Blueair Mini Max: A Compact Air Purifier You’ll Love

Full Review

Blueair is a company that has evolved rapidly, releasing many new air purifiers and series in recent years.

We have tested several of their air purifiers, with a particular focus on the Blue Pure series. The Blueair Mini Max is the latest model in the Blue Pure series that we’ve evaluated.

It’s a small and compact air purifier, yet powerful enough for small spaces, office desks, and similar areas.

We tested its performance, noise levels, and power consumption and evaluated its features, build quality, and overall characteristics to determine whether it’s worth buying.

How We Tested the Blueair Mini Max?

1. For the filter efficiency testing, we used the Temtop LKC-1000S laser particle meter, which measures PM2.5 (µg/m3), PM10 (µg/m3), Particles (per/L), and HCHO (mg/m3) in the air, and also calculates the AQI.

2. We placed the Blueair Mini Max in two separate performance tests, one in a 120 sq. ft. (11 m²) room and the other in a 194 sq. ft. (18 m²) room. Then, we recorded the initial air quality values using the Temtop laser particle meter and let the Blueair Mini Max run at maximum speed.

3. After 60 minutes, we measured the new values using the Temtop laser particle meter and saved the data.

4. Next, we placed the Blueair Mini Max in a glass box, which we then filled with smoke. Then, we measured how much time was needed for the air purifier to remove all the smoke from the box.

5. Using a special noise measurement tool, we tested the air purifier’s noise level at all speeds. We measured the noise level on the dBA scale.

6. Finally, we measured the power usage at all speeds using an energy meter, after which we calculated how much it would cost to use the device at a particular fan speed for one month. For reference, we used an energy price of $0.12 per kWh.

The Blueair Mini Max is a very small air purifier with a CADR of just 60 CFM (102 m³/h), making it suitable for rooms up to 93 sq. ft. (9 m²).

It uses three-stage filtration technology, making it ideal for small spaces like bedrooms, small offices, children’s rooms, or even for keeping on a desk due to its low airflow.

We tested this air purifier in two rooms of different sizes: one with dimensions similar to the recommended size and another slightly larger.

Additionally, I personally used the Blueair Mini Max on my desk for a while to confirm its performance under real conditions, as I have done with every air purifier so far.

What I noticed is that it effectively captures airborne dust around me but isn’t as efficient at neutralizing heavy odors, especially smoke and cooking odors.

Testing in a 120 sq. ft. (11 m²) Room

In the first test, we placed the Blueair Mini Max in a 120 sq. ft. (11 m²) room and ran it at maximum speed for 60 minutes. During that time, this small device reduced PM2.5 particulate matter from 104.9 to 8.9 µg/m³, resulting in an overall air quality improvement of about 92%.

This is a very good result tat highlights the Blueair Mini Max as a small but high-quality air purifier.

When we compare this result with the competition, the Blueair Mini Max ranks very well and is among the top performers. Above it, with slightly better results, are the Shark HP102, which improved air quality in the same room by 94%, and the Levoit Core 200S, which improved air quality by around 93%.

Overall, the Blueair Mini Max is a small but high-quality and very efficient air purifier.

Testing in a 194 sq. ft. (18 m²) Room

In a test conducted in a 194 sq. ft. (18 m²) room, which is slightly larger than the recommended size, the Blueair Mini Max also delivered very good results.

In just 60 minutes of operation at maximum speed, this air purifier improved air quality by about 89%. This is an impressive outcome, especially considering that the room is nearly twice the recommended size.

The Blueair Mini Max is a small air purifier with a lower CADR and limited airflow, so I didn’t expect it to have too many fan speeds.

It has three fan speeds and lacks a sleep mode, but it is extremely quiet at the lowest speed—much quieter than some air purifiers, even in sleep mode.

It produces only 40.4 dBA at the lowest speed, which, combined with night mode features, makes it ideal for bedroom use.

Compared to similar air purifiers, the Blueair Mini Max is definitely the quietest at the lowest speed.

