Don't miss our holiday offer - up to 50% OFF!
Levoit Core 300 vs Honeywell HPA300: Our Pick
Affiliate Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. If you click and purchase, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting us.
We picked the one that quietly beat the other on filtration, noise, and cost — and it made our rooms feel noticeably fresher in days; want to know which?
We smell a showdown! We compare the LEVOIT Core 300 genuine replacement and a 6-pack of HPA300-compatible HEPA replacements so you can decide between OEM fit and bulk value, highlighting performance, cost, upkeep, and our pick in plain practical terms.
Allergy Relief
Levoit Core 300 OEM Replacement Filter Pack
Amazon.com
We find the genuine replacement filter delivers reliable HEPA performance and a secure fit in Core 300 units. It balances strong particle removal with activated carbon odor control, though the OEM option costs a bit more than multi-pack generics. We recommend it for users who prioritize consistent performance and compatibility.
Value Pack
Honeywell HPA300 Replacement Filter Value Pack
Amazon.com
We appreciate the strong value proposition of the multi-pack for Honeywell HPA300 users and heavy-duty households. The filters deliver solid HEPA-level cleaning at a much lower per-filter cost, though fit and pre-filter sizing can occasionally require small adjustments. We recommend this pack for buyers who want many replacements on hand and prioritize cost-effectiveness.
Levoit Core 300
Honeywell HPA300
Levoit Core 300
Honeywell HPA300
Levoit Core 300
Honeywell HPA300
Top 3 Air Purifiers You Need to Impulse Clean Your Space
1
Product overviews and key specifications
LEVOIT Genuine Core 300-P — OEM single replacement
We’ll start with the genuine Levoit filter built for the Core 300-P / Core 300S-P. This is the OEM option if you want guaranteed fit, filter-life indicator compatibility, and manufacturer-backed performance.
6-Pack HPA300-compatible HEPA replacements — bulk value
Next is the value pack built for Honeywell HPA300 series units. This third‑party kit focuses on quantity and lower per-filter cost for households that want multiple spares.
Feature Comparison
Levoit Core 300 vs. Honeywell HPA300
VS
Type
Genuine OEM Replacement Filter
VS
Third-party Replacement Filter Pack
Compatible Models
LEVOIT Core 300-P, Core 300S-P
VS
Honeywell HPA300 series (HPA300, HPA304, HPA8350, etc.)
Filter Media
Pre-filter + True HEPA + Activated Carbon
VS
HEPA R (claimed H13/True HEPA) + Activated Carbon Pre-filters
HEPA Efficiency Rating
99.97% down to 0.3 µm (manufacturer claim)
VS
Claims up to 99.97% (manufacturer claims capture down to ~0.01 µm)
Pack Size
1 Pack
VS
6 HEPA R filters + 8 Pre-filters (value combo)
Approximate Price
$$
VS
$$
Expected Lifespan
6–8 months (recommended)
VS
Typical HEPA replacement cadence ~6 months (varies by use)
Dimensions (H x W x D)
6.3″H x 7.48″W x 7.48″D
VS
10.2″ x 6.5″ x 1.6″ (HEPA R filter dimensions)
Item Weight
1.2 pounds
VS
3.32 pounds (pack weight)
Manufacturer / Brand
LEVOIT
VS
Smilyan (third-party)
Model Info / Part Number
Core 300-RF / Part Number: Core 300-RF
VS
Hpa300-6+8
Included Components
1 x Core 300-P-RF Original Filter
VS
6 x HEPA R replacement filters, 8 x activated carbon pre-filters
Special Features
Climate Pledge Friendly; zero ozone in use; Sleep Mode compatibility
VS
Value bundle; electrostatic electret technology; energy-saving design claim
Material Type
Nylon casing with HEPA media and activated carbon layer
VS
Non-woven fabric & activated carbon; listed as carbon fiber elements
2
Filtration performance and real-world air quality
We dive into filtration effectiveness: HEPA capture efficiency, activated carbon odor and smoke removal, and how each filter performs for pollen, pet dander, and smoke. We compare lab claims to user-reported results, address airflow and pressure-drop impacts on purifier performance, and discuss expected particle removal and room-size suitability. We also note certifications or manufacturer test claims and explain how filter age and usage patterns affect real-world performance.
