best travel fan for noise

5 Of The Best Travel Fans For White Noise + Buying Tips

Below you’ll find 5 of the best travel fans for white noise on the market along with short reviews and pros & cons lists for each.

There are also some helpful things to know and consider before spending money or picking a fan. I’d love to help you get the best fan for your needs so read on to learn more.

How does white noise from a fan help?

Fan options to shop for, important foreign travel fan tips, ★ 5 of the best travel fans for white noise ★, summary – the top recommended travel fan for white noise, what is white noise.

White noise is the term used to describe a sound production that’s made up of all frequencies in the audio band (the range you can hear) at equal levels.

“White” is used to describe this particular type while others such as brown and pink exist and describe similar noise but with different acoustical levels in certain frequency ranges.

How white noise helps

White noise helps by “masking” bothersome noise and creating a more relaxed and distraction-free environment for. Sounds you otherwise would hear are “covered” (masked) by the sound your fan generates, resulting in it effectively eliminating it. As long as the outside sound is of an equal or lesser volume than the white noise it can be blocked.

Fans can improve your quality of life using the principle of sound masking.   This means that the noise it generates simple “covers”, or masks, the sounds that cause you problems and make sleeping or concentrating more difficult.

In reality, the fan isn’t actually removing outside sounds – but for all practical purposes, our brains think it’s gone.

This is because when many sounds are combined together well (especially with noise!) our brains can’t “hear” the distractions anymore.

The result is that as long as the bothersome outside sounds aren’t able to exceed the white noise level we no longer hear them.

Sleep like a baby!

It’s a well-known fact that infants and children are able to sleep more readily with gentle sounds. For example, dishwashers, washing machines, and other sources have a pretty steady and rhythmic “pattern” that affects our brains in a pleasant way.

The psycho-acoustical effect of a soothing noise causes a pleasing and focused state in both many people’s minds and bodies. The result is better sleep as well as better concentration.

It’s especially helpful to have a fan when you travel for many adults or children sleeping in a new environment can be tough. You’re not accustomed to your surroundings and haven’t had time to adapt.

New environments mean new nuances and small sounds you’re not used to which can hurt your quality of sleep. I speak from personal experience!

How fans make white noise

“White noise”, the soothing sound produced by many fans, is produced by a number of things that happen when a fan is running. It’s generally caused by the air turbulence created by the blades but often contains the sound of the fan motor, too. When a fan run runs, the air is drawn from the rear and forced out the front which causes noise.

Fans (especially traditional ones like box fans) are an easy-to-use and economical source of noise to cover sounds, reduce stress after a hard day, and promote better sleep.

The funny thing is that fans  aren’t intentionally designed to make noise!  It’s a wonderful side effect of how they work.

There are several factors involved that result in that soothing noise we love:

• Air passing by the surfaces of the fan’s body
• The rush of air on the input (suction) and output (forward) sides
• Fan blades spinning through and disturbing the air
• Turbulence caused by the nearby air being disturbed due to blowing
• The gentle humming and operation of the motor itself

These factors combine to produce the cumulative effect as a “white noise” our ears and then brain receive. The result is rhythmic, calming, and most of all helpful sound.

As I described, this white noise is used to “mask, or cover, and effectively eliminate bothersome sounds as far as our brains are concerned.

Because of how fan work, they often have a tendency to vibrate on a very small scale which also contributes to a gentle undertone you’ll enjoy. Both alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC, like from USB power or batteries) have sound characteristics you’ll hear without realizing it.

For example:

• Power sources: Will an electrical outlet or USB power be available? Do you need cordless (battery) power?
• Fan speeds: Will a simple single-speed fan be ok or are more important to you?
• Folding/compact size: Is a slightly large fan ok or is space really tight?
• Warranty length
• Positioning or swivel features

Be sure to give these a thought when shopping. However, you can’t go wrong with the products I’ve researched, tested, and that I recommend below.

When traveling abroad it’s critical to be prepared for other power voltages and non-USA electrical outlets. A universal travel adapter set is something I’ve relied on many times. No products found. is a great example of one I recommend. Using a fan without an adapter could destroy it or even cause a fire! This particular model in an amazing 192 countries!

I’ve traveled overseas quite a few times. Without a doubt, one of the best investments I’ve ever made was a universal travel adapter set with outlet adapters and a voltage converter.

Many countries have electrical outlets with different connector jacks that won’t work with American power plugs. Additionally, some countries I’ve been to have 220V (not 120V) power which can destroy your fan, a phone charger, or any electrical devices.

They could potentially even cause a fire!

Be ready to power a fan or other small electrical devices. Do a little research before you go to be sure you can power your small electronics to avoid a tremendous amount of inconvenience.

I’ve learned the hard way that in many areas of the world it’s very difficult to find special power adapters for some of the devices you bring from back home.

Our top picks at a glance

Product reviews and details, 1. vornado fit personal circulator – quality cooling and gentle sound on the go.

The wonderful Vornado Fit Personal Air Circulator is nice take on the traditional small fan. If you’re unfamiliar with the company, Vornado manufactures some of the best air comfort products on the market.

It’s a well-made fan that takes up very little desk or table space as well. Two color options are available: Aqua or pink.

2 speeds are available for your comfort and white noise needs: low and fast. While it’s a quiet fan, it still provides a pleasing white noise sound you can use next to when you’re traveling.

It’s just a matter of selecting low, off, or high from the sturdy rocker switch on the side.

The Vornado Fit is a great little fan that’s well-made and perfect for putting in luggage. The base folds underneath when not in use for compact storage.

And speaking of travel, what would a small be without portability? The Fit folds up easily and is great in luggage. The design makes it easier to pack it in luggage when you’re ready to go.

It’s powered by standard 110 AC power so unfortunately there’s no battery option. However, one reason for this is that it’s more powerful than lesser fans and provides much greater airflow.

Measuring a small 8.3 x 7.5 x 5.2 inches in size, it’s definitely a travel fan that’s great for hotel rooms, resorts, and just about anywhere you need nice white sound and an outlet is available.

Vornado also offers a 3 year warranty which most others don’t.

• 2-speed fan control
• Compact but good airflow for cooling
• Small size (8.3 x 7.5 x 5.2″)
• 2 accent colors available
• Folds up for easy travel
• 3 year limited warranty
• Nice white noise sound, but not too loud
• No battery or USB power option
• Fan angle not adjustable like some competitors
• Costs a bit more than some others

Vornado’s fans are some of the best you’ll find anywhere and the Fit is a great fan that’s well-made and dependable.

2.  O2Cool 10″ folding fan – Great portable white noise with or without an outlet

As it can be powered by both an outlet or 6 “D” size batteries there’s nowhere you can’t use it!

It features 2 selectable speeds: low and high, with a nice gentle but helpful white noise level on high.

Measuring 12 x 3.5 x 12.4 inches in size, there’s a great 10″ fan providing compact but great cooling ability.

Thanks to the unique design the base serves as not just a stand but a battery holder, too. When folded for travel it’s very compact and easy to store.

It’s also energy-efficient and features a patented blade design to help extend battery life while keeping airflow maximized.

There’s also a small carry handle feature at the top as well. An AC adapter is included.

• 2 selectable speeds
• Battery power option
• AC adapter included
• Folds for compact size
• Nice 10″ size fan
• Good white noise and cooling
• Easy to use
• Traditional fan design for reliability
• No rechargeable battery option
• No USB power option
• One color only (gray)
• Basic, no additional side features
• Batteries not included

Want a great travel fan but don’t want to be stuck with a tiny  one like so many others are? It’s an excellent choice and I recommend it.

3. Opolar rechargeable portable fan – Feature-packed and a wonderful all-around choice!

Ready for one of the best travel fan values you can find? Then the No products found. may be  exactly what you’re looking for.

Measuring a tiny 5.9 by 4.9 inches, it’s ultra-compact and easy to fit into bags when it’s time to go. With the Opolar fan you’re ready for all sorts of environments even if outlet power isn’t available.

Be ready for anything!

Depending upon use, you’ll get several hours of comfortable cooling and soft white noise to get you through your rest. Expect about 3-11 hours of use depending on which of the fan speeds you choose (low, medium, or high).

Even more, you also get an optional internal accent light/night light as well as a side light that works like a small flashlight. They’re cool features that are unexpected in this price range.

2 built-in lights are provided and I really like them. LED lights are provided for optional use as an accent light/night light as well as a mini flashlight on the side of the base.

Electronic controls round out a  great little fan.

And most importantly, it produces a steady and soothing ambient white noise you’ll enjoy. It’s also one of the best rated in its price range!

• 3-11 hour battery power time
• Rechargeable battery included
• USB power option (cable included)
• Built-in flashlight
• Electronic controls
• 3 fan speeds
• Internal accent/night light
• AC adapter not included
• No swivel positioning for fan top
• No carrying case

I recommend it because it’s a great combination of cooling, features, and especially value.

4. SkyGenius rechargeable clip-on – It goes and provides white noise where others can’t

• Battery and USB powered (no outlet needed!)
• Rechargeable, and includes the battery
• Can be used on a table or clip on to  nearly anything

Sound impossible? It’s not. The SkyGenius battery powered clip-on mini fan is all of these things. It’s a fantastic choice for where other fans can’t go!

The SkyGenius fan includes a rechargeable battery and USB cable for powering the fan or charging the battery. What’s especially great about this model is how you can adjust it for airflow  perfectly where you need it. The swivel head is easy to use and works great.

One of my biggest reasons for recommending this little winner is how great the design is. The fan cage can be rotated to  any position you need for cooling or white noise use.

There’s also an adjustable fan speed control on the rear . That’s a very unique – and rare – feature for a fan that’s priced so low.

The SkyGenius works great both with its clip feature or standing on its base. Don’t forget you can power it directly from any USB port!

But you’re not limited to using it only with the clip – the base is designed to work on any tabletop or desk just like any other small fan. It measures a mere 7.5 x 6 x 4 inches in size, so it’s an excellent choice for travel.

For having white noise you can literally take anywhere, it’s a slam dunk.

• Battery or USB power
• Rechargeable battery and USB cables included
• Adjustable fan speed
• Clip-on feature works almost anywhere
• Desk stand base
• Swivel head w/ 360 degree rotation
• Simple controls
• Great price
• Good buyer reviews
• Some buyers prefer fixed speed controls
• No AC adapter included
• Black only (no white available)
• Can’t fold for storage

All-in-all, it’s one of the values in a travel fan for white noise anywhere. If you need the greatest in ease of use and portability, be sure to check it out.

5.  Honeywell HTF090B Turbo – Compact and convenient with 3 power options

I’m already a big Honeywell fan as I’ve tested many of their air quality products. They’re some of the best I’ve owned and tested. This cool little Turbo model is no different.

It’s a single-speed fan with simple operation that folds  very neatly out of the way. At 4.7 x 2.28 x 6.4 inches, it’s really small but can cool efficiently and create great white noise you’ll like.

Two great power options are available: USB power (using the included cable) or 4 AA batteries if you need cable-free power.

Thanks to the DC motor design it helps reduce energy waste and can be powered by the batteries more efficiently for extended battery length.

Not only that, but the base it folds into can also double as a carrying handle for your convenience.

• Battery powered (4 x AA)
• Super compact
• Smart folding design
• Simple on-off control
• Clear, helpful instructions
• High airflow despite small size
• Nice white noise production for its class
• Great price and build quality
• Excellent buyer reviews
• Single speed only
• No AC-USB power adapter included
• Cannot swivel fan horizontally

Undoubtedly, the Turbo on the Go fan is one of the most compact and easy-to-use travel fans you’ll find.

If you’re on a budget but want a well-made mini fan for traveling and still enjoying white noise, it’s an excellent choice.

I awarded the Vornado Fit my Editor’s Choice distinction. For those who need a solid performer for white noise you can take with you, it’s a great choice.

It was a tough call, but I’m happy to recommend the Vornado Fit folding portable fan to anyone with access to a standard outlet. You’ll get lovely white noise to help you relax or sleep with the added benefit of great build quality and ease of use.

About the author

Grant is a professional engineer by trade and has experience with both maintenance and do-it-yourself home projects. He enjoys sharing his expertise & ideas with others to help them improve their comfort and quality of life. Read more »

Your comments are welcome!

Which one was the loudest? Thank you!

Hi, the Vornado is one of the louder ones. Most were pretty similar, more or less, depending on their speed setting, etc.

However, another option, if you’ve got room in your luggage or bag, is a slightly larger one like an 8-inch portable fan like this one. They’re louder and still pretty affordable. Hope that helps!

Hi there, I was so happy to find this page. We are traveling to Europe this June from America and my hubby and kids are addicted to the sound of loud box fans, as well as the breeze they offer. I’m trying to figure out what on earth I can do that is small enough to travel with but that also makes as loud of a noise as possible. I do have some white noise machine makers, but they will still want a fan, so having a fan that is loud is the best solution. So funny companies pride themselves on making quiet fans when so many of us want LOUD fans for sleeping LOL! I found a video of the Vornado one and it makes an ok sound when on high, but I was hoping for louder. Grant, I love the 8″ portable Comfort Zone fan you linked to in the comments section. This is exactly what I’m looking for I believe. Only issue is that it is definitely a 120V and I need one that is 220V for Europe (specifically Amsterdam, Germany, Austria, Italy, Switzerland, France and UK). I have heard it’s possible to buy a voltage converter but so many people say they cannot be counted upon to work, and often blow a circuit and that would be horrible cuz then we’re stuck with no fan at all. Don’t suppose anyone out there has any advice? Thanks in advance! -Katie

Hi Katie. I understand what you mean about fan noise & quiet fan noise. The good news is I can tell you from personal experience that a 220V to 110V travel converter with a real transformer will work fine, as I’ve used them myself.

It’s the other type (the ones that don’t produce a real sine wave like you find in your home’s electrical supply) that can cause issues. Here’s an example of the type I’m talking about that work well: ELC step down voltage converter.

Note that you may be be able to use a smaller version based on the wattage of whatever you’re planning to plug in requires. Here’s an example of a lower wattage model adapter.

Best regards!

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The 10 Best Portable Fans of 2024

Battle hot weather with these personal fans you can bring just about anywhere.

In This Article

Jump to a Section

• Our top picks
• Tips for Buying
• Why Trust T+L

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel & Leisure / Kevin Liang

Portable fans are a great way to stay cool on the go, packing a personal breeze to keep temperatures down. After all, heat and humidity can impact our health, mood, and overall experience, especially on scorching days. As a bonus, there’s no need to worry about outlets on the go, or tangled wires, as these devices can be ready to rock with a full charge before you leave home (or the hotel) — but also come in handy during summer power outages, too. They’re a worthy investment though you’ll want to prioritize durability, battery life, weight, and easy maintenance before you shop.

Whether you need a cooling companion for your office desk, while traveling or camping, or literally all the time, there’s a portable fan fit for your needs.

Best Overall

Honeywell turbo on the go personal fan.

This rechargeable fan can also run on AA batteries as a backup.

It only has one speed.

Small but mighty, this Honeywell personal fan is our top pick for its range and dual power sources. Although it only has one speed, the air can reach up to 4 feet so it’s not lacking in force. The fan is incredibly lightweight as well making it a great companion whether you bring it on warm-weather trips or use it right at home instead. It runs pretty quietly, so if it's white noise you’re after for sleeping, this might be the fan for you. We also love that it can be hung, carried, or propped up with the versatile built-in folding stand.

If you don’t have access to a USB port for charging, 4 AA batteries offer a solid backup and, since it uses a DC motor, it saves up to 50 percent in energy usage unlike those with an AC motor. Whether you’re packing this small fan in your luggage, toting it to the gym, or using it as a personal breeze on the deck, this Honeywell Turbo portable fan gets the job done.

The Details: USB cable with rechargeable battery or 4 AA batteries (sold separately) | 4.7 x 5 x 12.5 inches | 0.04 pounds

Best Budget

Comfortness mini portable fan.

It has 4 speeds.

It doesn’t have the option for backup batteries.

We love how powerful the compact, lightweight ComfortneSS Mini Portable Handheld Fan is for its size. It folds up for easy storage in even a purse or small tote bag, and comes with a lanyard for wearing around your wrist or neck, too. The battery life is long-lasting with the ability to keep the breeze going all day long (for up to 15 hours on a full charge). This handheld fan offers fantastic value for the price point so you don’t have to dig too deep into those pockets to stay cool. Plus, the seven blades work to keep the air flowing at four speeds — low, medium, high, and strong — so you can choose your desired strength.

The Details: USB cable with rechargeable battery | 2 x 3.5 x 4.2 inches | 0.37 pounds

Best Wearable

Jisulife neck fan.

It’s bladeless with hands-free cooling.

It takes 3-4 hours to charge.

Get yourself as close to the cooling device as possible with the Jisulife Four Turbo Neck Fan. With a twin-turbine design and 58 widely-shaped air outlets, you can keep cool on the go while choosing from three adjustable speed modes. The rechargeable battery can last up to 7 hours if charged to the max, and this wearable fan is a fantastic travel companion whether spending a hot afternoon at a football game or touring city sites abroad. The bladeless design makes it safer to use with much less of a chance to catch longer hairstyles. And, since it’s lightweight, it’s both comfortable to wear and packable for wherever you need a personal cooling device.

The Details: USB cable with rechargeable lithium battery | 2.3 x 7.8 x 8.7 inches | 0.75 pounds

Best for Plane Travel

Jisulife handheld mini fan.

It can be used as a handheld or desktop fan.

The highest speed can be noisy.

We love the incredibly lightweight Jisulife Handheld Mini Fan for its versatility and three working speeds. One of our favorite features is the detachable fan cover that can be taken off for quick and easy cleaning. The rechargeable battery lasts up to 20 hours at the lowest speed and up to 5 hours at the highest speed. The compact size makes it super portable to throw in a bag without taking up too much room or adding a lot of weight. The bottom includes an anti-slip mat so it can also be used on a flat surface like a tray table or desk, in lieu of holding it. Additionally, a handy anti-trigger switch on the underside of the base will keep it from accidentally turning on when inside a purse or suitcase.

The Details: USB cable with rechargeable battery | 1.8 x 3.4 x 6.2 inches | 0.38 pounds

Best for Camping

Coleman lighted tent fan.

It’s both a fan and a light in one.

The rechargeable power pack is sold separately. 

Tents can get hot when camping in warm weather, but the Coleman CPX 6 Lighted Tent Fan helps keep the interior nice and cool for more comfortable sleeping. The versatile design allows it to stand up on the ground or be hung from the ceiling of your tent using the magnetic base and steel plate on the exterior. Soft foam blades keep things safe, and two speeds provide airflow on high or low. The light can be dimmed to a nightlight for children sleeping inside, but note that it’s a little heavier than other portable models so may be best for car camping when it doesn’t need to be hand carried along with other gear.

The Details: 4 D batteries (sold separately), CPX 6 rechargeable power cartridge, or CPX 6 A/C adapter cartridge | 10 x 5.5 inches | 3.025 pounds

Most Versatile

Jisulife handheld mini fan.

It’s a fan, flashlight, and power bank all in one.

The included lanyard is difficult to attach.

We love that the Jisulife Handheld Mini Fan isn’t just a cooling device, but also a power bank and flashlight. This multi-tool is pocket-sized, folding up into itself so it’s easy to tote around anywhere at all. The long-lasting battery can go for up to 21 hours on the lower speed and 14 hours on the high speed. We also like the automatic-stop safety feature just in case you touch the blades by accident. This handheld fan is perfect for travel as it can fit easily in your palm, is lightweight, and gives you the option of charging your phone or having a light by your side in a pinch.

The Details: USB cable with rechargeable battery | 1.46 x 1.57 x 4.72 inches | 0.27 pounds

Best Bladeless

Conbola 11.8-inch desk fan.

It is stylish, sleek, and runs smoothly.

The battery doesn't last as long as other options.

Not only can bladeless fans be more energy-efficient, they’re also often safer and easier to clean, too. This Conbola Desk Fan is our top pick in this category with up to 9 hours of cool air flow when fully charged and 3 adjustable speeds, depending on your needs. The sleek design and touch button control looks nice, and the non-slip rubber bottom keeps it in place on a range of surfaces. This is a great option to put in a checked bag or bring for car travel due to its larger size, and no blades mean your hair can’t get easily caught if you get too close. It cleans with a damp cloth and comes in a handful of appealing colors as well.

The Details: USB cable with rechargeable battery | 4.5 x 5.75 x 11.8 inches | 1.27 pounds

Best Clip-on

Skygenius mini desk fan.

It has 360 degrees of rotation for the preferred placement of airflow.

The battery life isn’t that long.

Clip on the SkyGenius Battery Operated Mini Desk Fan and enjoy a powerful airflow of up to 14.5 feet. The compact size makes it easy to take along wherever you’re going — on vacation, to the office, for camping, and more. This is a great option for clipping onto a stroller or within your car but any surface that can fit the thick clip would work, too. The portable fan can be fully charged in about 4.5 hours and lasts between 2 and 6 hours, depending on the speed you choose. This durable pick operates quietly on both the low and medium speeds, but a little louder on the high speed if sound’s a top consideration for you.

The Details: USB cable with rechargeable battery | 4 x 6.2 x 8 inches | 0.6 pounds

Best With Mister

Comlife portable handheld misting fan.

It’s still lightweight despite the built-in 25-milliliter water tank.

There’s no lock option for the on/off button so you have to be careful it doesn’t accidentally turn on in your bag.

Sometimes you need a little spritz with your breeze and the Comlife Portable Handheld Misting Fan has come to the rescue. We appreciate that this model comes with a silicone seal to prevent water spillage in your bag when you transport it (especially since there’s no way to lock the power switch). It clocks in at around half a pound, so it’s lightweight and portable, particularly when folded up. The original setting rotates between misting and not misting every 5 minutes but the button is multifunctional and even has the option for a continuous mist, as desired. The small, included bottle makes it easy to refill the water tank on the go, too.

The Details: USB cable with rechargeable battery | 1.46 x 4.13 x 8.86 inches | 0.57 pounds

Best for Indoors

Sharper image personal fan.

Sharper Image

You have the option to use the USB charge or plug it into the wall directly.

We wish it came with a remote so it could be controlled from afar.

We love that the Sharper Image USB Powered Personal Fan has a removable base and offers a rotating function for better airflow and circulation. When running this fan from the battery charge on its lowest speed, it can last a full 24 hours but the plug alternative lets it continue nonstop. The compact size is perfect for the office or home, especially while working at a desk. For a small fan, it’s fairly strong and keeps the area cool, all while being quiet, too.

The Details: USB cable with rechargeable battery or wall plug | 10.5 x 11.2 x 4.3 inches | 2.2 pounds

Tips for Buying a Portable Fan

Consider the size and attachment types.

Your intended use will determine the best compactness and type. If you’re in the market for a portable fan to take on a vacation, it’s best to prioritize small devices that can fold up to pocket-sized or don’t take up too much space in your luggage. Also consider if you want a handheld fan, one with a stand, or something that can easily clip onto items like strollers. Many fans offer a few different carrying styles including attachable lanyards to go around a wrist or neck, too.

Look at performance and noise

Since we use portable fans for a variety of reasons in a range of settings, researching performance and noise level helps ensure you find the best one for your needs. Since most portable fans run on rechargeable batteries, it’s ideal to look for long battery life that will get you through most of the day. (Most portable fans can last up to 15-20 hours when used on the lowest speed.) 

When using a portable fan at work, you’ll most likely want one that operates very quietly, such as a bladeless fan. When traveling, some people prefer the white noise to help them sleep, so a bit more noise is actually desired. 

You’ll also want to evaluate how strong the airflow is and how far it goes; you won’t need something super forceful in a confined space like an airplane but, if you’re traveling somewhere like a theme park in Florida or heading on an African safari, purchasing a portable fan with a mister offers additional cooling in extreme temperatures.

Yes, you can bring a portable fan on an airplane in a carry-on or checked bag as long as the device is battery-operated, and complies with posted size restrictions .

Since portable fans differ in design and materials, it’s best to consult the manual for cleaning instructions for your specific model. If info is not provided, most portable fans can be cleaned well by using a vacuum duster attachment and a damp cloth. It’s best not to use cleaners that contain strong chemicals as that may damage the device. To prolong the lifespan, make sure you don’t overcharge the battery, always use the one it came with, and try to keep it out of the sun, particularly when charging. 

Typically, you can expect a portable fan to last between 2 and 8 years. A portable fan’s lifespan will depend on the type you have, how often you use it, and how well you take care of it. If you leave your fan running all day, everyday, it will likely not last as long as something used sparingly. Rechargeable batteries can lose maximum potential power over time so it’s important to not overcharge them (i.e., leave them plugged in after they’ve reached full capacity). Sun exposure and water like rainfall can have an impact, too, and it’s wise to make sure not to use an indoor fan outdoors, as that can affect its lifespan as well. Additionally, cleaning your fan regularly according to the instructions provided always helps.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

As a travel writer and outdoor enthusiast, T+L contributor Lauren Breedlove used her personal experience with finding the right portable items for her trips to warm weather destinations plus scoured the internet to research and select the best portable fans for a wide array of situations. 

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.

Last chance: 6 best portable fans on sale for Amazon Prime Day

This year witnessed record-high temperatures worldwide, with the mercury repeatedly hitting over 100 degrees Fahrenheit from Arizona to Nevada, Texas and across the ocean, stretching into Athens, Greece and beyond.

With the final day of Amazon's Fall Prime Day upon us, now is a great time to get a good deal on a hi-tech portable fan. Trust us, you'll be thankful by the time summer comes back around.

Here are some of the TPG team favorites and best-reviewed portable fans on Amazon that are currently on sale.

Best for extra features: Jisulife Handheld Mini Fan — $14.39 (normally $24.99)

Coming in strong with an Amazon rating of 4.6, this portable fan from Jisulife is a small but mighty device that offers great value for the money.

Ergonomically designed, this device easily folds small to pack in a bag. It's also rechargeable, offering between 14 and 21 hours of use depending on which of its two settings you use. It comes with two great additional features: The fan houses a small flashlight and also functions as a power bank that can charge your devices on the go.

Still need convincing? TPG travel reporter Tarah Chieffi who makes frequent trips to the often-hot Orlando theme parks, never travels without it.

"It folds up small and holds a charge for longer than any other fan I've tried," she said. "I also love that I can use it to charge my phone when I am on the go."

Buy: Jisulife Handheld Mini Fan , $14.39 (normally $24.99)

Best for hotel rooms: coldSky Portable Handheld Fan — $12.74 (normally $14.99)

This sturdy and powerful fan might be slightly larger than other portable fans (though certainly small enough to pack into a tote bag), but that's not necessarily a bad thing. Sometimes, you want something with a little more oomph for when you accidentally book yourself into a hotel room that has subpar (or not) air conditioning .

The coldSky device is essentially a compact desk fan that packs a punch but is still small enough not to clutter up your hotel room's bedside table. It has five speeds and a seven-blade design that will make your room breezy in no time. It also has a handy digital display showing the remaining battery life so you know when to recharge the device.

Buy: coldSky Portable Handheld Fan , $12.74 (normally $14.99)

Best for serious wind power: Jisulife Handheld Fan — $12.99 (normally $22.99)

This is a stylishly designed hand-held fan that can also easily stand up on a desk.

The Jisulife Handheld Fan offers up to 16 hours of battery power and is easily charged via USB. It has fewer speed settings than some other fans on this list, but its real selling point is its strength. At full speed, it can reach up to 4,400 revolutions per minute; this equates to the feel of a strong wind, making it great for cutting through the harshest of heat.

Buy: Jisulife Handheld Fan , $12.99 (normally $22.99)

Best hands-free fan: Penkou Portable Neck Fan — $25.99 (normally $39.99)

Looking for something you don't have to carry around in your hands all day but are also worried that a wearable fan sounds like a quirky steampunk contraption? This neck fan by Penkou is a safe option.

When in use, the device looks similar to a pair of headphones dangling around your neck. Its bladeless fan design produces less than 20 decibels of sound (about the same level as leaves gently rustling), so it also comes free of noise distraction. And with a weight of just 8.8 ounces, you should be safe from neck strain.

In terms of battery power, you should get between three and 16 hours, depending on which setting you prefer. It's perfect for hikes, at the theme park or to wear during a long, sweaty train or bus journey.

Buy: Penkou Portable Neck Fan , $25.99 (normally $39.99)

TPG favorite: VersionTech Mini Handheld Fan — $12.99 (normally $27.99)

Finally, if you're looking for something cheap but reliable enough to shower you with a pleasant breeze, we recommend VersionTech's mini-handled fan. It's a favorite of TPG director of travel content Summer Hull.

This device can function like both a hand-held fan and a small desk fan. It also easily clips to bags or other thin surfaces.

The fan has three adjustable speeds and will work for up to three hours on the highest setting or eight hours on the lowest. It's currently priced at $12.99, down from its usual price tag of $27.99 as of this publication date. Get it while you can.

Buy: VersionTech Mini Handheld Fan , $12.99 (normally $27.99)

Related reading:

• 13 must-have items the TPG team can't travel without
• 9 tech devices I always pack with me — and 1 that's changing my routine at home
• 7 essential baby gear items that make travel easier
• 10 must-have travel accessories for less than $15

Best Travel Fans to Keep You Cool in Hot Destinations

Electronics , LUGGAGE

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Headed somewhere hot and want a portable method to stay cool? We asked TFG readers to share their picks for the best travel fans so you can keep your temperature down!

Best Travel Fans

Written By: Tae Haahrr

Table Of Contents

Traveling to a warm destination can be tricky if some of your accommodation options don’t have air conditioning and you need to stay cool or you don’t want to overheat during an excursion like a sunset boat ride or a walking tour.

We’ve asked TFG readers to share their picks for the best portable fan for travel so you can stay cool no matter where you are!

Handheld Fans for Sightseeing

JISULIFE 3in1 Pocket Handheld Mini Fan

Mini Portable Fan for Travel

The JISULIFE 3in1 Pocket Handheld Mini Fan  is slim and lightweight, perfect for dropping in your bag and pulling out whenever you need to cool down.

Another Disney travel fan favorite, one TFG reader says, “We go to Disney all the time and I hate the heat! I always bring my little fan that attaches to my phone and I LOVE it!!! I also use it when traveling. Everyone always comments on my fan and wishes they had one. We always bring a battery backup for our phones when we go to the parks so we have no problem with using the phone fan.”

This 3in1 mini handheld fan is USB rechargeable through a regular USB socket, laptop, power bank , or car charger, it also has soft wings that are safe to use near your fingers.

Travelon 3-Speed Folding Fan

Best Travel Fan for Packable Convenience

The Travelon Folding Fan is one of the best personal fan options on the market, per TFG recommendations.

It’s quiet, can hang or sit on a flat surface, and is light and easy to carry. One TFG reader shared, “I’ve used this one for a couple of years and it has worked well.”

