Our Verdict
Nuwave Forever Smart Air Purifier Wins

At $499.99, it offers superior long-term value with its washable, reusable filters, eliminating recurring costs, alongside a marginally higher CADR smoke rating of 266.933 and effective coverage of 417.0833 sq ft. The Alen BreatheSmart 45i, priced at $479.0, is the better pick for those prioritizing dedicated odor neutralization with its HEPA Odor Filter and ultra-quiet operation, especially if willing to manage periodic filter replacements.
Bottom Line: Nuwave Forever Smart Air Purifier is the better choice. At $499.
In-Depth Analysis
How they compare in practice
When comparing the Alen BreatheSmart 45i and the Nuwave Forever Smart Air Purifier, the core performance metrics reveal a slight edge for Nuwave. The Nuwave boasts a CADR smoke rating of 266.933, marginally higher than the Alen's 253.33. This translates to the Nuwave purifying air slightly faster for smoke particles. Similarly, Nuwave's effective coverage at 5 ACH is 417.0833 sq ft, surpassing Alen's 395.83 sq ft. While both are effective for large rooms, Nuwave might clear the air a bit quicker in comparable spaces. Alen differentiates itself with a specialized HEPA Odor Filter, making it particularly adept at neutralizing strong household smells, whereas Nuwave offers a broader 7-stage filtration system that also lowers ozone levels to 1 ppb.
The most significant differentiator and long-term value proposition lies in the filter system. The Nuwave Forever Smart lives up to its name with washable and reusable filters, meaning a filter cost yearly of $0. This is a substantial financial advantage over the Alen BreatheSmart 45i, which requires periodic replacement of its medical-grade HEPA Odor Filter, adding to the total cost of ownership over time. For a consumer planning to use an air purifier for many years, the Nuwave offers considerable savings, offsetting its slightly higher initial price of $499.99 compared to Alen's $479.0.
In terms of smart features and user convenience, both units include SmartSensors that automatically adjust fan speed based on air quality. However, Nuwave extends its smart capabilities with Wi-Fi connectivity, enabling remote control and monitoring via a smartphone app. The Alen 45i lacks this feature, focusing instead on in-room sensory adjustments and offering a 'pink noise' function designed to aid sleep. Nuwave also features an adjustable flow panel, providing more manual control over airflow direction.
Ultimately, the choice between these two powerful purifiers comes down to specific needs. Alen excels in creating a quiet, odor-free sanctuary, perfect for bedrooms or noise-sensitive environments, even with the ongoing cost of filters. Nuwave, conversely, provides a comprehensive, cost-effective purification solution with modern smart home integration, ideal for those who value long-term savings and remote convenience, sacrificing Alen's specialized odor filter for broader, maintenance-free air cleaning.
Key Differences
The most significant spec differences at a glance
Cadr Smoke
5% lessCoverage Sq Ft
5% lessAdvantages
Where each product wins
Nuwave
- Cadr Smoke: 5% higher (253.33 vs 266.933)
- Coverage Sq Ft: 5% higher (395.83 vs 417.0833)
Which to Pick for Your Situation
Concrete scenarios with a clear recommendation
For a buyer prioritizing long-term value and low maintenance
NuwaveThe Nuwave Forever Smart features washable, reusable filters, eliminating recurring filter replacement costs over its lifespan.
For households with pets or cooking odors
AlenThe Alen BreatheSmart 45i's dedicated HEPA Odor Filter is specifically designed to neutralize strong household odors effectively.
For integrating with a smart home system
NuwaveThe Nuwave Forever Smart is Wi-Fi enabled, allowing for convenient remote control and monitoring via a smartphone app.
For a bedroom or nursery where quiet operation is paramount
AlenThe Alen BreatheSmart 45i is known for its ultra-quiet operation, aiding sleep, and offers a pink noise feature.
Who Should Buy Which?
Find the right product for your needs
Buy Alen if...
