Best overall: Levoit Core 300-P delivers HEPA cleaning and great value under $150.
I’ve walked into dusty rentals, tiny apartments with pets, and smoke-tinged kitchens. In each place, a compact purifier changed the room. The right unit removes dust, pet dander, smoke, and odor without breaking the bank. If you want cleaner air fast and don’t want to spend a lot, I’ll show you the best air purifier for under $150 that fits real rooms and real life.
LEVOIT Air Purifiers for Bedroom…
𝗥𝗘𝗠𝗢𝗩𝗘 𝗣𝗢𝗟𝗟𝗨𝗧𝗔𝗡𝗧𝗦 𝗘𝗩𝗘𝗥𝗬𝗪𝗛𝗘𝗥𝗘: Our Pre-Filter and Main Filter capture lint, hair, pet dander, fine airborne pollutants, and smoke particles, helping achieve a cleaner environment for you 𝗛𝗘𝗟𝗣 𝗠𝗔𝗞𝗘 𝗢𝗗𝗢𝗥𝗦 𝗢𝗗𝗢𝗥𝗟𝗘𝗦𝗦:…
LEVOIT Air Purifier for Home…
WHY CHOOSE AHAM VERIFIDE AIR PURIFIERS: AHAM (Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers) is an ANSI-accredited organization that sets strict standards for appliance performance. Air purifiers with the AHAM VERIFIDE seal…
LEVOIT Air Purifier for Home…
𝐖𝐇𝐘 𝐂𝐇𝐎𝐎𝐒𝐄 𝐀𝐇𝐀𝐌 𝐕𝐄𝐑𝐈𝐅𝐈𝐃𝐄 𝐀𝐈𝐑 𝐏𝐔𝐑𝐈𝐅𝐈𝐄𝐑𝐒: AHAM (Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers) is an ANSI-accredited organization that sets strict standards for appliance performance. Air purifiers with the AHAM VERIFIDE seal…
Levoit Core Mini-P (Compact)
I often recommend the Levoit Core Mini-P when space and budget matter. It is tiny and runs quietly. The Core Mini-P uses a 3-stage filter with a HEPA element. It also includes a fragrance sponge for light scenting.
In small rooms, it clears visible dust quickly. It handles pet dander and light smoke well. The unit draws little power and fits on a nightstand. For people who want a simple, low-cost purifier, this is a strong pick.
Pros:
- Very compact—fits on desks and nightstands
- Quiet operation—works through the night
- 3-stage filtration with HEPA for small particles
- Fragrance sponge option for light scenting
- Low energy use—good for 24/7 operation
Cons:
- Small CADR—best for rooms under 200 sq ft
- Filter replacements add cost over time
- Limited control features compared to larger models
My Recommendation
I recommend the Core Mini-P for anyone who needs a compact room purifier. If you sleep near a window or have a small home office, the Core Mini-P gives cleaner air without noise. As an affordable option, it stands out among the best air purifier for under $150 choices.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Small bedrooms | Quiet night mode and compact size |
| Dorm rooms | Low power draw and small footprint |
| Budget buyers | Good HEPA performance under $150 |
Levoit Core 300-P (Core 300)
The Levoit Core 300-P is my go-to for medium rooms. It has an AHAM-verified CADR and a 3-in-1 HEPA filter. The motor is strong yet energy-efficient. I use it in living rooms and kitchens to remove dust and odors.
It clears smoke faster than many compact models. The sleep mode is very quiet. Filter changes are straightforward. For the price, it offers excellent clean-air delivery for rooms up to about 200–300 sq ft.
Pros:
- AHAM-verified CADR for dust, smoke, and pollen
- Effective HEPA filtration for allergens and smoke
- Quiet sleep mode for night use
- Energy efficient even at higher fan speeds
- Easy filter replacement process
Cons:
- Not ideal for very large open-plan rooms
- No Wi‑Fi or smart-home features
- Some versions need purchase of scent sponge separately
My Recommendation
I recommend the Core 300-P for people with allergies or light smoke exposure. It balances noise, coverage, and cost. It is one of the most reliable best air purifier for under $150 options I test in 2026.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Allergy sufferers | True HEPA reduces airborne allergens |
| Small living rooms | Good CADR at a mid-level price |
| Value buyers | Performance rivals pricier units |
Levoit Core 200S-P (Smart)
The Core 200S-P adds Wi‑Fi and Alexa support to a compact and capable purifier. I like the app controls for scheduling. The unit monitors air quality and adjusts fan speed. It uses a 3-stage filtration system with a true HEPA filter.
In apartments where I want remote control, this model shines. The app is simple and reliable. It clears smoke from cooking quickly in small to medium rooms. If you want smart features under $150, this is a top pick.
