This is a strictly factual, number-heavy comparison of Dyson’s two mainstream tower purifiers: TP07 (Purifier Cool) and TP09 (Purifier Cool Formaldehyde). You’ll find independently measured CADR and noise figures, room-cleaning speed data, current sales context, brand history and awards, allergy-season outlook for 2025, expert guidance, user-experience pros/cons, and clear guidance on who should pick which model.
What Actually Differs
- Filtration stack
- TP07: HEPA H13 + activated carbon.
- TP09: Same + solid-state formaldehyde sensor and a catalytic filter that breaks down formaldehyde into CO₂ and H₂O (no consumable life), aimed at VOC control during renovations/new furniture off-gassing. (dyson.com)
- Independently verified performance (CADR & room size, ENERGY STAR)
- TP07: Smoke CADR 80.7 cfm; rated room size 125 ft² (80% smoke removal in 60 minutes at 1 ACH).
- TP09: Smoke CADR 82.1 cfm; rated room size 127 ft² (same basis). (ENERGY STAR)
- Manufacturer acoustic & airflow limits (official tech sheets)
- Both: Primary airflow (purifier mode) 45.6 L/s (~96.6 cfm); 10 speeds; 350° oscillation.
- Noise: 46 dB (at low flow, spec sheet “speed 4”) up to ~61.5 dB at max. (Dyson)
- What that means: In raw particulate cleaning throughput (CADR), they’re essentially equal. The TP09’s value is the added formaldehyde detection & destruction—useful if you care about aldehydes (new flooring, furniture, paints, pressed wood).
Core Specifications (side-by-side)
| Category | Dyson TP07 | Dyson TP09 |
|---|---|---|
| HEPA rating | H13 (fully sealed machine) | H13 (fully sealed) + formaldehyde sensor & catalytic filter |
| Primary airflow (purify mode) | 45.6 L/s ≈ 96.6 cfm | 45.6 L/s ≈ 96.6 cfm |
| Max fan airflow (fan mode) | 290 L/s | 290–390 L/s (regional spec sheets list 290–390 L/s) |
| ENERGY STAR Smoke CADR | 80.7 cfm | 82.1 cfm |
| ENERGY STAR room size ref. | 125 ft² | 127 ft² |
| Speed settings / Oscillation | 10 / 350° | 10 / 350° |
| Manufacturer sound levels | 46–61.5 dB | 46–~61.5 dB (regional sheet 59.7–61.5 dB at max) |
| App / voice | MyDyson app, Alexa/Google/Siri | Same |
| Typical street price (Sep 2025)* | Frequently \$299–\$449 on sale (varies by retailer) | MSRP \$749.99, often discounted (e.g., \$549.99 on Dyson.com during holiday promos) |
*Pricing fluctuates with seasonal promos; for example, late-summer/early-fall 2025 deal roundups and Dyson’s own site showed notable discounts on purifiers including TP09. Always check current listings. (Homes and Gardens, dyson.com)
Sources: Official TP07/TP09 tech specs (airflow, noise); ENERGY STAR listings (CADR, room size); Dyson product pages (filtration). (Dyson, ENERGY STAR)
Independent Test Results (not from Dyson marketing)
CADR and Efficiency
- ENERGY STAR (standardized lab protocol)
- TP07: Smoke CADR 80.7 cfm; Dust 89.8 cfm; Pollen 95.9 cfm; room size 125 ft² (80% smoke removal in one hour, 1 ACH).
