Summer is heating up. These fans can help keep you cool. (Dreo)
These days, scorching temperatures feel less like breaking news and more like the unwelcome new normal — and if your bedroom feels more like a sauna than a sanctuary at night, you’re not alone. If AC isn’t an option (or your energy bill is giving you heart palpitations), finding the best cooling fan is crucial.
Sleep researchers aren’t just being particular when they suggest keeping your bedroom temperature between 60°F and 67°F — your body genuinely sleeps better in cooler conditions. That's why, when the temperature rises, the right fan can make all the difference. "A fan helps move air around the room, which can make you feel cooler and more comfortable while sleeping," explains Sosha Lewis, certified sleep science coach at Mattress Clarity. "Air circulation also helps with ventilation, especially if your room gets stuffy or if you don't want to open windows." On top of that, a fan can also provide consistent sound similar to a white noise machine, which has been shown to help sleep, adds Natalie Barnett, PhD, VP of clinical research at Nanit Lab.
But not all fans and air blowers are created equal. With options including desk, tower, window and oscillating models — plus fancy high-tech features like app connectivity and built-in air purification — choosing the right one can feel anything but easy breezy. To help you out, we consulted sleep and HVAC experts, then tested a handful of the top-rated fans, evaluating them on noise, energy use, cooling power, special features and value for money. Read on for our picks of the best cooling fans to beat the heat — and finally get some rest.
Update, July 23, 2025: We checked all product prices and availability. Our No. 1 pick for the best cooling fan remains unchanged.
Type: Smart tower fan | Oscillating: Yes | Speed settings: 12 | Noise level: 25 decibels | Dimensions: 2.76" D x 12.76" W x 42.52" H
The Dreo Tower Fan landed our best overall spot by striking that sweet spot between sophisticated technology and reliable cooling performance.
What immediately sets this fan apart is its adaptability. With 12 speed settings, four distinct modes and customizable oscillation angles from 30 to 120 degrees, it reads the room perfectly. And, rather impressively, the fan's smart temperature sensing automatically adjusts speeds as conditions change. I'd go to bed with it running at full blast during those sticky summer nights, only to wake up to find it had intelligently scaled back as the room naturally cooled — no middle-of-the-night wake-ups from an overzealous fan.
The real game changer is its intuitive intelligence that doesn't require a computer science degree to appreciate. The Dreo app allows you to pre-cool your space during your commute home, while compatibility with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant enables you to adjust settings without leaving your cozy spot on the couch.
"What sets this fan apart is its integration with smart home systems," says Amy Wampler, CEO of Spartan Mechanical, an HVAC contractor. Most importantly, it does its job: "It has quite a strong airflow, which makes it suitable for large rooms as well. On top of that, its sleek design fits perfectly into modern aesthetics," Wampler adds.
Type: Oscillating tower fan | Oscillating: Yes | Speed settings: 3 | Noise level: Decibels not provided | Dimensions: 11.8" D x 11.8" W x 39.88" H
Great cooling shouldn't require a second mortgage, and our best budget pick — the Pelonis tower fan — proves that point beautifully. While some other fans command premium prices, this budget-friendly option delivers remarkable performance at a fraction of the cost.
What makes this such a smart buy is how little you sacrifice for the savings. You still get multiple speed settings, oscillation coverage and a programmable timer that prevents those "Did I leave the fan on?" moments when you're already halfway to work. The slim profile fits easily into cramped spaces, so it's perfect for studio apartments or dorm rooms where every square inch counts.
If there's one word to describe this Pelonis model, it would be "reliable" — it runs consistently and efficiently at a palatable price point. "It doesn't have any fancy features but offers robust oscillation along with multiple speed settings and a programmable timer, which should satisfy most needs without unnecessary bells and whistles," says Wampler.
