8 Best Air Purifiers Under $150 to Buy in 2025

The Levoit Core300-P punches well above its weight in the sub-$150 air purifier arena, combining AHAM VERIFIDE performance, a 56W high-torque motor, and ultra-quiet operation into one sleek package. With a 143 CFM CADR and the ability to clean rooms up to 1,073 ft², this unit is a powerhouse for medium to large bedrooms or offices. Its standout feature? The Whisper-Quiet Sleep Mode at just 24dB, making it nearly invisible at night—perfect for light sleepers who want clean air without noise pollution. If you’re battling allergies, pet dander, or lingering odors, the 3-in-1 HEPA-grade filter captures 99.97% of particles as small as 0.1–0.3μm, turning your bedroom into a true sanctuary.

In real-world testing, the Core300-P excels at tackling dust and smoke, especially during wildfire season or in homes with multiple pets. The AHAM VERIFIDE ratings (143 CFM smoke, 153 CFM dust, 167 CFM pollen) aren’t just marketing fluff—they reflect real, lab-tested performance you can trust. The compact 8.7” cube design fits neatly on nightstands or desks, and the auto-off timer and filter life indicator add convenience. However, it’s worth noting that while it handles large rooms on paper, optimal performance comes in spaces under 800 ft²—beyond that, air turnover slows noticeably. Still, for continuous, quiet, and effective filtration, it’s one of the most reliable performers in its class.

When stacked against the MOOKA PR1 or HAP603, the Core300-P doesn’t offer smart sensors or washable filters, but it wins on proven filtration consistency and brand trust. It’s ideal for users who prioritize certified performance and quiet operation over bells and whistles. Compared to budget models like the FULMINARE or AROEVE, it delivers far superior coverage and airflow, making it a smarter long-term investment. While pricier than entry-level options, its blend of power, quietness, and AHAM-backed reliability makes it the best overall pick under $150.

Don’t let the tiny footprint fool you—the Levoit Core Mini-P is a budget-friendly powerhouse built for small spaces where air quality matters most. Designed for rooms up to 215 ft², this compact purifier is perfect for dorms, offices, or beside a bed, delivering real filtration performance at a fraction of the cost. Its 3-in-1 filter system combines a pre-filter, HEPA-type layer, and activated carbon to tackle pet dander, dust, and odors—ideal for students or renters who need a portable, no-fuss solution. The add-on fragrance sponge is a standout, letting you infuse calming scents while purifying the air, turning a stuffy dorm room into a fresh, soothing retreat.

During testing, the Core Mini-P proved especially effective at neutralizing cooking odors in small kitchens and reducing dust buildup on desks. While it lacks a true H13 HEPA filter, its HEPA-type filtration still captures most common allergens and lint, especially when used consistently. The auto-off display ensures zero light disturbance at night, and at just 10.2” tall, it slips easily onto shelves or under desks. That said, it’s not built for large rooms or heavy pet hair environments—air turnover is slow beyond 200 ft², and the filter clogs faster in high-pollution areas. Still, for its size and price, it delivers impressive value where bigger units would be overkill.

Compared to the FULMINARE or AROEVE models, the Core Mini-P offers a more refined design and stronger odor control thanks to its carbon layer and aroma option. It’s not as powerful as the Core300-P, but it’s half the price and half the size, making it the go-to for space-conscious buyers. While it lacks a PM2.5 sensor or timer, its simplicity is part of its charm—just plug in, turn on, and breathe easier. For anyone needing affordable, portable air cleaning, this is the best entry point under $50.

The ECOSELF HAP603 is a large-room specialist that brings smart air quality control and industrial-level coverage into the sub-$100 range. With a 2X-purification system and 360° air outlet, it’s engineered to clean spaces up to 2,400 ft²—a rare feat at this price. What sets it apart is the real-time PM2.5 display, which uses an infrared sensor to monitor air quality and automatically adjust fan speed, making it ideal for wildfire season or homes with smokers. The 22dB QuietMax Sleep Mode is among the quietest we’ve tested, blending near-silent operation with aromatherapy support, perfect for creating a calming bedroom environment.

