Looking for a compact air purifier that won’t take up your entire desk or nightstand? You’ve probably stumbled across the Honeywell HPA060 while researching small room air purifiers. With the Honeywell name attached and promises of True HEPA filtration, it seems like a safe bet for dorms, bedrooms, and small apartments.
But here’s the thing: not all Honeywell air purifiers are created equal. While the brand has built a solid reputation over the years, the Honeywell HPA060 falls short when it comes to actual air cleaning performance. With a CADR of just 61 CFM and a disappointing 74-minute cleaning time in our tests, this compact unit struggles to keep up with competitors like the Levoit Core 300 and Winix A231.
In our real-world testing, the Honeywell HPA060 took 74 minutes to bring PM1 levels down to zero, nearly double the time of similarly priced competitors. While it’s lightweight (just 6 lbs), easy to use, and sports that classic Honeywell design, the weak performance combined with costly 3-month pre-filter replacements makes it tough to recommend when better options exist at the same price point.
What You Need to Know About the Honeywell HPA060
Honeywell HPA060
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of performance data, here’s the quick rundown on what the Honeywell HPA060 brings to the table:
- Price: Check at Amazon
- Coverage Area: 75 sq ft (4.8 air changes per hour) or 360 sq ft (1 air change per hour)
- Noise Level: 42.1 dB (Low) to 54.5 dB (High)
- Filtration: True HEPA filter with activated carbon pre-filter
- Key Features: 3 fan speeds, filter check indicators, ENERGY STAR certified, lightweight (6 lbs), one-dial operation.
The Honeywell HPA060 targets common indoor pollutants like dust, pollen, pet dander, smoke, and odors. According to the manufacturer, the True HEPA filter captures up to 99.97% of microscopic airborne allergens down to 0.3 microns. But as we’ll see throughout this review, there’s a big gap between what the marketing says and how it actually performs in real-world conditions.
The Lowdown on the Honeywell HPA060
Our Take:
“A solid, basic small air purifier from Honeywell but likely too underpowered for most use cases. I recommend our readers to spend a little extra for a device with at least 140 CFM.”
With tons of Honeywell air purifiers to consider, you might not have time to read this full review. So here’s the condensed version of the main points from our performance testing:
What We Really Like
- Lightweight and portable at just over 6 lbs, making it easy to move between rooms and place on shelves or desks
- Simple one-dial operation means anyone can use it without reading a manual or downloading an app
- Compact size fits easily on desks, countertops, or small bedroom spaces without taking over the room
- Easy filter replacement process takes just a few minutes with no tools required
- ENERGY STAR certified for efficient electricity usage, keeping running costs low
What Could Be Better
- Seriously underpowered for effective air cleaning, taking 74 minutes to complete our particle removal test compared to 39 minutes with the Levoit Core 300S
- Pre-filters only last 3 months, adding up to costly replacements over time (around $40 per year just for pre-filters)
- No smart features like auto mode, air quality sensors, or app connectivity found on similarly priced competitors
- Narrow filter design limits surface area and restricts airflow compared to other Honeywell air purifiers
- Weak CADR rating of just 61 CFM makes it one of the slowest small air purifiers we’ve tested
What People Actually Care About in an Air Purifier
When shopping for Honeywell air purifiers or any small room air purifier, here’s what really matters:
- Room Coverage: The Honeywell HPA060 handles rooms up to 75 sq ft with 4.8 air changes per hour, or 360 sq ft with just 1 air change per hour. For context, most bedrooms are 120-200 sq ft, so this unit will struggle in typical spaces.
- CADR Ratings: With a pollen CADR of just 75 CFM and dust/smoke even lower at 61 CFM, the HPA060 is seriously underpowered compared to competitors. The Levoit Core 300 hits 145 CFM and the Winix A231 reaches 149 CFM for reference.
- Filter Quality: While the True HEPA filter is legit and captures 99.97% of particles down to 0.3 microns, the narrow design limits its effectiveness. The activated carbon pre-filter is disappointingly thin with minimal odor-fighting capability.
- Noise Levels: At 42.1 dB on low and 54.5 dB on high, it’s not the quietest but won’t keep you awake either. For comparison, that’s similar to a quiet library on low speed and normal conversation on high.
- Energy Efficiency: With ENERGY STAR certification and power draw of just 11.4 watts (low) to 21.2 watts (high), electricity costs are minimal at around $32 per year running 24/7.
- Filter Costs: This is where things get expensive. Pre-filters need replacing every 3 months at nearly $10 each, plus the HEPA filter yearly at $25.99. That’s roughly $66 per year in filter costs, or you can save money with generic options.
- Design and Portability: The 6 lb weight and built-in handle make it super easy to move around. The classic Honeywell black oval design won’t win any style awards but it’s functional.