HEPA capture: lab claims vs what we see
Levoit’s OEM Core 300-P filter carries the clearest lab pedigree — independently tested to IEST RP C001.7 and advertised at 99.97% capture at 0.3 µm. That lines up with strong, repeatable removal of pollen, dust and pet dander in real homes.
The Honeywell‑compatible value pack advertises “H13/True HEPA” and even claims capture down to 0.01 µm. That 0.01 µm claim is a seller assertion and should be treated cautiously; true H13/H14 ratings are useful guides, but performance depends on manufacturing consistency and fit. In practice, these third‑party HEPA R filters do a good job on visible particulates and most allergens.
Activated carbon: odors, smoke and VOCs
Levoit uses a high‑density activated carbon layer designed for stronger odor/VOC adsorption; we find OEM carbon layers reduce cooking and pet smells more quickly. The Honeywell replacement bundles include A pre‑filters with carbon, which help everyday odors but often contain less carbon mass per filter — so they perform well for light odors but saturate faster during heavy smoke or VOC events.
Airflow, pressure drop and room suitability
Denser media captures more but increases pressure drop and can reduce CADR. Levoit’s OEM filter is tuned to the Core 300 platform to minimize airflow loss and avoid motor strain. The third‑party HPA300 filters advertise lower‑density construction to limit pressure drop, but fit variation can create bypass leaks that cut effective removal.
Match filters to the purifier: Core 300 filters are for small‑to‑medium rooms on that unit; HPA300‑style filters are intended for Honeywell’s larger‑room purifiers.
Filter age and usage patterns
HEPA efficiency stays high until loading reduces airflow; carbon loses VOC/odor capacity as it saturates. Replace filters faster in smoky homes, households with pets, or heavy cooking. Also note filter‑life indicators sometimes only work with OEM filters, affecting timely maintenance.
3
Cost, value, availability, and maintenance
Sticker price and per-filter math
We compare headline prices: the genuine Levoit Core 300-P runs about $27 per OEM filter (single pack). The Honeywell-compatible value pack is roughly $40 for six HEPA R filters plus eight pre-filters — about $6.67 per HEPA filter and extra pre-filters included.
Simple cost-per-month scenarios
We run two practical scenarios so you can plan budget:
Availability, shipping, and support
Both listings are commonly stocked on Amazon with Prime shipping, but multi-packs can go in and out of stock during wildfire season. We find OEM filters have the clearest manufacturer support, and Levoit’s filter‑life algorithm works only with genuine filters. Third‑party sellers offer responsive customer service but lack manufacturer warranty or indicator compatibility.
How pre-filters and carbon layers change maintenance
Pre-filters trap hair and big particles, often extend HEPA life (replace every 1–3 months). Activated carbon adsorbs VOCs/odors and saturates faster during heavy cooking or smoke — plan more frequent carbon swaps if you smell odors.
Smart stocking and recycling tips
4
Usability, noise, installation, and fitment issues
We cover user experience: ease of installation, fit and sealing (important for OEM vs third-party fits), compatibility quirks (model numbers and versions), noise implications linked to filter resistance, and whether features like Sleep Mode or smart indicators remain accurate after replacement. We’ll include pros and cons lists, troubleshooting tips if a replacement feels loose or noisy, and advice on choosing between convenience, silence, and performance.
Ease of installation
Both filters install in minutes with no tools. The Levoit Core 300-P OEM is a drop-in replacement for Core 300-P/Core 300S-P—remove back cover, swap cartridge, reset indicator. The Honeywell-compatible 6‑pack gives more spares but may require aligning the pre-filter and HEPA R properly for certain HPA300 variants.
Fit, sealing, and compatibility quirks
Noise and airflow effects
Higher filter density increases resistance and can raise fan noise or reduce CADR. Levoit OEM is tuned for Sleep Mode (≤26 dB) when paired with genuine filters. Third‑party HPA300 filters claim lower-pressure designs (may be quieter) but that can trade off capture efficiency if overly low density.
Pros and cons — usability focus
Quick troubleshooting tips
Final Verdict — Our Pick
We pick the LEVOIT Genuine Core 300 replacement as the clear winner for owners who want guaranteed fit, consistent HEPA performance, and full feature compatibility with Core 300/300S.
