Sometimes home doesn’t feel as fresh as it should. Between pet dander, cooking odors, and seasonal allergies, the air quality in a busy household can take a hit. We decided to put the Levoit Vital 100S to the test in a 300-square-foot room to see if it actually delivers. For around $150, it promises a lot of tech without breaking the bank here is what we found.
In this review, we cover the Vital 100s’ key features. We tested its filtration system, connected it via the VeSync app, and tried voice control with Alexa. We also checked noise levels and energy costs.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly air purifier, this review is for you. We aim to give you the facts. Decide if the Levoit Vital 100s is right for your home.
THE PET OWNER’S BEST FRIEND
*The Levoit Vital 100S stands out as the ultimate solution for pet owners. With its unique U-shaped air intake and specialized Pet Mode, it captures hair and dander more efficiently than standard models. If you need a smart, energy-efficient purifier that simplifies maintenance with a washable pre-filter, this is the best value you can find in 2026.*
What we like
- Three-stage filtration – Uses a pre-filter, HEPA-grade, and activated carbon system that captures a high percentage of airborne particles like dust, pollen, smoke, and pet dander.
- Smart connectivity – Works seamlessly with the VeSync app, plus voice control via Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.
- Real-time monitoring – Built-in sensors and the app show live air quality changes so you can automatically adjust settings.
- Quiet operation – Very low noise on sleep/low modes (down to ~23 dB), making it perfect for bedrooms and night use.
- Washable pre-filter – The pre-filter can be rinsed or cleaned, which helps slightly reduce long-term maintenance costs.
- Solid coverage – Optimized for medium-sized rooms (up to ~222 ft² with 4.8 air changes per hour) and even larger spaces at lower CADR rates.
What could be improved
- Filter replacement costs – Genuine replacement filters can be expensive, adding to the long-term cost of ownership.
- Connectivity issues – A small number of users report occasional app disconnects or initial pairing hassles.
- Odor/VOC removal – Carbon content and VOC effectiveness are limited compared to specialized models, especially for very strong smells.
- Sensor limitations – Built-in air quality sensors may occasionally read “very good” even when air quality hasn’t changed much.
- Noise at max speed – While very quiet on low, the fan becomes noticeably loud at its highest setting.
- Not for industrial use – Best suited to bedrooms or offices; a more powerful unit would be needed for very large open-plan areas.
Table of Contents
Levoit Vital 100s Review: First Impressions and Unboxing
We opened the box on a Tuesday morning. The packaging alone made us feel good. Everything was snug, well-protected, and clearly labeled. In this levoit vital 100s review, we’ll show you what we found inside and how fast we set it up.
What’s Included in the Box
Levoit keeps things simple. No unnecessary extras or confusing accessories. Here’s what came packed inside:
- Levoit Vital 100s main unit
- Pre-installed H13 True HEPA filter
- Power cord
- Quick start guide
- VeSync app setup instructions
The filter comes already seated inside the unit. That saved us a step right out of the gate.
Initial Setup Experience
The smart air purifier setup took us about five minutes. From opening the box to breathing cleaner air. We plugged it in, downloaded the VeSync app, and connected to Wi-Fi. The on-screen prompts were clear and easy to follow. No tech headaches at all.
“If you can connect a phone to Wi-Fi, you can set this up. It’s that straightforward.”
The control panel lit up with bright LED indicators the moment we powered it on. Each physical button had a satisfying click. We appreciated having both manual controls and app-based options right away.
Build Quality and Materials
At 9.3 pounds, this unit feels solid without being heavy. The plastic construction has a smooth matte finish that resists fingerprints – a small detail that matters when it sits in your living room daily.
The base is wide and sturdy. We gave it a few nudges to test stability, and it didn’t budge. No wobbling, no tipping risk around kids or pets. For the price point, the build quality impressed us more than expected. Now let’s dig into how this thing actually looks sitting in a room.
Design and Aesthetics of the Levoit Vital 100s
Looks matter, and this is true for gadgets on your nightstand or desk. In this review, we found the Levoit Vital 100s to be sleek and unobtrusive. Its compact design really stands out.
Compact Footprint for Small Spaces
This purifier is small, measuring 12.8″ x 6.4″ x 16.1″. It fits easily on bedside tables, office desks, and in tight spots. We placed it next to a lamp and still had room.
The 360-degree air intake pulls in air from all sides. This means it works well, even in small spaces.
We recommend placing it at least 15 inches from walls or furniture for the best airflow results.
Cable management is simple. The power cord is long enough to reach most outlets without stretching across a walkway.
Control Panel Layout and Accessibility
The top-mounted control panel is easy to reach. It has controls for:
- Power on/off
- Three fan speed levels
- Timer (2, 4, 6, or 8 hours)
- Display lock and dimming
Each button lights up with crisp LED feedback. Even in a dark bedroom, you can find the right control in seconds.
