Best Air Purifiers Under $100 – Garage Tested Guide

Struggling with indoor air that leaves you sneezing and tired? Poor air quality can significantly impact your health and comfort. Discover the best air purifiers under $100 that not only filter harmful particles but also transform your living space into a healthier haven.

Why Indoor Air Quality Matters

According to a recent case study by Consumer Reports, efficient use of HEPA filters in budget air purifiers can reduce indoor pollutants by up to 20%.

Since 2020, there has been an explosion of interest in devices that can clean airborne particles from the air. Reputable organizations such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Indoor Ventilation Guidelines and the World Health Organization have stated that portable air purifiers can improve indoor ventilation and remove harmful airborne particles. When choosing an air purifier, it’s important to consider factors like room size, filtration technology, Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR), and noise levels to find the best option for your needs and budget.

Top Budget Air Purifiers Under $100: Key Features & Benefits

When selecting a budget-friendly air purifier, understanding the essential features and specifications will help you make an informed decision. This guide explains the key factors to consider during your purchase.

Essential Filtration Technology

The most crucial aspect of any air purifier is its filtration system. Quality air purifiers should incorporate both HEPA filtration and activated carbon technology. HEPA filters effectively capture microscopic particles including dust, pollen, pet dander, and mold spores, trapping contaminants as small as 0.3 microns. Activated carbon filtration specifically targets odors and volatile organic compounds through its porous structure. When choosing an activated carbon filter, look for models using carbon pellets rather than impregnated fabric, as pellets provide superior performance.

Understanding Room Size and CADR Ratings

Your room dimensions directly influence which air purifier will work best for your space. Air purifiers come with specific room size recommendations and Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) ratings. For spaces between 300 and 500 square feet, select an air purifier with a minimum CADR of 150. Rooms between 500 and 900 square feet require either one powerful unit or two smaller units with a combined CADR between 300 and 500. Larger spaces over 1000 square feet need either one high-capacity unit or multiple units totaling a CADR of 600 or higher.

Smart Features Versus Value

While smart features like automatic mode adjustment and mobile app connectivity can enhance convenience, they often increase the price significantly. Performance should take priority over additional features when working with a limited budget. Many basic models offer identical cleaning capabilities to their smart counterparts at a lower cost. For example, the standard Levoit 300 provides the same air purification effectiveness as the Levoit Core 300S while costing fifty dollars less.

Price Considerations and Quality

Exercise caution with extremely low-priced air purifiers. Based on extensive testing, quality air purifiers typically start at around eighty dollars, with reliable models like the TaoTronics AP003 or the Levoit Core 300 costing between eighty and ninety-nine dollars. These units provide effective air purification for standard room sizes. Air purifiers priced below fifty dollars often fail to deliver satisfactory performance despite their prevalence in online marketplaces.

How to Choose the Best Air Purifiers Under $100: Buying Tips & FAQs

Picking an air purifier on a budget isn’t just about the price tag. You need to think about room size, filter types, and how well it cleans the air. These factors can make or break your choice, even when you’re looking to save money.

Room size compatibility

Room size matters when picking an air purifier. A small unit won’t clean a big space well. A large one in a tiny room wastes energy. Match the purifier to your room for the best results.

Look at the square footage the device covers.

Most air purifiers work for rooms from 50 to 1,095 square feet. Airtok models clean spaces up to 100 square feet. Check the product details to find the right fit. This info helps you buy a purifier that works for your space without overspending.

Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR)

Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) tells you how well an air purifier works. It shows how fast the device can clean the air in a room. A higher CADR means the purifier cleans air faster.

This number helps you pick the right air cleaner for your space.

CADR measures three main pollutants: dust, smoke, and pollen. For example, the Levoit Core 300-P has a CADR of 141 CFM (cubic feet per minute). This means it can clean a medium-sized room quickly.

The Medify MA-14, with a lower CADR of 25-71 CFM, suits smaller spaces better. Always check the CADR when shopping for an air purifier to get the best fit for your needs.

Type of filters used

Air purifiers use different types of filters to clean the air. HEPA filters are the gold standard. They catch tiny particles like dust, pollen, and pet dander. These filters trap 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns.

Another common filter is activated carbon. It’s great for removing odors and harmful gases. Some purifiers use both HEPA and carbon filters for better air cleaning. Pre-filters are also useful.

They catch larger particles and help the main filter last longer. Now, let’s look at some top budget-friendly air purifiers for different room sizes. Also, check out the best air purifiers for all applications.

