Best Synthetic Furnace Filters of 2026

Howard Chester Avatar
Howard Chester
Last Updated: Jan 20, 2026

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Synthetic furnace filters are a type of air filter designed to improve indoor air quality. These filters are made from synthetic materials, such as polyester or fiberglass, and are designed to trap a wide range of airborne particles, including dust, pollen, pet dander, and mold spores. They are highly efficient and can capture particles as small as 0.3 microns in size. Synthetic furnace filters are an excellent choice for people with allergies or respiratory issues, as they can help to reduce the amount of allergens and other irritants in the air. They are also easy to install and maintain, making them a convenient choice for homeowners.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Filterbuy 16x20x1 Air Filter MERV 8 Dust Defense (4-Pack) Cover #TOP 1
Filterbuy 16x20x1 Air Filter MERV 8 Dust Defense (4-Pack)
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Filterbuy 20x25x4 Air Filter MERV 8 Dust Defense (2-Pack) Cover #TOP 2
Filterbuy 20x25x4 Air Filter MERV 8 Dust Defense (2-Pack)
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Filterbuy 20x25x5 Air Filter MERV 8 Dust Defense (2-Pack) Cover #TOP 3
Filterbuy 20x25x5 Air Filter MERV 8 Dust Defense (2-Pack)
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Synthetic Furnace Filters

Filterbuy 16x20x1 Air Filter MERV 8 Dust Defense (4-Pack)

AFB16x20x1M8pk4
Silver
Filterbuy 16x20x1 Air Filter MERV 8 Dust Defense (4-Pack) Cover
Filterbuy 16x20x1 Air Filter MERV 8 Essential Dust & Allergy Defense (4-Pack), Electrostatic Pleated HVAC AC Furnace Filters Replacement, Made in USA (Actual Size: 15.50 x 19.50 x 0.75)

Filterbuy Air Filter is a set of 16x20x1 replacement filters suitable for your furnace, air conditioner, heat pump, or HVAC system. The filters are made of MERV 8 synthetic media, which makes them comparable with MPR 600 & FPR 5. This feature enables the filters to capture up to 90% of airborne particles, such as dust and pollen, without affecting air flow. The electrostatically charged, pleated design captures more harmful particles and increases the lifespan of the product by three times that of fiberglass models. The industrial-grade beverage board frames with dual wire backings outperform the standard cardboard designs. All components of the Filterbuy Air Filter are made in the United States with recyclable materials.

What We Like
Excellent air quality improvement
Perfect fit for multiple systems
Durable and long-lasting
Easy installation and storage
Strong dust and particle filtration

Filterbuy 20x25x4 Air Filter MERV 8 Dust Defense (2-Pack)

AFB20x25x4M8pk2
Silver
Filterbuy 20x25x4 Air Filter MERV 8 Dust Defense (2-Pack) Cover
Filterbuy 20x25x4 Air Filter MERV 8 Essential Dust & Allergy Defense (2-Pack), Electrostatic Pleated HVAC AC Furnace Filters Replacement, Made in USA (Actual Size: 19.50 x 24.50 x 3.63)

Filterbuy Air Filter is a pack of two 20x25x4 replacement filters designed for your HVAC system. The MERV 8 synthetic media is electrostatically charged and pleated, capturing up to 90% of airborne particles like dust and pollen without affecting the air flow. The high-quality construction of the filter extends its lifespan by three times that of fiberglass models, and the industrial-grade beverage board frames with dual wire backings outperform standard cardboard designs. All components are made in the United States with recyclable materials. The Filterbuy Air Filter is a reliable and durable choice for keeping your home clean and comfortable.

What We Like
90% particle trapping
Longer lifespan
Dual wire backing
#TOP 3

Filterbuy 20x25x5 Air Filter MERV 8 Dust Defense (2-Pack)

HRF20x25x5M8=CARpk2
Silver
Filterbuy 20x25x5 Air Filter MERV 8 Dust Defense (2-Pack) Cover
Filterbuy 20x25x5 Air Filter MERV 8 Essential Dust & Allergy Defense (2-Pack), Pleated HVAC AC Furnace Filters for Honeywell FC100A1037, Lennox X6673, and More (Actual Size: 19.88 x 24.75 x 4.38)

Filterbuy 20x25x5 Air Filter MERV 8 Dust Defense (2-Pack) is a replacement for your furnace, air conditioner, heat pump or HVAC system. With MERV 8 synthetic media, it can capture 90% of airborne particles without impacting air flow, protecting homes from dust, pollen, and more. The electrostatically charged, pleated filters are 100% US made, capturing more harmful particles and lasting 3x longer than fiberglass models. The filters also have industrial-grade beverage board (recyclable) frames with dual wire backings outperforming standard cardboard designs.

