran...
Pellet vs fibrous carbon filters are discussed in more detail here: www.consumeran...
In this video we go over all of the features you need to look out for when buying an air purifier although we discuss which features are not important first.
To end the video we show how the best air purifiers have all of the features you might want. We also show which specific models are the best options currently.
Note: some of the links used in the description will direct you to Amazon. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

[@tinoosukhadia7892]

Dude.. Brilliant work, no fancy graphics, useless background audio and unnecessary elongated information. Your videos are crisp, to the point and thoroughly researched on the subject. Hope you get to a million subscribers soon.. Excellent !

[@consumer-analysis]

Thank you very much for the positive feedback. It's much appreciated!

[@leepinnguin9682]

Well said T. Sukhadia!

[@josephsy]

I second Tinoo's statement, subbed, need more content creators to follow your lead 💪

[@JAYJAYJAY53]

I agree .

[@zan5051]

I watched this video about six months ago and bought four Winix air purifiers. They've been running continuously since then, and I just bought two more. I absolutely LOVE them! They work great, you can really feel and smell the difference. The light indicators seem accurate and sometimes even alert us to issues we didn't consider. All the filters can be cleaned relatively easily. I like to take them outside and use compressed air to blow them out so as to damage the hepa filters as little as possible. I certainly couldn't have made such a big financial investment in the purity of the air in my home without the incredibly well-delivered and comprehensive reviews found on this channel, so thanks!

[@consumer-analysis]

You're very welcome!

[@camillecarter179]

The absolute best review of air purifiers. The description of filters, which increase your cost , yet don't really add much to performance was the kind information I have not found in at least 40 reviews I have read or watched. Told me exactly what I need to know to make my decision. Thank you for the honest and practical review I was searching for.

[@ms5326]

I'm glad I discovered this channel. The content quality is excellent. I will definitely recommend it to my friends. Thank you for the things you have thought me and keep up the good work.

[@kimberlyhaugan9983]

I love my veva9000 air purifier. What a difference in the air quality over 1 years time during the pandemic.

[@tompiscitelli8558]

Well done for evaluating low-cost air filters. However, if addressing all of the potentially harmful airborne contaminants is the priority, then here is what these products don't do. 1) They don't cause the smallest, most harmful, airborne particles to agglomerate, making them large enough to be circulated by the air and brought back to the filter, 2) they don't kill pathogens 3) once saturated, carbon filters will actually release VOCs and odors back into the space, 4) they don't have an effect on anything outside of a very small room. If possible, installing a premium air purifier in the heating and air conditioning ductwork is a much more effective solution.

[@AvermillPublishing]

Super helpful video! Way more content than I was even looking for and right to the point!

[@Leankwizine]

Straight to the point. I feel like smashing the like button!!!👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍Thanks for the professional review.

[@MRSZ5440]

Well now I just brought the germguardian because I have a small room and the size was right. I came across this video on a search if you should keep the air purifier on 24/7 the first purifier he talked about was mine :-) very informative video.

[@brightwithspirit]

Should we keep them on 24/7? I do. Let me know, thanks!

[@Austden]

I disagree that the auto mode is not important. I bought the Conway one he recommends a few months ago and yeah the sensor might not be as good as a high end sensor but I have very much appreciated that when I turn on the dishwasher or pop popcorn it automatically kicks into high gear so the odor doesn't linger for nearly as long. Also I live in Salt Lake which often has the worst air quality in the United States in the winter and I've noticed on bad air days it does kick into a higher gear more frequently. Could it be better? Yes. But it's better than nothing.

[@clarasantiso8246]

Well that was easy! No more watching videos for making this purchase. What about viruses, bacteria, and pathogens? Or are those germs???? Great explanations!

[@consumer-analysis]

I don't have a video about it but I wrote about air purifiers for germs here: www.consumeranalysis.com/guides/air-purifiers/air-purifier-for-germs/

[@cynthiasalim2031]

I have two Coway Mighty and one Winix 5500-2. The Coway is better looking and smaller so I have them where they are easily seen. The Winix isn’t in easy view. I have noticed that the Winix appears to detect cooking orders much faster than the Coway in spite if being further from the kitchen. I am satisfied with both the Coway and Winix.

[@gkarkalis]

Coway is better with its crap carbon filter?Winix is using carbon pellets!

[@idparkinson]

Sleep mode is important if it also turns off all the lights on the machine, some can be very bright and keep people awake.

[@consumer-analysis]

If sleep mode allowed you to still manually control the machine while turning all lights off I would 100% agree with you. Unfortunately, most units don't implement sleep mode in this way.

[@KingMartian13]

I usually just put a sock on top of LED’s that don’t turn off. Then I take it off in the morning.

[@wctwctwctwct]

Again, no mention of the ozone being released by both of those models. Even in "low concentration" which builds up over time. Only the Honeywell seems to not have ionization or plasmawave or UV-C which cause ozone buildup.

