The most notable differences between the Honeywell HPA300 and Blueair 211 are filters, performance, and features. The Blueair 211 uses the newest HEPASilent technology, which combines mechanical filtration and electrostatic filtration to create a superior filter that is more efficient, quieter (about 56 decibels on high), lower energy use (30–60 watts), and covers a larger space (540 square feet).
The Honeywell HPA300 uses three standard True HEPA filters that work well in a smaller space (465 square feet) and at a lower price point, but it is louder (up to 62 decibels) and higher energy use (33–117 watts), also, the Blueair 211 has added smart features like app control, air-quality sensor to track air, and the Honeywell HPA300 has just simple touch controls with no smart features.
Quick Comparison Table
| FEATURE | HONEYWELL HPA300 | BLUEAIR 211 |
|---|---|---|
| Room Size | Up to 465 sq ft | Up to 650 sq ft |
| CADR (Smoke) | 180 CADR | 270 CADR |
| Filter Type | True HEPA + Carbon Pre-Filter | HEPASilent + Activated Carbon |
| Noise Level | 25–50 dB | 28–53 dB |
| Energy Use | 200W max | 45W max |
| Smart Features | No | Yes (Wi-Fi/App Control) |
| Filter Replacement | $60–$80 every 6–12 months | $100–$120 every 6–12 months |
| Price | $200–$250 | $300–$350 |
Design & Build Quality
Honeywell HPA300: Classic, Bulky Design
The HPA300 is a workhorse. Its tall rectangular footprint (12.5” x 8” x 22”) takes up some valuable floor real estate but it has a pretty solid internal mechanism. I like the air intakes on the front and the controls on top; very intuitive. The plastic body feels less premium than that of the Blueair, but for the price, I’m not complaining.
Blueair 211: Chic, Modern Minimalism.
The Blueair 211’s cylindrical shape (14.2” x 14.2” x 24.4”) transitions easily with modern decor. Its easy-clean matte finish doesn’t collect fingerprints and the touch panel (including childhood lock) is nice. Though the Blueair 211 is lightweight and easy to move, without any handles it’s slightly awkward to carry.
The verdict: As far as appearance goes, the Blueair has the advantage! The Honeywell is more utilitarian than stylish.
Performance: Speed and Efficiency
CADR and Airflow
- Honeywell HPA300 : 180 CADR for smoke. It is good for small spaces but struggle with anything over 400 sq ft. I used it in a 350 sq ft bedroom and it took ~30 minutes to eliminate the smoke from cooking.
- Blueair 211 : 270 CADR for smoke. In the same space as above, it cleared the smoke in under 15 minutes. The reason is Blueair’s HEPASilent technology (which uses mechanical filtration and electrical filtration to move air more quickly without raising the noise level).
Filtration Effectiveness
- Honeywell: True HEPA filter traps 99.97% of particles [ e.g. dust, pollen, etc] ≥0.3 microns; Carbon pre-filter designed for odors and VOCs, not as dense as Blueair.
- Blueair: Claims it captures 99.97% of particles [ e.g. including any viruses and ultrafine particles] down to 0.1 microns. Thicker carbon filter is superior against smoke and chemical odors.
Real-World Test: During wildfire season, the Blueair cleared PM2.5 particles 2x faster in my 600 sq ft living room.
Noise Levels: Quiet Mode Matters
Both operate in “sleep mode” but here are the differences:
Honeywell : It’s 25 dB on low (whisper-quiet) but it’s louder on high with a more traditional fan noise similar to a hairdryer ~50 dB
Blueair : On low it operates at 28 dB, but the high setting is 53 dB. The sound of the high-speed operation is a smooth whoosh but not disruptive in your sleep.
Suggestion: If you are a light sleeper, the quieter operation of the Blueair on the high-speed setting is worth the extra money.
Energy Efficiency: Long-Term Savings
- Honeywell : Uses ~200W on max power. Running 24/7 costs ~$18/month (at $0.12/kWh).
- Blueair : Only 45W max. Costs ~$4/month.
Over five years, the Blueair saves you ~$840 in energy bills.
Smart Features: Connectivity Counts
- Honeywell : Zero smart features. Manual controls only.
- Blueair : Wi-Fi-enabled with an app to monitor air quality, schedule runs, and adjust fan speeds remotely. It also includes a real-time particle sensor with color-coded feedback (green/orange/red).
Pro Insight: The Blueair’s app integration is invaluable for tracking indoor air quality trends.
Maintenance Costs: Filter Lifespan
- Honeywell : Filters last 6–12 months. Replacement cost ~$70.
- Blueair : Filters last 6–12 months. Replacement cost ~$110.
However, Blueair’s filters handle heavier pollution loads longer, balancing the higher upfront cost.
Brand Analysis: Heritage vs. Innovation
Honeywell: The Budget-Friendly Veteran
For over 100 years, Honeywell has been part of the HVAC industry. Their air purifiers are low-fidelity, inexpensive, loosening up the features and placing a greater emphasis on basic functionality. Honeywell does not innovate – there are no smart features, and their filters do not offer anything other than HEPA – but they can be a good option for Renters or small areas.
Blueair: Swedish Engineering to ensure the health of your home.
Founded in 1996, Blueair is a company focused on the use of health-focused technology. Their Air purifiers use the HEPASilent filters which are Energy Star rated, and the factories they are made in follow eco-oriented manufacturing. They are more expensive, but made for homes with allergy sufferers, pets, or those with sensitivities to chemicals.
Final Verdict: Who Should Buy What?
Choose the Honeywell HPA300 If:
- Your budget is under $250.
- You have a small room (<400 sq ft).
- You want simple, no-frills operation.
Choose the Blueair 211 If:
- You need coverage for large rooms (>500 sq ft).
- You want energy efficiency and smart controls.
- You suffer from severe allergies or live in a polluted area.
The Bottom Line
The Honeywell HPA300 is a great entry-level option, but the Blueair 211 outshines it in terms of speed, quiet operation, and long-term value. In my testing, I realized that the superior CADR and advanced filtration in the Blueair are ideal for health-conscious consumers, even if it costs more. If you can afford to spend more, I think this is a better investment.