The Specs That Matter
Honeywell HPA060
- Compact footprint fits in tight spaces like dorm rooms, small apartments, or on kitchen countertops.
- True HEPA filtration does capture 99.97% of particles down to 0.3 microns.
Check on Amazon
Here’s a breakdown of the Honeywell HPA060 specifications compared to its main competitors:
| Specification | Honeywell HPA060 | Levoit Core 300 | Winix A231 |
|---|---|---|---|
| CADR (Pollen) | 75 CFM | 145 CFM | 149 CFM |
| CADR (Dust) | 61 CFM | 140 CFM | 140 CFM |
| Coverage Area | 75 sq ft (4.8 ACH) | 219 sq ft (4.8 ACH) | 200 sq ft (5 ACH) |
| Noise Level | 42.1-54.5 dB | 24-50 dB | 27.8-53 dB |
| Weight | 6 lbs | 7.5 lbs | 11 lbs |
| Filter Life | 12 months (HEPA) | 6-8 months | 12 months |
| Pre-filter Life | 3 months | Washable | Washable |
| Price | ~$100 | ~$100 | ~$110 |
As you can see from the comparison, the Honeywell HPA060 lags behind in the most important metric: CADR ratings. While it’s slightly lighter than competitors, that doesn’t make up for the weak air cleaning performance.
It Looks Like a Honeywell Air Purifier
The Honeywell HPA060 sticks to the brand’s traditional design language, and honestly, that’s not a bad thing if you value function over form.
If you’re hunting for a stylish air purifier to match your modern minimalist aesthetic, Honeywell air purifiers probably aren’t your first choice. They stick to their classic black, oval-like design with no-frills functionality. But that simplicity means there’s less to break and the controls are dead simple to figure out.
The HPA060 is basically a smaller version of the popular Honeywell HPA300, made of black plastic with grill-like lines wrapping around the body. There’s a handle on the back so you can easily grab it and move from room to room, which is clutch given its lightweight 6 lb build.
The controls sit on top of the unit with the fan speed built into a dial instead of buttons. You get three speeds to pick from: low, medium, and high. There are also two filter check indicator lights, one for the main HEPA filter and one for the pre-filter, so you know exactly when replacements are due.
The Honeywell HPA060 is clearly designed for people who don’t need smart features like auto mode, air quality sensors, or app connectivity. The basic functionality means it’s super easy to use and honestly, not much can go wrong with a simple dial control.
When you put the HPA060 next to similar-sized units like the Levoit Core 300, Winix A231, and Coway Airmega 150, it’s got a different vibe with its black color and oval shape. It also doesn’t hog much space, which is a big plus when you’re working with a small bedroom or office.
One thing that bugs me about the design: the air inlet is positioned on a narrow section of the back instead of using more of the side area like the HPA300 does. This design choice limits airflow and is probably one reason the performance is so weak compared to other Honeywell air purifiers.
Narrow Filters That Hold It Back
The filtration system in the Honeywell HPA060 is a mixed bag. You get legitimate True HEPA filtration, but the execution leaves a lot to be desired.
Because the air inlet is narrow, the filters have to match that narrow design. Inside you’ll find a True HEPA filter that’s technically capable of removing microscopic particles down to 0.3 microns. But Honeywell shot itself in the foot by making it so narrow with minimal surface area compared to cylindrical designs.
The HEPA filter itself is sturdy and well-built with a plastic shell to keep it rigid. Honeywell says it’ll last around 12 months before needing replacement, which is actually a plus since many competitors require changes every 6-8 months. At $25.99 for a replacement, that’s not terrible either.
But here’s where things go downhill: the pre-filter/activated carbon combo is honestly disappointing. It’s basically a wafer-thin sheet that claims to capture large particles like dust, lint, pet fur, and reduce VOCs and odors. The reality? There’s just not enough activated carbon embedded in this filter to actually tackle smells and VOCs effectively.
You can literally see holes when you hold the pre-filter up to light, and it only lasts 3 months before needing replacement. That’s an extra cost that could’ve been avoided with a washable pre-filter like you get on the Levoit Core 300 or Winix A231. At nearly $10 per pre-filter and needing four per year, that’s an additional $40 annually just for the pre-filter.
Filter Replacement Process
When the time comes to swap filters, at least Honeywell made it simple:
- Switch off the unit and unplug it
- Remove the back panel
- The pre-filter sits on the inside of the back panel, just pull it off and snap a new one on
- Pull the HEPA filter straight out and slide in the replacement
- Click the back panel back into place
The whole process takes maybe 3-4 minutes with no tools required. The filter check indicators on top will light up when it’s time for a change, so you don’t have to guess or keep track manually.
Important tip: When you first get the Honeywell HPA060, the HEPA filter will be wrapped in plastic inside the unit. Make sure you remove all the plastic packaging or the filter won’t work at all and you’ll just be running a fan that does nothing.