For buyers who want short-term value or to stock multiple spares for HPA300 family units, the 6-pack Honeywell-compatible filters are a sensible, budget-focused alternative. Buy the Levoit for peace of mind; choose the 6-pack when cost-per-filter and quantity matter most. Ready to order today? Act now.
1
Allergy Relief
Amazon.com
Levoit Core 300 OEM Replacement Filter Pack
2
Value Pack
Amazon.com
Honeywell HPA300 Replacement Filter Value Pack
I went with the 6-pack Honeywell replacement and haven’t had any complaints. Cheap, easy to swap, and they do the job for allergies.
If you’re on a budget, the Honeywell pack is the smart move.
Good point, James and Anna — buying from reputable sellers is important. The Honeywell HRF-R3 spec matters for true HEPA performance, so check the model compatibility.
Same here — money saved is money saved. But watch out for fake/third-party sellers on some marketplaces.
Quick Q: Does anyone know if the Levoit Core 300 filters fit the Core300S model without firmware issues? I’m all about the smell removal (I cook a lot) but don’t wanna break anything.
Also, are the Honeywell pre-filters washable?
FWIW, I once tried washing a pre-filter and it warped a bit. Not worth the risk.
Yep — core300S accepts the same pack. I’m a messy cook and Levoit saved me from burning smells 😂
Levoit’s Core 300 and Core300S use compatible physical filters — they fit. Firmware doesn’t affect filter recognition in these models. For Honeywell, most pre-filters are replaceable, not washable; you can vacuum them to extend life but washing may damage the media.
I vacuum the pre-filter on my Honeywell every month and it lasts longer. The 6-pack is super convenient when you forget to reorder.
Lol, I bought both. The Levoit in the bedroom, Honeywell in the living room.
Levoit = better for bedtime (quiet + smell control)
Honeywell = beast mode when I cook fish or have house guests.
Best of both worlds, and cheaper than arguing about which to keep 😂
Smart move. I might do the same, split duties by room.
Haha domestic peace = 1, debate about devices = 0
Splitting by room is a common and practical approach — match the unit to the room size and the typical source of contaminants.
Also helps you compare real-world filter life between brands in your environment.
Two devices here too. My partner loves the Levoit look; I don’t mind the Honeywell roar in the den.
Minor rant: some sellers list ‘HEPA’ but it’s not true HEPA. The Honeywell pack I bought once looked legit but the packaging was off. Be careful. 😒
Good warning, Kevin. Look for model numbers (HRF-R3 for Honeywell) and buy from authorized sellers or the manufacturer’s store when possible.
Same experience — returned a fake-looking filter. Now I buy from the official brand pages or big trusted retailers.
I tested both for odor removal — Levoit with the activated carbon performed better on smoke/food odors. Honeywell still cleared particulates well, but needed more runtime to remove smells. Not a scientific lab test, but credible for everyday use.
Also, sometimes the Honeywell pre-filter traps big stuff so the HEPA lasts longer — that was neat.
I’ve been thinking about getting a small ozone-free ionizer too — any thoughts? (I know some are junk.)
Thanks for the hands-on test, Daniel. That matches lab expectations: carbon for VOCs/odors, HEPA for particulates. Runtime and pre-filtering do affect perceived performance.
Good note about runtime — I run my Honeywell at a higher speed sometimes to tackle odors faster, but it’s louder.
Heads up: the Honeywell 6-pack usually includes pre-filters and the HEPA R? So it’s literally a year’s worth for me (light use). If you run heavy, plan to replace more often. Also, there’s noticeable savings buying in bulk.
Exactly — bulk buying is why I stuck with Honeywell. The math adds up fast.
Bulk packs are great for cost savings, but check seller authenticity. Some third-party packs may have lower carbon content or thinner media.
Is there a rule of thumb for replacement frequency? I saw ‘6-12 months’ across sites and got confused.
I’m allergic to pollen and dust mites — switched to Levoit filters because the activated carbon seemed like a bonus.
Noticed fewer sneezes during spring. Could be placebo, but my sinuses thank me.
Activated carbon mainly targets odors and VOCs, while HEPA traps particulates like pollen. But filter design can affect airflow and capture efficiency, which might explain your improvement.
Placebo or not, if it helps you sleep better it’s worth it 👍