What We Like
Traps 90% of airborne particles without impacting air flow
Lasts 3x longer than fiberglass models
Industrial-grade beverage board (recyclable) frames with dual wire backings
#TOP 4

Nordic Pure MERV 12 Pleated Air Filters 2 Pack

20x25x4
Nordic Pure MERV 12 Pleated Air Filters 2 Pack Cover
Nordic Pure 20x25x4 (19_1/2 x 24_1/2 x 3_5/8) Pleated MERV 12 Air Filters 2 Pack

The Nordic Pure MERV 12 Pleated Air Filters come in a 2 pack, and the nominal size is 20 x 25 x 4. The actual size is 19 1/2 x 24 1/2 x 3 5/8 (19.5 x 24.5 x 3.63), so it is recommended to measure your air filter for the exact size and compare it to the actual size to ensure proper fit. These filters are made in the USA and have a MERV 12 rating, which is equivalent to MPR 1500-1900.

What We Like
Comes in a 2 pack
Made in the USA
MERV 12 rating is equivalent to MPR 1500-1900
#TOP 5

Filterbuy 20x25x5 Air Filter MERV 11 Allergen Defense (2-Pack)

HRF20x25x5M11=CARpk2
Gold
Filterbuy 20x25x5 Air Filter MERV 11 Allergen Defense (2-Pack) Cover
Filterbuy 20x25x5 Air Filter MERV 11 Superior Pet & Allergy Defense (2-Pack), Pleated HVAC AC Furnace Filters for Honeywell FC100A1037, Lennox X6673, and More (Actual Size: 19.88 x 24.75 x 4.38)

Filterbuy 20x25x5 Air Filter MERV 11 Allergen Defense (2-Pack) is a compatible replacement filter for your whole house air filters. The MERV 11 synthetic media protects your home from pets, allergies, and more by trapping 95% of airborne particles without impacting air flow. The pleated filters are electrostatically charged, capturing more harmful particles and lasting 3x longer than fiberglass models. The industrial-grade beverage board frames with dual wire backings outperform standard cardboard designs.

What We Like
Compatible with various models including Honeywell, Lennox, Carrier, Bryant, Day & Night, and Payne.
MERV 11 synthetic media captures 95% of airborne particles without impacting air flow.
Pleated filters are electrostatically charged and last 3x longer than fiberglass models.
#TOP 6

Filterbuy 16x25x1 Air Filter MERV 8 Dust Defense (6-Pack)

AFB16x25x1M8pk6
Silver
Filterbuy 16x25x1 Air Filter MERV 8 Dust Defense (6-Pack) Cover
Filterbuy 16x25x1 Air Filter MERV 8 Essential Dust & Allergy Defense (6-Pack), Electrostatic Pleated HVAC AC Furnace Filters Replacement, Made in USA (Actual Size: 15.50 x 24.50 x 0.75)

Filterbuy 16x25x1 Air Filter MERV 8 Dust Defense (6-Pack) is a set of high-quality replacement air filters designed for furnaces, air conditioners, heat pumps, or HVAC systems. It features electrostatically charged, pleated design that captures more harmful particles, MERV 8 synthetic media that protects homes from dust, pollen, and more by trapping 90% of airborne particles without impacting air flow, and industrial-grade beverage board frames with dual wire backings that outperform standard cardboard designs. All components of this product are manufactured in the United States and designed with recyclable materials.

What We Like
High-quality construction
Electrostatically charged, pleated design
MERV 8 synthetic media protects homes from dust, pollen, and more by trapping 90% of airborne particles without impacting air flow
Industrial-grade beverage board frames with dual wire backings outperform standard cardboard designs
All components are manufactured within the United States and designed with recyclable materials
#TOP 7

Aerostar 16x25x1 MERV 13 Pleated Air Filter, 6 Pack

16x25x1 MERV 13
MERV 13
6 PACK
Aerostar 16x25x1 MERV 13 Pleated Air Filter, 6 Pack Cover
Aerostar 16x25x1 MERV 13 Air Filter, 6 Count, ACTUAL SIZE (15.75 x 24.75 x 0.75), HVAC, Air Conditioning & Furnace Filter for Allergies, Dust, Pet Dander & Smoke (MPR 1500 / FPR 10), Made in USA

The Aerostar 16x25x1 MERV 13 Pleated Air Filter is a cost-effective and simple way to improve the air quality in your home. It is designed to filter microscopic particles such as dust, spores, pollen, viruses, and bacteria. The 100% synthetic electrostatic media ensures high efficiency with low air flow resistance. It is easy to install and should be changed every 60 to 90 days, or every 30 days during peak summer and winter months. It's manufactured by Filtration Group, a world-leading supplier of filtration solutions.

