5 Best Small Air Purifiers That Will Fit into Any Space

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 28, 2023
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Breathe in. Breathe out. How confident are you in the quality of the air in your home? Everyone can benefit from an air purifier. You might not be aware of the contents of your air, which is why an air purifier is so essential. It removes bacteria, mold, and allergens, and produces clean, filtered air. While larger sized air purifiers do exist, there is also a wide range of smaller products. If you’re looking for the best small air purifier, you’ve come to the right place.

We’ve compiled a list of five best small air purifiers currently available on the market. We’ve also researched the critical features of each product. These include the coverage area, so you know what size of room is best for each air purifier. The type of filters included will also tell you what is removed from the air. Dimensions are important, so you can find the right space for your machine. And finally, the CADR level is crucial to understand. This stands for the Clean Air Delivery Rate, and refers to the amount of air that has been cleaned via the air purifier within a certain time period.

After careful, in-depth research, that focused on manufacturer information, online reviews, and our personal observations, we have come up with this product guide. There is a table overview of the top five air purifiers, followed by more detailed descriptions. Finally, there is a buying guide with some specific information about air purifiers. When you make it till the end, we hope that your journey to purchasing a new small air purifier is as easy as possible.

Quick Summary

  • "This compact device boasts three effective filters, two of which are permanent and will save you money in the long run"
  • Best Small Air Purifier for Allergies: GermGuardian AC4100
    "One of the bestsellers in its category, this device fights bacteria, mold, dust, and pollen quickly leaving your air clean and fresh"
  • Most Stylish Small Air Purifier: Blue Pure 411
    "Available in different color options this sleekly designed device will blend in with any décor while operating efficiently and quietly"
  • Best Small HEPA Air Purifier: LEVOIT LV-H132
    "This stylish air purifier can also double as a night light and features three speeds for versatility"
  • "A compact portable solution for very small rooms and personal use at an affordable price"

Top 5 Small Air Purifiers Review 2024

?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 7978 people in the past 30 days
9.8
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.5
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.7
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.6
9.8
Features
  • Filters type: permanent pre-filter; 2 replaceable carbon zeolite filters; permanent HEPA-grade filter
  • Fan speeds: 3
  • Coverage area: up to 140 sq. ft.
  • Dimensions: 9.8 x 8.1 x 16.4 inches
  • Warranty: 1-year limited

More features: can be used vertically and horizontally

The Hamilton Beach 04384 has it all, which is why it is our Editor’s Choice for small air purifiers. The HEPA filtration system is able to get rid of 99% of unwanted particles in your air. This makes it perfect for anyone that suffers from asthma or allergies.

As for the construction, it features two permanent filters, which means you don’t have to spend money every year replacing them. This can result in quite a lot of money saved. The filters use carbon zeolite which also helps to eliminate pet odors. For anyone that has a furry friend, but wants cleaner air, the Hamilton Beach 04384 is the perfect investment.

The Hamilton Beach 04384 works well in small living rooms or bedrooms, up to 140 square feet in size. Its dimensions are unique in that while it is a bit longer than other similar products, you can actually place the air purifier on its side or standing up. For those short on space options, the versatility of the Hamilton Beach 04384 makes it a stand-out product.

If you don’t like the constant drone of noise that some appliances produce, have no fear as the Hamilton Beach 04384 is whisper quiet. You have it on in the living room, and it won’t disturb a conversation or a movie. You can also leave it on at night and not have your precious dreams disturbed.

    What makes it special?
  • Very quiet and won’t disturb your sleep
  • Can be used vertically or horizontally
  • Two filters don’t have to be removed, which will save you money
    What cons did we find?
  • No air quality indicator
  • Carbon filters need to be replaced regularly
Also Product Ranking:
See more...
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 6579 people in the past 30 days
9.6
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.1
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.3
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.3
9.6
2
Best Small Air Purifier for Allergies

GermGuardian AC4100

Features
  • Filters type: charcoal filter; true HEPA filter
  • Fan speeds: 3
  • Coverage area: up to 78 sq. ft.
  • Dimensions: 7.5 x 6.4 x 10.4 inches
  • Warranty: 1-year limited

More features: optional UV-C light; Energy Star certified

We all wash our hands to kill germs, but what about the air that we breathe? If you’re worried about what you breathe into your body, then the GermGuardian AC4100 is the right choice for you. As its name suggests, this is one of the best air purifiers for germs in small rooms. While it should be used year-round, it is especially helpful during cough and cold season. And if you have little children that like to bring new germs into the house, this is an especially good product to have around.

The HEPA filter of the GermGuardian AC4100 traps 99.97% of all dust and allergens. This includes pet dander, mold spores, and plant pollens. For those with weakened immune systems or severe allergies, then you will want to put this air purifier in your room. The GermGuardian AC4100 also works to eliminate odors. Whether from a fluffy animal or a cigarette smoker, this small air purifier can work wonders in removing odors from the air.