Performance Testing: The Numbers Don't Lie
We don’t just trust what manufacturers tell us. We test every air purifier in our home lab under identical conditions so we can compare apples to apples and give you real data.
For the Honeywell HPA060, we measured how long it took to remove incense smoke from our test room using a PurpleAir indoor sensor. This gives us real-time updates on PM1.0, PM2.5, and PM10.0 particles in the air.
The Results: 74 Minutes to Clear the Room
The Honeywell HPA060 took 74 minutes (that’s 1 hour and 15 minutes) to bring PM1 levels down to zero in our test room. That’s honestly disappointing for any air purifier, but especially for one from a trusted brand like Honeywell.
| Air Purifier Model | Time to PM1 Zero | CADR Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Honeywell HPA060 | 74 minutes | 61 CFM | ~$100 |
| Levoit Core 300 | 40 minutes | 145 CFM | ~$100 |
| Winix A231 | 36 minutes | 149 CFM | ~$110 |
| Coway Airmega 150 | 45 minutes | 105 CFM | ~$120 |
As you can see, the HPA060 takes nearly double the time of its main competitors to clean the same amount of air. The combo of a weak fan and that narrow HEPA filter just doesn’t cut it, even for a small air purifier.
To put this in perspective, if you’re trying to clear smoke from cooking or get rid of allergens quickly, you’ll be waiting over an hour with the Honeywell HPA060 versus 36-40 minutes with a Levoit or Winix unit at the same price.
Airflow Testing Results
More powerful fans mean faster and more effective air cleaning, plain and simple. That’s why we used a Testo 410i Anemometer to measure airflow directly from the outlet at each fan speed.
| Fan Speed | Airflow (m/s) |
|---|---|
| Low | 2.5 m/s |
| Medium | 3.23 m/s |
| High | 3.88 m/s |
These numbers confirm what the particle removal test showed: the fan in the Honeywell HPA060 just isn’t pushing enough air to clean effectively. Compare this to the Levoit Core 300 which pushes air at over 5 m/s on high speed, and you can see why the performance gap is so huge.
Noise Levels: Decent But Not the Quietest
Air purifiers make noise, that’s just reality. But some are way louder than others, and that can be the difference between running it 24/7 or having to shut it off at night because you can’t sleep.
For a smaller air purifier, the Honeywell HPA060 sits in the middle of the pack for noise. It won’t make your room shake like you’re at a rock concert, but it’s not whisper-quiet either.
| Fan Speed | Noise Level | What It Sounds Like |
|---|---|---|
| Low | 42.1 dB | Quiet library |
| Medium | 48.3 dB | Soft conversation |
| High | 54.5 dB | Normal talking volume |
At 42.1 dB on low speed, it’s noticeable but not annoying. Most people can sleep through that level of white noise, and some folks actually prefer it. At 54.5 dB on high, you’ll definitely hear it, but it’s not loud enough to drown out the TV or make conversation difficult.
For comparison, the Levoit Core 300 gets down to 24 dB on sleep mode (nearly silent), while the Winix A231 runs at 27.8 dB on low. So if super quiet operation is a priority, there are better options among Honeywell air purifiers’ competitors.
Sound is pretty subjective though. What bugs one person might not bother another at all. That’s why checking video reviews showing actual noise levels can help you decide if it’ll work for your situation.
Running Costs: Cheap to Run, Expensive Filters
The sticker price is just the beginning. The real cost of owning an air purifier comes down to electricity usage and filter replacements over time. Let’s break down what you’ll actually spend with the Honeywell HPA060.
Electricity Costs: $32.35 Per Year
One area where the Honeywell HPA060 actually shines is energy efficiency. Thanks to its ENERGY STAR certification and small size, it barely sips electricity.
Using a power meter during testing, we measured the HPA060 pulling:
- 11.4 watts on low speed
- 21.2 watts on high speed
Running 24/7 at high speed would cost you just $32.35 per year based on the national average electricity rate. That’s incredibly cheap, and if you mostly run it on low or medium, you’ll spend even less.
| Operating Mode | Power Draw | Annual Cost (24/7) |
|---|---|---|
| Low Speed | 11.4 watts | ~$17 |
| High Speed | 21.2 watts | ~$32 |
Filter Costs: $65.99 Per Year (Ouch)
Here’s where the Honeywell HPA060 gets expensive. You need to replace filters regularly, and those costs add up fast:
- HEPA Filter: Needs replacing every 12 months at $25.99
- Pre-Filter: Needs replacing every 3 months at $9.18 (that’s $36.72 per year for four filters)
- Total filter costs: About $66 per year if you buy genuine Honeywell filters
Add in electricity and you’re looking at roughly $98 per year to run the HPA060, which honestly isn’t terrible. But here’s the thing: those 3-month pre-filter replacements are annoying to keep track of and could’ve been avoided with a washable design.