[@consumer-analysis]

The ionizer (called "plasmawave" on the Winix) can easily be turned off and left off on both the Winix and Coway. When it's turned off, both units work just like Honeywell units - purifying the air solely via the unit's air filters. You are correct that I certainly could have addressed this in the video. I chose not to because I thought the discussion of ozone warranted a more in-depth analysis (vs the quick overviews and summaries I gave in the video). A full analysis on air purifier ionization can be found here: www.consumeranalysis.com/guides/air-purifiers/air-ionizers/

[@2eretz]

The best review on you tube I just subscribed

[@consumer-analysis]

Thank you and welcome!

[@functionalvanconversion4284]

Great info? What are your thoughts on the Airdog V5 car air purifier? Better than HEPA?

[@JohnFabsTV]

Thanks Consumer Analysis, I can now translate most of the manufacturer's technical specifications because I almost spent 4 days watching your videos repeatedly. :D For medical clinic purposes at 25sqm I am considering Intellipure @ $549.00, however it has a very low CFM than you've suggested is this still worth the money given that it uses a better filter than HEPA? - patented DFS technology 40x Ultrafine than HEPA - 4 Fan speeds: Low, Medium, High, Turbo - Power Consumption: 9 - 65 watts - CFM: 35 low- 150 turbo - Operation noise: 40-60 dB

[@consumer-analysis]

I'm generally not a fan of proprietary filters, even if they boast superior filtration to HEPA filters. My research and testing has shown that HEPA filters are very capable and more than sufficient for the vast majority of applications: www.consumeranalysis.com/guides/air-purifiers/hepa-air-purifier/ I also greatly value CFM - I think it's really important to process as much air as possible as quickly as possible - at a reasonable price, of course. For these reasons, I would not recommend the Intellipure unit you suggested.

[@JohnFabsTV]

@@consumer-analysis you never fail to amaze me, I was reading your comments like I was hearing your voice! thanks man! More power to your channel! :)

[@consumer-analysis]

@@JohnFabsTV Thank you very much and you're welcome!

[@davidmlong63]

idk, about accuracy of built-in air quality sensors, but we have one in the shop that has an auto mode, and we set it to auto mode all the time, when we mix concrete in front of the open overhead doors, the display starts going up and the fan kicks into high gear, until we stop mixing concrete, and the purifier is two rooms in with a hall and two closed doors in between it and the mixing operation. I would not buy a air purifier without a sensor, and a auto mode.

[@pasztet79]

Which would you choose against smog and smoke from fire place?

[@consumer-analysis]

I have a video on the best air purifier for smoke - which would also apply to smoke from a fireplace - which you can find here kzbin.info/www/bejne/a3-qf4CYqrdgfZY

[@cherylkroot1101]

With the fires here in California raging and my lungs aching I have had to make a hasty decision buying an air purifier. After limited research I settled on the Winix D480 as it was one of the few models that I could purchase and bring home immediately. It has a CADR of 310, but how does that translate into CFM, and is that adequate to clear the air in small rooms of less than 250sq ft. I hate to make decisions like this.........I would rather get the best value for my money, and I know this model is not it, but is it adequate to do the job? It is sitting in the packaging in my living room, waiting for me to decide. Thanks for your reviews..........I just found you today, and think they are clarifying and very useful.

[@consumer-analysis]

A CADR of 310 translates to roughly 310 to 330 CFM. The model you bought should be more than adequate for a 250 sq. ft. room.

[@cherylkroot1101]

@@consumer-analysis Thank you very much for your timely reply! Guess I'll unbox it, as it's still very smoky here.

[@SeamndelAlt]

Why is the Dylos DC1100 PRO considered a good particle sensor?

[@dietitiandaddy]

Ironically, I own both the one with UV light and the WINIX air purifier. After 4 years, I am loving both. The Winix is a beast compared to the GermGaurdian.

[@Phi1eap]

UV lights are too weak to sterilize air, but they stop of pathogen multiplication on filter itself, if the bulb is properly placed. There is possibility that if you turn more power to airflow, some particles and pathogens will end up again in air. Antimicrobial filters are usually thin layer covered with salt or metal ion, adding cotton filter layer sprayed with colliodal silver is one idea you can try to upgreade your purifier, don't spray anything on hepa to not damage its efficiency. Some filters have extra space you can add additional carbon, zeolite, cold catalyst, polymer like NanoCaptur. Xiaomi purifiers are silent and have a lot of space inside. Cheapest way is to buy cylindrical filter and put 12cm PC fan on it, without purifier. It's good addendum if you got larger costly to clean space. If you want to buy more expensive stuff, consider photocatalytic or electrolyzed water. Don't trust build in filter capacity counter, it's very broad aproximation. Carbon when saturated will give back fumes and poison you. If you live near chemical factory it's better to buy filters with the most carbon or put extra inside. Bacteria in earth decompose fumes. Soil bacteria on roots of plants are filtering far more than plants themeselves and properly prepared earth doesn't need plants to filter air. Antismog pots are breathable pots with many holes to pass through air, but secured with breathable mesh or cloth to not let earth get outside of pot, some contain fans.

[@yeeoaktown]

What is the best air purifier for indoor cigar smoke??

