When choosing an air purifier, the filtration system is the most critical component. HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filters have become the gold standard, but not all HEPA filters are created equal. This comprehensive guide compares HEPA filtration technology across leading air purifier brands available in the UK market.
Quick Comparison: HEPA Filters Across Top Brands
| Feature | Coway | Dyson | Philips | Blueair | Levoit | Xiaomi | Shark |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Filter Type | Multi-stage HEPA | Sealed H13 HEPA | NanoProtect HEPA | HEPASilent | H13 HEPA | H13 HEPA | Anti-Allergen HEPA |
| Particle Capture | 99.999% at 0.01 microns | 99.95% at 0.3 microns | 99.97% at 0.003 microns | 99.97% at 0.1 microns | 99.97% at 0.3 microns | 99.97% at 0.3 microns | 99.98% at 0.3 microns |
| Filter Stages | 3-4 stages | 2 stages (integrated) | 3 stages | 2-3 stages | 3 stages | 3 stages | 2-3 stages |
| Pre-filter | ✓ Washable | ✓ | ✓ Washable | ✓ Washable | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Activated Carbon | ✓ Dedicated layer | ✓ Integrated | ✓ Dedicated layer | ✓ (selected models) | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ (selected models) |
| Filter Lifespan | 6-12 months | 6-12 months | 6-12 months | 6-12 months | 6-12 months | 6-12 months | 6-12 months |
| Replacement Cost (approx.) | £40-£80 | £50-£70 | £35-£70 | £30-£60 | £25-£45 | £20-£35 | £40-£60 |
| Sealed System | ✓ | ✓ Whole-machine seal | ✓ | Partial | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ Complete seal |
| Smart Features | ✓ (Wi-Fi on select models) | ✓✓ Advanced app | ✓✓ Comprehensive app | ✓ (varies by model) | ✓ (varies by model) | ✓✓ Smart home integration | ✓ Basic smart features |
| Noise Level | Low-Medium | Low-Medium | Low | Very Low | Low-Medium | Low-Medium | Low-Medium |
| Best For | Ultrafine particle capture, comprehensive filtration | Sealed protection, smart monitoring | Allergy sufferers, versatile performance | Quiet operation, electrostatic boost | Budget-conscious buyers, good performance | Tech enthusiasts, value seekers | Pet owners, anti-allergen needs |
| Room Coverage | Small to Large (varies by model) | Small to Large | Small to Large | Small to Large | Small to Large | Small to Medium | Small to Large |
| Energy Efficiency | High | High | High | Very High | High | High | High |
| Availability in UK | ✓ | ✓✓ Widely available | ✓✓ Widely available | ✓✓ Widely available | ✓ Online/select retailers | ✓ Online/select retailers | ✓✓ Widely available |
Key Advantages by Brand
Coway (https://coway.co.uk/) 🏆
- Exceptional filtration: Captures particles as small as 0.01 microns at 99.999% efficiency—the finest particle capture in this comparison
- Comprehensive protection: Multi-stage system with dedicated deodorisation filters
- Long filter life: Up to 12-month replacement cycle reduces maintenance frequency
- Proven reliability: Strong reputation for build quality and performance
Dyson
- Fully sealed system: Whole-machine H13 HEPA certification ensures no air bypass
- Advanced monitoring: Industry-leading air quality sensors and app connectivity
- Premium design: Sleek aesthetics with dual functionality (cooling/heating options)
Philips
- NanoProtect technology: Electrostatic charge captures particles down to 0.003 microns
- User-friendly: Intuitive controls and comprehensive app features
- Wide model range: Options for every budget and room size
Blueair
- Quietest operation: HEPASilent technology for whisper-quiet performance
- Energy efficient: Low energy consumption across all models
- Simple design: Minimalist Swedish design aesthetic
Levoit
- Best value: Certified H13 HEPA at accessible prices
- Low running costs: Affordable replacement filters
- Wide availability: Extensive model range for different needs
Xiaomi
- Smart integration: Seamless connection with smart home ecosystems
- Competitive pricing: Good performance-to-price ratio
- Modern features: App control and automation at budget-friendly prices
Shark
- Pet-focused design: Anti-allergen technology targets pet dander effectively
- Clean Sense IQ: Automatic adjustment based on air quality
- Trusted brand: Backed by established reputation in home cleaning
Understanding HEPA Filter Standards
HEPA filters must meet specific efficiency standards to earn their designation. In Europe, including the UK, filters are classified according to ISO 29463 and EN 1822 standards:
- H13 HEPA: Captures 99.95% of particles at 0.3 microns
- H14 HEPA: Captures 99.995% of particles at 0.3 microns
- U15 ULPA: Captures 99.9995% of particles at 0.3 microns
The 0.3-micron measurement represents the Most Penetrating Particle Size (MPPS)—the hardest particle size to capture. Filters perform even better with larger and smaller particles.