Money-Saving Option: Generic Filters
The good news is you can save money by buying generic third-party filters. You can grab a 4-pack combo of HEPA filters and pre-filters for around $40, which would give you filters for roughly 1-2 years depending on your replacement schedule.
We haven’t tested these generic filters personally, so we can’t vouch for their performance compared to genuine Honeywell filters. But if you’re on a tight budget, they’re worth considering. Just know that Honeywell says “compatible doesn’t mean comparable” in their marketing, which is their way of saying performance might suffer.
Who Should Buy the Honeywell HPA060?
After all this testing and analysis, here’s who the Honeywell HPA060 actually makes sense for:
Reasons to Buy
- Super lightweight at 6 lbs makes it easy to move between rooms or place on shelves and desks without worrying about weight.
- Dead simple one-dial operation perfect for people who don’t want to mess with apps, sensors, or complicated controls.
- Compact footprint fits in tight spaces like dorm rooms, small apartments, or on kitchen countertops.
- True HEPA filtration does capture 99.97% of particles down to 0.3 microns, so the filter tech is legit even if performance is weak.
- ENERGY STAR certified keeps electricity costs super low at around $32 per year running 24/7.
- Easy filter replacement takes just a few minutes with no tools required.
- Trusted Honeywell brand name (even though it’s actually made by Kaz USA under license).
- 12-month HEPA filter life is longer than many competitors that need changes every 6-8 months.
- Filter check indicators take the guesswork out of knowing when to replace filters.
- Available generic filters let you cut costs if you don’t mind potentially lower performance.
The Bottom Line on This Air Purifier
Look, I’ll be straight with you: if you’re shopping for a small but effective air purifier, there are better options than the Honeywell HPA060.
With so many solid small Honeywell air purifiers and competitor models on the market, the HPA060 just doesn’t hit the mark. Yeah, it’s lightweight and easy to use, and the simple one-dial control is nice. The black design looks different from the usual white box aesthetic. But when it comes to actually cleaning your air, the performance just isn’t there.
With a CADR of just 75 CFM for pollen (and even lower 61 CFM for dust/smoke), the Honeywell HPA060 can’t keep up with the Levoit Core 300 (145 CFM) or the Winix A231 (149 CFM). That’s nearly half the air cleaning power at the same price point.
The 74-minute particle removal time in our tests versus 36-40 minutes for competitors tells the whole story. If you need clean air fast, whether from cooking smoke, pet dander, or seasonal allergies, this unit will leave you waiting way too long.
Add in the costly 3-month pre-filter replacements at $10 a pop, and the value proposition gets even weaker. Yeah, the electricity costs are low thanks to ENERGY STAR certification, but those frequent filter changes add up to roughly $66 per year, which is more than many competitors.
Better Alternatives to Consider
If you’re shopping for Honeywell air purifiers specifically, consider stepping up to a more powerful model. The Honeywell HPA100 or HPA200 series offer better CADR ratings while still keeping that simple Honeywell design and operation you might prefer.
If you’re open to other brands, the Levoit Core 300 is our top pick in this size and price range. It cleans air nearly twice as fast, has a washable pre-filter (saving you $40 per year), and includes a sleep mode that runs nearly silent. At the same ~$100 price point, it’s just a better value.
The Winix A231 is another solid alternative with similar performance to the Levoit, plus it includes an auto mode and washable pre-filter. It’s a few bucks more but worth it for the added convenience.
For very small spaces like a dorm room desk or bathroom, the Honeywell HPA060 might be acceptable if you find it on sale. But for a typical bedroom or living space, you’ll want something with at least 140 CFM CADR to actually feel a difference in air quality.
Honeywell HPA060 Review: Final Verdict
The Honeywell HPA060 is a basic, no-frills air purifier that works as advertised but simply lacks the power to effectively clean air in real-world situations. With a CADR of just 61-75 CFM and 74-minute cleaning time in our tests, it falls significantly behind competitors at the same price point.
While the True HEPA filtration, ENERGY STAR certification, and simple one-dial operation are nice, they can’t make up for weak performance and costly 3-month pre-filter replacements. The Honeywell name carries weight, but this particular model from Kaz USA under license doesn’t live up to the brand’s reputation for powerful air cleaning.
For anyone shopping for Honeywell air purifiers or small room air purifiers in general, we recommend spending a few extra dollars for a unit with at least 140 CFM CADR. The difference in cleaning speed and effectiveness is dramatic, and you’ll actually notice improved air quality instead of just hoping it’s working.
If you’re set on Honeywell air purifiers, look at the HPA100 or HPA200 series instead. If you’re open to other brands, the Levoit Core 300 or Winix A231 offer nearly double the performance at the same price, making them much better values for most people.
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