10 Best Car Air Purifiers & Ionizers Reviewed in 2024
Urban life has many advantages, but it also comes with some downsides. Air quality is a growing concern in modern society, which holds especially true for city dwellers. You may already have an air-purifying system installed in your home, but what about your car? We spend large chunks of our time driving from point A to point B and the air quality during that time is just as important as air quality in your home. Enter car air purifiers. A range of products designed to make the air you breathe while driving, healthier.
The air in your car is just as affected by pollution as the air outside is. To make matters worse, car air quality is also affected by particles and chemicals that come from the car itself, so investing in a car air purifier might not be a bad idea. There is a wide variety of products using different technologies to make the air in your vehicle healthier by removing allergens, odors, and other chemical particles. Some of the most popular technologies include ionization, filtration, and ozone generation. How can you tell which one will work best for you and your car? There is an overwhelming amount of options out there, so choosing the right product can be tricky. We have compiled a list of the best products out there, giving you the chance to pick the product that will most suit your lifestyle.
Featured Recommendations
- Valiry
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Our rating - 100% money back guarantee
- Price: See Here
- Phillips GoPure
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Our rating - "Healthy Air" Indicator
- Price: See Here
- FRiEQ
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Our rating - Compact & Attractive Design
- Price: See Here
Most car air purifiers are very easy to use and require little to no maintenance. Depending on your preference, you can opt for a unit that uses HEPA filtration or an ionizing unit. The products based on filtration seem to work faster and get better results, although they do represent a bigger initial investment and require some maintenance. The ionizers on the market are smaller and less expensive, and they work by emitting negative ions which bind to harmful particles and make them stick to surfaces instead of floating in the air. The downside of this system is that you might have to clean your car surfaces more often, as they will get covered in dust.
10 Best Car Air Purifiers
1. Valiry
This unit emits a large amount of negative ions that bind to harmful particles in the air. This makes them stick to the surface instead of floating in the air, making the air you breathe cleaner.
2-In-1-Device
In addition to making the air cleaner, this product also serves as a charger. It has two USB ports, so you can charge your phone or tablet on the go.
Cost and Value
When it comes to price-performance, you get the most bang for your buck with the Valiry. Since it doubles as a charger, you’re getting two products for the price of one.
Easy to use
Small and inconspicuous
Inexpensive
Two additional USB ports
Effective at removing bad odours
Pollen and dirt particles eventually build up on the car surfaces
2. Phillips GoPure
This unique technology is particularly good at getting rid of tobacco smoke residue, being about three times more effective than products using ionizing technology.
Clean air indicator
A system for sensing the density of air particles enables this product to assess the air quality in the car. Different colour lights indicate whether the air quality is excellent, fair or poor.
Cost and Value
This product is very pricey compared to the products using ionizing technology, but it also promises to deliver better results. New filters need to be purchased from time to time, which increases the overall cost.
Sturdy build
Great for eliminating tobacco smell
Noticeable difference within minutes
Air quality indicator
Expensive
Requires maintenance
3. FRiEQ
By emitting a concentration of 4.8 million anions per cm3 the FRiEQ does a good job fighting harmful particles floating in the air. It effectively reduces pollutant particles in your car.
Attractive design
This product is one of the smallest and most stylish looking car air purifiers in the market. When plugged in its LED gives off a calming, pleasant light.
Cost and Value
As far as ionizers go, you will definitely get the most for your money with this product. Its competitive price coupled with its efficiency makes it quite the bargain.
Gives off a fresh smell
Does not require maintenance
Works great for cigarette smell
Stylish
Can take a few days before the effect is noticeable
Some customers report its difficult to plug in
4. Homdox
This unit can be used in your car, indoors and even outdoors. It is lightweight and easy to use which makes it easy to bring it with you to use in any situation.
Long lasting filters
The filters in this unit need to be replaced every 6 to 9 months, depending on the frequency of use. This means the maintenance cost is lower than with most filtration units.
Cost and Value
Although this product is pricier than the ionizers and needs some degree of maintenance, it delivers great results, making the initial investment worthwhile.
Air quality indicator
Portable
One year warranty
Good for people with asthma
Can be noisy
Some customers report quality issues
5. YONTEX
This product features two charging ports on top of the device. They both charge at 2.4 amps. One of the charging ports, however, is 2.4 amp with Quick Charge 3.0. Simply put, this particular port will charge your devices faster.
