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A good fan improves airflow, pulls in fresh air, and provides energy-efficient relief from heat.
We've spent years researching and testing the most impressive floor, table, window, pedestal, and tower-styled fans. Our testing experts broke out all their logging devices to take accurate readings of each fan's power, noise, and energy consumption, all at a standard setting to properly compare each type of fan. You can rest assured knowing we have done all the testing for you so you can enjoy your day without breaking a sweat.
Our favorite tower fan is the Dreo Cruiser Pro T1. It performed well across the board, producing a powerful airflow while keeping the noise down. If you're interested in a floor fan, we also love the robust airflow of the Lasko B-Air Firtana-20X Multipurpose High Velocity, though it's noticeably louder. Or, if you want a small tabletop model, the compact Honeywell Kaz HT-904 Air-Circulator is a great little fan that won't break the bank.
If you are shopping for a specific style, check out our other reviews to see our favorite tower fans, window fans, or table fans. If it's truly cold air you seek, take a peek at our air conditioner review.
Editor's Note: On May 3, 2025, we reorganized the award suggestions to make them more helpful.
Who it is best for: The Dreo Cruiser Pro T1 is perfect for those who want the best of both worlds: effective airflow without making a fan the room's focal point. Its tall, narrow profile offers a discreet footprint that suits smaller spaces, offices, and anyone looking to avoid the visual bulk of traditional fans. It's especially effective in long halls and corridors, and despite tower fans generally lacking brute force, the Cruiser Pro T1 freshens up a room better than most.
Why we love it: We're big fans of power and circulation, with subtle interface perks that make it pleasant to use. Austin Palmer, who led the testing, said, “It gets lots of circulation around the room; I could feel a strong breeze from over 60 feet away.” It scored among the highest in our category for air thrust, thanks to a six-speed range and four operating modes. While it's not the most discreet fan in terms of sound, one tester noted, “In my testing, I found it was more powerful than other fans while being quieter.” Night mode also eliminates annoying beeps, helping it fit seamlessly into home or office use.
Should you buy it? If you can handle a little background noise, this is one of our favorite tower fans and a great fit for most homes and offices. It's quieter than others at similar power levels, though not the quietest we tested. When cranked up, the fan's motor and blades are audible, but our lead tester noted, “I didn't observe any standout noises such as beeps, clicks, or ticks.” While it may not suit the most noise-sensitive users, its strong performance and thoughtful design make it a smart buy for most people looking to upgrade their space with efficient, adjustable airflow.
Who it is best for: The Lasko B-Air Firtana-20X Multipurpose High Velocity is ideal for anyone who needs serious airflow, whether for a large room, garage, or workshop. With an average output of 1350.5 CFM, it's especially effective in expansive spaces that standard fans can't touch. If you're prioritizing power over silence, this is a top pick. It's also a great option for users who value easy maintenance; as tester Austin noted, “this is one of the easiest fans to clean that I've tested.”
Why we love it: This stood out in our power and circulation tests, significantly outperforming its closest competitors. It delivers a concentrated blast of air that testers described as room-transforming—"As far as looks go, the room is bumping." Its high thrust readings and 360º rotation make it highly versatile, allowing you to aim airflow exactly where needed. One tester summed it up well: “The 360º rotation capability lets me precisely direct airflow to whatever angle I want.” For raw power and directional control, it's among the best we've seen.
Should you buy it? If powerful airflow is your top priority and you don't mind a bit of extra noise or energy use, it is hard to beat. Additionally, its small control dial and high volume may not suit everyone. However, if you're outfitting a workshop, garage, or large living space where noise isn't a concern, this fan remains a tester favorite. One reviewer said, “I think this is the top choice for individuals prioritizing powerful airflow.”
The Firtana-20X brings a refreshing breeze to any environment with its remarkable power and ability to rotate 360º, ideal for spacious living areas or workshops.
Light brightness adjustment available only when the fan is running
Initial start-up in high mode
Disruptive button beeps
Who it is best for: The Bionaire Premium Digital 8.5" Twin is ideal for users who value quiet operation, ease of use, and precise control over raw power. It's especially suitable for bedrooms, home offices, or any space where minimal noise is important. The vertical stand option adds flexibility for room placement, and it's a smart pick for energy-conscious buyers.
