Air Quality research
What is CADR
What is CADR explained with source boundaries, specification context, and BenchPicked methodology notes.
Written by BenchPicked Editorial Team · Sources checked May 13, 2026
What this page covers
This page organizes published product information, source notes, and buying context without presenting first-hand test results or medical conclusions.
Research summary
Overview
CADR, or Clean Air Delivery Rate, is a published airflow metric used to compare how quickly room air cleaners move filtered air for dust, smoke, and pollen.
Review boundary
BenchPicked separates general background information from product performance claims.
Source notes
- EPA Guide To Air Cleaners In The Home · Government · Checked May 13, 2026
- AHAM Verifide Room Air Cleaner Directory · Industry Standard · Checked May 13, 2026
Questions
What does CADR mean?
CADR means Clean Air Delivery Rate, a room air cleaner metric reported separately for dust, smoke, and pollen.
Why do dust, smoke, and pollen CADR numbers differ?
The numbers can differ because each particle category is measured separately, so a product can perform differently across particle sizes.
Is CADR the same as room coverage?
No. CADR is an airflow performance metric, while room coverage is a manufacturer or standards-based room-size estimate.
How to use this page
Use this page as a source-attributed starting point. Check the published specs, read the methodology, and compare related pages before making a purchase decision.