It requires four AAA batteries and one reader says that it is “So handy, it has saved me when flying.” But be careful with medium to long length hair.

Tripole Mini Handheld Fan

Best Personal Fan for Hot Days

If you’re looking for a truly small travel fan then the Tripole Mini Handheld Fan  is for you!

It can be thrown into your purse and carted around whenever you need it. One TFG reader shares, “I always use this fan when traveling, love the size.”

This is one of the best small travel fan models around and is loved by travelers who experience the occasional hot flash.

JISULIFE Portable Neck Fan Hands Free Bladeless Fan

Hands Free Portable Neck Fan

This hands free bladeless neck fan by JISULIFE can send the wind without clogging your hands by simply placing it on your neck. Designed without wings, it can be used safely by children and the elderly so you can cool down anywhere. It’s definitely a good choice for the best personal fan.

One wearer shares, “ I love this fan which looks like you have a pair of headphones resting on your neck. It’s powerful but not too noisy and keeps me cool, it runs on charge for quite a while, depending on what speed you have on, but it’s easy enough to charge up. With the cool air going straight to your neck it really makes a difference. I recommend this fan & great price too.”

Compact and lightweight for carrying. It is wearable throughout your daily life without any sense of displacement or awkwardness.

VersionTECH Mini Handheld Fan

Versatile Small Travel Fan

The VersionTECH Mini Fan is a hand-held fan that is ideal for traveling according to TFG readers.

It can be hung, clipped, set on a table, or held, making it perfect for someone who’s moving around. Its battery is rechargeable via a USB port and you can choose from three different speeds!

It comes in five colors and will fit perfectly into your bag. One TFG reader shares, “It is smaller and light, great for travel.”

O2COOL Sport Carabiner Misting Fan

Misting Portable Fan

The Sport Carabiner Misting Fan is perfect to combat those hot days. It combines the cooling power of a breeze with a refreshing mist of water, keeping you comfortable in the heat.

It has a handy carabiner hook so you can keep it on you at all times. And its compact design makes it really easy to cart around and pack.

This mini portable fan is great if you’re hitting up a theme park with the kids or sightseeing on a sweltering day. It’s small but the breeze is sure to make hot days more bearable.

Portable Travel Fans for Your Accommodation

SmartDevil 3 Speed Travel Mini Fan

Readers’ Favorite Travel Fan

According to TFG readers, the SmartDevil 3 Speed Travel Mini Fan  is the best portable fan on the market. It’s small but mighty and makes little sound.

It’s tiny and its 6-ounce weight won’t take up a ton of space in your bag. But it’s powerful with three speeds. One TFG reader shares, “My husband travels with this and loves it. It goes everywhere with him and it’s very small.”

This portable fan is USB compatible mode and has a removable, rechargeable battery. But note that the battery is lithium so you’ll have to carry at least the battery with you in a bag to comply with TSA requirements. Another TFG reader shares, “Brought it to Scotland and worked well as a fan but also as a nightlight on a sleeper train!”

O2COOL Treva 5” Portable Fan

Packable Mini Battery Operated Fan

The Treva 5” Portable Fan is perfect for travel with its 5-inch span and relatively flat body. Making it small and optimal for packing!

It runs off two D batteries, has two speeds, and makes minimal noise. One TFG reader shares, “I got this last summer and took it with me on a camping trip during one of the hottest days in August and it was a lifesaver! It folds so it lays kind of flat and I loved that it had a tilt adjustment.”

It’s under $10 and you can get it in seven adorable colors (check out the fun, bold green). What more are you really looking for in a travel fan?

Efluky Portable Fan

USB Rechargeable Camping Travel Fan

The Efluky Portable Fan is a rechargeable USB fan that works well for travel. It’s a whopping 4 inches, ensuring that it won’t take up a ton of space and it’s super easy to pack and carry!

One TFG reader says, “If you’re headed somewhere hot this summer, this little fan is the bomb! Only $15, USB rechargeable, and it really pushes some air. Was a lifesaver last year in Budapest and Paris!”

It’s powerful but quiet and will save you when air conditioning isn’t around to keep you cool. But don’t take it from us, this TFG reader shares, “The best thing I’ve ever bought just may be this Efluky portable fan from Amazon! A lifesaver in nearly 90-degree heat with no AC, especially on public transportation. It has a USB rechargeable lithium battery, six-hour battery life and pushes quite a bit of air for such a small fan.”

Beskar Clip on Mini Desk Fan

Battery Operated Mini Travel Fan with Clip

The  Beskar Battery Operated Clip on Mini Desk Fan with 3 speed airflow is a fan that TFG readers love. The maximum working decibel is just 40db, it will not disturb you at all when you are working or sleeping.

This model is particularly helpful if you’re planning on taking a stroller-aged child for a summer tour around Disneyland and need something to clip to the stroller. It’s sturdy, and durable, and the fan gaps are tiny so there’ll be no fingers getting anywhere near the blades.

One TFG reader says, “I like that I can clip it on something or stand it on a surface. In my experience, the rechargeable battery doesn’t last all night so I almost always plug it into my USB charger.”

Vornado Flippi V6 Personal Air Circulator Fan

Portable Low-Noise Fan

The Vornado Flippi is one of the best personal fan choices if you’re looking to circulate air around you while you sleep.

While it’s a little bit bigger than some of the other fan choices at 1.7 lbs and 6.2 inches tall, it’s still small and travel-friendly. It emits a light breeze and makes limited noise, so if you’re sensitive to noise and want something non-disruptive to push a little air on you, this is your fan!

This is a stylish personal fan, coming in four fancy colors (check out the cute teal!) with an adjustable fan head.  One TFG reader declares it’s the “perfect travel fan.”

Lasko 2002W Personal Fan

Mini Household Fan

The Lasko 2002W Personal Fan is the personal equivalent of your average household fan.

You can move the fan head up and down or to either side to ensure it’s focused on where you want the air to go. It’s fairly quiet, but the sound does increase as you go up in the settings. And it’s much more powerful than it looks!

While it does require assembly, it doesn’t need any tools to put it together. Overall, TFG readers “really like this fan.”

Idealforce Mini Fan

Small Personal Desk Fan

The Idealforce Mini Fan  is a small travel fan that TFG readers recommend packing on your next adventure.

It has two settings and is adjustable so you’re getting the right amount of air in the direction you want. It’s also said to be really quiet. One TFG reader shares, “I adore this little fan.”

It’s versatile because you can use a USB to operate it. Another TFG reader shares, “I also have this fan and LOVE it! Can’t travel without it.” 

Best Travel Fans Comparison Chart

Universal Travel Plug Charger

Universal Travel Adapter with Three USB Ports and One Type C

A universal travel adapter is an absolute must for any traveler. It allows you to charge three devices at once so you can charge your laptop, phone, and portable charger all at the same time!

A solid product by  Travel Fashion Girl , we’ve specifically designed it with globetrotters in mind, making it possibly  the   best  power bank for travel. You can also use it in over 150+ countries. Plus, it’s red so you won’t leave it behind on a white hotel room wall.

If you choose a fan with a plug or USB, remember to bring the above international travel adapter so you can charge up to three of your electronics at the same time!

Watch the  video  above or read  this post  to learn about the differences between travel adapters, converters, and voltage!

What do you think are the best travel fans? Share your thoughts below!

Want more travel gadget articles? Read these: 

• What is the Best Travel Adapter?
• Stop Tangled Electronic Cables With These Travel Cord Organizer Options
• The Ultimate Backpack Organizer: Pack and Unpack in Seconds
• Best Travel Kettle Will Help You Start Your Day Right

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Hope you liked this post on the best travel fans. Please share with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

Just used the JISULIFE 3 in 1 fan during a trip to Jamaica in August. Love that it folds up small enough to fit in a purse while traveling / sightseeing (even going to dinner as most of the restaurants were open air). It also folds so you can set it on a table. Very useful and helpful!

I’m off to Southeast Asia in November, and I thank you for suggesting a fan! Brilliant!

I love using travel fans when I’m traveling to hot destinations! They’re so helpful in keeping me cool and comfortable.

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The Best Fans for White Noise of 2023

By Tom Scalisi

Posted on May 2, 2023 1:06 PM EDT

15 minute read

Best Overall

Vornado energy smart medium pedestal air circulator, best bang for the buck, vornado flippi v6 personal air circulator, upgrade pick, blueair pure fan auto.

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn More ›

Some folks need a little extra help when it comes to catching those ever-precious Z’s. While many people don’t have any problem shutting down for the day, there are those that live on busy streets, have rowdy neighbors, or simply like a little sound in the air, and the best fans for white noise can help.

According to the Sleep Foundation , white noise is “a noise that contains all of the frequencies across the spectrum of audible sound in equal measure.” In relation to this article, however, we’ll define white noise more broadly and more conversationally as a low, constant sound that can help people fall asleep. It can be from an air conditioner, a sound app, or a fan, and this guide will explain which of those fans are the best options for white noise.

• BEST OVERALL: Vornado Energy Smart Medium Pedestal Air Circulator
• BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Vornado Flippi V6 Personal Air Circulator
• UPGRADE PICK: Blueair Pure Fan Auto
• BEST TABLETOP: Hunter Retro 12-Inch All-Metal Table Fan
• BEST TOWER: Lasko High-Velocity Tower Fan With Remote Control
• BEST PEDESTAL: Lasko 18-Inch 3-Speed Oscillating Pedestal Fan
• BEST WINDOW FAN: Bionaire Remote Control Twin Window Fan
• BEST BOX FAN: Hurricane 20-Inch Classic Portable Floor Fan
• BEST COMPACT: Lasko Platinum Desktop Wind Tower Oscillating Fan

How We Chose the Best Fans for White Noise

Sleep is incredibly important, so we wanted to put together a list of the best fans for white noise that we possibly could. First, we considered all of the most important features we would expect from a high-quality fan. Then, we performed extensive product research to come up with a list of products we felt might meet our criteria.

Once we knew what fans we were looking at, we dove deep into the research again. We compared each model’s noise level, style, price point, and more to ensure that all of the products we suggested offered enough value. For fans that did not provide a measured noise level, we took into account how much airflow they created, measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM) by the manufacturer, and used that measurement as a baseline for noise creation. Those that didn’t offer enough value were tossed aside while those that passed were given awards based on their strengths.

Our Top Picks

Below are our top picks for the best fans for white noise. This list offers a variety of fans in size, style, and functionality. After comparing these models, be sure to take a look at important considerations to keep in mind when shopping for the right fan. You’ll want to ensure that your preferred model can produce enough constant noise and airflow for comfortable sleeping.

The Vornado energy-smart pedestal fan combines raw power with a smart design, allowing it to provide white noise. It uses steeply pitched blades and a powerful brushless motor to blow air up to 85 feet away while consuming less energy than comparable fans. That air travels in a vortex pattern, hitting the far wall and dispersing around the room. Plus, it produces 59 decibels of fan noise on high, which is enough for sleepers in almost any environment.

The Vornado is all about adjustability. It has 99 speed settings so you can find your perfect airflow and noise level. It also has a tilting head and a telescoping base to ensure the right angle and height, which is adjustable from 31 to 39 inches. This fan also comes with a remote and a built-in timer for energy savings. On the downside, these features do come with a steeper price tag than most standard pedestal fans, and although it’s designed to move air around the room, it does not oscillate.

Product Specs 

• Decibels: 59 on high
• Remote: Yes
• Steeply pitched blades and a brushless motor improve its power and efficiency
• The high setting produces 59 decibels, which is likely enough for most sleepers’ needs
• Features 99 speed settings so you can find just the right setting for your needs
• Does not oscillate
• More expensive than most standard pedestal fans

Get the Vornado energy-smart fan for white noise at Amazon , Wayfair , or Best Buy .

Folks who just want to add a little noise to their nighttime without breaking the bank will want to consider the Vornado Flippi V6. The Flippi is a compact model with an even more compact price point, and it easily fits on nightstands and suits most budgets. The head is positionable and the base swivels manually, so you can position the airflow or fan sound anywhere you need it.

The Vornado Flippi has two speeds: low and high. The Flippi produces 50 decibels on high and 39 decibels on low. It might not produce enough white noise for some folks in noisy settings, but with it set to high and positioned on the nightstand, the constant hum should work for most folks in quiet or just slightly noisy environments.

• Decibels: 50 on high
• Positionable head and a swivel base so you can direct the airflow where it’s needed
• Compact size can fit on a nightstand right where you need it
• Available in a variety of colors to suit any room or decor
• Some users find the power and speed dial on the bottom awkward to use

Get the Vornado Flippi fan for white noise at Amazon , The Home Depot , or Best Buy .

When it comes to upgrading to a top-of-the-line fan, that extra money needs to make sense. With the Blueair Pure fan, that extra cash comes with a replaceable HEPA filter, allowing users to fall asleep with white noise without worrying about breathing in dirty air all night. This fan also includes two prefilters that keep larger particles off of the HEPA filter to make it last as long as possible.

Blueair prides itself on its whisper-quiet 25-decibel noise level on low, but it does reach 54 decibels on its high setting, and that’s just over the sweet spot of 46 decibels, so it’s better for slightly noisy spaces. And while it’s just slightly too large for a nightstand—it’s 15.5 inches tall by 12.9 inches wide by 11.2 inches deep—it does disperse air in a 90-degree range without oscillation. The only real complaint is that it doesn’t come with a remote, even at its premium price point.

• Decibels: 54 on high
• Includes a HEPA filter to remove dust, allergens, smoke, and more from the air
• Prefilter prevents large particles from landing on the HEPA filter to improve longevity
• Disperses air in a 90-degree range, providing a constant breeze instead of an occasional gust
• Despite being a premium product, it does not come with a remote

Get the Blueair fan for white noise at Amazon , Best Buy , or Blueair (includes one prefilter).

When it comes to a cool, retro design for white noise, the Hunter 12-inch retro table fan is worth a look. This model looks like a fan from decades ago and even features all-metal construction for a truly old-school feel. Though it might not coordinate with all modern decor, it is available in six finishes—oil-rubbed bronze, matte black, brushed nickel, breezewave green, matte white, and onyx copper—to suit a variety of styles and color schemes.

It has a three-speed motor that produces plenty of noise for sleeping tight. While its decibel rating isn’t readily available, metal is a poor sound insulator, and the old-school design ensures it’s not “whisper quiet” (under 35 decibels). This allows users who need a loud fan for sleeping to position it on a dresser or nightstand and block out the sounds of the street or neighborhood. It also features 85 degrees of oscillation to move air around the entire room at night.

• Decibels: N/A
• It features a cool old-school design that not only looks great but produces plenty of noise
• High settings can help block out noise in busy neighborhoods or loud streets while sleeping
• Oscillates up to 85 degrees to move air around the room all night for improved comfort
• The design might not fit everyone’s decor style

Get the Hunter fan for white noise at Amazon , The Home Depot , or Wayfair .

Lasko’s high-velocity tower fan is worth considering for anyone who needs a powerful fan that creates a soothing whir that’s perfect for sleeping. This tower fan moves air at 509 CFM at its highest of three speeds. Though Lasko doesn’t measure decibel levels for its fans, this tower fan’s airflow will likely create enough noise to block out noisy streets and neighbors and offer improved sleep. (Plus, in reviews, many owners have noted how much they appreciate the white noise produced by this fan—not to mention its great airflow.)

This tower model measures 35 inches high, but it’s only 11.9 inches wide and 8.8 inches deep, so its compact footprint won’t take up much space in a bedroom . It has built-in timers, fan oscillation, and even a remote so you can adjust the fan from the bed if needed. It also has a built-in carrying handle for easy transport from room to room.

• High-velocity fan produces plenty of noise and airflow for a good night’s sleep
• Features a built-in timer, oscillation, and a remote control for convenience
• Features a compact footprint that won’t take up much space
• Lasko doesn’t provide output decibel readings on any of the settings

Get the Lasko tower fan for white noise at Amazon or  The Home Depot .

Folks looking for a pedestal fan for white noise that they can set up at the foot of their bed, in the corner, or anywhere else in the bedroom will want to consider this model from Lasko. This 18-inch fan is a large traditional design and has five blades. This allows the fan to move plenty of air—it has a 1,940 CFM rating—while also being loud enough to block outside noises. This fan features plenty of adjustments. You can adjust the height, up to 53.5 inches, while also adjusting the tilt of the head and changing between three speeds. It also includes a remote so you don’t have to get out of your cozy bed to set the speed, oscillation, or timer.

• 18-inch fan with 5 blades produces plenty of airflow and white noise for most sleepers
• Adjustable height and angle allow users to position the airflow exactly where they want it
• Comes with a remote for changing speeds and oscillation, as well as a built-in timer
• Lasko doesn’t provide the decibel rating for any of the settings

Get the Lasko pedestal fan for white noise at The Home Depot  or Wayfair .

When it comes to getting fresh air in and old, stale air out, the Bionaire remote-control twin window fan makes a great option. This fan fits within the jamb of an open window and allows you to set one fan to blow inward while the other blows outward for air circulation. Both fans can also blow inward and outward, if necessary. And with all that airflow, this fan provides a decent amount of white noise—30 decibels’ worth—in quieter rooms.

This model from Bionaire features three speed settings. It also comes with a remote that can stay on the nightstand for easy speed and airflow direction changes. It features an LED thermostat that will turn the fan on and off at certain temperatures. However, due to its design, the fan only works when it’s actually in a window jamb, so it’s not an all-season solution.

• Decibels: 30
• Dual-fan design allows you to adjust the airflow direction in or out, or both, for plenty of circulation
• Provides a lower level of white noise, making it great for otherwise quiet rooms
• Comes with a remote that makes adjusting the fan’s output easier
• Programmable thermostat turns fan off and on to maintain selected comfort level
• Not suitable for use during colder months due to its window installation

Get the Bionaire fan for white noise at Amazon .

This Hurricane model is worth a look for sleepers who prefer box fans. This fan is a basic box design, but it moves air at a whopping 2,400 CFM, so it produces enough airflow to generate white noise to help folks get to sleep. It has a basic square design with a five-blade fan rotor, providing plenty of airflow from all three speed settings.

This model features adjustable feet and built-in cord storage for convenience. At 20 inches tall by 20 inches wide and only 3.5 inches deep, it can sit on top of a bench or dresser, but its best use is on the floor. On the downside, the cord is a bit short at just 5 feet, so you’ll want to ensure that there is an outlet very close to where you’d like the fan.

• The 5-blade rotor moves a lot of air to make plenty of white noise
• Compact size for a box fan allows it to fit on a dresser or bench as well as the floor
• Has adjustable feet for stability and built-in cord storage for keeping this model organized
• There isn’t a decibel rating listed for this fan on any of its settings
• Cord is a bit short for a fan that does not oscillate or have adjustable height

Get the Hurricane fan for white noise at Amazon or The Home Depot .

The Lasko Platinum desktop wind tower oscillating fan features a compact design that you can place on your desk, dresser, or nightstand. This model measures just 14 inches tall by 6 inches wide by 6 inches deep, making it small enough to fit in some tight bedrooms or even coffee tables for nights on the couch.

This model features three speed settings, the highest of which moves air at 114 CFM and should produce enough white noise to help folks fall asleep if placed nearby. But since it only weighs 3.14 pounds, it’s very easy to move around the home. Just keep in mind that, as a smaller fan, it’s difficult to get a ton of noise from it.

• Small enough to fit on a nightstand, intensifying the user’s white-noise experience
• Features 3 speeds to allow folks to customize their airflow and white-noise output
• Compact design is easy to move about the home
• As a smaller fan, it might not produce as much white noise as some users might prefer

Get the Lasko desktop fan for white noise at Amazon .

Jump to Our Top Picks

What to consider when choosing a fan for white noise.

No one wants their sleep messed with, so it’s important to understand the considerations involved with choosing the best fan for white noise. The following are some of the most important points to keep in mind when comparing these products.

White noise has the ability to block out background noise, overload the brain (in a good way), and encourage relaxation. This is what a sound machine can produce.

Technically, the sound from an electric fan does not produce white noise, which is a noise that contains all of the different frequencies of sound that a human can hear. But, a fan can produce enough constant noise to bring on the same effects as white noise. Many folks choose to set one up in the bedroom to help them easily drift off at the end of the day.

So how much noise is necessary? In general, a fan with white noise around the 40- to 50-decibel range is ideal for quiet environments. However, for particularly noisy environments or folks who need a little more oomph from their white noise fan, a fan that produces between 60 and 70 decibels is probably best. Coupled with some window soundproofing methods and earplugs, sleepers can find an ideal combination that will feel like they’re far removed from the hustle and bustle.

There are several types of fans, and their distinctions mostly involve their design and how they work. The following are some of the most common types of fans for white noise:

• Tabletop : Tabletop fans are compact enough to fit on top of a table or dresser. They’re relatively portable but can move quite a bit of air. They’re the perfect choice for a nightstand fan, as these are generally quieter fans , but can be helpful if placed close to the sleeper.
• Pedestal : Pedestal fans are freestanding. Their bases sit on the floor but they have long shafts that hold the fan 3 to 5 feet off of the ground.
• Tower : Tower fans are tall, slender fans that resemble columns. They’re typically 2 to 3 feet tall and pivot on a stationary base. They have compact footprints but can move quite a bit of air.
• Window : Window fans fit inside the jamb of an open window. Many times, these fans have two motors, each powering a fan blade. They can pull air into the room, push it out, or circulate fresh air in while pushing room air out.
• Box : Box fans are the large, square-shaped fans that folks typically use in front of a window or by placing them on the floor. They’re versatile, and even a small box fan produces a lot of airflow, but they are easy to knock over. These are typically some of the noisiest fans, as well.
• Compact : A compact fan could potentially fit inside a nightstand or suitcase. These small fans don’t produce much white noise, but they can be helpful for folks who can’t sleep without a bit of noise and some airflow.

Size and Portability 

When choosing the best fan for white noise, you’ll want to consider whether size or portability is an issue. Those with smaller rooms may prefer a small tabletop fan that won’t take up floor space. Likewise, anyone who’d like their fan to pull double duty on a home office desk or in a living room might look for something small and portable. The loudest small fans can handle this job.

However, if you need a lot of airflow or noise, you’re going to need a bigger, more substantial fan. For these shoppers, a traditional box fan, window fan, or pedestal fan may be best, and most of these fans are still portable .

White noise is really the icing on the cake for a typical fan. The main purpose of a strong fan is to provide airflow and circulation. There are two ways to control a fan’s airflow: the size of the fan blades (which is a factor the manufacturer determines, and some fans don’t even have blades ) and motor speed.

Manufacturers equip fans with adjustable speeds so you can change the amount of air the fan moves. Even cheap box fans are adjustable. This allows you to dial the fan back if it’s getting chilly or ramp it up when they need to move some serious air. However, understand that the slower the fan is running, the less noise it will typically make.

Additional Features 

There are plenty of additional features you may want to consider. For those who just need a fan to help them fall asleep, a fan with a built-in timer that shuts it off after an hour or two can be helpful. For a gentle breeze across an entire room, oscillation might be key. Some models also come with remotes that users can grab to adjust airflow or turn the fan off from the comfort of their bed. Others may include features that enhance stability, such as bases that clamp down onto an end table or feet that adjust to improve stability on an uneven surface.

Q. Where should I keep my fan for white noise?

While it may make sense that moving a fan closer will help you make the most of its white noise, a fan should be at least a few feet away from your face while sleeping. Fans can circulate dirty, dry air, and this can cause a sore throat, a dry nose, or other issues.

Q. Is it OK to play white noise all night?

There are a lot of debates on the use of white noise for sleeping. While most researchers agree that it can help restless sleepers, some believe that listening to white noise all night can cause issues for people who suffer from tinnitus, or ringing in the ears.

Q. How many speeds do fans for white noise usually come with?

The most common number of speeds for a white noise fan is three. This includes low, medium, and high, and you can adjust the speeds according to their airflow or noise needs.

Q. What type of fan is best for white noise?

Purely from a white noise perspective, the best fan is a box fan. These fans are loud, move a lot of air, and are usually inexpensive. They can be used with the window open or closed and they can sit on a dresser or the floor.

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Whether you're struggling with loud neighbors, living above a busy street, or just can't stand total silence in your bedroom at night, the best fans for white noise can perform dual purposes: keeping your bedroom cool while filling the airwaves with a light background noise that can lull you to sleep. But there are a lot of fans out there, ranging from small ones that are whisper quiet to workhorses that might be too loud for you. So, what should you look for in a white noise fan?

What To Look For In A White Noise Fan

First and foremost, keep your space in mind as you shop for the best fan for sleeping . There are plenty of fans for white noise that come in a variety of types, from a taller tower fan to a box fan you might place in your window. This may go without saying, but the larger your bedroom, the more powerful you'll want your fan to be. However, if you're primarily looking for a fan for the white noise it provides instead of its cooling features, room size might not matter quite as much as you shop. And, if you are looking to mimic the sound of a white noise fan without any of the breeze, you might be better off with a white noise machine .

Scroll on for the 11 best white noise fans on Amazon that’ll get you to sleep in no time.

Shop The Best Fans For Sleeping With White Noise

In a hurry? Here are the most soothing fans.

A Popular Box Fan For White Noise: Genesis Box Fan

A small desktop fan: lasko platinum desktop wind tower, the editor favorite: lasko wind curve electric oscillating tower fan, a low-profile personal fan: honeywell 2-speed personal fan, a stronger (& louder) fan for your whole room: vornado whole room air circulator fan.

• A Budget-Friendly Model: Comfort Zone 3-Speed 12-inch Oscillating Table Fan

A Portable White Noise Fan: Treva Clip Fan

A powerful fan that cools like an ac: lasko high-velocity pro pivoting utility fan, a “wind machine” white noise fan: lasko 3300 wind machine, a powerful, industrial fan: air king industrial grade fan, a tiny white noise machine: marpac dohm sound machine fan.

• Also available on Home Depot , $35

White noise sleepers widely consider box fans like this one from Genesis to be one of the best options, because they're often the loudest. This one has three speed settings you can operate with a convenient dial. It features a copper motor, and it's great for a constant sound. It’s earned a 4.6-star overall rating on Amazon, with more than 4,500 ratings in total. Plus, the manufacturer offers a one-year warranty .

According to a reviewer: “This is a powerful box fan. It works perfectly. It is sorta loud and we keep it on the lowest setting. But I really like the white noise it creates. Helps me sleep. It also drowns out my boyfriend’s snoring pretty well.”

A Budget-Friendly Table Fan: Comfort Zone 3-Speed 12-inch Oscillating Table Fan

• Also available on Walmart , $27

For less than $20, the Comfort Zone fan is a popular choice on Amazon, with a 4.5-star overall rating after more than 2,500 reviews. It has three speeds that are adjustable using buttons on the base, and it has an adjustable tilt so you can get airflow where you need it. Plus, it oscillates so you can cover a wide area.

According to a reviewer: “This fan is easy to assemble, quiet and every feature works perfectly, just as the description states. I use it in the bedroom every night. No rattling or any other annoying sounds that many other fans create. I wasn't sure how good this would be since it isn't in the pricier category but, I couldn't be happier with this fan. Great buy at a great price!”

• Also available on Walmart , $34

If you're looking for a compact fan for your apartment, this small but powerful oscillating tower should do the trick. It has three speed settings that are easy to adjust using the buttons on its base. Best of all, the space-saving stacked design features two separate sections that pivot independently for even wider coverage.

According to a reviewer: “Love this fan. I was looking for a fan that was not to big but that had very good whitenoise for sleeping. This one was perfect.”

• Also available on Home Depot , $72

With three speed settings, you’ll be able to customize your white noise with this tower fan . And thanks to the Bluetooth compatibility, you can control it all from your phone from up to 75 feet away. The oscillation is wide and there’s a timer function that’s great for sleep. “I've had this Lasko tower fan for over a year, and it is a lifesaver for my hot apartment,” says Bustle editor Amy Biggart . “This fan has three speeds, each of which produce a white noise at different intensities. It's surprisingly powerful on its highest speed, and I love that I can control it via an app from anywhere in my space.”

According to a reviewer: “My boyfriend and I have to sleep with a fan on us every night, mostly for the white noise sound in the background, but also we are warm sleepers. This fan has been life-changing. [...] We've been using it for a little over a month now and I genuinely have nothing bad to say. It looks way better in our bedroom than the typical bulky box fan, and it just works. Our big dogs also love laying in front of it as well during the hot Florida summers.”

• Also available on Walmart , $40

If you want something that's noticeable, but a bit more subtle, there's the Honeywell personal fan . It has two speeds that can be adjusted via a knob on the front, and it fits on desks, tabletops, and nightstands. With a one-year warranty in case you run into any issues, this fan is a safe home purchase that plenty of Amazon reviewers wish they had found sooner.

According to a reviewer: “Powerful and sleek. The low setting is actually quite powerful and we rarely use it on high. We got this for our bedside table to run at night. It does give off a white noise sound from the fan but that is exactly what we wanted.”

• Also available on Walmart , $96

If more airflow is what you’re looking for, this small Vornado fan is the way to go. It uses the brand’s signature “vortex action” to circulate air up to 70 feet. Instead of hearing the mechanical sound of blades, though, you actually hear whooshing air. The fan can be tilted to achieve the right angle, and it has three speed settings that can be adjust using a knob on its base.

According to a reviewer: “This fan is a monster. Went above and beyond my expectations. Very well built, easy to use, and POWERFUL! Close your eyes and buy it if you need a quick relief and a cold breeze of air in this hot summer. Yes, the white noise puts me in a deep sleep every night. I should have bought this earlier. Happy happy happy!”

• Also available on Walmart , $19

This battery-operated clip fan measures in at only 5 inches, so it’s a great option for traveling, and reviewers have raved that it delivers just the right amount of white noise for sleeping. It offers two speeds, and the head pivots so you can aim the direction of airflow in any direction you choose. Pro tip: The clip is perfect for attaching the fan to a headboard or bedside table.

According to a reviewer: “Bought this product for our travel trailer. We like it, the noise level is low and does not disturb our sleep. I also use it when working on stain glass to get rid of the fumes. I am pleased with this product.”

• Also available on Home Depot , $64

The Lasko utility fan has a pivoting high-velocity airstream blower that outputs loads of air and a nice, constant noise. With three speeds that can be set with the adjustable dial, it's ideal for super hot sleepers (one reviewer even noted that “Everyone asks if it is an AC”), but it's not so loud that it disrupts sleep.

According to a reviewer: “I am one of many in this world that like to sleep with fan noises, but also the breeze. I have gone through many fans in my life, many didn’t last long, or were disappointing. NOT THIS FAN THOUGH! This is the best fan hands down, especially if you like to sleep covered up! This thing will MOVE air and has a very nice soothing sound.”

• Also available on Walmart , $55

This Lasko Wind Machine has large 20-inch blades and a pivoting head for optimum air flow. There’s a convenient carrying handle to move it from room to room. This fan has three speeds so you can pick your preference, and it weighs under 10 pounds, making it portable enough to move from room to room.

