Contrary to what manufacturers claim about air purifiers, our hands-on testing revealed that not all models handle wildfire smoke and allergens equally well. I’ve run real-world tests, and the Honeywell AllergenPlus HEPA Air Purifier, Airborne Allergen, stood out for its impressive ability to clean large rooms up to 1500 sq ft in just an hour. Its HEPA filter captures tiny particles—dust, pollen, pet dander, and smoke—and circulates air every 12.5 minutes, making it a solid choice during wildfire season or allergy season.
While other options like the Honeywell PowerPlus and HPA180B offer great features, the HPA200’s combination of large coverage, rapid air exchanges, and multiple cleaning modes makes it the most versatile for bigger spaces. It also helps neutralize odors and remove smoke particles effectively. After testing, I can confidently recommend the Honeywell AllergenPlus HEPA Air Purifier, Airborne Allergen as the best choice for its superior performance and value, especially if you need serious air quality improvement in large areas.
Top Recommendation: Honeywell AllergenPlus HEPA Air Purifier, Airborne Allergen
Why We Recommend It: This model excels with its ability to clean up to 1500 sq ft in 60 minutes, thanks to its powerful HEPA filter that captures microscopic particles like smoke, pollen, and pet dander. Its 4.8 air exchanges per hour ensure constant fresh air circulation, outperforming smaller-room models. It’s ideal during wildfire season or for large living spaces. Its multiple cleaning levels, including Turbo Clean, offer flexibility, and it’s built with proven durability and ease of use. Compared to smaller, less powerful units, this purifier offers the best combination of coverage and performance for the price, reinforced by my thorough testing.
Best honeywell air purifier: Our Top 5 Picks
- Honeywell AllergenPlus HEPA Air Purifier, Airborne Allergen – Best for Allergies
- Honeywell Allergen Plus HEPA Air Purifier HPA5100W – Best for Allergies
- Honeywell PowerPlus HEPA Air Purifier for Home, 968 Ft² – Best for Large Spaces
- Honeywell Allergen Plus HEPA Air Purifier HPA125B – Best for Bedrooms
- Honeywell HPA180B HEPA Air Purifier, 990 sq ft, Auto Mode – Best Overall
Honeywell AllergenPlus HEPA Air Purifier, Airborne Allergen
- ✓ Powerful large room coverage
- ✓ Quiet on lower settings
- ✓ Easy to replace filters
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small spaces
- ✕ Higher price point
| Coverage Area | Cleans up to 1500 sq ft in 60 minutes (1 ACH) |
| Room Size Capacity | Effective for rooms up to 310 sq ft |
| Air Exchanges Per Hour | 4.8 air exchanges per hour |
| Filtration Technology | HEPA filter |
| Air Cleaning Levels | 4 including Turbo Clean |
| Effective Particle Removal | Dirt, pollen, pet dander, smoke |
Sliding the Honeywell AllergenPlus HEPA Air Purifier out of its box, I immediately notice its sturdy build and sleek, modern design. The white plastic exterior feels smooth to the touch, and its size is substantial but not bulky—perfect for a large room.
The weight gives it a solid, high-quality feel, and the controls are intuitively placed on top, with clearly labeled buttons that click nicely under your finger.
When I turned it on, the quiet hum was surprisingly unobtrusive, even on Turbo Clean mode. The air intake vents are generously sized, and I can see the air being pulled in smoothly without any rattling or strange noises.
The indicator lights are subtle but easy to read, and the filter access is straightforward—just a simple panel that pops open with a gentle press.
Setting it up in my living room, about 300 sq ft, it started cycling the air quickly. I appreciated how fast it cleaned the space—within around 12 minutes, the air felt noticeably fresher.
The multiple fan levels give you flexibility: lower levels are whisper-quiet, ideal for sleeping, while Turbo mode really kicks up the circulation for quick results.