Comparative Analysis: Best Air Purifiers Under $100 vs. Premium Models

Bestselling Air Purifiers on Amazon for Under $100

Best Budget Air Purifier for Small Rooms: GoveeLife Mini Air Purifier

The GoveeLife Mini Air Purifier packs a punch in a tiny package. It’s perfect for small spaces like dorm rooms or office cubicles, where every inch counts. With its compact size and efficient filtration, this budget-friendly option offers an excellent solution for improving air quality in areas up to 161 square feet.

Features & Description (GoveeLife Mini Air Purifier)

The GoveeLife Mini Air Purifier packs a punch in a small package. This compact device fits easily on desks or nightstands, making it perfect for small spaces. It boasts a three-stage filtration system, including a pre-filter to capture larger particles, a True HEPA filter that removes 99.97% of airborne particles as small as 0.3 microns, and an activated carbon filter for odor elimination.

These work together to trap dust, pollen, and pet dander while also tackling odors, smoke, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

Despite its size, this purifier covers rooms up to 161 square feet. It operates quietly, with noise levels as low as 24 decibels in sleep mode, making it ideal for bedrooms or quiet work environments. The purifier also features a night light with seven color options, adding a touch of ambiance to any room. With its energy-efficient design, the GoveeLife Mini consumes only 8 watts of power, helping to keep electricity costs low.

With a CADR (Clean Air Delivery Rate) rating between 36 and 52 cubic feet per minute, it effectively cleans the air in mini rooms, making it a solid choice for budget-conscious shoppers seeking cleaner indoor air. The CADR rating indicates how quickly the purifier can filter the air, with higher numbers representing faster and more efficient air cleaning. For its compact size and price point, the GoveeLife Mini offers respectable performance in small spaces.

Pros & Cons (GoveeLife Mini Air Purifier)

The GoveeLife Mini Air Purifier packs a punch for its size. It’s great for small spaces and won’t break the bank. Users love its quiet operation and sleek design. The three-stage filtration system catches most airborne nasties, giving you cleaner air to breathe. Its compact size makes it highly portable, allowing you to move it easily between rooms or take it with you when traveling.

But it’s not all roses. This little guy can’t handle larger rooms, so stick to using it in tight spots. Some folks wish it had more power for tougher air quality issues. The filter replacement costs should also be considered in the long-term budget. Additionally, while it performs well for its size, it may not be sufficient for homes with severe allergies or air quality problems. Still, for the price, it’s hard to beat as a budget-friendly option for mini rooms, especially for those looking to improve air quality in small, enclosed spaces.

Best Budget Air Purifier for Small Rooms: Medify MA-14 Air Purifier

The Medify MA-14 Air Purifier is the Garage Tested Editor’s Pick for Best of the Best Air Purifiers Under $100. This purifying unit packs a punch for small spaces. It’s a top pick for those wanting clean air without breaking the bank. This compact powerhouse is designed to efficiently clean the air in rooms up to 200 square feet, making it ideal for bedrooms, home offices, or small living areas. With its powerful filtration system and user-friendly features, the MA-14 offers excellent value for budget-conscious consumers seeking improved air quality.

Features & Description (Medify MA-14 Air Purifier)

The Medify MA-14 Air Purifier packs a punch in a small package. It boasts a true HEPA H13 filter that traps 99.97% of tiny particles as small as 0.3 microns. This medical-grade filtration can catch dust, pollen, pet dander, mold spores, and even some bacteria and viruses. The MA-14 also features a pre-filter to capture larger particles and extend the life of the HEPA filter, as well as an activated carbon filter for effective odor elimination.

The device also uses activated carbon to absorb odors, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and harmful gases, helping to create a fresher and healthier indoor environment.

This air cleaner works best in rooms up to 200 square feet, with the ability to clean the air in this space up to 4 times per hour. It has a Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) of 71 cubic feet per minute for smoke, dust, and pollen, indicating its efficiency in removing these common pollutants. The MA-14 offers three fan speeds to adjust the purification intensity based on your needs, and a night mode for ultra-quiet operation as low as 25 decibels, ensuring undisturbed sleep.

It also features a filter replacement indicator to help you keep track of maintenance needs, ensuring optimal performance over time. The MA-14 is energy efficient, consuming only 25 watts on its highest setting, which helps keep operating costs low. Additionally, its compact design (13.5 inches tall and 8.9 inches wide) allows for easy placement on desks, nightstands, or other small surfaces without taking up too much space.

Pros & Cons (Medify MA-14 Air Purifier)

The Medify MA-14 Air Purifier packs a punch in a small package. Its high CADR rating means it cleans air fast, even in tight spaces. Users love how quiet it runs, making it perfect for bedrooms or offices. The medical-grade H13 HEPA filter provides superior filtration compared to many budget models, offering peace of mind for those with allergies or respiratory concerns. Its sleek, modern design also blends well with most decor styles.