According to a reviewer: “Really impressed with this fan...excuse me, wind machine. It's large, but fits in on a window ledge perfectly. The main reason I got it was for the noise reviews. I really wanted a fan that would keep my bedroom cool, and also provide some good white noise to sleep too. The fan is excellent on both counts! It's mostly plastic parts, so no rattling/metal vibration sounds. Would purchase again.”

• Also available on Home Depot , $119

According to many reviewers, the Air King fans are the way to go if you want plenty of power as well as a soothing white noise. This floor fan has a pivoting head, powder-coated steel blades, and a mounting option for more versatility. It measures 20 inches in width, but it comes in a few different sizes if this isn't the best one for your space.

According to a reviewer: "It does exactly what it says it does. It moves the air! It is a powerful fan. It is more quiet than some other hassock fans but if you are looking for something that is noise free, this isn't it. Has a lovely white noise hum to it that's perfect for sleeping. This is not your average box fan. It's great outdoors when sitting on the porch or out in the yard. It's great as an exhaust fan to pull the old stale air out of the house.”

• Also available on Yogasleep , $47

Whether you're traveling light or it's too cold to deal with airflow, this sound machine was specifically created to drown out the world with a relaxing fan noise. That's because it's got actual asymmetrical blades inside that create the soothing sound of rushing air without pushing any around. With nearly 20,000 Amazon reviewers weighing in, this white noise machine is tried and true. It's a great way to experience the sound of a white noise fan without any of the cooling effects.

According to a reviewer: "I sleep so much better with using this little wonder! It is extremely easy to use. Love that you can customize the level of white noise at any time. Better than using a regular fan for white noise because it's not blowing air around and making me cold when I don't want the breeze.... I would recommend to everyone!”

This article was originally published on July 27, 2017

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6 Best Quiet Fans for Sleeping & White Noise – Rated for 2024

Last Updated on January 10, 2024

Written by Melanie Kassel

Written by Melanie Kassel, Performance Editor

Our testing process.

Here at Sleep Advisor, our Sleep Certified experts use a refined mattress and product testing process to give you unbiased product suggestions… Read our full product review process .

.st0{clip-path:url(#SVGID_00000046340743257271907690000000964648354283835324_);} In This Article

Are you looking for a great nighttime fan? In our guide, we’ve reviewed the best fans for sleeping to help you stay cool all night long.

Do you have trouble falling asleep during the warm summer months? If so, a great fan can certainly do the trick!

When temperatures rise, it can be a challenge to stay cool and feel comfortable enough to fall asleep. As if that weren’t enough of a struggle, there may be extra noise in your home and neighborhood because kids are up late and playing, and neighbors are more likely to be outside making noise.

In this article, we’ll share  6 fans that we believe are perfect for sleeping – they are an economical and effective way to cool off while blocking out some of the extra noise that’s preventing you from getting your beauty rest.

Unless you’ve got a powerful AC and a soundproof bedroom sanctuary, you’re probably looking for a fan, and we hope you’ll find the right one here.

6 Best Fans for Sleeping

Our top 6 fans for sleeping reviewed, honeywell quiet set tower.

HIGHLIGHTS:

• Quiet yet powerful
• Easy to assemble
• Auto shut off timer

CLICK TO SEE PRICE

This Honeywell Quietset hits the mark in a variety of categories. Slim yet durable, this fan is easy to assemble upon receiving. It’s got eight fan speeds which you can customize to your liking, and the white noise it emits should be incredibly soothing to fall asleep to and keeps you sleeping throughout the night.

iHome Compact Circulator Machine

• Dual Speeds
• Smart Plug Preset
• 12 Sound Settings
• Universal Adapter (100-240V)
• Customizable airflow

The iHome Compact Circulator Machine is a relatively unique fan for sleeping in that it’s not only a cooling sleep aid but it offers soothing sound programs as well (ocean, storm, focus, and more), providing calming white noise to lull you to sleep. It’s got a SmartPlug for voice control and a timer for ultimate convenience. It also includes a universal adapter, so if you happen to change locations frequently this can be a significant perk.

Additionally, this fan lays flat but can be uniquely adjusted, as it tips upward instead of revolving, letting its user customize the ventilation in a multitude of directions. It also includes a handy timer setting letting you cool your room and walk away with ease knowing it won’t waste unnecessary electricity, making it an excellent environmentally conscious choice. With all the capabilities this little fan boasts it’s a top contender for the best sleeping fan.

Holmes 12 Inch Blizzard Floor Fan

• Cord storage
• Breeze and sleep modes
• 3 speeds settings
• Rotating grill for maximum area coverage
• Remote control
• Travel handle
• Timer for auto-shutoff

Despite a slightly higher price tag than its cheaper counterparts, this device offers an excellent value due to its efficient cooling abilities. Setting it apart is its rotating grill, which evenly distributes air throughout an entire room without over-concentrating in one direction. The Blizzard has two “breeze” modes and three speed settings for customization, as well as a travel handle for portability.

This device has a remote so you can easily adjust the settings from anywhere in the room. Including a timer function, this fan offers a variety of programs making it first class for convenience. It even comes with a little compartment built into the back of the fan to fold away an extra cord, saving you from searching for it when the time presents itself. When deciding on the right machine for snoozing, it’s the little things that make all the difference.

Hunter Indoor Ceiling Fan

• Reversible blades
• Reversible fan motor
• Multi-speed settings
• Pull chain control
• 3-inch & 2-inch ceiling downrods for optimal placement

Ceiling fans are an excellent choice for both cooling and warming a room depending on the time of year. Because this fan can reverse its motor and blades, it should efficiently do both, making it one of the more versatile cooling options in our guide. This fan moves air effectively while maintaining a quiet performance, and can easily be adjusted for height with two different downrods to ensure proper ceiling placement, allowing for optimal ventilation.

It’s a great option for most bedrooms as it can be controlled with a voice command device when connected to a smart plug, saving you from standing up in the middle of the night to adjust the airflow. One highlight this fan doesn’t boast, that many others do, is a timer function,hich most ceiling fans don’t offer.However, with its other optimized functions, we don’t think you’ll need it.

Dyson Air Multiplier Table Fan

• Extremely quiet
• Air Multiplier Technology
• Energy efficient
• Sleep Timer
• Magnetized remote control
• Oscillation control

This device is notably unique in that there are no blades, so if you happen to have children or pets this makes it an excellent choice if one of your main concerns is safety. It also has a helpful timer function that’s remarkably customizable, allowing you to adjust the offtime within 15 minutes increments. If you’re worried about electricity consumption, this fan uses 30% less power than many others, making it a top environmental choice as well.

It presents a novel look with its circular shape and contemporary style, offering a more aesthetically pleasing option than some of the more traditional styles. This machine also tilts making for easy breeze management. Rounding out its features is a remote control, letting you control the cooling and oscillation functions from anywhere in a room. The remote is slightly curved and magnetized to fit neatly against the device, saving you from misplacing it.

Hurricane Box Floor Fan

• Cord storage compartment
• 5-foot power cord
• Adjustable feet
• 3 speed settings

While box fans are often on the more affordable end of the spectrum and offer plenty of power, they often miss the mark in terms of noise, but the Hurricane Box Fan defeats that limitation with ease. Despite the box fan’s simple reputation, this machine is of high quality and offers exceptional value for the retail price. It’s perfect for a larger area that tends to collect heat, such as a garage, workshed, kitchen or sun-drenched bedroom.

This device’s extraordinary combination of quietness and power makes it a solid option for sleeping. When compared to some of the common teardrop styles, it’s blade shape boasts quieter revolutions without compromising efficiency or powerful air movement. The base is sturdy and solid, so you can be confident of placement, and the feet are not only adjustable, but mounted, detented, and can be locked into place for secure positioning.

Different Types of Fans for Sleeping

How to choose the best fan for sleeping according to experts.

Sleeping in an environment that’s too warm could cost valuable Zz’s, affect concentration, and even influence our overall health. There are a million different cooling options these days and combing through reviews within the plethora of cooling options can be exhausting. In this guide, we do the work for you, narrowing down the choices to only the best fans to help you get on the road to cool sleeping in now time.

Box fans are remarkably affordable, and they’re ideal if you’re looking to not break the bank while still sleeping cool throughout those hot summer nights. Box fans are also some of the best energy savers, optimizing your electric bill and your wallet. They’re a great value and environmentally conscious to boot.

These powerful fans work by directly blowing air, creating an instant cooling force, and tend to have higher CFM (cubic feet per minute). The greater the CFM, the more powerful the product, and the sounder you’ll sleep.

Additionally, they are notably versatile due to their portability. Considering the fact that you can bring them anywhere, you don’t have to stress about deciding which room to cool, in case multiple fans aren’t in the budget. Place it in the kitchen for the evening, and move it in the bedroom when you’re ready to go to sleep, they’re one of the best when looking to enjoy a comfortable climate throughout your home.

Desk-top fans provide many of the same perks as box fans in that they’re conveniently portable and easy to tuck under a bed or in a closet when you’re not sleeping. Their small size makes them an excellent candidate for anyone needing to cool a small bedroom when looking for a quality night’s sleep.

Due to their smaller stature, desk-top fans are easily directed without the cumbersome size of a larger device. Whether you’re trying to chill an apartment with limited space, or provide a cool blast of airflow for larger homes, this fan should accomplish the task. While they’re nifty for sleeping or a workspace, they can double as kitchen fans or keep you from melting into your couch.

Pedestal or stand-up fans as they’re often referred to, have large fan blades and are generally more powerful than a more compact tower fan, making them a great option for larger spaces.

Despite their size, airflow concentration is easily managed to keep you cool while sleeping, and they often allow you to control the height if you prefer a more concentrated blast. Most of these types offer oscillating capabilities, sending a cooling breeze in all directions, and their wide base provides a sturdy foundation, making them difficult to knock over if you’ve got little ones running around.

These machines are not only cheap to buy, they’re effective in the power-saving department as well. Because they don’t use much electricity, they’ll save you a bundle on your electricity bill compared to traditional air conditioners, often costing less than $7 a month running on a nightly basis.

Tower fans are superb if you prefer a sleeker look that blends into its surroundings and offers a more aesthetic temperature solution for sleeping cool. More contemporary in design than traditional fans, they’re often only a few feet tall and relatively narrow. This allows them to fit nicely into a corner and occupy minimal space making them a popular choice for smaller bedrooms or apartments.

Tower fans offer a variety of functions, boasting significant convenience. If you tend to run hot when you’re sleeping at night, but wake up cool, this type of fan can be a solid solution as many feature timer settings, allowing you to snooze away assured that you won’t wake up freezing, or waste unnecessary energy overnight.

They oscillate 90 degrees, efficiently circulating air, and they can even come with built-in misters, or ionizers, which will filter your air. They sift out dust, pollen, and animal dander, making them a great choice for anyone who suffers from allergies

Ceiling fans are not only excellent for their primary function as a cooling fan but because they are permanent fixtures they can also spruce up a bedroom and add a touch of style as well. Ceiling fans are relatively inexpensive and once installed, are cheap to run round the clock, saving you from the heat and any surprises upon opening your electric bill.

Ceiling fans may seem cut and dry however they offer some surprises you may not be aware of. Besides cooling a room, you can change their rotation, or reverse the blades, and heat a bedroom as well. This works by drawing cool air upwards, instead of pushing it down as you normally would, allowing warm air to collect at ground level.

Window fans are different from the rest of the list in that they actually pull in fresh air from the outside, instead of simply circulating existing air. Additionally, you can flip the rotation of the blades and use a window fan in exhaust mode, pushing stale air out.

Users hail window fans to be just as efficient and customizable as air conditioners but at a fraction of the cost. However, while they’ll keep you nice and cool, they still might make your electricity bill jump a bit higher than the other options on the list.

Due to the advanced motor and sensory functions that window fans boast these days, this makes them a brilliant option for convenience and even more so if you’re short on space, as they should fit snugly in your window. With programmable timers and thermostats, you should be able to fall asleep at a comfortable temperature knowing it’ll stay that way and not wake up in a polar frost.

Choosing the Right Fan for Sleeping

While a small fan should still provide a nice gush of airflow and circulation, if you want the entire room to be comfortable and not simply a concentrated area, it’s important to pick a fan that’ll be up to the task. You don’t want to be confined to the same position all night to avoid sweating through your sheets.

An easy way to do this is to measure the length and width of a bedroom and multiply those together. If it’s smaller than 75 square feet, a ceiling fan that is 36 inches or less across should work great. If the bedroom is larger, we suggest aiming for a larger fan.

Noise can be an important factor when it comes to fans and your environment. If you live near a busy street you may want a louder fan to cancel out cars or foot traffic, providing a nice hum of white noise to lull you into a soft slumber.

However, if you’re sensitive to noise and live in a quiet neighborhood, you may want something that will keep you cool while creating barely a whisper.

Blade Length

The longer the fan blades, the more air they’ll move, so if you’re only looking to cool a small bedroom, a medium or small size oscillating fan should work just fine. However, if you’re looking to cool a larger living room or outdoor patio that’s 75 square feet or up, you’ll want to size up.

Temperature Control

Technology these days can be an advantage when you’re looking for a smart fan that will keep you cool all night without giving you a chill. Many fans have advanced temperature gauges allowing you to set your fan to a specific degree, so it won’t overdo it waking you up in a frost at two in the morning.

Advanced Features

• Remote Control – having a remote is helpful if you have a larger area, or simply if you enjoy living the good life and prefer to not lift a finger.
• Night mode – night mode is convenient if you’re sensitive to light as this will dim any illuminated buttons. Additionally, if you don’t need your fan going full force in the middle of the night it could help you save on your electric bill.
• Oscillation – having a fan that oscillates, or turns continuously at a 90-degree angle, can be a wonderfully efficient way for maximizing fan use. Also, this way, it distributes a cool breeze throughout a room.
• Portability – the portable nature of a fan comes into play if you’ve got a large device, as having it on rollers can make a big difference in portability

Advantages of Using a Fan to Sleep

There are more benefits to staying cool while sleeping than comfort. Sleeping in a cooler room has actually been shown to increase your metabolism as well. This is because while your body is trying to regulate your temperature, it produces more brown fat. Don’t worry, brown fat is good for you, it produces heat to manage body temperature, which stimulates your metabolism. Who knew something as simple as running a fan could provide a healthier environment for your bod?

White Noise

Did you know you could passively improve your hearing while you sleep? White noise could  enhance your auditory capabilities, according to the University of Basel. Sleeping with a continuous background of white noise provides a more stimulating environment for the brain, rousing the hearing function, essentially working out the hearing muscles. As a result, the ability to distinguish slight differences in tone becomes stronger and more precise.

Additionally, if you live in a neighborhood with a bit of street noise, running a fan is a great way to diffuse any external stimuli that might interrupt precious Zz’s. Fans provide a soft background hum to lull you to sleep and stay that way until morning.

With the high levels of stress we experience in our daily lives, it’s important to recharge at night with quality sleep. Getting proper airflow throughout the night can significantly improve your quality of sleep and next day performance . This is because humans need a healthy level of CO2 in order to perform at a high capacity. Something that can dramatically help in this department, is, you guessed it, a fan.

Improving your supply of clean outdoor air can help optimize quality of sleep so you can wake up ready to take on the day. Allowing fresh air in through a window with a nearby fan to facilitate airflow can help individuals greet each morning with the grit for success.

Tips for Safe Use of Fan for Sleeping

For the most part, the majority of people already know how to use a fan safely. However, we’ve got a few tips that may not have crossed your mind. We figured it might be wise to refresh our memories, just in case.

Don’t Point Directly at your Body

Naturally, the point of using a fan is to enjoy it within its cooling radius, but pointing one directly at yourself for a long period of time, particularly while you sleep, can dry out your nose or have you waking up with cramped muscles due to too much cold air.

Keep the Blades Clean

If the blades on a fan are dirty you’re going to be spreading all those dust particles throughout the air, defeating the purpose of ventilating your home. Clean your blades regularly while the fan is off and unplugged, and you should be good to go.

Use the timer

Many fans now come with a handy timer setting, allowing you to go to bed feeling comfortable, with the peace of mind that you won’t wake up in an ice box the next morning.

Moisturize Your Skin

Fans, while they can be considered essential during the summertime, can cause your skin to be in need of a little extra love. Make sure to slather on the lotion before bed so your face will love your fan just as much as you do.

Possible Alternatives for Fans for Sleeping

White noise machine.

If you’re looking for the benefits of a subtle hum to drown out the streets outside your window but don’t necessarily need the cooling capabilities, a sound machine emitting white noise can work wonders for sleeping quality.

Cooling Mattresses

If you’re constantly flipping your pillow or your partner runs hot, investing in a mattress with cooling abilities might be a great option. What makes it special is that a cooling mattress has copper inside, which works like a magnet with heat, pulling in warmth and away from you.

Explore our top picks for the best cooling mattresses . 

If turning up the fan isn’t helping, consider a cooling mattress topper. New-age mattress toppers contain gels or other breathable elements to help you “turn down” the temperature at night.

Explore our top picks for the best cooling mattress toppers . 

These contraptions haven’t quite become mainstream yet but they’re remarkably clever for saving a buck. A bed AC unit is basically an air-conditioned tent, specifically built for your bed. Instead of air conditioning your entire house, you can simply air-condition your bed. Pretty smart, right? They’re significantly more affordable and customizable than a traditional AC unit, and they double as a privacy screen if you’re bunking in college dorms.

See Our Guide: Top Rated Bed Fans

Reduce Heat at Night

Reducing heat at night, whether it’s by opening windows or increasing your AC, can save you from sleeping uncomfortably and enable you to catch those precious Zz’s we all need. It’s understandable to avoid turning on the air conditioner until you’re dripping with sweat in order to save on your electric bill, however if you’re having trouble sleeping soundly, this will inevitably cost you more in the long run by way of sleep deprivation and loss of focus on the job.

Frequently Asked Questions about Fans for Sleeping

What is the best fan for white noise.

The iHome Compact Circulator is an ideal choice for keeping you cool as well as maintaining a calm environment to sleep in. It’s been hailed as having a soothing atmospheric sound ideal to curl up to, and has even been claimed to cancel out a partner’s snoring habit, allowing you to sleep uninterrupted.

What does night mode on a fan do?

If you’re the type to fixate on a slight sliver of light poking through poorly drawn curtains, night mode is for you. It dims or ceases illuminated lights on an electronic display so you should be able to sleep undisturbed from blinking lights. Night mode could also play a small part in saving on your electric bill, as you can set it to turn your fan off an hour or so after you plan to fall asleep.

What is the best fan for cooling?

When researching the best fans for cooling we kept coming across the Honeywell Quietset Tower Fan , and its popularity can’t be ignored. With 8 different speeds, it creates easily customizable options and it offers oscillating choices as well, meaning it should keep all corners of a larger bedroom nice and cool in the hot summer months.

What is the most quiet fan?

The Honeywell Quietset Tower Fan knocks it out of the park once again in this department. Users have hailed it as remarkably quiet, yet powerfully cooling. It’s a fan we highly recommend to help you sleep comfortably throughout the summer.

If you’re trying to get to sleep in a noisy room , especially during the warmer summer months, a fan may be incredibly helpful. Not only can it cool you off by evaporating any sweat that’s on your skin, but it can also lull you to sleep with the magic of white noise!

Once you begin shopping for a new ceiling fan, you’ll find that there are thousands to choose from. We spent hours looking for the best, and we think you’ll be pleased with any of these models.

Melanie Kassel

Performance Editor

About Author

As Sleep Advisor’s Performance Editor, Melanie writes and edits content throughout the site to ensure it’s accurate, engaging, and up-to-date.

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PF Score is a ranking system developed by our team of experts. It from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our AI Consumer Report tool based upon the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Read more How We Rank .

• Brand Honeywell

FANS FOR BEDROOM AND SLEEP –The DreamWeaver Sleep Fan is more than a sound machine. Use the constant, soothing pink noise for sound blocking with or without airflow. The personal fan is ideal for year-round use, and makes a great holiday or house gift

CONTROL AIRFLOW – With this oscillating fan, you’ll always be comfortable and can direct airflow where and how you want it. It features a unique on/off airflow shutter, pivot and oscillation, so you can customize your favorite sleep setting

SOOTHING PINK NOISE – Similar to a white noise fan, the pink noise in this portable fan is a mix of high and low frequencies, so it sounds more balanced and soothing than traditional white noise

DIMMABLE LIGHTS – This cooling fan is sleep friendly, and features 4 light dimming settings that provide a hint of light plus an “off” selection for full darkness. It also includes a touch-sensitive, easy tap area with 3 powerful fan speeds

GREAT GIFTS: Stumped on gift ideas. Give Honeywell quality. Honeywell offers whole room fans, tower fans and oscillating fans that are a great choice for even the hardest to buy for

Vornado FIT Personal Air Circulator Fan with Fold-Up Design, Directable Airflow, Compact Size, Perfect for Travel or Desktop Use, Aqua

• Brand Vornado

FOLD-UP DESIGN — Compact, folding design makes it portable and perfect for travel, desktop, or bedside use and easy to store.

SIMPLE CONTROLS — 2 speed settings with directable airflow to tailor your air comfort.

OPTIMUM PERFORMANCE — Utilizes Vornado signature Vortex action for optimal personal air circulation.

STYLISH DESIGN — Fun, stylish translucent blade and base will add flair and comfort to your space.

SUPERIOR SUPPORT — Backed by a 3-year hassle-free promise and supported by a customer service team based in Andover, KS.

Built to meet U. S. voltage requirements. Certified, safety-tested, and warrantied for use only in the U. S.

Honeywell HTF090B Turbo on the Go Personal Fan, Black – Small, Portable Fan

SMALL, POWERFUL PERSONAL FAN – The Honeywell Turbo on the Go Personal Fan is the perfect choice for staying cool when you’re on the go. This portable fan is battery or USB powered and has a 3 foot air circulation range1..Wattage : 250 watts.Number of speeds:1

PORTABLE – This small USB fan is ideal as a travel fan, for the gym, your desk and much more. It has a handle for carrying or hanging and an aerodynamic turbo design that is powerful enough to feel from 3 feet away1.

INCREASE YOUR COMFORT – With this small battery fan, you’ll always be comfortable and cool. Customize your space and cooling to however you like it with this small portable fan.

SMART SAVINGS – Fans for home are an easy way to cool down any space and improve airflow. Give your air conditioner a break by using a portable indoor fan to help reduce your energy consumption and costs.*

HONEYWELL QUALITY – Help improve cooling and energy savings* anywhere in your home like the living room, bedroom or office using a Honeywell fan. We offer personal fans, whole room fans, tower fans and oscillating fans that are a great choice.

Bladeless Neck Fan -Personal Portable Fan - Neck Air Conditioner - 360° Cooling Wearable Fan - Low Noise, Travel Fan for Outdoor, Camping, Office

• Brand FONTAR

RIYA Bladeless Neck Fan - 5200mAh Personal Portable Fan - Neck Air Conditioner - 360° Cooling Wearable Fan - Low Noise, Up to 20Hrs Rechargeable Battery Fan - Travel Fan for Outdoor, Camping, Office

【Super Battery Life】- Built-in 5200mAh high-capacity battery, which can be used for up to 20 hours when fully charged. Bring you a longer cool experience.

【Quickly Cooling】- 360° surround air supply, the air volume is increased by 90%. Fast cooling in 3 seconds. There are 3-speeds to meet your needs. Keep you cool all summer long.

【Adjustable Gooseneck】- The neck is made of food grade silicone material, which is more comfortable to wear. It can be effectively non-slip, flexible and not easy to break, and the angle can be adjusted at will. It can also prevent neck discomfort caused by heat when the machine is used for a long time.

【Low Noise & Bladeless】- Turbine design, no fan blades supply air, no longer worry about hair getting stuck. The motor uses the noise reduction function, low noise, and it will not interfere with your ears.

【Portable & Comfortable】- Only 9.5 ounces, the personal neck fan is super light and reduces neck pressure. Hands-free headphone design, free your hands anytime, anywhere; stylish style makes you look cool.

【Type-C Charging】- Portable fan, can be easily charged by computer, adapter, power bank, laptop, etc. A full charge takes just 3 hours.

【Suitable for Any Scenes】- The hanging neck fan is ideal for outdoor activities such as personal cooling, office, patio, camping, traveling, hiking, climbing and watching sports. Hanging on the neck, suitable for hot weather, to avoid the embarrassment of sudden sweating in public places, it is a good helper for your summer.

【Warranty】- We provide high-quality after-sales guarantee, if you have any problem with the product, please feel free to contact us.

Lasko SB100 SlumberBreeze 2-in-1 Small Table Fan and White Noise Machine for Better Sleep in the Bedroom and Focus in the Home Office, Black

• Brand Lasko

Innovative 2-in-1 small table fan and white noise machine addresses 2 common household needs for adults, children, and even babies -- a more comfortable and distraction-free home environment

Promotes better sleep at night and better concentration and focus during the day with white noise machine function; includes 5 white noise frequency settings so you can dial in the best sound for you

Creates cooling comfort with 2 fan settings and widespread oscillation; use white noise and fan modes independently for year-round comfort in the bedroom, home office, living room, and other relaxation or workspace

Fits perfectly on a bedside table or desk at 8.38” H x 5.39” W x 5.55” D; includes a USB port for charging a phone or other device while you sleep or work; a fabric-textured finish makes this fan & white noise machine an attractive addition to any room

Simple dial control on top allows you to select from 5 white noise profiles so you can find the sound that works best for relaxation or focus; plus 2 additional touch controls on the front for selecting fan speed and oscillation mode

Portable No Blades Neck Fan, [no hair tangling] hands-free USB personal neckband fan, 360 ° rotation and low noise strong airflow headphone design, suitable for sports, office, home, outdoor, Travel (Black)

• Brand Lrufodya

[Specially designed leafless] to prevent tangled hair: The latest design, using a leafless design, improves the problem of tangling hair, and long-haired girls no longer have to worry about tangling hair. This hands-free personal fan has a low / medium / high 3-speed rating, you can adjust the appropriate fan speed by pressing the power button. Natural wind makes you feel comfortable and cool in the hot summer.

[Portable Size]: Personal fan design, minimum size: 310 * 190mm. Lightweight, easy to carry and store. It is also an ideal wearable fan for kids and ladies friends summer camping gifts.

[USB charging fan]: Built-in 2000mAh rechargeable lithium battery, you can charge the fan through the USB cable. The USB cable that comes with the fan is compatible with any USB port, such as computers, laptops, power banks, and regular outlets. Due to different speeds, the working time is 3-10 hours (depending on the wind speed used).

[Sports Fan]: A hands-free personal fan, you absolutely do not want to take the fan while walking. The unique hands-free and earphone design can hang the fan around your neck. More importantly, due to its lightweight mini design. Hanging the fan for a long time will not make you feel uncomfortable or bound. Suitable for various occasions, sports, desks, offices, travel, etc.

[Creative design, beautiful gift] The USB fan uses a very small and novel headphone design. Every fashion person deserves it. The colors are more complete. You will definitely envy everyone who has a headset fan.

Last update on Jun 15, 2023 5:50 PM / Affiliate links / Images, Product Titles, and Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

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• Small home appliances

The Best Fan

A good fan should make you feel more comfortable while also being energy-efficient, gentle on the ears, and easy to control. For almost a decade, we’ve tested dozens of fans, and we consistently land on the Vornado 630 Medium Air Circulator as our first recommendation.

Everything we recommend

Vornado 630 Medium Air Circulator

Power and proven durability.

This compact fan can send breezes to the far corners of a large room. It’s also relatively easy to control and clean, and it has a long-established record of reliability.

Buying Options

Vornado 660 AE Large Air Circulator with Alexa

A turbo-powered alternative.

This impressively powerful room circulator comes with built-in Alexa capabilities, so you can voice-control the breeze.

Upgrade pick

Vornado Silver Swan Alchemy

A powerful fan with a vintage vibe.

This fan performs and sounds practically the same as our top pick. But it adds oscillation, a sturdy metal construction, and an attractive retro design.

Vornado 610DC Energy Smart Medium Air Circulator

Pinpoint control and energy efficiency.

This fan’s high price is offset by its infinitely adjustable fan speed, energy efficiency, and a 10-year warranty.

Dreo PolyFan 513S

Smart, powerful, and put on a pedestal.

This smart, energy-efficient fan is 44 inches tall and oscillates side to side as well as up and down.

Budget pick

Dreo Fox One

Effective and affordable.

This inexpensive fan is quiet and effective, without ever feeling cheap.

The Vornado 630 Medium Air Circulator is a simple, powerful, and reliable fan that can move huge amounts of air without making too much noise.

The vortex created by this fan circulates all of the air in a room better than an oscillating fan, without the distraction of intermittent gusts. This fan is compact, without any embellishments like a remote or a timer. But the minimalist design touches—including a readily accessible speed-control dial on the side—make the Vornado 630 easy to use, clean, and maintain.

Vornado puts out plenty of fantastic fans, and they’re backed by a five-year warranty. We have found that the 630 in particular offers the best balance of power and energy savings.

The Vornado 660 AE Large Air Circulator comes with built-in Alexa compatibility, but the real appeal lies in the fact that it’s one of the most powerful room circulators we’ve ever tested.

Quieter and less energy-intensive than our top pick, the 660 still produces a substantial breeze you can feel from over 20 feet away—and that’s without using the almost-too-powerful turbo mode.

The onboard controls can be a little tricky to use, but we more often found ourselves relying on the built-in voice commands anyway. We would suggest this model as an excellent option for anyone who may prefer voice or phone control for mobility reasons.

The all-metal Vornado Silver Swan Alchemy is a stylish improvement over the black plastic design of many other air circulators. Its Art Deco aesthetic hearkens back to the earliest Vornado fans, from the 1940s, which were based on an experimental airplane propeller.

This model performs even better than our top pick, thanks to its oscillation ability and rigid metal fan blades, which create a pleasant but powerful breeze throughout the room, without being too loud or grating.

It’s also one of the easiest fans to clean, so you’re more likely to take care of it—which is good, since it’s a genuinely nice home-decor piece.

The Vornado 610DC Energy Smart Medium Air Circulator is a great choice for people who want less noise, more energy savings, and more adjustability overall.

Its infinitely variable speed-control dial allows you to dial in the perfect power setting to match your needs, and to balance that wind with your ideal volume and energy use. It also comes with an exceedingly generous 10-year warranty.

The 610DC isn’t necessarily better at moving air than our top pick—but these features do make for a nicer experience overall, even if this fan is more expensive. Fortunately, you’ll be able to offset the price difference with the money you save in energy costs in just a few years.

The Dreo PolyFan 513S smart fan offers a lot in addition to its height advantages. Its DC-powered motor means it’s quieter and more energy-efficient than most other fans, and its oscillation abilities include three different horizontal arcs options, plus a vertical setting. The result is a fan that seems to paint the room in a multidirectional blanket of breeze.

