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Best Air Purifier Under 100 – Top 5 Reviewed [2021]

A healthy home ensures a healthy life. If you want to enjoy a good life with good health you must take care of your home environment. To maintain the home environment properly, a good quality air purifier helps you a lot. An air purifier can easily monitor the quality of your home air. It can purify the air in several ways. There are various types of filtration and speed options available when choosing the air purifiers. Therefore, it’s hard to decide when choosing a good one for you. With intense research, in this article, we will discuss some effective, popular, budget-friendly and space-saving air purifiers that cost under 100 dollars. We will also highlight the pros and cons so that you can compare and choose the best one for you.

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Top 5 air purifier 2020 [Best under 100]

Considering important features, efficiency, popularity and users’ opinion, below is the shortlist of our top 5 budget air purifiers.

  1. Levoit Air Purifier LV-H123
  2. GermGuardian AC4825
  3. Hamilton Beach TrueAir Air Purifier
  4. MOOKA Air Purifier
  5. Holmes air purifier HAP243

Levoit Air Purifier LV-H123

Levoit air purifier LV-H123 is the most popular air purifier in the world in the low price category. Its compact size, user-friendly operating system, and well-set look just won people’s hearts. A survey has been executed among 1000 Levoit users on why they use the Levoit air purifier. Most of them said that they trust the Levoit label. Therefore, people try Levoit LV-H123 because they trust the brand. If you have no time to study, I suggest you get Levoit LV-H123 without a second thought.

Filter quality

This Levoit H123 model comes with a 3 in 1 filtration system. A true HEPA filter is included in it. On top of that, it contains a good quality carbon activated filter and a washable pre-filter. The charming point of this filtration system is the pre-filter. You can easily open and clean it. Therefore, the other filters sustain for a long time.

Smart option

This budget-friendly Levoit H123 has two bonus smart options – a beautiful blue nightlight and automatic filter replacement indicator.

Efficiency

Its high-quality air purification system and super silent noise level have made it the top budget air purifier. High customer satisfaction proves its efficiency.

At a glance

NameLevoit Air Purifier LV-H123
Product dimension8.5 x 8.5 x 14.5 inches
Product weight6.61 pounds
Coverage area≤ 129 ft² (12 m²),
Power supply AC 120V/ 60 Hz.
Filtration system3 in 1.  true HEPA filter + fine preliminary filter + activated carbon filter
Noise level ≤ 50dB, super quiet
Made inUSA
Pros
  • Three-stage filtration system
  • Energy efficient
  • Washable pre-filter
  • Low noise level
  • Easy to operate
  • Nice smart option
  • Compact in size
  • Charming elegant look
  • Low charge filter replacement
  • Long life span
  • Ozone free
  • Can set a timer
Cons
  • Short warranty periods
  • Only can cover up to 165 sq. feet.

What users say?

Christian, a user of Levoit LV-H123 told that this model is seriously good. It keeps her home atmosphere clean and odor-free. Very quiet in low-speed operation but beefy at high speed. Surely effective for any breathing difficulty, moderately works to eliminate smoke.

Expert’s opinion

Overall survey and study find Levoit Air Purifier LV-H123 as a good option for a budget air purifier lover. Most of the customers love Levoit products. Although the LV-H123 model is for very small space, for a larger coverage you can try the upgraded model Levoit Air Purifier Core 300.

GermGuardian AC4825

Germ Guardian True HEPA Filter Air Purifier can be an excellent choice to filter Allergies, Pollen, smoke, dust, pet odor, mold, and even germs. Its sleek design and extraordinary performance will certainly win your heart. It’s also verified with AHAM tests. It is also Energy Star Certified & Carb Compliant. It’s able to remove different kinds of floating chemicals.

Filter quality

GermGuardian AC4825 air purifier contains four types of filtration systems. A carbon filter with a pre-filter which can catch big particle. A true HEPA filter and UV-C lights. HEPA filter kills 99.97 % of harmful germs and other floating particles as small as 0.3 microns. UV-C lights help reduce airborne bacteria, viruses, and microbes such as influenza, rhinovirus, etc. Pre-filters trap primary dust, pet hairs and other kinds of large particles and help expand the life of other filters. Activated charcoal filters remove the unwanted odor from the air and keep your home environment pure and fresh.