Type: Smart tower floor fan | Oscillating: Yes | Speed settings: 5 | Noise level: 26-59 decibels | Dimensions: 3.3" D x 11.81" W x 39.55" H
Sometimes the best products are the ones that simply deliver on their promises without unnecessary drama. The Vornado ARA Oscillating Tower Fan, our top pick for tower fans, embodies this philosophy perfectly by efficiently cooling spaces while incorporating a thoughtful bonus feature — an unexpectedly useful ambient lighting feature. Those late-night bathroom runs become infinitely more civilized when you're not stubbing your toe in complete darkness.
Performance-wise, this fan delivers the reliable airflow Vornado is known for. Five speed settings, paired with an energy-efficient DC motor, help keep your room and your summer energy bills cool. Dual oscillation options ensure you can enjoy comprehensive airflow. The whisper-quiet lowest setting makes it bedroom-friendly, though the top speed does get noticeably louder — a fair trade-off for the powerful cooling it provides.
The intuitive remote control seals the deal, allowing you to fine-tune oscillation and speed without having to abandon your perfectly positioned sweet spot on the couch during those sweltering summer evenings.
Vornado is known for delivering powerful airflow, and this model doesn't disappoint. "What really changes the game here is the ambient light feature — it creates a soothing atmosphere, especially in evenings! The oscillation covers a wide area while the remote control adds convenience, making this fan great both functionally and aesthetically," says Wampler.
Type: Tabletop air circulator fan | Oscillating: No | Speed settings: 3 | Noise level: 30 decibels | Dimensions: 7.6" D x 14.8" W x 14.1" H
Does it have smart controls? Nope. Does it have app connectivity? Not a chance. Does it have multiple oscillation patterns? Absolutely not. And that's exactly why our no-frills pick — the Amazon Basics Fan — has earned a spot in my guest bedroom for the past few months.
This lightweight 4-pound fan strips away all the bells and whistles to focus on what actually matters: moving air effectively. The 90-degree tilt adjustment and three speed settings provide just enough control without overwhelming anyone who just wants a fan that works.
At 30 decibels, it's pretty quiet, and the sturdy, durable build means it has reliable performance. While it's not fancy by any means, the modern black design looks decent enough for any room without screaming "cheap."
If you're looking for a straightforward, stripped-down but dependable fan that won't drain your wallet, this Amazon Basics model delivers exactly what it promises. As one happy Amazon reviewer sums it up, "Small. Attractive. Effective. Portable. Great Choice."
Type: Oscillating tower fan | Oscillating: Yes | Speed settings: 3 | Noise level: 64 decibels | Dimensions: 4.3" D x 7.5" W x 39.6" H
It's sleek. It's sexy. It's probably the most attractive fan I've ever seen. But the Dyson AM07 earned our top pick for large spaces by delivering where it matters most — serious cooling power without the noise penalty you'll often find with high-performance fans.
What impressed me was how this bladeless fan could move vast volumes of air — a whopping 500 liters per second — reaching every corner of my large open-plan living area and kitchen. Unlike some tower fans that excel at spot cooling but fail miserably in larger spaces, the AM07 delivers whole-room performance thanks to the brand's specialized Air Multiplier technology. It uses the principles of turbochargers and jet engines to amplify airflow up to 15 times.
I was also surprised by the low noise level. No, it's not whisper-quiet, but it's pretty low-level, especially when you consider how hard this thing works. Additionally, the remote control is extremely convenient when you want to adjust settings without disturbing the sleeping dog on your lap. I honestly don't think I'd ever buy a fan without one in the future.
Sure, it's priced well above most fans, but the outstanding cooling power and premium build could make this a worthwhile investment, especially if you're living in an open-plan space that demands serious airflow.
Type: Oscillating smart air purifier tower fan | Oscillating: Yes | Speed settings: 12 | Noise level: 25 decibels | Dimensions: 11.02" D x 11.02" W x 46.46" H
Our top two-in-one choice, the Dreo Air Purifier Tower Fan, tackles the issue of cramped living spaces by combining two essential appliances into one sleek (albeit substantial) unit.