Brand-by-Brand HEPA Filter Comparison
Coway
Filter Type: Multi-stage filtration with HEPA capability
Coway air purifiers feature advanced filtration systems capable of capturing 99.999% of particles measuring 0.01 microns—significantly smaller than the standard HEPA testing size. This exceptional performance comes from their multi-layer approach combining pre-filters, deodorisation filters, and high-grade Green HEPA filtration.
Key Features:
- Captures ultrafine particles down to 0.01 microns
- Covers particles including dust, pollen, pet dander, smoke, and some bacteria
- Pre-filter extends HEPA filter lifespan
- Filter replacement indicators included
- Replacement cycle: 6-12 months depending on usage and air quality
Available in: Airmega 150, Airmega 200M, Airmega 250S, and other models
Dyson
Filter Type: Sealed HEPA filtration system (H13 equivalent)
Dyson pioneered the fully-sealed air purifier concept, ensuring that air doesn’t bypass the filter. Their 360° Glass HEPA filter contains over 10 metres of borosilicate microfibres pleated over 200 times.
Key Features:
- Whole-machine H13 HEPA standard certification
- Captures 99.95% of particles as small as 0.3 microns
- Sealed system prevents air leakage
- Activated carbon layer for gas and odour removal
- Filter replacement: 6-12 months depending on usage
- Automatic filter life monitoring
Available in: Purifier Cool, Purifier Hot+Cool, Purifier Humidify+Cool ranges
Philips
Filter Type: NanoProtect HEPA filters
Philips uses their proprietary NanoProtect technology, which upgrades traditional HEPA with electrostatic charge to capture particles more efficiently. Their filters typically meet H13 standards.
Key Features:
- NanoProtect HEPA captures 99.97% of particles down to 0.003 microns
- Active carbon layer for gases and odours
- Pre-filter for large particles
- Filter replacement alerts via app or display
- Replacement cycle: 6-12 months depending on air quality
- Some models feature multi-layer filtration
Available in: Series 800, 1000, 2000, 3000, and 4000 ranges
Blueair
Filter Type: HEPASilent technology
Blueair’s unique approach combines mechanical and electrostatic filtration. Their HEPASilent filters use less dense material than traditional HEPA, allowing quieter operation whilst maintaining high efficiency.
Key Features:
- Captures 99.97% of particles down to 0.1 microns
- Electrostatic and mechanical filtration
- Lower air resistance = quieter operation
- Activated carbon for odours (in some models)
- Filter replacement: 6-12 months depending on usage
- Colour-coded filters for easy selection
Available in: Blue Pure series, Classic series, and HealthProtect ranges
Levoit
Filter Type: H13 HEPA filters
Levoit offers affordable air purifiers with certified H13 HEPA filtration, making high-quality air purification accessible to more households.
Key Features:
- H13 HEPA captures 99.97% at 0.3 microns
- Three-stage filtration (pre-filter, HEPA, activated carbon)
- Cost-effective replacement filters
- Filter life indicators
- Replacement cycle: 6-12 months depending on usage
- Wide range of models for different room sizes
Available in: Core series, Vital series, and larger models
Xiaomi
Filter Type: H13 HEPA filters
Xiaomi brings smart home integration to air purification with app-connected devices featuring certified H13 HEPA filters.