Smart option

There is only one smart option comes with this model. It has an indicator for the replacement alert of the filters.

Efficiency

Its CADR (clean air delivery rate) is dust-118, pollen-125, and smoke-108. Therefore, it shows that this unit is quite efficient. This product is also AHAM certified. Because it comes with a UV-C Lights filter, it’s very effective for asthma and allergy patients.

At a glance

NameGermGuardian AC4825
Product dimension9 x 5.5 x 21.5 inches
Product weight7 ponds
Coverage area up to 167 sq. feet
Power supplyAC 120 V
Filtration system4 filter; a true HEPA filter, a carbon filter, and UV-C light filter and a pre-filter
Noise levelSuper quiet in lower mode (42.5 Db) but harsh on higher mode
Made inUSA

 

Pros
  • Covers a big area up to 165 sq. feet.
  • Eye-catchy design
  • Various filtration system
  • A long warranty period of up to 3 years (terms and conditions apply)
  • Energy efficient
  • Prevent airborne germs
  • Recommended for asthma and allergy patient
  • AHAM verified
  • Certified by Energy Star and compliance with California CARB rules and regulation
Cons
  • Moderately big in size
  • Very harsh on high speed

What users say?

Rosely, a consumer of this product told that GermGuardian AC4825 had been quite perfect for the price ………….…it helped improve her allergy and asthma…………… Removed the bad smells immediately and she just surprised. The highest setting is a little bit loud but she didn’t know why. She liked this white sound. Unconditionally it’s the best and she felt more maintained.

Expert’s opinion

GermGuardian AC4825 air purifier is a very efficient and highly performed model. It’s quite popular too. It takes care to emit many kinds of airborne microbes such as mold, bacteria even virus. But the concern is the UV-C Light filter. Excessive use of UVC-Light can be harmful to you. UV-C Lights can damage the skin or eye cornea.

Hamilton Beach TrueAir Air Purifier

Do you want a super affordable hassle-free and basic air purifier? Hamilton Beach TrueAir Air Purifier can be a good option for you. Most of the purifiers available in markets contain temporary air filter but Hamilton Beach TrueAir Purifier contains a permanent HEPA grade filter. When you think about cleaning the filter, just vacuum it. This model also has an activated carbon filter and a pre-filter. You can use it vertically and horizontally- both the ways.

Filter Quality

Hamilton Beach TrueAir Air Purifier comes with three different types of filters. It contains permanent HEPA grade filter which can easily catch 99.99% of dust, pollen and unwanted floating particles as small as 2 microns. Replaceable carbon zeolite filter absorbs pet odor and stinky household flavor and smoke. For larger particle and pet hair, a pre-filter is also there.

Smart Option

No smart feature available in this model.

Efficiency

This model is perfect as a basic model. It has an ultra-quiet motor with a three-speed operation. For quick and heavy cleaning, set the high mode. Select a medium setting for general cleaning and low mode when you need a super calm environment.

 At a glance

NameHamilton Beach TrueAir Air Purifier
Product dimension10.8 x 8.1 x 16.4 inches
Product weight6.3 pounds
Coverage area140 Square Feet
Power supplyAC 120 V
Filtration system3 filter. A pre-filter, carbon filter, and permanent HEPA grade filter
Noise levelUltra-quite motor
Made inUSA

 

Pros
  • Quiet operation
  • Permanent HEPA grade filter
  • 2 carbon filters for bad odor
  • Low cost in the long run
  • Can be used vertically and horizontally
  • Compact in size
  • Stylish in design
  • Easy to use
Cons
  • No smart option
  • Permanent HEPA grade filter can be cleaned only by vacuum and is not washable

What users say?

S. jay, a user said that he was very pleased with this model. He just bought another two of them. This unit is very good for his pet’s dander and odor. It gives him a feeling that he has no pets though he has 3 dogs and 2 cats. It also emits his next-door smoke smell.

Expert’s opinion

If you only want a basic air purifier then Hamilton Beach TrueAir Air Purifier is unconditionally perfect. A permanent HEPA grade filter makes it unique. But you should keep an eye on the filter because there is no replacement indicator. It also not recommended for the extra sensitive patient.