Why we love it: This fan's combination of smart features and ease of use sets it apart. The single-degree temperature adjustment and intuitive interface made a big impression on our tester, who said, “I used that control to customize settings to my preferences effortlessly.” It comes with a remote control, allowing for hands-free adjustments, and the installation process was rated above average compared to other fans we tested. One of its most standout qualities is how quiet it runs, even at top speed. “I did not note any odd noises, and I appreciated that the fan operates quietly, even at a maximum speed,” our tester noted.
Should you buy it? This is a compelling choice if you're seeking a quiet, energy-efficient fan with thoughtful controls and don't need industrial-strength airflow. It's not the most powerful fan in our tests, but it still delivered above-average circulation and cooling. Downsides include its brief tendency to start on high before adjusting to the set level, and you can only change the light brightness while the fan is on. Also, “the audible beeps accompanying button presses were annoying,” said our lead tester. Still, these quirks are minor when weighed against the overall convenience, quiet, and functionality it delivers.
Who it is best for: The Pelonis Silent Turbo is an excellent choice for light sleepers, nurseries, and quiet spaces where ambient noise is a concern but some airflow is still needed. It's ideal for overnight use with ultra-quiet performance—"We were only able to hear the fan when we stood right next to it"—and a gradually slowing “sleep” mode. Our tester said, “I think it could also be a good option to use in a nursery or kids' room during nap time.”
Why we love it: It blends modern features with quiet comfort. It gives users excellent flexibility with 12 speeds and four operation modes (normal, sleep, natural, and silent). It includes a remote control, a sturdy base, and an adjustable timer (30 minutes to 12 hours), which makes it easy to integrate into any routine. One standout feature is its memory recall—"This fan remembers the last used settings, which helped me avoid any frustration with resetting the fan every time it turns on." These thoughtful conveniences elevate the experience.
Should you buy it? It is a strong buy if you prioritize quiet airflow and modern features over raw power. While its maximum airflow is not the highest and the speed differences are minor, it's more about maintaining a peaceful environment than blasting a room with air. The only real drawbacks were the loud beeps when adjusting settings and its limited top-end power. But for everyday use in quieter environments, this fan delivers reliable comfort and smart features in a well-built package.
Who it is best for: The Honeywell Kaz HT-904 Air-Circulator is ideal for personal cooling in small spaces like home offices, window corners, or desktops. Its compact size, 6-foot cord, and wall-mounting option make it a versatile pick for anyone who needs a portable fan with multiple placement options. Our lead tester summed it up well: “I love the small size and different mounting options. It's relevant to the versatility of this fan.”
Why we love it: Despite its small footprint, it delivers impressive airflow, which surprised even our testers. “I was very impressed with its airflow output, which I could feel from across the room.” Its 90º vertical tilt allows you to customize the airflow direction easily, and the simple three-speed settings (ranging from 4.3 to 6.4 mph) cover most personal cooling needs. It's also lightweight and easy to move, making it a convenient option for multi-room use or repositioning on the fly.
Should you buy it? This is a great option if you're looking for a small but effective personal fan and don't need oscillation. It does have a few downsides: it lacks an oscillating feature, and on high, it's louder than some comparable models. The wall-mounting feature is a bonus, but reversing airflow direction once mounted can be clunky—"I found it cumbersome to unmount the fan, flip it 180º, and then remount it."
Who it is best for: The Levoit Classic 36" is a strong pick for budget-conscious buyers who prioritize quiet operation, energy efficiency, and easy maintenance over brute airflow power. It's ideal for people who want light air movement in a bedroom, living room, or workspace without the disruption of noise or the hassle of regular deep cleaning. If you typically use low to medium fan settings and value cost savings over time, this fan fits the bill nicely.
Why we love it: It impressed us with its effective room-wide circulation, excellent energy efficiency, and ease of cleaning. During testing, we observed excellent movement across the room—"I observed air movement reaching every corner of the room in our testing by watching the fringe decorations jostling around." It maintained a tranquil atmosphere with a low 47.5 dBa reading, and our lead reviewer noted, “I found it very easy to access the interior of this fan.” The grille and propeller are simple to disassemble and clean, making it one of the easiest fans to maintain in the entire lineup.