No Filter
Unlike a lot of other similar products on the market, this product doesn't require any filters to operate. This saves you money in the long run as you aren't required to purchase anything further once you own the device.
Cost & Value
This handy device is one of the more affordable options on our top ten list. It provides a lot of value, not only in its air purifying skills, but also because it doubles as a dual USB charger.
Modern appearance
Digital display
Quiet operation
Fast smell-neutralizing
Lines on side of the device are purely aesthetic
6. Nova 2-In-1
The Nova 2-In-1 emits as many as 5.6 million negative ions per cm3, which ensures it deals with harmful particles in a very effective way. It does its job well even in heavily polluted areas.
Ozone generator
This product generates safe levels of ozone to remove any unpleasant smells. The ozone interacts with odour causing chemicals in a way that renders them odourless. This works well for most bad smells.
Cost and Value
This product ensures high quality performance without making a dent in your bank account. It is affordable and effective. In addition the company offers a 1 year warranty.
Uses two different technologies
Two additional USB ports
1 year warranty
Easy to use
Anti-microbial function
Noisy
7. Lightsmax
The Lightsmax 2018 is a very small unit that you simply plug into the cigarette lighter outlet of your car and you don’t have to worry about it anymore. It doesn’t require any maintenance.
Ionizing technology
Emitting a large amount of negative ions is proven to be one of the best technologies out there for battling harmful and allergy causing particles. This small unit emits a powerful amount of negative ions.
Cost and Value
Compared to similar products, this option comes at a very affordable price without sacrificing efficiency. The quality of the product is comparable to higher priced models, giving it an advantage on the market.
Effectively gets rid of cigarette smell
Attractive design
Quiet
Effective at battling pollen
Low cost
Some users report short life span
A strong LED light
8. Bmbu Deodorizer
It is a natural, safe solution for poor air quality.
The activated bamboo charcoal fights pollutants is a natural way. The carbon in the bamboo fibres binds to harmful particles, filtering out bacteria, dust particles and unpleasant smells.
Chemical free
This product contains no chemicals or toxins. It does not give off any fragrance to cover up the smells. Instead it filters out the offending odours, leaving the car smelling fresh.
Cost and Value
The effects of this product are long lasting, despite the fact that it doesn’t need a power outlet. One bag lasts for over a year, with the price per bag being very affordable.
Can also be used indoors
Non-toxic, natural ingredients
Great at neutralising all sorts of smells
Does not require a power outlet
Works even when the car is not turned on
The effect tends to wear out sooner than the product states
Some customers report little to no improvement in bad smell
9. Acekool
The combination of producing high numbers of negative ions and emitting safe levels of ozone works really well to ensure cleaner air in the cabin. It works especially well for allergens like pollen and dust.
World wide accreditation
This product is certified by the Federal Communications Commision as well as the Restriction of Hazardous Substances, which assures the customer of its high quality and of the company’s consideration for the consumer.
Cost and Value
The cost of this product is comparable to other similar products. The Acekool also comes with a one year warranty, which assures the customer of its quality.
Two USB ports
Comes with a USB cord
Very high number of negative ions
Works really well for cigarette smell
Bulky
Some customers report short life span
10. Thinkga
This purifier can also be used outside the car, as it comes with its own power adapter. It works well in small rooms, desktops and closets.
Battles allergens
The Thinkga is very effective at removing allergens, like dust, pollen, smoke and mold spores. It is ideal for anyone suffering from asthma, pollen allergies or mold sensitivity.
Cost and Value
Compared to products with similar technology this one is a bit on the pricey side. It makes up for the higher price by being portable, which means you can use it indoors as well.
Quiet
Portable
Attractive design
Works great for allergens
Pricey
Somewhat bulky
Which product will work best for you depends on your needs and the environment you live in. If you’re simply looking to get rid of that persistent tobacco smell in your car, ionizers might be the way to go. For the more sensitive customer who is struggling with asthma or allergies, investing in a HEPA system might be a smart decision.
Pollution is becoming a bigger and bigger health risk, so taking steps to minimize the negative effects of bad air quality is a must. Investing in a car air purifier is an easy, reliable way to reduce breathing in pollutants and other harmful particles while driving.