However, I was surprised by its somewhat louder noise level at maximum speed. It produces a sound of 60.3 dBA, which is higher than I expected for such a small air purifier. The Honeywell HPA100 is about 1.8 dBA quieter at maximum speed than the Blueair Mini Max, but it also has a slightly larger CADR and a more powerful motor.

Frankly, I would prefer if it produced less noise at maximum speed, but that doesn’t change the fact that the Blueair Mini Max remains the quietest air purifier at the lowest speed among all the models in its class that we’ve tested.

Although it was hard to believe at first, even with a motor of only 10W, the Blueair Mini Max isn’t the lowest power consumer compared to other air purifiers we tested.

If you were to use it at maximum speed, 24 hours a day, for a month, your electricity bill would increase by about $0.68.

What surprised me, as you can see in the chart below, is that several competing air purifiers consume even less. For example, the Levoit Core Mini would cost you around $0.63 under identical conditions, the IKEA UPPÅTVIND about $0.59, and the Levoit LV-H128 even less, an incredible $0.46.

However, this doesn’t diminish the fact that the Blueair Mini Max is still one of the most energy-efficient air purifiers.

Additionally, it uses a very affordable replacement filter, which needs to be changed on average every six months, depending on usage and environmental conditions.

In conclusion, electricity consumption and the cost of replacement filters aren’t things you need to worry about too much with the Blueair Mini Max.

It’s an exceptionally well-optimized air purifier, ranking among the top devices when it comes to annual maintenance costs.

Filtration Technology

The Blueair Mini Max uses three-stage filtration technology with the addition of HEPASilent technology, which essentially includes an ionizer.

What I don’t like about the Blueair Mini Max is that the use of HEPASilent technology is only mentioned in a few places, especially since many people are wary of ionizers and prefer to avoid air purifiers that include them.

This is particularly concerning because the ionizer can’t be turned off; it automatically activates when the device is turned on.

However, it’s important to note that the Blueair Mini Max is CARB-certified, meaning it produces ozone below the allowed limits, making it safe to use.

Overall, the Blueair Mini Max uses effective filters that have demonstrated very good efficiency in all tests.

Pre-filter

The fabric pre-filter is the first stage of filtration. It’s washable and doesn’t need to be replaced; it’s only cleaned periodically. You can wash it in a washing machine or vacuum it with a vacuum cleaner.

This filter is designed to capture large particles such as pet hair, large dust particles, and similar debris. Its primary purpose is to protect the main filter and extend its lifespan.

After the first week of use, you’ll likely notice traces of dust on this filter, especially if you use it in a room with pets.

Particle Filter

The second and most important stage of filtration is the particle filter. This filter captures airborne particles such as dust, pollen, mold, allergens, and similar contaminants.

It removes fine particles as small as 0.1 microns.

Although it’s not a True HEPA filter, the particle filter on the Blueair Mini Max has demonstrated fantastic results and high efficiency in removing airborne particles.

Carbon Filter

The third filtration stage is the carbon filter, whose primary function is to trap light cooking odors, pet odors, and other unpleasant smells.

The Blueair Mini Max doesn’t use a pellet-based carbon filter, which results in a somewhat weaker performance in neutralizing bad odors.

Honestly, I wouldn’t recommend this model if neutralizing odors is your main priority in an air purifier.

How To Replace the Blueair Mini Max Filter?

The Blueair Mini Max uses a small filter that typically needs to be changed every six months. However, this interval can vary depending on where and how often you use your air purifier.

It has a built-in filter reset indicator located above the power button, which will light up in red when it’s time to replace the filter.

The replacement process is straightforward and takes no more than 5 minutes.

Setup and Installation

The Blueair Mini Max doesn’t require any preparation before the first use. The device comes ready to operate—no filter setup or other preparation is needed.

All you have to do is place it in the desired location, ensuring it’s away from walls and other objects, plug it in, and turn it on.

The most important thing to remember is not to block the air inlets or outlets.

Design

In previous reviews of models from the Blue Pure series, I’ve often mentioned how much I like the design of this series from Blueair. I particularly like the minimalism, soft colors, and simple yet high-quality build.

The same is true for the Blueair Mini Max air purifier.