If you’re looking for even more protection against germs, then there is the option of using light technology with the GermGuardian AC4100. This technology uses titanium dioxide and will kill airborne bacteria, germs, and even viruses. If someone in your home is sick and contagious, the light technology of the GermGuardian AC4100 can actually help to prevent the illness from being spread.

And also don’t forget, that this model is very budget-friendly, it’s not for no reason that it has been voted as Budget Pick among best 20 air purifiers.

    Why did it make our list?
  • Small enough to fit on a shelf in any room
  • Optional light technology provides an extra defense against germs
  • Can actually help to prevent the spread of viruses
    What is not ideal about it?
  • Limited coverage area, of only 78 square feet
Also Product Ranking:
Read full review: germguardian ac4100
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 2675 people in the past 30 days
9.4
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.2
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.9
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.1
9.4
3
Most Stylish Small Air Purifier

Blue Pure 411

Features
  • Filters type: fabric pre-filter; + particle filter + carbon filter
  • Fan speeds: 3
  • Coverage area: up to 161 sq. ft.
  • Dimensions: 16.7 x 8 x 8 inches
  • Warranty: 1-year limited (extended to 2-year after registration)

More features: optional pre-filter colors; low energy consumption

Sometimes it’s nice when the electronic device you buy blends in with your décor. With the Blue Pure 411 you not only get an incredibly efficient small air purifier, but also a very stylish unit. While other products are bulky and boxy, the Blue Pure 411 has a cylindrical shape to it and can easily fit onto an end table, dresser, or bookshelf. It can blend in, working quietly to maintain the air quality levels in your home.

The filtration system of the Blue Pure 411 has three parts to it and together will capture 99% of airborne pollutants. If you’re worried about mold, smoke, dust, or pet dander, you won’t have to worry anymore. As for odors, the Blue Pure 411 also works against these. Indeed, many users have commented on how this air purifier was able to get rid of pet odors quickly. If you live in an area that frequently has forest fires, keeping the smoke and ash out of your air can be tough. Thankfully, the high power of the Blue Pure 411 can help in even the worst climates.

With all this power, you would think that the Blue Pure 411 would be noisy, but the opposite is true. In fact, it has just a 17 dB level at its lowest setting. This is perfect if you want to leave the air purifier on at night as it won’t disrupt your sleep.

    Why is it special?
  • Looks modern and sophisticated
  • The lowest setting is very quiet
  • Rated the best Blue Air product on Amazon
    What are the flaws?
  • The small light on machine can be disturbing at night
  • Particle and carbon filters need to be replaced regularly
Also Product Ranking:
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 2516 people in the past 30 days
9.2
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.8
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.7
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.0
9.2
4
Best Small HEPA Air Purifier

LEVOIT LV-H132

Features
  • Filters type: fine preliminary filter; true HEPA; activated carbon
  • Fan speeds: 3
  • Coverage area: small rooms
  • Dimensions: 32 x 19 x 19 inches
  • Warranty: 2-year limited

More features: nightlight function; touch control

If you’re looking for the best small air purifier for smoke, then be sure to check out the LEVOIT LV-H132. With its three-stage filtration system, you can rest easy knowing that the air you’re breathing in is incredibly clean. 99.97% of all dust, smoke, pollen, and pet dander is removed thanks to the HEPA filter. The filter also uses activated carbon, which is a terrific natural way to eliminate pet odors. If you’re worried about the environment, take heart as the LEVOIT LV-H132 doesn’t use UV or ions. While these help eliminate airborne particles, they can actually produce trace amounts of ozone, which can be harmful.

One nice bonus feature of the LEVOIT LV-H132 is that it has a night light built in. There are two brightness settings to choose from. If you have kids that find it hard to sleep in the dark, this is a perfect product for them. Not only will it let them breathe easier at night, but it will also keep them feeling safe and secure.

There are three fan settings, which is perfect if you don’t like a lot of noise while you sleep. You can turn it to a quiet, low setting, which won’t disturb your dreams. During the day, you can change the fan to the high power, to make sure your air circulates well.

    What makes it stand out?
  • The night light is a great bonus feature
  • Doesn’t produce ozone
  • Very quiet, especially at its lowest fan setting
    Which disadvantages must you keep in mind?
  • Larger than other products on list, and a bit bulkier
Also Product Ranking:
See more...

