I’ve been using the Coway AirMega 200M for about a year now, but I’ve been using multiple AP-1512H air purifiers for multiple years. Here are the differences between the models.
AirMega 200M vs AP-1512HH: The Short Version
Let’s start this review by noting that the AirMega 200M is essentially the same model as the Coway AP-1512HH air purifier. Both are excellent air purifiers that regularly sell for under $200, but can be found for closer to $150 when deals are running (or closer to $230 during period of peak demand).
A note on naming: The AirMega 200M is the most common name used for this second model, but it’s also sold as the Coway AP-1518R. So if you are researching the purifier, you might need to hunt down using one name or the other.
Where to Buy
The AP-1512HH is perennial best-seller on Amazon.com and you can normally find the best deal there, but the purifier is sold many other places as well. These include, but aren’t limited to, Buy Buy Baby, Bed Bath and Beyond, and Walmart. You can also buy it direct from Coway.
The AirMega 200M is most popularly seen on Walmart.com, but you can also buy it direct from Coway and from Home Depot.
Efficiency
If efficiency is something you demand from an always-on device like your air purifier, then looking for an Energy Star label is a very good start.
Both air purifiers are Energy Star listed, though neither falls under the “Most Efficient” label.
The AirMega 200M is more efficient overall, thanks to slightly lower resting energy use and lower expected energy use over the course of a year. The 200M is about 7.5% more efficient than the old 1512HH.
Specifications
According to the air purifier specs, the AP-1512HH works on rooms up to 362 square feet. The AirMega is rated for 374 square feet… essentially the same number.
Both fans are true HEPA filters and they use the same replacement filter, the AP-1512HH-FP. Coway calls the filter the “Airmega 200M & AP-1512HH Filter Set” as evidence of how they are exactly the same.
Both purifiers also use a deodorizing pre-filter that is included with the filter.
Design
The two fans are essentially the same design internally — basically a box fan with a filter behind it — but they have difference outsides. The AP-1512HH has a curvy design that feels a bit dated in 2022. This design has been in use since 2012 then the purifier first went on sale. The overall feel is solid, but rather plastic-y and it’s feeling its age.
The AirMega 200M has a more modern design with a grill-style front that is more modern and attractive than the older models. Coway has largely shifted their current designed to the perforated plastic found on the AirMega and away from the AP-1512HH.
Remote And Smart Features
Both fans have no connected or smart features. This means no Bluetooth, no wifi, nothing internet related. The “smart” model is the Coway 1512HH-S.
Neither fan has a remote or the option to use one.
Concluding Thoughts
These are essentially the same air purifier, but the AirMega 200M is slightly more efficient and has more modern styling. The AP1515-HH is more likely to be found on sale though.