In this article, we will look at the best air purifier under 100 dollars, as these devices are getting higher demands nowadays.
Let’s face it, never has been a better time to worry about the quality of the air in our homes and workplaces. From viruses to wildfires, air quality has a knock-on effect on our health.
There is no doubt that an air purifier is worth the money. But do you need a device that costs hundreds?
In a hurry? Here’s our best tip:
The Levoit Core 300 is the best performer here. Highly effective even in big rooms, it is also very quiet, which is a big plus for the device.
The Mooka B-D02L offers the most affordable air purifier, although it is powerful enough to perform 6 air purification cycles in a 215 sq ft room in 1 hour, being an awesome choice if you’re on a tight budget.
Table of Contents
- Best air purifier under 100 dollars
- What is an air purifier?
- Why buy an air purifier for under $100?
- Buying Guide
- Frequently Asked Questions – FAQs
- Wrap Up
Best air purifier under 100 dollars
We have 8 budget air purifiers to compare today. We will look at all of their specifications and highlight some of their most important air filter aspects. We will follow up with some pros and cons of each.
In the table below you’ll find different branding and specifications. If you want to know the price of the product, just click on the images and find them on Amazon:
| Best air purifier under 100 dollars | Filtration | Coverage Area | Speed Settings |
|---|---|---|---|
 
