N95 Filter vs KN95 Filter: What’s the Difference

If you are looking for a face mask that can protect you from the coronavirus, you may have come across two types of filters: N95 and KN95. These are both standards that indicate how well a mask can filter out airborne particles, such as viruses and bacteria. However, they are not exactly the same, and there are some differences between them. Here are some of the main differences between N95 filter and KN95 filter:

N95 filter is a standard set by the US National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), while KN95 filter is a standard set by the Chinese National Medical Products Administration (NMPA).
N95 filter requires a mask to have a minimum filtration efficiency of 95% for non-oily particles that are 0.3 microns or larger in diameter, while KN95 filter requires a mask to have a minimum filtration efficiency of 95% for non-oily particles that are 0.075 microns or larger in diameter.
N95 filter tests a mask’s resistance to oil-based particles, such as lubricants or pesticides, while KN95 filter does not test for oil resistance.
N95 filter tests a mask’s fit and leakage, while KN95 filter does not test for fit and leakage.
N95 filter masks are certified by NIOSH and approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), while KN95 filter masks are certified by NMPA and approved by the Chinese General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine (AQSIQ).
Both N95 filter and KN95 filter masks can provide a high level of protection against airborne particles, but they have some differences in their standards and quality. You should always check the authenticity and validity of the masks before buying or using them. You should also follow the instructions on how to wear, store, and dispose of the masks properly.