- TP09: Smoke CADR 82.1 cfm (ENERGY STAR database). (ENERGY STAR)
Interpretation: CADR for both models is modest for their price class; they’re best used in small bedrooms/offices if you want allergy-grade air exchanges (e.g., 4–5 ACH). Energy Star’s room size is conservative (1 ACH, 80% smoke removal in an hour). (ENERGY STAR)
Room-Cleaning Speed (real-room tests)
- TP07 (HouseFresh lab): 728 ft² test room to “clean” target: ~49 minutes at top speed; sub-45 dB PM1 CADR 58 cfm and top-speed PM1 CADR 94 cfm. HouseFresh also reported AHAM PM2.5 Dust CADR 89.8 cfm, aligning with ENERGY STAR. (HouseFresh)
Measured Noise (dB)
- TP07 (Rtings): 39.6–50.5 dBA depending on speed/settings (lab tested). (RTINGS.com)
- TP07 (HouseFresh, ~3 ft): 38.9 dB (speed 1) → 56 dB (speed 4); increases beyond that at higher speeds. (HouseFresh)
- TP07 & TP09 (official tech sheets): roughly 46 dB at low flow (spec sheet “speed 4”) and ~61–61.5 dB at max flow. Homes & Gardens and Dyson’s regional spec pages reference ~59.8 dB for TP09 in formaldehyde edition. (Specs vary slightly by region and measurement method.) (Dyson, ACAAI Patient)
Formaldehyde Handling (what TP09 adds)
- TP09 detects and breaks down formaldehyde continuously using a solid-state sensor and alumina-based catalytic filter that does not need replacing (it regenerates via oxygen). This is the only material difference vs TP07 in filtration capability. (dyson.com)
Sales Context (Amazon, Best Buy, Dyson.com)
- Dyson.com (reviews & recent pricing): The official TP09 page shows thousands of verified reviews and periodic price-drop promotions (e.g., listed \$549.99 during Labor Day period in 2025). (dyson.com)
- Amazon U.S.: TP07 and TP09 listings regularly display “50+ bought in past week”/“100+ in the past month” type flags, indicating sustained demand; precise counts fluctuate. (Амазон)
- Best Buy: Live listing snapshots show 4.6/5-ish average ratings across Dyson purifier SKUs with hundreds of reviews; counts vary by color/SKU and date. Treat retailer counts as dynamic snapshots, not absolutes.
What to infer: Dyson’s TP07/TP09 are consistently visible across majors (Dyson.com, Amazon, Best Buy), with regular promotional spikes around Labor Day, Prime Days, and Black Friday. (Homes and Gardens, Architectural Digest)
Brand History & Recognition (why Dyson is everywhere)
- Engineering milestones: Dyson launched the Air Multiplier™ bladeless fan in 2009, establishing the tower silhouette that later became TP-series purifiers. Dyson emphasizes fully sealed H13 designs (“what goes inside, stays inside”). (dyson.com)
- Awards: Dyson purifiers and related air-treatment products have won Red Dot distinctions (e.g., Pure Cool Link in 2016), among many Dyson product awards across categories. (Harvard Health)
- Health recognition: The asthma & allergy friendly® program has certified multiple air cleaners; while the National Psoriasis Foundation seal applies to a different Dyson category (PH models), it illustrates Dyson’s engagement with health-standards programs. (asthmaandallergyfriendly.com, GoodRx)
Seasonal & Trend (2025)
- Allergy burden outlook: AAFA’s Allergy Capitals 2025 report continues to spot very high pollen burdens in many U.S. metros; climate-driven longer pollen seasons remain a concern into 2025–26. (AAFA’s report compiles pollen data, medication use, and board-certified allergist availability.)
- Public-health guidance: The EPA (Mar 2025) updated guidance on portable air cleaners, reinforcing CADR-based sizing and HEPA filtration as practical tools; CDC/NIOSH similarly recommend HEPA fan/filter systems to improve indoor air cleanliness. (US EPA, CDC)
- Promos & releases: 2025 Labor Day and seasonal events highlighted significant Dyson purifier discounts, and Dyson’s newer lines (e.g., BP “Big+Quiet” and TP10 family) continue to circulate in deal coverage, affecting TP07/TP09 street prices. (Homes and Gardens)
Expert & Medical Guidance (short, actionable)
- AAAAI patient guidance: A HEPA air purifier traps and reduces airborne particles such as pollen, pet dander, dust mites, and smoke in the breathing zone; it won’t remove settled allergens from surfaces (you still need cleaning). (aaaai.org)
- EPA consumer guide (2025): Pick by CADR and match to room size; avoid ozone-generating devices; use purifiers as adjuncts to source control and ventilation. (US EPA)
- Peer-reviewed review (Sublett et al.): Portable HEPA room air cleaners, especially near the bed, appear beneficial for allergic patients. (PMC)
Implication for Dyson TP07 vs TP09: If your problem is pollen/pet dander/dust, either model suffices; if you have new cabinetry/flooring or strong VOC/formaldehyde concerns, the TP09’s sensor + catalytic filter is the differentiator. (dyson.com)
Field Notes from Testing & Users (what people actually notice)
Positives frequently reported
- Quiet at low speeds/night mode; measured ~39–45 dBA at gentle settings in lab tests (TP07). (RTINGS.com, HouseFresh)
- Design & app: wide oscillation, slim footprint, MyDyson app insights, easy scheduling and AQ graphs. Recent editorial testing of TP09 praised responsiveness to PM2.5/PM10/VOCs/NO₂ and overall experience. (TechRadar)
- Safety & airflow feel: smooth bladeless airstream that’s comfortable for bedroom use.