[@JacanaProductions]

My issue was units putting out ozone. The plasmas mode on the Winix. It does put out very small amounts and only certain uv spectrum light don’t put out ozone. Winix can’t be turned off easily. Your thoughts?

[@consumer-analysis]

The 5500-2 can only release ozone with its plasmawave feature (ionizer) turned on. And this feature can easily be turned off and left off. Though even with it turned on the unit is still completely safe to use: ww2.arb.ca.gov/our-work/programs/air-cleaners-ozone-products/california-certified-air-cleaning-devices

[@ash0787]

interesting, im looking into air purifiers for chemical sensitivity, im also a little concerned about vehicle emissions as the roads around here are busier nowadays than they used to be and im not far away from whats known as an A type road in the UK. I saw a few models that were interesting at different price points, the Levoit, the Winix and the AirDoctor all of these are rectangular upright shaped machines that appear to be similar on the surface, I saw reviews saying the levoit doesn't filter all that well though compared to others, its 1/4 of the price of the Air Doctor.

[@AirPurificationEducation]

If you are chemically sensitive then you need a lot of carbon for your solution to help take the VOCs out of the air. Plus, depending on how chemically sensitive you are - you may probably wish to stay away from plastic units. Most of the chemically sensitive people I've dealt with in the past had success with metal units - like Austin Air or Airpura. Not cheap but, again, it depends on how sensitive you are. 👍

[@VARocketry]

Can you include in your SHOW NOTES some names of Carbon Pellet Filters and sources to buy them?

[@karendeleon9347]

Thanks! Best review I've seen for air filters. All others just listed product specs - useless!

[@venox48]

What about ions call plasma cluster in SHARP air purifier ? Any good ?

[@babsbogaroshllc4073]

Appreciate your thorough analysis. One question: I saw a review of the Winix product by a consumer who seemed to feel that the unit released ozone & took issue with the manufacturer's claim that no ozone was released. Could you comment on this?

[@consumer-analysis]

The Winix 5500-2 can only release ozone with its plasmawave feature (ionizer) turned on. And this feature can easily be turned off and left off. Though even with it turned on the unit is still completely safe to use: ww2.arb.ca.gov/our-work/programs/air-cleaners-ozone-products/california-certified-air-cleaning-devices

[@lauratanln]

Very informative.

[@lucindaames1752]

I have read that you should look for a high CADR for smoke, dust and pollen. How does the Winix 5500-2 rate in this important area?

[@consumer-analysis]

CADR for the 5500-2 is 243 DUST / 246 POLLEN / 232 SMOKE

[@lucindaames1752]

@@consumer-analysis Would the Winix 5500-2 be good for removing pet dander?

[@consumer-analysis]

@@lucindaames1752 Yes, it will work well to remove pet dander.

[@lucindaames1752]

@@consumer-analysis The only thing stopping me from buying the Wine 5500-2 is the fact that I read in my research on air purifiers that you should get one with a CADR of at least 300 or 350. What do you think of that?

[@consumer-analysis]

@@lucindaames1752 My own research and testing contradicts that viewpoint. Models with a CADR in the same range as the Winix 5500-2 and Coway Mighty worked perfectly well in spaces up to 300 sq. ft. in my testing.

[@publiceye3292]

What about "medical grade HEPA" and HEPA 13 filters? Bad pollen allergies, looking for the best.

[@consumer-analysis]

H13 (along with H12, H11, etc.) is part of a European standard for testing air filters. Most units on the market have not been tested according to these standards. Instead, they are simply specified to have "True HEPA" filters. (True) HEPA is the US DOE standard. I do like certain air purifiers with H13 filters but not because of the H13 filters - it is usually because of a combination of (True) HEPA filtration, CFM, and value.

[@mylesnewberry2442]

I run a homeless shelter and we are trying to figure out an air purifier for our shelter, I am confused about the difference in units, the Winix has a CFM rate of 250, and a CADR rated for 360 square feet, I have 2000 square feet to cover, and I am also looking a more commercial type unit that has a CFM of 250 but a CADR of 1000. I guess I am having trouble figuring out which to go with how can they have the same CFM, but different CADR? from a cost standpoint would I need 6 of the smaller unit, verses 2 of the larger unit to cover the space?

[@consumer-analysis]

I think you'll find this guide helpful to clear up any confusion between CADR and CFM: www.consumeranalysis.com/guides/air-purifiers/cadr/ I recommend 250 CFM per 300 sq. ft. of required coverage.

[@alfonz84]

thanks

[@norberteros8158]

can you recommend anything for us in the EU region?

[@consumer-analysis]

I recommend either the Winix Zero (5300-2 equivalent) or Zero Pro (5500-2 equivalent). There are unfortunately no Coway or Austin Air equivalents available for sale in Europe.

[@norberteros8158]

@@consumer-analysis Thank you for answering to my post, i was looking at winix zero n, but could not found evidence that has CO2 with pellets, also, do you recommend Rohnson R-9500 Safe Air model?

