How We Test Air Purifiers

Air purifiers are becoming increasingly popular as people prioritize clean indoor air. We understand the importance of helping our readers make informed decisions when choosing the right air purifier for their needs. That’s why we put every air purifier through rigorous testing to ensure we provide accurate and reliable reviews.

Selecting Air Purifiers to Review

We make sure to review a wide range of air purifiers to cater to different budgets and preferences. Our selection process includes major brands like Dyson, Honeywell, Blueair, and Philips, as well as lesser-known brands offering competitive performance at various price points.

Additionally, we consider air purifiers designed for specific needs, such as those suitable for large rooms, allergies, or pet owners.

Testing Air Purifiers

Our testing process is thorough and conducted by experts with extensive knowledge of indoor air quality and purification technology. We evaluate each air purifier based on several criteria, including:

  1. Performance: We measure the effectiveness of air purification by assessing the reduction of common indoor pollutants such as dust, pollen, pet dander, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

  2. Filter Efficiency: We examine the efficiency of the filters in capturing particles of different sizes, from large debris to microscopic allergens.

  3. Noise Level: We assess the noise output of the air purifier at various fan speeds to determine its suitability for different environments, including bedrooms and living rooms.

  4. Energy Consumption: We evaluate the energy efficiency of the air purifier to help users make informed decisions about operating costs.

  5. Durability and Ease of Maintenance: We inspect the build quality and ease of filter replacement and general maintenance to ensure long-term usability.

Real-World Testing

Our testing process involves real-world scenarios to simulate everyday usage. We place the air purifiers in different room sizes and environments, including bedrooms, living rooms, and kitchens, to evaluate their performance in various conditions. We also consider factors like airflow direction and placement to optimize effectiveness.

Evaluating Air Quality

We monitor indoor air quality throughout the testing period using specialized sensors to provide quantitative data on pollutant levels. This allows us to objectively assess the impact of each air purifier on improving air quality over time.

Awarding Ratings

All our air purifier reviews are rated on a 5-point scale, with higher ratings indicating superior performance and value. Products that stand out in specific areas may receive additional recognition, such as our Editor’s Choice award.

You can check out the best air purifiers we’ve selected after rigorous testing in our lab.

Our Consumer Reports

If you want to access all of our most up-to-date test results, subscribe to our consumer reports. It’s worth every penny, as you’ll save money by selecting the right air purifier that truly works.