?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 5440 people in the past 30 days
8.9
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.6
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.4
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.4
8.9
Features
  • Filters type: pre-filter; HEPA filter; carbon filter
  • Fan speeds: 2
  • Coverage area: up to 50 sq. ft.
  • Dimensions: 6.7 x 6.7 x 7.5 inches
  • Warranty: 2-year limited; plus, extra 6-month after registration

More features: filter change indicator; a 360-degree air inlet

The TRUSTECH 3-in-1 Air Purifier might look small, but it still packs quite the punch when it comes to air purification. It is the most compact machine on our list, and its small size does result in a much smaller coverage area than the other purifiers. 50 square feet is equivalent to a tiny bedroom, so if you want an air purifier for a larger living room, you will need to look elsewhere. However, for those that just need to cover a small size, say around your desk in the office, then the hOmeLabs 3-in-1 Compact Air Purifier is the perfect option and the best small room air purifier.

It has a HEPA air purifier that removes 99% of indoor pollutants. This includes pollen, dust, smoke, mold, and even pet dander. If you find it a bit hard to breathe in your home, or you just can’t get rid of some pesky odors, then now is the right time to purchase a new air purifier.

The filtering system of the TRUSTECH 3-in-1 Air Purifier goes in four stages. There is a pre-filter to capture larger air particles, and then the filter system which traps even the smallest of irritants. Just because you can’t see what’s in your air, doesn’t mean the filters won’t catch it.

What’s really nice about the TRUSTECH 3-in-1 Air Purifier is its size. Because it is rather small, it can fit on top of a desk or bookcase. It can hide amongst your décor and still do its job. You can even take this small air purifier with you when you travel. Just because you’re in a hotel room, doesn’t mean you can’t take the benefits of clean air with you.

    What are our favorite features?
  • Compact enough to travel with
  • Filter removes bacteria and odors from air
  • 2-year warranty is more extended than other similar products
    What could be better?
  • Only works in a very small space


Things to Consider

Before you commit to your next purchase of a small air purifier, it’s essential to have as much information as possible. In addition to the product reviews, we’ve also included details about the types of features to look for. We’ve also given you some information to keep your air purifier lasting as long and productive as possible.

How can an air purifier improve your life quality?

If you find yourself coughing a lot, have irritated sinuses, or even find it hard to catch your breath, then your air quality might be suffering. Air purifiers help to remove unwanted particles from the air, allowing us to breathe easier. In fact, you might not even be aware of how bad your air quality is, until you try an air purifier in your home.

Many users of air purifiers were shocked to discover how much fresher the air in their home was, after they started using the product. Sometimes you just don’t realize what can improve in your home, until you make a change.

Features to consider while choosing a small air purifier

Best Small Air PurifierTo help you purchase your next small air purifier, here is a list of important features to consider.

Type of filters

There are many types of filters for air purifiers and the important thing to remember is that you need to buy specific replacements for each different model. Typically speaking, filters need to be changed at least once a month. If you live in a smokier environment or have a few pets in the home, then you might want to change the filter every six months.

Most filters use HEPA technology which traps air pollutants such as pollen, mold, dust, and pet hair. Some filters, like with the Hamilton Beach 04384, are permanent and don’t need to be replaced. You can clean the filter and then reinsert it back into the machine. This can save quite a lot of money each year.

Fan speeds

Air purifiers rely on a fan to distribute the clean, filtered air into your room. The larger the fan speed, the quicker the air is circulated. Almost of the products on our list, including the GermGuardian AC4100 and the Blue Pure 411 have three fan speeds. Having different fan speeds allows you more control over your air purifier.

Fan speed also impacts noise levels. For those that want a quieter air purifier, you will want to keep your machine on the lowest fan setting.

CADR level

CADR stands for Clean Air Delivery Rate. It is measured in cubic feet per minute and refers to how much air has been filtered over one minute of time. The higher the CADR level, the more powerful the air purifier is.

If you and your family have allergies or any sort of breathing issues, you will want to invest in an air purifier with a higher CADR level, so that you can rest assure the air is cleaned quickly, and your health will not be impacted by what you breathe in.

Coverage area

The coverage area of an air purifier basically means how large of a room the machine will function well in, or in some cases, if you are looking for an air purifier for a car, how large your car is. If the area is too large, then the clean air will continually be mixed with unfiltered air, negating the effects of an air purifier. Coverage area is a significant specification to consider with your purchase.

If you just need an air purifier for a bedroom, all the items on our list will work fine. If, however, you have an apartment or even an open-concept living area, then you will need an air purifier with a large coverage area.

Noise level

The amount of noise that a small air purifier gives is vital to take into consideration. For those that are more noise sensitive, and like an ultra-quiet home, find an air purifier that is whisper-quiet; otherwise, you could start to become irritated by the loud sound very soon. It’s also a good idea to think about if you will be running your air purifier at night. While some people like a bit of white noise when they fall asleep, others need absolute quiet. Most air purifiers will run between 17 and 50 decibels.

