COMPARISON · UK 2026
Meaco Arete One 20L vs Russell Hobbs RHDH2002
Quick verdict: The MeacoDry Arete One 20L is the stronger all-round choice for quieter operation, lower published power use, a larger tank, HEPA filtration and a 5-year warranty. The Russell Hobbs RHDH2002 is the better value option if upfront price matters most.
This comparison uses current UK product information checked in October 2026. Prices and availability can change.
At a Glance
| Feature | Meaco Arete One 20L | Russell Hobbs RHDH2002 |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Compressor | Compressor |
| Rated extraction | 20L/day class | 20L/day |
| Power | 216W at 20°C / 60% RH | 440W rated |
| Noise | 38–40 dB(A) | About 47.5 dB |
| Tank | 4.8L | 3L |
| Laundry mode | Yes | Yes |
| Air purification | HEPA filter | No dedicated HEPA purifier |
| Warranty | 5 years | 1 year |
Extraction ratings are laboratory figures. Real-world performance varies with temperature and humidity.
Price, Running Cost & Noise
Price: Russell Hobbs is usually cheaper upfront, while Meaco sits in the premium part of the 20L market.
Running cost: Meaco publishes 216W at 20°C and 60% RH; Russell Hobbs is rated at 440W. Using the same 26.32p/kWh rate for illustration, that is roughly 6p/hour versus about 12p/hour at full rated draw.
Noise: Meaco is rated at 38–40 dB(A), while the Russell Hobbs is commonly listed around 47.5 dB, so Meaco is the easier option for living spaces and near bedrooms.
For more efficient options, see our best low-energy dehumidifiers UK guide.
Laundry, Tank Size & Daily Use
Both models have enough capacity for regular indoor laundry and both support continuous drainage. The Russell Hobbs gives you 20L-class extraction for less money, which makes it attractive as a dedicated laundry helper.
The Meaco is more refined for frequent use because it combines a larger 4.8L tank with lower published power use and quieter operation. The Russell Hobbs tank is 3L, so it can need emptying more often in damp conditions.
If laundry is your main reason for buying, see our best dehumidifiers for drying clothes UK guide.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the Meaco Arete One 20L if:
- You expect to use the dehumidifier regularly.
- Lower published power use matters.
- You want quieter operation.
- You prefer a larger tank.
- You want HEPA air purification.
- A 5-year warranty matters to you.
Choose the Russell Hobbs RHDH2002 if:
- You want a 20L dehumidifier at a lower upfront price.
- You need laundry mode and automatic humidity control.
- You are happy with a smaller tank and higher rated power draw.
- Price matters more than noise and warranty length.
Detailed buying decision: Arete One 20L vs RHDH2002
Both are 20L-class compressor dehumidifiers, but maximum extraction figures are measured under controlled conditions; actual UK room extraction varies with temperature and humidity.
| Feature | Meaco Arete One 20L | Russell Hobbs RHDH2002 |
|---|---|---|
| Water tank | 4.8L | 3L |
| Published electrical power | 216W at 20°C, 60% RH | 440W rated input |
| Controls | Humidistat and laundry mode | Timer, dryer and smart modes |
| Drainage | Continuous drainage option | Hose connection |
Running cost caution: 216W and 440W were reported under different specifications and should not be treated as a controlled, like-for-like efficiency test. At 26.32p/kWh, continuous use at these powers would cost around 5.7p and 11.6p per hour respectively, before any cycling. Compare similar test conditions and moisture removed per kWh before drawing a definitive efficiency conclusion.
Which to choose? The larger Meaco tank can mean fewer emptying trips, while the Russell Hobbs timer may better suit scheduled use. Choose by room humidity, noise preferences, controls and verified current prices rather than only the 20L headline.
Continue with our 12L vs 20L size guide, another 20L comparison and free running-cost calculator.
Published specifications: Meaco and RHDH2002 retailer listing. No hands-on testing is claimed.
Our Verdict
Winner for most households: Meaco Arete One 20L. It costs more, but the combination of 216W published power use, 38–40 dB noise, a 4.8L tank, HEPA filtration and a 5-year warranty makes it the stronger long-term package.
Best value pick: Russell Hobbs RHDH2002. If your main priority is getting 20L-class performance at a lower purchase price, it remains a compelling option.
For a broader shortlist, see our Best Dehumidifiers UK guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Meaco Arete One 20L cheaper to run?
On published power figures, yes. Meaco lists 216W at 20°C and 60% RH, while the Russell Hobbs is rated at 440W. Real-world consumption still depends on room conditions and compressor duty cycle.
Which one is quieter?
The Meaco. Its published noise figure is 38–40 dB(A), compared with around 47.5 dB for the Russell Hobbs RHDH2002.
Is the Russell Hobbs RHDH2002 good for laundry?
Yes. It has a 20L/day rating and laundry-focused operation. Its main trade-offs versus the Meaco are higher rated power use, a smaller tank and more noise.
Research & Affiliate Disclosure
This comparison is based on published manufacturer and retailer specifications plus independent UK review data rather than hands-on testing by Airmestra. Product prices and availability can change. Airmestra may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through affiliate links at no extra cost to you.