There are many versions or combinations of technologies collectively known as air purifiers. The following two have gained some popularity so deserve some recognition.
Ionic air
An Ionic air purifier works by "ionizing" the air using collection plates that have an opposite charge from the particles in the air. This causes particulates to gain a positive or negative charge. The particles are then drawn to the collection plates.
Particulates can also be attracted to other particles that have an opposite charge. The two particles with opposite charges will then stick together and the combined weight causes them to fall out of the air. In this scenario the particles are simply released into the air without capturing them on plates.
Many people like ionizers because they are very quiet compared to most HEPA machines.
Advantages: extremely fine particles can be removed from anywhere in a room; even several feet away. Disadvantages: Not effective on odors; doesn't kill germs but removes them from household air.
Ultraviolet light
Ultraviolet (UV) lamps sterilize micro organisms that pass close by, including germs, viruses, bacteria, and mold; Once the micro organisms have been treated with this light, they can no longer reproduce and grow. The UV light must be used in sufficient dosage and for a sufficiently long period of time.
The question you need to ask yourself is; does the UV light have enough time to sterilize while air is moving through it at a brisk rate of speed? The following graphic illustrates this point using a candle.
Advantages: Helps destroy micro organisms that cause disease. Disadvantages: Not effective on allergens, smoke, odors, or chemicals.