Should you buy it? If raw power or air intake is your top priority, this may fall short. “This isn't the fan I would choose to pull in cool air from across the room or down a long hallway,” our tester said. But this is a standout for users less concerned with maximum airflow, and more interested in a quiet, energy-saving fan that's easy to clean and affordable up front.
The remote for the Levoit Classic 36" allows you to swap through the fan's many settings from a distance.
Who it is best for: If you want maximum power at minimum cost, the Pelonis 40" PSF40T2ABB is for you. It's ideal for people who prioritize airflow and value over bells and whistles. Sure, other fans have a higher output, but they'll cost you more. When it comes down to it, the difference in output is pretty small compared to other top scorers, so if you need something basic and effective to cool down a room, then the Pelonis fits the bill.
Why we love it: It has exceptional power and air circulation capabilities, providing significant airflow to cool down rooms effectively without breaking the bank. Its ability to distribute air evenly throughout the room, reaching most of our fringe areas, ensures this fan can get the job done. Our review team calls it “a standout choice for quickly cooling down muggy rooms.” Cleaning access is another plus—though it requires a few extra screws, you're granted full access to internal components, helping with preventative care and long-term sustainability.
Should you buy it? As you might expect from a fan in this price range, features are slightly pared down, but that might not be bad. “With three basic settings, there's no constant adjusting and readjusting to get things just right,” wrote our lead tester. The fan performed well in our most heavily weighted metrics, but the interface has a few downsides, such as the lack of features like muted button sounds, resulting in disruptive beeps with every press. One tester said, “I wish the remote had a designated storage area. Without it, there's a higher risk I'll misplace it like all my other remotes.”
With just a touch of a button, this tower fan effortlessly circulates cold air to every corner of the room.
Who it is best for: The Amazon Basic HVF20-SP Industrial Fan 20" is best suited for users who need serious airflow in large or active spaces like gyms, workshops, or dance studios. If you're blasting music or dealing with sweaty equipment, this high-powered fan can clear stale air fast and keep things cool on a budget. As one tester noted, "I wouldn't want to use this fan in an area where people might be bothered by background noise"—so it's not ideal for quiet environments, but great for more rugged or energetic settings.
Why we love it: It punches well above its price point. It delivers powerful air movement and directionality thanks to adjustable knobs, allowing users to angle the fan precisely where they need it. Our lead tester said, “I found this fan particularly adaptable to the situation and needs of different users.” Other standout conveniences include a built-in cord wrap for tidy storage and the option to wall-mount the fan for a more permanent setup.
Should you buy it? This is a strong contender if you're looking for an affordable yet effective floor fan and don't mind some noise. It's not the most energy-efficient model, and doesn't provide a downward airflow when using the built-in foot. But for the price, its performance is impressive.
The Amazon Basic HVF20-SP Industrial Fan 20" is one of the more powerful floor fans we have tested.
Who it is best for: The Lasko 3300 20" Pivoting Wind Machine is ideal for those who want strong airflow without the industrial noise. It's a smart pick for large living spaces or work areas where quiet operation matters. If you're after a powerful fan that won't visually or audibly dominate a room, our tester noted, “I think the subtle design will blend into most spaces,” making it suitable for residential use, not just garages or workshops.
Why we love it: With a pivoting head that can point downward, and a large, intuitive dial, this fan combines power and usability. Its standout feature is its quiet operation—even at top speed. Our lead tester said, “I didn't notice any annoying sounds, which is more than I can say about some other models that had distracting rhythmic clicks and whirs.” That silence and competitive price point make his model a favorite for users who value comfort and peace.
Should you buy it? If you need a fan that's powerful, quiet, and easy to use, this is a compelling option—especially given its ability to direct airflow downward. However, it's bulkier than some competitors and lacks wall-mounting capability, which could be a dealbreaker for certain setups. But if quiet performance and intuitive controls top your list, this offers excellent value.
The Lasko 3300 in our visual test shows how much area the fan can cover.