Frequently cited drawbacks
- Price-to-CADR value: Several independent reviewers argue Dyson’s CADR per dollar is low vs. performance-first boxes from Coway/Blueair/Shark. TechHive’s TP09 review was notably critical on value/performance grounds. (consumeranalysis.com)
- Odor removal expectations: Carbon helps with some odors/VOCs, but results vary; even favorable TP09 testing notes odor removal isn’t its strong suit. (TechRadar)
- Filter cost: Replacement filters are pricier than commodity HEPA cylinders; expect annual replacement for the HEPA+carbon (the TP09’s catalytic formaldehyde element does not need replacing).
Comparative Pros & Cons (by model)
Dyson TP07 — Pros
- Same particulate filtration throughput (CADR ~80–90 cfm class) as TP09 at a lower price. (ENERGY STAR)
- Quiet at night-mode/low speeds; independent labs show <45–50 dBA in typical bedroom operation. (RTINGS.com, HouseFresh)
- Full app/voice features; 350° oscillation; sealed H13 build. (dyson.com)
Cons
- No formaldehyde sensor/catalyst—you only get HEPA + carbon.
- Room size reality: At Energy-Star-style references, 125 ft²; to hit 4–5 ACH for significant allergy relief, keep it to ~50–80 ft² or step up to faster-cleaning units (or use multiple units). (ENERGY STAR)
Dyson TP09 — Pros
- Formaldehyde detection & destruction, continuously; no consumable catalyst. Ideal around new furniture, flooring, paints, pressed wood. (dyson.com)
- Otherwise identical particulate performance and acoustics to TP07. ENERGY STAR Smoke CADR ~82 cfm. (ENERGY STAR)
Cons
- Premium price vs. almost identical particulate performance to TP07.
- Value critique persists in some reviews; odor removal limited by modest carbon capacity. (consumeranalysis.com, TechRadar)
“Who Should Buy Which?” (with numbers & scenarios)
1) Allergy-focused bedroom (pollen, dust mites, pet dander)
- Pick: TP07 (save money), or TP09 only if you also care about aldehydes/VOCs.
