7 Best Plug-In Air Purifiers to Make Sure You Breathe Best Quality Air

By
Carolina Evans
Carolina Evans
Research Writer
Holds a Master’s degree in Engineering and is keen on her own home’s climate. Sometimes we think that Carolina owns every single product she writes about – that’s ho read more
reviewed
Reviewed By
Richard Powell
Richard Powell
Expert Consultant
For 8 years, Richard had been working as an HVAC specialist and AC unit installer since his student years. Now, he’s our main consultant on every technical aspect that may read more
Last updated: August 10, 2023
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Plug-in air purifiers come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and you might need one to eliminate that musky odor that keeps creeping into your living space or kill some of the airborne germs in your surroundings.

We have listed below some great options for you to choose from totaling seven items. This list is a result of reviewing 30 items in total and realizing that 23 of them don’t make the cut. Nevertheless, we have the Germ Guardian CDAP5500B as the editor’s choice. As such, this is the top product we could find owing to top features that elevate its position above other options. Among them are the WIFI and Bluetooth compatibility features. These allow for the device to be smartphone-controlled. In addition to that, you also get a five-year warranty with the purchase. Overall it seems like good value for the money you spend. The other six products listed while not as good as the editor’s choice are still worth considering.

All products featured there are based on merit, and as such, their features play a significant role in determining their rank. Consequently, the coverage area, type of filtration system, dimensions of the products, warranties, among other key features, are excellent benchmarks for determining these products’ worth. As well countless hours have been spent verifying manufacturer claims by also looking into customer reviews. Consequently, the table, buying guide, and product reviews below are all there so you can decide which is the best plug-in air purifier for you.

Quick Summary

  • Editor’s Choice: Germ Guardian CDAP5500B
    "A WIFI and BlueTooth enabled air purifier with HEPA filter, the UV C light filter and a charcoal filter, which is easy to operate from anywhere and has a voice control."
  • Widest Coverage Plug-In Filter: Oransi OV200
    "A durable air purifier with HEPA and carbon filter, three-stage air filtration, a remote control and coverage are of 400 sq. ft."
  • Best Four in One Air Filter: Germ Guardian AC5350B
    "An ultra-quiet air purifier with three different types of filters, a pre-filter and a coverage area of 167 sq.ft."
  • Best Ionic Purifier: PureAir 50
    "An ionic air purifier with scalable purification power and a coverage area of 325 sq. ft."
  • "A versatile air purifier featuring an easy-to-clean HEPA filter, 3 ultra-quiet speed settings and coverage area of 160 sq.ft."
  • Best Dual Gadget Purifier Set: Plixio Portable
    "An lightweight ionic air purifier with an ozone generator and coverage area of 100 sq.ft., comes in a two-pack."
  • Best UV C Light Purifier: Guardian Technologies GG10002PK
    "A compact filter-free air purifier with UV C light filtration system and coverage area of 56 sq.ft., comes in a two-pack."

Top 7 Plug-In Air Purifiers Review 2024

?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 3607 people in the past 30 days
9.7
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.2
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.6
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.6
9.7
1
Editor’s Choice

Germ Guardian CDAP5500B

Features
  • Filtration: True HEPA filter, UV C light, charcoal filter
  • Coverage area: 167 sq. ft.
  • Dimensions: 8.25 x 10.5 x 29.5 in.

Other features: wifi&bluetooth enabled, voice control, 5-speed settings, 5-year warranty

Just looking at the features listed, you will see a direct correlation with the devices’ editor’s choice status. For starters, there are attributes essential to allow the device to carry out its air purification mandate. These are the HEPA filter which can remove almost all airborne particles. There is also the UV C light filter whose primary focus is to eliminate germs and viruses, and lastly, the charcoal filter so that odors in your quarters will be a thing of the past.

Additionally, you also have to consider the small form factor of the device, and this allows it to cover 167 sq. ft. As such, you may need to buy two or three to cover a large room adequately. However, this is expensive as you need to spend close to 150 dollars for each unit. Nevertheless, you will still grow to appreciate the investment if you decide to make the purchase.