Criteria Used in Evaluation
Of The Best Car Air Purifiers
Technology
Different car air purifiers tackle the issue of harmful particles in different ways. The two most common technologies used are the HEPA filtration system and the ion emitting system. When deciding which product will suit your needs best, it’s good to know how the product will go about doing its job. Ionizers tend to be simpler to use, less expensive, and require no maintenance. They work wonders for unpleasant odors, such as cigarette smell, animal smells, and leftover food odors, but seem to be less effective when it comes to getting rid of allergens.
On the other hand, products that use the filtration systems represent more of an initial investment but work better for dust mites and other particles that cause allergic reactions. They also tend to get results quicker. In addition to ionizers and HEPA systems, some products also use ozone generation to tackle bad smells. Instead of or in addition to emitting negative ions, some units emit low levels of ozone, which bind to odor-producing chemicals to neutralize them.
Price
The price range of car air purifiers is very broad, which makes it difficult to know which products are overpriced and which ones provide you with cleaner air at an affordable price. This is why we have included products from both ends of the spectrum that get the job done. The HEPA systems are generally on the more costly side, as they promise results in a matter of hours and pride themselves in tackling allergens much better than ionizers. In addition to being more pricey, they also need their filters replaced now and then, which adds to the cost. Most ionizers on the market are available for a substantially lower price, but still, get the job done. Regardless of your budget, we are sure this list includes a product that will meet your needs without putting too much strain on your bank account.
Ease of Use
Dealing with technology that isn’t intuitive to use can be very frustrating, so it is very important the product you are purchasing is easy to use. Most car air purifiers are pretty straightforward, requiring only the 12V cigarette lighter in your car to work. Simply plug it in, and it starts doing its job. MOst work immediately after being plugged in, while others have an On/Off button. The fact that the product is working is usually indicated by a small LED light and a quiet humming sound. Some of the more technically advanced and bulkier car air purifiers take a bit more time for installation, as they need to be mounted on the dashboard or behind the driver’s seat. A lot of car air purifiers come with an adapter, which enables you to use them outside the car as well.
Maintenance
While some car air purifiers require nothing more than to simply plug them and forget about them, others require a bit of maintenance now and then. The units utilizing the HEPA filtration system will need to have their filters changed now and then to keep them working optimally. Most of them come equipped with a filter indicator, which means the light will turn on to let you know it’s time to get a new filter. Ionizers don’t require any maintenance, although since they cause the harmful particles to stick to the surface, your car might need cleaning a bit more often than you’re probably used to. The units that require filters to be changed generally have a longer lifespan compared to the ionizers.
Extra Features
It’s always nice to have the feeling you’re getting a bonus when purchasing a product. Some car air purifiers come with extra features such as additional USB ports, so you can charge your device while using them.This is especially handy for the units that work by plugging them into the cigarette lighter in your car, as this way the USB ports are in a very handy position. The HEPA filtration units will often have an indicator for air quality in your car, which is definitely a nifty feature to have.This enables you to adjust your usage to the air quality and it gives you an idea of which factors influence the air quality in your car the most.
Portability
Some car air purifiers are portable, meaning you can take them out of your car and use elsewhere. The portable units work well in closets, small rooms, or even in shoes to get rid of any unpleasant smells. They tend to work best in small rooms, as their compact size means they probably won’t be strong enough to effectively clean the air in bigger rooms. The portable units come with adapters, which enable you to plug them into your regular socket.
Style
Even though performance is more important than style in this type of product, it doesn’t hurt to have an attractive looking device in your car. After all, you are more likely to use a product if you find it visually appealing. For the minimalistic customer, the smaller, inconspicuous units will have the edge over the bulkier, flashy-looking ones. Ionizers tend to be smaller, and once plugged in; they are hardly noticeable. If you’re looking for a fashion accessory for your car, some products, especially the HEPA filtration systems, pride themselves for their futuristic, stylish look. The blue LED light that shows the product is working adds a nice calming vibe to your car.
Warranty
Products coming with a warranty from the manufacturer will always have the edge over the ones that don’t. Being assured that your product will get replaced if it does not meet your standards and that you will receive your money back if you’re not satisfied, lends a sense of confidence of the manufacturer in its product. It lowers the risk involved in purchasing a product and allows the customer to change his mind if it turns out the product doesn’t meet their needs. This is an important issue that we have taken into account while compiling the top 10 list.