[@consumer-analysis]

@@norberteros8158 Only the 5500-2 and Zero Pro have a carbon filter with pellets. I am not familiar with Rohnson air purifiers.

[@sherardsmith4629]

Do these specific things still take place now?

[@sillysgood]

I love this!!

[@D347h54rg3n7]

Criminally under-subbed

[@LordVodka313]

“The germs do not need to be killed, for them to be filtered out of the air” Me: but I want them dead.

[@nikisawyers7559]

same

[@K1RTB]

😂

[@ethimself5064]

I lightly spray my filters with a mild bleach solution

[@janvisagie231]

Exactly

[@1stopwellness4you46]

There is an Air Purification system that kills SARS-CoV-2. I can send you a link if you are interested. ([e-mail])

[@markyotter8964]

I learned more in this video than I did wasting 3 evenings comparing a couple dozen similar air purifiers at shopping websites. Thanks. Psychologists talk about choice paralysis. If you have to choose between 3 things, you can do it. But if you give someone 18 slightly different options (like choosing a 401K savings plan) our minds just shut down and cannot come to a confident conclusion. This video will allow me to finally actually order an air purifier instead of just mind numbing web comparisons.

[@benbrice9343]

I know the feeling your referring to man. I get that way some times. The main thing that gets me caught up is worrying I will regret buying one over the other. Also I am often skeptical that the quality is as good as advertised. I can buy tools confidently because I know the quality level of a lot of brands but when it comes to electronics I struggle because I can only see the outer casing ( it could have terrible solder joints and I wouldn't know )

[@Praveen_Babu_09]

Sharp airpurifier is best choice...call me for more details 9553555096

[@20023230]

I totally agree!! I just bought the winix from the video and saw this video afterwards. So freaking satisfying. Can't wait to receive it hahaha

[@olivialoveworthy]

@@20023230 I'm using it on Turbo in California and love it but have had to order something for the whole house due to the limitation of sq footage and the concentration of wildfire smoke at this time. Even the company I ordered the new system from told me to keep running the Winix for good airflow, and I'll definitely keep it in my bedroom on auto mode year round. It makes a huge difference even in this terrible situation and I can't tolerate being in a room without it - there's particulate coming into my home (even with everything closed) and it clears the room.

[@kariossyr6018]

Agree for sure, you precisely expressed what I was thinking. Much greeting for your really brilliant analysis and language, but I would like to know about this "401k saving plan" if you don't mind.

[@Grandpamoe]

How can I donate to your channel? Your reviews are straight forward and unique with no bullshit. You get straight to the point. I love them

[@mndrgs]

Immediately liked after knowing that I don't need UV lights in 5 seconds.

[@warrenlee8484]

With a 6-month old newborn, a dog who sheds, and a wife who has allergies, I've been buying and researching air purifiers for the past 18 months. I would have saved SO much time and headache if I had stumbled across your reviews earlier. Your reviews are terrific, well organized, and super practical. I especially appreciate your pointing out features that aren't worth paying extra for, something that most other reviews miss. Keep it up!

[@PDBenkert]

I have been using a Winix 5500-1 air purifier for the last several years. With my wife and my allergies, it has been a god sent. Make sure you change out the carbon filters regularly. Nice, very effective unit. Just ordered a second unit for the bedroom.

[@ericchen6704]

If you’ve never used an air filter these are great. kzbin.infoUgkx_dppjvjF8BYEmPSDTcgCUdRsgWYLXNHN I ended up with three after starting out with one. The noise level depends on the 1-3 settings with how hard you want the machine to work. You can also upgrade the filters and get one better for pet hair and smells which is a must have in my home. I noticed the air seemed lighter and easier to breathe when running the machine for the first time. Works great every time. Highly recommended!

[@MissJBradford]

So informative, THANK YOU! Amazon is overwhelming with choices and my kid needs some allergy relief, but I couldn't even begin to know how to make a choice. I feel more equiped to make an educated decision.

[@miroslawkaras7710]

Tthe one thing that I lern from that video...do not buy any comertial air purifier. Just buil one box fan and furnace 4-5 inch thick dust filter (rated MARV 13 if pasible) and some tape. It have much higher capacity it very low cost. The filter will last up to 6 month.

[@jhatch420]

So hard to find a high quality, detailed, unbiased review nowadays. Very informative and truly a genuineue experience even if you aren't looking for an air filter! Trust this man!

[@chefgav1]

Exactly. Vast majority shill with affiliate links or are sponsored

[@MrAdamChristopher]

how has this channel not blown the fk up yet

[@fundip43]

It’s a low subscription type channel. Most people look for fan and vacuum just a few times over several years. Tho they may keep the channel in mind most people don’t sub as they aren’t looking to hear the fan or filter they just bought is now second rate.Nor do they need one so they don’t bother sadly. everyone to focused on subbing to channels to make sure the don’t miss what their next video game personality is going do or say before school starts . It’s a heroic service for that reason; he can still get a good chunk of views though.

[@buzman1985]

Because Consumer Reports exists Don’t listen to this asshat who is paid by these companies.

