During our last big round of air purifier reviews we tested and reviewed Shark’s HP201 Clean Sense Max. When we chose the HP201 model we saw that there was a very similar model being sold by Shark, the HP202. While they are very similar, they aren’t exactly the same. In this article we cover the differences we found between the Shark HP201 and HP202.
Shark Clean Sense Air Purifiers
Shark HP201 Air Purifier
Shark HP202 Air Purifier
Differences Between the Shark HP201 and HP202
The HP201 and HP202 Clean Sense Air Purifier Max models have a lot in common. The only differences are that the HP202 is designed for slightly larger spaces than the HP201 and the color that each air purifier is available in.
The Shark HP201 is designed for spaces up to 1,000 square feet and is available in white. The HP202 is designed for larger spaces, up to 1,200 square feet, and is available in charcoal grey.
RELATED: Shark makes a 3-in-1 air purifier, fan and heater! See our review of the Shark Air Purifier 3-in-1 MAX HC502.
Similarities
There’s far more similarities than differences. Both are the same shape, size and weight. The HP201 and HP202 also both use the same set of filters including a pre-filter for larger debris, a carbon filter for odors and VOCs and a HEPA filter.
Both units have Shark’s Clean Sense IQ technology. Clean Sense IQ is made up of a PM2.5 particle meter, some computer logic and a visual air quality indicator on the side of each air purifier.
Beyond reporting on the current indoor air quality, Clean Sense IQ also responds to it, increasing or decreasing the air purifier’s fan speed. The real-time visual air quality display has three colors which provide air quality at a glance. A Blue ring indicates good air quality, yellow means fair and red indicates air quality.
In addition to the circular colored ring, a ‘clean air’ percentage number from zero to one hundred percent is also displayed.
The HP201 and HP202 both also have a filter life indicator, child lock, timer and light dimmer.
Shark notes that the HP201 and HP202 are fit for trapping indoor allergens including pollen, pollutants, dust, pet dander, smoke and fumes. With it’s better-than-HEPA rating, the Shark filter should also be capable of capturing bacteria, mold, and any other airborne particle or irritant other HEPA filters trap.
One shared but notable specification is that both are rated to capture 99.98% of large, small and micro-sized particles. What’s important there is that the level of filtration is better-than-HEPA levels.
Overall, we found the combination of Shark’s NANOSEAL, fan, motor and 3-stage filtration to perform better than average when we tested the HP201 vs. the Oransi Mod air purifier.
When to Choose the Shark HP202
The choice here is simple. If you are looking for an air purifier which is manufacturer rated for up to 1,200 square feet, the HP202 is the right choice.
When to Choose the Shark HP201
If you’re looking for an air purifier for up to 1,000 square feet you could purchase either air purifier. So, price should guide your decision in this case.
Shark HP201 Air Purifer
Shark HP202 Air Purifier
Specs
| Shark HP201 | Shark HP202 | |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Coverage | 1,000 sq. ft. | 1,200 sq. ft. |
| PM2.5 Sensor | Yes | Yes |
| Air Quality Indicator | Yes | Yes |
| Pre Filter | Yes | Yes |
| HEPA Filter | Yes | Yes |
| Carbon Filter | Yes | Yes |
| Filter Rating | 99.98% (.1 – .2 microns) | 99.98% (.1 – .2 microns) |
| Time | Yes | Yes |
| Child Lock | Yes | Yes |
| Motor | 36W | 36W |
| Cord | 6’ | 6’ |
| Dimensions | 10.8″ x 10.8″ x 22.5″ | 10.8″ x 10.8″ x 22.5″ |
| Weight | 10.9 lbs. | 10.9 lbs. |
| Certifications | CARB, Energy Star, UL | CARB, Energy Star, UL |
| Colors | White | Grey |
| Where to Buy | Amazon | Amazon |