Filtrete AC Furnace Air Filter

I had used an off-brand Merv 8 filter for years and was told by my HVAC company that it would be sufficient for my home (just under 1600 SF). I changed the Merv 8 every 2 months (though they were rated for 3), dating each filter before I put it in and though I was changing them a little early, I was always surprised at how little difference was between the old and the new filter. Well, needing a reminder, I had apparently deleted (rather than "completing" it) the one I had set up on my phone and ultimately realized that my last Merv 8 filter had been in for 6 months! When I changed it, I was surprised at how "not dirty" it was. On 4/1/25, I installed my first Merv 11 having read that they were the better choice. Though it wasn't scheduled to be replaced until 6/1/25, during Spring cleaning I checked on the new filter to see what it looked like and the photo attached is what I saw after only 21 days. My jaw hit the floor! The photo could be better but this is how the used vs the new compare. When I think what the air quality inside my home must have been before Filtrete's Merv 11 filter, I shudder. Buy one and test it then put it on subscription!