[@leahnewyork]

@@goldeternal I was not aware -- how are you sure that that is the case? I ask earnestly. In any case, I have benefited from this video's info about what's important and what's not in air purifiers in general. Greatly appreciate that right out of the gate he says what's important and what's not. This vid has cut to the chase saving me time and eradicating confusion. I'd say that was worth it whether he is a rep of a particular company or not.

[@orangetangopink]

Love your videos! You're by far the best and most detailed reviewer I've found. Clear and to the point.

[@consumer-analysis]

Thank you for the positive feedback! It's much appreciated.

[@radith]

Agree. On point.👍

[@TheGringo1947]

@@consumer-analysis What about ozone production?? You do not mention this in your reviews. Is this not important?

[@rust-ezebumperointment4834]

@@TheGringo1947 yes, he did.

[@flare885]

Best review I have seen in years! I wish you could review every single product on the market. Amazing job!

[@consumer-analysis]

Thank you for the kind words!

[@ghanus2009]

He shoudl review cloning machines... right? then a hole bunch of him in them blue shirts with cassette tapes on them can be reviewing everything! I wonder hat his motive is to review so many air purifiers, vacuums, dehumidifiers etc... these are appliances no one wants to think about, yet he is an expert. Im quite impressed.

[@sableindian]

I'm getting ready to use this guide, step by step right now. Thank you. 🌹

[@TheAngiepangie424]

@@consumer-analysis Thank you, very thorough and helpful!

[@mddell58]

Ever gone to Modern Castle? I found it to be very useful, very detailed, & broken down. 👍🏻

[@blank_earth]

Please make a review of the Molekule air purifier. It looks like there is a lot of controversy. Wirecutter said it was the worst air purifier they’ve ever tested, but the Molekule company says they weren’t doing the right testing for it.

[@alyssadziminski7034]

*Absolutely love this thing. **Fastly.Cool** and air purifier perfectly this machine We set it up in the low air circulation basement where the dogs hang out (man cave too) and it made a HUGE difference in air quality.*

[@chevyboy9525]

Great professional knowledge and eloquent narration that makes sense in a clear and comprehensive manner. Great job sir. Thank you.

[@kayelle8005]

I have three different Winix air purifiers. I’m happy with all of them but my favourite is the four stage one. Really light and easy to move from room to room. Much better air quality. Very quiet. Great display. I also have the five stage one and the smaller room.

[@cdmichaelb]

I got an air purifier rated for a larger room, it increase surface area and marginally increases fan power. Essentially on medium a very tolerable noise level, I get the same performance as a smaller unit on a louder max fan speed.

[@doodles310]

I’m exceedingly grateful to you for this succinct and professional analysis that was just what I was looking for...almost bought a Dyson unit b/c of the brand being so popular and well designed, but I only needed the air purifier and so needed to understand everything that you have taught us here. Thank you very much...you’re the BEST!

[@tmeekins42]

I have cats and I love the auto mode with sensor (I have a Coway.) When the cat starts kicking up dust in the litter-box, it goes from silent fan to maximum fan almost instantly and the house stays dust free. So it has a purpose.

[@DucLe-tc8ps]

I have learned a lot on KZbin and rarely commented. But I am obliged to say this is the best video so far I've ever watched as a purchase guide in general and specifically for air purifiers. Much appreciated!

[@barryg9097]

Amazon shows the Winix 5500-2 as out of stock. However, I placed an order anyway and two days later received notice that my unit was shipping. Update: I received it 3 weeks after ordering. I notice the price keeps fluctuating between $160 and $250. I got it for the lower price. It was shipped directly from Winix to me.

[@Andrew-ut2wi]

Incredibly thorough. I would have spent hours researching this but I’m confident in your analysis (and it’s probably a hell of a lot better than mine would’ve been anyway!). Subbed.

[@consumer-analysis]

Thanks for the kind words!

[@bobh.426]

Excellent analysis, and seems very unbiased. Question about the PlasmaWave feature of Winnix 5500-2. It does produce ozone, which is unhealthy, but the manual says it can be disabled (turned off). But it also says, "By default, PlasmaWave® is enabled whenever the unit is powered on." Sounds like every time the unit is turned on you have to disable this feature, which is a bit bothersome.

[@claudinelefebvre5462]

Very informative! You are just telling it like it is, no fluff, very clear! This is so far the best video about air purifiers I have seen and this will definitely save me A LOT of time when deciding what I need/want to buy! Thank you, this is amazing!

[@Trying_very]

Best consumer review I have ever seen . Really thorough. Thank you!

[@tisurmaster]

Washable extra filters are great to keep the hepa efficient.