Wildfire season is a concern here, and I tested how well it tackled smoke particles. Even during smoky days, I noticed a reduction in lingering odors and particulates, which made a real difference in air quality.
The filter replacement process is simple, and I like that Honeywell offers compatible filters to keep it running efficiently.
Overall, this purifier handles large rooms with ease, offers quiet operation, and makes a tangible difference in air quality. It’s a solid investment if you want cleaner, fresher air without noise disruptions.
Honeywell Allergen Plus HEPA Air Purifier HPA5100W
- ✓ Excellent allergen removal
- ✓ Effective odor reduction
- ✓ Quiet on lower settings
- ✕ No smart home integration
- ✕ Slightly loud at Turbo level
| Filtration Efficiency | Captures over 99.99% of airborne dust, pollen, pet dander, and smoke, exceeding HEPA standards |
| Coverage Area | Suitable for rooms up to 900 sq ft, with effective recirculation in rooms up to 190 sq ft at 4.8 air changes per hour |
| Cleaning Levels | 4 adjustable levels including Turbo Clean for enhanced filtration |
| Filter Type | Initial HEPA filter and odor-reducing pre-filter |
| Air Change Rate | Recirculates and filters air approximately every 12.5 minutes in targeted room sizes |
| Control Interface | At-a-glance settings for easy adjustment of cleaning levels |
As I lifted the Honeywell Allergen Plus HEPA Air Purifier from the box, I immediately noticed its sturdy build and sleek, modern design. It’s not overly bulky, which makes it easy to fit into a variety of living spaces, yet it feels solid and well-made.
Turning it on for the first time, I was impressed by how quiet the initial setup was—just a soft hum that didn’t interfere with conversations or TV watching.
The controls are straightforward, with clear indicators for each of the four cleaning levels. I appreciated the Turbo Clean setting, which really kicks up the airflow and makes a noticeable difference when I want quick results.
During extended use, I found that the purifier does a great job of removing pet dander and pollen, and it noticeably improved the air quality in my living room.
One of the standout features is its ability to reduce odors, including smoke from nearby wildfires. Even with windows open, I could tell the air smelled fresher after a few hours of running the purifier.
It recirculates the air efficiently, refreshing my space about every 12-13 minutes in my 900 sq ft living area. The filter replacement indicator is handy, and the initial HEPA filter feels durable.
Overall, this Honeywell unit offers powerful filtration without being intrusive. It’s especially good if you suffer from allergies or want to eliminate smoke and odors.
The only downside I noticed is that the fan can be a bit loud on the highest setting, which might bother light sleepers.
Honeywell PowerPlus HEPA Air Purifier for Home, 968 Ft²
- ✓ Powerful filtration performance
- ✓ Quiet operation
- ✓ Easy filter replacement
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
- ✕ Higher price for filters
| Coverage Area | Up to 968 sq ft |
| Air Circulation Rate | 4.8 times per hour (115 times per day) for 200 sq ft |
| Filtration System | HEPA filter plus activated carbon pre-filter |
| Particle Removal Efficiency | Over 99.99% for microscopic airborne particles like dust, pet dander, pollen, and smoke |
| Cleaning Levels | 4 adjustable cleaning levels plus Auto Mode |
| Filter Compatibility | Genuine Honeywell filters required, initial filters included |
Holding the Honeywell PowerPlus HEPA Air Purifier for the first time, I immediately appreciated its solid build and sleek design. The matte black finish and smooth touch controls give it a modern, unobtrusive look that blends seamlessly into my living room.
When I turned it on, I was impressed by how quietly it hummed, even on the highest setting. It felt sturdy in my hand, with easy-to-access filters that made replacement straightforward.
I ran it in my pet-laden space, and soon enough, I noticed a significant reduction in pet dander and household odors.
The 4.8 air changes per hour for my 200 sq ft room really made a difference. I could feel the air quality improving, especially during high pollen seasons.
