> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.sonohealth.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# SonoHealth AirPro vs. Winix 5500-2

> AirPro HEPA 14 vs. the Winix 5500-2: filter grade, UV-C vs. PlasmaWave ionizer, coverage, noise, and value compared to help you choose.

The SonoHealth AirPro and the Winix 5500-2 are both popular mid-priced purifiers, but they clean the air differently: the AirPro uses medical-grade **HEPA 14 (99.995% at 0.3 microns) plus fully enclosed, ozone-free UV-C**, while the Winix 5500-2 pairs a **True HEPA (99.97%)** filter with a washable activated-carbon filter and an **optional PlasmaWave ionizer**. The AirPro is graded higher and is ozone-free by design; the Winix is AHAM-rated with a well-known track record and an ionizer you can switch off.

## Quick comparison

| Feature                 | **SonoHealth AirPro**                                         | Winix 5500-2                                                    |
| ----------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------- | --------------------------------------------------------------- |
| **Filter grade**        | HEPA 14 (99.995% at 0.3 µm)                                   | True HEPA (99.97% at 0.3 µm)                                    |
| **Extra sterilization** | Fully enclosed UV-C (254 nm)                                  | PlasmaWave ionizer (optional, can be switched off)              |
| **Filtration stages**   | 3-stage + UV-C                                                | 3-stage (pre-filter, washable carbon, True HEPA) + PlasmaWave   |
| **Coverage**            | 430 sq ft / 10 min; up to 1,200 sq ft / 30 min                | \~360 sq ft (AHAM-rated)                                        |
| **Noise**               | 25--50 dB (Night Mode 25 dB)                                  | \~28--55 dB                                                     |
| **Smart features**      | Lifetime filter tracker, Smart Timer, Night Mode, 360° intake | Auto mode, air-quality sensor, sleep mode                       |
| **Ozone**               | None (no ionizer)                                             | None with PlasmaWave off; ionizers can emit trace ozone when on |
| **Certifications**      | EN 1822 HEPA 14; Certified Safe                               | Energy Star; AHAM Verifide                                      |
| **Warranty**            | 2-year (lifetime with filter subscription)                    | \~1-year (typical)                                              |
| **Price**               | \$169                                                         | Typically \~$160--$250                                          |

## Filtration: HEPA 14 vs. True HEPA

The Winix 5500-2 is a well-regarded **True HEPA** purifier that captures **99.97% of particles at 0.3 microns**. The AirPro's **HEPA 14** filter is rated to **99.995% at 0.3 microns** (EN 1822) -- about **10x fewer particles** passing through at the hardest-to-catch size. Both add activated carbon for odors, smoke, and VOCs; the Winix uses a washable carbon pre-filter, while the AirPro's carbon is part of its sealed 3-stage cartridge. Compare grades in [HEPA 14 vs. True HEPA](/air-purifier/hepa-14-vs-true-hepa).

## UV-C vs. PlasmaWave: the key safety difference

This is where the two diverge most. The AirPro adds a **sealed UV-C lamp** that targets microorganisms after filtration, with **no ozone** and no user exposure. The Winix's extra stage is **PlasmaWave**, a bipolar ionization feature that is **optional and can be turned off** -- worth knowing because ionizers can produce trace ozone when active.

<Warning>
  If anyone in your home has asthma or another respiratory condition, avoid running any ionizer, and choose purifiers that rely on mechanical filtration. The AirPro is ozone-free by design (no ionizer); on the Winix, keep PlasmaWave switched off. See [HEPA vs. Ionizer Air Purifiers](/air-purifier/hepa-vs-ionizer-air-purifiers).
</Warning>

## Coverage and noise

The Winix 5500-2 is AHAM-rated for about **360 sq ft** with an auto mode driven by its air-quality sensor. SonoHealth rates the AirPro at **430 sq ft in 10 minutes and up to 1,200 sq ft in 30 minutes** (measured as area over time rather than a single published CADR), with a **25 dB Night Mode** for bedrooms. Because the brands publish coverage differently, size to your actual room using [Room Coverage](/air-purifier/room-coverage) and [CADR vs. ACH Explained](/air-purifier/cadr-vs-ach-explained).

## Which should you buy?

* **Choose the AirPro** for the higher HEPA 14 grade, built-in ozone-free UV-C, larger rated coverage, a 25 dB night mode, a longer (and optionally lifetime) warranty, and a 60-day free trial.
* **Choose the Winix 5500-2** if you want a proven, Energy Star, AHAM-verified True HEPA unit with an auto sensor and a washable carbon filter, and you don't need UV-C (keep PlasmaWave off for sensitive lungs).

## Bottom line

Both are solid, ozone-free-capable purifiers. The **AirPro leads on filtration grade, UV-C, coverage, warranty, and trial period at \$169**; the **Winix 5500-2** is a dependable True HEPA option best used with PlasmaWave off. SonoHealth is a Google Top Quality Store (sitewide 4.7 stars across 673 verified reviews).

The AirPro is a consumer wellness appliance that reduces airborne particles; it is not a medical device and does not treat any condition. Talk to a clinician about specific respiratory concerns.

***

**Related:** [AirPro vs. Levoit](/air-purifier/airpro-vs-levoit) · [AirPro vs. Coway](/air-purifier/airpro-vs-coway) · [AirPro vs. Blueair](/air-purifier/airpro-vs-blueair) · [AirPro vs. Competitors](/air-purifier/vs-competitors) · [Buy AirPro](/air-purifier/buy)