Levoit Core 400S is a recently released Levoit model, which I have already tested here on Air Purifier First. Today, I decided to compare it with the well-known Levoit Core 300 air purifier.
Firstly, I want to clarify something. These are two amazing air purifiers, extremely efficient and reliable, and you won’t make a mistake whichever you choose. But, if you want to find out which is a better buying option and whether the new Levoit Core 400S could be a better buying option than the Core 300, then keep reading.
Table of Contents
The Levoit Core 400S is intended for rooms up to 403 sq. ft., while the Levoit Core 300 covers up to 219 sq. ft. The Core 400S is a much larger air purifier with more features and larger filters.
When speaking of design and build quality, I must say that I don’t have any objections to either, as they are good-quality devices. They both come with a 2-year warranty, require replacing filters approximately twice per year, and are affordable air purifiers.
In the following table, besides detailed specifications, you will find which one did better in performance tests, which is less noisy, and which is cheaper to maintain.
Specs: Levoit Core 400S Vs Core 300
| Product Image |  |  |
| Manufacturer | Levoit | Levoit |
| Model | Core 400S | Core 300 |
| Dimensions (inches / cm) | 10.8 x 10.8 x 20.5 inches (27.4 x 27.4 x 52 cm) | 8.7 x 8.7 x 14.2 inches (22 x 22 x 36 cm) |
| Weight (pounds / kg) | 10.5 Ib (4.8 kg) | 7.5 lb (3.4kg) |
| Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) | 260 CFM (442 m³/h) | 141 CFM (240 m³/h) |
| 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. | 403 sq. ft. (37 m²) | 219 sq. ft. (20 m²) |
| Performance Ratings Performance Ratings Score Summary: 8.5 - Average Score (67 products) 9.8 - Best Score (2 products) 2.5 - Worst Score (2 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. | ||
| Filtration Technology | Pre-filter, True HEPA Filter, and Activated Carbon Filter | Pre-filter, True HEPA Filter, and Activated Carbon Filter |
| Filter Replacement Indicator | Yes | Yes |
| Filter Life | up to 12 months | 6-8 months |
| 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. | 38W (24W European Model) | 45W |
| 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. | ||
| Number of Fan Speeds | 5 – Sleep Mode, Low Mode, Medium Mode, High Mode, and Turbo Mode | 4 – Sleep Mode, Speed 1, Speed 2, and Speed 3 |
| Air Quality Sensor Air Quality Sensor Summary: Out of 67 air purifiers tested, only 31 have the air quality sensor. | Yes | No |
| Air Quality Indicator | Yes | No |
| Auto Mode Auto Mode Summary: Out of 67 air purifiers tested, only 32 have auto mode functionality. | Yes | No |
| Smart App Smart App Summary: Out of 67 air purifiers tested, only 20 have smart app functionality. | Yes | No |
| Voice Control Voice Control Summary: Out of 67 air purifiers tested, only 20 have voice control functionality. | Yes | No |
| Other Features | Display OffDisplay LockTimer | Display LockDisplay OffTimer |
| Noise Level (low – high) | 42.1 – 59.9 dBA | 40.7 – 64.9 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 Kitchens Allergies Large Spaces Dust Smart Home Integration Air Quality Monitoring | Bedrooms Small Spaces Dust Allergies Children's Rooms |
| Warranty | 2-year | 2-year |
| In-Depth Review | Levoit Core 400S | Levoit Core 300 |
| Price | Check Price on Amazon | Check Price on Amazon |
Features Overview
Although it may seem as if these air purifiers have some basic features, those features are the ones that give great performances. Let’s check them out.
Air Quality Sensor and Air Quality Indicator
The Levoit Core 400S uses an AirSight Plus laser dust sensor, located at the rear part of the unit. The sensor detects real-time PM2.5 particles. You can check the information at any time, either through Display data or by using a Smart App. And, as long as you keep your air purifier plugged in, this sensor will keep running.
Unfortunately, the Core 300 version is missing out on this option.
Auto Mode
Having Auto Mode is a privilege of Levoit Core 400S only. This mode liberates you from deciding which speed mode fits you best at the moment. Once you turn it ON, it will adjust the operating mode and the speed level according to the real-time air quality. You can use it in three ways: as a standard, a silent, and an efficient auto mode.
Here is a fun fact: You can never use the Auto mode and the Turbo mode at the same time.
Sleep Mode
One of the features I find user-friendly is the Sleep mode. More so if it comes as a stand-alone speed level. Both Levoit products have this feature, and I have had the opportunity to use it for quite some time.
You can use Levoit Core 400S in your bedroom through the night, thanks to dimmed lights and no noise to disturb your sleep.
However, I consider that Levoit Core 300 has a better Sleep Mode. Thanks to the QuietKEAP technology, this air purifier is barely noticeable in your bedroom. Also, thanks to the Display-off function, you can completely darken your room.
Filter Reset Indicator
With the Filter Reset Indicator installed, you will have one less thing to worry about because it will light up as soon as the filter needs a replacement. Both Core 300 and Core 400S have this feature, with a slight plus in favor of the Core 400S, that allows you to monitor the filter wear through the VeSync App at the same time.