If you're juggling limited square footage with the need for both clean air and cooling comfort, this fan is a boon. Instead of playing appliance Tetris with separate tower fans and air purifiers, you get both functions in a single device. And it performs each job well. The HEPA filtration system effectively tackles allergens and pollutants, particularly valuable for city dwellers who face challenges such as dust, cooking odors and poor urban air quality.
Given that I do a lot of cooking at home and live in a high-traffic urban environment with lots of dust and allergens, it's particularly important to me to have an air purifier in my apartment. "Its HEPA filter captures allergens and pollutants, making it perfect for allergy sufferers," says Wampler, highlighting the benefits for air quality.
As a cooling device, the Dreo delivers impressive performance with quiet operation, creating a pleasant breeze even on the most oppressive summer days. The smart app controls enable you to operate the air purifier and fan independently, while functional features like timer settings and sleep mode provide practical convenience for daily use.
But for anyone in a small space, it's impossible to ignore how large the unit is, to the point where it can seem intrusive. Not to mention its nearly $300 price tag. While it's a great fan, and a great value considering all it's capable of, these two factors prevented it from taking the top spot.
Type: Outdoor pedestal fan | Oscillating: Yes | Speed settings: 3 | Noise level: 35 decibels on low, varies depending on speed | Dimensions: 8.46" D x 25.59" W x 26.18" H
Most fans wilt at the first sign of weather, but the Rowenta Extreme Outdoor Fan laughs in the face of damp and dusty conditions. This weather-resistant powerhouse is built to withstand whatever Mother Nature throws its way, making it our top choice for outdoor use. It's great for setting up next to a hammock on days when a late-afternoon siesta sounds enticing. And because it's weather-resistant, even if you leave it outside by mistake, you don't have to worry about a little dust or rain ruining your investment.
During testing in sweltering garage organization sessions and humid grilling marathons, this fan created genuinely comfortable microclimates that made outdoor activities bearable again. Even after multiple surprise rain showers, it continued to perform like a champ.
With three fan speeds and three cooling modes, as well as four different timer settings, an LED digital display and auto on-off functions, this feels like several fans in one, making it a great value. It's also easy to move between spaces, with the integrated cord holder helpful for portability.
For anyone who has ever abandoned outdoor projects due to oppressive heat or wished they could enjoy their patio during peak summer, this beast of a fan transforms your outdoor space experience. "Its weather-resistant build ensures durability, while powerful airflow can cut through even the hottest days. It's best suited for patios or decks where other fans might not hold up as well," says Wampler.
Type: Desktop fan | Oscillating: Yes | Speed settings: 12 | Noise level: 26 decibels on low | Dimensions: 8" D x 9.8" W x 12.25" H
Don't let the compact size fool you — this little fan is a desktop wonder. The Lasko Whirlwind earned our top desktop pick by delivering features typically reserved for full-size tower fans, all while fitting perfectly on a table or nightstand.
I was skeptical about how much cooling a sub-3-pound fan could deliver. Turns out, it's quite a lot! I popped the fan on my somewhat cramped office desk, expecting basic airflow, but this thing has moves I didn't know fans could pull off with an orbital motion that swirls air around effectively.
The 12 speed settings allow you to go from barely there whisper to full-on business! I keep it on lower speeds during calls, then crank it to eight or higher when I need serious cooling. It's worth noting, though, that in some positions, the whirring noise is more noticeable.
I also loved that the remote works perfectly from across the room, unlike cheaper fan remotes that require precise aiming and a bit of luck. The "dark mode" is also valuable for bedroom use, as it turns off all the LED lights, allowing you to rest.
One five-star Walmart reviewer says, "Excellent fan, small, quiet and very powerful. It is a great little fan that blows very strong air." I agree that it's a solid option.
With numerous fan styles available on the market, understanding the differences can help you select the ideal cooling solution for your space, lifestyle and budget.
Desk fans (or bedside fans): These compact, portable fans deliver targeted "spot cooling" directly where you need it most. While they won't cool down an entire room like larger models, they're perfect for personal cooling at your workspace or bedside, without taking up valuable floor space.
