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Honeywell HPA5100B HEPA Air Purifier vs NuWave 47402 Air Purifier for Medium to Large Rooms (2026)

Updated October 30, 2026 · Based on published specs and aggregated owner reviews

Honeywell HPA5100B HEPA Air Purifier for Medium Rooms Honeywell HPA5100B HEPA Air Purifier
NuWave 47402 Air Purifier for Large Rooms NuWave 47402 Air Purifier
Our pick: Honeywell HPA5100B HEPA Air Purifier

The Honeywell HPA5100B wins due to a higher rating (4.6 vs 4.5), nearly four times more reviews (1,967 vs 506), and a higher score (88 vs 86). It also offers a True HEPA filter and a dimmable display with an auto-off timer.

If you are shopping for an air purifier for a medium to large room, two solid options are the Honeywell HPA5100B and the NuWave 47402. Both have strong ratings, but they differ in coverage, noise, and features. Here is a fact-based comparison to help you decide.

Detailed Specs Comparison

Spec Honeywell HPA5100B HEPA Air PurifierNuWave 47402 Air Purifier
Price & where to buy

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As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated.

Room coverage 938 sq ft1,361 sq ft
Filtration True HEPANot listed
Noise (quietest setting) Not listed18 dB
Dimensions 13.9 x 9.2 x 15 inches; 10.1 pounds8.62 x 8.62 x 12.75 inches; 4.88 pounds

Where Each Excels

Honeywell HPA5100B HEPA Air Purifier

Our pick

Strengths

  • Rated coverage of 938 sq ft
  • True HEPA filtration
  • Clear InSight display with four cleaning levels and a dimmer
  • Auto-off timer with 2, 4, and 8-hour settings
  • 80% of reviews are 5-star

Trade-offs

  • Can be loud on highest Turbo setting
  • Larger physical size compared to some competitors
  • Requires annual HEPA filter and quarterly pre-filter replacements

NuWave 47402 Air Purifier

Strengths

  • Rated coverage of 1,361 sq ft
  • Listed noise level of 18 dB on quietest setting
  • Compact dimensions: 8.62 x 8.62 x 12.75 inches
  • Lighter weight: 4.88 pounds
  • 75% of reviews are 5-star

Trade-offs

  • Model-specific filter replacements may be required
  • Lacks detailed feature descriptions for advanced modes
  • Fewer total reviews (506 vs 1,967)

Which One Is Right for You?

Choose Honeywell HPA5100B HEPA Air Purifier if…

you want a True HEPA filter and prefer a model with a dimmable display and an auto-off timer. The Honeywell HPA5100B has a higher average rating (4.6) and a higher score (88) than the NuWave 47402. It also has nearly four times the number of customer reviews, indicating broader user experience. Its rated coverage of 938 sq ft is suitable for medium to large rooms, and it includes four cleaning levels.

Choose NuWave 47402 Air Purifier if…

you need to cover a larger space, as the NuWave 47402 is rated for 1,361 sq ft. It is also quieter on its lowest setting, listed at 18 dB, and has a more compact, lighter design. At $112.42, it costs less than the Honeywell HPA5100B. If noise and footprint are your main concerns, and you do not need a display or timer, the NuWave is a strong alternative.

Our Verdict

Honeywell HPA5100B HEPA Air Purifier

Based on the data, the Honeywell HPA5100B is the winner. It has a higher rating (4.6 vs 4.5), a higher score (88 vs 86), and significantly more customer reviews (1,967 vs 506), which suggests a more reliable track record. While the NuWave 47402 offers a larger rated coverage area and quieter operation, the Honeywell provides a True HEPA filter, a dimmable display, and an auto-off timer. The Honeywell also has a higher percentage of 5-star reviews (80% vs 75%). For most buyers, the combination of filtration type, features, and user feedback makes the Honeywell HPA5100B the better choice, despite its higher price and larger size. The NuWave remains a good option for those prioritizing coverage area and low noise.

Check Honeywell HPA5100B HEPA Air Purifier Price

Full reviews: HoneywellPluggedIn HPA5100B Review: Reliable HEPA for Medium-Large Rooms · NuWave 18dB Review: Whisper-Quiet Power for Large Rooms

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of filter does the Honeywell HPA5100B use?

The Honeywell HPA5100B uses a True HEPA filter, as listed in its specifications. This type of filter is designed to capture common allergens like dust and pet dander.

How quiet is the NuWave 47402?

The NuWave 47402 is listed at a noise level of 18 dB on its quietest setting. This is exceptionally low and suitable for bedrooms or quiet spaces.

Which purifier covers a larger area?

The NuWave 47402 is rated for 1,361 sq ft, while the Honeywell HPA5100B is rated for 938 sq ft. The NuWave covers a larger rated area.

Does the Honeywell HPA5100B have a timer?

Yes, the Honeywell HPA5100B includes an auto-off timer with settings for 2, 4, and 8 hours, as noted in its pros.

How many reviews does each product have?

The Honeywell HPA5100B has 1,967 reviews, and the NuWave 47402 has 506 reviews. Both are based on Amazon data.

What is the price difference between the two?

The Honeywell HPA5100B is priced at $129.99, and the NuWave 47402 is priced at $112.42. The NuWave costs less.

As an Amazon Associate we may earn from qualifying purchases. No paid placements; scores come from specs and owner ratings.