Specifications
| Manufacturer | Blueair |
| Model | 211+ |
| Dimensions (inches / cm) | 20.5 x 13 x 13 inches (52.2 x 33 x 33 cm) |
| Weight (pounds / kg) | 15 lb (7 kg) |
| Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) | 350 CFM (595 m³/h) |
| Filtration Technology | Washable Pre-filter, Particle Filter, Carbon Filter, and HEPASilent |
| Filter Replacement Indicator | Yes |
| Filter Life | 6 months |
| Number of Fan Speeds | 3 – Speed 1 (Low), Speed 2 (Medium), and Speed 3 (High) |
| Air Quality Sensor Air Quality Sensor Summary: Out of 67 air purifiers tested, only 31 have the air quality sensor. | No |
| Air Quality Indicator | No |
| Auto Mode Auto Mode Summary: Out of 67 air purifiers tested, only 32 have auto mode functionality. | No |
| Smart App Smart App Summary: Out of 67 air purifiers tested, only 20 have smart app functionality. | No |
| Voice Control Voice Control Summary: Out of 67 air purifiers tested, only 20 have voice control functionality. | No |
| Other Features | Smart Plug |
| Coverage (4.8 ACH)
Room Coverage Explanation: ACH is a measurement used in indoor air quality management to indicate how many times the air within a defined space is changed/moved through the filter media.
For more details, visit our ACH calculator tool. | 540 sq. ft. (50 m²) |
| Performance Ratings Performance Ratings Score Summary: 8.6 - Average Score (67 products) 9.8 - Best Score (2 products) 2.5 - Worst Score (1 products) We use the Temtop LKC-1000S laser particle meter to test the particle removal efficiency of every air purifier. It measures PM2.5 (µg/m3), PM10 (µg/m3), Particles (per/L), and HCHO (mg/m3) in the air, and also calculates the AQI. You can read more about our testing methodology here. | |
| Power Consumption
Power Usage Summary: Our extensive testing of 67 air purifiers revealed the following power consumption insights:
Check out our power consumption calculator tool. | 61W |
| Operating Costs Ratings Operating Costs Ratings Score Summary: 9.1 - Average Score (67 products) 10 - Best Score (2 products) 8 - Worst Score (1 products) We measure the power usage at all speeds using an energy meter, after which we calculate how much it would cost to use the device at a particular fan speed for one month. For reference, we use an energy price of $0.12 per kWh. You can read more about our testing methodology here. | |
| Noise Level (low – high) | 43.9 – 59.7 dBA |
| Noise Ratings Noise Ratings Score Summary: 9.3 - Average Score (67 products) 10 - Best Score (1 products) 8.2 - Worst Score (1 products) We use a special noise measurement tool to test the noise level of the air purifier at all speeds. We measured the noise level on the dBA scale. You can read more about our testing methodology here. | |
| Best Suited For | Living Rooms Offices Allergies Large Spaces Dust |
| Warranty | 2-year |
Full Review
This minimalist air purifier is a great choice for beginners and first-time buyers. It requires no special knowledge, has no smart options, and is relatively easy to use.
The Blueair 211+ is one of the most powerful air purifiers tested and easily improves air quality in large rooms. Blueair is a reputable air purifier brand originating from Europe.
It comes with a 2-year warranty, which is okay but much lower than what’s offered for some other Blueair models.
Overall, I really like the Blueair 211+ and strongly believe that it has many things to offer. Please keep reading to find out its pros and cons and whether it is worth buying.
How We Tested the Blueair 211+?
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 211+ in two separate performance tests, one in a 560 sq. ft. (52 m²) room and the other in a 320 sq. ft. (30 m²) room. Then, we recorded the initial air quality values using the Temtop laser particle meter and let the Blueair 211+ 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 211+ 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.
Performance – Particle Removal Tests
Performance – Particle Removal Tests:
8.6 - Average Score (67 products)
9.8 - Best Score (2 products)
2.5 - Worst Score (1 products)
We use the Temtop LKC-1000S laser particle meter to test the particle removal efficiency of every air purifier. It measures PM2.5 (µg/m3), PM10 (µg/m3), Particles (per/L), and HCHO (mg/m3) in the air, and also calculates the AQI.
You can read more about our testing methodology here.
The Blueair 211+ is designed for rooms up to 540 sq. ft. (50 m²). In such a room, it will clean the air 4.8 times per hour.
This large air purifier is ideal for living rooms, basements, open kitchens, and similar spaces.