[@keeeefy]

Hello Great review. I wish I'd seen years ago when I spent £850 on an iQair I had to keep buying the replacement filters for £140 from the company that sold it to me. In the end I sold the machine for £250 A very expensive mistake 🥴

[@Karma0jun]

It is nice to hear an engineer's analysis of "The best of air purifiers" - such a misnomer - but I'm not here to argue titles. I find several areas that need deeper clarification and I think my experience with depth and screen filtration of biological materials (primarily blood, but gas filtration as well) has merit. So I will take issue with your view on UV-C component, some of your commenter views on the porosity of filter media and "the smallest particle" allowed through. Lastly, this is a fine video on so many levels with reasonably good information so don't think I'm panning the video effort - great job! Primarily - especially in this pandemic - UV-C cannot be ignored. The few 0.1 to 0.2 micron virions which make it through the filters need to have their nucleic acid coding disrupted before they are spewed out into the room. There is no question that the indoor air has many different compounds of differing size and charges which make an excellent furnace filter or a stand alone air filtration device useful. Now I haven't analyzed the quality of the true UV-C "Air-Purifiers" available on the market, but I hope it is adequate. I purchased one particular brand with built in LED UV-C in the range that should cause the virus' RNA to break down in the milliseconds it could be exposed - and I submit that to be what you really want. Yes we need less particulate in our lungs, but if you can't have a small industrial UV-C lamp installed in your homes' Air Handling equipment, having a small unit with UV-C capability will help disrupt any infective virus particulates brought into your home. That begs the question though - if the virus is in your home.....are you already screwed? I'll finish with a plan of action. Regarding the finite limits of filtration - even your HEPA filters are not the most efficient in the first few hours of use. There are two factors that improve efficiency - the pore sizes are averaged and some are bigger than others, not all brands are the same, etc. But after a few hours of air travelling through the filter media, some pores will begin to collect particulates with the opposite charge as the media. A net negative charge builds on the filter as air and water vapor weave through the fibers, most biological particulates are positively charged and the bacteria, viruses, even skin cells/dandruff floating in the air along with mites and other fomites will get caught in the HEPA filter. Just because a filter has been tested to passage of particulates 0.3 micron or larger (and the SARS-CoV-2 can be in the 0.1 to 0.3 range), you can't say the filter won't captures some of the particles of virus! A free floating virion that isn't in a water droplet will quickly fall apart - the lipid bilayer wall with it's positively charged spikes needs to stay hydrated. So most transmitted viruses are in aerosolized liquid particles greater than 0.3 microns and will absolutely get caught on the HEPA and slowly dry out rendering them non-infectious and safe to handle for disposal at the end of the filter's life. Filters for air flow - or any fluid flow - are just like river rapids. The fluid flowing through is disrupted by the fibers and pores in the way, but the negative pressure allows the physics of fluid dynamics to propel the particulates forward. But the inertia of the small particles plays into how the particles pass through the filter - as does the electrostatic charge (think walking on carpet in the dry winter and reaching for a door knob only to get shocked - that is the 'passive' or acquired electrostatic charge). So even if a particle is lined up to flow through a pore, it's pathway will not be like a rifled projectile. It will bounce and careen - and even smaller particles than 0.3 microns will end up stuck to the filter media. Sometimes on the negative pressure side! Microscopes and industry videos are great I promised I would give a tip for those who already have the virus in their workplace or home. Whether or not you have UV-C in your air handler, if you are not infected then isolate the infected carrier in the basement or their own room with an air filtration device (not purifier, I have yet to see "Purified Air". Or "Rarified Air" for that matter) that will filter the room's cubic foot or cubic meters of air volume 4 to 5 times an hour with UV-C exposure. Require them to wear a mask when outside of the room, and if possible let them have a quarantined bath room for their own use (it can be found for weeks in the feces). Also, wash hands and disinfect surfaces in common if they must use the same bathroom. Just to reiterate - damn good video

[@snoopydooper]

You say that a built-in sensor is not an important consideration and that most air purifiers use low-quality ones as well. And you imply that "air quality" sensors detect particles, which many air purifiers do (to a greater or lesser degree). But then your top pick is Winix air purifier which integrates a gas sensor, not a particle sensor. Gas sensors are much, much cheaper than any particle sensors. Also, levels of gasses are constantly rising and falling for many reasons (mostly harmless). This means that the Winix running on Auto mode is going to be wasting quite a lot of electricity comparted to an air purifier with a real particle sensor.

[@mikemaschine22]

this video was in recommended i dont even watch videos about air purifiers but i enjoyed it

[@nonitj]

Best review of all I've seen. Thank you!!

[@JORO9000]

Hi, thank you for this analysis! So which air purifier would be good at killing bacteria, viruses and mould?

[@consumer-analysis]

Top rated units (e.g. the Winix 5500-2 and Coway Mighty) can filter many airborne bacteria and viruses with their HEPA filters. I wrote a complete in-depth analysis on germ (including virus) filtration here: www.consumeranalysis.com/guides/air-purifiers/air-purifier-for-germs/ Top rated units can also filter mold spores. I made a video on mold filtration: kzbin.info/www/bejne/d6uwYoikjr2llbs

[@shiba18inu]

What a great breakdown of all the criteria to look out for! Thank you!

[@geneallen9497]

Isn't the point of the UV light to kill and mitigate bacteria ON the filter? not to clean the air using UV! ultimately UV applied on a surface reduces bacteria, are you saying it does not do that?