Absence of temperature-based automatic shut-off feature
Unable to stand vertically
Who it is best for: The Amazon Basics Manual 9" Twin is perfect for those looking for a simple, budget-friendly window fan that gets the job done without bells and whistles. If you're working with limited space or prefer a no-frills fan that's easy to install and operate, this fan is a solid choice. It suits smaller spaces or individuals who prioritize quiet operation without complicated features.
Why we love it: We appreciate the Amazon Basics Manual's practicality, ease of use, and affordability. It's a quiet option for daily use, especially for those who need to cool a room without the distraction of loud noise. The fan's simple 2-speed settings, easy installation, and flexible placement options were highlights. As Ain Palmer noted, “This fan is one of the easiest to install. I only needed a few seconds to do it.” It's a great option for anyone looking for a straightforward solution to cooling.
Should you buy it? If you're on a budget and need a basic, effective fan, the Amazon Basics Manual 9" Twin delivers. While it lacks advanced features, like an automatic temperature shut-off or vertical standing capability, it's reliable and performs well in most areas. Still, for the price, it's a solid choice for those who want simplicity and efficiency.
The view from the inside one of our testing contraptions. Here, we measure how many cubic feet per minute (CFM) the Amazon Basics Manual 9" Twin can move.
Who it is best for: The Genesis 6-inch Clip is ideal for anyone needing a small, portable fan perfect for desks, headboards, or small spaces like dorm rooms. Its two stand options—clip or freestanding base—make it highly adaptable for different environments. This model is a great choice if you value portability and need a quiet and unobtrusive fan.
Why we love it: It offers two speeds and minimal noise and vibration. Its clip and freestanding base options make it easy to place just here. Our testers noted its quiet operation, even on high, and its ability to cool down small areas without being disruptive. As one tester shared, “It created sufficient airflow to cool me down, but it is quiet and inconspicuous enough to use while I share a space with others who may not want to feel the breeze.” Its portability and affordable price make it a solid option for those with limited space.
Should you buy it? While it offers great portability and ease of use, it has some limitations. The tabletop stand isn't as sturdy as we'd like, and the clip's pivot range is limited to 130°, which might restrict airflow direction. The Genesis is a fantastic value for those on a budget or needing a compact fan for small spaces.
Estimated Cost on High; 12 hours a day for 90 days
$5.08
Who it is best for: The Dreo Smart CF714S is ideal for those seeking a compact, energy-efficient fan with advanced features and minimal noise. Its whisper-quiet operation makes it an excellent choice for bedrooms, offices, or any space where quietness is key. If you value user-friendly tech features, such as remote control and app integration, this fan will enhance your cooling experience. It's a great option for people who want power without the noise of traditional high-velocity fans.
Why we love it: It has an outstanding feature set, including vertical and horizontal oscillation (90° and 120°), a remote control, and app integration, allowing convenient, customizable airflow. Tester Austin Palmer noted that even at high speeds, the fan emitted “kind of a whoosh noise,” but there were “no annoying or weird sounds.” Its quiet operation, registering only 40 dBA on the lowest setting, allows it to blend seamlessly into any room. Additionally, the fan is energy-efficient.
Should you buy it? It offers a powerful, smart solution, but may struggle to circulate air in large rooms effectively. Additionally, the digital screen's visibility could be an issue depending on where you place the fan. While it boasts impressive features, its power may fall short compared to larger models. However, for those who need a compact fan for a small to medium-sized room, it is an excellent choice with a high-tech edge.
The Dreo Smart fan is packed with useful features, making it one of our top recommendations.
Who it is best for: The Air King 9166F 20" Whole House is perfect for households needing powerful, efficient whole-house ventilation. With its impressive air circulation capabilities, it's especially suited for larger homes or those requiring rapid changes in air temperature. This is an excellent choice if you need significant airflow to move air across multiple rooms without purchasing multiple fans.
Why we love it: It provides immense airflow, ensuring home comfort. As one tester noted, “It excels at circulating air throughout an entire house. I experienced consistent airflow and optimal comfort in every room.” Despite its power, it is also one of the easiest fans to clean, making it ideal for environments where outdoor air pollutants like pollen and dust are a concern. The easy-to-use power dial is another feature we appreciated for seamless operation.
