FilterBuy Vs. Filtrete Air Filters: Which is Better for Your Home?

If you’re looking to improve your indoor air quality, upgrading your air filters is one of the easiest and most effective things you can do. Two of the most popular brands of furnace and HVAC filters are FilterBuy and Filtrete. But which one is right for your home?

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll compare FilterBuy and Filtrete air filters to help you decide which is the better option. We’ll look at key factors like filtration performance, cost, durability, availability, and more. Read on to learn the pros and cons of each brand.

A Brief Comparison Table

Feature	FilterBuy	Filtrete
Cost	Less expensive, around $10-15 for common sizes	More expensive, $20-25+ for comparable filters
Filtration Performance	MERV 8 rating	MERV 8 up to MERV 13 ratings
Availability	Sold primarily online	Available at major home stores
Durability	Layered and pleated options	Pleated style
Specialty Options	Limited selection	Extensive variety of specialty filters
Ease of Use	Basic construction, arrows not obvious	Marked airflow arrows, unfolds easily
Change Frequency	Estimate 3-6 months	Intervals marked on packaging
Environmental Impact	Synthetic media, lower footprint	Fiberglass media, disposable

Key Differences Between FilterBuy And Fitrete Air Filters

Let’s Dive Deeper and explore the key differences between them:

• Filtration Performance

One of the most important considerations when choosing an air filter is its filtration performance—its ability to capture airborne particles like dust, pollen, pet dander, and smoke.

Both FilterBuy and Filtrete use a MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) rating to indicate a filter’s effectiveness. MERV ranges from 1-16, with higher numbers denoting better performance.

Most standard 1” filters have a MERV rating of 1-4. FilterBuy’s most common residential filters are MERV 8, while most Filtrete filters range from MERV 8 to 13.

So when it comes to particle removal, Filtrete filters tend to outperform FilterBuy overall. However, FilterBuy’s MERV 8 filters still offer decent filtration for many homeowners’ needs.

One advantage of FilterBuy’s MERV 8 filters is that they maintain their performance longer before needing to be changed. Higher MERV filters like those from Filtrete clog up faster.

So if you don’t have major indoor air quality issues, a MERV 8 FilterBuy filter will provide adequate filtration without needing to be replaced as often. But if allergies or asthma are a major concern, opting for a higher-rated Filtrete filter makes sense.

Also Read: Comparison Between FilterBuy And Nordic Pure Air Filters

• Cost Comparison

One of the biggest differences between these two brands is cost. FilterBuy air filters are significantly less expensive than comparable Filtrete models.

As an example, a standard 20x20x1 MERV 8 FilterBuy filter costs around $10-15. A similar Filtrete 1300 filter averages $20-25. The price gap widens as you look at higher rated filters.

Over time, choosing Filtrete can add up to greater costs. That said, the higher performance may justify the extra expense for some homeowners. People with serious indoor air quality issues may find the upgrade worthwhile.

FilterBuy is clearly the budget-friendly choice. Their prices are hard to beat on basic residential filters. Just keep in mind—you get what you pay for in terms of filtration performance.

• Availability

You can purchase air filters from both brands online through sites like Amazon. However, availability often differs at brick-and-mortar stores.

Filtrete filters are carried by all major home improvement stores, including Home Depot, Lowe’s, and Menards. So you can easily grab them while shopping for other items.

FilterBuy filters, on the other hand, are primarily sold online directly through their website. You won’t typically find them stocked at local stores.

So if convenience is a priority, Filtrete may have an advantage. FilterBuy requires a little more planning since you’ll need to order them online and wait for delivery.

• Durability

An air filter that falls apart quickly ends up being a waste of money, no matter how inexpensive. You want something durable that maintains filtration performance throughout its usable lifespan.

By most accounts, both FilterBuy and Filtrete filters earn good marks for durability. Many homeowners report getting 3-6 months of use before needing a change.