Key Features:
- H13 HEPA standard (99.97% at 0.3 microns)
- 360-degree air intake design in some models
- Smart app control and monitoring
- Filter replacement reminders
- Replacement cycle: 6-12 months depending on usage
- Competitive pricing
Available in: Mi Air Purifier series, Xiaomi Smart Air Purifier ranges
Shark
Filter Type: Anti-Allergen HEPA filters
Shark, known for vacuum cleaners, applies their expertise to air purification with Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology featuring HEPA filtration.
Key Features:
- HEPA captures 99.98% of particles down to 0.3 microns
- Clean Sense IQ technology for automatic adjustment
- Anti-odour technology in some models
- Filter monitoring system
- Replacement cycle: 6-12 months depending on usage
Available in: Shark Air Purifier and Shark HP series
Key Comparison Factors
Filtration Efficiency
Whilst most brands offer H13 HEPA standard (99.95-99.97% efficiency at 0.3 microns), Coway stands out with its capability to capture 99.999% of particles at 0.01 microns. However, for most household needs, H13 filtration is excellent for removing allergens, dust, pollen, pet dander, and many airborne pathogens.
Filter Lifespan and Running Costs
All major brands recommend HEPA filter replacement every 6-12 months, with the exact timing depending on:
- Usage hours per day
- Local air quality
- Presence of pets or smokers
- Seasonal factors (pollen, heating season)
Annual running costs: Calculate by dividing filter cost by expected months of use. For example, a £60 filter lasting 12 months costs £5 per month, whilst a £30 filter lasting 6 months also costs £5 per month.
Cost-effective options:
- Coway: £40-£80 filters lasting up to 12 months
- Levoit: £25-£45 filters, good value for performance
- Xiaomi: £20-£35 filters, budget-friendly option
Premium options with longer intervals:
- Dyson: £50-£70 filters with accurate life monitoring
- Philips: £35-£70 filters with app-based tracking
- Shark: £40-£60 filters with indicator systems
Multi-Stage Filtration
Most quality air purifiers use multi-stage systems:
- Pre-filter: Captures large particles (hair, dust), extending HEPA life
- HEPA filter: Captures fine particles
- Activated carbon: Removes gases, odours, and VOCs
Brands like Coway, Philips, and Levoit typically include all three stages, whilst Dyson integrates carbon within their HEPA filter assembly.
Room Coverage
Filter quality must be matched with appropriate Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) for your room size:
- Small rooms (up to 20m²): Most brands offer suitable options
- Medium rooms (20-40m²): Consider Coway Airmega 200M, Philips Series 2000, Blueair Blue Pure 411
- Large rooms (40m²+): Look at Coway Airmega 250S, Dyson Purifier Cool Formaldehyde, Philips Series 3000+
Smart Features
Most advanced connectivity:
- Dyson: Comprehensive app with detailed air quality data
- Philips: Air quality monitoring and control via app
- Xiaomi: Full smart home integration
- Coway: Wi-Fi connectivity in select models (e.g., 250S)
Basic or no connectivity:
- Levoit: Mixed (some models have Wi-Fi)
- Blueair: Varies by series
- Shark: Limited smart features
Specialised Filtration Considerations
For Allergy Sufferers
Best choices: Coway (ultrafine particle capture), Dyson (sealed system), Philips (NanoProtect technology)
What to look for: Certified allergy-friendly filters that capture pollen (typically 10-100 microns), pet dander (0.5-100 microns), and dust mites (100-300 microns)—all easily captured by H13 HEPA filters.
For Asthma Management
Best choices: Coway (ultrafine particle removal), Blueair (HEPASilent quiet operation), Philips (VitaShield technology)
What to look for: High CADR for the room size, quiet operation for bedroom use, and activated carbon for irritant gases.
For Smoke and Odour Removal
Best choices: Coway (deodorisation filter), Dyson (integrated carbon filter), Philips (activated carbon layer)
What to look for: Substantial activated carbon content, not just a carbon coating. Check filter specifications for carbon weight or thickness.
