Winix 5300-2 Review | Best Budget air purifier

Winix 5300-2 is a well-balanced air purifier. Despite the cheap price tag, this machine does not shy away from practicality like timer, AQ light, or Auto/ Sleep mode. With a specification that is double what you’ll pay for other brands, how effective is the air cleaner against dust? Does it have durability for long-term usage? Find out in our complete Winix 5300-2 Review

In terms of performance, the Winix 5300-2 is a definite upgrade from the PlasmaWave 5300. It does a great job at circulating and purifying the air in a room and is especially effective at removing dust particles. The machine is also very quiet, making it ideal for use in bedrooms.

Winix 5300-2 Review

Product Name

Winix 5300-2

Particle filter type

HEPA

Weight

15 lb

Product Dimensions

24 in. tall x 15 in. wide x 8 in. deep

Filters

Washable Pre-filter, Hepa Filter, and Carbon Filter

Room Size

360 sq. ft.

Air Movement

Front, bottom, sides of front grille > mesh pre-filter > carbon filter > HEPA filter > up and out of the top of the unit

Number of fan speeds

4 – low, medium, high, and turbo

Warranty

1 Years 

Price

Design & Usability

The Winix 5300-2 purifier build quality is good, with no loose parts or off-gassing, and the air ventilation system is located at the bottom of the unit, where it is out of the way. The air inlet is located behind the front cover, and the air outlet is pushed to the top, making it easy to access. The size and weight of the air purifier are similar to the previous model and also come with a standard handle slot, making it easy to grip and move around.

Winix 5300-2 Air purifier Design
Control Panel of Winix-5300-2

The control panel space includes five round buttons (On/ Off, Mode, PlasmaWave, Fan Speed, and Timer) and the air quality indicator bar, light/ odor sensor, and small filter reset button are all located in the center. The On/ Off button is self-explanatory, and the Mode button will switch between Auto mode and Sleep mode.

PlasmaWave technology emits air natural ions that work to break down pollutants at a molecular level while the fan speed can be set to low, medium, or high depending on your needs. The Timer button allows you to set how long you want the purifier to run, and the air quality indicator bar will let you know when it is time to replace the filter.

winix 5500-2

The dedicated PlasmaWave button activates and deactivates the Hydroxyls purifying function and the fan speed button cycles between the four speeds. The timer button will cycle between 1, 4, 8 hours, and off. There is also a small reset button that you would use to reset the indicator after a filter change. The front air quality indicator light will remain blue color when the surrounding air quality is good.

The air quality monitor on the Winix 5300-2 air purifier is a great addition that allows you to see at a glance how clean or polluted the air in your home is. The bar will change from green to yellow to red as the air quality deteriorates, and the LED light will dim or brighten based on the ambient light in the room. The controls are nicely labeled and angled for better visibility. We do miss the traditional clicky switch type more than the touch button here.

wininx 5300-2

★★★★★

Features

  • Color: l Gray
  • Product Dimensions: 7.8″D x 14.9″W x 23.6″H
  • Item Weight:17.81 Pounds
  • Control Method:Remote
  • Wattage: 110

The Winix 5300-2 air purifier is a great way to improve the air quality in your home. However, you should take a few safety precautions when using it.

First, make sure your hands are dry before operating the air purifier.

Second, never attempt to block or insert your fingers into the air inlet or outlet.

Third, avoid using the air purifier outdoors or in direct sunlight. Fourth, never place the air purifier next to flammable items such as insecticides, lighter fluid, or fragrances. Finally, make sure you plug the air purifier into a local power source without relying on a transformer. If you follow these simple safety tips, you will be able to enjoy the benefits of the Winix 5300-2 air purifier without any risks.

The 4-stage filtration system is designed to remove a wide range of airborne contaminants, and the PlasmaWave Technology helps to break down these contaminants at a molecular level. The AQ indicators help you keep track of the air quality in your home, and the dual smart sensors (odor + light) help to identify potential air quality problems before they become serious. The timer function allows you to set the purifier to turn off at the desired time, and the filter change indicator reminds you when it is time to replace the filter.

Filter Analysis True HEPA filter

the Winix 5300-2 uses a true HEPA filter to remove particles from the air. The HEPA filter is able to remove 99.97% of particles that are 0.3 microns in size or larger. This includes everything from pollen and pet allergens to mold and dust. while a MERV 7 filter, which is commonly used in residential HVAC systems, can only remove 90% of particles.

The air purifiers we’ve mentioned so far – including the Winix 5500-2, Coway Mighty, Germ Guardian AC4825, and Coway AirMega 400 – all come equipped with true HEPA filters. This type of filtration is essential for those who suffer from allergies or asthma, as it can significantly reduce the number of irritants floating around in the air.

Gas Filter

The Winix 5300-2 air purifier features a gas filter that helps to remove unwanted gases from the air. The carbon in the filter bonds to gases like odors and VOCs, trapping them so that they can’t be breathed in. As a result, the air that passes through the filter is cleaner and healthier to breathe.