If you are worried about the noise level, look for a small air purifier that has multiple fan settings. The lower the setting, the less noise your air purifier will make. So, you can run the machine on a low speed at night for quiet, and a high setting during the day when noise isn’t so important.

Dimensions

Best Small Air PurifierWhile all of the air purifiers on our list fall into the category of small appliances, each will vary. The TRUSTECH 3-in-1 Air Purifier is the most compact on our list, measuring 6.7 x 6.7 x 7.5 inches, but even being such a small unit it one of the best air purifiers for mold. Conversely, the LEVOIT LV-H132 is the largest and measures at 32 x 19 x 19 inches. Before you purchase an air purifier, think about where in your home you want to place it. Then, measure that space. There’s nothing worse than buying a new air purifier, only to discover that it doesn’t fit in the spot you planned for. But if you want to check other models as well, it is highly advisable to take a look at Therapure air purifiers, which also offer different smaller units.

Warranty

The standard warranty for an air purifier is between one and two years. This is adequate and you probably don’t need to consider an extended guarantee on any product. If any issues should arise, be sure to contact the manufacturer as soon as possible. Sometimes it can take a while to resolve an issue, and if you’re nearing the end of your warranty, you will want to make sure a new part of the product is shipped to you before the coverage runs out.

Extra features

Small air purifiers vary in type. Some are basic, budget-friendly options, while others come with more high-end features.

A remote control is a nice option, as it allows you to change settings without having to always get up. A timer allows you to set your air purifier, which is perfect if you are worried about your electricity bill. There are also some models that have light features. The LEVOIT LV-H132, for example, has a night light function. There are two brightness settings and it emits a calming sound that can help create a sense of comfort for any child, or adult.

Tips to maintain your air purifier

Best Small Air Purifier
You want your air purifier to last a long time, and keep working well. To begin with, place your air purifier somewhere that it has a lot of space. You don’t want anything to touch its sides. This impacts that air flow and can also make it heat up faster, pushing the internal motor harder than it should be.

The windows and doors of your home should be closed, so as to prevent unwanted air particles to enter the home. Too much dust and pollen, and no air purifier will be able to combat it. If you are using an air purifier in a bedroom, try to keep that door closed as much as possible, too. If an air purifier can only work in a small setting, then having the door open will create too much air space for it to filter.

Finally, the best way to maintain your air purifier is to change its filters regularly. This can start to be a bit costly, but there’s no point in having an air purifier if its filters are clogged and can’t work properly. You should clean or replace your filter at least once a year. Some air purifiers, like the TRUSTECH 3-in-1 Air Purifier, will have a light indicator to remind you. If not, pick a date that you won’t forget, such as the start of spring, for spring cleaning.

FAQ

What CADR should I look for if I want to use my air purifier in a small room?

It’s hard to say precisely what CADR level you should look for, as all air quality starts out differently. If you only intend to use your device in a small space, the CADR level shouldn’t be too much of an issue for you. Compact purifiers have similar characteristics in this sense, and will all clean the air in your room within practically the same time period.

Do these devices also reduce odors?

Bacteria often cause odors in the air. Because air purifiers help trap bacteria, they will also eliminate odors. However, the best way to get rid of any unwanted odors in your home is to look for the root source and tackle it directly. If you live with a smoker or have a few pets running around, no doubt you’ve become immune to the smell they bring. But after just a few days with an air purifier, you’ll notice the difference in air quality. It will also make you wonder why you didn’t try an air purifier earlier.

Should an air purifier run constantly or I need to turn it off from time to time?

Ideally, you should run an air purifier for the entire day. This is because new air is continuously being added to the filtered air, which can negate the machine’s efforts. Naturally, no matter how efficient your air purifier is, this can result in a spike in your electricity bill. You may want to consider where the best place for your air purifier is. If it’s in a child’s room and you don’t want to leave it on all day, be sure to close the door to keep as much the filtered air in as possible.

Our verdict

Hopefully, the search for your next air purifier is nearing an end. Our top pick is the Hamilton Beach 04384. It works well against all air pollutants, and as an added bonus, can lay on its side or standing up. Users agree that this is one of the best small air purifiers on the market.

If you suffer from allergies, then a fantastic option is the GermGuardian AC4100. Not only does it work against common airborne pollutants like mold and pet dander, but its light technology can also fight viruses. For those wanting to avoid catching an illness from a family member, or those heavily allergic to plant pollen or smoke, this is worth checking out. And if you like this model you can read even more specific GermGuardian AC4100 review just by clicking the link.

Finally, the best small air purifier that also looks good is the Blue Pure 411. Its stylish design makes it look sophisticated and contemporary. It works well and can blend seamlessly into any décor. So, the next time you take a deep breath, you can smile, knowing the air you breathe in is as pure as possible.

9,8
Total Score
Hamilton Beach TrueAir Air Purifier (04384) - Editor’s Choice
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