There are also extra features, such as Bluetooth and WIFI connectivity. If you download the GT app on your phone, you can control the device from anywhere at any time. This means you can pick and choose from the five speeds that the invention provides. Conversely, you can opt for auto mode, which leaves you with less work to do. The device detects the amount of particles in the air and adjusts the speed of the purifier accordingly.

    What makes it special?
  • Bluetooth and WIFI enabled
  • Three filters in 1
  • Auto mode
  • Easy to operate from anywhere both within and outside the house
  • Five speeds to choose from
  • Five-year warranty
    What cons did we find?
  • Pricey
  • Alexa integration isn’t top-notch with the device in question
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 7957 people in the past 30 days
9.6
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.1
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.2
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.1
9.6
2
Widest Coverage Plug-In Filter

Oransi OV200

Features
  • Filtration: HEPA and carbon filter
  • Coverage area: 400 sq. ft.
  • Dimensions: 13 x 23 x 7 in.

Other features: 3-stage air filtration, pre-filter, activated carbon filter, includes remote control, 10-year warranty

This device is the most expensive device on our list and will need you to come up with a sum higher than 300 dollars. Nevertheless, some of the features incorporated make it seem like the price tag is worth it. For one, the coverage area is extensive in comparison with other options listed. It stands at 400 sq. ft. Next up, it incorporates both a HEPA and carbon filter.

Considering that it comes with a remote, the device is easy to use from anywhere in the room. Also, you will notice the three-stage filtration system. Air has to pass through the pre-filter before going through the other two filters mentioned above. As such, you are all but guaranteed it would come out the other end fresh and clean.

Another impressive aspect is the ten-year warranty. Of course, if you consider how much you have to pay for the device, it is wise of the manufacturer to save you money via the warranty should anything untoward happen.

    Why is it special?
  • Comes with a remote
  • Easy to operate
  • Three-stage filtration
  • Relatively compact
  • Large area coverage
    What are the flaws?
  • The device is expensive
  • You may need to change filters every few months adding extra expenses
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 2536 people in the past 30 days
9.5
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.4
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.3
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.3
9.5
3
Best Four in One Air Filter

Germ Guardian AC5350B

Features
  • Filtration: True HEPA filter, UV C light, charcoal filter
  • Coverage area: 167 sq. ft.
  • Dimensions: 9.1 x 6.7 x 27.6 in.

Other features: pre-filter, ultra-quiet sleep mode, genuine filter replacement (with Guardian filter C or a four-pack of Guardian carbon filters), AHAM verified

The Germ Guardian AC5350B is quite similar to the Germ Guardian CDAP4500B. You can also tell that both these options are from the same manufacturer. An example of similarities is in the inclusion of different types of filters on a single gadget. These are the HEPA filter, charcoal filter, and the UV C filter. The overall design is also quite similar in shape with a few tweaks here and there.

In the features listed, you are bound to notice the inclusion of a pre-filter. This component serves to trap dust as well as other large particles such as pet hair. Concerning maintenance, you are going to need to replace the filters every six to eight months. You are also limited in the filters you can use if you want the best results from the product. The Guardian filter C (FLT5000) or the Guardian carbon filters (FLT28CB4), are the most ideal choices.

Additionally, you can activate quiet mode where you need minimal noise in your space.

    What makes it stand out?
  • Multiple filters included
  • Kills germs, eliminates odors as well as removes particles from the air around you
  • Covers an area of up to 167 sq. Ft.
    Which disadvantages must you keep in mind?
  • Can be loud at higher fan speeds
  • Lighted display on the device can’t be turned off
Also Product Ranking:
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 6277 people in the past 30 days
9.3
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.1
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.8
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.0
9.3
4
Best Ionic Purifier

PureAir 50

Features
  • Filtration: ionic
  • Coverage area: 325 sq. ft.
  • Dimensions: 2.5 x 3.5 x 4.2 in.

Other features: manual, scalable purification power, 1-year warranty

Once you receive this device, you have a warranty that will serve to protect your investment for at least a year. It is a portable device with an ionic filtration system.

You can choose to install it in your kitchen, toilet, or any other room where you feel air quality is not as good as it should be. You will thus experience easier breathing overall. Most notably, the coverage area, which totals 325 sq. ft. is quite impressive.  As such, you won’t be needing as many units as with other counterparts to cover the whole room.

