In the app (I downloaded it for testing purposes), you can create a schedule, set the purifier to automatically switch modes at different times of the day, set a “child lock,” and change the brightness of the LED display (a perfect feature for people with purifiers in the bedroom). Beyond changing settings, the app gives an overview of the level of air pollution in your space and alerts the user when it is time to change filters. While I can’t say I’ve noticed a palpable difference in the quality of the air in my apartment, I’m sure the HEPA filter is removing plenty of imperceptible pollutants. That peace of mind is good enough for me!
What I would change: In a perfect world, I would be able to find a purifier that blends in with my collection of midcentury furniture, rather than one that screams “I AM AN AIR PURIFIER”—but alas. When it comes to aesthetics, the Blueair models are totally fine, and better than most–they’re sleek and minimal, and likely blend in more easily with modern decor.
For a purifier specifically aimed at small spaces, the Blue Max 411i is not exactly miniature. At 19 inches tall, with a 10-inch diameter, it’s a tad bulky, especially when placed in an optimal location for purifying.
The bottom line: Overall, I am very happy to have this purifier in my space! In the age of global pandemics and unpredictable environmental factors, we can all stand to benefit from some cleaner air. Though slightly bulky, the Blue Max 411i is extremely easy to use, relatively affordable, and almost completely inaudible. For me, it’s a fantastic set-it-and-forget-it air quality solution!
Tester: Lila Allen, associate director, AD PRO
My space: As long as I’ve lived in New York City, I’ve struggled with a general feeling of ick around my home. Dust, pollen (especially during open-window season), and pollution from traffic have all been challenges. And with a cat in the mix, there’s also pet dander, fur, and litter box odors to contend with. Diligent cleaning gets me pretty far, but doesn’t resolve all of these issues.
Area coverage: This model covers up to 810 square feet in an hour. I focused it in one area of my home—the bedroom—where pet odors and pollution were the biggest blights.
Filter replacements: A replacement filter runs just shy of $40. Filters last for up to a year, and Coway recommends vacuuming them periodically. I didn’t need to replace mine during my testing window, but it’s very easy to swap out whenever it comes time—you just flip the unit upside down, untwist the top, pull out the old filter, and slide in your new one.
My experience: The Airmega 100 runs right about the size of a breadbox, at 15 1/2″ tall and a diameter of 8 3/4″. The cylindrical body (which intakes air from all directions) is inoffensive, if slightly conspicuous—it’s solid white, with functions integrated into a touchpad on a black top. An indicator detects particulate matter down to 2.5 microns, telling you about the state of your space in real time and illuminating blue when air quality is good, green when it’s moderate, orange when it’s unhealthy, and pink when it’s very unhealthy (which thankfully I never saw!). Airflow can adjust automatically based on air quality by using the device’s “Smart Mode.” If you’re bothered by glowing lights at night, good news: This model offers an amber-hued “night light” setting, or you can turn off lit features entirely.