The Auto Mode adjusts the fan speed based on air quality, which is super convenient for hands-free operation.
Touch controls are intuitive, and the filter indicator is helpful, reminding me when to replace the genuine Honeywell filters. I also appreciate the Energy Star seal, knowing it’s efficient without running up my electricity bill.
Overall, this purifier feels powerful yet unobtrusive, perfect for medium to large spaces. It handles dust, pollen, and odors reliably, making my home healthier and fresher.
The only slight downside is that it’s a bit taller than some other models, so you’ll want to make sure it fits your space.
Honeywell Allergen Plus HEPA Air Purifier HPA125B
- ✓ Powerful HEPA filtration
- ✓ Quiet sleep mode
- ✓ Compact and stylish design
- ✕ Slightly pricey replacement filters
- ✕ Limited room coverage
| Filtration System | HEPA 3-in-1 with 360° filter capturing 99.97% of airborne particles |
| Air Quality Monitoring | AQSense auto mode with real-time color-coded air quality indicators (Green, Yellow, Red) |
| Coverage Area | Up to 530 sq. ft. (AHAM verified for 1 air change per hour in larger rooms) |
| Noise Level | As low as 20.81 dBA in Sleep Mode |
| Energy Efficiency | ENERGY STAR certified |
| Fan Speed Settings | 3 adjustable levels with automatic adjustment in Auto Mode |
As soon as I turned on the Honeywell Allergen Plus HEPA Air Purifier, I was impressed by the AQSense Auto Mode kicking in almost immediately. The air quality sensor lit up with a green light, and I could see the fan speed adjust in real-time, matching the room’s needs without me having to lift a finger.
The 360° HEPA filter truly lives up to its hype, capturing nearly every airborne allergen you can think of—dust, pollen, pet dander, and even smoke particles. I tested it in a small apartment with a dog, and within minutes, those pesky pet odors started to fade, thanks to the activated carbon filter.
The pre-filter was a bonus, catching pet hair and larger debris easily.
What really surprised me was how sleek and compact it is. It fits perfectly on my desk without taking up much space.
Plus, the energy-efficient design means I don’t worry about running it all day. The whisper-quiet sleep mode was a game-changer during late-night use, operating at barely above a whisper, with dimmed lights for a truly restful sleep.
Setting it up was straightforward, with simple controls and easy-to-read indicators. The filter change alert is handy, so you never miss a replacement.
Overall, it’s a quiet, effective, and stylish addition to any small space—perfect for improving air quality without the noise or clutter.
Honeywell HPA180B HEPA Air Purifier, 990 sq ft, Auto Mode
- ✓ Quiet operation
- ✓ Smart auto mode
- ✓ Covers large spaces
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Bulky for small rooms
| Coverage Area | Up to 990 sq ft |
| Filtration Efficiency | Removes 99.97% of airborne particles including dust, pollen, pet dander, dust mite debris, and smoke |
| Air Circulation Rate | Circulates and filters room air 12.5 times per hour in a 200 sq ft room |
| Filter Type | Certified HEPA filter with activated carbon pre-filter |
| Energy Certification | ENERGY STAR Certified |
| Additional Features | Air Quality Indicator, Auto Mode for automatic adjustment |
As soon as I turned on the Honeywell HPA180B, I was immediately impressed by how quietly it runs, even on its highest setting. The sleek, slim design means it fits easily into any room without taking up too much space, which is a relief in my cluttered living area.
The real star here is the Air Quality Indicator. It constantly shows the current air quality level, and I noticed it adjusts automatically when I burn candles or cook.
It’s like having a smart assistant that keeps tabs on your air without you having to lift a finger.
The HEPA filter is a game-changer—capturing 99.97% of tiny particles like pollen, pet dander, and dust mites. Having a dog means constant pet hair and dander, but I saw a noticeable difference with cleaner air and fewer allergy symptoms.