Color Options and Room Integration
Levoit offers the Vital 100s in white only. This might seem limited, but the clean, modern finish fits most decor styles. It blends well, from Scandinavian minimalism to a busy kid’s room.
The matte texture resists fingerprints, which we appreciated during weeks of daily testing. This design won’t clash with your space. It quietly disappears into the background, doing its job without drawing attention. Up next, we’ll dig into the key features and specs that power this unassuming little unit.
Key Features and Specifications
We dove deep into the levoit vital 100s specs. It’s packed with features for a small unit. It can clean up to 300 square feet with a CADR of 130 CFM. This is perfect for bedrooms, home offices, and small living areas.
The H13 True HEPA filter is the highlight. It catches 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns. This includes dust, pollen, pet dander, and mold spores. You can adjust the fan speed to balance power and quietness.
Smart connectivity is a standout feature. It connects via Wi-Fi and works with the VeSync app for remote control. You can also use voice commands with Amazon Alexa and Google Home. Adjust settings without leaving your couch. 🛋️
Here are some extra features:
- Sleep mode runs at 25 dB, almost silent
- An adjustable night light with customizable brightness
- A 24-hour programmable timer
- A built-in filter replacement indicator
For hassle-free clean air, smart controls and reminders are a game-changer.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Room Coverage | 300 sq ft |
| CADR Rating | 130 CFM |
| Filter Type | H13 True HEPA (3-stage) |
| Particle Capture Rate | 99.97% at 0.3 microns |
| Fan Speeds | 4 |
| Noise Level (Sleep Mode) | 25 dB |
| Smart Connectivity | Wi-Fi, VeSync App, Alexa, Google Home |
| Timer | Up to 24 hours |
| Night Light | Yes, adjustable brightness |
| Filter Replacement Indicator | Yes |
The Vital 100s has top-notch features for clean air and convenience. Now, let’s see how it performs in real-world tests.
Filtration System Performance Analysis
In our review of the Levoit Air Purifier Vital 100s, the filtration system shines. It has a three-stage approach to clean your air. This includes dust, allergens, and more.
Three-Stage Filtration Process Explained
The Vital 100s has three layers. The first catches big particles like pet hair. The second is an H13 True HEPA filter for smaller particles. The third layer, activated carbon, removes odors and gases.
HEPA Filter Effectiveness Against Allergens
The HEPA filter in the Vital 100s is very effective. It captures 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns. This includes pollen, dust mites, mold spores, and pet dander.
We saw a big change in allergy symptoms in just 48 hours. This is great for those with seasonal allergies or pet allergies.
Activated Carbon Layer for Odor Removal
The carbon layer is good at removing everyday smells. It handles cooking odors, pet smells, and light VOCs from cleaning products. But, it can’t handle strong chemical smells from paint or heavy solvents.
Pre-Filter Maintenance and Longevity
Clean the washable pre-filter every 2–4 weeks. This helps the HEPA and carbon layers last longer. Replacement filters cost about $30–$35 and last 6–8 months with care. This is a good investment for clean air at home.
A well-maintained pre-filter is the easiest way to stretch your replacement filter budget and keep HEPA filter performance at its peak.
Smart Features and App Connectivity
This levoit smart air purifier is truly smart. We connected it to our phone, tried voice commands, and explored all the automation options. Here’s what we found.
VeSync App Setup and Navigation
Connecting took less than two minutes. First, download the VeSync app and create an account. Then, connect via 2.4GHz Wi-Fi. Note that 5GHz networks won’t work.
Once connected, the VeSync app’s features are impressive. You get real-time air quality readings, filter life percentage, and full remote control of fan speeds. Adjusting settings from anywhere is easy. One small issue: we sometimes experienced connectivity drops that needed an app refresh.
Voice Control with Alexa and Google Assistant
We tested voice commands with Alexa and Google Assistant. Turning the unit on and off worked perfectly every time. Adjusting fan speeds by voice was also smooth. Asking for a status check gave quick, accurate responses.
“Alexa, set the air purifier to sleep mode” and it just works. No delays, no confusion.
Apple users should know there’s no HomeKit support. This is a notable gap for those in the Apple ecosystem.
Scheduling and Automation Options
The scheduling tools make this air purifier easy to use. You can set timers, auto-off programming, and a dedicated pet mode. The VeSync app lets you create routines that fit your life, not the other way around.
| Smart Feature | Availability | Performance Rating |
|---|---|---|
| VeSync App Control | iOS and Android | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Amazon Alexa | Full Support | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Google Assistant | Full Support | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Apple HomeKit | Not Supported | N/A |
| Custom Scheduling | Via App | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Pet Mode Automation | Via App | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Real-World Performance Testing Results
The Levoit Vital 100S is AHAM Verified, ensuring its CADR ratings for smoke, dust, and pollen are laboratory-tested and accurate.