Should you buy it? While it is a powerhouse, it does come with a few trade-offs. It is quite noisy, with noise levels reaching 66.7 dBA on high, which may be disruptive in quieter environments. The installation process can also be challenging, particularly due to the fan's weight. However, this remains a top contender for those needing a fan to deliver serious circulation power.
The Air King 9166F 20" Whole House working wonders on our thrust machine.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
How We Tested
This review results from years spent testing the full spectrum of fans. We extensively researched every model and, as a result, purchased over 40 of the most promising contenders. Each of these has been put through a series of rigorous tests. We tested these in our gyms, offices, homes, and state-of-the-art testing facility to see which ones truly held up. Each fan was compared side by side to bring you a clear guide of the best of the best.
Our in-house testing team puts each fan through a rigorous set of testing metrics to give you the full picture of each product's output and how they compare to each other.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
Our in-house testing team rejuvenated our test plans to examine this category more critically. As a result, we have built rigs, scoured a full room with fringe, and built chambers to collect all the necessary data. Power combined with circulation is the bread and butter of these machines. One without the other isn't a beneficial appliance in your house, so we looked at both aspects. We dissected a room by hanging fringe at different distances and heights. By doing this, we could visually see circulation patterns to help us determine if each machine could properly move air throughout an entire room. We constructed a thrust machine to measure the sheer propulsion power and built a makeshift chamber to find the fan's ability to transport air. All this to say, we have you covered when gathering the correct data to help you make decisions. We share our findings through our metric ratings, giving you a breakdown of all our results.
Our lead tester setting up for circulation tests.
Credit: Austin Palmer
We didn't stop there; other factors can make or break your experience. A sputter of high-pitch flapping from blades can be off-putting to the user. We took a standard sound pressure level (SPL) reading at each level while noting any unusual characteristics that stood out during testing. This thorough assessment helps to eliminate any concerns about the noise output of these machines. Other factors we tackled included cleaning, installation, transportation, and the user interface. We also broke out the calculators to give you an estimate of the operating costs to factor into your financials.
Why Trust GearLab
Our testing team is comprised of Maggie Nichols, Jessica Riconscente, Becca Glades, and Austin Palmer. Maggie has spent countless years living and working in some of the hottest parts of the world. From conducting research in West Africa to teaching in the Amazon rainforest, she is no stranger to stifling days. After earning her Bachelor's degree in Industrial Technology, Jessica spent years exploring the warmest parts of the southern hemisphere. Her product development background brings a keen eye when testing products. Becca Glades spent her childhood in Southern New Mexico, where the hottest days seem to last a lifetime.
Austin Palmer, our Senior Review Analyst, is a seasoned electronics specialist, dedicating his workweek to evaluating tech products and establishing himself as a credible authority in the field. Over the past eight years, he has consistently led the testing of a diverse range of products, ranging from VR headsets to gaming mice. With meticulous attention to detail and a profound understanding of electronic devices, Austin excels in creating testing regimens that uncover the true capabilities of any tech product. However, what truly distinguishes him is his extensive expertise in temperature regulation. With experience in testing air conditioning and portable heaters, Austin possesses invaluable knowledge of airflow dynamics and temperature control. This wealth of experience enables him to provide insightful evaluations of window fans, ensuring consumers make informed purchasing decisions and find the most suitable and reliable option for their needs. That said, this team of testers never underestimates how important a good, reliable fan can be.
After extensive testing, we deconstructed each fan to properly clean and make notes of the experience.
We used an anemometer to find the air volume each fan can transfer.
Our thrust rig measures the sheer propulsion power of each machine.
How to Pick the Best Fan
Fans come in all shapes and sizes. It can be overwhelming when searching for your perfect cooling source when there's a wide selection on the market. Below is a guide to help you determine which fan is best for your needs. Please consider each type's benefits and drawbacks, as they're specifically designed to tackle different objectives.
Tower Fan
Tower fans are tall, narrow units that typically have a wide assortment of features. Most include a timer, remote control, and adjustable speeds. Today, there are even apps that allow you to set a schedule while you're away so that when you arrive home, you'll arrive in comfort. The minimal footprint allows them to fit easily in most spaces. Tower fans typically oscillate, whereas many other types don't. This feature increases the airflow area, reaching more of the room. However, the height of these fans doesn't adjust, limiting their ability to tackle high ceilings. Given their height, they are often not as sturdy as other types. We have an extensive tower fan review that gives you a larger selection to consider. Below are the overall scores from that selection.