I believe it would also work in slightly larger rooms than the recommended dimensions, especially because of its excellent performance test results.
However, I wouldn’t recommend the Blueair 211+ if your primary goal is to neutralize bad odors such as cigarette smoke, VOCs, or cooking smells, mainly because of its low-carbon filter (much better options would be the Winix 5500-2 or the Alen FLEX).
Testing in a 320 sq. ft. (30 m²) Room
In the first test, in a 320 sq. ft. (30 m²) room, which is much smaller than the recommended dimensions, the Blueair 211+ achieved outstanding results by improving the air quality by about 96% in just 60 minutes.
| # | Starting Baseline | After 60min |
|---|---|---|
| PM 2.5 | 104.4 µg/m3 | 4.7 µg/m3 |
| PM 10 | 146.1 µg/m3 | 6.5 µg/m3 |
| Particles | 151396 per/L | 6829 per/L |
| AQI | 136 | 6 |
It lowered the AQI from 136 to 6, which is in the range of some top-rated air purifiers, such as the Coway AP-1512HH.
Testing in a 560 sq. ft. (52 m²) Room
In the second test, performed in a more suitable room size of 560 sq. ft. (52 m²), the Blueair 211+ also had great results, though not as impressive as in the 320 sq. ft. (30 m²) test.
In just 60 minutes, while operating at max speed, the Blueair 211+ improved the air quality by 92%.
Particle Removal Test - Comparison
Comparison between Blueair 211+ and its competitors in particle removal tests in a 560 sq. ft. (52 m²) room.
In this test, its biggest competitor, the Levoit Core 600S, outperformed it, achieving an air improvement of 96% under the same conditions.
| # | Starting Baseline | After 60min |
|---|---|---|
| PM 2.5 | 108.6 µg/m3 | 9.7 µg/m3 |
| PM 10 | 152 µg/m3 | 13.6 µg/m3 |
| Particles | 157499 per/L | 14147 per/L |
| AQI | 142 | 12 |
Overall, I’m really satisfied with the performance of the Blueair 211+. Even though it’s not my top choice for some situations (e.g., when you need to remove kitchen smell or cigarette smoke), I still believe it’s a great device worth considering.
Performance – Smoke Removal Test
The Blueair 211+ removed smoke from the glass box in just 11 seconds, making it one of the fastest models in this test.
It performed better than the Levoit LV-H134 (12 seconds) and significantly better than models like the DREO Macro Max S (17 seconds) and Levoit Core 300S (20 seconds). Only the Levoit Core 600S, its main competitor, did it faster, taking only 9 seconds to remove all the smoke.
Smoke Box Test - Comparison
In this chart, you can see how quickly the Blueair 211+ removes smoke from a glass box compared to its competitors.
This test shows why the Blueair 211+ is one of the best options for large rooms and also confirms its powerful airflow.
Noise Levels Test
Noise – Sound Level Tests:
9.3 - Average Score (67 products)
10 - Best Score (1 products)
8.2 - Worst Score (1 products)
We use a special noise measurement tool to test the noise level of the air purifier at all speeds. We measure the noise level on the dBA scale.
You can read more about our testing methodology here.
The Blueair 211+ uses only three fan speeds and lacks sleep and auto modes. Given its large size and powerful airflow, I expected it to be unbearably loud.
However, considering its CADR, it’s one of the quietest air purifiers at max speed. It produces just 59.7 dBA at max speed, which is 8.8 dBA quieter than its bigger competitor, the Levoit Core 600S, and much quieter than all the competitive air purifiers we tested (see the chart below).
Noise Levels Test - Comparison
This chart compares the noise levels at the minimum and maximum speeds of the Blueair 211+ air purifier with those of its competitors.
One minor drawback is a bit of strange noise at max speed, which can sometimes be slightly annoying.
At the lowest speed, the Blueair 211+ produces a sound of 43.9 dBA, which is relatively quiet (the same as the noise level of the Core 600S at the lowest speed) but not as quiet as some competitors. Some less powerful models, such as the Levoit Vital 200S (41 dBA at low) or the Levoit Core 400S (42.1 dBA at low), are much quieter than the Blueair. So, I would give these two models a slight advantage over the Blueair 211+ for use in bedrooms and similar rooms.
| Fan Speed | Value (dBA) |
|---|---|
| Speed 1 (Low) | 43.9 dBA |
| Speed 2 (Mode) | 51.2 dBA |
| Speed 3 (High) | 59.7 dBA |
Overall, the Blueair 211+ has a well-optimized motor that works relatively quietly, making it a great option if you are looking for a powerful and quiet air purifier.