- Sizing: ENERGY STAR room-size reference is ~125–127 ft² at 1 ACH. For 4–5 ACH (allergy/asthma best practice at night), target rooms ≤ ~50–80 ft² per unit—or place a unit near the bed for a high “breathing-zone” effect. (ENERGY STAR, PMC)
- Noise: Expect ~40–45 dBA at gentle night settings (independent). (RTINGS.com)
2) New baby nursery or post-renovation room (concern: formaldehyde/VOCs)
- Pick: TP09. The built-in solid-state formaldehyde sensor + catalytic destruction is the real differentiator. You still get HEPA H13, but more importantly targeted aldehyde control. Keep doors/windows mostly shut to let CADR work. (dyson.com)
3) Open-plan living rooms (≥250 ft²)
- Reality check: With Smoke CADR ~80–82 cfm, one TP07/TP09 will not deliver fast multi-ACH cleaning in large spaces. Either use multiple units, or consider a higher-CADR alternative for that zone and keep the Dyson for bedrooms/offices. (This “value gap” is a frequent point in independent reviews.) (ENERGY STAR, consumeranalysis.com)
4) Odor-sensitive users (cooking smells, strong fragrances)
- Expectation setting: Carbon helps, but TP07/TP09 are not odor powerhouses. If VOC/odor control is your primary need, look for larger carbon mass designs or run the Dyson continuously on higher speed while cooking. (TP09’s catalyst specifically targets formaldehyde; it’s not a broad-spectrum odor eraser.) (TechRadar)
How They Compare to the Wider Market (context you should know)
- CADR-per-dollar: Independent labs frequently note that Dyson’s throughput is modest for the price, compared to performance-centric boxes from Coway/Blueair/Shark that publish higher CADR at similar or lower prices (though with less elegant design/UX). TechHive’s TP09 review is blunt about this. (consumeranalysis.com)
- Why people still buy Dyson:
- Industrial design & safety (bladeless), quiet tone at night, 350° oscillation, app polish, and multi-function appeal.
- Formaldehyde story (TP09) is rare among big brands—Dyson’s catalyst and sensor integration is well-executed. (dyson.com, TechRadar)
Extended Test Details (for the data-hungry)
Energy & Sound Envelopes (manufacturer)
- TP07/TP09 tech sheets list: Primary airflow (purifier) 45.6 L/s (= ~96.6 cfm). Sound: ~46 dB at low (“speed 4” spec), rising to ~61–61.5 dB at max. (TP09 regional sheet lists 59.7 dB max fan mode in some markets; measurement standards vary.) (Dyson)
Independent Acoustics & Cleaning
- TP07 (Rtings): 39.6–50.5 dBA; good nighttime usability. (RTINGS.com)
- TP07 (HouseFresh): Noise ~39–56 dB in lower speeds; 49-min full-room clean in a 728 ft² test at high speed (longer than higher-CADR boxes). PM1 CADR measured 58 cfm (sub-45 dB) and 94 cfm (top speed). (HouseFresh)
Formaldehyde (why it matters)
- A common indoor VOC emitted by glues/resins in composite woods, some paints, and textiles. The TP09’s sensor is solid-state (doesn’t drift like electrochemical over time) and the catalyst is designed to break formaldehyde down rather than just adsorb it—no replacement cycle. (dyson.com)
Buying Timing & Deals (2025)
- When to buy: Historical deal patterns favor Labor Day, Prime Days, and Black Friday. In 2025, multiple outlets showed meaningful markdowns on Dyson purifiers including TP09/TP10/BP04, with Dyson’s own store listing TP09 at \$549.99 at times. (Homes and Gardens, dyson.com)
Practical Setup Tips (to get the most from either model)
- Right-size the room to your CADR (don’t expect fast results in big living rooms from a single unit). ENERGY STAR’s room-size table is a good baseline. (ENERGY STAR)
- Place it near the problem and where you breathe (bedside/desk), per clinical reviews—especially helpful overnight for allergic rhinitis sufferers. (PMC)
- Run it continuously during allergy season; use Auto mode for convenience, but favor fixed higher speeds for rapid cleanup after triggers (cleaning, guests, cooking).
- Seal the room while purifying (doors/windows mostly closed) to let CADR work. EPA guidance emphasizes purifiers as adjuncts to source control and ventilation; follow cooking/cleaning source-control best practices. (US EPA)
Verdict
If you only care about pollen/pet dander/dust and want Dyson’s design & quietness:
Choose TP07. You’ll get nearly identical particulate performance and acoustics to TP09 for less money. In small rooms (bedrooms/home offices), it’s a pleasant, quiet operator. (ENERGY STAR, RTINGS.com)
If you also care about formaldehyde/VOCs from new materials (nursery, remodel, new furniture):
Choose TP09. The formaldehyde sensor + catalytic filter is the only reason to pay the premium—and it’s a good one for aldehyde-sensitive use cases. (dyson.com)
If your top priority is fast cleaning in a large space or maximum CADR per dollar:
Neither TP07 nor TP09 is ideal as a single large-room solution. Consider higher-CADR alternatives for big zones, or deploy multiple units and keep a Dyson tower for bedrooms. (Independent reviewers consistently flag Dyson’s value-per-CFM.) (consumeranalysis.com)
Appendix: Additional Comparable Facts & Figures
Quick math on coverage (rule-of-thumb)
- At 80–82 cfm Smoke CADR, to achieve 5 ACH (allergy-grade) you’d target roughly:
- Room volume = CADR × 60 / (ACH × 60) ≈ CADR / ACH (in cfm vs cfm).