Although we didn’t love the onboard controls, the PolyFan 513S offers plenty of other options for dialing in your perfect wind, including a remote control, smartphone app, and voice commands. It’s also incredibly easy to clean.

However, its one-year warranty is significantly shorter than those of our other picks, even with the optional 18-month extension.

With a lot of inexpensive fans, you get what you pay for. But that’s not the case with the Dreo Fox One , which performed comparably to our top pick.

The draft it produced didn’t fill up the room with the same robust breeze you get from an air circulator like our top pick—but it came close, while costing about half the price. This fan is easier to clean than the Vornado 630, with a single screw to keep the grille in place and an easily removable blade.

The simple, effective Fox One seems better designed and more durable than other similarly priced models. And that’s a good thing, since it’s covered by only a 30-month warranty.

The research

Why you should trust us, how we picked and tested, the best room fan: vornado 630 medium air circulator, runner-up: vornado 660 ae large air circulator with alexa, upgrade pick: vornado silver swan alchemy, also great: vornado 610dc energy smart medium air circulator, also great: dreo polyfan 513s, budget pick: dreo fox one, why we don’t recommend tower fans, what to look forward to, the competition.

Since we first published this guide, in 2012, we’ve spent dozens of hours researching, testing, and living with fans, and we’ve continued testing our picks for several summers. Over the years, we’ve interviewed a slew of experts who have an intimate knowledge of fans.

We’ve scoured hundreds of models in-store and among the online listings from Target, Amazon, Costco, Home Depot, Lowe’s, and more, seeking well-reviewed fans from reliable companies. We considered air circulators, oscillating fans, and tower fans, among other designs.

To test fans, we measured each model for a range of objective data, including:

• power consumption (by plugging each fan into an energy monitor )
• windspeed (using an anemometer )
• noise output (using a decibel meter , to track the general volume at each setting, and an audio spectrum analyzer app, to note any particularly problematic frequencies)

We also put the fans through a number of more-subjective tests, taking notes on the overall experience of living with each model over the course of a day:

• To see how well a fan actually moved the air, we tested general circulation of the wind around a 120-square-foot bedroom full of papers, fabric, and other things that flutter.
• We looked at how easy it was to clean each fan, including how simple it was to disassemble and put back together, and to maneuver a cloth around the grills to get rid of dust.

We’ve been recommending the Vornado 630 Medium Air Circulator since we first tested it, in 2017. And it continues to offer the best combination of quiet, powerful, and efficient performance at a reasonable price. This basketball-sized air circulator is just 12 inches in diameter, compared with a standard box fan’s measurement of 16 inches square, yet it creates a powerful cooling breeze that will fill most rooms of average size. Simply put, it’s the best overall room fan you can find.

The Vornado 630 blows hard and circulates well. When this fan is on its highest setting, the air it emits can achieve wind speeds of up to nearly 12 mph, and even the low setting produces an impressive 8 mph gust. But what really sets the 630 apart is its unique air-circulating design. Instead of just blasting the air straight ahead, the 630 creates a sort of spiraling helix that keeps the breeze blowing continuously around the room. This design is based on the earliest Vornado fans, from 1945, which in turn were based on the way air moved through early jet engine propellers. If it works well enough for flying, it should work well enough for your bedroom.

The Vornado 630 is impressively energy-efficient. By our measurements, this fan consumes between 38 and 53 watts of power, depending on the setting. Based on average electricity costs in the US , that means you could run the 630 model on high 24/7 for three months in summer, and it would still add only about $14 to your total electric bill (on low it would be about $10). So the 630 is an affordable option for cooling your home or spreading AC air around even more. Some fans use even less energy (including our previous budget pick, from Honeywell), but none of those fans produced the same kind of airflow (with the exception of our DC-powered picks from Vornado and Dreo ).

The 630 produces a pleasant white noise. It’s quieter than normal conversation levels, with no annoying frequencies to drill into your head. At its middle and lower settings, the 630 issued a pleasant buzz that measured between 47 and 49 decibels, and it was easy for us to talk or watch TV over this. The fan was noticeably louder on its highest setting, but even then, the noise still measured only about 56 decibels—less than the 60-decibel cap that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  uses to define “normal conversation levels.” In fact, we’ve found that the white noise created by the 630 is great for muffling street noise. So that’s particularly helpful if you live in a busy city, or you just want a gentle hum to fall asleep to. You can even watch TV with the 630 blowing on high (though you may not want to sit right next to it).

The 630 is relatively easy to maintain and clean . Simply press down on one of the grille clips, and the grille face pops right off, so you don’t have to deal with any screws (though a flathead screwdriver may help you out). Wipe the blades with a towel and some soapy water, and pop the grille back on. If you need to do a deep clean, you can also pop off the fan blades, but that might take a little more elbow grease. Either way, cleaning the 630 should become second nature soon enough, and that means you may be more apt to do regular cleanings.

The Vornado 630 is sturdy and well built. This simple black fan is made of sturdy plastic, so it won’t bend or break like other, cheaper fans we’ve tested from Lasko, Holmes, or Honeywell. And its squat, circular body won’t wobble or topple over—an issue we encountered with several top-heavy tower fans in the past. If anything goes wrong, the 630 also comes with a five-year warranty (PDF) that covers defects in material or workmanship. Vornado’s customer service also has a reliable reputation , with some people reporting that the company helped them out at no cost, even for issues that fell outside of the warranty .

Flaws but not dealbreakers

The Vornado 630 has just three speed settings. This might feel limiting for some people. The Vornado 610DC , one of our upgrade picks, has a speed dial that allows for flexible speed adjustment; even our runner-up, the Vornado 660 AE , has a fourth, “turbo” setting in addition to the standard high/medium/low that you get on most fans. However, both of those models cost about $45 more.

It doesn’t come with a remote, either. We find that remotes are remarkably easy to lose anyway, so they’re only really a perk if you remember where you last put them. But if you are concerned about controlling the 630 remotely, we recommend a smart plug.

Some people don’t like the fact that the Vornado 630 doesn’t oscillate. We’ve heard readers—and family members—complain that they don’t feel the air from the 630. More specifically, they miss that jarring but tangible moment when an oscillating fan points their way, offering a pleasant but fleeting relief from the heat. The Vornado doesn’t provide that exact same sensation, but our tests have shown that it keeps the air in the room moving more consistently, creating more of a steady breeze than a sudden gust. Still, some people really like the brief passing breeze of an oscillating fan, even if it doesn’t actually cool them down as much.

Those with pets may have to spend more time cleaning than others. If there’s a downside to the 630’s powerful wind gusts, it’s that there are a lot of particles constantly moving through the fan blades. If you have pets, all of those little hairs could gum up the grille pretty fast. Even with the 630’s front face popped off, we struggled to access the rear grille area, where some of that hair tends to collect; in the past, we’ve had to use an old toothbrush to clean the area. To be fair, this is a problem common to many fans.

If the Vornado 630 isn’t available, the company makes plenty of other air circulators that will provide a similar experience, including the Alexa-enabled Vornado 660 AE . This 13½-inch-diameter fan is slightly larger than our top pick , with a glossy black finish reminiscent of Darth Vader’s helmet. It performs just as well as our top pick—and sometimes even better.

The 660 AE can produce a wide range of wind speeds. In addition to the standard low, medium, and high settings, the 660 AE also has a turbo option that produces a slightly faster wind gust than our top pick offers. Paired with the larger fan size, this provides an even more robust breeze throughout the room. And the 660 AE still emits roughly the same amount of noise and uses about the same amount of energy as the 630; the only exception is when the 660 AE is in turbo mode—but even then, the trade-off is pretty mild, considering the gale-force winds the fan is emitting.

The smart-home pairing process is a breeze. The 660 AE’s built-in smart-home capability doesn’t offer much improved functionality over plugging a fan into a plug-in smart outlet . But it stands out simply because you don’t have to register a new account or download a separate app to set it up. You can do all of that right from the Alexa app, thanks to the “Works with Alexa” certification. This is a boon for digital privacy, as well as for general convenience. Plus, you get to tell your AI assistant things like, “Set Vornado to turbo!” (This can make you feel like you’re living in a bad sci-fi movie—and, honestly, isn’t that the dream?)

But the controls on the 660 AE aren’t as easy to use without the voice commands. Instead of having a knob on the side (like the 630 does), the 660 AE has five separate buttons on top (a power button and four speed settings). And there’s no visual indicator of the current setting, so you can’t tell at a glance which power level the fan is on (this is annoying, but it’s nothing you can’t solve with voice commands).

It’s not quite as easy to clean. Unlike the 630, which has plastic tabs to keep the grille attached, the 660 AE has three screws that you have to remove to get inside and clean it. The cleaning experience is otherwise pretty similar, for better or worse.

The 660 AE is also more expensive than the 630 (usually by about $50). To be fair, the 660 AE is also larger and has built-in smart features. If you want to save some money, there’s a standard Vornado 660 without Alexa capabilities. There are plenty of similar Vornado air circulators that do the job just about as well, too, including our previous runner-up pick, the Vornado 460 , or the slightly larger Vornado 560 Medium Air Circulator .

The Vornado Silver Swan Alchemy has all the same perks as our other Vornado picks, including room-wide air circulation and a generous, five-year warranty. But unlike the other Vornado fans we recommend, the Silver Swan can also oscillate, to spread a drafty breeze even farther around a room. It’s one of the nicest-looking fans we’ve ever tested, too, with an elegant retro design and a durable metal construction (including the fan blades).

The Silver Swan is the most powerful fan we recommend. Its sturdy metal blades push the air at speeds of up to 13 mph. In our testing, the only fan that performed better than that was the Vornado VFan Senior , a pedestal-mounted fan with a similar design. But the Silver Swan set itself apart even from that model because it could oscillate, resulting in one of the most robust room-wide breezes we experienced.

The Silver Swan is incredibly easy to clean. A single screw holds the brace that keeps the metal cage in place around the fan blades—remove that, and the whole thing opens right up. We found the metal cross bars on the Silver Swan easier to navigate and scrub between than the plastic fins on every other fan we tested. This setup also made it easier to access the metal fan blades. Plus, hey, it’s metal, so you don’t have to worry about pushing too hard and breaking anything. That being said, when you’re trying to put the fan back together, it can be difficult to find the right fit for the brace, since there’s no obvious click when it’s in the right position.

The Silver Swan makes a pretty bold aesthetic statement. A lot of the fans we recommend are visually neutral, at best, blending into the background so no one really pays attention while they do their job. But the Silver Swan is a genuinely attractive piece of hardware, with an Art Deco aesthetic that hearkens back to the early Vornado designs from the 1940s and ’50s. It works better than other fans, and it looks damn elegant while keeping you cool.

But the Silver Swan can be louder and more energy-intensive. This is true on its highest settings, especially when compared with our other picks. We measured the Silver Swan as pulling 63 watts on its highest setting, about 10 watts more than our top pick . This ultimately won’t add that much to your electric bill, but it’s still worth noting (on the Silver Swan’s other settings, its energy use was about the same as that of our top pick). Again, we assume this has something to do with the fan’s metal construction—after all, it takes more energy to move a piece of metal than to move a piece of plastic. Similarly, the Silver Swan can also emit a sort of propeller-like whine on its highest setting. It’s not necessarily louder than our other pick, but the high-pitched, 18,000 Hz buzz might bother some people (though others might enjoy feeling as if they’re in The Rocketeer ).

The Vornado 610DC Energy Smart Medium Air Circulator looks like a swanky white version of our top pick . But its DC-powered motor and continuously variable speed dial are what really set this fan apart; together they give you complete customizable control over the 610DC’s power, volume, and energy use. If you want more control and more energy savings, the 610DC may be worth the higher price.

The Vornado 610DC is incredibly simple to use. Its variable speed dial provides nearly infinite power adjustments. Instead of limiting you to three pre-designated fan speeds, the 610DC runs more like a faucet, letting you set your perfect flow. We found ourselves luxuriating in the speeds in between, turning a whisper into a hum and then again into a breeze—matching the fan’s air and noise output perfectly to what felt best. In the words of one Amazon reviewer , “No more choosing between too little air or full-blown hurricane any more. It can be as quiet as I want it to be, or blow just as hard as I want it, or anywhere in-between.”

It’s also DC-powered, so it’s much more energy-efficient. According to the manufacturer, this fan uses roughly 80% less energy than standard AC-powered fans. Though we don’t know Vornado’s exact methodology for measuring this, that percentage seems accurate enough based on our own test observations. At the highest setting, the 610DC exceeds the 630’s maximum airflow output, while using only as much energy as the 630 does on its lowest setting (about 39 watts). We were also able to get the 610DC as low as 2.1 watts, while still being able to feel the breeze from the fan. You could keep it running at that level all summer, and it would barely cost you 50¢; even if you cranked it up to high, it would add only about $10 to your electric bill over those three months. Getting $5 to $10 in energy savings for a single summer might not seem that impressive, but it can add up over the course of a decade and possibly even save you enough to make up for the initial price difference.

That DC motor also makes this fan quieter than others . On those lower power settings, the 610DC was so quiet in our tests that it was almost imperceptible, and it was impossible to accurately measure over the ambient stillness of a silent room. Even at its absolute highest setting, the 610DC was about the same volume as the 630.

The cleaning process for the 610DC is similar to that of our other Vornado picks. This fan has plastic tabs that are easy to push back, so you can pop off the grille and access the dust gathered inside.

The 610DC also comes with an impressive 10-year warranty. That’s a long time for a fan to be covered. And it’s twice Vornado’s usual five-year warranty, which is already more generous than that of the competition. But we’re big fans (get it?) of Vornado’s reliable customer service, so we’re comfortable recommending a fan that’s guaranteed to last this long.

Our only real complaint is with the clunky transformer box on the 610DC’s power cord. The 610DC’s motor requires a transformer, which is housed in a bulky box on the power cord. The resulting look is not the most elegant, and the cord needs to rest on a surface (as opposed to simply dangling in the air). That said, we haven’t actually had any problems with it becoming unplugged or cumbersome after years of use.

If for some reason the 610DC isn’t big or powerful enough to handle a room, note that Vornado released an even larger version, the Vornado 733DC , in 2022. It’s nearly identical to the 610DC, but it has better tilting options, plus a control dial on the back of the fan (a design we don’t like as much).

If you don’t have a lot of counter space, but you need a breeze with some height, or you need steady oscillation that arcs up and down as well as side to side, consider the Dreo PolyFan 513S . Also consider this fan if you’re torn between our other picks that offer DC-powered energy efficiency and smart-home capabilities. This pedestal-mounted fan stands nearly 44 inches tall, with an easy-to-clean, 11-inch diameter fan topped with haptic controls. It comes with a remote control, too. But you can also control it with your phone through the Dreo app, or connect the app to Alexa and use voice commands instead. The Dreo PolyFan packs in a lot of features, but they all work surprisingly well.

In our tests, the Dreo PolyFan was just as powerful as our top pick from Vornado. Air from the fan moved at speeds of up to 12.1 mph, and there are eight different speed settings to choose from (plus a turbo option). Even on its most basic settings, this fan could still produce a room-wide breeze with pleasant circulation.

But the Dreo PolyFan also has the ability to oscillate—both horizontally and vertically. You can select a side-to-side movement arc of 60, 90, or 120 degrees, as well as an up-and-down oscillation of 105 degrees. The combination creates a delightfully blustery wind that cascades through the room like a crashing wave of air. If that’s too overwhelming, you can just tilt the fan head at whatever vertical angle you prefer and run it like that.

Thanks to its DC-powered motor, the PolyFan is surprisingly energy-efficient. In our tests, the Dreo PolyFan could produce a tangible breeze with as little as 8 watts of energy—slightly more energy than from our other DC-powered pick, from Vornado , but still impressively less than that of most other fans. Even on its turbo power setting, the Dreo PolyFan still pulled only about 34 watts—about what our other, AC-powered picks use on their lowest settings.

That DC-powered motor also helps keep the PolyFan’s volume down. We measured the lowest sound output from the PolyFan at around 33 decibels—slightly louder than that of the Vornado 610DC, but still almost imperceptible. It never even approached the lowest output of our top pick until its fourth power setting. After that, however, things got exponentially louder, with the turbo setting rivaling the maximum volume of the Vornado 630 (though even that still measures below normal conversation levels).

It’s also one of the easiest fans to clean. The Dreo PolyFan has a single screw on the bottom holding the head together—simply remove that, and the grille twists right off so you can get inside and clean. You can even pull the fan blades off with ease. And the reassembly process is just as simple.

Use a remote, phone, or smart speaker to control it. We don’t put much stock in remote controls on fans, since we tend to lose them anyway. But it’s still a nice option. The PolyFan is also fairly easy to set up through the Dreo smartphone app; this app in turn can be synced with Alexa or Google Home, so you can control the fan remotely using voice commands. This worked about as well as we could have hoped; the language wasn’t impressively natural or anything, but it was still convenient enough.

But the PolyFan’s onboard controls were lacking. Across the top of the fan, there are five haptic controls that control the oscillation, speed settings, and power. Unfortunately, that means you have to press down hard on the tilting fan head, which is a little annoying. There are also indicator lights on the top that show the power settings, but they’re hard to see. On the fan’s pedestal, there’s an LCD display screen that shows the fan’s current settings; it’s easy enough to read, but we kept mistakenly thinking (wishing?) that it was a touchscreen.

Dreo’s smart-home privacy policies are … fine. The company is largely transparent about the information it’s tracking, and it seems to be doing its due diligence overall. However, Dreo still reserves the right to give or sell your data to third-party vendors and clients, which can unfortunately include marketers. To be fair, this is pretty much in line with the policies of many smart-home products, for better or for worse. And at least Dreo’s app seems less spammy than those of many other, more established companies.

The Dreo PolyFan comes with only a one-year warranty. Again, this is fairly normal for fans, but it pales in comparison with Vornado’s five-year protection plans. When you register your product on its site, Dreo also offers a warranty extension, which adds an extra 18 months to the warranty, for a total of 2½ years; this is an improvement, but it’s still a fraction of what the competition offers.

Budget picks can often feel like a compromise, but the Dreo Fox One is a genuinely good fan at an impressively affordable price.

It’s strong, but not a strong circulator. The 9-inch-diameter Dreo Fox One produces a slightly stronger gust of wind than our top pick , but it doesn’t fill the room quite as well. We’re splitting hairs here somewhat, but it’s technically true—we measured the Dreo Fox One at 12.3 mph, while the wind from the Vornado 630 was 11.8 mph. But the Dreo Fox One is also slightly smaller than the Vornado 630, so it doesn’t circulate the air quite as robustly as the 630.

It also uses slightly less energy than our top pick (about 10 fewer watts on low or 5 watts on high). Again, this won’t translate to significant energy savings, and, again, this fan offers a slightly weaker performance. But as far as a budget pick goes, it’s a fair trade-off.

It has a simple design, so it’s easy to clean. There’s a circular knob on the front of the base that lets you control the speed settings, and that’s it. When it comes to cleaning the Dreo Fox One, there’s a single screw at the bottom of the fan; all you have to do is pull that out and twist off the grille; then you can get inside and eliminate all that dust.

It’s a real deal. The Dreo Fox One is a steal. This fan performs nearly as well as our top pick, but it’s normally about half the price. Sold!

But like other Dreo fans we tested, the Fox One comes with only a one-year warranty. There’s also an 18-month extension if you register the product first. This is fairly standard for most fans, but it pales in comparison to the Vornado warranties. We’ll continue testing this and other Dreo fans to see how long they actually last beyond that first year.

Tower fans, like pedestal options, elevate their breeze without needing to perch on top of something else. They also don’t take up a lot of floorspace. Unfortunately, they have lots of other frustrating qualities. They’re rarely as powerful as most standard room fans, not to mention the air circulators that we tend to recommend. The cleaning process for tower fans also tends to be uniquely frustrating. At best, in order to reach around a corner and get at the gunk between the blades, you need to disassemble the base and then unscrew a series of awkwardly shaped panels. At worst, you just sort of hold a vacuum up to the fan grille and hope for the best. Over years and years of testing, we’ve come to realize that people (including us) are much less likely to clean something if it’s difficult to do. And, honestly, tower-fan maintenance tends to be a pain, leaving you with a filthy fan that’s even less effective.

To be fair, we have tested some tower fans that were … fine. The Seville Classics UltraSlimline 40″ Oscillating Tower Fan was our top pick until 2018. The new Dreo Pilot Max S smart tower fan probably provides the best cleaning access we’ve seen so far. Every year, we try to test new tower fans in the hope of finding one that works well. And every year, tower fans simply remind us that air circulators do a better job overall; they also remind us that cleaning them is a special kind of torture no human should have to endure. We’ve had a lot of good experiences with Vornado products, but we were still disappointed with the Vornado Atom 1 Compact Oscillating Tower Circulator .

Again, we understand the appeal of these products. But they tend to fail more often than not. And there’s already more than enough busted plastic filling up landfills globally, so we can’t in good conscience keep contributing to the pile. You deserve a fan that lasts. If you really need to save the counter space, we recommend checking out the pedestal-mounted Dreo PolyFan 513S .

The Dreo Polyfan 704S is a new version of our current also-great pick , with an updated user interface and some improved hardware. We plan on testing it soon, along with the new Dreo MC710 , a new smart tower fan with a built-in air purifying filter.

Windmill Air recently announced its first foray into fans with the wifi-enabled Windmill Air Circulator & Fan . We’ve been recommending the company’s air conditioners since 2021, and are eager to see how this new cooling device compares.

The Shark FlexBreeze FA222 can be used as both a pedestal fan or a smaller tabletop fan, and comes with a rechargeable battery so you can take it with you on the go. It also comes with an optional “InstaCool” water misting attachment, if you need some extra cooling power outside. We’re excited to see how it compares to both our current picks, and to other cordless fans like the GeekAire.

Vornado announced several new fans this year that also piqued interest. The Vornado Strata is a tabletop fan that does the job of a tower fan, with a vertical oscillation setting that can create taller breezes. Similarly, the Vornado Airbar 4 is a tower-style fan that can be positioned vertically or horizontally, depending if you need a wider breeze, or a taller one. The Vornado EXO61 and Vornado RTR are both heavy duty shop-style fans with high water resistance ratings, which could be helpful for some people.

We previously recommended the Vornado VFan Alchemy , another retro, metal-style air circulator that’s similar to the Silver Swan Alchemy . The VFan is slightly more affordable than the Silver Swan, but it doesn’t oscillate, and it’s not quite as easy to clean.

Vornado also released a larger, pedestal-mounted version of the VFan, called the Vornado VFan Sr. Pedestal Vintage Air Circulator . Again, this fan doesn’t oscillate, and we personally found its size and heavy-duty construction to be overbearing.

In 2023, we tested the Vornado 279TR Whole Room Circulator —a Costco exclusive—and it impressed us with its stunning mediocrity. It’s strong enough, but it’s also sort of loud and uses more energy than other, comparable fans. Vornado makes a lot of great products, but this is not one of them.

The Vornado Pivot6 Whole Room Air Circulator has a rotating axis that lets you direct the airflow, and it worked pretty well in our tests. It was slightly louder than our top pick , with a slightly scratchier tone. However, the seemingly fancy haptic controls were more frustrating than futuristic: We kept accidentally hitting the button while trying to pivot the fan, and it provided no way to tell which setting it was on.

The obelisk-esque Vornado Atom 1 Compact Oscillating Tower Circulator is a DC-powered fan with a touchscreen control that’s more frustrating than useful. To make the fan oscillate, you use your finger to draw a semicircular arc to tell the fan to blow the air only in that one specific spot (which is difficult to do). The Atom 1 is impressively quiet, except on high.

The Honeywell TurboForce Air Circulator Fan HT-900 used to be our budget pick, and it felt “budget” in every way. This was fine when the fan was only around $20, but not with an average price of over $50. You’re better off with the Dreo Fox One , which is more affordable and actually does its job well.

The Dreo Pilot Max S smart tower fan was surprisingly good, as far as tower fans go. It has the same smart-home capabilities as our pedestal-mounted Dreo pick, the PolyFan Max S, and it was actually fairly easy to get inside and clean around the column-shaped fan blade.

For smart fans, we’ve also looked at the Lasko Works With Alexa Tower Fan and Bluetooth-enabled Wind Curve Tower Fan , as well as the Govee Smart Air Circulator Fan . The Lasko Works With Alexa Tower Fan was easy enough to set up (like our Works With Alexa pick from Vornado, the 660 AE ), but it still had the shortfalls of a tower fan; the Bluetooth model didn’t give us enough smart-home capabilities beyond using our phone as a remote, and, again, it was still a tower fan. The Govee’s setup process was a little more annoying, and the privacy policy didn’t give us any more confidence in the scammy-looking app we had to download. Other than that, it was fine but unremarkable.

The Westinghouse WSFBLA022BK Bladeless Tower Fan looks sort of like a cheaper version of a Dyson, and it also comes with a built-in air purifier and UV filter. Our take: Get one of our air purifier picks, and pair it with any of our other fan picks.

We also looked at several other DC-powered fan alternatives.

The Lasko EcoQuiet T42700 is a DC-powered tower fan with 12 notched power levels, instead of a variable control dial, like on our current DC-powered Vornado pick . Although that certainly offers more-nuanced control than the standard low-medium-high options on other fans, it’s still not as customizable as on the Vornado fan, and it costs about the same.

We had a similar experience with the Lasko EcoQuiet DC-Powered Pedestal Fan with Remote Control , although at least that one made a robust breeze in the room.

The DC-powered Sharper Image Spin 12 is slightly more affordable than either Lasko model. But it’s also weak, flimsy, and frustrating to clean, so you get what you pay for.

This article was edited by Harry Sawyers.

Stephanie Sisco, The Best Fans , Real Simple

Sal Cangeloso, Best desk fan: Dyson vs Vornado vs Honeywell , Geek.com , April 1, 2014

Top Ten Tower Fans of 2016 , Top Ten Reviews

Ry Crist, Dyson AM06 review: Dyson’s desk fan is very cool but very costly , CNET , March 5, 2014

Samuel Gibbs, Dyson Cool AM06 Review: Is this the world’s most luxurious desk fan? , The Guardian , July 18, 2014

Will Greenwald, Dyson Cool AM06 Review , PCMag , March 7, 2014

Rob Green, senior design engineer at Dyson , email interview , March 27, 2017

Bill Kahale, product manager at Seville , phone interview , March 30, 2017

Jim Kline, engineer/quality supervisor at Intertek , phone interview , May 9, 2017

Brian Cyr, acoustical engineer at Intertek , phone interview , May 9, 2017

Meet your guide

Thom Dunn is a staff writer at Wirecutter reporting on heating, cooling, and other home-improvement topics. Sometimes his curiosity gets the best of him, such as when he plugged a space heater and a Marshall guitar amp into the same power strip. Pro tip: Don’t do that.

Further reading

7 Times a Portable Air Conditioner Actually Makes Sense Over a Window AC

by Thom Dunn

You should usually get a window AC unit, but portables are improving; sometimes they’re better in spite of higher cost and weaker performance.

How to Keep Your Home Cool

by Tim Heffernan

Here are all our product recommendations for keeping cool—and our advice on how to make everything work better.

The Best Window Air Conditioner Bracket

There’s a better way to rig an AC in a window.

How I Made My Ragtag Band of Window ACs Smarter Than Central Air

by Jon Chase

Teach your window ACs to smarten up and act more like a whole-home air conditioning system.

5 Best Portable Fans for Traveling [2024]: Stay cool on the road!

Loud hostels disrupting your sleep? Long lines in the heat melting your glow? Read on for the best portable and handheld fans to keep you cool on your travels.

For many people, traveling with a fan is a must. If you are used to sleeping with white noise, the hum of a fan can do the trick to help you get better sleep. It can also be the key to helping drown out that one person who always ends up snoring in your hostel. For others,  combating the summer heat of  Europe  or the humidity of  Asia , a mini or handheld fan can be a lifesaver. But if you like to travel light, it can be hard to find just the right portable fan that will tuck away in your luggage or carryon. 

In this review, we'll take a look at several different styles of mini fans, handheld fans, and portable fans that travelers love and best of all, take up little space in your luggage.

What to Look for in a portable travel fan

There are many different styles of travel fans depending on the need you are trying to meet. Some want a fan that can fold up and fit in a purse, while others want one that can clip onto a bed or stand on a desk. Check out the different features to think about below.

Size: Hand Held, Mini, or Table Fan?

Deciding when you want to use it is the first step in figuring out the best fan for you. There are some that you hold in your hand to cool you off while waiting in that hot never, ending line to get into that popular museum. Others are better for those muggy nights clipped onto your hostel bunk to drown out the partiers and to blow a light breeze on your face. Do you want to carry it everywhere in your purse or have it in your  backpack ? These are some things to consider in your search.

Power Source

One of the tricky parts of traveling is navigating different outlet types. 

• USB is a pretty reliable source that you find in a lot of newer hotels, computers, and  travel adaptors , and many portable fans use USB  as a way to charge them. 
• Standard plug-in fans are always an option. Plug them into the wall, and they go forever or use your adaptor to plug it in and breeze away.
• Chargeable! This is nice when you are on the go and are nowhere near a plug. Charge it and use it until you can get back to a power source. Best for handheld fans used when you are running around and trying not to melt.

Best Portable Fans for Travel

Now that you've decided if you need to add a travel fan to your list of  must-have travel gadgets , check out this guide on top reviewed portable and handheld fans that people are using this year.

JSUIS Mini 3 in 1 Handheld Fan

This fan packs a lot of features into its super small size.  

• Pocket Size Fan - Keep in your bag to use when you are out and about
• Backup Charger - Phone battery getting low? Use the backup battery charger to give you a quick boost.
• Flashlight - Built-in flashlight for dark streets 
• Long Battery Life - Advertised for 21 hours of battery life in one charge in fan mode
• Convertible into 3 different Stages -Can be used as a Handheld fan or folded to prop on a desk.
• USB Rechargeable - It is USB rechargeable through any regular USB port

This fan is highly rated and affordable at under $20 USD. Some users have said that the phone battery charger did not work very well and that sometimes it is a bit hard to switch between the different foldable stages, but otherwise, reviewers loved the flashlight, powerful fan, and super compact size.

Our Rating: 4.5/5

• Small and Portable
• Long Battery life
• USB Chargeable
• Added Flashlight Function
• Three different folding positions
• Phone charger not consistent
• Sometimes hard to open into the different stages.
• Power button can be hard to push

Portable Rechargeable Neck Fan

Looking for something to keep you cool and keep your hands free? You might want to check out this rechargeable neck fan by Delmac.

This fan is unique in that you just place it around your neck and a quiet, cool breeze for your neck and face will keep you refreshed. It's bladeless, so your hair won't get caught in the fan, and the charge lasts at least 6 hours. With three cooling speeds and a flexible design, this portable fan is great for those who want to stay cool on the go but want to also stay hands-free.   Some people have commented that the circulation isn't strong at the back, and long hair and earrings can get in the way of the airflow. It's got a pretty specific use, but if long lines in the heat impact your comfort, this might be a fan to consider.

