Levoit OasisMist 450S Smart Review

From effectiveness to operation cost, the Levoit Oasis Mist 450S Smart aced nearly every metric we have for humidifiers. Yes, humidifiers are simple devices that provide a specific function, but not all are created equal. The Levoit proves that it can hang with some of the best out there, and the test results speak for themselves.

Performance Comparison

Effectiveness

Our main test is conducted to assess each humidifier's capability to alter the relative humidity in a room within a one-hour timeframe.

In our testing, we discovered that the Levoit Oasis Mist 450S Smart can produce significant results, changing the relative humidity from 36.70% to 61.97% over the course of an hour. This impressive performance is attributed to its dual nozzle design, which disperses humidity in multiple directions. Although it falls slightly short of the highest-end models, the minor difference wouldn't be noticeable. With a proposed coverage of 430 sq. ft., the Levoit proves highly effective for most room sizes. In this specific test, we used a 150 sq. ft. room, which is the average bedroom size.

Ease of Cleaning

To assess the ease of cleaning for each humidifier, we meticulously followed the instructions outlined in the manuals and conducted thorough cleaning procedures. Additionally, we identified whether each device featured a top or bottom fill design. Generally, machines with a top-fill design tend to be not only simpler to fill but also easier to clean.

Thankfully, the Levoit Oasis Mist 450S Smart features a top fill design, making it effortless to clean. Unlike some models we tested that had sharp corners or difficult-to-reach nooks, especially without a bottle brush, the Levoit had no obstructions, and the cleaning process was straightforward.

Convenience

In this assessment, our goal was to evaluate multiple factors. Initially, we checked if each device comes with a humidistat, which adjusts the humidifier's output based on the room's relative humidity. Furthermore, we investigated whether the machine includes any smart features, like a companion app or nighttime mode, and determined the ease of controlling it through the interface/buttons.

The Levoit Oasis Mist 450S Smart boasts an intuitive display complemented by responsive buttons and app control, granting access to a variety of features such as scheduling, voice control, cleaning reminders, timers, humidity data history, and a comprehensive maintenance guide. Additionally, it includes a “Plant Care” mode designed to assist in maintaining optimal humidity levels for various plant species in your home. Another added bonus is that you can add aromatherapy oils to this humidifier via a small tray.

A somewhat rare feature in the world of humidifiers, the Levoit provides a warm mist function, which makes this particular model great for cold winters. However, beware, because the warm mist function does draw considerably more power and will increase the overall cost of operation. More on that below.

Lastly, as noted earlier, this model features a top fill design complemented by a convenient carrying handle. This feature simplifies the process of transporting the humidifier to and from the sink for refills.

Run Time

To assess runtime, we filled each humidifier with the minimum amount of water necessary for operation (200 mL for this model). After the humidifier stopped, we added an additional 50 mL of water directly into the base. Then, we recorded the duration until each device shut off on every setting available. For the Levoit Oasis Mist 450S Smart, which includes low, medium, and high settings, the runtimes were 17 minutes, 9 minutes, and 6 minutes, respectively.

Overall, run time is the general weakness of the Levoit, unfortunately. Due to its high output, it goes through water somewhat quickly. Thankfully, it boasts a 1.2-gallon tank (4542.49 milliliters), so you won't have to worry about filling it up too often. It automatically shuts off at 200 mL.

Considering all the strong points of the Levoit, this is hardly a dealbreaker. Especially given that the overall operation cost is quite low, which leads us right into our next metric.

Operation Cost

Here's where the rubber meets the road. The last thing you want accompanying a new device in your home is additional cost. Obviously, humidifiers, along with other electronics in your domicile, consume energy, but cutting down on it as much as possible is ideal for your bank account and the environment. This is why we've included this metric.

Firstly, we employ the use of a Kilowatt meter and record the power consumption of each humidifier. Then, we calculate it all using the most up to date national average for cost/kwh.

Now, the Levoit Oasis Mist 450S Smart is very efficient, and on average it should only cost you a relatively meager $1.50 per month, unless you run the warm mist feature, which will bump up the operation cost of this device exponentially. Use this function with caution, because it will have a large impact on your energy bill, especially when used on the highest setting.

For complete clarity, we've included a handy chart so you can see the costs for yourself. As long as you use the warm mist function sparingly, it shouldn't be a problem. It's a bummer, though, because we loved the inclusion of this function.

Should You Buy the Levoit Oasis Mist 450S Smart?

Through extensive testing, we feel as though the Levoit Oasis Mist 450S Smart deserves consideration. It performed at a high level across the board with only a few minor hiccups, which were not deal breakers, in our opinion. This is easily one of the best humidifiers on the market and it proved its worth time and time again in nearly every metric. Overall, the Levoit Oasis Mist 450S Smart combines functionality, efficiency, and convenience, making it a worthwhile investment for improving air quality and maintaining optimal humidity levels in your home.

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