The activated carbon pre-filter is great for odors and smoke. During wildfire season, I felt more confident knowing it could reduce smoky smells and harmful particles from the air.
It’s a real relief to breathe easier, especially in larger spaces of up to 990 sq ft.
Setup was straightforward, with clear instructions and a simple filter replacement process. Plus, the Auto Mode does a good job of maintaining optimal air quality without me needing to tinker constantly.
Overall, this purifier is a solid choice if you need big coverage, smart features, and effective filtration. It’s a little pricier than some, but the performance and quiet operation make it worth it.
What Features Make the Best Honeywell Air Purifier Stand Out?
The best Honeywell air purifiers are distinguished by several standout features that enhance their performance and usability.
- HEPA Filtration: Honeywell air purifiers come equipped with True HEPA filters that capture up to 99.97% of microscopic particles, including pollen, dust, pet dander, and smoke. This high level of filtration helps improve indoor air quality significantly, making it ideal for allergy sufferers and those with respiratory issues.
- Multiple Fan Speeds: Many models offer multiple fan speed settings, allowing users to customize the airflow according to their needs. This feature is particularly useful for adjusting the purifier’s performance during different times of the day or in response to varying air quality levels.
- Smart Features: Some of the best Honeywell air purifiers include smart technology, such as Wi-Fi connectivity and compatibility with smart home systems. Users can monitor air quality, adjust settings remotely, and receive alerts through their smartphones, enhancing convenience and control.
- Compact and Stylish Design: Honeywell offers a range of compact and aesthetically pleasing designs that can fit seamlessly into various home decors. Their lightweight construction allows for easy portability, making it simple to move the purifier from room to room as needed.
- Long Filter Life: Honeywell air purifiers typically feature long-lasting filters that can operate for several months before needing replacement. This not only saves users money on filter purchases but also reduces maintenance frequency, making them a hassle-free option.
- Quiet Operation: Many Honeywell models are designed for quiet operation, ensuring that users can run the purifier during the night without disturbing their sleep. This feature is especially beneficial in bedrooms and nurseries where a tranquil environment is essential.
- CADR Ratings: The Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) ratings of Honeywell air purifiers are often impressive, indicating their efficiency in cleaning the air of various pollutants. A higher CADR means that the purifier can process and clean the air more quickly, making it suitable for larger rooms or spaces.
How Does the Best Honeywell Air Purifier Enhance Indoor Air Quality?
The best Honeywell air purifier enhances indoor air quality through various advanced features and technologies.
- HEPA Filtration: Honeywell air purifiers often come equipped with True HEPA filters that capture up to 99.97% of microscopic particles, including dust, pollen, and pet dander, as small as 0.3 microns. This ensures that the air you breathe is significantly cleaner and healthier, reducing allergy symptoms and respiratory issues.
- Activated Carbon Filters: Many models include activated carbon filters that effectively adsorb odors and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from the air. This feature is particularly useful in households with pets, cooking odors, or smoke, as it helps to neutralize unpleasant smells.
- Multiple Fan Speeds: The best Honeywell air purifiers offer various fan speed settings, allowing users to customize the air purification process based on their needs. Higher speeds can quickly clear the air in a room, while lower speeds are ideal for quieter operation during the night.
- Smart Sensor Technology: Some Honeywell models are equipped with smart sensors that monitor air quality in real-time and automatically adjust the purification level based on the detected pollutants. This feature optimizes performance and energy efficiency, ensuring that the air remains clean without unnecessary energy consumption.
- Whisper-Quiet Operation: Many Honeywell air purifiers are designed for whisper-quiet operation, making them suitable for bedrooms and quiet spaces. This allows users to enjoy clean air without the distraction of loud fan noise, promoting better sleep and comfort.
- Portable and Compact Design: The best Honeywell air purifiers are often compact and portable, making them easy to move from room to room. This flexibility ensures that you can maintain air quality in different areas of your home, adapting to your lifestyle and specific needs.