| 3 stages including True HEPA filter | 219 sq ft | 3 + Sleep mode |
 
| 4 levels of filtration | 742 sq ft (AHAM verified up to 153 sq ft) | 3 |
 
| 3 stages including True HEPA filter | 129 sq ft | 3 |
 
| 3 stages including True HEPA filter | 1800 sq ft | 3 + Auto mode |
 
| 5 levels of filtration | 743 sq ft (AHAM verified up to 153 sq ft) | 3 |
 
| 3 stages including True HEPA filter | 430 sq ft | 3 + Sleep mode |
 
| 3 stages with dual side H13 HEPA filters | 161 sq ft | 3 |
 
| 3 stages with H13 HEPA filters | 376 sq ft | 3 + Sleep mode |
Levoit Core 300
Click the image to check current price on Amazon!
Key features
- Removes 99.97% of airborne pollutants
- UV-C light free
- Near silent sleep mode
- 360º air filtration
There are 2 color options with this purifier, the white is just under $100 but the black is a little more. They are 8.7 inches in diameter and 16.25 inches high. VortexAir Technology means air filtration occurs at 360º. Levoit air purifiers don’t use UV-C light, so there is no harm to the ozone.
It offers 3 stages of filtration. The first is a pre-filter for dust mites, fibers, and pet dander. The second is a True HEPA filter capturing fine dust, mold spores, and smoke particles. The third is an activated carbon filter for smoke, unpleasant odors, and volatile organic compounds. The purifier captures 99.97% of airborne particles as small as 0.3 microns.
This air purifier is ideal for room sizes up to 219 square feet. It has 3-speed settings and a sleep mode. On sleep mode, it is only 24dB. You can also turn the display lights off to sleep better. The display has a timer you can set for either 2, 4, 6, or 8 hours.
There is an air filter change indicator too. Apart from the original HEPA filter replacement, you can choose a True HEPA 3-stage pet allergy filter or a True HEPA 3-stage toxin absorber filter.
Pros:
- Perfect size for bedrooms and living rooms
- Air quality is noticeably better after little use
- It is as quiet as advertised
Cons:
- The purifier lets off a strong plastic smell at first
Germ Guardian AC4825E
Click the image to check current price on Amazon!
Key features
- Removes 99.97% of airborne particles
- 4 levels of air purification
- American based brand
- 3-year warranty
This is a very modern-looking HEPA air purifier with a blue LED stripe around the top. Both the black and white purifiers are under $100. It measures 10.25 x 6.75 x 21.5 inches. On top of the purifier, there is an easy-to-use display.
The air cleaner works in 4 stages. The first pre-filter and charcoal filter capture larger particles like pet hair and dust particles. It will also absorb odors.
The True HEPA is for dust mites, pollen, and pet dander. Finally, the UV-C light kills germs and viruses. It works with Titanium dioxide to reduce volatile organic compounds.
There are 3-speed settings. The lowest produces a white noise effect for sleeping. The smoke CADR rating of 99 is a little lower than we would like but for a 153-square-foot room, it performs 4.8 cleans per hour.
For a 743 sq. ft. room, it will perform 1 air filtration cycle. There are LED indicators for the filters and UV-C light bulbs.
Pros:
- The air cleaner works very well on cooking smells
- The replacement filters are good value
- The purifier is well-built and durable
Cons:
- Not as quiet as other cheap air purifiers
Levoit LV-H132
Click the image to check current price on Amazon!
Key features
- Captures 99.97% of airborne particles
- High-efficiency activated carbon filter
- Adjustable night light
- 4 air filtration cycles per hour
This is a smaller Levoit Air Purifier at 7.9 x 12.6 inches. The black and white purifiers are the same price and cheaper than the first Levoit air purifier we looked at. It is incredibly easy to use with touch buttons on the top.
The device comes with a pre-filter that can be washed off with water, a True HEPA filter and a high-efficiency activated carbon filter. Between these air filters, they will capture pet dander, smoke particles, unpleasant odors, pollen, and large and fine dust.
It will capture 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns. The HEPA air purifier reduces dangerous air pollutants like volatile organic compounds too.
The compact size of this budget air purifier makes it good for smaller rooms up to 129 square feet. The speed settings range from 25dB to 46dB. Plus, the adjustable light makes it perfect for bedroom use.
The air filter replacement light comes on after 6 to 8 months, depending on the air quality and use.
Pros:
- Amazing difference in indoor air quality
- It’s a very easy air cleaner to use
- Nice small design but still effective
Cons:
- There have been some concerns with EMF (electromotive force) readings
Colzer EPI-186
Click the image to check current price on Amazon!
Key features
- Removes 99.9% of airborne particles
- A complete air filtration cycle in 90 mins of 900 sq ft room
- Just 23dB on a low-speed setting
- Smart sensors and auto mode
Considering the 1800 sq ft coverage area, this air cleaner is still a compact size at 6 x 12.2 x 18.3 inches. It is white and has a concealed display panel to add to the aesthetics. In an 1800 sq ft room, it takes one hour for a complete air filter cycle. In a 300 sq ft room, it’s just 10 minutes.
Like many air purifiers, this has a pre-filter, a True HEPA filter, and an activated carbon filter. The pre-filter alone captures particles over 0.2mm. The purifier captures pet hair and dander, lint, dust, smoke, pollen, and absorbs odors.
It is great to see a budget air purifier with auto mode. The smart sensors detect indoor air quality and adjust the fan speed accordingly. The light indicators change from green, yellow, and red so you can tell the air quality just by looking at it.
You also have a timer for up to 8 hours and sleep mode at just 23dB. The touch panel display can be turned off, so the light doesn’t disturb your sleep.
Pros:
- Asthma suffers are able to breathe a lot more easily
- Good air purifier for areas of wildfires
- Excellent air filtration and super quiet
Cons:
- Some people have found it difficult to find replacement filters
Germ Guardian AC4300BPTCA
Click the image to check current price on Amazon!
Key features
- Captures 99.97% of airborne particles
- Kills airborne contaminants such as influenza, staph, and rhinovirus
- A-rated purifier for cigarette smoke
- 1-hour air purification cycle in a 743 sq ft room
The second Germ Guardian purifier is equally pleasing to look at. It has a sleek, black design and measures 8.88 x 6.38 x 22 inches. You can also choose this purifier in white.
A room of 153 sq ft will have 4 complete air filter cycles in 1 hour. For 371 sq ft, your indoor air will be cleaned twice per hour.
This air purifier has 5 functions, it will kill germs, filter odors (especially cigarette smoke), and trap allergens. It also has a UV light for crisp air and anti-microbial PetPure treatment to get rid of pet odors.
This happens thanks to the charcoal filter, pre-filter, and electrostatic HEPA filter. 99.97% of airborne contaminants like pet dander, mold spores, and pollen as small as 0.3 microns are captured. It also works on reducing volatile organic compounds.
The digital display shows you when it’s time for a replacement filter. You can also switch between the 3-speed settings. It is advertised as an ultra-quiet purifier. On the low setting, it’s 40dB, so not as quiet as others.
Pros:
- A major difference in air quality in a short period
- Helps those with allergen problems
- You can turn the UV light off
Cons:
- The quality control isn’t as good as previous Germ Guardian purifiers
Mooka B-D02L
Click the image to check current price on Amazon!
Key features
- Ultra-quiet brushless motor
- 3 air filter cycles in 1 hour in a 430 sq ft room
- H13 True HEPA filter
- Child lock for safety
