Air purifiers have become increasingly popular in recent years as people look for ways to improve the air quality in their homes. Two of the top brands on the market are IQAir and Coway.
But which one is better? This comprehensive guide compares the key features, performance, design, cost, and other factors to help you decide.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | IQAir | Coway |
| Filtration Stages | Up to 6 | Up to 4 |
| Filters | HyperHEPA, Activated Carbon | True HEPA, Activated Carbon |
| Room Coverage | Up to 1,125 sq. ft. | Up to 361 sq. ft. |
| Noise Level | 24 – 68 dB | 22 – 53 dB |
| Dimensions | 16 – 28″ H x 15 – 16″ W | 12 – 23″ H x 8 – 15″ W |
| Display | Digital | LED lights |
| Smart Features | App, Voice Control | App, Air Quality Indicator |
| Warranty | 5 years | 3 years |
| Price Range | $600 – $1,100 | $150 – $700 |
Overview of IQAir
IQAir air purifiers utilize a hyper-efficient filtration system with up to 6 stages to remove allergens, odors, gases, VOCs, and the most microscopic particles.
Their patented HyperHEPA filter is 100x more effective than standard HEPA filters, able to capture particles down to 0.003 microns in size with 99.97% efficiency.
Some key strengths of IQAir purifiers include:
- Advanced filtration with pre-filter, VOC filter, HyperHEPA filter, and optional activated carbon filter
- Low noise levels, even on the highest fan speed
- Large room coverage from 465 to 1,125 sq. ft. depending on the model
- Sophisticated, minimalist design in neutral colors
- Digital display shows current air quality, fan speed, filter life, and other metrics
- Remote control for easy operation across the room
- Mobile app and voice control for controlling your purifier anywhere
The main downsides of IQAir are the high upfront cost and ongoing filter replacement costs. However, fans of the brand rave about their durable construction, consistent performance, and excellent air purification capabilities.
Overview of Coway
Coway air purifiers feature a compact, modern design and utilize Coway’s patented HyperCaptive filtration with True HEPA and activated carbon filters. Their MAX2 filter is designed to capture particles as small as 0.01 microns.
Here are some notable features of Coway purifiers:
- Streamlined tower design in white or black housing
- 2 to 4 filtration stages with pre-filter, True HEPA, and activated carbon
- Covers rooms up to 361 sq. ft.
- Very quiet operation from 22 to 53 decibels
- Air quality indicator uses different colored LED lights
- Timer, auto, sleep, and eco modes
- Pollution and filter change indicators
- Mobile app connectivity
Compared to IQAir, Coway air purifiers are more affordable upfront and have cheaper ongoing filter costs. They offer similar high performance but in a more compact size. The main complaint is the smaller room coverage compared to IQAir models.
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Key Differences Between IQAir and Coway
Now, let’s take a deeper look at how IQAir and Coway stack up in key categories:
Filtration Technology
- IQAir uses a hyper-efficient filtration system with up to 6 stages: prefilter, gas filter, HyperHEPA filter, outer filter sleeve, and 2 optional activated carbon filters. This system can capture particles down to 0.003 microns with 99.97% efficiency.
- Coway air purifiers use a 4-stage filtration system: pre-filter, carbon filter, True HEPA filter, and deactivated carbon filter. Their HyperCaptive technology filters particles as small as 0.01 microns.
- Both brands utilize industry-leading HEPA filters that outperform standard HEPA. IQAir’s HyperHEPA technology gives it the edge for the most thorough filtration down to the smallest particles.
Room Coverage
- IQAir purifiers cover anywhere from 465 to 1,125 sq. ft. depending on the specific model. The larger models provide purification for very large open spaces.
- Coway air purifiers have a smaller max room capacity of 361 sq. ft. Their compact units work well for smaller rooms and apartments but can’t match IQAir for large spaces.
- If you need an air purifier for a big room or open floor plan, IQAir is the better choice. For smaller homes and rooms under 400 sq ft, Coway provides sufficient coverage.
Noise Levels
- IQAir purifiers operate very quietly, ranging from 24 dB on the lowest setting up to 68 dB on turbo speed. This makes them excellent for bedrooms or offices.
