Air Purifier Comparison Chart

Filter types compared: what they catch, what they miss, and what to buy

How to Use This

How to Use This: First, identify your main concern (allergies, mold, chemicals, general air quality). Then compare filter types in the table to find what removes your target contaminants. Check the buying checklist before purchasing.

Key Terms

Key terms: HEPA = High Efficiency Particulate Air filter. VOCs = Volatile Organic Compounds (gases from paint, furniture, cleaners). CADR = Clean Air Delivery Rate (how fast a purifier cleans air, measured in cubic feet per minute). CARB = California Air Resources Board (certifies low ozone emissions).

Filter Type	Removes	Doesn't Remove	Best For	Watch Out For
True HEPA (H13)	99.97% of particles ≥0.3µm: dust, pollen, mold spores, pet dander	VOCs, gases, odors, viruses smaller than 0.3µm	Allergies, asthma, general air quality	Must replace filters every 6-12 months; genuine HEPA only
HEPA-type / HEPA-like	~85-95% of particles (lower efficiency)	Smaller particles, gases, VOCs	Budget option for light dust	Marketing term — not true HEPA. Avoid for serious concerns.
Activated Carbon	VOCs, gases, odors, formaldehyde, smoke	Particles, dust, mold spores, allergens	Chemical sensitivities, off-gassing, smoke	Carbon saturates and needs regular replacement; weight indicates capacity
UV-C	Some bacteria and viruses with sufficient exposure time	Particles, allergens, mold, chemicals	Add-on germicidal layer (not standalone)	Can produce ozone; effectiveness depends on exposure time. Low value alone.
Ionizer	Some airborne particles (charges them to stick to surfaces)	Gases, VOCs; doesn't truly remove particles from air	Very little — mostly marketing	Produces ozone, a lung irritant. Avoid for children's rooms.
PCO (Photocatalytic Oxidation)	Some VOCs and gases broken into CO2 and H2O	Particles, allergens, most biological contaminants	Specific VOC concerns in new construction	Newer technology with limited independent testing; can create harmful byproducts

What to Look For When Buying

True HEPA (H13 or H14) — not "HEPA-type" or "HEPA-like"

Activated carbon filter included (ideally 2+ lbs of carbon)

CADR rating appropriate for room size (2/3 of room sq ft minimum)

No ozone emissions — check for CARB certification

Sealed system (air can't bypass the filter)

Noise level < 50 dB on medium for bedroom use

Replacement filter cost and availability (check before buying)

Sizing Guide

How to choose: Measure your room (length × width = square feet). Your purifier's CADR rating should be at least 2/3 of that number. Example: 15ft × 12ft = 180 sq ft → look for CADR 120+.

Budget Guide

Budget options ($50-150): Levoit, Winix. Mid-range ($150-400): Coway, Blueair. Premium ($400+): IQAir, Austin Air.

Next Steps

Next Steps: After choosing a purifier, use the Mold Inspection DIY Guide to check for mold sources in your home — a purifier can't fix an active mold problem. Also review the Indoor Plant Air Purification Guide for a natural complement.

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