Winix HR950 Review: Is WiFi really all that Important?
Winix HR950 Specification
Product | Winix HR950 |
Dimension | 16.3 x 23.6 x 9.6 in (41.4 x 59.9 x 24.4 cm) |
Weight | 18.7 lb (8.5 kg) |
Fanspeed | 4 |
Coverage (up to) | 400 sq. ft. (37 m2) |
Airflow speed | 56.5-286 cfm (96-486 m3/h) |
Dust free (CADR) | 264 cfm (449 m3/h) |
Pollen free (CADR) | 301 cfm (511 m3/h) |
Smoke free (CADR) | 258 cfm (438 m3/h) |
Filtration | 5-stage |
Pre-Filter - Lifespan - Replacement cost ($) | Pre-filter Permanent |
HEPA filter - Lifespan - Replacement cost ($) | True-HEPA filter 1 year |
Carbon filter - Lifespan - Replacement cost ($) | Coated Deodorization (CD) Carbon Filter 1 year |
Ionizer/ Technologies | PlasmaWave Technology |
UV-light/ PCO | UV-C Light 20,000 hours |
Other filter | Anti-microbial coating |
All-in-one filter - Lifespan - Replacement cost ($) | Filter J 117130 Replacement Filter 1 year +- 99.99 |
Optional/ Addon | Winix Ultimate Pet Filter U replacement pack (12 pack) 12 months+- 19.99 |
Noise level | 26.4 - 60 dB |
Power usage level | 11 - 83 W |
Timer/ Scheduler | 1, 4, 8 hours |
Sensors | Particle, VOC Sensors (Air quality) |
Auto mode | |
Air qualityAQ indicator | |
Filter change indicator | |
More color options | |
Wi-Fi/ BTBluetooth | |
ENERGY STAR | |
Remote control | |
Child lock | |
Warranty | 2 years |
Email/ Phone support |
Key features
- Pet approved 5-stage with PlasmaWave™ Technology
- Washable pre-filter
- Coated Deodorization (CD) carbon filter
- Anti-microbial True HEPA filter
- 4 fan speed (Sleep, Low, Medium, High, Turbo) with Auto mode/ Sleep mode
- Particle + VOC sensors
- Child lock
- Built-in timer (1, 4, 8 hours)
- 2 years warranty
Pros
- 5-stage filtration with PlasmaWave™ Technology.
- Effective True HEPA filter coated with Anti-microbial protection.
- Coated Deodorization (CD) carbon filter that will remove most indoor smoke and odors.
- High CADR output supported with 4 speed plus Auto mode/ Sleep mode.
- Sensitive dual sensors (Particle, VOC) with color based air quality indicator.
- Child lock feature that prevents children from meddling on the setting.
- Built-in timer with 3 pre-set setting (1, 4, 8 hours).
- 2 years warranty.
Cons
- Online pricing is rather close to HR1000 that offers additional WiFi support.
- Filter replacement is on the high side and has to be done on a yearly basis.
- In sleep mode, the indicator light does not dim down enough to prevent a slight glare disturbance.
- A remote control would be nice as it is available in some of the lower end models.
The starters
Nothing but praises coming from our side. Winix HR950 is the latest air purifier that comes with a minimalist exterior. At 16.3 x 23.6 x 9.6 in/ 18.7 lb weight, it is not too bulky to move around the house thanks to the back carrying handle. Above the back handle, you will find a top air outlet while air inlet is located at the front. Continue with the front, there is an air quality indicator that will light in blue when air quality is good. Yellow when air quality fair, and red when is poor. Fitting is top-notch and well-assembled, expect zero off-gassing even on constant use.

Control panel is at the typical top spot where buttons are aligned for easy navigation. Starting from the left you have the Smart Sensor that detects nearby air quality. Below is the light sensor that measure ambient light and adjust the brightness level. Next is the Child Lock button that will activate/ deactivate the child Lock function. Mode button aka fan speed, will cycle between the 4 speed (Low, Medium, High, Turbo plus Auto, and Sleep mode). Smack right at the center, you have the Power button that does what it does. PlasmaWave button is as the name suggested, activate/ deactivate the PlasmaWave feature. Finally to the most right, Timer button will cycle between 1, 4, 8 hours and no timer. Press and hold for at least 3 seconds will activate/ deactivate the front Air Quality light.
Let’s quickly run through the features again. You have a 5-stage PlasmaWave filtration including Anti-microbial coating. 4 fan speed plus Auto/ Sleep mode. Smart/ Light sensor, air quality indicator, and Child lock. Finally, AHAM, Ozone-safe by CARB, UL listed, ENERGY STAR and 2 years warranty.
Airflow, speed, and CADR
What’s inside count
The main highlights of the bunch. Winix HR950 5-stage ultimate filtration is a godsend for pet owner. First and foremost, you have the pre-filter that great in trapping large pollutants. Secondly, the deodorization carbon filter would focus on odor and gases particles. Thirdly, the True HEPA filter would now focus on removing allergens down to 0.3-micron. Fourthly, the anti-microbial treatment on the HEPA filter prevents the growth of microbes. Lastly, Winix trademark PlasmaWave Technology would create Hydroxyl that neutralizes any nearby particles.Keep it down
At what cost
^ Replacement filters/ estimated cost
Winix HR950 VS the challengers

Winix HR1000
Not necessarily more expensive after online discount. Winix HR1000 on paper is identical in every way bar the Wi-Fi enabled feature. An excellent backup option even if you have no use of the Wi-Fi support.
Winix 5500-2
Despite coming from the same stable, 5500-2 is the cheaper but poorer spec version. You also lose out on CADR, airflow, and less filtration. What you still have is HEPA filter as standard and lower annual filter replacement cost.
Bionaire BAP756-U
Discontinued model, Bionaire BAP756-U has a cheaper price tag yet a better coverage. The downside is the poorer filtration system compare with Winix HR950.