[@AnonYmous-iw6rh]

Thank you for this detailed, easy to understand breakdown. You kick-ass!! Keep up the great work 👍👍👍

[@consumer-analysis]

Thank you very much for the kind words!

[@SahitDagani]

Hi please test and review Mi Air Purifier (2S, 3, 3H or any model) they also come with Antibacterial filter please test that one aswell. Need your advice here. Thanks

[@ghanus2009]

In his reviews, he says antibacterial filters are not necessary, added expence with little result.

[@chefgav1]

@@ghanus2009 These are not available in the U.S. I have the 3H, pro and proH. What is it you need to know

[@jamesbennett6343]

Any thoughts about the ozone concern with the Winix, isn’t that something to be aware of?

[@consumer-analysis]

The Winix 5500-2 can only release ozone with its plasmawave feature (ionizer) turned on. And this feature can easily be turned off and left off. Though even with it turned on the unit is still completely safe to use: ww2.arb.ca.gov/our-work/programs/air-cleaners-ozone-products/california-certified-air-cleaning-devices

[@user_tc3wr2el5b]

I hope you can analyze Medify MA-112. I heard it’s good.

[@njitram2000]

Is there anyone else that can smell the carbon filters themselves? The best i can do to describe it is a really chemical version of vanilla and if the purifier runs for a few minutes, the whole rooms smells of it. I have a very strong sense of smell and I haven't been able to find any shop that recognises my description but now I have a more expensive Philips filter and if I directly smell the carbon filter, I instantly recognise the smell so it's definitely the carbon. I'm filtering to remove odors from the air and any carbon filter seems to just replace it with its own migraine inducing smell instead.

[@sebastiansalazarastete2339]

I hope someone answers you before I buy mine cause I have a strong sense of smell too.

[@happygface7375]

It's very noticeable! Acetaldehydes are weakly held by carbon and can outgass in both pelletized and coated fibers. It can be fruity, nutty or 'something' else. I had fruit smells from Honeywell round canister floor models with carbon fiber wraps. The odor dispersed with a little distance - 6 feet or so, and it was bothersome, didn't like it at all! Honeywell replaced the carbon wraps and the inner (expensive) canister filters at their cost, the replacements did not produce any odors. The stinky filters were purchased from a retail home store, packed in slick white printed Honeywell boxes, the filters were inside sealed plastic bags, but the Honeywell shipped replacments were in plain brown boxes, those were inside vacuum sealed foil. Carbon should never produce a smell, it should trap particles that do.

[@njitram2000]

@@happygface7375 I recently tried both a Philips series 2000 (with pellets) purifier and a Winix Zero pro (with fibre). The Winis was less extreme but both produce that smell from the carbon. I can't really go buying filters untilI come across one that doesn't produce the smell! I tried googling Acetaldehydes but could not find anything related to activated carbon producing it. Do you have more data on that?

[@happygface7375]

​@@njitram2000 First good news, the fix is simply finding what's contaminating the filter. If it's french-fry smoke, remove the filter from that area, stop frying potatoes, or stop using a carbon filter. The easiest things to mitigate probably originate from cooking fumes or cleaning products. Normal stuff, things most of us have. Or it could be something unique in the air there, that most of us don't have. I drop a cover over mine when I make french fries or fry chicken - just in case... but I don't cook often, and I don't paint or have fumes from cleaning or sprayed products in my house. Second option: Call the company, tell them you have $2000 in stinking filters and you want them replaced! No company wants to refund or replace $2000 worth of consumables, that will get them moving! They know within 90% what's likely to be going on. More depth: Carbon has much surface area, it may host other products to form acetaldehyde with something else. Sounds complicated but it's really not. Activated carbon is inert, it simply 'holds' other things - or lets other molecules hold onto it. When a molecule becomes attached to carbon it may react with yet another friendly molecule to produce acetaldehyde. That was my example with the plastic packaging, it possibly 'gassed' out and got converted...but, there are many pathways to produce acetaldehyde! From man-made goods, to plants, minerals and animal products. We know what it is, our bodies produce it and its associated with hangovers from drinking. Copypasta: Acetaldehyde "is found in plants, ripe fruits, vegetables, cigarette smoke, gasoline and diesel exhaust (and much more). It is used in the manufacture of acetic acid, perfumes, dyes and drugs, as a flavoring agent and as an intermediate in the metabolism of alcohol." The first thing of note is - "it's everywhere", it causes damage to our cells and our genes. The number of enzymes involved in the metabolism of acetaldehyde is a testament to its reactivity, acetaldehyde is highly reactive.

[@njitram2000]

@@happygface7375 I have mine in my office room where there has not been anything producing smells yet (except body odors) and these filters smell like that from the first moment they are used. That would mean it's the plastic and air they are packaged in but they are packaged in plastic to prevent them from absorbing anything while they sit on the shelf for someone to buy them.

[@andreas956]

The reasons to why I subscribed is because your clearly unbiased and knowledgeable.