Pedestal fans: The classic fan design most people recognize, featuring adjustable height and powerful airflow at specific levels. They excel at creating room-wide breezes but can be top-heavy and potentially unstable around curious kids or pets.
Tower fans: Sleek, vertical designs that blend seamlessly into modern decor while delivering multilevel cooling throughout their tall, narrow frame. Though sometimes less powerful than pedestal fans, they're excellent space savers that cool from floor to ceiling.
Box fans: These square, retro-style workhorses sit directly on the floor and pack surprising power into their compact design. They're budget-friendly and effective but tend to run louder than more modern alternatives.
Ceiling fans: The permanent cooling solution for rooms with limited floor space. Their large blades and fixed mounting make them ideal for circulating air throughout bigger spaces, though they require installation and can't be moved between rooms.
Floor fans: Essentially desktop fans sized up for floor placement, these round, blade-driven fans offer powerful, focused cooling. Like box fans, they deliver impressive airflow but can be quite noisy during operation.
Choosing the right fan involves more than just selecting the most attractive option or the one with the lowest price. The best cooling fan for your needs depends on several key factors that can make the difference between blissful comfort and buyer's remorse:
Cooling power: The CFM (cubic feet per minute) rating tells you how much air the fan moves. "This is an indicator of how strong the airflow is. The higher the CFM, the better it will cool larger areas," says Wampler.
Coverage area: Consider where and how the fan will distribute air throughout your space. "Tower fans have a wider oscillation, which works well in living rooms," says Wampler. The size of your room and ceiling height will influence which fan type works best for comprehensive coverage.
Noise level: This factor becomes crucial for bedroom use! "Anything under 50 decibels should be quiet enough for bedrooms or offices," Wampler explains. Above 50 decibels? Save it for garages or outdoor spaces. Lewis adds: "Look for fans that don't make clicking or rattling sounds and offer a low-speed setting that still moves enough air to keep you comfortable."
Sleep-friendly features: For bedroom use, consider extras that enhance sleep quality. "Some people prefer fans with built-in timers or white noise features, which can help with sleep quality too," notes Lewis. "It also provides steady background noise that can block out disruptions," adds Riley Otis, a certified sleep science coach at Sleepopolis.
Smart features and controls: Consider your daily usage patterns to optimize your setup. Do you want wifi connection, app control, voice control or a simple remote? How intuitive are the physical controls? Since you'll likely use your fan daily, prioritize features that match your lifestyle and tech comfort level.
Energy efficiency: Don't overlook long-term operating costs. "Energy efficiency tends to be overlooked but can save a lot on electricity bills — so look out for energy-saving modes or Energy Star certification on fans," advises Wampler. Your summer cooling bills will thank you.
Safety considerations: Evaluate potential hazards in your space. Are there exposed blades? Is the cord a tripping hazard? Does it feel stable when positioned? "Some people go for bladeless models because they're quieter and safer if you have kids or pets," suggests Otis.
Value: Balance features, performance and price to determine overall worth. The most expensive fan isn't always the best choice, nor is the cheapest always a bargain. Consider what features you'll actually use and how long you expect the fan to last.
Finding the best cooling fans required real-world testing under challenging conditions. We evaluated almost a dozen models over several sweltering weeks in New York, where temperatures consistently soared above 90°F, accompanied by oppressive humidity levels that made every day feel like a personal endurance test.
Our testing methodology was straightforward: We used these fans as our primary cooling solution in homes without air-conditioning, meaning they had to perform under pressure rather than simply complement existing climate control. We researched tower fans, desk fans, pedestal fans, oscillating models, bladeless designs and smart fans with additional features, such as built-in air purifiers.
Each fan underwent a comprehensive evaluation during both peak afternoon heat and overnight hours, when quiet, consistent cooling is essential for maintaining sleep quality. We assessed assembly ease, technical specifications, feature functionality, noise levels, energy efficiency and cooling coverage to determine which models truly delivered on their promises.