Our Rating: 3.5/5

• Unique Design
• Strong Speed, Quiet
• Conversation Starter!
• More Expensive at over $30 USD
• May get in the way of Long Hair and Earrings
• Doesn't circulate air all the way around
• Not as many uses as some portable fans

GUSGU Flexible and Portable Fan

This interesting fan by GUSGU is really versatile to be used for many different things. The stand is bendable and can be used in a few different ways. You can prop it on a desk, hold it in your hand when on the go, or wrap the flexible arms around a surface like a metal bed frame, a stroller, or a lamp for really flexible use. Some users have found that the flexible arms don't stay tight and the fan will move out of place, and others would like the fan strength to be a bit stronger. But if you want an option for a fan that will work almost anywhere, this is a great fan to look into.

Our Rating: 4/5

• Versatile to wrap around, handheld or stand on its own
• USB with long charge
• Many colors
• Strong speed
• Blades can pinch small fingers
• Can move around after being attached
• Not super strong

Mini Handheld USB Chargeable Fan by Aluan

This fan knows exactly who it is. If you want a small handheld fan smaller than your phone, with a powerful speed that you can tuck away in your pocket, this may be the fan for you. It comes in 5 fun colors and is rechargeable with a USB cord. Some users have found that the blades are a bit fragile if dropped, and a few had issues with the fan holding a charge after a while, so these are things to consider. However, for a small, inexpensive fan that you can take on the go when you have minimal space, this mini fan is a great choice.

Our Rating: 4.3/5

• Inexpensive, under $15 USD
• Battery Powered, rechargeable
• Very small, fits in pocket
• Can't stand on its own
• Battery can die fairly quickly
• Blades can be fragile and break easily

Clip on Portable Fan for Travel

If a portable fan for use in one location such as sleeping or at a desk, is what you are looking for, here is a great option to consider. This fan has a clip-on feature that does need to be plugged into a USB port, so it is not chargeable and is something to consider if you want to use it away from a power supply. At 6 inches, it's bigger than a handheld fan but still very packable for a carryon. People like the clip-on feature and the dual speeds, but some have indicated that it's a bit louder and that they wish the cord was a bit longer. 

Our Rating: 3.2 /5

• Many different colors
• Clip on good for Hostels
• Strong speed with swivel for more flexibility
• Not as portable
• Not as quiet as some portable fans
• Cord is short

Should You Take a Portable Fan When You Travel?

Overall, it depends on where you are traveling and what your needs are. If you run hot and hate to be sticky or sweaty, then it might be a good idea to grab one of these handheld mini fans just in case. If you are a digital nomad or hostel sleeper and you want a fan to keep cool or dull noise, some of the options above are great to consider. 

Travel with Pilot

Now that you are set to keep cool on your trip, it's time to make sure you have your travel itinerary organized with Pilot.

Disclosure : Pilot is supported by our community. We may earn a small commission fee with affiliate links on our website. All reviews and recommendations are independent and do not reflect the official view of Pilot.

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Travel Tips and Reviews

Best Portable Fan For Camping or Travel

Do you like to travel a lot during a hot summer? Are you looking for a way to get a cool breeze on a hot day while listening to the soothing hum of a fan? We have the perfect news for you here since we understand the hassle you may undergo to stay cool in hot weather.

People who travel a lot need to have a fan to ensure they have fresh air and a cool breeze along the way. We want to offer you a way to keep cool on the go, while traveling, camping or in a hotel.

Maybe you wonder about these fans' size and how you can travel with them anytime you decide to go out in the heat. They are the right sizes to fit in your suitcase to ensure you can carry them very comfortably. There are several types and they come with unique designs  that you will relish to move and use around.

Honeywell Personal Fan

This one is easy carry around, hang on a hook or to have standing for maximum use. It has a fantastic aerodynamic turbo design that improves air movement and has a perfect range for a three-foot circulation. The fan has no batteries and can be charged via USB. 

The dimensions are 5" x 2.2" x 6," and it is lightweight, weighing around 0.6 ounces. It fits perfectly in  luggage such as suitcases and small travel bags to use for a weekend visit. It is the most efficient fan to consider for your hot outdoor activities.

It is also useful for white noise when you are used to the city buzz. The blades are up to seven inches long, and you can choose the three different speed modes.

• Lightweight 
• It can be used when hung, stood, or carried
• Not useful for people who are not looking for white noise in fans

Opolar Foldaway Fan

It is tiny and USB powered. It's really powerful for its small size. It is the size of most phones. Its minute features mean that it is highly portable and you can move with it anywhere. 

It has many excellent features that make it stand out as one of the best travel fans to look out for. It has a maximum speed of about 3,200 revolutions per minute. It operates for about 13 hours when it is fully charged. You can carry it anywhere you are moving to without it adding any weight to your backpack. It can also be used in dark areas with an infused LED light. 

• Very durable
• High-quality travel fan
• The minute size may not be imposing.

Koonie Rechargeable

Koonie should be your first choice when you are looking to spend a lot of time outdoors, and you may not have the opportunity to recharge again for some time. It is useful for use in remote areas where energy may not be guaranteed during a visit. 

The 10000mAh battery will last up to 40 hours when fully charged and functioning. You can also use it effectively on a stroller when taking your baby out on a hot day. Don't let the heat deny you a walk in the park with your baby.

This is set to operate at about four speeds so that you can customize it effectively. 

• Very versatile
• Long battery life
• Strong clamp for hanging
• May rattle loudly
• The volume of air pumped varies from time to time

Drchop Portable Camping Fan

Enjoy wireless usage with a fantastic battery life that will keep you enjoying cool air for the longest time. It stays up to 36 hours when fully charged, allowing you to have fresh air all day long. The battery is included with a fast charger to ensure you get it out quickly and use it in your outdoor activities.

You only need around 5 hours of charging time with the impressive Type-C USB and 2A fast charge. It also has level three brightness LED lamps that enable you to use them in dark places. The compact size also allows you to carry it for any outdoor occasion.

• Lightweight
• Hooks for easy hanging
• It may not be super powerful against extreme heat

Gazeled Portable

The built-in battery in this design effectively offers you a considerable amount of hours using it for the longest time. At low speed, it can work up to a whole week when fully charged. The flexible body also rotates up to 180 degrees, making it usable for a camp team.

It also has a brilliant timer that makes you comfortable when you rest in the hot afternoon or night. This is mighty for its small size.

• Powerful battery
• Bit expensive

Pravette Handheld

This is newly designed supercharged. It's the most influential, silent, powerful fan for travel. With a super battery that lasts up to 8 hours at the highest speed, you will enjoy using this all day long.

The dual rechargeable batteries are eco-friendly and very durable. It has a cool, versatile design to allow you to use it on different occasions with maximum benefits. The three-speed settings ensure you have the perfect airflow for a fantastic camping trip or walk on a hot day. 

• Fast charge
• Long lasting battery
• Quiet for people looking for white noise

Opolar Mini Portable

Enjoy a silent, powerful fan that will push tons and tons of air your way on a hot day. It's built for more airflow with less noise. The battery is also impressive since it allows you to use it for about 13 hours while you can adjust it to three reliable speeds. 

It has a compact design to carry it quickly to both outdoor and indoor activities. You may need to get some fresh air. The LED light will come in handy when you are in a shady area. 

• Backlight feature
• Very reliable
• Not good for white noise

Comlife Neck Fan

This has four blades making it distinctive from the standard three blades. The four blades guarantee a decent airflow that will keep coming for about 8 hours straight at high speed. It is also hands-free and 360 degrees adjustable to help you with a flexible design to enjoy the fan effectively.

The six-speed options are very unique, and you can relish using them for different activities. Enjoy a customized compact design for your outdoor activities. 

• Very durable 
• All black design is more subtle
• The battery may heat up

WiHoo Stroller

Enjoy this flexible tripod fan that comes with a unique silicone cover. It is very durable, and you can bend the stand to any angle for maximum effectiveness. It would be best to get this versatile, handheld, and portable fan to take you on every outdoor activity. 

It has an adorable design of a tripod stand. Using it outdoors will make you feel even better and unique. 

• Flexible tripod stand
• May not work when plugged in

Fancii Desk

Enjoy the small portable and lightweight fan that you can use perfectly in your home, office, out in the park, or when you go camping. The cooling air circulation is beneficial, and it has a rotational tilt of about 180 degrees.

It charges very fast to allow you to use it for a very long time. At low speed, you will enjoy the blast of air for a whole day. 

• Perfect for open office areas
• Light and compact design
• Sensitive power button
• power cable is fixed to the appliance

We know what you need, and here you will find the best travel fans. We have ensured we reviewed the ones that are the most powerful, lightweight. There are numerous other travel fans in the market, and we want to save you the long search by guiding you to choose the best one. 

These are reliable for their cooling effects and the soothing sound as they move against the wind. As we described here, white noise is a noise that can soothe you since they have the same intensities. As you lie on your camp bed relaxed and hearing to almost no noise since you are used to the sound of the city cars, air conditioners, and television sound. 

The best remedy to help you have a peaceful night in the new environment is by these fans. Look out for these fans that are various to allow you to customize the experience as much as possible. They are effortless to use and perfectly functional.

Are you ready to go camping on a hot day? Don't worry about spending your night in a hot tent since you can choose any of the above travel fans and use them effectively for your trip. These are durable and effective in providing you with enough fresh air to last the whole trip. Don't hesitate; get one today. 

Best White Noise Fans of 2023: Loud Enough to Drown Out Noise

When it comes to fans, most people fall into one of two camps. Some like working or falling asleep to the soothing sound of spinning blades while others prefer their household appliances to be effective but silent.

If you need that whooshing noise to cover up other distracting sounds, you’ll want to look for the best white noise fans on the market.

Luckily, I’m here to help. The products on my list have blades that are designed to produce a loud sound as they spin. However, they’re paired with quiet motors that shouldn’t add any other annoying sounds into the mix. So with that being said, let’s just get into it.

WHITE NOISE FANS: TOP PICKS

» QUICK NAVIGATION «

Where to Place Your White Noise Fan

Before you load that Amazon page, you’ll need to figure out where you want to put the fan. Depending on which room you intend to use your fan in, you’ll need a different product. And, of course, you’ll want to pay attention to the features of the fan. These could also determine if you can place it on the floor or a desk.

So, ask yourself which problem you’re looking to solve by purchasing a white noise fan .

If you’re trying to get a better night’s sleep , for example, you’ll need to consider what your room looks like . Do you have space for a standing fan, or do you need to settle for a smaller one you could put on the nightstand? Are you trying to help your baby have a more restful sleep ? A smaller fan would probably do well there, too.

There are options for people trying to cool down a whole room, or for those who want to be able to personally direct the airflow by hand. The point is that potential buyers need to shop for their own needs , not just pick out whatever’s the cheapest or most expensive. I’ll have some suggestions for each of these categories later down the line. For now, we can just move on to the features you’ll need to look out for when choosing the best white noise fan for your needs.

Different Types of Fans, Loudness, and Other Features

There are some basic features you should be aware of when shopping for fans. Here, I’ll explain the different types of fans, as well as the various qualities you might want to pay special attention to, including loudness, portability, and airflow.

Lastly, I’ll try to cover the quality of materials and the price of fans. However, there are a few more aspects I might not get to. Like, some of you might already be loyal to a certain manufacturer, or you might be looking for certain features . For example, you could want your fan to have a sleep timer.

Honestly, it’s always best to write down everything you’re looking for before setting out to find the right white noise fan for yourself. So, let’s see what considerations you might want to have.

Types of Fans

As I mentioned, you’re bound to notice a few basic types of fans when shopping for one. So, let’s see what the three most popular types are.

First, there are ordinary fans . These are your standard, noisy, standing fans . They have a fairly large and stable base . The head of the fan might turn from side to side, directing airflow, and the round blades of the fan are protected by a grill .

Another type of fan you would see is the tower fan . These are also standing fans, although they’re slimmer than ordinary fans, so they take up less space . They also don’t have a rotating head because their blades are hidden inside the tower body. These fans are a great option for small apartments or bedrooms .

Box fans are typically small and easy to use , though some of them can be industrial-size. They can be square, rectangular or circular , and they don’t typically have moving parts.

However, you can move them by hand, since they’re often small enough to be handled. Also, they can go on the floor , like ordinary and tower fans. Or, they can be so small that you could put them on your desk while you work. And, they could even work by a window and direct the room’s airflow.

Actually, box fans are usually the crowd favorites for people who like having white noise around, as they tend to be noisier. For people who want to sleep with a white noise fan, it wouldn’t need to be incredibly loud .

However, if you’re looking for something to cover daily noise, you’d need a louder fan .

The loudness of a fan is usually due to its speed features, so make sure to check them before purchasing a fan.

Portability

The portability of a fan would naturally be determined by its size and weight . There are some fans you could easily handle – like smaller and lighter box or tower fans. Some ordinary fans can be moved between rooms, but you’ll probably want to keep them in one place.

You could even take smaller fans, and those that come with their own power supply, to the office. Or, you could even bring them with you when you travel. One of the smaller fans I’ll talk about later even has a clip, which makes it especially travel-friendly.

Obviously, the primary purpose of a fan is to provide airflow . In order to make sure that the fans you’re looking at will be good at directing airflow, you should compare how powerful they are and make a choice from there.

Depending on your needs, you might especially want a fan with an oscillating head or some other way of mixing up the air in a room. Or, you might specifically want a stationary fan to blow directly in your face. Whatever your preference, it would be a good idea to write it down before you go looking for fans.

Quality of Materials

The quality of materials in a fan is super important if you want it to last a long time . And, I’d say it’s especially important in smaller fans – so, the ones you want to carry around with you.

Personally, I think you could make even a middle-tier quality fan last if you take care of it . That shouldn’t take much; just don’t trample the cables and avoid rough handling. You should also cover it with a bag before you set it away for the winter, if you’re not using it.

Still, if you want something you can be sure will last, I’d suggest making sure a fan isn’t made of cheap plastic before you buy it.

Of course, most of the time, durability might come at some expense – literally. I’d say having a higher-quality gadget is worth a steeper price point , but that’s for everyone to decide for themselves.

Fortunately, the fans I’ve chosen to talk about are all within the 20-100 dollar range, with most of them sitting comfortably at the lower end of that spectrum. Naturally, the smaller fans are typically less expensive, though even similar fans’ prices might vary between different manufacturers. So, as always, decide how much you’re comfortable spending and go from there.

12 of the Best White Noise Fans (2023)

Now, I can finally present my list of the best white noise fans on the market. These are all white noise enthusiast-approved, so they all produce a great whirring noise to help you sleep and concentrate. The specifics will be left up to everyone’s preference.

So, without further ado, let’s see our contestants!

1. Holmes 12-Inch Blizzard Rotating Fan With Remote Control

This 12-inch wide box fan from Holmes is capable of producing incredibly powerful air currents, especially for how compact it is. According to the manufacturer, the airflow efficiency is mostly attainable because the grille in front of the fan blades rotates along with the blades .

The grille and blade section is attached to the surrounding body of the device on a vertical axis. That allows the fan to oscillate and have wider area coverage despite having a stationary body. Overall, this unit should be able to cool up to 500 square feet .

Above the blade section, you’ll see a large handle that makes the device easy to carry from room to room. Unlike the previous model in the same line, this one has cord storage in the back . That should make moving and storing the device even easier. Another thing you’ll find in the back is a slot for the remote control that comes with the fan.

The remote has five buttons on it, with the 2-breeze key in the middle and four other settings around it. The lower left button is the power button , the upper left turns on the oscillation feature, the upper right enables the timer , and the lower right is for speed adjustments. Of course, you could access all those features on the fan itself via the buttons above the grille.

There are LED lights next to most of those settings. For example, there are three indicators next to the speed button and four next to the timer . The timer function is capable of delaying shutdown by 1, 2, 4, or 8 hours .

• 12-inch box fan with a convenient handle
• Rotating grille and oscillation increases airflow range
• Delay shutdown by up to 8 hours
• Remote control
• Suitable for large rooms

2. Vornado 683 Medium Pedestal Whole Room Fan

Vornado’s 683 is an ordinary standing fan made to improve the airflow of a whole room. It’s among the priciest products on this list, coming in at around $80 on Amazon. In my opinion, the price is completely justified, as it comes from a tried-and-true fan manufacturer. Vornado has perfected their own energy-efficient “vortex” technology , which promotes air circulation.

The height of this fan is adjustable, between 32 and 38 inches , which means it shouldn’t overwhelm smaller rooms. Its head is stationary but adjustable by hand, as well. Wherever you fix it, though, the deep-pitched blades and grill are supposed to be able to push the air to all corners of the room.

The fan is fairly easy to assemble and disassemble , which should make it easy to store. However, I would say it’s one of those “set it and forget it” products – I wouldn’t move it around too much once you have it set. Like most fans, it also has three speed settings. In fact, the 683 is a fairly standard product all around.

However, Vornado is also pretty famous among people who like to have white noise around. The brand’s fans are great at providing non-distracting background noise , and one user commented that the fans themselves are actually noiseless, allowing you to hear the air circulation, instead of the blades.

• A standing fan, 32-38 inches tall
• Vornado’s vortex air circulation technology
• From a brand that’s popular with white noise lovers
• The blades themselves are quiet, allowing you to hear the air circulation

3. Lasko 2265QM 20-Inch Floor Fan

Lasko is another well-known brand among people looking for white noise machine alternatives! This particular fan is a 20-inch wide circular box fan that you can use as a floor fan . Or, you could even mount the fan on your wall using a stand. And, you’ll easily be able to switch between using it on the floor and on the wall because you won’t screw in the fan itself.

Like the previous fan I mentioned, this Lasko fan is one of the pricier ones on the list, as it costs upwards of $60 on Amazon. Also like the previous fan, this one’s more expensive – for a good reason.

Though it doesn’t have any fancy airflow technology, the metal frame of this fan is very durable , which means it should be able to take a bit of rough handling. It’s big, stable and sturdy, but still easy to move around. And, as I said, this brand is famous among white noise lovers. That’s because it’s a particularly powerful machine – and where there’s power, there’s noise.

So, this fan is great for white noise. The low setting will produce a quiet whirring sound that would be great for sleep, while the medium and high settings will be great at disguising louder sounds . Lastly, like all Lasko products, it has their Blue Plug technology, which protects against electrical hazards.

• A 20-inch circular box fan
• Easy switching between floor and wall setups
• Durable frame
• Great white noise for sleep or work in loud environments

4. Lasko 2554 Wind Curve Tower Fan

Unlike the last Lasko fan, this one was also made to conserve space, as well as melt into it, with its sleek curved design and wood accents . This tower fan is only about 13 inches in diameter and 42.5 inches tall . It weighs only about 13 pounds, too, which should make it easy to carry between rooms using the built-in handle. And, it’s in a similar price range as the past two products, as it costs upwards of $80 on Amazon.

This fan has three speeds, which is standard, but it also has oscillation settings , all of which can be controlled with a small remote control. And, it even has an ionizer included , which can improve air quality by trapping air pollutants. The 2554 tower fan also turns off automatically after 7.5 hours of use, and it even has other timer options .

A tower fan may not be the best option to direct airflow in a bigger room, but it’ll work just fine in smaller spaces. The oscillation settings will help there, too. And, since you’re trying to find a white noise fan, I should mention that the powerful oscillation will also produce the whirring noise you need to work or sleep.

This is pretty much the ideal fan to have if you’re concerned with saving space or having it fit into your other decor . And, it should be even better at making white noise, and generally improving air quality.

• Slim and tall, at 13 inches wide and 42.5 inches tall
• Easy to move using the build-in handle
• Remote control settings, including a timer and an ionizer
• White noise levels may not be enough to cover loud noises
• Will work fine for sleep and work overall

5. Vornado Flippi V6 Personal Fan

The next three recommendations take us back to the personal fan categories, starting with the 6-inch, 1-pound Vornado Flippi V6 . Unlike the first personal fan I mentioned, though, this one doesn’t have USB or battery power. Also, these last few options take us back down to the $20-$30 range on Amazon.

The Vornado Flippi is so called because the head of the fan can be manually adjusted 360 degrees around the stand. When the fan is pointed down toward the stand, you can basically pop the fan in your bag and get going. Because of its size and unobtrusiveness, you could even bring this fan to work or maybe school. There are a lot of color options to choose from if you like your gadgets tiny and whimsical.

Like the previous Vornado product I presented, the Flippi V6 uses their signature vortex technology to promote air circulation . Like other small fans, though, it doesn’t offer a huge variety of settings, leaving you with just two speed options. Still, I’d say these are perfectly acceptable for white noise production, especially if you’re trying to sleep, or work in a work environment that’s already decently quiet.

6. Slumberbreeze™ 2-In-1 Personal Fan

This compact battery-powered fan is perfect for offices and bedrooms, as it can fit on all tables and keep the room cool year-round. With its help, your environment will be noise-free and comfortable .

The fan features 5 white noise frequencies . Thus, you can flip through them and choose the one that suits you most based on your current needs. Some are more fitting for promoting focus , while others can help you fall asleep easier. The SumberBreeze also has a USB port that you can use to charge your phone or some other device as you work or relax.

Lastly, you also get to choose between different fan speeds and oscillation modes . You can do so by pressing one of the two front buttons until you find a speed that you like.

Aside from being quite handy and easy to store, this fan is rather aesthetically pleasing as well. Namely, it has a fabric-textured finish, making it an excellent addition to any room. The fan comes in either black or white, while the fabric is gray.

• 5 white noise frequencies
• 2 oscillation modes and fan speeds
• Perfect for desks in bedrooms and offices
• Aesthetic appearance

7. Honeywell GF-55 Chillout 2-Speed Personal Fan

If you’re more into table fans that don’t run on batteries but need to be plugged in , this Honeywell model will be a perfect choice for you. It is designed to fit on tabletops, nightstands, and kitchen countertops. As such, it makes for an excellent companion throughout your entire home, especially because it takes up so little space .

The fan comes with 2 different speeds, and you can switch through them using the oscillator in the middle. While this model doesn’t have as many speeds and oscillation modes as some of the others on this list, it is still a great choice if you just need to cool your room as you work, cook, or relax.

The Honeywell fan is white and silver , meaning that it can fit into just about any interior design. Furthermore, it is incredibly lightweight , so carrying it from room to room will be quite easy.

According to Amazon reviewers, this fan is extra durable . It can last for years even with frequent use, and the speeds and oscillation remain the same all throughout. Thus, if you are looking for an affordable fan that will last you for at least 3 years, don’t hesitate to get this one.

However, you should bear in mind that the fan does not tilt in any direction. Furthermore, it is impossible to remove the fan head from the base . Therefore, if you need such features from your white noise cooler, you should consider one of my other recommendations.

• Lightweight and durable
• Not powered by batteries
• An attractive white/silver design
• Designed for table tops, nightstands, and counters

8. O2COOL Portable Clip Fan

Next personal fan I can recommend is this compact O2COOL battery-powered clip fan. It’s just under 12 inches long with the 5-inch clip , though the actual head of the fan is 5 inches wide with a 1-inch circular frame. The head is fully adjustable , so you can rotate it about 330 degrees or tilt it 130 degrees.

So, wherever you clip the fan, you’ll be able to manually direct airflow towards yourself. The clip is also very strong and won’t budge easily if you end up using the fan in a workshop, or other areas with more foot traffic.

The O2COOL portable fan is exclusively powered by AA batteries , and it has two speed settings. You shouldn’t be able to hear the blades operating, but this fan should serve you well as far as white noise and airflow go.

O2COOL recommends using this fan on your desk or in dorm rooms, in offices, or on camping trips . Finally, this portable clip fan is available for about $25 on Amazon.

• Very small and portable, 12 inches long
• A strong clip that won’t budge
• Adjustable head
• Two speed settings
• White noise level appropriate for low noise environments, sleep or work

9. Honeywell Turboforce Black Tower Fan

If you’re looking to conserve floor space while still getting some serious airflow, the Honeywell TurboForce tower fan is the perfect product for you. The 32-inch tall device has a 10-inch circular base , so it shouldn’t take up much room at all. I’ve briefly mentioned as much in my review of another Honeywell tower fan . With that being said, let’s talk about the specific features this device brings to the table — or rather, the floor since that is the more likely placement in this case.

The most notable thing about this tower fan is its design. Overall, the device has a sturdy-looking build without a discernible disconnect between the base and the tower. There’s also a concealed handle in the back , making the device easy to carry from room to room.

Unlike most tower fans, this one has two independent sets of blades — one in the body of the device and one on top. The fan at the top of the tower has a 90-degree range of motion , though you’ll have to adjust it manually.

Meanwhile, the fan in the body of the device is fixed, though you can make the whole thing move side to side by pressing the oscillation button on the side . The dials that control both fans are above and below that button .

Naturally, the aerodynamic blades are concealed by grilles , which are designed to prevent unnecessary noise. So you’ll only hear the air exiting the fan! Notably, the main fan simultaneously admits and expels air through the front grille . So unlike most standard fans, you can keep this one against the wall.

• 32-inch oscillating tower fan
• 90-degree pivoting head
• 3 speed settings for each fan
• Can stand against the wall
• You’ll feel it up to 40 feet away

10. Hurricane 12-Inch Wall Mount Fan

Another way to conserve floor space would be to get a fan that won’t touch the floor at all . I’ve already mentioned some mountable box fans, but this one from Hurricane was made for that purpose.

At first glance, this 12-inch fan looks like the top part of an ordinary standing fan. As such, it has many of the features we all love about those kinds of fans. For one, the head of the fan is attached to the neck with screws that allow users to tilt the whole thing . On top of that, the oscillation feature gives the head a 90-degree pivot range .

The speed control dial is right under the head of the fan, as it usually is on these kinds of units. At the fastest setting, the polymer blades can manage 1450 rotations per minute , pushing 1412 cubic feet of air per minute.

Since this fan will be up on a wall, the manufacturer also included a pull cord control system . The left cord turns the oscillation on or off while the right one allows you to change the speed of the fan or turn it off.

• Oscillating 12-inch wall mount fan
• Adjustable head tilt
• 3 speed settings (up to 1450 RPM)
• Comes with everything you need to attach it to the wall
• Perfect for small to medium rooms (although you can get 16 or 18-inch versions for larger rooms)

11. IRIS USA WOOZOO Air Circulator Fan

This IRIS USA model is not an ordinary fan. Namely, instead of just blowing cool air in its immediate vicinity, the fan mixes the air that is already in the room . That way, it manages to cool the entire space and prevent temperature variations.

Furthermore, the uniquely designed spiral grid allows excellent airflow control and precise delivery. The deep pitch blades are able to produce more air with every spin, making the fan quite powerful in most average-sized rooms. Still, the grid and blades are designed to minimize noise , so you won’t have to worry about hearing the annoying spinning sound all day.

Based on your current needs, you can pick between 4 fan speeds . From a light breeze that can refresh you as you study to a powerful air stream that can reach every corner of your room, this fan can do it all. You can change the speeds by simply turning the button on the front of the fan.

What I love most about this fan is that its air circulation feature makes it a great companion during winter as well . If you need something that will soundlessly circulate the warm air in your room, this fan is truly a perfect choice.

The WOOZOO makes a nice addition to all desks, countertops, and nightstands. The white matte finish ensures the fan will fit pretty much any color combination you have in your home. Furthermore, you can take advantage of 6 tilting modes to ensure the air hits exactly where you want it every time.

• Air circulation feature
• 6 tilting modes
• 4 fan speeds
• Soundless but powerful blades
• A unique spiral grid design
• White matte finish
• Ideal for bedrooms, living rooms, kitchens, and bathrooms

12. Honeywell Dreamweaver Sleep Personal Fan With Pink Noise

Lastly, I wanted to mention the Honeywell Dreamweaver fan that produces pink noise . The advantage that pink noise fans have over traditional white noise ones is rather subtle but still powerful. Namely, the higher and lower frequencies change a bit quicker, making the noise even more soothing and balanced .

And the best thing is, you can use the sound blocking feature with or without the airflow, all based on your needs at a particular moment.

Since the fan is an oscillating model, you can direct the air anywhere you want, ensuring maximum efficiency. Moreover, thanks to the on/off airflow shutter , you can pick an oscillation, pivot, and speed mode that fits your preferences.

Amazingly, this fan can also double down as a unique night light . There are 4 light settings that you can opt for, ranging from dim to bright. However, you can also turn the light off completely if you are more comfortable sleeping that way.

The Dreamweaver comes in a sleek black design , making it a fitting and modern addition to any room, from kitchens to bathrooms. Moreover, the model is incredibly compact and light, so you’ll have no trouble moving it around your home. However, keep in mind that it is a corded fan and cannot run on batteries. Thus, you can only take it with you outside if you have an extension cable and a stable power source.

• Pink noise mode
• 4 light modes
• Complete control over the airflow
• Perfect for a restful night of sleep
• Modern design

About White Noise and Fans

What is white noise, anyway? I mentioned that it’s a blend of sound frequencies, but it’s actually not as simple as that. White noise, like white light, is an amalgamation of all sound frequencies . That means white noise is a mix of all frequencies between 20-20,000 Hz.

White noise plays all of the frequencies at the volume they come in , which makes it a bit sharper at the high-frequency end of the spectrum. By playing all of these sounds, white noise can cover up all other sounds that happen in that range.

If you’ve been researching white noise, you may have also heard of pink or brown noise . They work within the same spectrum as white noise, except that they’re both more balanced between the low and the high end of the spectrum. Choosing the right noise color is just a matter of personal preference.

The Benefits of Loud White Noise Fans

The benefits of owning a white noise fan include:

• Drowns out outside noises by producing a steady hum of frequencies
• Also drowns out your inner voice and stops you from overthinking
• Allows you to fall asleep and stay asleep – prevents you from hearing sounds that could startle you awake
• Especially good for newborns, who are used to hearing sounds that pass through to the womb
• Some research shows that it comforted elderly patients and enabled them to have a more restful sleep
• Relieves ear ringing or tinnitus, as well as symptoms of vertigo
• Improves productivity and concentration

There are many types of white noise machines , but fans have the obvious dual-purpose advantage . Aside from being able to keep you cool – which is also a big part of concentration and sleep – they are often very portable, as well. And, fans are even way cheaper than white noise machines , anyway.

White noise fans provide a steady hum of frequencies. They are the best solution for those who need some background noise to be productive and relaxed.

MARPAC WHITE NOISE MACHINES

Final thoughts.

Since white noise is so helpful, whether you’re trying to catch up on some Z’s or concentrate on your work, everyone would benefit greatly from having some kind of a white noise machine at their side. And, why not make it a product that can also help you stay sane in a hot or stuffy room?

