In this Alen BreatheSmart FIT50 vs Classic 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 FIT50, or go with the BreatheSmart Classic instead?
This side-by-side comparison will help you find out.
Alen BreatheSmart FIT50
Alen BreatheSmart Classic
Coverage Area
Up to 900 ft²
Up to 1100 ft²
CADR (Particles)
220 m³/h
300 m³/h
Power Consumption
1.2 – 60 Watts
1.6 – 105 Watts
Working Noise
32 – 49 dB(A)
42 – 56 dB(A)
PM 2.5 Sensor
Yes
Yes
Comparison: Alen BreatheSmart FIT50 vs Classic – What are the Differences?
Coverage Area
Alen recommends the BreatheSmart FIT50 for rooms with a surface area of up to 900 ft² (84 m²). The even more powerful Classic model can deal with up to 1100 ft² (102 m²). In both cases, the numbers were based on an assumed two air changes per hour (ACH).
Winner: BreatheSmart Classic
Up to 900 ft²
Up to 1100 ft²
Clean Air Delivery Rate
Each equipped with a True HEPA 13 filter, the BreatheSmart FIT50 and Classic remove 99.9% of particles greater than 0.1 microns. Alen allows you to pick a filter configuration depending on your needs, for example, one especially effective against pet odours or one against smoke.
Around 231 cubic feet per minute (CFM) pass through the FIT50, giving it a Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) of 220 m³/h. The Classic, on the other hand, purifies 290 CFM and also comes with a significantly higher CADR of 300 m³/h.
Winner: BreatheSmart Classic
220 m³/h
300 m³/h
Working Noise
Running at full speed, the BreatheSmart FIT50 operates at around 49 decibels (dB) compared to 56 dB for its competitor. The difference becomes even larger on the lowest of the four speeds, where the FIT50 generates just 32 dB of noise as opposed to 42 dB for the Classic.
Both models support 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 decrease after a sudden spike, the fan speed and noise level will decrease accordingly.
Winner: BreatheSmart FIT50
32 – 49 dB(A)
42 – 56 dB(A)
Sensors & Display
Laser sensors provide the BreatheSmart FIT50 and Classic 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).
In both models, the control panel is situated on top of the device. Coloured LED rings let you know if harmful particles were detected, with purple (FIT50) and red (Classic) indicating dirty, orange (FIT50) and yellow (Classic) moderately dirty, and lastly blue indicating clean air.
Winner: Draw
Yes / LED
Yes / LED
Connectivity & Compatibility
Unfortunately, neither the BreatheSmart FIT50 nor the BreatheSmart Classic can be connected to your smartphone or voice assistant. If you would like to monitor and control your Alen air purifier remotely, consider the 45i or 75i models instead.
Winner: Draw
No
No
Weight & Dimensions
In the final round of this Alen BreatheSmart FIT50 vs Classic comparison, we will have a quick look at the weight and dimensions of the two devices. The FIT50 both takes up less space and weighs less than the Classic, thus making it a bit easier to move around.
Winner: BreatheSmart FIT50
22.25 x 16.75 x 10 in, 16 lbs
26.75 x 17.75 x 10 in, 21 lbs
Conclusion: Alen BreatheSmart FIT50 vs Classic – Which is the Better Air Purifier?
While it does have the lower coverage area and CADR, the Alen BreatheSmart FIT50 is still more than powerful enough for one-bedroom apartments or studios. Combined with a lower power usage and noise level, it is a great choice for urban environments.
For even bigger rooms or higher pollution levels, however, the Alen BreatheSmart Classic might be a better fit. Covering more than 1,000 square feet, it is one of the most powerful Alen air purifiers out there and is even recommended by the California Air Resources Board.
Alen BreatheSmart FIT50
Alen BreatheSmart Classic
Looking for an even more powerful smart air purifier? Find out how the Classic performs against its successor in our comparison Alen BreatheSmart Classic vs 75i.