One difference is that FilterBuy offers both layered and pleated filters, while Filtrete only sells pleated.

Pleated filters tend to hold their shape better over time. The pleats expand to provide more surface area for trapping particles.

So if longevity is your main concern, opt for a pleated style from either brand. Filtrete’s pleated filters may maintain peak performance a bit longer than FilterBuy’s layered filters.

• Specialty Options

While we’ve focused on standard 1” furnace filters so far, both brands offer specialty filters for specific needs:

1. High airflow filters: Designed for systems that need minimal airflow restriction, like mini-splits and portable ACs.
2. Electrostatic filters: Charge particles to enhance capture of fine particles below 1 micron. Helpful for severe allergies.
3. HEPA-type filters: Trap over 99% of particles above 0.3 microns in size. Provide high-level filtration.
4. Odor-reducing filters: Contain activated carbon to absorb household odors and VOCs.
5. Allergen-reducing filters: Have an extra electrostatic layer to catch more pet dander, mold, dust mites.

Filtrete has a broader selection of these specialty filters compared to FilterBuy. So if you’re looking for a filter with specific enhanced properties, Filtrete is the way to go.

FilterBuy focuses more on basic filters for most residential HVAC systems. Their selection of premium specialty air filters is more limited.

• Ease of Use

Replacing air filters sounds simple, but many homeowners install them incorrectly. This prevents the filter from working properly.

Filtrete air filters are designed for quick, fool-proof installation. They have clearly marked arrows showing the proper airflow direction. The sturdy cardboard frame also unfolds easily.

FilterBuy filters feature a basic construction without the user-friendly touches. The directional arrows are less obvious, and the filter may arrive folded up.

For DIY homeowners new to changing filters, Filtrete’s design makes replacement nearly effortless. FilterBuy filters work fine but involve a little more handiwork to install correctly.

Watch this review video:

• Longevity of Use

Air filters are disposable products, not lifetime purchases. You’ll need to change them regularly to maintain air flow and filtration.

FilterBuy does not provide an official guideline on their packaging for when to swap filters. As a general rule of thumb, their MERV 8 filters will last around 3-6 months with average use.

Filtrete includes handy stickers on each filter that display the recommended change interval. This takes the guesswork out of deciding when you need a new one.

Following Filtrete’s guidelines helps ensure you’re getting optimal performance. And replacing on schedule improves the longevity of your HVAC system by preventing clogged air flow.

So Filtrete makes it easier to know when it’s time to swap for a fresh filter. FilterBuy requires keeping your own calendar.

• Environmental Impact

Indoor air quality isn’t the only consideration—you also want an eco-friendly filter option.

FilterBuy’s filters are incinerated after use, while Filtrete’s are generally landfilled. Neither brand offers recycling programs currently.

However, FilterBuy’s synthetic media has a smaller environmental footprint than Filtrete’s fiberglass construction. Fewer resources go into making FilterBuy’s filters.

So while neither is an ideal green option, FilterBuy has a slight edge. But improving your home’s air quality also benefits your family’s health —a worthwhile trade-off for both brands’ filters.

Also Read: Comparison Between Aerostar And Filtrete Air Filters

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Also Read: Comparison Between Nordic Pure And Filtrete

The Bottom Line

Here’s a quick recap of the major differences between these two brands:

FilterBuy

• Less expensive
• Lower MERV ratings (mostly 8)
• Available primarily online
• Limited specialty filter options
• Shorter lifespan
• Synthetic media with lower eco-impact

Filtrete

• Higher filtration performance
• MERV 8 up to MERV 13 ratings
• Sold at major home stores
• Wide selection of specialty filters
• Directional packaging for easy installation
• Recommended change intervals on filters

For cost-conscious homeowners that want a basic, affordable filter, FilterBuy is the best bet. If your priority is higher performance and specialty options, go with Filtrete.

Ultimately, it depends on your specific needs and air quality concerns. Assessing the pros and cons of each can help you pick the right brand for your home and budget.