Considering this device’s power, airflow, and size, we expect the motor’s power to be huge. However, the 61W motor is too much, and I believe Blueair could have done a better job optimizing it.
If you left the Blueair 211+ to run at the maximum speed, 24 hours daily, for one month, your electrical bill would increase by about $4.29, which isn’t too much, especially compared to competitors.
Monthly Power Cost – Comparison
Comparison of the monthly power cost at maximum speed between the Blueair 211+ and some of its competitors.
For example, the Coway AP-1512HH, which covers almost two times smaller rooms, would cost you about $6.05, which is almost $2 more expensive per month than the power cost of the Blueair 211+.
| Fan Speed | Power Usage (W) | Monthly Cost ($) |
|---|---|---|
| Stand-by | 0.2W | $0.01 |
| Speed 1 (Low) | 15W | $1.31 |
| Speed 2 (Medium) | 36W | $3.15 |
| Speed 3 (High) | 49W | $4.29 |
What’s more, the replacement filter is a bit too costly, making the Blueair 211+ overall a bit more expensive than expected for maintenance.
Filtration Technology
The Blueair 211+ is equipped with a 3-stage filtration system consisting of a pre-filter, a particle filter, and a carbon filter. In addition, the Blueair 211+ uses HEPASilent technology, which is essentially an ionizer that is always on and cannot be switched off. Particles in the air receive an electrical charge that makes them ‘sticky.’
So, smaller particles stick to the filter instead of simply passing through. Larger particles get trapped in the filter’s mesh.
Blueair is very vague and scarce on information about HEPASilent technology, how it works, where exactly it is, and other specifications. I even thought that the Blue series did not include this technology, so I checked with Blueair support, who responsibly claim that all Blueair air purifiers have built-in HEPASilent technology.
Blueair 211+ Replacement Filter
Always buy genuine filters for the best performance. As soon as the filter reset indicator is on, you are ready to change filters. Do it as quickly as possible.
View Filter Price On AmazonIt’s important to note that Blueair is CARB-certified, so you don’t have to worry about whether this model is producing an illegal amount of ozone.
Washable Pre-filter
The fabric pre-filter is the first stage of filtration. It is essentially a reusable, washable cloth that serves to trap larger particles of dust, pet hair, and the like, thus extending the life of the particle filter.
After the first day of use, I noticed that a lot of dust had accumulated on the pre-filter, thanks to the very high airflow. I really like that the pre-filter immediately shows how much dust is collected; in fact, at any time, you can see how much less dust you will inhale.
Particle Filter (Not-HEPA)
The particle filter is the second level of filtration. This is essentially the primary stage of filtration. Its purpose is to remove airborne particles such as pollen, dust, pet dander, and other small particles.
It’s a little disappointing that the Blueair 211+ doesn’t use a True HEPA filter. Still, nevertheless, this model performed excellently and showed that Blueair technology does its job perfectly. Many manufacturers are opting for patented technologies that they use for filtration.
For example, Molekule Air uses PECO technology, which is interesting but not as effective. In fact, I sometimes think that new technologies are ‘unnecessary’ to that extent, especially as the True HEPA filter is tested and does its job to a top-level.
Carbon Filter
The third level of filtration is a carbon-coated fiber filter. This final stage of filtration is responsible for removing household odors from pets, cooking, and smoking.
In my tests, the Blueair has shown okay (not good, not bad) results in eliminating smoke and smells. However, if the unit is exposed to a large amount of smoke every day, it gets dirty very quickly, and after a while, the filter needs to be replaced.
Simply put, the Blueair 211+ doesn’t have enough carbon to adsorb large amounts of smoke. For example, devices such as the Winix 5500-2 and Alen FLEX use carbon pellets which are much more massive and can adsorb much more smoke and are therefore more effective in combating odors than the Blueair 211+.
How To Replace Blueair 211+ Filter?
The Blueair 211+ uses a washable pre-filter, which does not need to be changed, but the combination of particle and carbon filter is not washable, so these filters need to be changed every 6 months on average. Fortunately, Blueair uses a filter reset indicator to let you know when to change the filter, so you don’t have to worry about these details.
Total time: 10 minutes.
Step 1
First, you need to open the device by gently pressing the release buttons on both sides.