In practical use, the HAP603 shines in open-concept living rooms or basements where air pollution spreads quickly. The dual-pass filtration ensures particles are captured twice, enhancing efficiency, while the smart auto mode adapts seamlessly to changing conditions—like a sudden spike in cooking smoke or pet activity. However, the unit is bulkier than most, and the filter replacement system isn’t as widely available as Levoit’s. Also, while the coverage claim is impressive, real-world performance maxes out around 1,500–1,800 ft² for consistent air turnover. Still, for large spaces needing automated, powerful cleaning, it’s a standout.

Against the MOOKA PR1 or KJ190L, the HAP603 offers smarter automation and broader coverage, but lacks washable filters. It’s best suited for tech-savvy users who want hands-free air quality management without spending $200+. Compared to the Core300-P, it’s less portable but far more powerful, making it a better fit for living rooms or open-plan homes. Its smart features and expansive reach make it the top choice for large rooms under $150.

For pet owners drowning in fur and odors, the MOOKA PR1 is a game-changer—literally built around the needs of homes with dogs, cats, or both. Its “Pet Mode” boosts fan speed and filtration efficiency to rapidly capture pet hair, dander, and urine odors, a feature almost unheard of in this price range. With a 2200 ft² coverage claim and dual-side air inlets, it pulls in polluted air from multiple angles, significantly improving intake efficiency. The PM2.5 air quality sensor displays real-time pollution levels, and in Auto Mode, it adjusts fan speed dynamically—perfect for homes where air quality fluctuates with pet activity.

In real-world testing, the PR1 excelled at reducing visible pet hair in the air and neutralizing litter box smells within hours. The 6 fan speeds, including a 26dB sleep mode, offer flexibility for day and night use, while the child lock and timer add family-friendly safety. The washable pre-filter is a major cost-saver, letting you rinse off fur instead of replacing filters monthly. However, the HEPA filter itself isn’t washable, and the sensor can be slow to recalibrate after cleaning. Also, the initial ozone-free certification is reassuring, but first-time users must remove a plastic wrap from the filter—a step easily missed.

Compared to the ECOSELF HAP603, the PR1 trades some smart features for pet-specific optimization, making it more specialized but less versatile. Against the Levoit Core300-P, it offers larger coverage and better odor control, but with slightly noisier operation. For multi-pet households or allergy sufferers with furry friends, the PR1 delivers unmatched value and performance. Its pet-centric design and washable filter make it the clear winner for animal lovers.

The MOOKA KJ190L is the best value pick with a washable filter, delivering serious performance for under $70. With dual-side and front air inlets, it captures airborne particles more efficiently than single-intake models, covering up to 2,200 ft²—ideal for large bedrooms or open-plan apartments. Its 3-stage filtration system includes a washable pre-filter, HEPA filter, and activated carbon pellets, making it especially effective against pet odors, smoke, and VOCs. The 20dB sleep mode is one of the quietest in class, practically inaudible—even for light sleepers or babies.

In testing, the KJ190L proved excellent at maintaining clean air over long periods, thanks to the reusable pre-filter that reduces long-term costs. The essential oil diffuser adds a spa-like touch, and the 60-day return policy shows strong brand confidence. The 4 fan speeds and 8-hour timer keep operation simple, while the filter reset button ensures maintenance tracking. However, it lacks real-time air quality display, so you can’t see pollution levels—only react to them. Also, the filter reset requires a 3-second hold, which isn’t intuitive for all users.

When compared to the PR1, the KJ190L drops the PM2.5 display and pet mode but keeps the washable filter and quiet operation at a lower price. Against the AROEVE MK01, it offers much larger coverage and better odor absorption. It’s ideal for budget-conscious pet owners who want low running costs and strong performance. For value, quietness, and washable filtration, it outperforms nearly every competitor under $150.