MOOKA Air Purifier

If you want a super-compact, highly affordable and comfortably portable air purifier, MOOKA Air Purifier can be your right choice. Because of its compact size, you can use it anywhere you want such as the bedroom, small office room even in the car. Simply keep it as a decorative piece.

Filter types

MOOKA air purifier comes with 3 types of filtration systems. True HEPA air filter, activated carbon filter and pre-filter. True HEPA filter removes 99.97% dust, mold and pet dander as tiny as 0.3 microns from the air. Activated carbon filter removes bad odor and smoke and makes the air fresh. Finally, the pre-filter catches comparatively big unwanted floating particles from the air.

Smart Option

This compact model has a charming nightlight option.

Efficiency

Comparing the cost of this unit (>50$), it will provide more efficiency. This product is as good as you want. Its three-stage filtration system, 360o air circulation process, and the less noisy moderate motor are just perfect.

At a Glance

NameMOOKA Air Purifier
Product dimension7.5 x 6.9 x 6.9 inches
Product weight3 pounds
Coverage areaSmall room
Power supplyAC 110V
Filtration system3 in one pre-filter, HEPA filter, an activated carbon filter
Noise level >35dB (Quiet Mode)
Made inUSA
Pros
  • 360o air circulation system
  • High portability
  • Very low energy consumption
  • True HEPA filter
  • Multiple filtration system
  • Very quiet operation
  • Easy to operate
  • Minimalist design- anywhere to fit
  • 100% Ozone free
  • Two smart option
Cons
  • Can’t turn off the LED light when it works
  • Cover very small space

What users say?

S.Saam, a user said that this product passed 3 months, and he loves it!!! Now his air is fresh and clean. Very good for a small room. Gives a noticeable difference around the room. He is very air pollution sensitive, now feels better with it and can’t sleep without it.

Expert’s opinion

Very good for basic needs. Lightweight and compact size increase the portability. But for the moderately sensitive body, try to keep it in a safe zone and don’t shake it hard. Another concern is the nightlight. Although the light is cool and fine it can’t be turned off when the purifier is running. I suggest, if you feel disgusted just remove it out of the machine (you can learn it from YouTube)

Holmes air purifier HAP242

If you search a super economical, compact, handy ionizer air purifier then Holmes air purifier HAP242 is the best option for you. Its dual position and three-speed settings made it more efficient. The main turning point is that it comes with an optional ionizer. You can turn the ionizer on/off as per your wish.

Filter type

Holmes air purifier HAP242 has 3 types of filtration systems. The first one is a washable pre-filter which can trap comparatively large particles such as pet’s dander. It also helps increase the life span of other filters present in this unit. The second and the most important one is the HEPA type filter. It can filter 99% of unwanted airborne particles such as pollen, dust, mold, pet dander, and so on as small as 2 microns. The final one is a carbon filter which helps remove bad odor, smoke odor and so on. It makes the air fresh and pure. Ionizer light can significantly improve the efficiency of the purifier. Don’t worry. It’s optional, so you can operate it as per your needs.

Smart option

No smart option is available, but the optional ionizer light and its operating button could be an extra function.

Efficiency

Holmes air purifier HAP242 is compact and has a longer life span. It comes with 3 cleaning speeds to keep your atmosphere clean and fresh. You can keep it on your table or desktop- horizontally or vertically.

At a glance

NameHolmes air purifier HAP242
Product dimension14.8 x 11.4 x 7.2 inches
Product weight5.65 pounds
Coverage area109 sq feet / 10-by-11-foot room
Power supplyAC 120V
Filtration system3 in one pre-filter, HEPA type filter, and a carbon filter. It is also included with ionizer light.
Noise levelQuite in low speed, moderately noisy in high speed
Made inUSA

 

Pros
  • Highly affordable (>50$)
  • Compact in size. Fits like a table decor
  • Longer lifespan
  • Three fan speed settings
  • Multiple filtering systems
  • Optional ionizer
  • Lightweight, highly portable
  • 3-year warranty(limited)
Cons
  • HEPA type filter instead of a true HEPA filter
  • Quite noisy in high-speed setting.

What users say?

Paul, a user said that this product is quite good for him. He can’t explain how good its performance compared with another desktop air purifier. Although its low and medium speed is quiet high speed is slightly loud. So he does a hack, only run it high speed when he is out of the home.

