3M FAP04-RC Filtrete Ultra-Slim Room Air Purifier

This model is, as of May 2007 the latest from 3M's new series of air purifiers (3M has been making the filters for years, but it's a relative newcomer to the air purifier market). Speaking as an allergy sufferer and former asthmatic, I've had air purifiers around me for years before Sharper Image made the things 'go mainstream' with their incessant advertising for their Ionic Breeze.

This unit works extremely well. The filter is a good quality 3M one that captures pollen, dander, and dust mite debris. It's easy to install slides into a mount in the machine and it moves a large volume of air. (The filter's price is in line with other purifiers in this range.)

Noise in the lowest setting is almost nonexistent, which is a must when you keep a purifier in the bedroom like me. Noise is considerable at the highest setting, but no more than comparable machines.

There are three especially nice features on this model.

First, the slimline case, which comes with a mounting bracket if you want to hang the unit on the wall(!) is handier than one might think. Purifiers have to be 'central but unobtrusive' that is, most aren't all that pleasing to look at but they move air best when in a central location. The slim case and mounting pieces will give you the most options to slip the unit by a bed, next to a couch, etc.

Second, if you (as I do) keep one in the bedroom, it's nice to be able to turn off the lit indicators. Not only is this just extra power going to waste, it also lets you keep the room nice and dark when you sleep.

Finally, you have a setting which detects heavy particle emissions in the air, from smoke or dust. Upon sensing this change, the machine will automatically kick up in speed until the air is clear. A nice feature, though I caution that this is the only option that I haven't tested out yet as I don't have any friends that smoke, and I refuse to burn dinner to test it out.

Update: This feature does actually work; I spilled some talcum near the machine and in seconds it cranked up the setting as it sensed the particles of powder in the air and kept it raised for 10 minutes until the air cleared.

About the only criticism I have of the unit is its high price, though this may come down in time. Finally, if you want to move a lot more air albeit for a slightly higher price I'd recommend the Whirlpool Whispure 510 Air Purifier (AP51030S) HEPA Air Cleaner.