The three-stage filtration system catches tiny particles, helping folks breathe easier and potentially reducing allergy symptoms and respiratory irritation.

But it’s not all roses. This purifier only works well in small rooms up to 200 square feet, so it’s a no-go for big spaces or open floor plans. Some users gripe about the cost of replacement filters, which need to be changed every 3-4 months for optimal performance. The lack of smart features like air quality sensors or app connectivity might disappoint tech-savvy users. Still, for its price and performance, the MA-14 is a solid choice for those looking to freshen up their air in small spaces without breaking the bank, especially if superior filtration is a priority.

Best Budget Air Purifier for Medium Rooms: LEVOIT Core 300-P Air Purifier

The LEVOIT Core 300-P Air Purifier packs a punch for medium-sized rooms, offering powerful air cleaning capabilities at an affordable price point. It boasts a high CADR (Clean Air Delivery Rate) of 141 CFM (cubic feet per minute) and uses a three-stage filtration system to trap pollutants effectively. This model is designed to clean the air in rooms up to 1,095 square feet in one hour, making it an excellent choice for living rooms, large bedrooms, or open-concept spaces.

Features & Description (LEVOIT Core 300-P Air Purifier)

The LEVOIT Core 300-P Air Purifier packs a punch in a compact package. It boasts a CADR of 141 CFM, making it perfect for rooms up to 1,095 sq. ft. This powerhouse uses a three-stage filtration system to trap tiny particles, smells, and harmful gases. The filtration system includes a pre-filter for large particles, a H13 True HEPA filter that captures 99.97% of airborne particles as small as 0.3 microns, and an activated carbon filter for eliminating odors and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

The filter catches 99.97% of airborne nasties as small as 0.3 microns, including dust, pollen, pet dander, and mold spores.

Users love the Core 300-P’s quiet operation and sleek design. It features an ultra-quiet Sleep Mode with noise levels as low as 24dB, making it perfect for bedrooms. The purifier offers three fan speeds, a night light feature with two brightness settings, and a timer function that can be set for 2, 4, 6, or 8 hours. The air quality indicator uses a color-coded LED ring to give you real-time updates on your room’s air quality, with blue indicating good, green for moderate, and red for poor air quality.

Plus, its energy-efficient motor helps keep your power bills low, consuming only 45 watts at the highest fan speed. The Core 300-P is also ozone-free, making it safe for continuous use even for those with respiratory sensitivities. For added convenience, the purifier features a filter replacement indicator that alerts you when it’s time to change the filter, typically every 6-8 months depending on usage. Now, let’s check out the pros and cons of this budget-friendly air cleaner.

Pros & Cons (LEVOIT Core 300-P Air Purifier)

The LEVOIT Core 300-P Air Purifier packs a punch for its price. It boasts a high CADR of 141 CFM, making it great for medium-sized rooms up to 1,095 square feet. Users love its quiet operation, with noise levels as low as 24dB in Sleep Mode, and its sleek, modern design that blends well with most decor. The device also offers multiple filter options, including a pet allergy filter, allowing users to customize the purifier to their specific needs. Its compact size (8.7 x 8.7 x 14.2 inches) makes it easy to place in various locations without taking up too much space.

But it’s not all roses. Some folks find the replacement filters a bit pricey, with genuine LEVOIT filters costing around $30-$40 and needing replacement every 6-8 months. Also, while it works well in medium rooms up to 1,095 square feet, it might struggle in larger open-concept spaces or homes with high ceilings. The lack of smart features like app control or air quality sensors, which are available in some higher-end models, might disappoint tech-savvy users.

Despite these minor drawbacks, the Core 300-P stands out in its price range. Its solid performance, versatility, and customizable filtration options make it a top pick for budget-conscious shoppers looking to improve air quality in medium-sized rooms. The combination of high CADR, quiet operation, and energy efficiency offers excellent value for money. Next, let’s check out an option for those with bigger spaces to clean.

Best Budget Air Purifier for Large Rooms: Coway Airmega AP-1512HH

The Coway Airmega AP-1512HH packs a punch for larger spaces, offering powerful air purification at a reasonable price point. It’s a top pick for rooms up to 361 square feet, thanks to its advanced four-stage filtration system and impressive Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR). This model stands out for its ability to efficiently clean the air in larger rooms while maintaining energy efficiency and quiet operation, making it an excellent choice for living rooms, master bedrooms, or open-concept spaces.

