Xiaomi 4 Compact vs Lite

In this Xiaomi 4 Compact vs Lite review, we will compare the two entry-level devices of the brand’s fourth generation of smart air purifiers.

As the name already suggests, the 4 Compact is a lightweight, portable, and budget-friendly purifier for personal spaces. The 4 Lite is the next biggest model in the line-up, and has thus received some upgrades. But which version is the right fit for your needs?

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

Comparison: Xiaomi 4 Compact vs Lite – What are the Differences?

Coverage Area & Efficiency

While the 4 Compact has an effective range of up to 19 m² (210 ft²), the 4 Lite can deal with up to 30 m² (323 ft²). In both instances, the recommended coverage area is based on five air changes per hour (ACH) in a room with a ceiling height of 2.4 m (8 ft).

Therefore, the two purifiers could be used in bigger rooms, with the amount of ACH decreasing accordingly. For example, if you expect only light pollution and are thus content with two ACH, the covered area would increase to 48 m² (516 ft²) and 75 m² (807 ft²), respectively.

Clean Air Delivery Rate

Xiaomi’s High Efficiency Filter, which can be found in both models, combines electrostatic and mechanical filtration. It traps 99.97% of airborne particles as small as 0.3 μm, which includes dust, PM 2.5, pollen, pet dander, smoke and microplastics.

The 4 Compact goes through the purification process at a rate of 230 m³/h for particles, compared to 360 m³/h for its bigger brother. The 4 Lite also has the upper hand when it comes to removing formaldehyde, achieving a rate of 120 m³/h versus 76 m³/h for the 4 Compact.

Working Noise

In sleep mode, the 4 Compact operates at a noise level of just 20 decibels (dB), significantly less than the 33 dB of the 4 Lite. Running at full speed, both models are tied at roughly 60 dB – which, compared to some other brands, is relatively high.

That said, the 4 Compact and Lite do have an auto mode, in which they will automatically adjust the fan speed based on air quality. As soon as the amount of pollutants starts to decrease after a sudden spike, their fan speed will decrease accordingly.

Sensors & Display

To gather the real-time data needed for the auto mode, the 4 Compact relies on an infrared sensor. The 4 Lite, on the other hand, is equipped with a mode advanced laser sensor. And unlike its competitor, it is also able to track temperature and humidity levels within the room.

In both models, a four-colored indicator light reveals the air quality at a quick glance, with green signifying fresh and clean and red warning of high pollution. The display of the 4 Lite includes even more detailed information, such as the current concentration of PM2.5.

Connectivity & Compatibility

You can use a Wi-Fi connection, your smartphone, and the Mi Home / Xiaomi Home app to monitor and control the 4 Compact and Lite remotely. This allows you to turn the purifier on and off, change the speed, create a schedule, view the remaining filter life, and more.

If you don’t have your smartphone nearby or your hands full, you can also interact with the 4 Compact and Lite using only your voice. Thanks to their compatibility with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, they can be seemingly integrated with your smart home.

Weight & Dimensions

In the final round of this Xiaomi 4 Compact vs Lite comparison, we will have a quick look at the weight and dimensions of the two devices. At just 2.2 kg (4.85 lb), the 4 Compact weighs less than half the 4 Lite. It also takes up less space than its competitor.

Conclusion: Xiaomi 4 Compact vs Lite – Which is the Better Air Purifier?

Unsurprisingly, the Xiaomi Smart Air Purifier 4 Compact is not as powerful as its successor. It is, however, significantly more quiet on the lower end, weighs less than half, and has a smaller footprint – making it a great choice for your night stand or your desk.

If you need the additional performance, you should obviously go with the Xiaomi Smart Air Purifier 4 Lite instead. Besides the higher coverage area and CADR, it is also equipped with a more advanced sensor, allowing you to keep track of changes in air quality via the app.

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