The technology inside these two units may differ, but looking at them side-by-side, you’ll see they are practically exactly the same. When it comes to specifications, the 45i is the winner as it’s lighter, quieter and, due to its higher CADR, tackles pollutants in larger rooms than the Flex. In 2024, however, the Classic model is far surpassed by the superior Alen BreatheSmart 75i model; the best-of-the-best air purifier in general, not only among Alen Air purifiers. This is quite a lot; comparatively, as we have discussed in the Alen BreatheSmart 75i review, that air purifier generates only 25 dB at Speed 1.
Dust, pollen, smoke removal is how well a model cleared air of fine clay dust and cigarette smoke when operating at a low speed that was typically one setting above the lowest speed. Many models have multiple speeds and the lowest is not as effective at cleaning the air. A model that scores well for dust removal should perform comparably for pollen. The Alen® 75i Air Purifier isn’t just a game changer—it’s a life changer. Consumer Reports recommends the Alen® BreatheSmart 75i Pure with an overall EXCELLENT score.
The unit comes with a vent guard to keep curious children’s fingers safe. Using our indoor sensor from Purpleair, which provides continual updates on PM1.0ug/m3, PM2.5ug/m3 and PM10.0 ug/m3, we monitor and collect data lasko pedestal fans from every step of the process. Each filter available uses H13 HEPA technology that is capable of trapping 99.9% of airborne particles as small as 0.1 microns (dust, dander, allergens, mold, bacteria and viruses).
Alen BreatheSmart Classic was created as a large bedroom air purifier. It should be quiet as a mouse; high noise levels and sleeping don’t go well together. CADR scale goes from 0 to 450, with an approximated 200 average for a standard air purifier. In short, they are brilliant even at removing the smallest air particulates such as small dust particles, smoke particles, pollen, mold, mold spores, certain bacteria, and so on. Only Alen combines advanced filtration technology with increased motor power for maximum airflow and minimal noise.
When we look at the data side by side from the Flex and 45i, it becomes clear how close they are in cleaning performance. With only a minute between them, the Flex works harder than the 45i to match its results. Lasko Box Fan You probably won’t be able to tell the difference in a smaller room. When you first unbox your Alen air purifier, be sure to remove the plastic packaging from the filter before you start using the unit.
That’s why we wanted to get our hands on a few of their products to test and review. This Austin-based company has been engineering and innovating since 1999, so they have a wealth of knowledge behind them. Their mission is to ” improve the quality of people’s lives” with their products; their vision is to “inspire a healthier life and provide peace of mind” for their customers. Sadly, the noise levels are also a bit of a con for the Classic model, paradoxically so I may add.
The app provides at-a-glance readings for each of these as well as an easy way to display past levels on a new 60-minute graph that updates every minute. Both of our units will indicate when it’s time to replace your filter when three lights illuminate over the Filter button. Remember, if you don’t replace your filter when instructed to do so, your air purifier won’t run at maximum efficiency.
This is called CADR (Clean Air Delivery Rate) and is measured in CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) to show us how effective an air purifier is at its job. When it comes to design and filters, both units are almost identical. They have the H13 HEPA main filter that may cost about $100 but needs to be changed only once per year. With other air purifiers, you’re looking at 3-5 filter replacements per year, and a total cost of about $300. On top of that, Alen is the first air purifier brand to introduce a lifetime warranty. By buying the Classic, you’re playing it safe; the warranty covers all the problems you may have.
The more activated carbon a filter contains, the more contaminants it can remove. The 45i is lighter, so it is easier to move, but they both feature a flat, removable front panel held on with magnets, curved edges and measure up the same size. To the untrained eye, you would never be able to tell the difference. We try to keep up with sales for every air purifier we review; Alen BreatheSmart Classic sales included. While the new flagship 45i and 75i models achieved the super quiet operation (below 50 dB), the Classic doesn’t share the same noise profile.
It was a close call between the 45i and the Flex regarding design, filters and the numbers, with only one minute to separate them in our cleaning performance tests. The difference comes with the features included and the annual running costs. When you compare these two to some of the other air purifiers we’ve reviewed of similar size, you’ll see they are a little louder.