Winix 5300 vs 5500: Which Air Purifier is Better? [2023]

The Winix 5300 and 5500 are both high-performance air purifiers from the well-known manufacturer, Winix. Both models are designed to remove a wide range of pollutants from the air in your home, including dust, allergens, pet dander, and smoke, among others.

However, there are some key differences between the two models that are worth considering when deciding which one to purchase. The Winix 5500 is the more advanced of the two, with several features not found on the 5300 model. It is also slightly more expensive.

In this comparison, we will take a look at the features and capabilities of each model, and discuss the pros and cons of each, so you can make an informed decision when choosing which one to buy.

Specs of Winix 5300 and 5500 Compared

  Winix 5300 Winix 5500
Size16.3 x 8.5 x 21.7 inches16.3 x 8.5 x 21.7 inches
Weight15lbs15lbs
ColourMetallic SilverMetallic Silver
FiltersTrue HEPA and activated carbon filterWashable True HEPA, activated carbon filter
Filter Capture99.97% as small as 0.3 microns99.97% as small as 0.3 microns
PlasmaWave TechnologyYesYes
Filtration Levels3-stage3-stage
Air Quality SensorYesYes
Controls4 fan speeds, sleep mode, auto mode4 fan speeds, sleep mode, auto mode
LED LightsChanges based on real-time air quality, filter replacement indicatorChanges based on real-time air quality, filter replacement indicator
Remote Control        YesNo
Room Size350sq ft350sq ft
Warranty2 years1 year

Winix 5300

winix 5300 compared with winix 5500
Source: Winix

The Winix 5300 is a high-performance air purifier from the well-known manufacturer, Winix. It is designed to remove a wide range of pollutants from the air in your home, including dust, allergens, pet dander, and smoke, among others.

The Winix 5300 uses a multi-stage filtration system that includes a washable pre-filter, an advanced odour control carbon filter, and a True HEPA filter that captures 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns.

The Winix 5300 has a room coverage of up to 360 sq. ft and it has a CADR (Clean Air Delivery Rate) rating of dust (243) smoke (232) pollen (246) which means it can clean the air effectively in a medium-sized room.

It features an air quality sensor that constantly monitors the air in the room and adjusts the fan speed accordingly. The 5300 also has a sleep mode and a filter replacement indicator. The unit has a sleek, modern design and it is easy to operate with electronic touch controls and remote control.

The Winix 5300 doesn’t have Wi-Fi connectivity or additional technologies such as Winix’s proprietary PlasmaWave technology.

It is a good option for those looking for a well-rounded air purifier that can handle basic needs but doesn’t require additional features. It is also a good option for those with a tighter budget as it’s less expensive than the Winix 5500.

Winix 5300 Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • People who have allergies can use it well.
  • It’s a little bit cheaper
  • The lower settings are quiet

Cons:

  • Some users have reported that the PlasmaWave technology makes an unpleasant sound.

Winix 5500

winix 5500
Source: Winix

The Winix 5550 air purifier is a solid choice for those looking to improve the air quality in their home or office. This air purifier is equipped with True HEPA and PlasmaWave technology, which effectively captures and neutralizes a wide range of pollutants, including allergens, dust, and odours.

It also features a washable pre-filter that helps to prolong the life of the HEPA filter. The unit is easy to use with an easy-to-read LED display and intuitive controls, you can easily adjust the settings to suit your needs.

Additionally, it has a PlasmaWave technology that neutralizes pollutants on a molecular level. In terms of noise level, this unit is relatively quiet, and it has an air quality sensor that adjusts the fan speed automatically. Overall, the Winix 5550 is a great option for those looking for a high-performance air purifier that is easy to use and maintain.

Winix 5500 Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • The filters’ outstanding dust collection
  • It is effective at eliminating various odours.
  • A superior filtration system

Cons:

It’s unfortunate that there isn’t a timer.

Difference Between Winix 5300 & Winix 5500

The Winix 5500 is rated to cover a larger area, up to 360 sq. ft, compared to the Winix 5300, which is rated to cover up to 360 sq. ft. Moreover, the Winix 5500 has higher CADR ratings for dust, smoke, and pollen than the Winix 5300.

Here are some other observable differences that we have noticed in both air purifier systems:

1. Filter System

When it comes to the filter system, the Winix 5500 appears to be superior because, in addition to its two other filters, it also contains a washable AOC carbon filter. Having more filters is a good thing, but having something washable is also a big plus.

Carbon filters are helpful since they might get rid of undesirable smells like the ones that cooking and smoking leave behind. The carbon filter of the 5500 is also washable, making maintenance less expensive than filter replacement.

2. Chemical Filtration

Chemical filtration describes how effective it is at removing offensive odours (often caused by mould) and musty aromas.

In this instance, we discovered that the Winix 5500 has superior chemical filtration due to the fact that its carbon filter is not only more potent but also washable. Since the Winix 5500 has more filters than the Winix 5300, it is obvious (which has a pre-filter).