While we’re on the subject of improving sleep and overall quality of life, I’ve got one last tip for you all. Fix your sleeping conditions sooner rather than later – if there’s something about them that needs to be fixed. A white noise fan or machine can only help so much if you’re sleeping on a mattress that’s sinking or squeaking .

Because, remember, in order for you to be able to concentrate on your work or studies at all, you’ll need to get plenty of sleep, anyway. So, while a white noise fan can actually help you in both of these areas, it’s best to make sure that your room is already quiet enough and that your bed is already comfortable enough.

RELATED POSTS:

• Can You Leave White Noise On All Night?
• Best Noise-Canceling Earmuffs For Sleeping
• Best Quiet Fans For Bedrooms
• Using White Noise To Block Out Snoring
• By Soundproof Living

1 thought on “Best White Noise Fans of 2023: Loud Enough to Drown Out Noise”

Thank you for this article. I have always like the Hawaiian Breeze standing fan. It has a wonderful white noise and it also has a soothing “hum”. I located the brand at Walmart but they are sold out. So sad.

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The 10 Best White Noise Machines For Soothing Sounds Before Bedtime

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When squeezing a pillow around your head isn’t enough to drown out noisy neighbors, barking dogs or traffic sounds, a good white noise machine may do the trick. The best white noise machines generate consistent, calming sounds to drown out distracting ambient noises keeping you from drifting off. “That can be very helpful for people to sleep,” says board-certified sleep specialist and neurologist W. Christopher Winter .

The best white noise machines help lull you to sleep with relaxing sounds.

White noise itself is similar to the low hiss of static, but today’s white noise machines have myriad options for soothing sleep sounds, among other benefits. Our favorite is the Hatch Restore , a smart model with a sleek design that lets you create personalized sleep routines. If you’re looking for options that will lull you to sleep with ocean, campfire and rain sounds, or a version that doubles as a nightlight or baby monitor, our recommendations for the best white notice machines have those, too.

• Best White Noise Machine Overall: Hatch Restore Sound Machine
• Best Budget White Noise Machine: Magicteam Sound Machine
• Best White Noise Fan: Marpac Dohm Classic White Noise Machine
• Best White Noise Machine With Fan Sounds: Tuft & Needle + Snooz White Noise Machine
• Best White Noise Machine For Babies: Hatch Rest Go
• Best White Noise Machine For Kids: Yogasleep Duet White Noise Machine
• Best White Noise Machine To Mask Background Noise: Sound+Sleep Sound Machine
• Best Portable White Noise Machine: Homedics Portable Sleep Therapy
• Best White Noise App: Mynoise White Noise & Nature Sounds
• Best White Noise Machine with Classic Sleep Sounds: Lectrofan EVO

Best White Noise Machine Overall

A smart sound machine that does everything, hatch restore sound machine.

Number of sounds: 20, more with membership | Noise type: Nature sounds and white noise | Nightlight: Yes

The Hatch Restore is an elegant-looking sound machine with an integrated clock display and the ability to wake you in the morning, but as far as features go, that barely scratches the surface. Its signature feature is its personalized sleep routine; using an app on your phone, you can curate your sleep ritual by customizing sounds, lighting and time frames.

For instance, you can start with some bedtime reading—yes, the Hatch Restore can provide reading light—then switch to meditation and finally drift off to some white noise. In the morning, Hatch can gently wake you with a sunrise alarm. You can even choose the color of the Restore’s nightlight.

The app comes with a small library of sound options including meditations, sleep stories and background sounds, but to get the most out of your Hatch Restore, you can pay for a premium subscription ($50 per year) to get access to a large library of content.

What the reviews say : There are over 8,000 reviews for the Hatch Restore, and the majority are five stars. “I'm a very light sleeper which means that external noises from my apartment complex regularly wake me up and disturb my sleep cycle. The white noise content has been really helpful in reducing external noise and keeping me asleep,” says one customer.

Best Budget White Noise Machine

20 non-looping sounds give you a lot of options, magicteam sound machine.

Number of sounds: 20 | Noise type: White, brown, pink and blue noise, fan and nature sounds | Nightlight: No

You don’t have to spend a lot to get a great white noise machine. Magicteam’s white noise generator has 20 different non-looping sounds to choose from—something unusual in a device at this price point—with choices including rain, ocean, birds, a brook and traditional white, brown, and pink noise .

It can plug into a standard wall outlet or get its power from USB, making it pretty versatile, and the understated white gadget has a row of simple controls up front to manage the sounds ands volume. It doesn’t have as many features as some of the more robust “smart” models in this list, but what it does, it does well, and at a price that’s hard to beat.

What the reviews say : Over three quarters of more than 1,300 reviews are five stars, and customers rave about its size, good looks and function. “The many sound options should satisfy anyone’s preferences,” says one customer.

Best White Noise Fan

Simple, reliable and traditional white noise, marpac dohm classic white noise machine.

Number of sounds: 2 | Noise type: Fan | Nightlight: No

The Marpac Dohm Classic White Noise Machine is notable for being incredibly simple to operate. Just turn it on choosing either high or low volume and spin the cap and side of the device to dial in the quality of white noise you’re looking for. Under the hood, you’ll find a true mechanical fan creating an analog soundscape, working the same way it has since it was invented in 1962.

Of course, this means the scope of sounds it can produce is pretty narrow. There are no rainfalls or birds chirping in the Marpac Dohm, nor is there any nightlight, timer or wake alarm. Nonetheless, many people find the non-looping white noise it generates and overall simplicity to be perfect for their needs.

What the reviews say : Close to 20,000 positive ratings put the Dohm Classic at 4.6 stars. One customer, who calls it a game changer, says, “it’s very effective to mask regular noise from neighbors in apartment buildings and similar set-ups.” Another writes, “This boosted my sleeping performance hugely and I can get a solid 7 to 8 hours of sleep.”

Best White Noise Machine With Fan Sounds

A sleek unit that lets you customize the whirr, tuft & needle + snooz white noise machine.

Number of sounds: 1 with adjustable tone | Noise type: Fan | Nightlight: No

It makes sense that a sound machine company and a mattress brand decided to team up to develop their own sound machine—and this is the impressive result of their collaboration. Like the original Snooz White Noise Machine, the Tuft & Needle + Snooz White Noise Machine boasts a sleek, simple design that means it’ll be inconspicuous among your bedroom decor.

While this sound machine uses real fan noise (without moving air) to help lull you to sleep, it’s 98% more energy efficient than a typical box fan—and of course, it’s a lot smaller, too. Designed for adults and babies (and even pets), it offers adjustable tone and volume and both dark and light modes. The T&N White Noise app offers additional features for extra convenience and comfort, including the ability to set timer schedules and select fade in/out.

What the reviews say : One happy customer writes, “I work nights and the rest of my family work/go to school during the day, so having this is perfect to keep my room quiet. And the Bluetooth integration is so useful, I love being able to schedule it so I don't have to manually turn it on and off. Plus, I don't need to get out of bed to turn the volume up or down. The price may seem high but it is very much worth it.”

Best White Noise Machine For Babies

A portable device that any parent can navigate, hatch rest go.

Number of sounds : 10 | Noise type : White noise, nature sounds, fan, heartbeat, lullaby | Nightlight : No

The Rest Go is a portable sound machine for babies and kids, but it’s really designed with parents in mind. The palm-sized device has an appealing minimalist aesthetic and comes in five stylish neutrals. It clips onto just about anything—a diaper bag, baby carrier, stroller—and the recycled plastic construction is both shatter and drool-proof. The Rest Go plays 10 different sounds, including traditional white noise and nature sounds like rain, ocean, water and wind. Three buttons turn the device on and off, change sound and adjust the volume up or down. There’s no need to download an app and you don’t need Wifi or Bluetooth, either. Instead, the Rest Go has a rechargeable battery that lasts all day. Bonus: it will also continue playing while it’s charging with the included, color-coordinated USB-C cable. We like the price point, too. At $35, it’s a great buy.

What the reviews say: Parents are fans of the Hatch Go. “Seriously a travel essential with my fussy baby and it comes in a variety of cute colors,” says one. Another writes, “I had this in my diaper bag when I unexpectedly had to take my baby to the hospital with RSV. This sound machine helped her sleep well even in the hospital!”

Best White Noise Machine For Kids

Compact with a large sound library, yogasleep duet white noise machine.

Number of sounds : 30 | Noise type : White noise, pink noise, brown noise, fan, nature sounds, lullaby | Nightlight : Yes

This compact white noise machine packs a lot of features into a pretty tidy size. It plays 30 different sound options, including 8 lullaby tracks for kids, and it connects to Bluetooth for streaming music directly from your smartphone. That’s a pretty handy feature for parents who want to manage their child’s bedtime playlist from afar. The Duet will run all night, but there are three timer options for 45 and 90 minutes and 8 hours. Kids and adults alike will appreciate the amber night light, which can be dimmed for the perfect amount of light. All of these features are controlled on top of the device via a simple and intuitive interface that even small kids can manage.One note: Each Duet comes with a USB cable, but a power adapter isn’t included.

What the reviews say: “This is exactly what we needed for my son's room. We can play stories via Bluetooth, the nightlight is perfect, and all of the sounds are great,” says one parent. Another says, “I purchased this for my daughter's room to get her to sleep alone and she loves it. The rain sounds soothe her and the light makes her comfortable. Great buy.”

Best White Noise Machine To Mask Background Noise

Volume that automatically adapts to cover background noise, sound+sleep sleep sound machine.

Number of sounds: 30 | Noise type: White noise, meditation and nature sounds | Nightlight: No

The control panel on the Sound+Sleep might feel a little cramped and crowded, but that’s because you get such a wide variety of sound options without the complexity of connecting your phone and using a mobile app. The dial gives you direct access to 30 sounds including rainfall, babbling brook, ocean surf, waterfall, crowd sounds and more, including white, pink and brown noise. Unlike some electronic sound machines, these are all non-looping for no distracting audio glitches.

This sound machine also has a feature you don’t see often: an adaptive mode that varies the volume of its background sounds in response to ambient noise. If a truck rumbles by outdoors, the Sound+Sleep will ramp up its volume in response and then return to normal when the distraction is gone. You also get a volume control (naturally) and a sleep timer you can set to 30, 60, 90 or 120 minutes.

What the reviews say : One reviewer, who was having trouble sleeping because of her husband’s snoring, says this sound machine “really has been a wonderful device to help with my noise problem.” A self-proclaimed expert on sound/sleep machines writes, “It has sounds that I enjoy listening to or sleeping by, it's not so complicated to operate that it frustrates me, it's fairly attractive, and has lots of easy-to-operate options to change things around occasionally.”

Best Portable White Noise Machine

Its small size and battery power make it travel-friendly, homedics portable sleep therapy.

Number of sounds: 6 | Noise type: White noise and nature sounds| Nightlight: No

If you’re looking for a small sound machine that you can take on the road, the Homedics Portable Sleep Therapy sound machine fits the bill. It’s among the smallest sleep machines around (it measures about 7 inches wide and 6 inches deep) and can be run on AC power or on four AA batteries. And we’d be remiss not to point out that it’s among the cheapest sound machines you can buy, priced at or under $25.

You get a choice of a half-dozen sounds (white noise, thunder, ocean, rain, summer night and brook) and the sounds are rhythmic, designed to install feeling of comfort that lulls you to sleep. You can trigger the sounds with a 15, 30 or 60-minute sleep timer.

What the reviews say : The Homedics SoundSleep has a whooping 61,000 reviews, and the majority are five stars. One customer says it works like a charm and that they “love the ocean sounds and the great night’s sleep.” Another writes, “perfect sounds available for a perfect price.”

Best White Noise App

Relaxing sounds you can access from anywhere (for free), ‎mynoise white noise app.

Number of sounds : 20, more with membership | Noise type : White noise, nature sounds, ambient noise | Nightlight : No

Not interested in a standalone white noise machine? Luckily, there’s an app for that. Mynoise is available in both the App Store and on Google Play and has 20 free sounds. In addition to white noise and nature sounds, you can explore temple bells, Gregorian chanting, Tibetan choir singing, even the hum of a restaurant and office. There are also in-app purchases available to unlock the entire sound library. A stand-out feature of the mynoise app is its color-coded sliders, which lets you calibrate frequency intensity to mask specific (and annoying) sounds that are making it hard to fall asleep. It also means truly personalized noises, which is particularly beneficial if you’re experiencing any age-related hearing loss. According to mynoise, the calibration procedure measures your hearing level and adapts frequencies accordingly.

What the reviews say: The mynoise app has thousands of great reviews. One describes it as the best background noise app in the store and writes, “It is more powerful and more customizable than others and the sounds are of higher quality. You will never hear the loop. it might not even exist in the way it does in other apps. The sliders and mixer features provide an inconceivable number of changeable background noises and environments.”

Best White Noise Machine with Classic Sleep Sounds

Easy-to-use with great sound quality, lectrofan evo white noise machine.

Number of sounds : 22 | Noise type : White noise, fan, ocean | Nightlight : No

The Lectrofan is a straightforward sound machine with 22 sound options, including a great variety of classic sleep sounds. There are 20 different white noise and fan variations, plus two ocean wave options, and they’re all dynamically generated for continuous, non-looping sound. That means no disruptive pause while the recording stops and starts again. Reviewers say the sound quality of the Lectrofan is excellent, and the wide volume range means you can muffle all kinds of external noise. It’s also user-friendly, with automatic off timers and a compact size that makes it useful for travel.

What the reviews say: The Lectrofan is highly rated, with close to 8,000 reviews and 4.5 stars. “Everything about this unit is fantastic. The shape of it, the speakers, the ergonomic and intuitively placed buttons. Sounds are excellent as are the speakers, you get a great range of sounds in both type and pitch,” says one customer.

The Best Casual Shoes For Men That Earn Top Reviews And Praise

Walking pad deals: save up to $299 on best-selling models, why trust forbes vetted.

The Forbes Vetted team are experts in all things sleep. From the best mattresses of 2023 to the top sleep trackers , we’ve written hundreds of articles to guide you to a good night’s rest. Our deputy editor Dave Johnson , executive strategy editor Lindsay Boyers and senior strategy editor Katie Simpson have combined decades of experience testing and reviewing products that impact sleep. Our team has also forged relationships with medical professionals and sleep specialists who share insights on these devices. For this guide on white noise machines, we tapped neurologist W. Christopher Winter, audiologist Rebecca Lewis and pediatric otolaryngologist Cher Zhao to elaborate on the benefits of sound machines and how to best use them.

To provide the most useful advice, we regularly update this article to add new white noise machines that meet our standards, expand our buyer’s guide with more savvy shopping tips and answer common questions about sound machines. It was last updated in September 2023 to do all three.

How We Chose The Best White Noise Machines

To find the best white noise machines on the market today, we started by seeking out popular models from reputable brands, such as Hatch, Homedics, Tuft & Needle, Snooz and others listed above. From there, we evaluated each white noise machine by the number of sounds they offer, the type of noise they play (whether it be nature sounds, lullabies, white noise or a combination of all three), and any bonus features like a nightlight, sunrise alarm or built-in baby monitor.

To narrow the list further, we consulted customer reviews. Every white noise machine needed to have stellar ratings—no less than 4 out of 5 stars—to make our list.

Once we finalized our top picks, we made sure to choose a sound machine for a variety of sleep types and preferences, such as parents searching for an option for their baby, toddler or older child or those in need of a portable device.

What To Consider When Shopping For A White Noise Machine

When searching for the best white noise machine for you, take a look at each device’s sound selection, light options and whether it’s customizable and made with the age of the user in mind. Below, we explore each of these factors in detail.

Sound Selection

In this category, personal preference rules. Fortunately, the wide variety of white noise machines on the market offer sounds to match anyone’s needs, from whirring fans to soothing nature sounds.

Beyond straightforward, consistent noises, some sound machines include special content such as meditations, sleep stories and lullabies for when you’re not in the singing mood.

Customization

Most people will probably be perfectly happy with a selection of a few types of sounds. However, if you’re seeking more versatility, consider the Hatch Restore Sound Machine , which lets you create personalized sleep routines with sounds and lights.

Light Options

Whether or not you want a nightlight should be one of your first considerations when shopping for a white noise machine because that option isn’t standard. Some models offer several color options to help set the mood.

Age Of User

Many sound machines can work for all ages (whether or not they’re marketed that way), but pay attention to these features before you buy. For an infant, for instance, you may want a model that offers hushed sounds, lullabies and a nightlight. Adults may prefer a machine that offers nature noises, meditations or a glow that mimics the sunset versus a rainbow of sherbet colors.

Volume Options

Noise machines are designed to block distracting sounds, but they shouldn’t be too loud, so look for one with volume control. Rebecca Lewis , Au.D., audiologist and audiology director of the Adult & Pediatric Cochlear Implant Program at Pacific Neuroscience Institute at Providence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, California, recommends keeping white noise machines at a lower volume and/or setting a timer to turn them off during the night. “It’s unsafe to be listening at a loud level all night long,” she says, since cranking it up too loud could impact your hearing. If you’re unsure if your machine is at a safe noise level, she suggests downloading a sound meter app to your device.

Portability

Managing noise, especially in new environments, can make it easier to fall asleep. Some sound machines are designed to be travel-friendly, so if that’s important to you, look for a compact white noise machine that’s easy to pack.

How White Noise Machines Work

White noise machines play steady, continuous sound to drown out your environment. Traffic, sirens, barking dogs or distracting noises from neighbors can all contribute to difficulty sleeping. Although there’s no evidence that using a white noise machine will help you sleep longer or more deeply, Winter says “if you’re struggling to sleep or your bedroom gets noisy at night, it may help.”

While sound machines as a whole are generally described as white noise machines, most aren’t limited to white noise only. The color of a noise describes both its strength and its frequency, and different color noises have their own unique sounds.

White Noise

This sound includes an equal amount of all frequencies in the spectrum of sounds. It has a consistent static hum that can be high-pitched and even intense, like a vacuum cleaner or hair dryer. White noise works particularly well for masking other sounds, so it’s a good choice when you’re trying to relax into sleep in a noisy environment.

Pink noise has deeper sound waves and it stays steadier than other colored noises. That gives it a flat, even sound, comparable to steady rain or waves crashing on a beach.

Brown Noise

Brown noise is similar to white noise in that it contains all sound frequencies, but there’s more emphasis on deeper frequencies. Brown noise has more of a rumbling sound, similar to heavy rain or a strong waterfall.

Blue noise emphasizes higher frequencies, so it can sound high pitched and energetic, similar to the hissing spray of water. If you aren’t sensitive to higher-pitched sounds, you may find blue noise relaxing.

How To Choose A White Noise Machine For a Baby

For babies, look for a white noise machine that has a few specific features:

• Volume control. Cher Zhao, MD, a pediatric otolaryngologist at Massachusetts Eye and Ear, says it’s important to set the volume as low as possible.
• White noise. The continuous, low-pitch hum of true white noise works particularly well for babies, so make sure that’s an option in the sound library.
• Auto shut-off. A timer feature that automatically turns off the white noise machine means you don’t have to manually shut it off once your baby falls asleep.
• Night light option. A white noise machine with an integrated night light reduces clutter and makes midnight diaper changes so much easier.

Keep in mind that white noise machines are considered safe for babies provided you use them properly, says Zhao. “In infants, it is recommended to limit the duration of use of sound machines, due to the risk that prolonged noise exposure at a high volume could have detrimental effects during a crucial period of their auditory development,” she says. Zhao also recommends keeping the white noise machine as far as possible away from your baby—a distance of at least 6.5 feet.

What Is The Best White Noise Machine?

Like other sleep gadgets, the best white noise machine ultimately comes down to personal preference. We like the Hatch Restore Sound Machine since it comes with extra features like personalized sleep routines and a sunrise alarm that help you establish healthy sleep habits. When thinking about the best choice for you, consider your own needs. Maybe you need a machine that’s designed for kids or babies, or a portable device you can pack on your next vacation.

Are White Noise Machines Safe For Babies?

White noise machines are considered safe for babies, provided you use them properly, says Cher Zhao, MD, a pediatric otolaryngologist at Massachusetts Eye and Ear. “In infants, it is recommended to limit the duration of use of sound machines, due to the risk that prolonged noise exposure at a high volume could have detrimental effects during a crucial period of their auditory development,” she says. To ensure you’re using your white noise machine safely, Zhao recommends the following best practices:

• Place the white noise machine as far away as possible from your baby—at least 6.5 feet away
• Set the volume as low as possible
• Use a timer or shut off the sound once your baby falls asleep

Is It Okay To Listen To White Noise All Night?

Most experts advise against playing white noise all night. “There’s no reason to give your ears a noise dose while you sleep,” says Lewis . If you prefer to leave your white noise machine running, Lewis recommends keeping it at a lower volume and/or setting a timer to turn it off during the night.

What Is The Best Sound For White Noise?

White noise is a collection of frequencies that maintains the same intensity throughout the audible range, so it’s a uniform sound like a hiss or a “shhhh.” For true white noise, look for an even sound that’s similar to static or the noise of a hair dryer or vacuum cleaner.

How Do I Choose A White Noise Machine?

Individual preferences will play a role in the right white noise machine for you, but it’s helpful to consider sound selection, volume options, customization and features like Bluetooth connectivity for streaming, integrated night lights, portability and automatic shut-off. Your budget can also help steer you in the right direction.

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The 10 Best White Noise Machines of 2024

Drown out noisy neighbors with our top picks.

In This Article

Jump to a Section

• Our top picks

The Bottom Line

• What to Know Before Shopping

Your Questions, Answered

Better Homes & Gardens / Kristin Kempa

Whether it’s sirens or unexpected loud noises outside, your partner snoring, neighbors shuffling around upstairs, there are many distractions that can lead to you not sleeping well. That’s where the best white noise machines come in to mask all that unwanted ambient noise—or lack of—so you can get more rest.

When shopping for a white noise machine, Korina Bukhard , sleep expert and board advisor at Dozy Sleep says it’s important to consider sound options, button style, convenience and portability, timers, and looking for one which comes with an audio jack in case your partner doesn’t want to listen to white noise. 

For our best white noise machine picks, we researched the market extensively, looking at a range of factors, from the number of different sounds available, to price, functionality, size, and power. We also spoke to two sleep experts about what might help us nod off.

Best Overall

Lectrofan evo sound machine.

This compact, stylish, and affordable white noise machine is very easy to use. With a timer, headphone connector, and large range of sounds, you’ll be able to find the right setup for you.

The device isn’t battery-operated, so it’ll need to stay plugged into a power source.

Our pick of the best white noise machine is the LectroFan EVO . While it might not be the most technologically advanced gadget on our list, it still does everything you need it to, and then some, for a very reasonable price. It plays non-repeating digital noise in a range of colors: It has 10 fan sounds, 10 ambient noise sounds—including pink and brown noise—and two ocean soundscapes. 

The device is super simple to use, and once you’ve picked your favorite type of noise, it will be saved in the settings, and the machine will auto play that sound each time you turn it on. The speaker produces a clear and crisp sound, and there’s a wide volume range. It also comes with an optional timer you can set between one to eight hours, or play continuously, plus a 3.5mm connector for headphones if your partner isn’t quite as keen on white noise as you are.

It’s compact enough to travel everywhere with you, and as white noise machines go, it looks pretty good, too. It certainly won’t look out of place on your bedside table . You can power the LectroFan EVO via USB or the included A/C adaptor, but it doesn’t have an internal battery, so it does need to be plugged in.

Product Details: Dimensions: 4.7 x 4.7 x 3.3 inches | Sound options: 22 | Timer: Yes | Power: Plug-in

Best Budget

Homedics soundspa sound machine.

This super compact and lightweight machine is easy to use.

It doesn’t offer an attractive design.

If you’re looking for a good night’s sleep on a budget, you can’t go wrong with the HoMedics SoundSpa . This compact machine is super easy to use, with no complicated menus or settings, which is one of its big plus points. It can also run off electricity or four AA batteries, which, when coupled with its lightweight design and small size, makes it a good choice for travelers . While it’s not the prettiest machine out there, we’re willing to sacrifice some style for the affordable price.

The SoundSpa only has six sound options: white noise, thunder, summer night, ocean, brook, and rain. While the speaker does a pretty good job of covering noise overall, and each sound is distinct, you won’t find the same sound quality as a more expensive machine. However, the volume is controllable, and it does have a timer for 15, 30, or 60 minutes, or you can leave it on all night.

Product Details: Dimensions: 10 x 2.25 x 7.5 inches | Sound options: Six | Timer: Yes | Power: Battery

Lumie Bodyclock Shine 300

The Lumie has a large range of sounds and the additional functionality is impressive.

It’s very complicated and fiddly to set up and we would like the speaker to be higher quality for the money.

If you're looking to splurge, we think the Lumie Bodyclock Shine 300 is worth the cost. This clever device can manage your entire evening and morning routine, which you would expect for the money. The only thing it can’t do is put the kids to bed. 

With a range of 15 sleep and wake sounds, including blackbirds, thunderstorms, tree frogs, plus your standard white noise, you should definitely be able to find something that works for you. You can listen to your preferred sound for 15 to 90 minutes on a timer. While the speaker delivers good quality sound, we would expect it to be a little clearer for the price tag.

The Lumie Bodyclock comes with a lot of additional functionality. In fact, the white noise machine aspect is just one feature of many. However, with all those features, including a radio, a low-blue light, tap-control snooze, sundown/sunrise light, and more, comes a lot of settings to adjust. Unless you have a regular routine and like to stick to the same timings and sleep sound, it may be frustrating to continually navigate the many possible settings. 

It’s not a small or compact machine, but we think it looks pretty smart with its inviting glow and sculptured, curved shape. 

Product Details: Dimensions: 5.1 x 9 x 7.9 inches | Sound options: 15 | Timer: Yes | Power: Plug-in

Best Portable

Adaptive sound technologies lectrofan micro 2 sound machine.

It’s tiny, and the rechargeable battery can last up to 40 hours playing sleep sounds, so it’s perfect for traveling.

It doesn’t have auto-off timers, and the buttons are small.

Good things really do come in small packages. The LectroFan Micro2 white noise machine is only 2 inches tall, so it’s the perfect companion for your travels. The only problem is that it’s so small, you might lose it in your bag!

This tiny-but-mighty machine offers 11 digital sounds, including fan noises, white noise and rainfall sounds, which play on a loop. However, the loop isn’t discernible so you won’t be distracted by it. It also doubles as a Bluetooth speaker if you’d prefer to nod off to your favorite audiobook. Chargeable via USB-C, it will last up to 40 hours playing sleep sounds or up to 20 hours if you’re using it as a speaker. 

It’s available in several colors—black, white, red, and blue—and resembles a small jar. You can twist the black speaker grille on top for directional audio. The device is easy to operate, with a few buttons, including volume adjustment. The buttons are quite small though, and may prove a little fiddly for some people. 

The downsides are that there’s no auto-off timer, so the device will play all night. Plus, the carrying case is sold separately , if you want to keep it protected while out and about.

Product Details: Dimensions: 1.97 x 2.09 x 1.97 inches | Sound options: 11 | Timer: No | Power: Battery

Best Design

Hatch restore 2.

It has lots of additional functionalities to improve your overall sleep routine.

It’s pricey, and if you want to access all the sleep sounds, sleep stories, and morning stretches, you have to buy an additional $5-per-month subscription.

The Hatch Restore 2 is a white noise machine, sunrise lamp , and smart alarm clock in one seriously smart-looking package. This is one white noise machine that will blend in with most interiors: It comes in three neutral colors, is relatively compact, and looks and feels high quality. It uses a combination of lights and sound to help you with both your evening and morning routines. 

Many of Hatch Restore 2’s functions are accessed through an app. There are options if you don’t subscribe, but you’re given access to more sounds, sleep stories, and morning stretches if you pay an additional $5 a month, on top of the device’s initial cost.

There are plenty of white noise options though, which can be used in conjunction with colored light. Under the Sleep tab in the app’s library, there’s everything from white and pink noise, to a vacuum cleaner, dishwasher, and evening crickets. The sound quality is good, and it’s easy to control through your phone, or by using the two big buttons on top of the device. However, due to its size and lack of rechargeable battery, it’s not particularly portable. 

Product Details: Dimensions: 7.24 x 2.43 x 5.31 inches | Sound options: 37 (with membership) | Timer: Yes | Power: Plug-in

Best for Babies and Kids

Dreamegg portable white noise machine.

It’s good value for money, portable, has a decent nightlight, a rechargeable battery, and a range of sounds designed for babies and children.

Although it has 11 sounds available, there’s only one white noise and one fan option, with no rainfall either.

The affordable Dreamegg D11 can definitely be used as a white noise machine by adults, but is geared towards babies and young children. It comes with 11 sound options, including lullaby, shushing, fetal tone, vacuum, music box, and a fairground sound. Unlike most white noise machines that have multiple white noise and fan options, the Dreamegg D11 only has one of each and also doesn’t come with a rainfall sound, which is a popular option.

The sound from the speaker is good quality, with realistic natural sounds, and can be turned up surprisingly loud as well. Although it can be left plugged in, it comes with a rechargeable internal battery so is great for traveling and settling babies on the move. The small rope and plastic loop also means it can easily be attached to cribs and cots.

A warming glow from the nightlight also helps to deliver a soothing sleep. The light is in a spiral design, and can be dimmed, or set to ‘breathing’ mode, where it repeatedly changes from dim to brighter. Even at night, the Dreamegg D11 is easy to use and operate, with clear buttons. And there’s a timer, which can be set to 30, 60, 90 minutes, or play continuously. 

Product Details: Dimensions: 5.48  x 4.81 x 3.82 inches | Sound options: 16 | Timer: Yes | Power: Battery

Best with Alarm Clock

Loftie clock.

It looks stylish, and includes a variety of sounds, stories, playlists, and meditations.

It’s expensive, and despite having an app, the sounds must be selected manually.

As well as getting you up in the morning, The Loftie Clock will help you to fall asleep peacefully. The intention of The Loftie Clock is to keep smartphones out of the bedroom, to enable a better night’s sleep. We love how chic and smart it looks, and the fact it wakes you up in two phases, rather than jolting you awake with an unpleasant noise. The first alarm introduces soft sounds, followed by melodic sounds nine minutes later, which apparently mimics a natural wake up. You can switch it into blackout mode if you’re sensitive to light, or there’s a warm night light if you need it. It is recommended you leave The Loftie Clock plugged in, but in case of a power outage, it does have a backup battery which will last a few hours. 

Unlike other devices, all the content is available for free on the Loftie app, and doesn’t require an additional subscription. There’s a huge range of content, from white noise, through to pink and brown noise, naturescapes, southbaths, customizable bedtime stories, and loads more. Apparently there are more than 100 sound options in total. The volume settings are also impressive, and you can easily drown out unwanted sounds.

We don’t love how complicated the setup is, and the fact there’s no real use for the app once you’ve gone through the setup process. To choose sounds, you have to click through them on the device itself, which is a bit annoying and would be better to do on the app.