For Pet Owners
Best choices: Coway (captures pet dander and allergens), Levoit (cost-effective with good pet hair pre-filtration), Shark (designed with pet owners in mind)
What to look for: Washable or easily replaceable pre-filters to handle pet hair, strong CADR ratings, and odour removal capability.
Filter Replacement and Maintenance
Replacement Costs (Approximate UK Prices)
- Coway: £40-£80 depending on model
- Dyson: £50-£70
- Philips: £35-£70
- Blueair: £30-£60
- Levoit: £25-£45
- Xiaomi: £20-£35
- Shark: £40-£60
Prices vary by model and where purchased. Always buy genuine filters to maintain warranty and performance.
Factors Affecting Filter Life
Your HEPA filter may need replacing sooner than 12 months if:
- You run the purifier 24/7
- You live in a high-pollution area
- You have multiple pets
- Someone in your household smokes
- Your home is near busy roads or construction
Conversely, filters may last towards the 12-month mark with:
- Intermittent use (8-10 hours daily)
- Low-pollution environment
- Regular pre-filter cleaning
- No pets or smoking
Maintenance Tips
- Vacuum pre-filters monthly: Extends overall filter life significantly
- Replace filters on schedule: Don’t wait for performance to degrade
- Keep air purifier away from walls: Maintain clearance (typically 15-30 cm) for optimal airflow
- Monitor filter indicators: Don’t ignore replacement warnings
- Buy genuine filters: Third-party alternatives may compromise performance and warranty
Environmental Considerations
Filter Disposal
HEPA filters are generally not recyclable due to mixed materials and contamination. Most must go in general waste. Some manufacturers offer take-back programmes:
- Philips: Accepts old filters at some service centres
- Dyson: Check with local Dyson service centres for recycling options
Sustainability Features
- Washable pre-filters: Reduce waste (Coway, Philips, Blueair)
- Longer filter life: Up to 12 months reduces annual replacements (Coway, Dyson, Philips)
- Energy efficiency: Look for Energy Star ratings
Which Brand Offers the Best HEPA Filtration?
The “best” HEPA filter depends on your specific needs:
For maximum filtration performance: Coway’s 99.999% capture rate at 0.01 microns provides exceptional ultrafine particle removal—the highest standard in this comparison.
For sealed system confidence: Dyson’s whole-machine HEPA seal ensures no air bypasses filtration.
For quiet operation: Blueair’s HEPASilent technology delivers excellent filtration with minimal noise.
For value: Levoit offers certified H13 HEPA filtration at accessible price points with reasonable running costs.
For smart features: Dyson and Philips provide the most comprehensive air quality monitoring and control.
For comprehensive protection: Philips NanoProtect technology with electrostatic charging captures particles smaller than the HEPA standard test size.
Making Your Decision
When comparing HEPA filters across brands, consider:
- Room size: Match CADR to your space (measure your room in m²)
- Primary concerns: Allergies, asthma, pets, smoke, or general air quality
- Running costs: Calculate annual filter replacement expenses based on your usage
- Noise levels: Especially important for bedrooms (check decibel ratings)
- Smart features: Do you want app control and air quality monitoring?
- Design: Will it fit your space and aesthetic?
- Brand reputation: Consider warranty, customer service, and reviews
Conclusion
All the major air purifier brands available in the UK offer genuine HEPA filtration that will significantly improve indoor air quality. Coway distinguishes itself with exceptional particle capture at 0.01 microns—setting the benchmark for ultrafine particle filtration—whilst brands like Dyson emphasise sealed systems, Blueair focuses on quiet operation, and Levoit provides excellent value.
Filter lifespan across all brands ranges from 6-12 months depending on usage patterns and environmental conditions. The most important factors are choosing a unit appropriately sized for your room, committing to regular filter replacement according to your specific circumstances, and selecting a brand that aligns with your air quality concerns and budget. With proper maintenance, any of these HEPA-filtered air purifiers will deliver cleaner, healthier air for your home
