At a Glance
Pros
- Strong filtration for PM and odors
- Affordable filters
- Auto and Sleep modes
- Better build quality than its price suggests
Cons
- Design is dated
- Plasmawave can be confusing to new users
Key Specifications
Category
Medium-to-large room HEPA air purifier
Recommended room size
Often rated for ~360–400 sq ft
Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR)
Approx. 243 CFM (smoke), 246 (dust), 232 (pollen), varies slightly by source
Filtration stages
Pre-filter, True HEPA, washable carbon filter, PlasmaWave
Filter type
Replaceable HEPA filter plus washable AOC carbon filter
Sensor
Odor and light sensors for Auto and Sleep modes
Noise level
Low in Sleep mode, higher but manageable at top speed
Fan speeds & modes
4 speeds plus Auto and Sleep modes
Price Range: $160–$250
You'll Love This Product If...
Best for shoppers wanting excellent value without sacrificing performance.
You Might Want to Skip This If...
Not ideal if you want app control or a premium aesthetic.
How This Product Affects Your Indoor Air Quality
With dependable performance and quiet operation, it remains one of the best sub-$200 purifiers available.
How We Tested This Product
The 5500-2 consistently performs above its price class in PM2.5 removal tests.
Alternatives to Consider
Alternative
Air Purifier
Levoit Core 300S Smart Air Purifier
by Levoit
4.6
Compact smart air purifier with 3-stage filtration, auto mode, and ultra-quiet sleep mode, ideal for small to medium rooms up to about 219 sq ft.
$120–$150
Alternative
Air Purifier
Levoit Core 600S Smart Air Purifier
by Levoit
4.7
High-capacity Levoit purifier with smart control and auto mode, designed for large rooms and open living areas.
$250–$350
Final Verdict
The Winix 5500-2 is a long-time favorite for its strong filtration, plasmawave option, and excellent value.