Floor Fan
Floor fans are simple units with an impressive amount of power. These fans almost always rotate up and down but rarely oscillate. However, their lightweight, compact nature means they can easily be pivoted. They are among the sturdiest, with a low center of gravity and a wide base. They typically include multiple speeds but lack advanced modes and features. Though noisy, floor fans move a notable amount of air. They are great for gyms or rooms where a bit of background noise is welcome. Below are the rankings from our floor fan review.
Window Fan
Window fans are ideal for circulating fresh air into a room. They are available in many different sizes with varying power. Most notably, they bring outside air in, a feature that almost all others don't have. They aren't particularly useful without a window, so you'll want to ensure the room you're trying to ventilate has an appropriately sized window. Though it is possible, you probably won't be moving this fan around. Aside from the placement, these fans typically have a range of features, including temperature control, remotes, and timers. Our window fan review takes the top products on the market to test side-by-side. Our results are below, which show which products rose to the top.
Table Fan
Table fans are fairly small and simple fans that are best for desktops or nightstands. They don't have the most advanced features, but many include unique designs that give them a small footprint. Some even come with clips to secure them to the side of a table. Table fans are best suited for individual use as they aren't the most powerful. You wouldn't want to rely on them to cool an entire room. However, a table fan might be best if you seek a cool breeze at your desk or bed. Additionally, these units tend to be more financially feasible.
This is what we look for in a great table fan: the Honeywell HT-904 has a low center of gravity and a wide base, helping it be stable wherever it sits.
Credit: Laura Casner
Pedestal Fan
Pedestal fans have the classic style of upright units; however, most are updated with modern features. Many include remotes, timers, variable breezes, and multiple speeds. These fans often oscillate and do a great job of moving air around. They did about average in our noise tests, but their top-heavy design makes them less stable than most others.
One of the tallest fans we tested, this Pelonis model also offers fairly high power on all speeds - if you're okay with its louder-than-average whirring.
Credit: Maggie Brandenburg
How Loud Can Fans Get?
Each fan is going to make some level of noise. Some are louder than others. If you are sensitive to sounds, it is worth looking for a model that did well in our noise tests. A handful of models include a “quiet” setting, which is barely detectable. Many of these sacrifice airflow power for a lower noise level. However, the more powerful fans can be set further away from the user, making the perceived noise quieter. While we are mostly concerned about the airflow noise, we also noted which fans had a particularly annoying “beep” when changing settings.
We've included decibel readings from three types of fans to show how they compare to each other. Every step up on the graph indicates an increase in power setting.
Credit: Austin Palmer
What Advance Features Will You Want?
While most have some options, a handful include advanced features. Among these are timers of various lengths, remote controls, and modes. For those interested, you can program your fan to shut off after a certain time or select a mode that gradually shuts off within a certain timeframe. A handful of these models even have a mobile app that can be used to control the machine. These advanced features come at a higher price point, although it might be worth the investment to minimize your effort to adjust settings.
A handful of fans now include mobile apps to help keep you in control of the breeze.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Where Will The Fan Be Placed?
The size is worth considering, depending on where you put your new fan. A large fan might be overkill if you want to ventilate a small office or room. In contrast, a larger space or gym will likely require more than a simple clip fan. If you decide on a top-heavy pedestal or tower fan, it is worth noting where this will be placed. These fans are often less stable and shouldn't be in an area where they could easily be knocked over by kids or pets playing. Before making a purchase, note the space where you'll be putting the cooling unit. Knowing where it will be placed will help you purchase the best fan.
Location is essential when choosing a fan.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Conclusion
We spent countless hours testing all kinds of fans, from tower and tabletop models to floor and window units. We thoroughly investigated each model in every category and selected the best options to test and present. We hope this guide makes it easier to select a new fan to keep you cool on the hottest of s.
Searching for a fan that perfectly suits your needs? This comprehensive review will help you find that perfect fan.
Credit: Natalie Kafader
—Austin Palmer, Becca Glades, Jared Eastlick, Jessica Riconscente, and Maggie Nichols.