    Why is it special?
  • Compact device
  • Large area coverage
  • One year warranty
  • Allows user to control the speed of purification
    What are the flaws?
  • Consistent hum when in use may prove a nuisance to some users
  • Some users have mentioned that it is not suitable for people with asthma
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 2474 people in the past 30 days
9.2
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.9
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.0
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.7
9.2
Features
  • Filtration: HEPA filter
  • Coverage area: 160 sq. ft.
  • Dimensions: 8.5 x 6 x 13.5 inches

Other features: 3 ultra-quiet speed settings, easy-care, permanent filter, vacuum cleaned, works horizontally or vertically

The Hamilton Allergen Reducer is a quality addition to our list, as well. The device’s position, whether horizontal or vertical, will not affect operation. It uses a HEPA filter with three variable speed settings. You will, however, have to manually set which speed setting you are comfortable with at a particular time of day.

At full blast, the device will be able to purify the air for 160 sq. ft around the device. As such, if you are using it in large rooms, the wise thing to do would be to have two or three of these around. Given that on Amazon, the device costs slightly above 40 dollars, buying two pieces should still be cheaper than buying other single models on our list. Nevertheless, it incorporates a permanent filter that is easy to clean.

    Why did it make our list?
  • Relatively affordable
  • Quiet in operation
  • Captures most airborne particles inclusive on animal dander
  • Includes a permanent filter with no need for replacements
    What is not ideal about it?
  • You have to clean the device from time to time manually
  • Operation is also manual hence no remote control
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 6538 people in the past 30 days
9.0
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.8
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.6
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.7
9.0
6
Best Dual Gadget Purifier Set

Plixio Portable

Features
  • Filtration: ionic
  • Coverage area: 100 sq. ft.
  • Dimensions: 4.5 X 4 x 2 inches

Other features: ozone generator included, ozone output 10-50mg an hour, whisper-quiet ozone output

Just as the image provided suggests, this item comes in a two-pack. The gadgets are easy to carry around in case you need to travel. This is especially handy if you suffer allergic reactions from certain elements in the air. Each device uses an ozone generator to purify the air in the room. It does this by using an air ionizer, which tends to activate oxygen and negative ions. This has the ripple effect of eliminating bacteria in the air and hence removing one of the leading causes of odors.

There is also a dial on the side of the gadget that helps regulate the ozone output. The range you have to work with is between 10-50 mg per hour, and you can adjust this depending on the size of the room, or the air purification needs at a particular time. Also, you are going to appreciate the fact that the device hardly makes a sound while in operation. You can thus leave it on at night in your bedroom while you sleep. Ensure that you vacuum the machine at least once monthly to ensure that you keep getting the results you need from the unit.

    What do we love it for?
  • Compact and portable
  • Comes in a two-pack
  • Adjustable ozone output
  • Easy to use
    What were we disappointed with?
  • No remote control capabilities
  • Coverage area is relatively limited for single units
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 7567 people in the past 30 days
8.8
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.3
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.7
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.3
8.8
7
Best UV C Light Purifier

Guardian Technologies GG10002PK

Features
  • Filtration: UV C light
  • Coverage area: 56 sq. ft. (each)
  • Dimensions: 4 x 3 x 7.5 inches

Other features: compact, filter-free, 1-year warranty

The Guardian Technologies GG10002PK is the third installation by the same manufacturer on our list. It comes in a two-pack with a relatively limited range of use. Positive attributes include its small nature, which may prove ideal for traveling situations. Each unit covers 56 sq. ft. while using a UV C light filtration system. You can also bank on the yearlong warranty should you run into any issues while using the device.

    What are our favorite features?
  • Compact and portable
  • Relatively affordable
    What could be better?
  • Limited purification range

Things to Consider

Aside from the features, there are a few other check boxes that you have to tick before you can pick a model to purchase. Some of you may not know what these checkboxes are hence the buying guide below. Consequently, once you have considered everything below, you can be sure the buying decision you make is the right one.