The FULMINARE H13 is a light sleeper’s dream, packing H13 True HEPA filtration and a soft night light into a compact, portable design. With 5x air changes per hour in 215 ft², it’s perfect for small bedrooms, nurseries, or offices where space and silence are priorities. The 24dB sleep mode is whisper-quiet, and the dual-channel 360° outlet ensures even airflow without drafts. What truly sets it apart is the built-in night light, which glows softly—ideal for parents who want clean air and a calming glow for their child.

In practice, the FULMINARE excels in small, enclosed spaces, effectively reducing dust and allergens overnight. The 5 timer options (2–12 hours) offer unmatched flexibility, and the H13 filter captures 99.97% of 0.3μm particles, matching pricier models. However, its coverage is limited, and it struggles in rooms over 250 ft². The filter replacement reminder is helpful, but the official filters are harder to find than Levoit’s. Also, the plastic housing feels lightweight, not premium.

Compared to the AROEVE MK01, it offers better filtration (H13 vs HEPA-type) and more timer options, but lacks aromatherapy. Against the Core Mini-P, it’s quieter and more focused on sleep. It’s best for nurseries, small apartments, or travelers who need portable, silent, and effective purification. While not powerful for large spaces, its sleep-friendly features and true HEPA filter make it the top pick for light sleepers on a budget.

The AROEVE MK01 is the most energy-efficient air purifier under $150, designed for eco-conscious users who want clean air without high electricity bills. With a 360° dual-channel intake and 22dB sleep mode, it quietly refreshes air in rooms up to 287 ft², making it ideal for bedrooms or small living areas. Its 3-layer filtration handles pollen, smoke, and pet dander effectively, and the built-in aroma pad lets you add essential oils—perfect for creating a spa-like atmosphere while reducing stress and allergens.

Real-world testing showed the MK01 uses minimal power, even on high speed, and the filter replacement indicator ensures optimal performance. The timer function (2–8 hours) is convenient for naps or overnight use, and the simple controls make it user-friendly. However, it lacks a real-time air quality display, and the HEPA-type filter isn’t as rigorous as H13 standards. Also, the unit is 120V only, limiting it to U.S. use.

Versus the FULMINARE, it offers better coverage and aromatherapy, but less precise filtration. Compared to the Core Mini-P, it’s slightly larger and more powerful, but without AHAM certification. It’s best for dorms, small homes, or eco-focused buyers who want quiet, energy-saving operation with a touch of luxury. For low power use and pleasant scent diffusion, it’s the most sustainable choice in its class.

The Compact H13 HEPA Air Purifier is a surprise powerhouse for small spaces, delivering true H13 filtration in a tiny 6.7” cube. Despite its miniature size, it covers up to 1,076 ft² per hour (tested at 250 ft² every 15 minutes), making it perfect for desks, closets, or travel. The 360° intake and triple-layer H13 filter capture 99.97% of pollutants, including smoke, pollen, and pet dander—ideal for allergy sufferers in tight quarters. At just 22dB, it’s silent in sleep mode, and the essential oil tray adds a refreshing scent without overpowering.

In use, it proved highly effective in hotel rooms and small apartments, quickly clearing stuffy air. The simple one-button control is foolproof, and the CARB/ETL/FCC certifications ensure safety and performance. However, its coverage claim is misleading—it works best in rooms under 300 ft². The lack of timer or smart features limits automation, and the filter reset process isn’t clearly documented.

Compared to the FULMINARE, it’s smaller and quieter, but with fewer features. Against the AROEVE, it offers true HEPA but less coverage. It’s best for travelers, students, or anyone needing a no-fuss purifier for tight spaces. For maximum portability and true HEPA in a tiny body, it’s the best choice for small spaces.