The Winix 5300-2 air purifier is equipped with a top-of-the-line carbon filter made of a fibrous material coated with carbon. This type of carbon filter is the most common on the market and is also used in the Coway Mighty and GermGuardian AC4825 air purifiers.

There are two main types of carbon air filters: those with coated carbon and those with carbon pellets. Both types of filters are effective at adsorbing common airborne contaminants like dust, pollen, and pet dander.

However, the carbon pellets found in the second type of filter offer better gas adsorption than the coated carbon found in the first type of filter. For this reason, the second type of filter is often considered to be superior. The Winix 5500-2 air purifier uses a carbon pellet-based filter, as does the Coway AirMega 400. If you’re concerned about gas filtration, then you may want to consider spending a little extra to get an air purifier with a carbon pellet-based filter.

Pre-filter

Pre-filter of Winix-5300-2

The air purifier is equipped with a mesh pre-filter that captures larger particles. This helps to extend the life of the HEPA filter by preventing large particles from saturating it. The pre-filter can be washed for free, while the HEPA filter will eventually need to be replaced at cost. By using a pre-filter, you can keep your air purifier running smoothly and efficiently. Replacing the HEPA filter is still cheaper than buying a new air purifier, so the pre-filter is a great way to save money in the long run because replacement filters are a bit expensive. Thanks, Winix 5300-2!

One important consideration is the type of pre-filter that the air purifier uses. The Winix 5500-2, Coway Mighty, and AirMega 400 all use a mesh pre-filter that can be washed and reused. This is a more efficient and cost-effective option than the carbon pre-filter used by the GermGuardian AC4825 and most other budget air purifiers.

Carbon-filter of Winix-5300-2

The carbon filter can quickly become saturated with large particles, requiring frequent replacement. In contrast, the washable mesh pre-filter of the Winix 5300-2 can be vacuumed or washed to remove debris, extending the life of the air purifier.

Winix 5300-2 is a well-balanced air purifier. Despite the cheap price tag, this machine also does not shy away from practicality like timer, AQ light, and Auto/ Sleep mode. With a specification that is double what you’ll pay for other brands, how effective is the air cleaner against dust? Does it have the durability for long-term usage?

In terms of performance, the Winix 5300-2 is a definite upgrade from the PlasmaWave 5300. It does a great job at circulating and purifying the air in a room and is especially effective at removing dust particles. The machine is also very quiet, making it ideal for use in bedrooms.

Air Quality, Air Processing Performance & Air Movement

Air purifiers are becoming increasingly popular as people strive to create a healthier indoor environment. The Winix 5300-2 is one of the most popular air purifiers on the market, and for good reason. Its powerful air filtration system is able to quickly remove harmful particles from the air, creating a clean and healthy environment.

In our tests, the 5300-2 lowered room particle concentration from 10,000 particles per cubic ft. to 1,000 particles per cubic ft. in just 9 minutes. We consider the latter concentration – 1,000 particles per cubic ft. – to be the maximum threshold for particle concentration in a clean air environment in a residential setting. Thus, the 5300-2 is able to achieve a “clean air” environment in a 150 sq. ft. room in 9 minutes. This is, of course, on its highest fan speed – turbo. If you’re looking for an air purifier that can quickly create a clean and healthy environment, the Winix 5300-2 is perfect.

the Winix Not only has a high output (CFM), but it also accomplishes the same feat in a shorter amount of time – 9 minutes. The Coway Mighty took 10 minutes. Smaller units with less output (less CFM) took longer. For example, the GermGuardian AC4825 took 23 minutes. Larger units with greater output were faster. For example, the Coway AirMega 400 took only 4 minutes. So if you’re looking for an air purifier that will get the job done quickly and efficiently, the Winix 5500-2 is a great option.

The Winix 5300-2 is one of the most effective air purifiers on the market, and it was able to lower particle concentration in the room by an additional 7 minutes. This means that it is able to achieve the lowest particle concentration possible, making it an ideal choice for people who suffer from allergies or asthma. The Coway Mighty and GermGuardian AC4825 are also effective air purifiers, but they take longer to reach the same level of particle reduction. The Coway AirMega 400 is a surprisingly effective air purifier, and it only took 9 additional minutes to reach the lowest particle concentration.

Air Movement

wininx 5300-2
air mechanism of Winix-5300-2

When shopping for an air purifier, one of the most important specs to look at is the unit’s air movement, or CFM (cubic feet per minute). This tells you how much air the purifier can move through in a minute. The higher the CFM, the better. 

For example, the Winix 5300-2 air purifier has a CFM of 250. That means it can process 250 cubic feet of air every minute. The Coway Mighty air purifier has the same CFM output. 

In contrast, less expensive air purifiers like the GermGuardian AC4825 typically have lower CFMs. The AC4825 has an output of 130 to 140 CFM. 

Larger, more expensive units like the Coway AirMega 400 usually have greater CFMs. The AirMega 400 has an output of 430 CFM. So when shopping for an air purifier, be sure to check the CFM rating to ensure you’re getting a unit that will suit your needs.

