Blueair Blue Pure 311i+ vs Winix 5500-2 — Which Should You Buy?

Side-by-side comparison of Blueair Blue Pure 311i+ and Winix 5500-2. We compare specs, performance, and value to help you decide.

Updated 2026-03-09 Independently reviewed
Blueair Blue Pure 311i+

Blueair Blue Pure 311i+

8.5/10
$199 /one-time
VS
Winix 5500-2

Winix 5500-2

8.4/10
$159 /one-time

Feature Comparison

Feature Blueair Blue Pure 311i+ Winix 5500-2
Room Coverage Up to 387 sq ft Up to 360 sq ft
CADR 250 (smoke), 250 (dust), 250 (pollen) 232 (smoke), 243 (dust), 246 (pollen)
Filter Type HEPASilent + activated carbon True HEPA + carbon + PlasmaWave
Filter Life 6 months (main filter) 12 months
Annual Filter Cost ~$60 ~$40
Noise Level 31–56 dB 27–56 dB
Smart Features App, scheduling Auto mode
Air Quality Sensor Yes Yes
Weight 8.4 lbs 14.3 lbs
Energy Star Yes Yes

Blueair Blue Pure 311i+

Pros

  • ✓HEPASilent technology is very quiet
  • ✓Washable fabric pre-filter
  • ✓Energy-efficient operation
  • ✓App control and scheduling
  • ✓Multiple filter color options
  • ✓Compact design
  • ✓Low filter costs

Cons

  • ✗Lower CADR than competitors
  • ✗Fabric filter attracts dust visibly
  • ✗No particle display

Winix 5500-2

Pros

  • ✓Excellent value for performance
  • ✓PlasmaWave for additional odor reduction
  • ✓Auto mode with pollutant sensing
  • ✓Washable pre-filter
  • ✓Carbon filter for odors
  • ✓Sleep mode with display off
  • ✓Energy Star certified

Cons

  • ✗PlasmaWave produces trace ozone (some prefer off)
  • ✗Louder at high speeds
  • ✗Plastic build

Our Verdict

Blueair Blue Pure 311i+

A solid choice for smaller rooms where quiet operation and aesthetics matter. The washable pre-filter helps reduce long-term costs.

Limited Offer — Check Today's Price

Winix 5500-2

Best budget pick. Strong CADR, auto mode, and low filter costs make it hard to beat for under $200.

Special Deal Available — See Offer

Our Methodology

We test each air purifier in a sealed 250 sq ft room with a particle counter, measuring PM2.5 reduction over 1 hour. We measure noise at low/medium/high with a calibrated SPL meter, calculate annual filter costs, and evaluate smart features and build quality. No manufacturer has editorial influence.

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