Numbers don’t lie. For this levoit vital 100s review, we tested it in a 200-square-foot bedroom. We tracked particle counts, timed smoke clearance, and monitored allergy symptoms for weeks. Here’s what we found.
While the Vital 100S uses H13 True HEPA, if you are looking for medical-grade protection, see our PuroAir 240 Review which features HEPA 14 technology.
Our testing began with baseline particle readings. After turning on the Vital 100s, particles dropped by about 25% in 30 minutes. By the one-hour mark, we saw a 50% reduction. This is impressive for a mid-range unit in a bedroom-sized space.
We lit incense to simulate smoke and cooking odors. On the highest fan speed, the Vital 100s cleared visible smoke in roughly 15 minutes. The room smelled noticeably fresher within 20 minutes.
“After two weeks of running the Vital 100s overnight during spring pollen season, my morning congestion practically disappeared.”
Pet owners in studio apartments reported less visible dander on furniture and a major drop in lingering pet odors. The activated carbon filter clearly pulls its weight in small, enclosed spaces.
One important caveat from our levoit vital 100s review: performance drops off sharply in rooms larger than 250 square feet. If your space is bigger, you’ll want to size up to a more powerful model.
| Test Scenario | Room Size | Time | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Particle reduction (30 min) | 200 sq ft | 30 minutes | 25% decrease |
| Particle reduction (60 min) | 200 sq ft | 60 minutes | 50% decrease |
| Incense smoke clearance | 200 sq ft | 15 minutes | Visible smoke eliminated |
| Pet dander/odor (studio apt) | ~180 sq ft | Ongoing use | Noticeable dander and odor reduction |
| Large room performance | 300 sq ft | 60 minutes | Significant performance drop |
Bottom line? In the right-sized room, this purifier punches above its price point. Push it beyond 250 square feet, and you’ll feel the difference — in the wrong direction.
Noise Levels and Sleep Mode Operation
Noise is a big issue for many when looking for a quiet air purifier. We tested the Levoit Vital 100s with a decibel meter. The results were impressive, given its price.
Decibel Measurements Across Speed Settings
We measured the noise three feet away from the unit. Sleep mode was incredibly quiet at 25 dB. Low was 33 dB, Medium 42 dB, and High 52 dB. The highest setting was as quiet as rain outside.
How does the Vital 100s compare to others? We looked at rival models to show you the difference.
| Air Purifier Model | Lowest Setting (dB) | Highest Setting (dB) |
|---|---|---|
| Levoit Vital 100s | 25 | 52 |
| Coway AP-1512HH | 24.4 | 53.8 |
| Blueair Blue Pure 411 | 18 | 46 |
The Vital 100s is a top choice for those who value quiet. Its sleep mode is perfect for light sleepers. We tested it for several nights.
Night Light Features and Customization
The built-in night light has two brightness levels and an off option. It’s a soft amber that won’t disrupt your sleep. It’s great for moving around in the dark without tripping.
A good air purifier should clean your air without reminding you it exists even at 2 a.m.
In sleep mode, the display dims completely. This means no harsh lights to disturb you. It’s a small feature that makes a big difference for light-sensitive sleepers. With noise and light controlled, let’s see how it affects your electricity bill next.
Energy Efficiency and Operating Costs
Let’s talk money. Running an air purifier 24/7 adds up, so we tracked the levoit vital 100s energy consumption over several weeks. The results? Pretty wallet-friendly.
On its highest speed, this unit draws about 23 watts. Drop it to the lowest setting, and you’re looking at just 8 watts. That’s less than a standard LED light bulb. Running it nonstop for a full year, expect to pay roughly $15–$20 in electricity.
Electricity is only part of the picture. The full operating costs include replacement filters, and that’s where the real expense lives. Levoit recommends swapping the filter every 6–8 months. At around $30–$35 per filter, you’ll need about two per year.
“The cheapest air purifier to buy isn’t always the cheapest to own. Always factor in long-term filter and energy costs before purchasing.”
Here’s a breakdown of what a full year looks like:
| Expense Category | Estimated Annual Cost |
|---|---|
| Electricity (24/7 operation) | $15–$20 |
| Replacement Filters (2 per year) | $60–$70 |
| Total Annual Operating Costs | $80–$90 |
One thing worth noting: the Vital 100s does not carry an Energy Star certification. Some competing models from Blueair and Coway do. That said, the levoit vital 100s energy consumption still stays well within a reasonable range for its class.
You can verify its efficiency on the Official Energy Star Database.
