Shopping for an affordable HEPA air purifier?
You’ve come to the right place.
High-efficiency HEPA air purifiers are known for removing even the smallest particles from your home’s air, ensuring it is safe for you and your loved ones.
But the cost of HEPA air filters ranges widely, from \$100 to well into the \$1,000s.
In this guide, we’ll help you get the health benefits of a HEPA air purifier – without breaking your budget.
Our Top 3 Picks
- Covers up to 700 sq. ft
- Low noise level of 22 dB
- Works effectively for smoke and dust
- H13 HEPA filter
- Portable, lightweight at 4.4 lbs
- 99.9% impurity removal
What's in This Buying Guide
Table of Contents
With so many HEPA air purifiers on the market, it is hard to find one that meets your needs to a tee.
We’ve done some of the homework for you with this guide. In it, we recommend, review, and compare the best inexpensive HEPA air purifiers for a single room sold today. From a list of dozens, we shortlisted the 4 models below, providing one model for each of 4 common situations.
After our list of top picks, we review each model briefly and provide a buying guide that discusses the features and factors you should consider before making a purchase.
Let’s start by taking a look at our 4 favorites right now:
Best Low-Cost HEPA Air Purifiers
- 1. Best for Noiseless Operation: Hosome Smart Air Purifier
- 2. Best for Pet Owners: LEVOIT Air Purifier
- 3. Best for Bedroom: Medify MA-14-W1
- 4. Best for Removing Odor: Winix 5500-2
Hosome Smart Air Purifier
Best for Noiseless Operation
Area Coverage
700 sq. ftColor
WhiteWeight
9.92 poundsFan Speeds
3Noise Level
22 dB
LEVOIT Air Purifier
Best for Pet Owners
Area Coverage
403 sq. ftColor
WhiteWeight
8.82 poundsFan Speeds
1Noise Level
24 dB
Medify MA-14-W1
Best for Bedroom
Area Coverage
200 sq. ftColor
WhiteWeight
4.4 poundsFan Speeds
3Noise Level
–
Winix 5500-2
Best for Removing Odor
Area Coverage
360 sq. ftColor
BlackWeight
15.4 poundsFan Speeds
–Noise Level
27.8 dB
If you want a quiet and refreshing air purifier for your home, then Hosome Smart Air Purifier is your best bid. Its wide area coverage and smart control via Alexa make it best for large rooms.
PROS
- Sleek and modern white build
- Voice control via Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa
- CADR rating of 340m³/h
- Color indicators for air quality
- Sleep mode with the display light turned off
- Child safety lock
CONS
- Top display needs care.
Features
- Covers up to 700 sq. ft
- Low noise level of 22 dB only
- Works effectively for smoke and dust
- Works with Alexa via smartphones
- 4-stage filtration system for optimal air purification
- Color indicator for air quality assures users of pure air
Our Review
The Hosome smart air purifier is best for large rooms since it can easily cover an area of up to 700 sq. ft. You can use it for offices and meeting rooms as well since it covers a large space.
It ensures an undisturbed sleep with its ultra-quiet operation even at high fan speed. This makes it perfect for bedrooms as well as living areas where you want minimum distraction or noise.
The smart display at the top helps configure and keep track of settings easily. Meanwhile, the four-color indicators let you know the quality of air, with green being excellent and red being poor.
Moreover, the CADR rating of 340m³/h ensures a circulation of air five times within an hour in a room. This, combined with a 45W powerful motor; ensures a thorough purification of air.
Lastly, voice controls via Alexa and Google Assistant make it easier to use, while the sleek construction increases its aesthetic appeal and portability.
The LEVOIT Air Purifier is the best option for people who live in pollen-laden areas. With its 8.82-pound weight and compact construction, you can make the most out of it in any part of your house.
PROS
- CA PROP 65 certification makes it trustworthy
- Timer for 2, 4, 6, and 8-hours
- Undisturbed sleep with the display light off
- Simple design blends with home décor
- No secondary pollution or ozone depletion
CONS
- Initial configuration takes time
Features
- Has H13 HEPA filter for optimal air processing
- Needs no batteries as it is powered by an electric cord
- Brings in fresh air within 12 minutes of operation
- Removes 99.97% of airborne particles with a carbon filter
- Offers noiseless operation with QuietKEAP technology
- Core 300 design is built to impress
- Uses UV-free light to ensure user safety
- Energy-efficient with Energy Star certification
Our Review
The Levoit air purifier is designed to provide healthy and quality air to people living in humid and pollen-rich areas.
With its multiple filter options, it can help deal with bacteria; dust, mold, mildew, and pollen grains effectively. No more risking nose blockage or embarrassing layers of dust on furniture even after dusting.
Furthermore, the activated carbon filter removes 99.99% of airborne particles. This ensures an ideal room environment for those allergic to dust and similar pollutants.
Plus, since there is a pet allergy filter in it; you can have pet dander removed easily.
Moreover, the QuietKEAP technology ensures that users enjoy an undisturbed sleep with only 24dB of noise. The display lights also turn off at night when you want to sleep.
