Honeywell HCM-630

Reviews say the compact Honeywell HCM-630 cool-mist humidifier provides convenient features and adequate moisture at an affordable price. It has a 3-gallon daily output -- enough to humidify an average living room -- and the tank holds 1.5 gallons. The Honeywell HCM-630 uses filters that catch dust and pollen, as well as reduce mold, bacteria and mineral buildup. While these filters are said to last up to three months depending on usage and water quality, some owners complain that they only last six weeks. At $13 each, the cost of replacement filters may make the Honeywell HCM-630 better suited for seasonal operation instead of year-round use. Another complaint about the Honeywell HCM-630 is its noise level, though most owners say it doesn't keep them awake at night. The Kenmore 15408 (*est. $110) costs much more, but it outputs up to 8 gallons of water per day, so it can cover a larger area of up to 1,700 square feet.

Good Housekeeping gives the Honeywell HCM-631 (the exact same model, only finished in black instead of white) second place overall in its test of 21 room-size humidifiers, Write-ups by owners on Amazon.com and Buzzillions.com offer deeper insight into how the Honeywell HCM-630 and 631 perform over time.