Smart App (VeSync)
In today’s comparison, only the Levoit Core 400S is entitled to this feature. You can use the VeSync App regardless of whether you have an Android or an iOS device.
Once you install it, you will be able to control your air purifier completely in a way that improves and upgrades its functionality.
Screen off / Display Off
Even though it seems as if it is the same feature, there are still some differences. Screen off is the Core 400S option that, once ON, dims all the indicators on this air purifier. This way, the air purifier is safe to use in the bedroom during the night.
On the other hand, the display-off feature that the Core 300 has ensures a complete blackout of the display. None of the lights will be present if you decide to put this device in your bedroom.
Lock Screen / Display Lock
The producer may call it Lock Screen or Display Lock, but evidently, they are one and the same thing. By pressing the button for 3 seconds only, the air purifier will lock all of its functions, except for the power button and display light button in Core 300. The same thing goes if you want to unlock it. The Core 400S model has a bit of an advantage considering you can control this option through the Smart app, too.
Timer
Having a Timer as a feature can always be of great help. Especially in times when we get preoccupied with day-to-day tasks.
Levoit Core 300 lets you set this option at 2h, 4h, 6h, or 8h of continuous purifying. However, Levoit Core 400S allows you even more flexibility by choosing between 1-12h. You can do this via Display or the VeSync app.
Airflow
Since both air purifiers have a cylindrical shape, their filters are equally shaped. The same goes for the airflow. The air inlets are spread all over the bottom part of both appliances. Once the air gets into the air purifier, it runs through the filters and releases through the grills on the upper side.
Warranty
As a company, Levoit will provide you with a 2-year warranty for its products, but under certain conditions. If you decide to purchase the Levoit Core 300, you will get a one-year warranty, with an option to prolong for one more year if you register on the Levoit website within 14 days after the day you purchased it.
As for the Levoit Core 400S, you will have to register your device straight after purchase if you want to be covered by the warranty. The good thing is you can do it via their website and also through the VeSync Smart App. That way you will be covered with the 2-year warranty.
Filtration Technology
Regarding filtration technology, the Levoit Core 400S and Levoit Core 300 have the same filters, only differently arranged.
While the Levoit Core 400S has only a standard 3-in-1 filter combination, the Levoit Core 300 has additional filter packages available.
The standard combo that never fails is a pre-filter, True HEPA, and an activated carbon filter. A pre-filter is a kind of shield that protects the True HEPA filter from the large particles to which we are exposed daily. I am referring to dust, lint, pet hair dander, fibers, etc. The True HEPA filter is in charge of at least 99.97% of the finest airborne particles, which is why it always gives outstanding results. The latest carbon filter is used to neutralize odors from your home or working area.
Now, the additional filters available only for Core 300 are pet allergy, toxin absorber, and mold bacteria filters. Find detailed description in Levoit Core 300 individual review.
How To Replace Filters On These Devices?
Replacing the filter within your air purifier is not as difficult as it may seem. On that path, a good ally is always welcome. By allies, I mean the filter reset indicator. Both Core 400S and Core 300 have this feature, so rest assured you will get notified right on time.
With Levoit Core 400S, there is a simple procedure. Since filters are united in one piece, all you have to do is put out the old filter and replace it with the new one. Good vacuuming along the way would be nice to do. It will take about 12 months before you’ll need to do the replacement.
Levoit Core 300 has the same procedure but with a shorter expiration date. The filter within this air purifier tends to last between 6 and 8 months before the indicator lights up.
Noise Test
Having 5-speed levels means Levoit Core 400S is pretty adaptable to users’ needs. You can easily adjust the level of purifying, hence the level of noise. With this air purifier, you will get three standard speed modes, plus the Turbo and the Sleep mode. Setting this air purifier to Sleep mode will be helpful if you plan to use it in your bedroom. There are no unnecessary crackling sounds, so you won’t even notice it’s there. However, if you set it to Turbo mode, a 59.9 dBA might be too much for you. Just bear in mind this is the mode that provides the best airflow and, therefore, the best results.
Contrary to Core 400S, its opponent Core 300, has a contrasting behavior. If you put it to Sleep mode, you will be pleasantly surprised because it is quieter than the Core 400S. It gives that sleek run that will not interrupt your sleep. On the other hand, if you turn it to the max speed, it might start to produce more noise than you can tolerate. I wish it could be quieter because 64.9 dBA can be really annoying sometimes, no matter how effective it is.
| Product | Noise Range (dBA) |
|---|---|
| Levoit Core 400S | 42.1 – 59.9 dBA |
| Levoit Core 300 | 40.7 – 64.9 dBA |
In my opinion, the Levoit Core 400S definitely produces less noise than the Core 300. It does not interfere with my sleep and still does the job well when I speed it up.