Alen Air Purifier BreatheSmart
The Alen Alen Air Purifier BreatheSmart 45i is the ideal choice for individuals and families who prioritize a peaceful, odor-free home environment, particularly in sensitive areas like bedrooms, nurseries, or home offices where noise is a critical concern. Buyers opting for Alen value its ultra-quiet operation, which includes a unique pink noise feature designed to promote better sleep and concentration. They are specifically seeking effective neutralization of strong household odors from sources like pets, cooking, or smoke, a task for which the Alen BreatheSmart 45i's specialized HEPA Odor Filter is expertly engineered. This buyer understands that the medical-grade filter, capable of capturing 0.1 micron particles, requires periodic replacement, accepting this ongoing cost for superior, targeted filtration. They might not require Wi-Fi connectivity, preferring a straightforward, highly effective local control experience. At $479.0, they are investing in premium air quality and quiet performance, valuing the immediate and specific benefits over the long-term filter cost savings that come with reusable filter systems.
Buy Nuwave if...
Nuwave Forever Smart Air
The Nuwave Forever Smart Air Purifier for Home is perfectly suited for budget-conscious homeowners and tech-savvy individuals who seek comprehensive air purification with minimal long-term maintenance costs. The primary draw for this buyer is the innovative washable and reusable filters, resulting in a filter cost yearly of $0. This translates into significant savings over the product's lifespan, a major factor for those planning extended use. This buyer also appreciates the Nuwave's slightly higher CADR smoke rating of 266.933 and effective coverage of 417.0833 sq ft, ensuring robust air cleaning capabilities. Furthermore, the Wi-Fi enabled feature for remote control and monitoring through a smartphone app is a significant advantage for those who want to integrate their appliances into a smart home ecosystem. They value not just thorough particle capture down to 0.1 microns, but also the active reduction of ozone levels to 1 ppb, contributing to overall air health. While the initial price of $499.99 is slightly higher, the long-term economic and convenience benefits make it an attractive choice for those prioritizing a comprehensive, maintenance-free, and smart-controlled purification system, foregoing Alen's dedicated odor filter for broader, sustainable air quality.
Spec Comparison
7 specs compared
| Specification | ![]() | ![]() |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $479 | $500 |
| Rating | 4.7(754) | 4.6(497) |
| Cadr Smoke | 253.33 | 266.93 |
| Coverage Sq Ft | 395.83 | 417.08 |
| Filter Type | HEPA Odor Filter | — |
| Smart Sensor | Yes | Yes |
| Energy Star | — | Yes |
| WiFi | — | Yes |
| Filter Cost Yearly | — | Free |
Swipe horizontally to see all columns
Pros & Cons
Quick overview of strengths and weaknesses
Alen Air Purifier
- Neutralizes strong household odors
- Medical-grade filter captures 0.1 micron particles
- SmartSensor auto-adjusts fan speed
- High CADR smoke rating (253.33)
- Effective coverage (395 sq ft) less than advertised
- Pink noise feature may not be preferred by all users
- Requires periodic filter replacement
Nuwave Forever Smart
- Washable filters eliminate recurring purchase costs.
- Captures 100% of particles down to 0.1 microns.
- Lowers ozone levels to 1 ppb.
- CADR smoke rating of 266.933 for effective cleaning.
- Effective coverage (5 ACH) is 417 sq ft, not 2,002 sq ft.
- Ozone removal filters are not washable or reusable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this comparison
Do these air purifiers require filter replacements?
The Nuwave Forever Smart uses washable, reusable filters, costing $0 yearly. The Alen BreatheSmart 45i uses a HEPA Odor Filter that requires periodic replacement, adding to long-term costs.
Which unit covers a larger area more effectively?
The Nuwave Forever Smart covers slightly more effectively, rated for 417.0833 sq ft at 5 ACH, compared to the Alen BreatheSmart 45i's 395.83 sq ft coverage.
Can I control either air purifier remotely?
Yes, the Nuwave Forever Smart is Wi-Fi enabled, allowing remote control and monitoring via a smartphone app. The Alen BreatheSmart 45i features a SmartSensor but lacks Wi-Fi connectivity.
Which is better for eliminating strong odors?
The Alen BreatheSmart 45i is specifically designed with a HEPA Odor Filter to neutralize strong household odors like those from pets, cooking, and smoke effectively.
Is either product energy efficient?
Yes, the Nuwave Forever Smart is Energy Star certified, indicating it meets strict energy efficiency guidelines. The Alen 45i's energy efficiency is not explicitly stated as Energy Star.
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