- For 8-ft ceilings, 80 cfm / 5 ≈ 16 cfm per ACH → ~128 ft³ per minute; per hour that supports a small room. In practice, 50–80 ft² bedrooms work well.
Manufacturer noise vs. lab noise (why numbers differ)
- Dyson’s sheets cite 46 dB at “speed 4” and ~61 dB at max; independent labs measure dBA from fixed distances (1 m/3 ft). Expect ~40 dBA at gentle speeds in a typical quiet bedroom. (RTINGS.com)
Why formaldehyde merits a special sensor
- Formaldehyde is a small, persistent molecule that can pass through generic VOC sensors and desorb from carbon. Dyson’s solid-state sensor resists drift and the catalyst breaks CH₂O into CO₂ + H₂O—no saturated media to replace. If your nose burns around new MDF/particleboard, paint, or flooring, you’re in TP09 territory. (dyson.com)
Final Recommendation Matrix
| Your situation | Pick | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Small bedroom/home office; seasonal allergies | TP07 | Same particulate CADR as TP09; quieter than typical box purifiers at low speeds; lower cost. (ENERGY STAR, RTINGS.com) |
| Nursery/remodel/new furniture; aldehyde concern | TP09 | Formaldehyde sensing + catalytic destruction (no replacement) on top of HEPA H13. (dyson.com) |
| Large open space (≥250 ft²), want rapid clean | Neither (1 unit) | CADR ~80–82 cfm is modest; use multiple units or a higher-CADR model for that zone. (ENERGY STAR, consumeranalysis.com) |
| Odor-heavy kitchen/living area | Depends | TP09 helps with formaldehyde; for broad odors, larger carbon mass models may outperform Dyson; run continuously at higher speeds when cooking. (TechRadar) |
| You value design, safety, app, oscillation | Either | Same ergonomics and UX; pick based on formaldehyde need. (dyson.com) |
Sources & Notes
- ENERGY STAR TP07/TP09 listings (CADR/room size/efficiency). (ENERGY STAR)
- Official Dyson technical sheets (airflow, noise, oscillation): TP07 & TP09 regional PDFs. (Dyson)
- Independent lab tests: Rtings (TP07 noise & performance) and HouseFresh (TP07 CADR/PM & 49-min clean in 728 ft²). (RTINGS.com, HouseFresh)
- Formaldehyde system details: Dyson product page for TP09. (dyson.com)
- Allergy/air-cleaning guidance: AAFA 2025 Allergy Capitals, EPA 2025 guide, CDC/NIOSH, AAAAI patient page, and a peer-reviewed HEPA review (Sublett et al.). (US EPA, CDC, aaaai.org, PMC)
- Deals & sales context (2025): Homes & Gardens Labor Day 2025 deals roundup; Dyson.com TP09 price snapshot. (Homes and Gardens, dyson.com)
- Critical perspective on value: TechHive TP09 review. (consumeranalysis.com)
- Additional editorial testing: TechRadar (2025) TP09 hands-on notes; Homes & Gardens spec references. (TechRadar, ACAAI Patient)
Bottom Line
- TP07 and TP09 are equally capable at moving particles out of air in small rooms (CADR ≈ 80–82 cfm).
- TP09 earns its premium only if you need formaldehyde detection & destruction.
- For fast cleaning of big spaces, you’ll need more CADR than either TP07 or TP09 delivers—or multiple units.
Choose by pollutant profile (allergens vs aldehydes) and room size, and use the deal cycle to land the right price. (ENERGY STAR, Homes and Gardens)
