Air Purifier Vs. Ionizer Comparisons: Which One Should You Get?

When it comes to air purifiers, there are two main types: the air purifier with air filters and the ionizer (this is also known as a "UV air purifier.") Both have their unique benefits and drawbacks, so it can be challenging to decide which one is right for you.

In this article, we will compare and contrast these two types of air purifiers in detail so that you can decide which one is best for you.

Air Purifiers

Utilizing air cleaners (or air purifiers) is the most classic method of removing particles and contaminants from your breathing air. This technology has had decades to develop and evolve. The air purifier is very simple because it uses an air filter that needs to be replaced periodically and otherwise requires no further maintenance. The air purifier works by stimulating airflow in the space it occupies and collecting large and fine particles into its filter cartridge. After some time, the air filter gets too clogged and dirty and simply requires a replacement.

On the other hand, the ionizer uses a newer technology that can do everything independently without having to use any air filters. You plug it in, and it uses UV light to target fine airborne particles. The most significant hype with the ionizer is its unique ability to disable virus particles. You might wonder why the ionizer is the least popular choice given how easy it is to use. Sure, it's understandable that this technology came out later-- but after all this time, how are they not well-known enough to become the new norm? The most self-explanatory answer: They pose a danger to your health.

So how does an ionizer work exactly?

Ionizers (UV Air Purifiers)

It uses high voltage to charge air molecules electrically. This process creates ions, particles that have either gained or lost electrons. These charged particles then attach themselves to dust, pollen, smoke, and other airborne contaminants. That is if they are small enough-- ionizers don't do so well with large particles. And unlike an air purifier, they can't remove odor and smoke molecules either.

You have to wonder, without a filter, where do all of the particles "go"? They don't disappear. Simply put, the airborne particles are negatively charged to clump together and condense the grounds they cover. You will still need to wipe surfaces and regularly clean them to remove the contaminants properly.

Furthermore, ionizers have a significant downside: They emit UV rays that are harmful to your health and can cause skin cancer. Ironically, this is the same technology that can "suspend" or disable a virus. But if it takes UV rays to disable a virus, it's not worth targeting-- especially if it can cause serious health issues later.

There's more, we're not done yet! The charging of negative ions, which is the exact process the ionizer uses to collect and sort particles, releases more ozone than a standard air purifier would. In other words, this is bad news for people with respiratory issues, asthma, and allergies. Ozone is irritating to the lungs and can worsen respiratory problems.

Now you might be wondering: What is the benefit of an ionizer? Truthfully not much, which is why it isn't as well known and will never reach the popularity you might expect. One thing an ionizer can do that an air purifier can't is kill virus particles. But an air purifier can still collect them, although there's no guarantee you're entirely safe. In any case, air purifiers are the best at covering every ground and don't have consequences to use.

Pros and Cons

Get the Air Purifier!

So, to sum it up: Air purifiers with air filters are more classic, have been around longer, and don't come with any health risks. Ionizers are newer on the market, use UV light, which can harm your health, and clump particles together instead of truly "purifying" the air. Remember: If it's too good to be true, it probably is.