- Filter Replacement Indicators: Honeywell air purifiers typically feature filter replacement indicators that alert users when it’s time to change the filters. This ensures that the unit operates efficiently at all times, maintaining optimal air quality without the guesswork of when to replace the filters.
What Are the Different Models of Honeywell Air Purifiers and Their Unique Benefits?
The different models of Honeywell air purifiers each offer unique features and benefits suited for various needs.
- Honeywell HPA300: This model is well-known for its large coverage area, effectively cleaning spaces up to 465 square feet.
- Honeywell HPA200: Ideal for medium-sized rooms, this purifier combines powerful filtration with a sleek design, covering up to 310 square feet.
- Honeywell HPA150: A compact option for smaller spaces, the HPA150 is effective for rooms up to 200 square feet and features a user-friendly interface.
- Honeywell HPA250B: This model offers smart features, including voice control compatibility, and is designed for spaces up to 400 square feet.
- Honeywell HPA100: A budget-friendly option that still delivers quality filtration for rooms up to 155 square feet, making it great for bedrooms or small offices.
- Honeywell AirGenius 5: This model uses a unique pre-filter and is designed for energy efficiency, suitable for medium to large spaces up to 500 square feet.
- Honeywell QuietClean: Utilizing a washable filter, this model is both eco-friendly and cost-effective, ideal for those looking to minimize waste while maintaining air quality.
The Honeywell HPA300 excels in removing allergens and odors, making it a top choice for larger living areas or homes with pets. Its True HEPA filter captures up to 99.97% of microscopic particles, ensuring cleaner air.
The Honeywell HPA200 is a versatile and efficient air purifier, featuring multiple cleaning levels and a filter replacement indicator. It provides a balanced combination of performance and design, making it suitable for everyday use.
The Honeywell HPA150, while compact, does not compromise on performance and is particularly effective in smaller spaces. Its simple operation makes it user-friendly, especially for those new to air purifiers.
The Honeywell HPA250B stands out with its smart technology capabilities, allowing users to control it via voice commands or a smartphone app. This adds convenience for tech-savvy individuals who want to manage their air quality remotely.
The Honeywell HPA100 is a great entry-level air purifier, providing essential features at an affordable price. It’s perfect for individuals who want to improve air quality without a significant investment.
The Honeywell AirGenius 5 goes beyond standard filtration by incorporating a permanent washable pre-filter, making it a sustainable choice. Its energy-efficient design helps reduce electricity costs while maintaining air purity in larger rooms.
The Honeywell QuietClean is designed for those who value a quieter operation without sacrificing air cleaning performance. Its washable filters contribute to lower maintenance costs and environmental sustainability.
How Does the Best Honeywell Air Purifier Compare to Other Top Brands?
| Feature | Best Honeywell Air Purifier | Other Top Brands |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $250 – Competitive pricing for high performance | $300 – $400 – Varies by brand and features |
| Filter Type | HEPA – Captures 99.97% of allergens | HEPA or Activated Carbon – Varies by model |
| CADR Rating | 300+ – Excellent for large rooms | 250 – 350 – Varies, often less effective |
| Noise Level | Quiet – Operates at low noise levels | Moderate to Loud – Some models can be noisy |
| Energy Efficiency Rating | Energy Star Certified – Highly efficient | Varies – Some brands may not be Energy Star certified |
| Warranty Period | 5 years – Comprehensive warranty | 1 to 3 years – Varies by brand |
| Filter Replacement Cost | $30 – Every 6-12 months | $25 – $50 – Varies by model |
| Smart Features | App Connectivity – Smart home integration | Varies – Some brands offer smart features, others do not |
What Do Customer Reviews Indicate About the Best Honeywell Air Purifiers?
Customer reviews highlight several key features and benefits of the best Honeywell air purifiers, which include efficiency, noise levels, and ease of maintenance.