What We Like
Filters microscopic particles for healthier air
Easy to install
Cost-effective
#TOP 8

Filterbuy 16x25x4 MERV 11 Air Filter 2-Pack

AFB16x25x4M11pk2
Gold
Filterbuy 16x25x4 MERV 11 Air Filter 2-Pack Cover
Filterbuy 16x25x4 Air Filter MERV 11 Superior Pet & Allergy Defense (2-Pack), Electrostatic Pleated HVAC AC Furnace Filters Replacement, Made in USA (Actual Size: 15.50 x 24.50 x 3.63)

The Filterbuy MERV 11 Air Filter is designed to fit most furnaces, air conditioners, and heat pumps, making it easy for you to improve your home's air quality. Its MERV 11 rating means it effectively captures allergens, pet dander, and dust, providing cleaner air for your family. The filter uses electrostatic media with multiple pleats, which traps more tiny particles and lasts three times longer than standard fiberglass filters, so you won't need to replace it as often. Plus, its sturdy beverage board frame with wire backing offers better durability and can handle temperature changes, making installation and maintenance hassle-free.

What We Like
Wide compatibility
High allergen capture
Long-lasting filtration
Durable frame design
#TOP 9

Filterbuy MERV 11 16x25x1 Air Filter (6-Pack)

AFB16x25x1M11pk6
Gold
Filterbuy MERV 11 16x25x1 Air Filter (6-Pack) Cover
Filterbuy 16x25x1 Air Filter MERV 11 Superior Pet & Allergy Defense (6-Pack), Electrostatic Pleated HVAC AC Furnace Filters Replacement, Made in USA (Actual Size: 15.50 x 24.50 x 0.75)

The Filterbuy MERV 11 Air Filter is designed to fit your furnace, air conditioner, or heat pump, helping you keep your HVAC system running smoothly and your indoor air clean. Its MERV 11 rating means it effectively captures dust, allergens, and pet dander, making your home healthier. The filter's electrostatically charged pleated media traps tiny particles and lasts much longer than standard fiberglass filters, so you don’t have to replace it often. Plus, its sturdy frame with dual wire backing is easy to install and built to withstand extreme temperatures, ensuring durability and reliable performance for your comfort.

What We Like
Wide HVAC compatibility
High MERV 11 filtration
Long-lasting electrostatic media
Durable dual wire frame
Easy installation
#TOP 10

Aerostar MERV 13 20x20x1 Air Filter 4-Pack

20x20x1 Merv 13 4-Pack
White
4 PACK
Aerostar MERV 13 20x20x1 Air Filter 4-Pack Cover
Aerostar 20x20x1 MERV 13 Air Filter, 4 Count, ACTUAL SIZE (19.75 x 19.75 x 0.75), HVAC, Air Conditioning & Furnace Filter for Allergies, Dust, Pet Dander & Smoke (MPR 1500 / FPR 10), Made in USA

The Aerostar MERV 13 Filter is designed to improve your home's air quality by capturing tiny particles like dust, pollen, pet dander, smoke, and even some bacteria and viruses. Its actual size fits standard 20x20 inch HVAC systems, making it easy to install without hassle. The filter uses a synthetic electrostatic material that efficiently traps contaminants while allowing air to flow smoothly, so your system works well without extra strain. Changing the filter every 60 to 90 days keeps your environment healthier, and during heavy use in summer or winter, replacing it every 30 days ensures optimal performance.

What We Like
High-efficiency particle filtration
Precise standard sizing
Easy installation
Electrostatic media
Promotes healthier air
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are synthetic air filters good?

Flat panel filters made of synthetic material are somewhat more efficient, and the more dense among can improve air quality slightly. If you find either of these in your HVAC system, strongly consider upgrading to a more efficient type.

2. Are polyester furnace filters good?

Polyester Filters These filters come in medium sizes and are made of high-quality materials. Polyester filters trap between 80% and 95% of large particles. Four times more expensive than fiberglass or synthetic filters, polyester filters offer better protection against pollutants that may cause health problems.

3. What is the best material for a furnace filter?

Disposable pleated filters are made of polyester or cotton paper sheets and are better at trapping particulates. They are generally rated from six to 13 on the MERV scale. Cotton filters have higher ratings and their fibers can self-charge to remove smaller particles from the air.

4. Are generic furnace filters good?

Most of us don't notice a difference in quality, and those of us who do can tolerate it in the interest of saving cash. However, when it comes to generic furnace filters, there really is no difference in quality.

Editor's Notes

During our synthetic furnace filter research, we found 24 synthetic furnace filter products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 1,551,806 customer reviews through our big data system to write the synthetic furnace filters list. We found that most customers choose synthetic furnace filters with an average price of $41.56.

The synthetic furnace filters are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of synthetic furnace filters, including Filterbuy, Nordic Pure, Aerostar. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 12,510 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Howard Chester Avatar

Howard Chester is an architect from New York who holds a master's degree in architectural design, his passions for interior design and home improvement contribute to his extensive knowledge of all things furniture and home goods. Howard Chester Specializes in various architectural and interior design projects. He often publishes articles related to decoration on key websites and interior design magazines.