Step 2
Remove the top from the bottom of the unit.
Step 3
Pull the old filter out and put the new filter in.
Step 4
Put back the top part of the air purifier and press it slowly until you hear a click.
Step 5
Plug in the device and reset the filter indicator by pressing the button and holding it for 3 seconds. The red light will turn to white, and you are ready for new filtration adventures.
Room Coverage and CADR
The Blueair 211+ is a large air purifier ideal for large rooms such as living rooms, large bedrooms, offices, family rooms, playrooms, and similar large rooms.
The Blueair is an AHAM-verified air purifier and has a CADR of 350CFM (590 m3/hr), which means that in a 540 sq. ft. room (50m2), it can purify the air 4.8x in one hour. I can say that this is a very high airflow and maybe even among the largest on the market. No wonder the 211+ is designed for large spaces.
Installation and Setup
Before starting up the Blueair 211+ air purifier, specific preparations must be made, which are extremely simple. The particle-carbon filter is already installed in the unit and ready to go. We only need to prepare the pre-filter.
With the purchase of the Blueair 211+, you get two fabric pre-filters (diva blue and dark shade). You need to choose the pre-filter you like and slide it onto the bottom half of the device. First, you need to separate the air purifier’s motor from the filter part by pressing the buttons on the side and then place the pre-filter on the metal housing on the bottom half of the machine.
This completes all the necessary preparation, so I recommend that you place the device on a solid surface, move it at least 10 inches away from the wall or other objects, plug it in, and switch it on. Please note that when setting up the unit, place it in a position where it can circulate a larger air volume. Most importantly, make sure the airflow is not blocked.
After 7 seconds of inactivity, the indicators around the button will dim by approximately 10% of their luminosity, which will be very pleasing to customers who intend to use the device in the bedroom.
Design
As I pointed out initially, the Blueair 211+ is a unique air purifier with some special design features only available in the Blue Pure series. The unit comprises two parts, the upper part is the motor, and the lower part is the filter. The upper part of the unit is made of hard plastic, completely white. The lower part is made of metal with holes, with a particle-carbon filter on the inside and a fabric pre-filter on the outside.
The Blueair 211+ is characterized by a pre-filter available in five colors: Lunar Rock, Crystal Pink, Dark Shadow, Buff Yellow, and Diva Blue. I am sure that everyone will find a color that suits them. My favorite is, of course, Diva Blue.
When it comes to design, I would strongly criticize the device’s dimensions and the lack of a carrying handle. The Blueair 211+ is a huge device, and without carrying handles, it is challenging to move it from place to place.
In short, this unique, modern air purifier will fit easily into almost any ambiance.
One Button for Ultimate Control
The Blueair 211+ is a minimal air purifier without advanced options. The idea behind this model was to clean the air as much as possible without disturbing the user with a multitude of options that may not be so necessary to enjoy clean filtered air. Because of all this, the Blueair 211+ has only one button located on the front, which is used to operate the device.
Each press of the button changes the current fan speed, and that’s basically it. In addition, the button is used when the filter reset indicator needs to be reset.
However, it is not that the Blueair 211+ has no advanced options at all. In fact, Blueair remembers the last default settings. If, for example, you leave the device running at speed 3 and switch it off, the next time you plug it back in, it will automatically switch on at speed 3. This is great because it means you can connect the Blueair 211+ to a smart plug to allow you to control the device via your mobile phone (a smart plug is required).
Airflow
I really like that the Blueair 211+ has air inlets on all sides, all four sides.
The device draws air through the vents in the lower half. The air is then filtered and exits through the grilles at the top.
The openings on all sides are easier positioning of the device, better and more efficient filtration, and much higher filter utilization.
Size and Dimensions
The air purifier weighs 15 lb (7 kg). The dimensions of the device are: 20.5 x 13 x 13 inches (52,2 x 33 x 33 cm). I should mention that the device is very bulky and you should consider this when buying it, as it will certainly take up a lot of space.
What’s in the box?
You will receive a Blueair 211+ air purifier, particle + carbon filter, fabric pre-filters, and user manual when you buy the device. After unpacking the device, it is necessary to prepare the Blueair for work, so I definitely recommend you go back to the beginning of the review, where I explain how to prepare the device for the initial start and make sure you don’t skip a single step.
