Our verdict
Pick the Winix D480 if it is the cheaper of the two on the day you buy. Pick the Winix 5520 if your room is larger and you want the lower price.
The central trade-off
Rated room size. Winix 5520 Air Purifier: 1,882 square feet; Winix D480 Air Purifier: 498 sq ft (AHAM).
Power draw. Winix 5520 Air Purifier states 50 watts; the other's maker page doesn't.
Filters. Winix D480 Air Purifier: Washable pre-filter, activated carbon filter and True HEPA filter.
Filters. Winix 5520 Air Purifier: HEPA.
Price. When we checked, the Winix 5520 Air Purifier listed for less ($180 against $250); prices move, so check both buttons.
Side by side
| Specification | Winix D480 Air Purifier | Winix 5520 Air Purifier |
|---|---|---|
| Rated room size | 498 sq ft (AHAM) | 1,882 sq ft |
| Smoke CADR | Not stated by the maker | Not stated by the maker |
| CADR | Not stated by the maker | Not stated by the maker |
| Quietest setting | Not stated by the maker | Not stated by the maker |
| Noise | Not stated by the maker | 27 db |
| Power draw | Not stated by the maker | 50 watts |
| Filters | Washable pre-filter, activated carbon filter and True HEPA filter | HEPA |
| Warranty | 1 year | Not stated by the maker |
Values are the makers' published specifications. "Not stated" means the maker doesn't publish it.