Our testing approach prioritized practical, everyday usage scenarios over laboratory conditions. We evaluated how well each fan performed in cramped spaces, how intuitive the controls felt during nighttime adjustments and whether the promised features enhanced the cooling experience or added unnecessary complexity.
The testing environment — a small New York City studio apartment without air-conditioning — provided the perfect proving ground for separating genuinely effective cooling solutions from marketing hype. When your fan is the only thing standing between you and miserable summer nights, performance matters more than promises.
The short answer is no — fans don't lower the room temperature like an air conditioner would. Instead, they create a cooling sensation through air circulation and enhanced evaporation. "This makes you feel a bit cooler because it speeds up moisture evaporating from your skin," explains Barnett.
Otis also notes, "Fans don't change the air temperature. They help your body release heat more efficiently by moving the air around, which gives you a cooling effect. The relief is real, but it's about airflow, not actual cooling like with an air conditioner."
The bottom line? While your thermometer reading won't change, the cooling sensation you experience is genuine and can significantly boost your comfort.
The answer primarily comes down to personal preference and your specific sleep needs. "Some folks swear by oscillating towers, but others prefer a fan that faces in one direction and blows gently onto the face," says Barnett.
Lewis notes that "tower fans and pedestal fans tend to be popular because they're quieter and spread airflow more evenly. Box fans can work too if noise isn't a deal-breaker."
The key factors to prioritize are quiet operation, consistent airflow and a size that fits your space comfortably. Some sleepers also prefer fans with built-in white noise features for added sleep support, says Otis. You may need to test a few different types to discover which fans work best for your sleep style.
Strategic placement makes all the difference in fan performance. Otis says to "place the fan across from a window to pull in cooler outdoor air if the weather allows. Elevate it slightly off the floor to improve air circulation throughout the room. Try angling it to bounce air off a wall rather than pointing it directly at your body, which can help with circulation and avoid cold air blowing in your face all night."
Lewis adds some practical tips: "If it's cooler outside, face the fan out a window to pull hot air out. If you're using AC, set the fan to circulate that cooler air around the room. Keep it clean and dust-free to avoid airflow blockages, and make sure it's not pointed directly at your face all night, which can cause dryness or irritation for some people."
The key is understanding airflow direction, whether you're pulling cool air in, pushing warm air out or circulating conditioned air more effectively throughout your space.
Windmill Air Circulator and Fan: This table fan is the perfect size for a desk or bedside table, and it's surprisingly powerful to boot. However, there are some reports of rattling, and the noise level increases at higher settings.
Lasko Xtra Air 48" Extended Airflow Oscillating Tower Fan: Lightweight and affordable, this tower fan offers oscillation, three fan speeds, a timer and remote control, delivering all the bells and whistles of more expensive options at a budget price. While it didn't make the top of our list due to its higher noise level and fewer speed settings, it's still a solid, good value option that keeps rooms cool.
Cuckoo Cordless Foldable Air Circulator: With 12 speed modes and adjustable height, this floor-mounted cordless and foldable fan can fit just about anywhere, from a smaller apartment to a laundry area or kitchen. This could also be a fun item to bring along on a picnic or camping trip. While it wasn't as powerful as some of the larger tower or pedestal fans we tested, it does a good job of cooling smaller spaces.
Lasko Cyclone Max 18" High-Velocity Pedestal Fan: Great fan speed and cooling level — this was a more powerful fan than we expected for its price point. It's a little loud, even at the lowest speed, so this one may not be best suited for where you're trying to work or sleep.
Natalie Barnett, PhD, VP of clinical research at Nanit Lab, New York
Sosha Lewis, certified sleep science coach at Mattress Clarity, Austin, Texas
Riley Otis, certified sleep science coach at Sleepopolis, Charlotte, N.C.
Amy Wampler, CEO of Spartan Mechanical, an HVAC contractor, Bedford, Ind.
Our health content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional on questions about your health.