Features Overview
The Blueair Blue Pure 211+ is an air purifier that isn’t enhanced with advanced options, clever extras, and fun, fashionable stuff. It’s a minimal air purifier embodied in simplicity, and it’s safe to say it’s unique on the market. Perhaps the downside is the lack of at least some features, as I personally noticed with Blueair that I miss the timer option, which I use very often.
The Blueair 211+ is not a smart device, it has no sensors, but it is compatible with a smart plug. If you are looking for an air purifier with air quality sensors, Blueair has released the successor to this model, the Blueair 211+ Auto, which has a smart sensor option and is slightly more advanced than this model in terms of equipment.
Flexible Pre-filters
Perhaps the most exciting feature of this model and its hallmark are the replacement pre-filters, available in 5 different colors. This will particularly appeal to dynamic people who want to break the monotony and change the device’s color to a brighter one from time to time.
The additional pre-filters are very affordable. I don’t think there is any reason not to buy more and refresh your Blueair 211+ air purifier.
Minimalism
The Blueair 211+ is characterized by minimalism, which is the basic principle on which this model is based. The device is easy to install and even easier to use. One button covers all the options on the device; you indeed can’t press the wrong button.
Filter Reset Indicator
A filter reset indicator is a handy option, mainly because, thanks to this option, you won’t have to keep track of when it’s time to change the filter; the Blueair 211+ will let you know.
The indicator around the control knob has two colors in addition to white. If the indicator glows yellow, it means it’s time to start thinking about a new filter (this is after about 5 months of use). Suppose you still haven’t changed the filter. In that case, the indicator will light up red, which I know indicates an urgent filter change (this indicator usually lights up after 6 months).
Certified Device
Blueair is a notable company that leaves nothing to chance, which is why the Blueair 211+ is a certified air purifier.
The AHAM certification confirms that Blueair has a CADR 350. The Energy Star certification confirms the energy efficiency of this model. Finally, the CARB certification affirms that the Blueair 211+ is safe to use and does not produce illegal amounts of ozone. Of course, this certification also allows you to buy a Blueair air purifier if you are from California.
Warranty
The Blueair 211+ comes with a 1-year warranty. However, if you register the unit on the Blueair website, you will receive a 2-year extended warranty. Blueair gives the lowest warranty for the Blue series. I don’t know why, but some of the other series, like the Classic series, have as much as a 5-year warranty.
FAQ on Blueair 211+
How do I reset the Blueair 211+ filter?
To reset the Blueair 211+ filter, you need to press the control button and hold your finger on it for 3 seconds.
Does the Blueair 211+ produce ozone?
The Blueair 211+ uses an ionizer, which means that it produces ozone. The good thing is that it is CARB-certified, which means it does not produce illegal amounts of ozone.
Does the Blueair 211+ use a True HEPA filter?
No, it doesn’t. Blueair uses a particle filter, a Blueair technology.
Hello Milan, your info was most informative.
My question is: is it ok to place my brand new
BlueAir 211+ directly on the carpet. No hardwood
Floors in my home. Thanks Rita
Hi Rita.
That would be okay!
*Just to add to the above, I purchased the Coway for my bedroom.
I’de like to know what speed you recommend running this Blue 211+ on if I plan to keep it on 24/7 in an open living room? I have been leaving it on the 2nd speed so far and I have had it a few days. I also purchased the Coway Airmega Mighty True HEPA Air Purifier with 361 sq. ft. Coverage and just have had it one day so far. It looks like from another review you recommend keeping that one on Eco mode? Last night I slept it on speed 2 and had no problem with sound. Thanks for your reviews. I have never had an air purifier until about a week ago when I purchased these 2 units for my 900 sq foot 2 bedroom house. I spent days doing research and landed on these 2. I picked up the Blue 211+ for $249 at Sams which is partly why I got that one for the living room. I know the Coway is good but was worried it wouldn’t be large enough for the open living room.
Hi Angela, thanks for commenting.
It’s all individual and depends on a person’s preferences. I personally don’t like and can’t bear loud buzzing, as is the case on many air purifiers at their max speeds. So, that’s why I usually use air purifiers in the Sleep Mode (when in the bedroom) and in the Auto Mode (or its equivalent ECO Mode) in everyday situations. And, of course, I use them at the max speed only while cooking or when there is a huge amount of some pollutants (when cleaning the house, which then becomes over dusty, or when there is someone who is smoking in my house, etc.).
As for the use of the air purifier 24/7, using it at the second speed is okay.
I’m sure you will be extremely satisfied with the air purifiers you purchased and that you will notice many benefits of using them!