Alen BreatheSmart Classic vs 75i

In this Alen BreatheSmart Classic vs 75i 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 BreatheSmart Classic, or go with the flagship model BreatheSmart 75i instead?

This side-by-side comparison will help you find out.

Comparison: Alen BreatheSmart Classic vs 75i – What are the Differences?

Coverage Area

Alen recommends the BreatheSmart Classic for rooms with a surface area of up to 1100 ft² (102 m²). The 75i is suitable for up to 1300 ft² (121 m²), the highest among all Alen air purifiers. In both cases, the numbers were based on an assumed two air changes per hour (ACH).

Clean Air Delivery Rate

Each using a True HEPA 13 filter, the BreatheSmart Classic and 75i remove 99.9% of particles greater than 0.1 microns. It is possible to pick a filter configuration depending on your needs, for example, one especially effective against pet odours or one against smoke.

The Classic model goes through 290 cubic feet per minute (CFM) and has a Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) of 300 m³/h. Meanwhile, the 75i has a throughput of 350 CFM and a CADR of 347 m³/h, which once again represent the highest values across the brand’s product line-up.

Working Noise

When running at full speed, the BreatheSmart Classic operates at 56 decibels (dB) compared to 49 dB for the 75i. The difference becomes even more significant on the lowest setting with the 75i producing just 25 dB of noise as opposed to 42 dB for the Classic model.

In total, there are four different speeds to choose from with the Classic and five with the 75i. Both can be set to automatic mode, in which they will only run as fast and therefore as loud as needed. As soon as pollution levels decrease again, the fan speed will decrease accordingly.

Sensors & Display

Laser sensors provide the BreatheSmart Classic and 75i 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 75i also keeps track of temperature and humidity.

It allows you to view this information as well as the air quality history through an app on your smartphone (see below), something that is not possible with the Classic. LED colour rings on the display of both devices make it easy to check the current air quality at a quick glance.

Connectivity & Compatibility

Using a Wi-Fi connection, the BreatheSmart 75i can be connected to the Alen Air app on your smartphone. Unfortunately, integrating it with a smart voice assistant is not possible. The Classic model, on the other hand, does not have any connectivity capabilities.

Weight & Dimensions

In the final round of this Alen BreatheSmart Classic vs 75i comparison, we will have a quick look at the weight and dimensions of the two devices. Being more powerful and having more features, the 75i is both larger and heavier than its competitor.

Conclusion: Alen BreatheSmart Classic vs 75i – Which is the Better Air Purifier?

Being the brand’s flagship model, the Alen BreatheSmart 75i unsurprisingly had the upper hand in all but one of the categories of this side-by-side comparison. It is the most powerful and most advanced of all Alen air purifiers, all the while operating both quiet and economical.

However, quality does have its price. If the lower coverage area and CADR of the Alen BreatheSmart Classic are enough to cover your needs, and you have no plans of monitoring and controlling your air purifier remotely, it is a powerful alternative that sells at a lower price.