The Winix 5300-2 air purifier is a great choice for people looking for an air purifier that can be used in spaces up to 300 square feet. We do not recommend a high CFM unit like the AirMega 400 as it is a very poor value. You can buy almost three 5300-2s for a total output of 750 CFM for the same price as a single AirMega 400.

At 150sq.ft space This unit can operate at lower speeds, which makes it much quieter. However, it does produce a lot of noise at the highest speed. For larger spaces, we recommend multiple units.

Noise

The Winix 5300-2 air purifier is a great choice for those looking for an air purifier that is relatively quiet. It has three different speed settings – low, medium, and high – and produces a 27.8 to 70 dB noise level. The low and medium settings are generally silent, while it produces 67.5 dB of noise output on turbo which is a bit more noticeable but still bearable. use the Sleep mode with one click for uninterrupted sleep at night.

Durability & Filter Replacement Indicator

The Winix 5300-2 is one of the best air purifiers on the market, and it’s made in Korea. With this in mind, it’s not surprising that the 5300-2 is better built with better quality parts than most other air purifiers on the market.

Everything from the control panel to the plastic parts used to construct the chassis is just a cut above in quality compared to comparable parts on most other air purifiers, especially units selling at the same price. If you’re looking for an air purifier that will suit your needs and last for years to come, the Winix 5300-2 is a great option.

The short 1-year warranty of the Winix units is a huge drawback. Most other air purifiers on today’s market come with longer warranties, such as 3 or 5 years! The Coway and GermGuardian model comes to both offer similar protection that will last you up to 3 extra long periods before needing another replacement;

Energy Efficiency

For those who are looking for an air purifier that doesn’t consume a lot of power, the Winix 5300-2 is a great option. This air purifier is ENERGY STAR rated, meaning that it uses significantly less electricity than other household appliances.

 the Winix 5300-2 is a great option. It draws 64.4 watts of power on its highest fan setting – slightly less than some comparable models – making it an efficient choice for running all day long. And with an aCFM/watt ratio of 3.87, it’s clear that this purifier is designed with energy efficiency in mind.

At low speed, the Winix 5300-2 only uses 5 watts of power, and at turbo speed, it uses 70+ watts. With a standard 12 operation hours, the average electric cost will be $0.05 dollars per day, $1.6 dollars a month, or 19 dollars a year. The auto mode is also key in energy management and provides reasonable airflow capacity. Overall, the Winix 5300-2 is a great air purifier for those who are looking to save on their energy bill.

Price

Winix 5300-2 is the best bang for your buck when it comes to air purifiers. With its mid-range price, this product offers an incredible level of performance and has Filter A package that includes 4 carbon sheets with 1 HEPA filter which means you will never need another one again! The only downside?

They only last 3 months so make sure not to forget about replacing them regularly or else risk having bad breath all year round.

the 5300-2 is a great option. It’s one of the most inexpensive 250 CFM units on the market, making it a great choice for budget-conscious consumers. Additionally, its filters are very reasonably priced, making it a more cost-effective option in the long run.

At approx. $130, the Winix 5300-2 air purifier is the least expensive 250 CFM unit we’ve tested so far. And it’s not just us – you cannot buy an air purifier with the same or greater output for less money.

The Winix 5500-2 is slightly more expensive at approx. $150, and the Coway Mighty is even more expensive at approx. $210. But what does all this mean for you? Simply put, the Winix 5300-2 is an excellent value for its price point. One of the reasons for choosing 5500-2 is its remote control and better gas filter.

Additionally, the 5500-2 comes with a longer warranty than the Winix 5300-2, making it a more reliable option. Overall, we believe that the Winix 5500-2 is a great air purifier and well worth the slightly higher price tag.

Pros & Cons

Pros
  • Affordable price and specifications.
  • best CADR and airflow output with 4-stage PlasmaWave filtration.
  • True-HEPA filter which traps microscopic allergens.
  • Auto mode and Sleep mode – very useful in the bedroom.
  • Timer with 3 pre-set settings (1, 4, 8 hours).
  • Extended 2 years warranty.
Cons
  • The carbon filter is less effective than an AOC carbon filter.
  • No remote control (standard in Winix 5500-2).
  • need to change the filter change frequently.

Final verdict

 the Winix 5300-2 is still a great option, especially if you’re on a budget. The 5300-2 does an excellent job of cleaning the air and is affordable. No other air purifier is certified to clean up to 360 square feet at such a low cost. We love the auto-off timer and the sensors on board.

PlasmaWave technology might produce some Ozone. However, this is an optional feature and users can choose to not use it. Something that can be improved is the warranty period of just 1 year. Overall, it is easy to see why this is one of the highest-selling air purifiers on the market today.

Is the Winix 5300-2 Energy-Efficient?

Yes, The Winix 5300-2 Air purifier is energy efficient. It is Energy efficient because it is Energy Star rated, which means that it uses less power and electricity even at high fan speed.

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Author
Sreeram

The author is an Air purifier expert with overall knowledge of air and ionizers.