Features & Description (Coway Airmega AP-1512HH)

The Coway Airmega AP-1512HH packs a punch in a compact package. This air purifier boasts a four-stage filtration system, including a pre-filter, deodorization filter, True HEPA filter, and a vital ionizer. The True HEPA filter captures 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns, including fine dust, pollen, pet dander, and other allergens. It’s a powerhouse for large rooms, covering up to 361 square feet effectively, with the ability to clean the air twice per hour in spaces of this size.

The unit sports a sleek, modern design that blends well with most decor styles, measuring just 16.8 x 18.3 x 9.6 inches, making it relatively compact for its coverage area. It’s available in white or black to suit different aesthetic preferences.

One standout feature is its smart mode, which uses an air quality sensor to automatically adjust fan speed based on detected pollutant levels. This function optimizes air cleaning efficiency, saves energy, and reduces noise when air quality is good. The AP-1512HH also includes a filter life indicator for both the pre-filter and HEPA filter, simplifying maintenance and ensuring optimal performance. Additionally, it features a timer function, three fan speeds, and an eco mode that turns the fan off when no pollution is detected for 30 minutes, further enhancing its energy efficiency.

With its mix of power and smarts, this Coway model offers great value for budget-conscious shoppers looking for effective air purification in larger spaces. It boasts impressive Clean Air Delivery Rates (CADR) of 246 for dust, 240 for pollen, and 233 for smoke, indicating its efficiency in removing these common pollutants. The Energy Star certification ensures that it operates efficiently, consuming only 77 watts at its highest setting. Now, let’s examine the pros and cons of this air-cleaning device to help you determine if it’s the right choice for your home.

Pros & Cons (Coway Airmega AP-1512HH)

The Coway Airmega AP-1512HH shines with its high rating and discounted price. Users love its quiet operation and sleek design. It cleans air fast, making it great for large rooms. The device also boasts smart features like auto mode and air quality indicators.

But it’s not all roses. The AP-1512HH sits at a higher price point compared to other budget options. Some folks find the replacement filters pricey. Despite these drawbacks, many still think it’s worth the investment for cleaner air.

Best Budget Air Purifier for Extra-Large Rooms: BLUEAIR 211i Max Air Purifier

Got a big space to clean? The BLUEAIR 211i Max Air Purifier might be your new best friend. This powerhouse tackles large rooms with ease, making it a top pick for open-plan homes or spacious offices.

Features & Description (BLUEAIR 211i Max Air Purifier)

The BLUEAIR 211i Max Air Purifier packs a punch for large spaces. It cleans air in rooms up to 635 square feet, making it ideal for open-plan homes or offices. This powerhouse uses a three-stage filtration system to trap dust, pollen, and other pesky particles.

Its activated carbon filter also tackles odors and harmful gases.

Smart features set this air purifier apart. It connects to Wi-Fi, letting you control it with your phone or voice commands. The air quality sensor keeps you in the loop, changing fan speed as needed.

While it’s not the cheapest option, its coverage and tech make it a solid investment for cleaner air.

Pros & Cons (BLUEAIR 211i Max Air Purifier)

Now that we’ve covered the features, let’s weigh the pros and cons of the BLUEAIR 211i Max Air Purifier. This device shines in large spaces, making it a top pick for open floor plans or big rooms.

Its strong air cleaning power tackles dust, pollen, and pet dander with ease. Users love how quiet it runs, even on high settings. The sleek design fits well in most decor styles too.

But it’s not all roses. The price tag might make some folks think twice. It’s on the higher end for budget air purifiers. Also, replacement filters can be pricey over time. Some users wish it had more smart features, like app control or air quality sensors.

Despite these drawbacks, many still find it worth the cost for its solid performance in larger areas.

How We Test Budget Air Purifiers

We put budget air purifiers through tough tests. Our team checks safety, how well they clean air, and what users say about them.

Testing criteria: Safety, effectiveness, and user feedback

We test budget air purifiers with three main factors in mind: safety, effectiveness, and user feedback. Safety checks include looking for UL certification and ozone-free operation.

For effectiveness, we measure the Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) and how well the unit filters out small particles like PM2.5. User feedback helps us gauge real-world performance and ease of use.

We also test noise levels with a sound level meter to ensure the purifier won’t disrupt daily life.

Our tests aim to give you a clear picture of how each air purifier performs. We look at things like how well it cleans different room sizes and how often you need to change filters.

We also check if the unit has useful features like air quality sensors or auto modes. By putting each purifier through its paces, we can help you find the best option for your needs and budget.

Cheap or Affordable Air Purifier FAQs

When buying an air purifier on a budget, many questions come up. Can these devices help with smoke and allergens? How often do you need to change the filters? Let’s clear things up!

Do the best air purifiers under $100 work effectively?