We also like that the unit has no ionized or UV light that can harm the ozone layer or the environment in any way. This makes it great for those who care about the environment in the long run, too.
Furthermore, the filter lifetime indicator gives you a heads-up in case of replacement or cleaning. So, there is no disruption in the purified air supply at any time.
A timer with two hourly spacing helps in keeping the air clean even when you are away from home.
PROS
- Sleep light helps with seeing things at night
- Compact design with dimensions of 12 x 8 x 8 inches
- Removes dust and virus carriers too
- HEPA H13 filtration system
- Comes with manufacturer’s lifetime warranty
- Medical-grade air quality ensured
CONS
- Filters need extra care
Features
- Highly portable and lightweight at 4.4 pounds
- H13 filters have a higher rating than True HEPA
- Ensures clean air with 99.9% impurity removal
- 120 CADR increases its efficiency and effectiveness
- Sleep mode helps in minimizing noise and light at night
- Three fan speed helpscontrol the air purification rate
- Has filter replacement indicators to give prior notice
- Complete removal of harmful particles with 360-degree HEPA
Our Review
This model has H13 filters that are even more powerful than True HEPA filters. So, there is no compromise on air quality even at such low prices.
The fine mesh and active filters help purify the air up to 99.9%. This way, there are no airborne pollutants left behind that can cause problems with breathing.
Medical-grade air purification ensures there is a lesser need for nebulization for people with respiratory issues. This helps in improving health while keeping medical costs to a minimum.
To add to this, it features a sleep mode that effectively minimizes distractions while you are trying to sleep. The display light turns off and the noise level is also almost negligible.
The small size and lightweight frame at only 4.4 pounds make it great for dorms and offices as well.
Since it has a clean air delivery rate (CADR) of 120, there is thorough air purification within no time. And, it is even more efficient for small rooms up to 200 sq. ft.
Moreover, with three fan speeds, users get to decide how quickly they want to purify the air. This also helps in controlling the noise level, which is already quite low, to begin with.
Its safety of design and operation makes it adequate for baby nurseries and houses with toddlers.
Moreover, there is a lifetime warranty on parts and service, making it a highly reliable purchase.
People on a budget looking for an excellent air purifier for medium-sized rooms will love Winix 5500-2. It has amazing technology and impressive filters that do not need frequent replacements.
PROS
- Effective for pollen and other small particles
- Activated carbon granules for safe air supply
- Complete removal of pet dander and dust mites
- Auto mode for required fan speed
- Stylish black build suits modern interiors
- Has a washable fine mesh pre-filter
- Two-year limited warranty
CONS
- Requires protection for ozone
Features
- Has a true HEPA filter for complete air purification
- Washable AOC carbon filter helps reduce odor
- PlasmaWave acts as a constant guard against chemical pollutants and allergens
- Smart sensors gauge air quality to change settings accordingly
- The CADR rating is ideal for 360 square feet rooms
- Amazing operation in overly humid kitchens
- Has minimal noise production of 27.8 dB
- Highly effective four-stage filtration system
- LED light color indicator for air quality assessment
- Has a simple and convenient remote control
Our Review
The Winix 5500-2 is a highly competitive HEPA air purifier with true HEPA filters.
These filters remove particles as small as 0.3 microns which is truly impressive.
Since it has activated carbon granules in the filter, there are hardly any unpleasant odors in the room. The AOC carbon filter is washable, so it does not need replacement on clogging up.
Moreover, the CADR rating makes it great for medium-sized rooms like living areas and moist kitchens.
Furthermore, smart sensors in the air purifier assess the level of impurities in the air. The auto mode sets the fan speed accordingly to ensure the best air quality without causing discomfort.
The LED light color indicator has three variations for good, fair, and poor air quality. This lets you know of the air quality inside so that you can take the required measures.
Moreover, the noise levels are amazingly low at 27.8 dB only, so there are hardly any distractions.
Its pre-filter is also washable so it helps in further cutting down maintenance costs.
Affordable HEPA Air Purifiers: Buying Guide
Here are the factors and features you should consider when selecting an inexpensive HEPA air purifier for your home or office:
Efficiency
The first thing you have to be mindful of is the efficiency of a HEPA air purifier. An air purifier that processes the greatest amount of air in the shortest time is the most efficient. You can get an idea of this efficiency from the product description.
In addition, the filter should be able to absorb even the tiniest particles that can be hazardous to your health. So, you need to look for a purifier that filters bacteria, mold, mildew, and dust particles.
Ease of Maintenance
The next important thing you have to be careful about is the ease of maintenance. Some air purifiers require very frequent drainage and filter replacement. This can be both expensive and time-taking.
An air purifier should minimize your worries instead of increasing them. So, you must choose a HEPA air purifier that is easy to maintain and care for.
Portability
Another important consideration is the portability of HEPA purifiers. Most HEPA air purifiers work impressively and cover an entire room. But sometimes, you need to take the purifier to other parts of your house.
For this, the air purifier should be lightweight so that it demands less effort to move around.
How Does a HEPA Air Purifier Work?