3. Remote Control

Air purifiers are always easiest to operate with remote controls. In this instance, we discovered that the Winix 5300 has a superior remote control because some customers have complained that the 5500’s buttons can occasionally be a little malfunction.

However, it’s possible that this is merely a straightforward manufacturing mistake or flaw.

4. Warranty Period

When it comes to warranty length, the Winix 5300 wins out thanks to its 2-year warranty duration over the 5500’s 1-year warranty. Even though it’s not a major deal, you should know this in case your appliance breaks.

5. Budget Level

Since the Winix 5500 is an older model, we will merely mention that it seems to be a more affordable option than the Winix 5300 in terms of the price range.

What is PlasmaWave Technology in Air Purifiers?

Winix uses environmentally friendly PlasmaWave technology to purge the air of dangerous contaminants including VOCs.

The following are its primary advantages:

1. Reduces Musty Smells

It can lessen smoke, odours from cooking, and other things. This means that the fish odour that stays on your kitchen walls can be eliminated with air purifier technology.

Even the carbon filters that are inserted in the device along with the real HEPA filters use a different technique.

2. Keeps Mould at Bay

If you reside in a region with significant humidity, mould may be one of your biggest foes. Mould not only smells bad, but it can also make you and your family sick.

In addition to eliminating unpleasant smells, the PlasmaWave can keep them at bay and to a minimum.

3. Static Electricity is Reduced

This indicates that air contaminants are more likely to enter your air purifier’s filter and have a lower likelihood of remaining in the air.

How Exactly Does PlasmaWave Technology Work?

Here is a quick look:

  • In the beginning, an electrical discharge quickly spreads across the atmosphere. There is no cause for concern because neither people nor animals are harmed by this electrical discharge.
  • When hydrogen and oxygen ions combine to make Hydroxyls, the discharge then eliminates the hydrogen.
  • Last but not least, because hydrogen ions are used, the removal of hydrogen also makes it simple to remove air pollutants.

It also adds moisture back to the air, all through a straightforward chemical process.

Which Winix Air Purifier is the Best: Winix 5300 or 5500?

Even though the Winix 5500 is a little more expensive than its predecessor, the Winix 5300, if you ask us which air purifier to buy, we would suggest it.

The key factor is that, unlike the earlier one, its carbon filter is washable, which also implies that its chemical filtering is much superior.

It is much preferable to use a washable carbon filter in an air purifier to neutralize scents in houses with a lot of cooking odours, cigarette odours, and pets rolling around the house.

Please understand that while we both adore these two Winix air purifiers, one must be superior to the other.

After all, they both use PlasmaWave technology and genuine HEPA filters to effectively purify the air.

Does the Winix 5300 Produce Ozone?

The Winix 5300 does not emit harmful ozone, in contrast to other more traditional air purifiers on the market.

Its PlasmaWave technology air filtering system removes smoke, odour, and other chemical irritants in the air that are caused by VOCs (volatile organic compounds).

In earlier models of air purifiers, ozone has long been utilized as a filtration mechanism. Because they occasionally produce the greenhouse effect, they are not particularly good for the environment.

Therefore, more modern and sophisticated air purifiers today use cutting-edge technology instead of ozone to clean your air of harmful particles without harming the environment.

Are Winix Air Purifiers Good?

Yes! Consumers praise and give the majority of Winix air purifiers outstanding ratings due to the following specifications and features:

1. They use true HEPA filters

A true HEPA filter, which is a fine (detailed) filter, can remove up to 99.97% of air pollutants, including pollen, dust, dirt, mites and pet dander.

If you live somewhere with bad air quality, you might want to have an air purifier with this kind of filter so it can do the work for you.

2. They use PlasmaWave technology for odors

Because it doesn’t use ozone, this air purifier is more eco-friendly than others.

Unpleasant scents can be removed from the air with the aid of its PlasmaWave technology without damaging the environment or any living beings, including you, your kids, and pets!

3. Most of them have multi-stage cleaning methods

There may be at least three of these cleaning techniques in a filter pack, more or less.

The more cleaning steps you have, the better your unit will be in completely purging the air of contaminants.

The size of air pollutants varies; larger pollutants can be managed by physical filters or pre-filters, whilst smaller pollutants can be handled by finer filters, such as the real HEPA filter.

4. Many of them will have smart sensors

If you typically have a busy schedule, a smart sensor is a necessity.

It implies that you won’t have to rely on guessing to determine how dirty your air is because the sensors can determine if it’s good, somewhat polluted, or desperately requires cleaning.

5. Most are designed to fit the most typical bedroom

The majority of Winix air purifiers you can find are designed for rooms up to 360 square feet in size.

This is why Winix units are well-liked by the general public due to their ideal features and power.

Conclusion

There is no distinction in terms of design. The Winix 5300 and Winix 5500 are both good-sized and manageable in terms of weight while moving between rooms.

They also do a fantastic job of odour removal and air purification. The Winix 5500 is the winner today. Despite costing slightly more upfront, the washable filter allows for long-term cost savings.