Performance Tests
Sometimes the size of the appliance may not be evident just by looking at the picture. Especially if they’re shaped the same way. As I said, the Core 400S is a way bigger appliance than the Core 300, which is the reason that the coverage is almost twice as big. Levoit Core 400S can cover up to 403 sq. ft. room size, while Levoit Core 300 can cover half of it or up to 219 sq. ft.
The test I conducted had to be done separately, and each air purifier was tested for a whole hour while being set to a maximum speed level. Let’s check out the results of various tests.
The Core 300 Test in a 194 sq. ft. Room
This is the test I conducted only with the Core 300, and, as you can see, it is a smaller room than the recommended one. I am pleased to say that this air purifier managed to clean the air by up to 93%.
320 sq. ft. Room Tests
I wanted to do a test that would put both air purifiers under the same conditions. After all, this is a comparison, and it doesn’t necessarily need to be easy. So with that being said, I must emphasize the 92% improved air quality, all thanks to Levoit Core 300. Great result for such a small device. As for the other contestant, Levoit Core 400S, the end result was a remarkable 96%.
320 sq. ft. Room
* Data measuring time is 60 minutes.
The Core 400S Test in a 560 sq. ft. Room
This was also a separate test, with the Core 400S as a starring role. Since this room size exceeds the recommended one, I was a little worried about how it will turn out. By the end of the 60-minute test, the air quality was improved by 91%, which is more than great.
Even though I struggled with the verdict, since both air purifiers did a great job, I still had to put one in front of the other. As for the performance rating, this time, I chose Levoit Core 400S. It just blew the dust away.
Operating Costs
Contrary to their sizes, the motors of these air purifiers are a whole different story. On one hand, the Levoit Core 400S is a bigger appliance with a 38W power motor. On the other hand, the Levoit Core 300 has a 45W motor.
With a supreme appliance such as Core 400S, you must be prepared to pay a higher price. That means you might have to double the amount you would give for the Core 300 if you want to own the Core 400S.
As for the filter price, it might seem like the Core 400S has more expensive filters. But the fact is, you would have to replace it once a year, while Core 300 makes you do it more often.
Another thing, If you leave both air purifiers operating for a whole month, at maximum speed level, the final electricity bill will tell you if the appliance is affordable or not. In this case, there isn’t much of a difference since Core 400S will cost you 3$, while Core 300 will rise to 3.80$, which is not much higher.
| Product | Wattage Range (W) |
|---|---|
| Levoit Core 400S | 0.9 – 35W |
| Levoit Core 300 | 0.8 – 43.5W |
After all, I honestly think that Levoit Core 400S is a better and less expensive choice if we consider what you get for the price!
Levoit Core 300 Vs Levoit Core 400S Video Comparison
Which One Does It Better?
Levoit Core 400S is equipped with features such as an air quality sensor, air quality indicator, auto mode, smart app, and more. Along with exceptional performance, this makes Core 400S a better buying option.
But, as I said in the beginning, you won’t be wrong even if you choose the Levoit Core 300, so you can go with it if you disagree with my decision.
If you have questions about these two air purifiers, feel free to leave a comment in the comment box below the article.
Has your view of these changed now that their TrueHEPA claims have been publicly debunked by Dyson? I have the 300S and not sure how I feel about it.
Yes, I saw that case. Honestly, I was surprised and didn’t expect a brand like Levoit to allow something like this to happen.
However, from another perspective, Levoit, which has sold several million devices, is a major competitor to Dyson. In my opinion, it’s normal for competitors to sue each other and fight in every possible way to win more potential customers.
I don’t favor the fact that Levoit manipulated customers, but honestly, it doesn’t change the fact that the filtration in the Levoit air purifiers I’ve tested is of very high quality and that they are some of the best devices on the market.
What concerns me more is the fact that some other brands, particularly Chinese or some no-name brands, can write whatever they want in the product description, and it might go unnoticed. I plan to touch on this in the future and will dedicate more time to researching the filtration technology of less popular air purifiers.
In any case, this is a very good question; thank you!
If you have any more questions, don’t hesitate to ask. Regards!
Is there a big difference between 92 percent and 96 percent filtration? it sounds like the core 300 can be sufficent in a 320 square foot space as well. I am looking at the lower cost of buying the core 300 compared to the 400s. If i just run it longer, will the result be the same as the 400s?
Also, can you put the core 300 on sleep mode the entire time to reduce noise? will that still be efficent in purifying a 120 square foot room?
It all depends on how quickly your room is becoming dirty or polluted. If your room is constantly getting polluted – say, from cigarette smoke, cooking smoke, or the like – then I would suggest going with a more powerful air purifier.
However, for a room of 120 sq. ft., the Core 300 would be more than good, even when it’s running in sleep mode.
The reason I’m shopping for a levoit is for mold absorption from the air. Is there info which model is more efficient for mold?
Any model with a True HEPA filter will remove airborne mold spores. I suggest choosing the one that best fits your room size.
Question— can I leave the Levoit 400 running continuously even if I am not home for a few days ?
Of course, you can!
However, I suggest connecting it with the VeSync smart app and then turning it on via the app a few hours/sometime before you get back home.