[@exile55]

The UV light is not for killing most germs but to kill any virus that it can't capture. Most viruses can pass right through most filters so UV light is the next best option. In most cases, it isn't necessary still because of the chance of having a airborne virus in a confined space usually only happens if someone is sick spreading it around a room. In that case, you would want a UVC light hit the whole room and not the filter.

[@Billybritt-s4t]

Booster ready for you 😅😂😅😂

[@Billybritt-s4t]

And virus goes right through your face diaper 😂😅😂😅

[@Billybritt-s4t]

Mainstream has you terrified 😅😂😅 getting sick used to be part of life 😅😂😅

[@dat1boi056]

I want to say be more charismatic, but I feel like that would take away from all of these facts. Thumbs up for the most informative video's I've seen on the subject

[@MrBenkyoushimashou]

Are there comparisons of the different purifiers' filters' cost-to-replace-over-time? That is, over say X number of years, how much one purifier would expect to cost to replace its filters? I wonder partially because I see this as a metric to measure another property that I don't see mentioned, which a rating as to how efficiently the purifier uses its filter. You can imagine that if you have a large filter, if the design of the purifier is such that the fan does not evenly draw air into the entire surface area of the filter, then the filter is used more heavily in a localized area, and over time that area will accumulate more particles and thus lead to the whole filter needing to be replaced earlier than if the purifier was designed to utilize the entire surface area of the filter effectively. Is that a measurement that is done, or is there any data on how effectively purifiers utilize the surface area of their filters?

[@consumer-analysis]

My analysis of filter replacement costs can be found near the end of this guide: www.consumeranalysis.com/guides/air-purifiers/affordable-air-purifier/ It doesn't contain detailed model vs model comparisons but I think you'll find my more general analysis helpful nonetheless.

[@consumer-analysis]

​@@matfalkner I don't receive and have never received any compensation from Winix. It would be a federal crime for me to do so and not disclose it. I may earn commissions from retailers but I've never received commissions from any manufacturer, including Winix.

[@chasecampan-thornburg1721]

I wish this guy reviewed everything, and that's not hyperbole. I ended up watching about 8 videos this morning. Liked. Subscribed. Thank you!

[@alexanderdora98]

Find Sleep modus nice since it kills most of the LED

[@matthewgiroux9686]

The most impressive thing about this video is his ability to say "antimicrobial filter" that many times without even the hint of a slip-up or stutter.

[@michaelmelling9333]

I just got a Bissell Air 400 a few days ago due to all of the awful smoke from the wildfires and it's been huge benefit!

[@wy4553]

Wow, this video is FANTASTIC!! Thank you for helping me save my time and money. I'm completely new to air purifiers and now I actually know how to choose the right one for me. Thank you!

[@jlh5995]

Hey Consumer Analysis - thank you for taking the time and effort to explain the nuances of what important factors need consideration when purchasing a air purifier.

[@mbthurber]

I have the Winnex 5500-2. I figured out it was one of the best. This guy just confirmed I made a great choice. He didn't mention that is has a remote control.

[@LostinBlue88]

Great video, I would love a review of the AEG AX91-604GY.

[@robinenbernhard]

I got that one now to. I realy like it You can find under name of electrolux pa9 604

[@jimemanuelcaruthers8748]

He recommends Winix and specifically the Winix 5500-2, even as superior Winix purifiers have come out, because he gets a percentage of the sale every time he directs someone to Amazon to buy one. Same thing for the Coway Mighty (which judging by how many people are selling their use Coways on Ebay, I’d be weary of).

[@tomd4748]

Name the superior Winix….

[@StrongmanLovesAnimals]

Helped me so much, thank you!

[@tisurmaster]

this guy... these things don't suck. They barely move any air through the filter. It's just a fan. You are better off making your own. Search for DIY purifier ... that is simple and more effective and cheap. For those that are a little handy, use the inline fan air purifier.

[@barryg9097]

for DIY, kzbin.info/www/bejne/b6etnGh4gp2ri9E

[@20023230]

This is the best educative video I have seen on KZbin for years. Great!!

[@Nagaziel]

I was just looking into buying an air purifier because of a little mold problem we have in our place. (To filter the spores) Thanks so much for this video, this is an extremely well explained buying guide. It really helps a lot. I suscribe! I had a question though: I did not find any reviews from you for the XiaoMi Air Purifier models. (H2, H3, PRO) I would love to see you review them. :)

[@Pattythomas5]

Excellent review. Thank you so much!

[@indigoNine]

Thanks for the video, look forward to review of Xiaomi air purifiers if you could possibly check them out!

[@kevinszopa4931]

Absolutely great video, learned alot and feel good about my decision on buying an air filter👍🏻, professional too will be subscribing. Don't know what the 💻 was for he didnt look at it or use it lol

[@ghanus2009]

It makes him look hella smart. He never blinks either.

[@GoldenHat333]

he cut the parts where he looks at the computer 12:40

[@TROOPERfarcry]

Good Lord, the video opened with frank and relevant knowledge. I'm so unaccustomed to it that I had to re-watch the first half minute.

[@MuayThaiTherapy]

This man is the gold standard of air purifier reviews that I have found.