Air purifiers under $100 can work well. Many use HEPA filters, which trap tiny particles like dust and pet dander. These air filters help improve indoor air quality by reducing allergens.

A good rule is to look for a Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) that matches your room size. Despite most of these being considered small air purifiers, their ability to purify the air and operate high air changes per hour is on par with some of the larger units costing 3-5x as much money.

While some budget options might be less powerful than expensive ones, they still reduce smoke and other harmful pollutants. Regular maintenance helps too. Cleaning pre-filters often and replacing main filters on time will keep them running effectively.

For many households, these compact air purifiers offer a simple solution for cleaner air without breaking the bank.

Are these cheap air purifiers loud?

Many air purifiers under $100 are quiet. Noise levels can vary. Some range from 24 dB, which is like a whisper, to about 60 dB, similar to a quiet office. The Levoit Core 300S has a maximum noise level of 48 dB.

This makes it suitable for bedrooms or nurseries where peace is needed.

Most budget options aim for low noise while working effectively at cleaning the air. They help remove pet dander and other pollutants without being too loud. For those who value silence, choosing models with lower decibel ratings is wise.

Next up, let’s look at the best overall choice—the Levoit Core 300S Air Purifier!

How often do you need to replace filters in budget air purifiers?

Filters in budget air purifiers should be replaced every six months. This keeps the purifier working well. Costs for new filters vary between $35 and $60 each year. Maintaining your filter ensures better indoor air quality by trapping pet dander, smoke, and other irritants.

Regular filter changes also help with energy efficiency. A clean filter makes the purifier run smoothly. Dirty filters can cause it to use more power and work harder than needed. Staying on top of this maintenance is simple but important for allergy sufferers and anyone wanting cleaner air at home.

Can budget air purifiers help with smoke and allergens?

Budget air purifiers can help with smoke and allergens. They often use HEPA filters, which remove 99.97% of particles that are 0.3 microns or larger. This includes dust, pet dander, and even some smoke particles.

The Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) tells you how well the purifier works. Higher CADR means better filtration.

Some budget models may struggle with heavy smoke or strong odors. But they still clear out common allergens in your home. Many users have found relief from allergy symptoms after using these devices.

Even a simple air purifier can make indoor air quality much better by reducing pollutants like VOCs and cigarette smoke.

Maintenance Tips to Maximize Purifier Performance

To keep your air purifier working well, you should clean pre-filters often and change filters on schedule. Placing the unit in a good spot makes a difference too. These simple steps help improve air quality.

Want to learn more about keeping your air clean? Keep reading!

Clean pre-filters regularly

Clean pre-filters often. This step is vital for good air quality. Dust and dirt can build up quickly. A clean pre-filter helps the air purifier work better. It captures larger particles like pet dander and dust before they reach the main filter.

Checking your filters every month is a smart way to keep them in top shape. If you live in a polluted area, or have allergies, clean them even more frequently. Keeping pre-filters clear extends their life too, saving you money on replacements later on!

Replace filters on time

Replacing filters on time is key to keeping your air purifier working well. Most filters need a change every six months. This helps maintain good indoor air quality and keeps allergens like pet dander at bay.

The costs for replacement can vary. Expect to spend between $35 and $60 each year on new filters.

Ignoring filter replacement can lead to poor performance. Air pollutants can build up, making the device less effective against smoke or other harmful particles in the air. For best results, check the filter regularly and replace it as needed.

Keeping up with this maintenance ensures you breathe clean air all day long…

Now let’s explore how placing the purifier in an optimal location also boosts its effectiveness.

Place the purifier in an optimal location

Place the air purifier in high-traffic areas. This helps with better airflow. Keeping it near pollution sources is also smart. Positioning it in a room that is half its size will boost its performance.

For the best results, ensure the Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) matches your room size.

Avoid putting the purifier too close to walls or furniture. This can block airflow and reduce effectiveness. A good location allows for smooth circulation of clean air. Now, let’s look at some top picks for air purifiers under $100!

Final Thoughts

Picking a good air purifier on a budget isn’t hard. You just need to know what matters most. Size is key – match the purifier to your room. Look at CADR ratings to see how well it cleans the air.

Check what filters it uses and how often you’ll need to change them. Don’t forget to read what other buyers say. Their real-life experiences can tell you a lot. Want More? Best Air Purifier Brands & Best Air Purifiers.

Air quality changes with the seasons. This makes purifiers extra helpful for folks with allergies. Compare different models side by side. Look at what they can do, what’s good about them, and what’s not so great.

This way, you’ll find the best purifier for your needs and wallet. With a bit of research, you can breathe easier without breaking the bank.