Benefits of plug-in air purifiers

7 Best Plug-In Air Purifiers to Make Sure You Breathe Best Quality Air

If you have one of these gadgets working close by, maybe not only at home, but when using air purifier for your car, you can be sure that the air you breathe is of better quality. Also, some of them allow you to eliminate nuisance odors. In addition to that, you can get an air purifier that removes pet dander from the air you breathe. This makes it easier to live with that fluffy friend that you love so much.

Features to consider when choosing a plug-in air purifier

Features are still a significant part of the selection process. They determine the capabilities of your device and thus make a valuable benchmark in assessing the suitability of the invention to your home and needs. As such, they are listed and extrapolated below.

Type of filtration

Each particular model will have to have a filtration system to clean the air, and there are various options to choose from.

There is, of course, the HEPA filter, which works by pushing air through a mesh. The air that comes out of the other end is clear with the harmful particles having been trapped in the mesh. On the other hand, you have the ionic filtration system. As mentioned earlier, this system will activate oxygen around the device as well as negative ions, which results in the death of bacteria.

The PureAir 50 is one such device that uses an ionic filtration system.

You may also come across a UV light filtration system. The UV light emitted is powerful enough to eliminate some of the air contaminants in your general vicinity. However, this filtration system has a rather limited range of effect, as is evidenced by the Guardian Technologies GG10002PK. Nevertheless, some manufacturers opt to use this in conjunction with other filtration systems. Our editor’s choice is one such example.

Charcoal filters specialize in being able to eliminate odors quickly, as well.

Room size

It beats the point of having such a device if it only functions in one section of the room you use it in. Where you find that the device’s range is limited, you may have to buy a set of two or more. Nonetheless, some devices are quite impressive in the area they cover. The Oransi OV200 is one such device with an area coverage of about 400 sq. ft.

Dimensions

7 Best Plug-In Air Purifiers to Make Sure You Breathe Best Quality Air

The size of the device is also particularly important as it determines where you place it as well as its portability in situations where you need to travel. The best devices pack impressive features alongside a wide coverage area and all while maintaining a small body.

Warranty

As is typical with a lot of purchases, you may get a warranty as well. It shields you from having to spend more than the initial investment if the device suffers any complications. However, not all manufacturers will offer you a warranty, and even if they do, the terms may not be favorable. As such, you should read through all warranty documents to see if they work for you. This should also be done in the preliminary stages of the buying process as you are weighing your options.

Other features

You will also likely find products with extra features. These include pre-filters and remote controls that allow you to operate the device from across the room. Each additional feature should give you one more reason to purchase a product over other options as you will get more functionality from the device.

FAQ

How often does an air purifier need to run?

You can opt to run the device continuously, or you can choose to turn it on occasionally. It’s all dependent on the air quality in your space and how often you need it cleaned.

How many air purifiers do I need?

This is yet another area that depends on your needs as an individual. You can opt to buy one device with a significantly large coverage area. However, each time you leave a room, you would have to take it with you into the next one. On the other hand, some devices won’t even cover the span of a single room, necessitating that you buy more of them. You can also purchase devices for each room in the house if you so wish.

Is it better to leave windows open or closed when using an air purifier?

Whichever way you choose to leave your windows doesn’t matter as the purifier should be able to clean new pollutants coming into the room as well.

Our verdict

Where the top three gadgets are concerned, the Germ Guardian AC5350B makes it into the fray due to its superior filter setup. You have a prefilter in addition to three other filters as well. Most other options have one filter hence the reason this model stands out above the rest and is also considered to be one of the best air purifiers for mold.

Another quality pick making it into the three highest recommended gadgets is the Oransi OV200. If you want a single device for each room, then this is it due to the coverage area. It also features the best warranty in our list. Nevertheless, it comes at a rather high price point, so only order this if you can afford it.

The editor’s choice is an excellent all-round tool to have in your house. It also features multiple filters like Germ Guardian AC5350B from the same manufacturer. You also get smartphone control via a downloadable app. This makes it easier to operate from a distance. There isn’t much left to do but to log on to Amazon and order your favorite plug-in air filter. Let us know how that goes in the comments section below.

9,7
Total Score
Germ Guardian CDAP5500B - Editor’s Choice
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