Product Production
Whether or not the product does its job well is irrelevant if it breaks down within the first week of using it. This is why the quality of materials and how well the product is made is very important, especially when it comes to products that involve technology. In some cases, paying a bit more guarantees a product of higher quality, while other products are well made despite their affordable price. To prevent you from falling for expensive and ineffective, or cheap and poorly made products, the lifespan of the product plays an important role in our ranking system.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Car Air Purifiers
Q: What is the difference between HEPA filtration systems and ion emitting car air purifiers?
HEPA devices use a filtration system that traps harmful particles, dust mites, mold spores, and chemicals causing bad odors inside the filter located in the device. They use fans to guide the air though the filter, leaving the air free of pollutants. Ionizers don’t use a filter or a fan. They work by emitting a large number of negative ions or anions into the air. These ions then bind to positively charged harmful particles in the air like pollen or dust, which causes them to stick to surfaces instead of floating in the air.
Q: How do ozone generators work?
Instead of filtering air, they generate ozone in low, safe levels. Ozone interacts with chemicals responsible for bad odors in such a way that it makes them odorless. This works quite well for several different odors, including long-lasting, lingering smells, like tobacco, pet smells, and food odors. Since ozone generation works well for bad smells, but doesn’t get rid of harmful particles in an effective way, most units that generate ozone also use an additional technology (like filters or ions) to tackle pollutant particles.
Q: I suffer from occasional asthma issues. Are car air purifiers suitable for me? Which product would work best in my situation?
Yes, car air purifiers are suitable for people suffering from asthma or allergies. Although most car air purifiers promise to remove allergen particles from the car cabin, the HEPA filtration system seems to work best when it comes to reducing allergies and asthma symptoms. They tend to work fast and remove 99% of the offending particles within the first hour.
Q: Do they give off a perfumed smell?
No. Most units simply remove particles that cause bad odors without using any chemicals or perfumes. Their action leaves the car smell neutral, without using heavy perfume to cover up bad smells. Ozone generators sometimes give off a faint smell, but it is not a heavily perfumed smell.
Q: I smoke in my car daily. I have been using air fresheners, but they don’t help with the problem. Will a purifier help with the smell?
Most car air purifiers get rid of harmful particles as well as unpleasant odors. Tobacco smell is one of the most common smells customers are looking to get rid of. Both the ionizers and the HEPA filtration units do a great job of getting rid of the tobacco smell.
Q: Do they all have fans?
No. Products that utilize ionizing technology don’t use fans, as their function is merely to emit a high concentration of negative ions, as opposed to filtering air. This contributes to them being quieter than the products which use fans to work.
Q: Are there any health risks that come with ozone generators?
The ozone levels generated by car air purifiers that utilize this technology are very low and are considered to be safe. If you are worried about exposure to ozone, perhaps opt for a product that does not emit ozone, but tackles bad smells and pollutants in a different way, such as ionization or HEPA filtration.
Q: How do I know the product is working?
Some car air purifiers are very quiet, so it’s sometimes hard to know if they’re working or not. Most come equipped with a LED light, which turns on when the product is plugged in.
Q: How often do I need to replace the filters in HEPA systems?
It depends greatly on how much time you spend driving, how often you use it and which setting you use it on. It also depends on the product itself. Both the Phillips GoPure Compact 200 and the Homdox generally need a new filter every six months, if you are using it approximately five hours a day.
Q: Can the LED light be turned off?
As the light is an indicator that the unit is working, it cannot be turned off. If the light is too bright, some customers recommend you turn the product in such a way that the light is facing downward.
Q: What is inside the Bmbu Bamboo Charcoal Deodorizer?
The bag contains pure bamboo charcoal, with no additives or filters.
Q: Are car air purifiers noisy?
While none of the devices are completely silent, they are generally not noisy. They may produce a low, humming sound, that you hardly notice. In most cases, you can’t hear them at all once the car is running or the radio is on.
Q: Will the car air purifiers drain the car battery if they are left plugged in?
They will not, as they are only working and using up energy when the car is running.
Q: What’s the difference between car air fresheners and car air purifiers?
Air fresheners usually work by giving off perfume into the car cabin. The pleasant smell of the perfume merely covers up any unpleasant odor, while it does nothing for pollutants and other harmful particles. Car air purifiers remove particles like pollutants, allergens and dust mites. They also get rid of bad smells using technology instead of simply covering the smell up.
Sources
- Wikipedia – HEPA
- Wikipedia – Air purifier
- Mist Healthy Air – Have you ever thought about the air you’re breathing?
- Air Quality News – Higher air pollution health risk inside car, study finds