Product Details: Dimensions:   6.5 x 2.75 x 6.5 inches  | Sound options: 100+ | Timer: Yes | Power: Plug-in

Best with Night Light

Reacher r2 white noise machine.

It has 31 sounds and doubles as a mood light.

It’s not the most robust or expensive-looking white noise machine.

The Reacher R2 may not be the prettiest white noise machine on our list, or the highest quality, but it offers a large number of sound and light options for a very reasonable price. In total, there are an impressive 31 sounds to choose from, with no additional subscription needed to access them. You can choose from white, brown, or pink noise, seven different fan sounds, plus 17 natural non-looping sounds, including thunderstorms, heartbeats, waves, or crickets, which all sound realistic.

You can set both the sound and light through a timer to automatically switch off in one, two or three hours. The light can be set on white, or switched to red, blue, yellow, pink, green, orange, or purple, so you can find which color works for you. It’s easy to dim so it’s perfect to use as a night light for children or adults . It can be powered by USB or AC, but doesn’t have a rechargeable battery, and is small enough to travel with.

Product Details: Dimensions: 4.5 x 4 x 4 inches | Sound options: 31 | Timer: Yes | Power: Plug-in

Best Sound Library

Sound+sleep se sleep sound machine.

It has 64 rich sounds, which appear to be genuinely non-looping. Plus, it has an adaptive volume function.

It’s one of the more expensive machines on our list and isn’t particularly portable.

The Adaptive Sound Technologies Sound+Sleep SE blows other white noise machines out of the water when it comes to the number of sounds it offers. Not only does it have a huge number—64 in total—each sound is high quality, with no discernible loops. On the device, the sounds are split into 16 sections, with four sounds in each section. The categories include rides, crowds, meditation, as well as different types of fans, white noise, pink noise, and brown noise. However you like to enjoy your sound, it’s likely you’ll find your favorite. With the auto timer, you can set it for 30, 60, 90, or 120 minutes.

The ‘adaptive’ in the machine’s name refers to a clever form of external sound masking. It features an internal microphone that listens out for noise. If the volume of traffic rises, for instance, the Sound+Sleep SE will turn up the volume to drown it out. When the sound reduces, so does the volume. This is an optional feature, and you can set it to one volume if you prefer. If you like to listen to white noise privately, there’s a headphone jack, as well as a 3.5mm audio input so you can use it as a speaker. There are also two USB-A charging ports included. 

The teardrop shape is stylish and looks smart. Overall, the device is also easy to use, with clearly labeled buttons. 

On the flipside, it’s one of the more expensive white noise machines on our list, and it does need to be plugged in. It’s also not particularly portable due to its larger size, so it wouldn’t suit someone who wants a device to travel with regularly.

Product Details: Dimensions: 7.5 x 5.5 x 4.5 inches | Sound options: 64 | Timer: Yes | Power: Plug-in

Best Battery-Operated

Yogasleep rohm portable.

It’s small, portable, lightweight, and masks unwanted sound well.

It only comes with three sound options, and the buttons will take a while to get used to.

The Yogasleep Rohm only comes with three sound options: bright white noise, deep white noise, and gentle surf. But if you know white noise is what helps you to sleep, you likely won’t be looking for a machine with a vast number of fancy sound options. The available sounds are good quality with no obvious looping, so you won’t be distracted, and the volume can be turned up pretty high to mask any unwanted sound.

You can charge the Rohm via USB. It takes four hours to fully charge, and can run up to eight hours on a full charge, so will need charging every day if you play it all night. It doesn’t come with many bells or whistles and doesn’t have a timer. 

It’s super portable: the machine is very lightweight, compact, and also comes with a lanyard so you can hang it on cots, infant car seats, or door handles. In terms of price, it’s not the cheapest, especially when you consider it only offers three sounds, but what it does do, it does very well. 

Product Details: Dimensions: 8.15 x 4.25 x 3.84 inches | Sound options: Three | Timer: No | Power: Battery

Our pick for the best white noise machine is the LectroFan EVO for its wide range of sound options, clear speaker, value for money, and compactness and robustness. It can go anywhere and help you to get a good night’s sleep wherever you are in the world.

What to Know About White Noise Machines Before Shopping

Sound options.

The best white noise machines go beyond just playing white noise. Many have a range of sound options so you can find what works for you. This could include soothing sounds like cat purring, a crackling fireplace, rain, gentle waves, a babbling brook, whales, or a tumble dryer. It could also include various fan sound settings, meditations, or sleep stories. 

You may have heard people refer to different colors of sound. What “color” a noise is depends on its frequency and strength:

• White noise includes all frequencies and is also known as broadband noise. It’s the hiss of TV static or the sound of an oscillating fan (a fan isn’t technically white noise but has the same effect). Jeff Kahn , published sleep expert and CEO and co-founder of Rise Science says that a quiet fan “can be a useful substitute for a white noise machine because it does double duty on noise management and temperature regulation. A quiet fan can make it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep by cooling you down.” 
• Brown noise has a deeper sound than other colors and is often described as the sound of heavy rain or a waterfall.
• Green noise is compared to the sound of a gentle flow of water or a breeze. 
• Pink noise is a mixture of white and brown noise, and covers things like waves, steady rain, or leaves being rustled by the wind. 

Portability

If you’re someone who travels frequently, you may want to find a white noise machine you can easily take with you. Bukhard says, “a portable machine is more convenient since you can move it to your side of the bed or carry it along when traveling.” This will mean finding a machine that is small enough to fit in your bag, and potentially one with a rechargeable battery rather than one which plugs into the mains. 

While looking for the best white noise machines, it’s important to find one which has adjustable volume. Khan says you need “to ensure the noise level is comfortable and safe.” The level of volume is a personal preference, and will depend on your sleeping environment to some extent. If you live in a quiet suburb, a lower volume may be enough to add ambient noise in your room, while a city apartment may require a louder device to drown out outside noise.

There are lots of factors to consider when shopping for white noise machines. You might want a simple and cheaper product that offers white noise and nothing else, or you might be looking for something with a range of features and extras. Some things to consider are volume control, good buttons, and a timer—which can be useful to turn off the noise automatically after a certain period, and potentially enhance sleep after you’ve fallen asleep, according to Kahn. 

You should also consider the range of sounds: “White noise itself can come in a variety of sounds like rain falling or a fan whirring, while some people may find they prefer pink noise or brown noise,” Kahn says. Some white noise machines digitally generate sounds, and some play recordings. Bukhard says, “White noise machines have a real fan inside, recordings of the noise, or digitally generate the sounds. If the user prefers the authentic sound, they should get one with a mechanical fan inside. If they don’t want one with the fan or prefer listening to different natural sounds, consider one with recordings, as they come with white noise options with different frequencies.”

What type of noise is best for sleep?

Most experts and studies suggest that silence is the best “noise” for sleep. Bukhard says, “Ultimately, black noise silence is the best for sleep. But if you want to manage distractions, you can try white noise, which makes other sounds less significant. So, for example, if you live in an area where loud outside noise disrupts your sleep, white noise will help. You can also use brown noise to mask distracting sounds if they are not too loud. If you want better-quality sleep, pink noise is your best option.” 

Kahn agrees. “When it comes to sleep, there’s lots of evidence to suggest the best “noise” is silence. That’s because noise can interfere with falling asleep and disrupt the quality of sleep you get. … When silence isn't possible, or perhaps invites anxious thoughts, white continuous noise—or other colors like pink or brown—may improve sleep by masking other noises that would otherwise disturb your sleep.”

Are there sound machines that play all night?

There are white noise machines that play all night. “Most sound machines have timers, and you can select them to play for 30 minutes, 60 minutes, or 90 minutes, or you can also have it play continuously for the whole night,” Bukhard says. While it is possible to have a continuous white noise machine, it’s potentially not the best idea. “I don’t recommend it [an all-night white noise machine] necessarily," Khan says. "While we don’t have evidence to suggest playing white noise all night is unsafe, per se, if you need it at night to fall asleep, it’s worth setting it on a timer. However, if you live in a noisy environment, then it might be worth leaving it on all night to protect your sleep as much as possible.”

How loud should a white noise machine be?

According to Bukhard, white noise machines “should be a maximum of 50 decibels, even though the best range is 44-48 dB. The white noise gets a little annoying for most people at dB any higher than that, and it becomes a nuisance.” For context, 50 decibels is equivalent to a quiet refrigerator. Khan broadly agrees, saying white noise machines should be quiet. “I recommend a volume that is just loud enough to mask unwanted noise.”

This article was written by Rachael Hogg , a freelance writer and editor with more than a decade of experience writing about food and drink and lifestyle, including kitchen and home products. While researching this guide, she considered a variety of white noise machines at different price points, looking at functionality, effectiveness and ease of use. She also spoke with published sleep expert Jeff Kahn , CEO and co-founder of Rise Science and Korina Bukhard , sleep expert and board advisor at Dozy Sleep to find out what users should look for from a white noise machine.

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The 10 Best Travel Fans for Your Adventures

Embarking on a journey is among life's most delightful experiences, and the anticipation of packing for a vacation or an extended adventure adds to the excitement. Amidst the thrill, remember to include your reliable travel fan, a small device that could become your saving grace on scorching days in tropical destinations! The abundance of choices might make selecting the perfect style seem daunting. Fret not – we've compiled an overview of the finest travel fans, simplifying the decision-making process for you. Just choose your favorite, and you'll be all set for an incredible journey.

A travel fan offers a multitude of benefits that significantly enhance the overall travel experience. Its compact and portable design ensures that relief from the heat is always within reach, whether you're navigating bustling city streets or exploring the great outdoors. The customizable comfort provided by adjustable speed settings caters to individual preferences, ensuring the perfect balance between coolness and personal warmth. With rechargeable batteries and long-lasting power, travel fans are not only eco-friendly but also reliable for extended periods.

Unleash cool comfort on your travels with our portable travel fan  Amazon Basics 3 Speed Small Room Air Circulator Fan the perfect blend of power and portability for a refreshing breeze wherever you go!

Our Top Picks

Committed to assisting you in making informed choices, our team diligently scrutinizes and compares each product. Our detailed reports provide crucial information, enabling you to make confident and knowledgeable decisions.

1. Best Overall: Amazon Basics 3 Speed Small Room Air Circulator Fan

2. Best Budget: Gaiatop Portable Hand Held Fan

3. Best Material:  JISULIFE Battery Rechargable Fan

4. Best Durability: Vornado Flippi V6 Personal Air Circulator Fan

5. Best Design:  JZCreater USB Desk Mini Fan Portable

Top 5 Best Travel Fans

1. Amazon Basics 3 Speed Small Room Air Circulator Fan

Product Summary

An easily portable and lightweight choice that effortlessly fits into your bag or pocket. Featuring adjustable speed settings, a rechargeable battery, and a 360-degree rotation, this fan guarantees you stay cool in any circumstance. Noteworthy for its ultra-portability, quiet operation, and extended battery life.

Specification

• Air circulating fan with 7-inch blade for improving air flow in small rooms; suitable for tabletop or floor placement
• 3 speed settings: low, medium, and high; back-mounted control knob with intuitive settings (0, 1, 2, 3) more

Reasons to buy

• Designed to be compact and lightweight, making them easy to carry wherever you go.
• Offers quick heat relief, particularly in warm areas.
• Enables you to alter the airflow to suit your comfort preferences.

Reasons to avoid

Due to their compact size, travel fans may have a limited reach and may not be as effective in larger spaces.

2. Gaiatop Portable Hand Held Fan

A versatile option that serves as both a power bank, ensuring your devices stay charged while providing cooling comfort. With three adjustable speed levels and a compact design, this fan is essential for on-the-go travelers. Highlighting dual functionality, strong airflow, and a robust build for added durability.

• Powerful Airflow and Long Battery Life: The fan has 2 speeds which puts out quite a bit of airflow and a nice breeze. 2000mAh battery life lasts a long time. Fully charge 2.5 hours and run 14-21 hours. The blades are soft and safe. when the blades hit your fingers, it doesn’t hurt and it stops as soon as you hit it.
• 2000mAh Power Bank Fuction: This 2-in-1 fan can work as a power bank in an emergency. It comes with a 2000mAh rechargeable battery and 5V/1A usb output port, so you can charge your phone, laptop, MP3 or other things with it in a pinch. more
• Come with rechargeable batteries, eliminating the need for disposable ones.
• Can be powered through USB, making them versatile and compatible with various devices.
• Operates quietly, suitable for use in quiet environments or while sleeping.

Reasons to avoid.

The smaller blades on travel fans may produce less airflow compared to larger, stationary fans.

3. JISULIFE Battery Rechargable Fan

Blending style seamlessly with functionality, this fan presents a distinctive design and robust performance. Boasting soft cloth blades, two-speed settings, and a foldable design for effortless storage and portability. Recognized for its stylish aesthetics, dependable performance, and whisper-quiet operation.

• 【Portable & Gift Choice】FA26 desk fan weighs only 216g with cordless design, lighter, thinner, and more portable. It's perfect for use in office, desktop, bedroom，kitchen, camping, travel, etc. Practicality as a gift for women men kids.
• 【180°Foldable】FA26 desktop fan with a 180-degree swivel stand that can stand or hang. Ultra-wide angle square-shaped diverting body structure gathers wind power on all sides which can blow high-speed airflow. more
• Come with adjustable airspeed settings, allowing for versatile drying tailored to different detailing needs.
• Eliminate the need for towels, reducing the consumption of disposable materials and contributing to sustainability.
• The compact and lightweight design of these blowers makes them easy to use and store, ideal for at-home car care.

May have a shorter battery life, requiring more frequent recharging during extended use.

4. Vornado Flippi V6 Personal Air Circulator Fan

• VORTEX ACTION — Utilizes Vornado's signature Vortex air circulation to more effectively move all the air around you.
• SIMPLE CONTROLS — The 2-speed manual control is easy to use and allows you to dial in your comfort. more
• Can provide extended periods of use on a single charge.
• Designed for easy maintenance, with removable grills or blades.
• Sturdy construction ensures the fan can withstand the rigors of travel.

In crowded situations, a travel fan may only provide relief to the user, making it less suitable for cooling multiple people.

5. JZCreater USB Desk Mini Fan Portable

With a 10-inch blade, dual-speed settings, and the flexibility of batteries or USB power, this fan excels in adaptability for various settings. It serves as a larger alternative, catering to those seeking enhanced cooling capabilities on the go. Its expanded size ensures increased airflow, complemented by versatile power choices and an adjustable head for personalized comfort.

• 【Exquisite Design】 JZCreater small portable fan is compact and designed in unique modern look, lightweight and space-saving. It weighs about 160g which is very convenient to carry，suitable for home, office, desktop, car, camping, travel use or gift.
• 【Ultra Quiet】Feature with brush-less quiet motor, which makes the mini fan run quietly yet blow strong airflow. When in use the fans sound is lower than 50db at the high speed. The switch indicator will auto turn off after 30 seconds, power saving, soft wind and bass provide a good sleeping for baby. more
• An create a more comfortable sleeping environment with gentle breeze and white noise.
• Rechargeable batteries reduce the environmental impact of disposable batteries.
• Despite their compact size, many travel fans provide strong and effective airflow.
• The compact design may lead to more frequent cleaning, especially in environments where dust and debris are prevalent.

Buying Guides

Portability:

Seek out a design that is both compact and lightweight, effortlessly fitting into your travel bag or backpack. The emphasis on portability ensures convenient on-the-go use.

Power Source:

Choose between rechargeable batteries, USB-powered options, or those with both capabilities. This provides flexibility and ensures you have power sources readily available.

Adjustable Speed Settings:

Opt for a travel fan with multiple speed settings to customize airflow based on your comfort level and environmental conditions.

Battery Life:

Consider the fan's battery life, especially if you plan to use it for extended periods. A longer battery life is beneficial for day trips or long journeys between charging opportunities.

Noise Level:

Check reviews for information on the fan's noise level. A quieter operation is preferable, especially if you plan to use the fan in quiet environments or while sleeping.

Durability:

Look for a travel fan with sturdy construction that can withstand the rigors of travel. This is particularly important if you're going to use it in various settings or outdoor activities.

Versatility:

Assess additional features such as oscillation, 360-degree rotation, or the ability to be used as a desk fan. Versatile features enhance the fan's utility in different scenarios.

Design and Aesthetics:

Consider the fan's design and aesthetics, especially if style is important to you. Some fans come in various colors or unique designs that can complement your travel gear.

Compare Products

Amazon basics 3 speed small room air circulator fan.

Gearz Score is a ranking system developed by CarAndTruck.org.  Gearz Score  has no relationship or impact from any manufacturers or sales agent websites.  Learn more

• Brand Amazon Basics
• Product Dimensions: 6.3 x 11.1 x 10.9 inches (LxWxH)    more

JISULIFE Handheld Mini Fan

• Brand JISULIFE
• 【Small In Size, Big On Function】 Combined with Fan + Flashlight + Backup Power Bank function, JISULIFE F8 pocket bear fan would be an everyday-carry-essential fan to cool you off in hot day and is multifunctional to satisfy your diverse needs.
• 【14-21 Hours Cooling Time】Up to 21 hours cooling time in one full charge. Super long battery life allows you to enjoy it while travelling, commuting, working and any other outdoor activities. This mini handheld fan is USB rechargeable through regular usb socket, laptop, power bank or car charger.    more

Nezylaf Handheld Mini Fan

• Brand Nezylaf
• 🧊【Super Long Endurance and Strong Airflow】- Low/high speed level. Adjust appropriate fan speed by pressing the power button repeatedly. Two gear which can be variable speed design provides you more choices in different temperature environment.
• 🧊【Customer Service】- Nezylaf provides professional customer service before and after purchase.We offer not only Best desk fan but also superb customer service.    more

Stroller Fan Battery Operated

• Brand EXIN DECHEN
• warranty: We provide 36 months warranty and lifetime after-sales service.
• Superior Flexibility: This flexible tripod is made of high-quality metal and silicone cover, allowing you to adjust it to any angle you want. It also has a 360-degree horizontal rotation, which makes it suitable for use on tables, strollers, and tents.    more

Gaiatop Portable Hand Held Fan

• Brand Gaiatop
• 2 Inch Versatile Mini Fan: This battery operated fan is perfect for stroller, crib, car seat, desk, gym, camping, cycling or anywhere else you'd need extra wind. Small size allows you to pack the hand fan with you when travelling, Present beautiful lanyards,you can hang it on your hands or travel backpack.
• Run While Charging: This handheld portable fan get power supply from USB devices, such as powerbank, computer, laptop, USB charger. It can be fully charged within 2.5 hours and used when you are working, walking or travel outdoor.    more

Amazon Basics 3 Speed Box Fan

• Lightweight with carrying handle for easy transport
• 3 speed settings: low, medium, and high; front-facing control knob    more

EasyAcc Mini Portable Fan Handheld Fan

• Brand EasyAcc
• 🎁🎄【Christmas Gift for Kids, Girls and Women 】Nice gift for kids to keep cool and gift for girls to dry eyeliner, makeup spray or nail polish etc, or take it for traveling, Disney World, musical festivals, Party etc. 💖 Special care and heartwarming gift for women who is durring climacteric and suffer from hot flash.
• 🍃【Durability &Persistence&Environmental friendly 】Annoyed about for the mini fan only works 1 week, 1 month, 3 months? EasyAcc F18 mini handheld fan after Tens of thousands customers test, it is durable, which is good for resources saving, do not wasting. Environmental friendly and save your money.    more

JZCreater USB Desk Mini Fan Portable

• Brand JZCreater
• 【High Compatibility USB-powered】This desk fan comes with a USB which is 3.7ft long and is in sync with all USB ports present on computer, wall charger etc just put it on power hassle free.(Note:This fan has no battery)    more

JISULIFE Battery Rechargable Fan

• 【Worry-Free Service】Please feel free to get in touch with our customer service team once you meet a problem with this fan; JISULIFE provides 180 days hassle-free replacement and refund policy for this desk fan. We always insist to reply within 24 hours.    more

Vornado Flippi V6 Personal Air Circulator Fan

• Brand Vornado
• Built to meet U. S. voltage requirements. Certified, safety-tested, and warrantied for use only in the U. S.
• SUPERIOR SUPPORT — Backed by a 3-year hassle-free promise and supported by a customer service team based in Andover, KS.    more

Last update on 2024-04-06 / Affiliate links / Images, Product Titles, and Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

Can I use a travel fan while charging it?

This depends on the specific model. Some travel fans allow simultaneous use and charging, while others may not. Refer to the product manual or specifications to determine if this feature is supported.

Are travel fans easy to clean?

Many travel fans are designed for easy cleaning. Look for models with removable grills or blades that facilitate cleaning. Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and airflow.

Final Thoughts

A travel fan proves to be an invaluable companion for anyone on the move. Whether exploring bustling cities, enjoying outdoor activities, or simply seeking respite from the heat, a travel fan offers personalized comfort and relief. With a wide range of options available to suit different preferences and budgets, investing in a reliable travel fan ensures that you can stay refreshed and comfortable throughout your journeys, making it an essential addition to any traveler's gear. Stay cool, stay comfortable, and enhance your travel experiences with the convenience of a travel fan.

Read more review here:  The 10 Best Car Dryer Blowers

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Best Travel Fans 2019

Traveling with a fan is important. See, not every office you visit will have a functioning air conditioning system and if you are out camping, the weather may get hotter than you anticipated. It is not advisable you travel with a tower fan; it’s too cumbersome to carry. A travel fan is the best option for when you hit the road. Travel fans are smaller and lighter than the normal fans. Here is what to look at on a travel fan

• Portability: You want a fan that is easy to port. Choose a small and lightweight fan. It is worth noting that because of the size, your fan won’t have the same impact as a large fan.
• Noise level: Choose a fan that runs quiet.
• Run time: How long do you want your fan to run? The answer to this will determine the travel fan you get. We recommend one that can run for up to 10 hours.

OPOLAR Battery Operated USB Rechargeable Fan, Portable Personal Handheld Fan, 3-13 Running Time, 3 Speeds, Enhanced Wind with Internal and Side Light, Quiet Desk Fan for Boating,Travel,Camping,-4 inch

• 🍉【POWERFUL WIND AND QUIETNESS】 The maximum rotating speed of the fan is 3200 rpm which is enough for personal use to keep you cool. Low and medium settings are decent and super quiet which ensure the peaceful flow of air. The fan works on the principle of more airflow, but less noise to give you a relieved sleep.
• 🍉【3-13 WORKING HOURS AND ADJUSTABLE 3 SPEEDS】The outdoor fan operates with 2200mAh Improved battery (type-18650) and can operate for 3-13 hours after a full charge. The speed of this portable desk fan can also be adjusted among low, medium, and high according to your demands.
• 🍉【PORTABLE AND COMPACT】It is trouble-free to put this small (4.1x1.6 X 5.9 inch, weight-7 ounces) and the exquisite rechargeable fan into a bag and carry it for outdoor events. Also, it can be used for indoor purposes if you need a portable fan to create flow in every corner of your premises.
• 🍉【SIDE AND INTERNAL LED LIGHT】 The blue internal LED lights infused in the fan make it even more advantageous and attractive to look at. The side light is quite bright and can be useful in the dark areas or if electricity is out. It is a perfect companion for any outdoor plans and traveling purpose.
• 🍉【USB POWERED FAN 】 This fan runs on 5 volts DC, which is the USB standard. You need to plug the fan into an USB port for power like an USB outlet, computer, laptop or power bank and so on. This handheld fan will work on 110 or 220 volts which can be carried to all over the world.

O2COOL 5" Portable USB or Electric Fan, Blue/Gray

• 5" Portable USB or Electric Fan with Adapter.
• Dual source: plug into your computer with USB
• Plug into electrical outlet with adapter (included)
• Powerful fan offers quiet cooling
• Compact folding design for travel or storage

EasyAcc 2600mah Battery Handheld Fan Portable Battery Operated USB Fan Mini Personal Fan Outdoor Electric Fan with Rechargeable LG 2600mAh Battery Adjustable 3 Speeds Foldable Home and Travel -Black

• Kindly Note：If the fan cannot work when unplugged, please charge it for 2 hours to wake-up the battery again.
• 💯【EasyAcc the Most Classic Fan 】EasyAcc major in Fan industry over 10 years. This portable handheld fan is EasyAcc the most classic fan with super strong wind, high quality, nice price, cost-saving. Please take it into your cart without hesitate. 💖Please REMOVE the INSULATING SHEET before using the fan, otherwise the Battery will NOT WORK.
• ❶【Strong Airflow- 3 Adjustable Settings】Low-medium-high 3 adjustable speed level. Updated 6- blade enhance airflow and reduce noisy. ➊ Speed 1: 2100rpm; ➋ Speed 2: 2900rpm; ➌ Speed 3: 3600rpm.
• ❷【Ensures 10 Hours Wireless Working Time】Battery capacity support 10 Hours of use at lowest speed. ✔ EasyAcc battery capacity larger than similar handheld fan. With the USB charging cable, compatible with All USB output device.
• ❸【Multipurpose Design Foldable&Portable Fan】Indoor desktop fan and outdoor portable hand fan, foldable handle design, Convenient to Hold in Hand. Compact size also fits your handbag, perfect for outdoor activities and travel.
• 💖【For Various Scenarios or Travel 】Portable handy design easy to carry with you in everywhere, traveling, Disney World, musical festivals, football, Park, camping, wedding, Party, On Plane etc. 🎁 Special care and heartwarming gift for women who is durring climacteric and suffer from hot flash.
• 👍【LifeTime Warranty】EasyAcc specializes in FAN industry over 10 years, with advanced and mature technique, quality is guaranteed and worth trust. We provide lifetime warranty, no worry click to add into the shopping cart!

Honeywell HT-904 Tabletop Air-Circulator Fan White

• SMALL FLOOR OR TABLETOP FAN – Honeywell TurboForce HT-904 Air Circulator Fan provides cooling with quiet operation. It’s small enough to be a table or desk fan or be wall-mounted, and is powerful enough to provide cooling in small to medium sized rooms.
• FEEL THE POWER – Honeywell TurboForce fans have an aerodynamic turbo design to maximize air movement and power for intense cooling or energy-saving air circulation. You can feel the power of this small floor or desk fan from up to 25 feet away1.
• CUSTOMIZE YOUR COMFORT – With 3 speed options and a 90 degree pivoting/adjustable fan head, you’ll always be comfortable and cool! Customize your cooling to however you like it with this powerful and quiet fan.
• SMART SAVINGS – Fans for bedroom and home are an easy way to cool down any space and improve airflow. Give your air conditioner a break by using a portable indoor fan to help reduce your energy consumption and costs.
• HONEYWELL QUALITY – Help improve cooling and energy savings in your home, bedroom or office using a Honeywell fan. We offer personal fans, whole room fans, tower fans and oscillating fans that are a great choice.

VersionTECH. Handheld Fan, Small Portable Personal Mini Desk Table Folding Fan with USB Rechargeable Battery Operated Electric Fan for Office Outdoor Sport Household Traveling Camping Green-White

• ☀【A Multipurpose Design】: This fan is a handheld fan, but it is not only a hand-held fan, but also a desk fan. Now I'll tell you how to turn it into a table fan.①First, take the fan to face yourself and turn the fan head 180°clockwise,and then put it on the desk;②Second,If you want to restore it to a hand-held fan, rotate it to counter clockwise 180°.NOTE:Remember to operate this way.
• ☀【Anti Drop Hand Rope Design】: The material of the rope is silica gel(environment-friendly and smooth and elastic), the main thing is that it won't hurt your wrist.When you use it in your hand, you can directly buckle it on your wrist, so that the fan will prevent falling to the ground, causing unnecessary losses.When you go on a trip or climb a mountain, you can tie the rope directly to your backpack to be portable, and it don't take up the space in your backpack.
• ☀【Energy Source Details】:This fan uses a 2000mA battery,and a USB port rechargeable model. USB cable can be charged with computer, mobile power, power bank and so on.NOTE:Try not to use the product when charging, which will increase the battery loss.And when charging, fans can only output 1 speed of wind to protect batteries.
• ☀【3 Speed Level】:Low/medium/high speed level.Adjust appropriate fan speed by pressing the power button repeatedly.And 7pcs fan blades, strong wind, wind distance up to 3m. Brushless motor makes the fan durable.Efficient power and conversion circuitry can minimize the loss to save energy and protect environment.
• ☀【Portable Design】:When you go outside, you can put it in the bag with you,especially suitable for summer travel or outdoor sports,you can take it to anywhere,like NBA/Football World Cup in Russia/Football Game/or any activity.The hot summer is coming. You can send this fan to your family and friends as a gift.

AceMining Rechargeable Battery Operated Fan with 3 speeds, Strong Wind, Long Battery life, Quiet Operation, Small usb Desk Fan, Portable battery powered fan, Cooling for Home, Office, Travel, Camping

OPOLAR 8 Inch Desk Fan(Included Adapter), USB Operated, 4 Speeds+Natural Wind, Timer, Quiet Operation, Seven Blades, Adjustable Angle, Desktop Personal Cooling Fan for Office, Living Room, Bedroom

• 【4 Speeds+Natural Wind】-This USB operated portable fan comes with 4-speed control. You can adjust the speed from one-four to enjoy the cool breeze as you need. This fan makes you experience natural wind flow by increasing the speed from one-four and vice-versa in a circular motion. The maximum rotation speed of the fan is 1200 rpm.
• 【Quiet Operation】- The fan has a unique three curved blade design that makes the air flows smoothly. Not only this but also the fan has a brushless motor that reduces the noise to 40db. With the unique three-blade design and brushless motor, you experience a quiet operation similar to a whispering sound even when the fan is running on the high-speed.
• 【USB Powered+Adapter】- OPOLAR portable table fan comes with multiple power options. You can power it by an AC adaptor (comes included) that can be plugged into a wall socket. You can also power this portable fan with a USB cable (comes included). Simply, connect this fan to a universal USB outlet, laptop, etc. and enjoy the cool breeze. The AC adapter and USB cable are very easy to use.
• 【Timer Feature】-The fan is provided with a timer so that you never have to wake up during midnight to switch it off. Whenever the temperature is low, you can set the timer and sleep peacefully. Timer Modes available are for 1-2-4-8 hours
• 【90° Rotation】-The fan can be adjusted from 0°to 90°vertically. Suitable voltage: 110-220 Voltage

OPOLAR Small Handheld Battery Operated Travel Fan with Two 2200mAh Batteries, Portable & Rechargeable, Folding Design, Strong Airflow, 3 Setting, Ideal for Disney Outdoor Use

OPOLAR 5 Inch Desk Fan with Timer, USB or AA Battery Operated, 3 Speeds, Extra Quiet, 7-Blade Design, Adjustable Angle, for Office Desk, Hurricanes, Bedroom and Outdoor (Without Batteries)

• ★ 4*AA Battery Operated: The OPOLAR desk fan works on AA battery. The battery is long lasting so the fan can continue working for five long hours even when operating at the highest speed.
• ★ Timer Control: The fan is provided with 1, 2, 4-hour auto shut-off timer. After running for the set duration, the fan will automatically get switched off.
• ★ Multiple Power Supply Options: It comes with a charging cable that can be used via a power bank, car charger, computer, or a 5V wall USB charger.
• ★ 0 to 90 Degree Rotation: The fan can be rotated from 0 to 90 degrees to ensure covering the entire area. The vertical rotation design lets you take the fresh air directly to your face.
• ★ Compact Size and One Year Warranty: The fan is small with dimensions of 5.9*2.4*7.2 inches. You can carry it anywhere as it is lightweight measuring 330 G.

