Xiaomi has long been a trailblazer in the world of affordable yet high-quality tech, and their Smart Air Purifiers are no exception. With the latest 4 series, the Chinese powerhouse has not only built upon the strengths of previous generations, but has also taken a turn for the sensible with their model names. As a proud owner of the Xiaomi Mi Air Purifier 3H for the past two years, I can attest to its effectiveness in making a tangible difference to the air quality within my personal sanctuary. My own anecdotal evidence suggests that this unassuming corner dweller has helped alleviate my asthma symptoms and proved to be a trusty ally when it comes to banishing pesky soldering odours from my makeshift lab.
Introducing the Xiaomi Smart Air Purifier 4 line-up
In a refreshing move towards simplicity, Xiaomi has christened its latest generation of air purifiers under the unified name: Xiaomi Smart Air Purifier 4. The line-up consists of three distinct models, each tailored to fit different needs and budgets: First up is the Xiaomi Smart Air Purifier 4, the worthy successor to the popular Xiaomi Mi Air Purifier 3/H. For those seeking a more budget-friendly option, the Xiaomi Smart Air Purifier 4 Lite offers a slightly pared-down experience while still retaining the core functionality, making it a comparable alternative to the Xiaomi Mi Air Purifier 3C. Finally, for larger spaces in need of a breath of fresh air, the Xiaomi Smart Air Purifier 4 Pro has you covered.
Xiaomi Smart Air Purifier 4: Bigger, better, and fresher
The Xiaomi Smart Air Purifier 4, a tad larger than its predecessor, boasts dimensions of 250 × 250 × 520 mm. This slight increase in size brings with it a welcome 5% boost in Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) to 400 m³/h, while reportedly consuming 20% less energy and producing less noise.
Efficiency improvements aside, the standout feature in this new model is a negative air ion (NAI) generator. While the science behind the benefits of NAIs is still inconclusive, they have been shown to effectively remove particulate matter and ultrafine particulate matter. Xiaomi claims that the NAI generator will make the air from the purifier fresher, without making any further assertions about NAI benefits.
Xiaomi introduces a new filter exclusive to the Smart Air Purifier 4, which features a thicker layer of activated carbon and their proprietary High-Efficiency Filter. This design allows for improved airflow, resulting in quieter and more efficient operation. Remember to change the filter annually, and double-check that you're purchasing the correct one.
While not exactly repair-friendly, the Xiaomi Smart Air Purifier 4 is at least easy to clean. The fan grill on top can be removed without fumbling with tabs or screws, making the device's insides accessible for maintenance.
The Xiaomi Smart Air Purifier 4 will be available in the Swiss Xiaomi store from March, priced at CHF199 (~US$220) including taxes.
Xiaomi Smart Air Purifier 4 Lite: Compact and budget-friendly
The Xiaomi Smart Air Purifier 4 Lite stands a mere centimetre taller than the Mi Air Purifier 3/H and offers a more wallet-friendly alternative to the base model. It omits the negative ion generator and has a slightly lower CADR of 360 m³/h. Similar to previous budget models like the Mi Air Purifier 3C, you'll need to remove the top compartment to access the filter. The 4 Lite also introduces a new and unique filter model.
The design of the 4 Lite leans towards a boxier shape with subtly rounded edges, and Xiaomi's logo is now displayed prominently on the front. The OLED screen found in the base and Pro models is swapped out for a basic seven-segment display, reminiscent of an alarm clock, featuring capacitive buttons.
The Xiaomi Smart Air Purifier 4 Lite will be available in the Swiss Xiaomi store from March, priced at CHF169 (~US$183) including taxes.
Xiaomi Smart Air Purifier 4 Pro: The ultimate powerhouse
Completing the lineup, the Xiaomi Smart Air Purifier 4 Pro is the biggest and priciest of the three models. With dimensions of 275 × 275 × 680 mm, this powerhouse is designed to purify vast spaces or large rooms up to 60㎡, thanks to its impressive CADR of 400 m³/h.
The 4 Pro is essentially an upscaled version of the base model, sporting a similar design and featuring a negative ion generator. Moreover, it's more efficient and quieter in operation compared to previous Pro models.
The Xiaomi Smart Air Purifier 4 Pro is available in the Swiss Xiaomi store for CHF299 (~US$325) including taxes.
Is the Xiaomi Smart Air Purifier 4 worth the switch?
Deciding to upgrade from your current air purifier to the Xiaomi Smart Air Purifier 4 boils down to two key considerations: the allure of the negative air ion generator and the prospect of quieter operation. If these features are on your must-have list, then the 4 series may be the perfect fit for you. However, if you're content with your existing Mi Air Purifier 3H, like me, it might be worth holding on to it for now.