A HEPA air purifier works on three levels of purification, targeting specific particle sizes.
First off, the large particles that have a thickness of one micron or more are trapped in the mesh of HEPA filters. To provide you a better perspective, human hair has a thickness of 50 microns.
Now, imagine the size of a particle with 50 times less thickness than a single human hair.
Medium-sized particles that have a width between 0.3 and one micron. The HEPA filter mesh traps them as well.
Small-sized particles measuring less than 0.3 micron keep rotating in the mesh fibers due to the zig-zag motion. This way, HEPA air purifiers remove even the tiniest pollutants from the air, making sure you breathe safe and clean air.
Who Should Buy an Affordable HEPA Air Purifier?
HEPA air purifiers are all the rage but they can be expensive. With the increase in the quality and number of features; their price increases as well.
However, not everyone’s budget allows for such expensive purchases. Thus, it is better to go for air purifiers that offer high-quality air purification at low prices.
An affordable HEPA air purifier is best for those who have high humidity levels in their house. Increased humidity leads to mold and mildew growth which can harm your health. So, to stay healthy and active, it is better to go for an affordable air purifier.
What to Look for in an Affordable HEPA Air Purifier?
While looking for a HEPA air purifier, you are bound to come across several models. But, how do you determine the best one for your home?
It’s simple: Just look out for the following:
Area Coverage
Area coverage is one of the most important factors when it comes to HEPA air purifiers. You need a purifier that covers your room nicely. If you have a large room, then you need to buy an air purifier that can effectively reach all areas.
However, a smaller air purifier works fine for small rooms or rooms with low humidity levels.
Effectiveness
The air purifier has to be able to do what you invest in it for in the first place. If it fails to remove dust and other pollutants from the air, then what is the point of having one? So, effectiveness is a major concern when comparing available options.
Build and Durability
The build and durability of an affordable HEPA air purifier are also vital. The construction should not contradict the interiors of your room since aesthetics and clean air are both important.
The air purifier should be durable so that you do not have to invest in a new purifier every few years.
Filter Life
Filter life is also crucial when buying a HEPA air purifier. Filters actively stop pollutants from passing through them, so there is naturally some wear and tear.
However, the filters should be able to serve you for at least three to four years. Also, you should choose washable filters that you can re-insert in the purifier.
Running Costs
While comparing air purifiers, you need to consider the running cost as well. Sometimes, the running cost can be more expensive than the product itself.
You should buy a HEPA air purifier that does not need frequent filter changes. Similarly, it should have affordable power expenditure to avoid putting a strain on your electricity bills.
Limitations
HEPA air purifiers offer a range of benefits. But, like all good things, there are a few downsides to them as well such as:
- Most HEPA air purifiers do not filter out gas fumes and odors, so there can still be some unpleasant smells around.
- These air purifiers use expensive filters. Although the filters do not need frequent replacement, they do cost a lot.
- HEPA filters are effective in removing bacteria, but they let most viruses pass, which can be harmful.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Correct maintenance is the key to having a smoothly working HEPA air purifier that lasts for years. Keeping this in view, here are the necessary steps to clean this type of air purifier.
- First, unplug the air purifier and move it away from any rugs or carpets.
- Now, soak the dust and debris collecting plates in a mild detergent for about 10- minutes.
- Then, clean the soaked plates using a brush with soft bristles and insert them in place after drying.
- Meanwhile, replace the filter if you have removable filters.
- Lastly, connect the air purifier back to the power supply, and you are good to go.
Frequently Asked Questions
We have already walked you through the buying guide and description of the best affordable HEPA air purifiers. These air purifiers are becoming a common household appliance, so people are inquisitive about them. This is why we have answered the most frequently asked questions to clear any confusion.
For how long can I use the HEPA Air Purifier?
Ideally, you should keep the HEPA air purifier running throughout the day to ensure a consistent supply of clean air. But if you are concerned about electricity bills, then running it for 12 to 14-hours should be enough.
Do HEPA Air Purifiers limit growth of mold?
HEPA air purifiers help reduce mold growth because they are designed to absorb all impurities from the air. They have proved to be quite effective in mold spore removal. So, you should place a HEPA air purifier in a room with high humidity levels to prevent mold growth.
Is it safe to run the HEPA air purifier when the windows are open?
Yes, you can run the HEPA air purifier with windows open, but it decreases the air purification capability. Since the rate of inflow of dust and pollutants is higher with the windows open; the air will not be completely pure. So, it is advisable to keep the windows shut while the air purifier is on.
Final Verdict: What is the Best Affordable HEPA Air Purifier Sold Today?
After dozens of hours of careful analysis, we believe the LEVOIT Air Purifier is the best affordable HEPA air purifier for most budget-minded consumers. With its noiseless operation, reputation for reliability and its safety certifications, it is hard to beat at this price. It’s also one of the best-built models we’ve reviewed.
I’m a degreed ME (mechanical engineer) who is passionate about machines of all kinds. I created MachineWonders.com as a way to connect with others who love machines like me – or need help choosing one for their needs, application, or situation.
