Air purifiers are vital products for many people, because for them, clean air isn't something to take for granted. People living with asthma, allergies and pets often turn to air purifiers to make life more comfortable and create a better environment.

The newest generation of air purifiers uses specialized filters to tackle problem odors and chemicals. Look for air purifiers that use activated carbon-blend filters to trap odors and gases. We've also tested an air purifier that uses silver ions to kill the DNA in airborne bacteria and viruses. Today, even the smallest air purifiers pack a punch; many diminutive models can clear the same square-feet area as larger, bulkier air purifiers. The air purifiers we've selected as the "best of the best" range in price from $300 to $800, and many offer nearly identical features and performance.

IQAir HealthPro Plus Air Purifier
IQAir HealthPro Plus Air Purifier


IQAir HealthPro Plus Air Purifier

The IQAir HealthPro Plus has one of the most effective filtering systems we've tested. It has three filters, including the V5 Cell, which uses a five-chamber filtration method. Each chamber has activated carbon and aluminum to trap odors and gases. Plus, the V5 Cell will only need to be replaced every 12 to 24 months. And, unlike some air purifiers that simply remove obvious particles and odors, the IQAir HealthPro Plus is a master of subtlety. It can absorb more than 200 gases and odors from the air, including tricky pollutants such as dust mites and paint fumes. It runs quietly and is effective in rooms up to 900 square feet. We love the IQAir HealthPro Plus's remote control. It gives us the option of fine-tuning the IQAir's noise or cleaning levels. At 35 pounds, don't expect the IQAir HealthPro Plus to be a wallflower, but we think that's a small price to pay for its exceptional performance.


Blueair 601 Air Purifier

The Blueair 601 air purifier is a welcome addition to the home or office of allergy sufferers. This HEPA-type air filter is a hard worker, making six air changes per hour, and it effectively clears rooms up to 679 square feet. The Blueair 601 runs quietly on its first three operating speeds; it isn't until it hits the fourth (and highest) speed that the noise is detectible. And, unlike some air purifiers that make you want to turn up your collar against the drafts they create, the Blueair 601 efficiently exchanges air without creating a breeze. Keep in mind that the filter must be replaced every six months to keep the warranty in effect, and this expense should be factored into one's budget. Something worth noting: The Blueair 601 Air Purifier has a SmokeStop filter option, but this is not included in the standard package -- it costs about $70 more.


Austin Air HealthMate HM-200 Jr. Air Purifier

The Austin Air HealthMate HM-200 Jr. HEPA air purifier packs the power of a full-size model in a petite package. Based on the full sized HM-400, the HM-200 Jr. uses three filters to clean the air: a pre-filter, an activated carbon filter and a HEPA filter. It weighs just 18 pounds, yet it can clear rooms up to 700 square feet, which we find is an impressive accomplishment given this air purifier's small size. The Austin Air HealthMate HM-200 is portable enough to take to the office, or to move throughout one's home. It has three operating speeds and runs quietly on each speed. For people with severe chemical sensitivities, the HM-200 has the option of using a specialized filter (not included with the standard model). Overall, the Austin Air HealthMate HM-200 Jr. Air Purifier is a solid performer.

Austin Air HealthMate HM-200 Jr. Air Purifier
Austin Air HealthMate HM-200 Jr. Air Purifier


Alen A350 Air Purifier

The Alen A350 air purifier specializes in clearing pollen, mold, dust and other allergens from the air. What really sets this air purifier apart, however, is that it can be used as a wall-mounted unit (it is a slim 8-1/5-inches wide). This is a handy option for people in small spaces, such as offices or apartments. The Alen A350 uses a filter that is a combination of three types -- HEPA, carbon and pre-filter -- so there's only one filter to replace. Plus, it's one of the lowest-priced filters we've found (about $40), so it won't cost a fortune to replace it every six months. The Alen A350 has four speed settings, but we especially love its 12-hour timer that automatically shuts the unit off. Although the Alen A350 can clear spaces up to 800 square feet, the manufacturer recommends using it in rooms about half that size for maximum efficiency.