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Re: User feedback - Sharp KC-C150U vs KC860U

A Reader writes:

A few quick observations...

1. Both Sahrp Plasmacluster KC-C150U and its successor KC860U use the same exact filters (four including the foam dust sensor filter), filters are installed the same exact locations between the two. I verified this visually and by way of model numbers called out in their respective operation manuals.

2. Digital dust monitor front panel is now larger and provides for instantaneous readout from a distance. KC-C150U top panel was finished in a clear coat. This is not the case with KC860U and is an obvious cost cutting measure.

KC-C150U top panel buttons also appear to provide superior tactile feedback and whereas its CLEAN AIR and CLEAN AIR & HUMIDIFY buttons were colored a shade of blue, the KC860U has done way with that (all white buttons sans clear coat). I have already noticed top panel swirl marks (due to use) on the standard matte plastic finish of the KC860.

3. KC860U calls out five years between replacement on the washable deodorizing (carbon) filter.

4. CADR and dBa numbers (mfr spec) across cleaning modes very close, almost insignificant.

5. From usage to maintenance, operation is the exact same. Own one and you will understand how to operate the other. Water tank and dust sensor and humidifying trays are the exact same between the two and are interchangeable.

6. KC580 has an added POLLEN mode (10 min on High, cycle MED and HIGH every 20minutes thereafter).

7. Whereas KC-C150U ion discharge was near silent, KC580 ion discharge is clearly audible at a distance. The crackling is unmistakable from at least twenty feet away except when the fan speed is set to MAX.

8. KC-C150U reads out humidity in gradients of ten (e.g. 30%, 40%, 50%). KC860U reads out humidity down to single digit precision (35%, 42%, 57%).

All in all, the KC580 offers only one upgrade of great interest to me: Next generation Plasmacluster technology. The audible discharge was annoying at first, acceptance over time was the resolution.

The improved dust sensor and humidity readouts are nice touches as well. POLLEN mode is of no great interest to me and I am sorely disappointed that a timer was not integrated in a product at this price range. I would have gladly paid more for the inclusion of a remote control. I have yet to comb through literature to determine whether ozone introduction has been further reduced. And I would have preferred the clear coated top panel of the KC-C150U.

A Reader.

Ed's Reply

Hey Reader;

Thanks for the quality feedback.

As you have noticed, Sharp has been visibly cutting corners as their successful market penetration proceeds, as well as raising price on new models.

While this is a disappointment to those who loved the early Plasmaclusters, they are still a contender for top price performance air cleaning.

Many users will be glad to hear about the filter continuity between models, an issue with some past Sharps.

Best wishes,

Ed

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