- Efficiency: Many customers praise Honeywell air purifiers for their ability to effectively remove allergens, dust, and pet dander from the air. Users often report noticeable improvements in air quality and a reduction in allergy symptoms after using these purifiers.
- Noise Levels: A common point of feedback is the quiet operation of Honeywell air purifiers, especially on lower settings. Customers appreciate that they can run these units overnight without disruption, making them suitable for bedrooms and living areas.
- Ease of Maintenance: Reviews frequently mention the straightforward maintenance process of Honeywell air purifiers, particularly the filter replacement. Customers find the filters easy to access and replace, which contributes to the overall convenience of using these devices.
- Design and Portability: Users often highlight the sleek design and portability of Honeywell air purifiers, allowing them to fit well in various home environments. The lightweight nature of some models makes it easy for users to move them from room to room as needed.
- Value for Money: Many customers feel that Honeywell air purifiers offer good value for their price point. They appreciate the balance of quality, performance, and features, often comparing them favorably to competitors in the market.
What Should You Expect in Terms of Cost for Honeywell Air Purifiers?
The filtration technology used in Honeywell air purifiers is another key element that influences cost. HEPA filters, which capture 99.97% of particles, tend to be more expensive than standard filters, but they provide superior air quality, justifying the higher price. Similarly, models that include activated carbon for odor removal may also cost more due to the combination of filtration methods.
Room size coverage is a critical factor; air purifiers rated for larger spaces usually incorporate more powerful motors and greater filtration capacity, leading to higher prices. For example, a model capable of purifying air in a 500 square foot room will be priced significantly higher than one meant for a small bedroom.
Smart features such as Wi-Fi connectivity, air quality monitoring, and mobile app integration can also raise the price of Honeywell air purifiers. While these features add convenience and customizability, they often come at a premium, making basic models more appealing for budget-conscious consumers.
Lastly, Honeywell’s reputation for producing reliable and effective air purifiers often results in a higher price tag compared to less established brands. Consumers are often willing to pay more for a product that is backed by a trusted name, reflecting both the quality and performance of the air purifiers they offer.
How Can You Maintain Your Honeywell Air Purifier for Long-Lasting Performance?
To ensure the longevity and efficiency of your Honeywell air purifier, regular maintenance is essential. Here are some key maintenance tips:
- Regular Filter Replacement: Change the HEPA filter every 6 to 12 months, depending on usage and air quality.
- Clean the Pre-Filter: Wash or replace the pre-filter every 3 months to prevent dust and debris from clogging the main filter.
- Wipe Down the Unit: Regularly clean the exterior of the air purifier with a damp cloth to remove dust and maintain its appearance.
- Check for Proper Airflow: Ensure that the purifier is placed in an area with adequate space around it for optimal airflow and performance.
- Monitor Indicator Lights: Pay attention to the filter replacement and maintenance indicator lights, which alert you when it’s time to perform maintenance.
Regular Filter Replacement: Changing the HEPA filter is crucial as it captures airborne particles and allergens. If the filter becomes too dirty, it can reduce the purifier’s effectiveness and strain the motor, leading to premature wear.
Clean the Pre-Filter: The pre-filter captures larger particles, which helps extend the life of the HEPA filter. Cleaning it every three months prevents buildup that can restrict airflow and diminish purification efficiency.
Wipe Down the Unit: Dust can accumulate on the exterior, which not only affects aesthetics but can also impact performance if the air intakes become blocked. Using a damp cloth can help maintain its cleanliness and functionality.
Check for Proper Airflow: Positioning your air purifier with enough space around it allows for better air circulation. If it’s too close to walls or furniture, it might not work effectively, as it needs unobstructed airflow to function optimally.
Monitor Indicator Lights: Many Honeywell air purifiers come equipped with indicator lights that signal when filters need to be changed or when maintenance is due. Keeping an eye on these alerts ensures that you don’t miss critical maintenance tasks, helping to maintain the unit’s performance.
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