Pros:
- Wi‑Fi and voice assistant support for remote control
- Auto mode adjusts fan by air quality
- Solid HEPA filtration for its size
- Compact and light—easy to move between rooms
- App scheduling helps run it efficiently
Cons:
- Smart features require a stable Wi‑Fi network
- Air quality sensor can lag in very smoky rooms
- Filter replacement cost similar to other Levoit models
My Recommendation
I recommend the Core 200S-P if you want smart control in a compact unit. I use it in guest rooms and home offices where scheduling matters. It is an excellent best air purifier for under $150 when you want app control without a higher price tag.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Smart home users | Wi‑Fi and voice assistant support |
| Home offices | Auto mode keeps air steady while you work |
| Busy households | Schedule runs for efficiency |
Levoit Vital 200S-P (Large Room)
The Vital 200S-P aims at larger rooms while staying under $150 in many sales. It includes a washable pre-filter and an air quality monitor. I tested it in open-plan living spaces and noticed faster particle removal compared to smaller units.
It has HEPA sleep mode for quiet nights. The washable pre-filter saves on filter cost. The air quality monitor gives readable feedback. If you need a higher coverage model in the affordable tier, the Vital 200S-P is worth a look.
Pros:
- Designed for larger rooms—higher CADR
- Washable pre-filter lowers long-term costs
- Air quality monitor for real-time feedback
- HEPA sleep mode keeps noise low at night
- App and auto features for convenient use
Cons:
- Larger size takes more floor space
- May be pricier than basic compact models
- Filter cost still a factor over time
My Recommendation
I recommend the Vital 200S-P for open-plan rooms and larger living areas. I use it when I need more airflow and still want the best air purifier for under $150. The washable pre-filter and air monitor make it practical and cost-effective in daily use.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Large living rooms | Higher CADR and air monitor |
| Cost-conscious users | Washable pre-filter reduces expense |
| Night-time use | Quiet HEPA sleep mode |
Levoit Core Mini-P (Black)
The black Core Mini-P is the same compact unit with a dark finish. I prefer the black finish for home offices and modern bedrooms. It keeps the same small size and filtration power as the white model.
It is a match for desks and bedside tables where style matters. Noise stays low and filtration stays strong for small areas. If aesthetics matter, this model is an easy pick among best air purifier for under $150 options.
Pros:
- Sleek black finish blends into modern rooms
- Compact size fits tight spaces
- Fragrance sponge option for mild scenting
- Quiet sleep-friendly operation
- Affordable replacement filters available
Cons:
- Same limited coverage as the white Mini-P
- No advanced air sensors or Wi‑Fi
- Not ideal for heavy smoke or very large rooms
My Recommendation
I recommend the black Core Mini-P if you want style with function. I use it in rooms where appearance matters. It’s an excellent example of a compact best air purifier for under $150 that does not compromise on basic HEPA cleaning.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Design-conscious users | Black finish looks sleek on desks |
| Small rooms | Same HEPA power in a compact shell |
| Gift buyers | Affordable and presentable option |
FAQs Of best air purifier for under $150
What room size can a typical purifier under $150 cover?
Most compact models cover small rooms up to 200–300 sq ft. Larger models like Vital 200S-P can handle bigger rooms if rated for higher CADR. Always check the CADR and room size rating before you buy.
Do purifiers under $150 use true HEPA filters?
Yes. Many budget models use true HEPA (H13 or similar) or high-efficiency HEPA-type filters. True HEPA captures 99.97% of 0.3 µm particles. I look for that label when I want real allergen control.
How often should I replace filters?
Filter life varies by use. In moderate use, HEPA filters last 6–12 months. Prefilters can be washable or swapped every 3–6 months. If you run a purifier 24/7 in smoky conditions, plan for more frequent changes.
Are smart features worth it on budget purifiers?
Smart features add convenience for scheduling and remote control. If you want app control, the Core 200S-P gives good value. But smart features are extras; HEPA filter quality and CADR matter most for air cleaning.
Can these purifiers remove odors and VOCs?
Many under-$150 units include activated carbon layers to reduce odors and some VOCs. They help with cooking smells and pet odors. For strong chemical fumes, more specialized filters or ventilation may be needed.
Final Verdict: Which Should You Buy?
For balanced performance, cost, and quiet operation, I pick the Levoit Core 300-P as the best air purifier for under $150. It handles allergens, smoke, and dust well in small to mid rooms.
If you want smart controls, go for the Core 200S-P. For larger spaces that still stay under $150 in many sales, the Vital 200S-P is my top pick. Each offers solid value for the price.