- Coway units are also remarkably quiet for the purification power they deliver, ranging from 22 dB to 53 dB. The fan is virtually silent on the lowest speed.
- Both brands build their air purifiers for quiet and peaceful operation. Noise levels are similar and impressively low across models from Coway and IQAir.
Design and Dimensions
- IQAir units have a sleek, contemporary style with rounded corners and neutral white/gray plastic housing. Dimensions range from 16-28″ in height and 15-16″ in diameter depending on model.
- Coway purifiers feature a striking modern tower design in white or black. They are more compact with dimensions spanning 12-23″ in height and only 8-15″ in width.
- For a large but unobtrusive unit, IQAir wins for design. Coway purifiers have a smaller footprint and more stylish look perfect for apartments and bedrooms.
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Filters and Cost
- IQAir filters last 12-24 months depending on use and have high replacement costs from $99-$199 each. Total annual costs average $200+.
- Coway filters last about 12 months and replacement filters cost between $50-$90 per set. Expect to spend around $100 annually.
- Coway has significantly lower operating costs for filters. But IQAir filters may last slightly longer with their higher-end filtration technology.
Smart Features
- IQAir purifiers can connect to the iOS/Android app to control, monitor, and track data remotely. Some models also have native Alexa or Google Assistant support.
- Coway units integrate with a mobile app to control settings and features. They also have intuitive manual controls and an air quality indicator ring that changes color.
- For smart home integration, IQAir wins for having direct voice assistant compatibility. But Coway still offers app connectivity and helpful auto modes.
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Warranty and Customer Support
- IQAir purifiers come with a 5-year limited warranty. They earn positive reviews for solid construction quality and great customer service.
- Coway air purifiers feature a 3-year limited warranty. The brand gets high marks for responsive customer support and honor their warranty claims.
- Both brands provide strong warranties backing their products. IQAir edges out for the longer 5-year coverage.
Pricing and Value
- IQAir purifiers range from $600 on the low end up to $1,100 for larger room models. Filter replacements are pricey but infrequent.
- Coway units are more affordable at $150 to $700 depending on the model. Replacement filters cost less than IQAir’s.
- Coway products offer better value for budget-conscious buyers. But IQAir delivers premium performance and filtration that justifies the higher investment for some.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
IQAir air purifiers are expensive, but many users find them worth the investment for their commercial-grade filtration, low noise, large room capacity, and durability. People living with allergies and asthma often report great results using IQAir models to remove allergens. Their high-end filtration can make a real impact on indoor air quality.
Yes, Coway is one of the top-rated air purifier brands on the market. Their combination of HEPA filtration, compact size, quiet operation, and energy efficiency makes them a favorite among reviewers and consumers. For the performance Coway units deliver at a reasonable price point, they are a great value purchase for many people.
The main downsides of Coway air purifiers are the smaller room coverage compared to larger units and the filter replacements that must be purchased yearly. While their 361 sq. ft. capacity works well for small to medium rooms, Coway can’t match the huge 1,125+ sq. ft. coverage provided by some IQAir and other brands’ models. The filters also must be changed annually, generating an ongoing cost.
IQAir filters last an estimated 12-24 months before needing replacement, depending on model and usage. Their higher filtration efficiency does mean pricier filter replacement costs, but the intervals are longer than cheaper filters that may need changing every 6 months. With average use, plan on replacing IQAir filters about once every 1-2 years.
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Final Thoughts
For their combination of medical-grade filtration, low noise, app/voice control, and large room capacity, IQAir purifiers are the top choice for severe allergies and asthma. The impressive air cleaning results and 5-year warranty make the high price tag worthwhile for some buyers.
On a budget, Coway delivers stellar performance and energy efficiency in a compact form factor. Their affordable filter replacements and quiet operation make them ideal for small bedrooms and apartments. While IQAir wins on premium features, Coway takes the title for value.
When choosing between these two brands, take into account your room size, filtration needs, noise tolerance, and budget.
Both IQAir and Coway manufacture excellent, top-performing air purifiers with the latest technology. Keep the key differences in mind, and you can pick the model that’s right for any space and air quality needs.