Expert’s Opinion

Very good option as a compact design ionizer and light desktop air purifier. Also, very affordable and fits for all financial status. Although Ionizer light increases its efficiency, excessive use of ionizer can be hazardous. I suggest using the ionizer moderately.

 You can also read our article on the top odor eliminators for your home.

Features Of An Air purifier under 100

There are multifarious air purifiers available in the market. Choosing the right one is not so easy, especially when you find the best one from a dime a dozen. Some people look for the best one at the lowest price. We suggest convincing yourself that you are going to get an economical one and curb your expectations. Let’s find out some reasons to get a budget air purifier.

  • A budget one is compact. So, if you have space constraints, you can try it.
  • As it is compact, it’s highly portable.
  • If your atmosphere is almost good but you want a better environment.
  • To remove specific kinds of odor or dust particles such as dust from pets or smokes.
  • For personal office space.
  • For your family members who has been suffering from asthma or allergies.

Advantages and limitations of a budget air purifier

Any product you choose in the budget range, you have to face some limitations. Although you get several facilities too. Let’s check the table.

Advantages

  • Budget-friendly and affordable.
  • Compact in size
  • Perfect for carrying during travel
  • Easy to store

Limitations

  • Can’t cover big space
  • Lees effective
  • Less smart option

Buying guide – What to know before you purchase the best air purifier under 100?

When you fully convinced to buy a brand-new budget air purifier it’s important to know the different features of it. Let’s find what you should look for when you get an air purifier under 100.

Magnitude of the Filter

The most important aspect of an air purifier is its filter quality. There are various kinds of filters available in the market. The most popular type is the HEPA filter. Other popular types are ion Ionizers and Ozone Generators, active carbon filter, UV lights, washable pre-filters and so on. A specific purifier filter contains 3 to 5 types of the filter plate. Filters catch the unnecessary particles that present in the air. When air passes through the filter, it traps the airborne particles. Some special types of filters can trap bacteria, microbes, and even viruses. When you want to buy an economical air purifier you must keep in mind that a budget purifier may not have a filter that can trap everything.

Extra Expense

Most of the time the filters are not permanent or washable. Therefore, after using a few weeks or months you have to change the filter plate. The frequency of changing the filter plate depends on the performance of your machine and the quality of the atmosphere you belong to. When you want to buy a budget air purifier it’s very important to consider the replacement cost of the filter. Sometimes the main machine will cost lower but after using a certain period it will cost you a lot.

In the market, some purifiers are existent with a permanent filter system, although they are not good for some sensitive environment.

Speed of the Fan

Good quality filters are not the only matter you should keep in mind. The performance of an air purifier largely depends on the fans and their speed. Most of the purifiers have multiple fan speed setting. You can adjust these as per your needs. Sometimes products also come with a speed sensor of the fan that can automatically adjust the speed.

CADR Level

CADR means Clear Air Delivery Rate. The CADR indicates the performance of a purifier. Higher CADR ensures higher operating efficiency. Try to get a purifier with at least 350 CADR or beyond.

Coverage Area

Before you purchase an air purifier, you must measure the area of your room. A purifier with a smaller coverage area can decrease the efficiency remarkably. Generally, devices with larger dimensions cover larger space than the devices having a smaller dimension. Therefore, always keep it in your consideration.

Dimension

Before deciding on a model you must check the dimension of the appliance. Especially when you purchase it online, check the dimension on and on again. Models that have a larger dimension will cover a larger area but portability may create an issue for you. You need to balance between these two. If you need an air purifier for your car, you are a travel lover who needs to carry the air purifier or the room you need to purify is small then big size models will not be suitable for you.

Warranty

It’s very important to check the warranty terms for your product. The warranty period simply indicates the trustworthiness of the manufacturer and this is an important quality of any product. A higher warranty period means the producer believes in the performance and durability of the product himself. On the other hand, less warranty period demonstrates that the product might not last long. Before you make the decision, check the terms and conditions with caution as well.

Noise Level

An air purifier is a machine and it contains functional fan in it. Therefore, it usually makes some noise. Generally, the noise level is very low. There might be few models out there that create disgusting sound on higher speed mode. Therefore, before you choose an air purifier, check the decibel range of the model, especially if you have children, pets or sound-sensitive persons in your family.