This small air purifier features the characteristic design of the Blue Pure series, consisting of two parts: the upper part, which houses the motor and is made of plastic, and the lower part, which is essentially a plastic frame that holds the filter, with a pre-filter placed over it.

As with other models, you can choose to purchase pre-filters in various colors for this one as well.

In terms of build quality, I find it to be quite decent—more than good for this type of device.

Overall, the Blueair Mini Max is an air purifier that will fit perfectly into almost any space.

Controls

Unlike some of its predecessors (such as the Blueair 411 Auto), the Blueair Mini Max actually has two buttons for controlling the device.

One button is for turning the device on and off, and the other is for adjusting the fan speed. Although it’s a minor addition, I have to admit it makes usage easier, and I appreciate this small change in the Blueair Mini model.

Pressing the power button turns the device on or off, but this button also serves to activate or deactivate the child lock feature. To activate the child lock, hold your finger on the power button for 5 seconds.

The fan speed button is used to switch between motor modes, but it also functions as a filter reset indicator. By holding your finger on this button for 15 seconds, you can reset the filter reset indicator.

I’ll provide more details about this in the section where I explain the filter replacement process, which you can find below.

Airflow

This cylindrical air purifier features air intake openings spread across the bottom two-thirds of the device.

These openings are evenly spread around the entire unit, allowing air to be drawn in, filtered, and then released through the top of the device.

Size and Dimensions

The Blueair Mini is a very small, portable, and compact air purifier with dimensions of 11.4 x 6.8 x 5.9 inches (29 x 17.2 x 15 cm). It weighs just 2.8 lb (1.3 kg), making it even more compact and easy to move from room to room.

Given its lightweight and small size, the lack of a carrying handle isn’t noticeable or necessary.

What’s in the box?

When you purchase a Blueair Mini Max air purifier, you’ll receive the device with included filters, a user manual, and a warranty card.

As I mentioned in the setup and installation section, no preparation is needed since the filters are already installed in the device, making it ready to use right out of the box.

Features Overview

This small and minimalist air purifier doesn’t come with any advanced features. It lacks an air quality sensor, auto mode, and smart app capabilities, which are typically expected in this price range.

However, it does have a few features worth mentioning, which I will explain below.

Night Mode

The first feature I’d like to highlight is night mode. The Blueair Mini Max has a built-in light sensor that continuously monitors the room’s lighting. When it detects darkness, it automatically switches the device to night mode.

This means dimming all indicators on the device and setting it to the lowest fan speed. It functions as an automated sleep mode, which is ideal if you plan to use this small device in bedrooms.

Child Lock

I’ve tried a few Blueair air purifiers in the Blue Pure series, and this is the first one that comes with a child lock feature.

I believe this is because it offers two buttons for control instead of just one, as seen on some other models in this series.

By pressing and holding the power button for 5 seconds, you can activate child lock mode, which prevents the air purifier from responding to any button presses.

This is a great feature if you want to ensure that your pre-set settings remain unchanged.

Warranty

Initially, the Blueair Mini Max comes with a 1-year warranty. However, Blueair offers an extended warranty for all air purifiers within the “Max” series.

This means that if you register your device through the form on Blueair’s website, you can extend the warranty to 3 years.

Room Coverage and CADR

The Blueair Mini Max is one of the smallest air purifiers we’ve tested. It has a very small 10W motor with a CADR of just 60 CFM (102 m³/h).

This makes it most suitable for rooms up to 93 sq. ft. (9 m²), where it can clean the air 4.8 times per hour.

This limited coverage significantly restricts the capabilities of this small device. In other words, I wouldn’t recommend using it in rooms much larger than the recommended dimensions. The Blueair Mini Max is ideal for an office desk, a small bedroom, or another small space.

I’d also like to point out that it will clean the air twice per hour in a 223 sq. ft. (21 m²) room. If you need a slightly larger air purifier and like Blueair’s Blue Pure series, you might want to check out the Blueair 411 or the 411 Auto models, which delivered outstanding results in our tests.

FAQ on Blueair Mini Max