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N95 and KN95 masks have equivalent protection levels and the same filtration efficiency, with both achieving a filtration efficiency of ≥95% for non-oil-based particles.

The key difference between N95 and KN95 masks lies in their testing and implementation standards.

N95 masks are certified to the U.S. NIOSH (National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health) standard, following the interpretive guidelines of CFR 42-84-1995. The "N95" designation means the mask has a filtration efficiency of no less than 95% for solid and water-based aerosols (oil-intolerant) — i.e., the percentage of particles removed from the air.

KN95 masks adhere to China’s national standard, defined in GB 2626-2019 (the previous standard GB 2626-2006 was officially replaced by the new standard on July 1, 2020).

Other Common Mask Standards

JIS T 8151-2018: Japan’s national standard, with common models including DS1, DS2, and DS3.

KF Series: South Korea’s national standard, with common models such as KF80, KF94, and KF99.

EN 149-2001: Europe’s standard, with common models in the FFP series (FFP1, FFP2, FFP3).

The number in each model name indicates protection capability — the larger the number, the higher the protection level.

Filtration Efficiency Ranking (From Highest to Lowest)

      For non-oil-based particles, the filtration efficiency (protection capability) of different models is ranked as follows:

      N100 = KN100 > N99 = FFP3 > N95 = KN95 ≈ FFP2 > KN90 > FFP1

Note: "N95" is not a specific product name. Any mask that meets the N95 standard and passes NIOSH review can be called an "N95-type  mask." Masks with different standards only vary in their certification bodies and originating countries.

Important Notes

A mask package labeled "bacterial filtration ≥95%" does not equate to "N95 protection level."

A mask’s model name has no direct connection to its performance, and the stamp on the mask is not a standard for judging its performance.

There is no such thing as a "3M standard mask." 3M is just a mask brand — not all 3M masks meet the N95 protection level.

When selecting a mask, focus directly on its implementation standard. Any mask that meets one of the above national certification standards can be purchased with confidence, and you can choose the type that suits your needs.