So far, the Mooka purifier is the most affordable air purifier on the list. It is small at 7.7 inches in diameter and 15.1 inches in height. But it is powerful enough to perform 6 air purification cycles in a 215 sq ft room in 1 hour. It is white and indoor air is taken in at 360º.
There are three filters. The first is a fine pre-filter, the second an H13 True HEPA filter, and finally an activated carbon filter. The percentage of airborne pollutants captured isn’t stated, nor is the CADR rating.
However, it will capture air pollutants as small as 0.3 microns including wildfire and cigarette smoke, dust, pollen, unpleasant odors, and pet dander.
The simple display panel on this HEPA filter purifier lets you choose from 3-speed settings. There is an additional sleep mode and thanks to the brushless motor, it’s just 20dB. There is a timer that you can set for 1, 2, 4, or 8 hours. We like the child lock to prevent accidentally switching the settings.
Pros:
- Even in the low-speed setting, the air quality is much better
- The lights turn off in sleep mode
- Perfect for allergen suffers and smoke particles
Cons:
- You have to remember to remove the plastic from the HEPA filter before use or the air cleaner won’t work
Levoit LV-H128
Click the image to check current price on Amazon!
Key features
- Captures 99.97% of airborne particles
- Add your aromatherapy essential oils
- Desktop-sized air purifier
- One-touch operation
This 6.69 x 10.43 air purifier is perfect for homes and offices up to 161 sq feet. It comes in white, but it is also nice to see a blue option if you are looking for an air cleaner that isn’t the typical black or white.
It takes 30 minutes for air purification in this size room. It’s great that you can add essential oils to really improve the smell of your home.
The 3-stage filtration is the same as what we have seen before. You have a fine pre-filter, H13 True HEPA filter and the final filter is activated carbon.
What is unique is that this air purifier has dual air filtration. Naturally, it will do a better job at air filtration but bear this in mind when it comes to replacement filters. On the other hand, it’s the most affordable air purifier on the list.
Many of the other features are the same as the other Levoit air purifiers. It’s whisper-quiet, on the lowest speed setting it is only 28dB. The light will also auto switch off for nighttime use. It is handy that the purifier can be controlled with just one button.
Pros:
- The air purifier moves a lot of air
- Excellent filtration of airborne allergens
- All speed settings are relatively quiet
Cons:
- Would like to see better air quality for the dual filtration
Levoit Core 200S
Click the image to check current price on Amazon!
Key features
- Captures 99.97% of airborne particles
- 5 air filtration cycles in 1 hour for a 183 sq ft room
- Improved carbon filter and pre-filter
- Voice and app activated
The Core 200S air purifier has all the features a tech-savvy person would hope for as well as design and function. It’s 8.07 x 12.6 inches and comes in white. The 360º filtration helps the air filter cycle. For larger rooms of 376 sq ft, there are 2 complete air purification cycles.
The HEPA filter is the H13. The pre-filter is an improved ultra-fine nylon filter, and the activated carbon is high efficiency. The air cleaner will remove dust, pollen, mold spores, and pet dander. As with the other Levoit air purifiers, it is quiet at 24dB, and the lights can be turned off.
If you have an Alexa, you can control this purifier with your voice. Alternatively, you can download the app. From the VeSync app, you can change the speed settings, and the light, and set the timer. Having this technology is impressive for a cheap air purifier.
Pros:
- The app shows you when you need replacement filters
- The purifier was set up and the connection was easy
- It does a good job on various unpleasant odors
Cons:
- The sleep mode with this air cleaner could be better
What is an air purifier?
Air purifiers take in indoor air, pass the air through a filtration system and then release clean air. The process removes various airborne particles, pet dander, smoke particles, and even unpleasant odors.
This air purification is essential for those who suffer from headaches, allergies, and coughs.
There are many different filtration systems. Some include True HEPA filters, carbon filters, and the newer activated carbon filters. Some of the important features to look for are the filtration system, coverage area, and CADR ratings (Clean Air Delivery Rate).
Why buy an air purifier for under $100?
The first reason is your health. Air pollutants, viruses, and smoke particles can cause harm to your lungs and make medical conditions like asthma much worse.
We used to be able to ventilate our homes by opening the windows, but this is often not enough today. Depending on where you live, opening the window might make your indoor air quality worse.
As long as your air purifier has the appropriate air filtration for your home, there is no need to spend more than $100 on an air cleaner.
Buying Guide
The first thing to consider is filtration. We would almost always recommend a HEPA air purifier as they are so good at removing a higher percentage of smaller airborne particles.
Whether you choose a carbon filter, or an activated carbon filter will depend on the odors you are hoping to remove.
The noise is relevant, especially if you are going to use the air cleaner in your bedroom. Most of these air purifiers are extremely quiet on the lower speed settings but of course, there will still be some noise.
When air purifier companies list the number of air filtration cycles per hour, know that this is when the air cleaners are on the highest settings.
As cheap air purifiers, our list of 8 all come between $49 and $99. Considering they offer multiple speed settings, descent CADR ratings, and high-quality HEPA filters, they are excellent value for money. Germ Guardian has the edge on design but Levoit creeps ahead with air quality.
Frequently Asked Questions – FAQs
What is special about a HEPA filter?
HEPA filters are excellent for removing allergens, dust mites, pollen, and mold to improve air quality. Their pleated design makes them great for capturing nanoparticles. In some cases, HEPA filters are washable or can be vacuumed and reused.
How do I know if the air cleaner is actually working?
A good trick to check if the air purifier is working is to hold a flashlight up next to it. The light will pick up on dust and dander and you will see if it is moving towards the purifier.
What’s the difference between an activated charcoal filter, a carbon filter, and an activated carbon filter?
An activated charcoal filter and an activated carbon filter are the same things. Some believe the activated carbon filter to be slightly better than the activated charcoal filter. Activated carbon is processed carbon so that the pores are small and low in volume.
There is a greater surface area with activated carbon filters and better absorption. Generally speaking, it’s best to choose activated charcoal or activated carbon filters.
Is a UV-C light bad for the environment?
There is a potential for ozone to be released into the environment. It’s a personal choice whether or not you choose this type of air purifier. On the positive, there are more efficient at killing harmful airborne particles such as germs and viruses.
Wrap Up
Air quality and the filtration of airborne particles are not something to be taken lightly. Today, cheap air purifiers show remarkable differences in air quality, and they are most definitely worth the money.
All of our best air purifiers under $100 will make a difference to your home. Make sure you choose one that first has the right coverage area and then the design that appeals most to you.
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