In this Alen BreatheSmart 45i vs FIT50 review, we will compare two of the most popular devices by the Austin, Texas-based company known for its high quality air purifiers.
Both models can be personalized not only in terms of filter capabilities, but also when it comes to the colour of the front panel. Both are backed by an unlimited warranty. So should you opt for the connected BreatheSmart 45i, or go with the BreatheSmart FIT50 instead?
This side-by-side comparison will help you find out.
Alen BreatheSmart 45i
Alen BreatheSmart FIT50
Coverage Area
Up to 800 ft²
Up to 900 ft²
CADR (Particles)
245 m³/h
220 m³/h
Power Consumption
1.1 – 50 Watts
1.2 – 60 Watts
Working Noise
23 – 49 dB(A)
32 – 49 dB(A)
PM 2.5 Sensor
Yes
Yes
Comparison: Alen BreatheSmart 45i vs FIT50 – What are the Differences?
Coverage Area
The Alen BreatheSmart 45i purifies the air in rooms with a surface area of up to 800 ft² (74 m²), while the FIT50 is suitable for even larger rooms of up to 900 ft² (84 m²). In both cases, the numbers were based on an assumed two air changes per hour (ACH).
Winner: BreatheSmart FIT50
Up to 800 ft²
Up to 900 ft²
Clean Air Delivery Rate
Using a True HEPA 13 filter, the BreatheSmart 45i and FIT50 capture 99.9% of particles greater than 0.1 microns. Both models are available with different filter configurations, allowing you to pick one especially effective against pet odours or one against smoke, for example.
The 45i has a throughput of 215 cubic feet per minute (CFM), resulting in a Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) of 245 m³/h. While the FIT50 goes through a maximum of 231 CFM, it surprisingly comes with a lower CADR than its competitor.
Winner: BreatheSmart 45i
245 m³/h
220 m³/h
Working Noise
Running at full speed, both models operate at around 49 decibels (dB). On the lowest of the four speed settings, however, the BreatheSmart 45i has a significant advantage over the FIT50, making it the better choice for everyone looking for a quiet air purifier for their bedroom.
Both models can be set to automatic mode, in which they will only run as fast and therefore as loud as needed to maintain healthy air quality. As soon as pollution levels start to drop after a sudden spike, the fan speed and with it the noise level will decrease accordingly.
Winner: BreatheSmart 45i
23 – 49 dB(A)
32 – 49 dB(A)
Sensors & Display
Laser sensors provide the BreatheSmart 45i and FIT50 with the current amount of airborne particles inside the room. Changes are detected almost in real-time and can be used as input for the automatic mode (see above). The 45i also keeps track of temperature and humidity.
It also allows you to view this information as well as the air quality history via an app on your smartphone (see below), something that is not possible with the FIT50. LED colour rings on the display of both devices make it easy to check the current air quality at a quick glance.
Winner: Draw
Yes / LED
Yes / LED
Connectivity & Compatibility
Using a Wi-Fi connection, you can monitor and control the BreatheSmart 45i remotely using the Alen Air app on your smartphone. However, it can not be integrated with a smart voice assistant. The FIT50 model is not equipped with any connectivity capabilities.
Winner: BreatheSmart 45i
Yes
No
Weight & Dimensions
In the final round of this Alen BreatheSmart 45i vs FIT50 comparison, we will have a quick look at the weight and dimensions of the two devices. Although the difference is rather small, the 45i takes up less space and also weighs less than the FIT50.
Winner: BreatheSmart 45i
25 x 15 x 8.5 in, 15 lbs
22.25 x 16.75 x 10 in, 16 lbs
Conclusion: Alen BreatheSmart 45i vs FIT50 – Which is the Better Air Purifier?
Except for the slightly smaller coverage area, the Alen BreatheSmart 45i came out on top in almost every category of this comparison. The significantly lower noise level in sleep mode, along with the more advanced features, make it the better choice for most users.
If you need the additional coverage area and have no plans to monitor and control your air purifier remotely, however, the Alen BreatheSmart FIT50 might be the right fit for you. With the largest filter to unit ratio of all Alen air purifiers, it is ideal for small apartments and studios.
Alen BreatheSmart 45i
Alen BreatheSmart FIT50
Looking for an even more powerful smart air purifier? Find out how the 45i performs against its successor in our comparison Alen BreatheSmart 45i vs 75i. For a non-connected alternative, read our comparison Alen BreatheSmart FIT50 vs Classic.