Smart option

To amplify the efficiency and functionality, manufacturers include some extra options in their products. Most air purifiers of the higher ranges come with various smart options. Nowadays, some budget models also have fewer extra functionality such as filter life indicator, ionizer, light, some kinds of digital functions and so on. But if you have a budget concern, having no smart option is just ok.

 

Commonly asked Questions about a budget air purifier [FAQ]

What is a true HEPA filter?
HEPA means High-Efficiency Particulate Arresting. It is the highest standard for filters that are used on air purifiers. It can catch 99.97% of air particles which are as tiny as 0.3 microns.
What's the difference between the true HEPA filter and HEPA type/grade filter?
The word HEPA means High-Efficiency Particulate Arresting. The main difference between these two types of filters is high and low performance. A true HEPA filter is more efficient than that of a HEPA type filter. A true HEPA filter can catch 99.97% unwanted air particles as tiny as 0.3 microns. On the other hand, the HEPA type filter catches 99% airborne particles as small as 2 microns.
Is pre-filter washable?
It is washable and you should wash it from time to time if you care about the longevity of the machine. Because pre-filter is highly important to increase the life of the HEPA filter.
Is HEPA filter washable?
Usually not. But some washable HEPA filters are also available in the market which comes with a “permanent” label mark. Although permanent quality HEPA filters are washable, you can’t wash these with water or soap. You can only vacuum it gently.
Is there any filter that is better than the true HEPA filter?
Ionic filters are more efficient than the True HEPA filter. Usually, ionic filters are suitable for large spaces such as a large room, convention hall, commercial space, and so on.
Are HEPA filters safe for human beings and animals?
Yes of course! It is 100% safe for humans and animals.
What is the function of a carbon filter?
The activated carbon filter naturally removes VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) and bad odors from the air and makes the air pure and fresh.
Is ionic air purifiers safe for environment and human?
Generally, ionic purifiers are completely safe for human beings and the environment. Ionic purifiers only produce limited range ion which is not dangerous like high-level ozone.
Where should I place my air purifier?
For maximum output put the air purifier where maximum dust is present in the air. Or put it near any specific item which produces bad odor.
How long should I run the air purifier?
You should run the air purifier all day long if you want to get a good result. You can try the lowest mode if you want to run it all day. Doing so will help you get fresh air and also save energy.
Can I sleep with a running air purifier?
Of course, it’s highly recommended to turn on the air purifier at sleeping time. It can be very beneficial for your breathing health.
Is there any fire hazard with an air purifier?
Probably no. Almost all the air purifiers have a cut-off or shut-down system if a short circuit happens.
Do air purifiers make the air dry?
Air purifiers cant dry out the air. It only traps the airborne polluted particles.
Should I keep the air purifier on when no one in the home?
You shouldn’t run the air purifier in an empty house. When you come home you can run it at high speed for a couple of hours to get a quick result.
Can air purifiers make air cold?
No, it can’t. It can only catch the airborne particle such as pollen, pet dander, dust, etc and emits the bad odor.
Is air purifier and dehumidifier the same?
No, they are two different appliances. Air purifiers help purify the air from dust, smoke or some kinds of allergens. On the other hand, the dehumidifier minimizes the moisture of the encompassing area.
Can air purifiers remove mold?
It depends, if your air purifier has some specific features like HEPA filter, activated carbon filter, and germicidal UV-C light, it can help with mold.
How can I understand my HEPA filter is out of date?
You can get some models available in the market come with filter indicator. When the filter indicator light will turn on, you should check the HEPA filter. Otherwise, you can check it manually.
How often I should replace my carbon filter?
You should replace the activated carbon filter or charcoal filter every 3 to 6 months as per your use.
Is buying an air purifier wastage of money?
An air purifier can be one of the most effective appliances of your home. But the fact is, you should do some research to pick the best one for you.

 

Final Words

Choosing a perfect air purifier is so difficult and it can even more difficult to choose a budget one. I think this article will help you take the right decision. You can also try some natural ways to get the best results. Know your needs before you intend to purchase anything. If you find the article helpful, please share it with your friends so that they can also get benefited. You can also share your experience about air purifiers through the comment section. Have a good day!