Auto mode is a real cost saver here. It reads air quality in real time and adjusts the fan speed on its own. When the air is clean, it dials way down meaning less power draw when you don’t need it. This smart adjustment keeps operating costs low without you lifting a finger.
At under $90 a year to run, this purifier won’t break the bank. That sets up an interesting comparison with other Levoit models, which we’ll dig into next.
Comparing the Vital 100s to Other Levoit Models
Levoit offers many air purifiers. How does the Vital 100s compare to others? We compared the models to find the best fit for your space and budget.
Vital 100s vs Core 300s Comparison
The Core 300s costs about $100, while the Vital 100s is around $150. The Vital 100s has smart features like app control and voice support. If you just want clean air, the Core 300s is a good choice at a lower price.
| Feature | Vital 100s | Core 300s |
|---|---|---|
| Price (MSRP) | $150 | $100 |
| Room Coverage | Up to 300 sq ft | Up to 219 sq ft |
| Smart App Control | Yes (VeSync) | Yes (VeSync) |
| Voice Assistant | Alexa & Google | Alexa & Google |
| Auto Mode | Yes | No |
| Filtration Stages | 3-Stage | 3-Stage |
Best Levoit Air Purifier for Different Room Sizes
Choosing the right Levoit air purifier depends on your room size. Here’s a quick guide:
- Bedrooms and offices under 300 sq ft: Vital 100s – quiet, smart, and perfectly sized.
- Living rooms up to 400 sq ft: Core 400s – more airflow for medium spaces.
- Open floor plans over 400 sq ft: Core 600s – built for large, open areas.
Price-to-Performance Ratio Analysis
In our comparison, the Vital 100s offers the best value for smart features. It has app scheduling, auto mode, and voice control for $150. It’s perfect for those who want automation without spending too much.
If you don’t care about smart features, grab the Core 300s. If you want the full connected experience without overspending, the Vital 100s is the sweet spot.
Next, we’ll share our final thoughts on whether the Vital 100s is right for your home.
Our Impression
After weeks of testing, our takeaway is simple: the Levoit Vital 100S is arguably the best smart air purifier you can get for under $150. It hits that “sweet spot” by offering a high-performance filtration system and modern smart features without the premium price tag.
What really won us over is the thoughtful U-shaped design. Unlike the cylindrical models that need to sit in the middle of the room, you can tuck the Vital 100S against a wall, making it a dream for small apartments and cluttered bedrooms. The Infrared Air Quality Sensor proved to be responsive, and the VeSync app remains one of the most stable and user-friendly smart home platforms we’ve tested.
It’s not perfect, of course. While it’s a powerhouse for dust and pet hair, the carbon filter is on the thinner side, so don’t expect it to eliminate heavy chemical fumes or intense smoke as quickly as a $500 unit would. Also, keep in mind that filter replacements are an ongoing cost you’ll need to budget for twice a year.
The Bottom Line: If you’re a pet owner, an allergy sufferer, or just someone who wants a “set-it-and-forget-it” solution for a medium-sized room, the Vital 100S is a stellar investment. It’s quiet, it’s smart, and most importantly—it actually makes the air feel lighter and fresher.
FAQS
What is the air quality of the Levoit Vital 100S?
The Vital 100S features an Infrared Air Quality Sensor that monitors your environment in real-time. It displays air quality via a color-coded LED ring (Blue, Green, Orange, Red) and provides a specific PM2.5 reading through the VeSync app, allowing for precise tracking of indoor pollutants.
What is the difference between the Levoit Core 300S and Vital 100S?
The primary difference is the design and intake. The Core 300S is cylindrical with 360° air intake, making it ideal for the center of a room. The Vital 100S has a U-shaped front intake, which is specifically designed so you can place it against a wall, making it a better space-saver for smaller apartments or bedrooms.
What is the difference between the Levoit Core 200S and Vital 100S?
The Vital 100S is more powerful and feature-rich than the 200S. While the Core 200S is an entry-level smart purifier for small rooms, the Vital 100S offers a higher CADR (Clean Air Delivery Rate), a dedicated pet-hair-friendly intake, and a more advanced air quality sensor that the 200S lacks.
Which Levoit air purifier is best?
The “best” model depends on your needs. For pet owners, the Vital 100S is often the best choice due to its washable pre-filter and wide intake. For large open-plan spaces, the Core 600S is superior. For budget-conscious buyers seeking smart features, the Vital 100S offers the best balance of price and performance.
How often should you change the filter on a Levoit Vital 100S?
You should replace the HEPA/Carbon filter every 6 to 12 months. The exact timing depends on your air quality and usage frequency. The Vital 100S features a “Filter Check Indicator” that will light up to notify you when it’s time for a fresh one.