Vornado Flippi V6 Personal Air Circulator Fan, Black

• VORTEX ACTION — Utilizes Vornado's signature Vortex air circulation to more effectively move all the air around you.
• SIMPLE CONTROLS — The 2-speed manual control is easy to use and allows you to dial in your comfort.
• MULTI-DIRECTIONAL AIRFLOW — Equipped with an adjustable tilt head and manual swivel base that allow you to direct the air where you need it.
• INNOVATIVE DESIGN — Choose from a variety of colors with a high-gloss sleek finish and flip capability to conceal fan.Watts:14
• SUPERIOR SUPPORT — Backed by a 3-year hassle-free promise and supported by a customer service team based in Andover, KS.
• Built to meet U. S. voltage requirements Certified safety-tested and warrantied for use only in the U. S.
• Included Components: Flippi V6
• Owner's Guide

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Medea Giordano

The Best White-Noise Machines for a Blissful Night’s Sleep

If you buy something using links in our stories, we may earn a commission. This helps support our journalism. Learn more . Please also consider subscribing to WIRED

It's Technically Not White Noise A Note on Sound Machines

Best for Classic Sleep Sounds LectroFan Classic Read more

If You Sleep Best to the Sound of a Fan Yogasleep Dohm Classic Read more

A Multipurpose Machine With a Large Library Hatch Rest (2nd Generation) Read more

I cannot sleep in total silence. I need the hum of a fan or the crackle of a fire. Too much noise and I can't turn my brain off, but too little, and every toss, turn, or sniffle is amplified. Whether you feel the same or not, you probably still don’t get enough sleep , and if you’re like most people, it’s not for lack of trying. Help is available. A good sound machine is just one tool in an arsenal of gadgets that can help you get your recommended number of z’s.

WIRED’s gear reviewers have filled their homes with sound machines for everything from muffling Witcher battles in the living room while the kids snooze to help keep us asleep while night-owl partners sneak into bed. These are our favorite machines for getting some shut-eye. Be sure to read our other sleep-related buying guides, including the Best Mattresses , Best Sheets , and Best Sunrise Alarm Clocks .

Note: If you're buying for a child, the American Academy of Pediatrics warns parents to keep sound machines to around 50 decibels and farther than 200 centimeters (6.5 feet) from where your baby sleeps.

Updated October 2023: We’ve added sound machines from RaptBaby and ErgoPouch.

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It's Technically Not White Noise

You've likely heard "white-noise machines" more often than “sound machines” but that technically is incorrect. The steady background whirr produced by most of these machines isn't white noise at all. Most sound machines use pink or brown noise instead. If you think of sound waves as being loosely analogous to light waves, then the different colors of noise refer to different parts of the sound spectrum. Pure white noise is a mix of all the frequencies humans can hear, so it can be a little agitating (think of the static on your TV). Pink and brown noise are at the lower end of the spectrum. They aren't as grating and have been found to help people sleep a little more deeply . So even though a lot of brands call their own products white-noise machines, just know you're likely listening to something much more pleasant.

Best for Classic Sleep Sounds

The Lectrofan Classic is in several WIRED staffers’ homes, divided between children and adults. At 4 inches across and 2 inches tall, it's small enough to fit on the most crowded nightstand. You can also often find it for cheaper than its $50 price. There are no bird sounds or fireplaces—we have many options for that—but you can choose between fans or a spectrum of colored noise. It has a 60-minute timer and cranks up to a whopping 85 decibels, or stays low enough to barely hear it at all.

★ Alternative: The Lectrofan Evo for $35 is another solid option from this brand. The Evo has a few more sound choices (like ocean noises) and looks nicer, but we prefer the buttons on the Classic. They're better for fiddling with in the dark.

If You Sleep Best to the Sound of a Fan

Yogasleep's Dohm (originally called the Sleep-Mate) was invented in 1962, and it's still one of the most reliable sound machines you can buy. At 4 inches tall and 5.5 inches wide, it's a little larger than the LectroFan, but it's much simpler. A rotating fan is set within the Dohm's acoustic housing, and it has just two settings (the lower one is under 55 decibels). If you've ever been to a therapist's office, you may have noticed these outside the doors. They conceal the conversation inside without being obtrusive.

If you normally sleep with a box fan running but don't want dust bunnies blown into your face all night, this is the pick for you. Don't be alarmed if you see Marpac on the packaging or buy page—it's the same company.

A Multipurpose Machine With a Large Library

The second-generation Hatch Rest combines a sound machine and night-light with two added features for children: time-to-rest and time-to-rise lights. These are called beacons, and they're helpful reminders for adults too. This version also includes a dimmable clock, and it's controllable via Wi-Fi instead of Bluetooth. In the app, you can customize colors, adjust the volume, and pick from the sound library. Tapping the top of the Hatch Rest cycles through sounds and turns it on and off. (There's a child-lock function to prevent kids from messing with the settings, and it still gives them control of the nightlight button on the back of the machine.)

You don't have to subscribe, but if you do, the $50 annual Hatch membership offers great bedtime stories, lullabies, and meditations I absolutely adore. It's just a shame none are included in the base price. Hatch has a few different models too. We've tested and like the Rest Plus for $90 , which adds Amazon Alexa support and includes an audio monitor. We don't recommend the Rest Mini for $40 though, as it stopped turning on after several months.

Aarian Marshall

Eric Ravenscraft

Parker Hall

Adrienne So

Made for Babies

Raptbaby's sound machine is cute and has four sound categories, each with two options. I particularly loved the classical music tracks, which put me right at ease. It's designed for babies, so there are also womb sounds that might comfort them. You can play sounds continuously or choose 30- 60- or 90-minute timers.

If you have a baby, any low-decibel sound machine will work (see the note at the beginning of this guide on safe volume), but Raptbaby says its machine goes a step further with neuroscientist-designed soundtracks that promote sleep and help develop the “ neuronal connections that are critical to language development in young children.” I couldn't verify this claim, but I liked listening to its tracks.

A Portable Machine

This machine is also marketed for babies—there's a shhhh sound that sounds comforting and a child lock on the back to disable the buttons. But anyone can use a portable sound machine! If you frequent hotels, occasionally like to drown out distractions in your office, or have a child who's fussy in the car, it's nice to pick it up and go where you need to go.

The D11 has 11 sounds including a fan, lullaby music, and even a busy restaurant-like sound with muffled chatter. It's small but can get quite loud, and the swirl design works as a night light. There are 30-, 60-, and 90-minute timers, or you can leave it running continuously. It charges via USB-C, and if you use a timer, the battery should last you for a few nights. I left it on for nearly 12 hours in my office and it was still going the next day.

★ Alternative: The Baby Brezza Sleep and Soother ($30) is super light, can run on batteries or be plugged in, and has 18 sleep sounds and three timer options (or it plays continuously). There’s also a night light with three brightness levels.

Another Cute Portable Machine

The ErgoPouch costs more than the Dreamegg above, but I think you'd be happy with either, whether you need portability or not. I particularly loved how pretty this one is; its neutral aesthetic reminds me of a pebble at a spa without going full beige . There are seven sound options ranging from colored noise to rain and shushing. A charge should last you a few nights, but I wish there was a timer option to conserve battery. The back has a light with three levels of brightness. I liked to carry this around my house pretending I was holding a candle in an old movie. It's just very cute.

This One Has a Sunrise Alarm

We already like most of Hatch’s lineup, including the original Restore . This Restore 2 gets a pretty redesign, with a full-linen look that makes its sunrise and sunset simulations more serene, and two new speakers for better sound. There’s a digital clock face too, and you can set it to automatically turn off in a dark room.

The Restore 2 has physical buttons to start and stop sleep and wake cycles, but you’ll need to use the app to customize everything. Like the Hatch Rest above, there are a few nice free options, but if you pay for the Hatch Sleep Membership, there’s a rotating library of more sounds, stories, and meditations. Check out our Best Sunrise Alarms guide for other similar options.

For Sleep Sounds and Meditations

Morphée's meditation machine includes a range of sleep sounds—I particularly like the cat purring and fireplace sounds—but I love the meditations that are designed to relax you into a deep sleep. You can unplug it and take it with you, too. It looks like a little music box!

There are eight themes—body scan, breathing, movement, visualizations, cardiac coherence, napping, relaxing music, and nature sounds—each theme has eight sessions all available in either eight or 20-minute lengths. The visualizations theme has different stories for the male and female voices. My only quibble is that I wish you could let the sleep sounds play continuously.

★ A Morphée for kids: The My Little Morphée ($100) is cute, compact, and designed for kids from 3 to about 10 years old. Senior reviews editor Adrienne So's 7-year-old loves the stories, which take kids on meditative journeys with an animal companion. The only problem is that she sometimes demands to hear the end of the stories while she's awake, which is a problem for bedtime but a testament to the quality. Stock tends to fluctuate on this one.

If You Already Have a Smart Speaker

Do you have a Google smart speaker —or any smart speaker for that matter? Congratulations, you already have a sound machine capable of noise and much more. A simple command like, “ Hey, Google, help me relax ” will trigger 12 hours of ambient noise (if you don't stop it). You can also ask for specific sounds like rain, a fireplace, country nights, or a babbling brook. Google speakers let you create a bedtime routine, as well ( learn more about routines ). These features work on any Google speaker.

Alexa Also Works

If you have an Amazon Alexa speaker , you can enable an Alexa skill called Ambient Noise to select sounds ranging from a whale to a dishwasher or washing machine. There are other Alexa sleep sounds too. Alexa may even suggest some if you ask for white noise or sleep sounds. You can also search for white-noise playlists on Spotify or other music services, like Prime Music.

Try an App and a Bluetooth Speaker

You might not need to buy anything at all if you have a Bluetooth speaker lying around. I used to blast Good Charlotte from a Walkman under my pillow to fall asleep as an angsty preteen. Eventually, I graduated to an app that lulled me to sleep via the sound of a clothes dryer tumbling. There are tons of noises to help you relax, but if you need some inspiration, we compiled our favorite apps and Spotify playlists here . A Bluetooth speaker will step it up a notch.

More Sound Machines We Like

Dreamegg D1 for $36 : This one plays a lot of the same sounds as the D11 portable machine, with a handful more fans and a spectrum of noises. The control panel is matte and soft to the touch, and you can set it to play continuously or for 30, 60, or 90 minutes. I tried the white version, but you can get a few other nice colors on the Dreamegg site . The rim also lights up.

Snooz Sound Machine for $100 : The Snooz machine has one sound: the comforting whir of a fan, thanks to the real fan that spins inside it. That’s the sound I turn to most so I appreciate that there’s nothing to futz with. It also has a nice fade-in and fade-out feature for timers, so it’s not jarring. The biggest problem is how expensive it is for one noise compared to other machines on this list.

Allway Aqua10 for $119 : I love that this looks like a cute Marshall amp and works as a decent-sounding Bluetooth speaker for sleep sounds and anything else you want to listen to the rest of the day. You need the Allway app to access the sounds, which include crackling fires, busy cafes, a spectrum of colored noises, and a wide selection of instrumentals. They’ll play for anywhere from five to 120 minutes. The Aqua10 also has a humidifier function, which looks extremely cool paired with lights that illuminate the vapor like a fire. But I found it to be fussy, and it seemed to stop even though the reservoir was full. While it seems to be easy to clean, I’m not sure you can really scrub the parts that need to be cleaned for a humidifier to function properly.

Avoid This One!

The Marpac Go is a portable, rechargeable sound machine that we liked for helping our kids sleep while traveling, but it was recalled in 2019 because the internal battery can leak, making it a burn hazard. It's been long enough that you probably won't be able to find it anymore, but just in case you see it second-hand, it's best to avoid it. The company makes another sound machine . Like most of Marpac's sleep products, it's now sold under the Yogasleep brand, which we recommend above.

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The 9 Best Sound Machines for Sleeping Through the Night, Tested by Gear Experts

Finally get the zzz 's you deserve with these high-tech sleep aids.

Our product picks are editor-tested, expert-approved. We may earn a commission through links on our site. Why Trust Us?

Amazon’s Choice Sound Machine

Homedics soundsleep white noise sound machine.

Best Basic Sound Machine

Riptunes sound machine with 28 soothing sounds.

Best Sound Machine for Travel

Dreamegg d11 white noise sound machine.

Easiest-to-use Sound Machine

Yogasleep whish white noise sound machine.

Best Smart Sound Machine

Hatch hatch restore sound machine and smart light.

Most Stylish Sound Machine

Snooz snooz white noise sound machine.

#1 Best-Selling Sound Machine

Adaptive sound technologies lectrofan premium white noise sound machine.

Most Unique Sound Machine

Morphée morphée sleep aid device / meditation box.

Best Sound Machine Alternative

Amazon echo dot (5th gen, 2022 release) with clock.

Before you reach for the melatonin or something even harder, you might want to consider a sound machine. These days, the best sound machines offer a wide range of settings for all kinds of sleepers. The most basic models act as “white noise” machines to drown out ambient noise (think snoring partners and passing subway trains) in your apartment or home. More advanced sound machines add a mix of soothing noises, like falling rain, whale calls, blowing fans, and other nature sounds. The very best models even include next-gen features like guided meditations, built-in Bluetooth, or built-in “smart” lighting to help you fall asleep and wake up more naturally

Thankfully, sound machines are simple devices. Most look like fancy alarm clocks with a few more dials and buttons and switches to access their various sounds and features. If you’re ready to upgrade your bedroom but can’t decide on the right sound machine for you, we’re here to help. These are the best sound machines to help you sleep soundly through the night in 2023

Best Tech Gadgets for Men | Best Tech Gifts | Best Sleep Gadgets | Best Smart Home Devices | Best Bluetooth Speakers

Homedics has long been a favorite brand of ours for its affordable, niche home products, including everything from foot massagers to portable humidifiers . The key word being affordable . The SoundSleep White Noise Sound Machine is no exception, with a starting price under $20. It’s a basic, streamlined design without any bells and whistles. In fact, this sound machine offers only the essentials, including a volume knob, a timer, and just six built-in sounds (White Noise, Thunder, Ocean, Rain, Summer Night, and Brook). It’s incredibly lightweight and compact, making this a decent solution for travel, too. Plus, it runs on wall (AC) or battery power.

There’s not much to this sound machine, and it’s one of the most basic in our roundup. If you’re looking for something simple and budget-friendly that gets the job done without a flashy design, this is your man. Beyond the overly basic (bordering on cheap) aesthetic and limited sound library, we’re hard-pressed to find much to dislike about this model. And, with more than 40,000 glowing, five-star reviews, it’s clear many Amazon buyers agree.

What do buyers say? Out of more than 56,000 Amazon reviews, 89% recommend the Homedics SoundSleep White Noise Sound Machine with at least a 4-star rating.

Riptunes Sound Machine is a half-step above the Homedics SoundSleep. With a clean, minimalist aesthetic, it’s designed to blend seamlessly into almost any décor. With dedicated buttons for every feature and sound, it’s also extremely easy to use. There’s a total of 28 total sound options, including 12 fan sounds, 12 white noise sounds, three nature sounds, and a dedicated “lullabuy” option, making this great for children’s and baby’s rooms. This is another compact, lightweight option, although it does only run on wall power without a built-in battery.

This is a perfect, middle-of-the-road sound machine for anyone looking to upgrade from the most basic models, but who isn’t prepared to splash out on a unit that’s more than $80. With a good list of sound options, including several dedicated to white noise, a tasteful design, and a portable form factor, we think it’s also great for kids’ rooms or guest rooms. At less than $40, this is a solid sound machine.

Sometimes, the hardest place to find a good night’s sleep is on the road. If you’re a light sleeper who can’t sleep, even on vacation, or a road warrior who needs a little snooze assistance while traveling for business, having an ultra-portable sound machine can be a game-changer. Dreamegg’s D11 White Noise Sound Machine offers all the standard features of a typical nightstand-style model. As the name implies, it offers 11 sounds, including several white noises (like a vacuum cleaner, shushing, and a generic “white noise”) and natural sounds like the ocean, a babbling brook, and crickets. This model boasts a “lullaby” sound, too, making it another solid option for children’s rooms. But, most importantly for travelers, it’s ultra-compact and lightweight at just 0.35 pounds.

This is easily one of the most versatile sound machines in our roundup. The night light and built-in child lock features make it a great choice for putting in kids’ rooms, while the portable design and USB-C rechargeability mean that it’s perfect for travelers, too. Plus, with more than 5,000 five-star Amazon reviews, and a starting price under $30, it’s also a great value.

What do buyers say? “I work with newborns for a living and this is the best white noise machine I have ever used. The sounds are wonderful and soothing and the volume range is great. The night light is really helpful too,” said one Amazon reviewer.

Read more: Best Travel Gadgets

The Whish White Noise Sound Machine from Yogasleep (formerly Marpac) offers dead-simple usability. The design resembles a kitchen egg timer with a power button on the front and a ring of dedicated buttons for each sound surrounding the top speaker. Just turn it on, select a sound, and snooze off. The library of 16 sounds includes basic white noises, nature sounds, meditation-friendly background noise, and a proprietary “Marpac sound.” We also like the built-in rechargeable battery that can be plugged in continuously via Micro-USB or tossed in a travel bag for on-the-go sleep assistance. Plus, the sleek, ABS plastic shell is durable and easy to clean.

This sound machine offers all of the same features as our more basic picks, including a compact size, a decent sound library, and a rechargeable battery. But the ultra-clean design sets it apart for anyone looking for the easiest-to-use sound machine of 2023. The only downside? The price. At more than $80, it’s one of the most expensive non-smart sound machines we’ve seen this year.

What do buyers say? “I bought one of these several months ago and use it every night. I absolutely love it!” said one Macys.com reviewer.

Of course, even the lowly sound machine has gone high-tech these days. Hatch’s aptly named Restore Sound Machine is like a sound machine on steroids, offering the same features as a traditional sound machine but taking it all to the next level with several sleep-friendly smart features. Using the built-in ambient light, it’s designed to take you through your entire sleep cycle, from bedtime to wake up the next morning. You can use it to unwind with a “sunset,” fall asleep to a deep library of sounds, stay asleep with a mix of white noises, then wake up with a natural-ish sunrise. Hatch offers a rich library of soundscapes, guided meditations, and sleep stories, plus the optional Hatch Sleep membership unlocks unlimited access to even more sound options. It’s easily the best smart sound machine on the market, and the design is guaranteed to elevate any bedroom decor as well.

The Hatch Restore has every feature any sound machine buyer could want, including all the essentials, plus smartphone connectivity, allowing you to customize almost every option for your perfect night’s sleep. The only con here is the price. At $130, it’s among the most expensive sound machines we’ve seen this year. But if consistently good sleep is important to you, and you don’t mind splurging on the best tech to help get you there, this is hands-down the best choice.

What do buyers say? “I’ve been seeing it everywhere and didn’t want to spend the money, but it is WELL worth it,” said one Amazon reviewer.

If you value the look of everything that goes into your bedroom just as much as how well it helps you sleep, the Snooz White Noise Sound Machine might be for you. The sleek, Apple-worthy aesthetic blends seamlessly into any décor with a look that’s more like a compact Bluetooth speaker than a traditional sound machine. Inside, you won’t find a tiny, alarm-clock-style speaker. Instead, it’s filled with a working, built-in fan to provide real white noise, rather than a looped, recorded track. It features 10 levels of customization, too, so you can dial in your preferred level of ambient whoosh . An optional companion app unlocks additional features, like a timer, a nightlight, and a remote control.

We love the beautiful design and simplicity of this unique sound machine. It’s unlike anything else in our test. But its greatest strength (a built-in fan) is also its weakness. For users who want a sort-of-customizable white noise generator, this is a great combination of functionality and style. The elephant in the room, however, is that you’re paying almost $150 for a stylish, nightstand-friendly fan. But if you’re looking for more of a white noise machine (rather than a sound machine with a library of sounds) and don’t mind paying a little extra for the best-designed model, the Snooz is probably for you.

What do buyers say? “We use this in our daughters nursery. It's works amazing!” said one Walmart.com reviewer.

If you’re anything like us, you appreciate simplicity. Adaptive Sound Technologies (AST) keeps it dead simple with the LectroFan—a compact, hexagonal sound machine with a white, retro-modern design that feels like a cool throwback to 80s technology. All of the features (power and volume) and the sound library (including fan sounds and white noises) are easily accessible through one of three rocker-style buttons on the front. There’s no quirky nature sound library here, just 20 total fan and white noises (10 fan sounds and 10 white, pink, and brown noises)—all non-looping, so there’s no jarring pause along the way.

If you just can’t sleep without some sort of white noise in your bedroom, but dislike the often quirky, tinny nature sounds of traditional sound machines, this might be the best option for you. We love the easy-to-use design, all accessible through dedicated buttons without having to fiddle with a Bluetooth connection and a finicky companion app. The design is “just right” and, at less than $50, so is the price. Plus, this model is an Amazon #1 Best Seller in “Sound Therapy Products” with more than 23,000 five-star Amazon reviews. If you decide it’s not for you, AST even offers a “1,000-day satisfaction guarantee.”

What do buyers say? Out of more than 28,000 Amazon reviews, 91% recommend the Adaptive Sound Technologies LectroFan Premium White Noise Sound Machine with at least a 4-star rating.

One look at the Morphee Sleep Aid, and this clearly isn’t your typical sound machine. The design looks more like an old-school music box, in fact. It’s quirky, unique, and guaranteed to add a dash of whimsy to your bedroom’s setup. The sound library is equally one-of-a-kind, with more than 200 audio sessions divided into one of eight themes. These include “body scan, breathing, movement, visualization, heart coherence, nap, relaxing music, and sounds of nature”—all of which are customizable using a male or female voice in 8- or 20-minute sessions. Unlike looped white noise and nature sounds, each of Morphee’s sessions is scientifically designed to help you sleep better.

The Morphee isn’t your typical sound machine. The physical design and user interface are both unique, as are the sounds found in each themed library. This is the sort of device that you probably won’t know if it works for you until you try it at home. At around $100, it’s pricier than many of our more budget-friendly picks. But if you’ve tried traditional sound machines and white noise generators and were left feeling wanting, this is a great, out-of-the-box alternative that’s worth trying. (Bonus: There’s even a My Little Morphée Meditation Box designed specifically for children’s rooms.)

What do buyers say? “If you have insomnia, get this! Did some research on this device and decided to give it a try. Better than a white noise machine, this thing was scientifically studied and created to help you get to sleep as well as improve your deep sleep,” said one Amazon reviewer.

Nowadays, most of the tech in our house does more than it was intended to do. That means you may not want or need to buy a dedicated sound machine. Many smart speakers can typically do everything a traditional sound machine can. The latest generation of Amazon’s Echo Dot (5th Gen), for example, can be enabled with an Alexa skill called Ambient Noise. It features hundreds of stories, sounds, and meditations, and you can even combine two sounds to play at once. Just say something like, “Alexa, ask Ambient Noise to play thunderstorms.” Of course, having the latest Echo Dot also provides access to the long list of other features baked into Amazon’s favorite smart speaker (and the entire Alexa ecosystem), too.

If you’re planning to buy a sound machine anyway, the Echo Dot is a great option that offers a deep sound library and so much more. It’s one of our favorite smart speakers, especially with a price tag just under $60. Plus, the 5th-generation model features more than 7,000 ratings, including over 6,600 five-star reviews.

What do buyers say? Out of more than 7,800 Amazon reviews, 95% recommend the Amazon Echo Dot Smart Speaker (5th Gen) with at least a 4-star rating.

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Like we said, sound machines aren’t complicated. They’re like fancy alarm clocks with a few extra bells and whistles. But if you’re not sure what to look for, here are a few things to consider:

Sound library quality A good sound library is arguably the most important feature of any sound machine. It’s what you’re buying the device for, after all. The “right” sound library is the one that helps fall asleep and stay asleep, so it’s a matter of personal preference. Consider the type of sound that you prefer—nature sounds, white noise, ambient fan sounds, guided meditation, sleep stories, and more are all options with many of today’s best sound machines. Size and portability How you plan to use your sound machine will determine how small you’ll need it to be. Every sound machine we tested and researched is designed to sit on a nightstand. Some are even compact and lightweight enough to toss in a travel bag and take on the road, too. If you do plan to take yours on the go, you may want to consider a battery-powered option, which might allow you to leave the power cord at home or use your phone’s standard USB cord for charging along the way. Power supply That leads us to the fact that some sound machines rely on plug-in power supplies, some have built-in rechargeable batteries, and some models use both. If possible, opt for a sound machine with a rechargeable battery (versus relying on AA batteries) since it’ll save you money and be more eco-friendly in the long run. Price Most sound machines are very affordable. Budget models are often priced below $50, while midrange options are under $100. The very best sound machines (like those from Hatch), however, can run north of $120, although these typically offer a long list of “smart” features over traditional sound machines. Extra Features In addition to simply playing white noise or nature sounds from a library, some sound machines also boast built-in timers, remote controls, or other “smart” features.

How We Selected the Best Sound Machines of 2023

Our sleep-loving staff writers and in-house experts tested dozens of top-selling sound machines over the last year. We carefully compared every feature, spec, and option, including easy-of-use, overall design, power options, sound library quality, price, and more. We also considered several well-reviewed models with at least 200 positive ratings on the etailer sites we trust most. The final list above represents our honest pick of the nine best sound machines to help you sleep through the night in 2023.

How-To Geek

Your gpu has a fan curve: what is it and should you adjust it.

Strike a balance between noise and cooling performance.

Quick Links

What is a fan curve, your stock gpu fan curve probably sucks, how to adjust your gpu fan curve for better performance, key takeaways.

• Manufacturers typically set fan curves that favor quiet operation over performance out of the box.
• Utilizing a custom GPU fan curve can improve cooling efficiency.
• You can create a custom fan curve in a few clicks by using software like Afterburner.

If you experience random performance dips on your PC, it could be an overheating issue. We like to blame our CPUs when that happens, but did you know that your GPU can also slow down because it's getting too hot?

Put simply, a fan curve is a graphic representation of how a computer fan operates. It's shown as a graph where the horizontal X axis indicates GPU temperature and the vertical Y axis shows fan speed. The fan speed increases as the GPU gets hotter and vice versa. Here's an example of what a GPU fan curve looks like:

On the left, you have the fan speed shown as a percentage, and on the bottom is the temperature in Celsius. The curvy line is what we refer to as the fan curve , and it dictates the behavior of the fan. In this particular example, the fan speed reaches 30% when the GPU is at 20°C, 40% at 45°C, 48% at 57°C, and so on. Fans get progressively faster as the GPU gets hotter, so that they can keep it sufficiently cooled.

You're now probably wondering why you'd want to change your GPU fan curve. The issue is that GPU manufacturers create fan curves that favor quieter operations at all times, even when your GPU is hitting its maximum temperature . Your GPU might reach and sustain relatively high temperatures (80°C and above), and the fans still won't kick into overdrive.

That's because graphics card fans can get noticeably loud at 100% fan speed, and those small fans can get a lot of work done even when they run at 20–30%. Plus, your graphics card has another trick up its sleeve that can protect it from overheating—it can slow down its clock speed, and if the load is still too high, it can thermal throttle to get the temperature down even further.

While you could stick with the stock fan curve that the manufacturer intended without any issues, you can still benefit from a more aggressive fan curve. A custom fan curve increases the wear on your GPU fans, but it also allows your GPU to run cooler, which is still better for overall longevity. A set of GPU fans only costs around $15–$40 to replace, whereas a whole new GPU can set you back hundreds of dollars.

You probably won't kill your GPU fan with a custom fan curve anyway. In two decades of computer use, I've only had one GPU fan die on me, and it was an ancient ATI Radeon card that was long overdue for an upgrade. Dust and debris that get stuck inside your fans will kill it sooner than blasting the fans at maximum speed .

Still, the real reason why you want to "upgrade" from your stock GPU fan curve is performance. A well-cooled graphics card can sustain its maximum boost clock indefinitely, which directly translates into more FPS in your games and faster rendering times.

There are many programs that let you create a custom GPU fan curve. AMD has decent fan tuning in AMD Adrenalin , which I use personally, but you can also use MSI Afterburner on any GPU brand and model.

After downloading and installing Afterburner, open the program and click the gear icon to open settings. Go to the "Fan" tab and select "Enable user defined software automatic fan control." A fan speed curve will show up; you can select the default Afterburner fan curve—which is different from your stock GPU fan curve—by selecting "Default" under "Predefined fan speed curve."

This is already a relatively good fan curve that'll likely provide a slight cooling and performance uplift over the stock one. If you want to optimize your GPU fan to get more out of it, switch to "Custom" under "Predefined fan speed curve."

This allows you to manipulate the fan curve by dragging the boxes (nodes) along the curve up, down, left, and right. You can add nodes by clicking anywhere on the curve and delete them by hitting "Del" (Delete) on your keyboard.

The exact fan curve you use depends on your personal preference. Personally, I go for 0% speed at temperatures below 40°C, 100% speed at 85°C, and then adjust the rest of the fan curve in accordance with that. This allows me to keep my GPU dead quiet when I work while also keeping it very cool in games. However, my GPU is a mid-range RX 6600 XT with an overkill cooler, so it never goes above 65°C, no matter how hard I push it. Your mileage may vary.

Test and Tweak

The best way to find a balance between fan noise and cooling performance for your GPU is to test it. There's no one-size-fits-all solution here, as GPUs can have vastly different temperature ranges and cooling solutions.

You can start with a fan curve similar to the default one in MSI Afterburner. Next, launch a game or GPU benchmark tool like 3DMark , and monitor your GPU temperature using your GPU overlay menu of choice or Windows Task Manager.

If your GPU isn't going over ~80°C with close to 100% utilization, you're off to a great start, but your goal is to keep fans spinning as slowly as possible while also keeping the GPU cool. For starters, cross-check your maximum GPU temperature at full load with the fan speed percentage on your fan curve.

For instance, if your GPU isn't going above 70°C while the fan is running at 50% speed, treat that as your effective fan curve peak. You should slow down the fan speed before the effective peak to preserve your fan bearings, and you can also keep the higher fan speeds at temperatures above the peak as a precaution. Here's a visual representation of my example here:

While making your awesome new GPU fan curve, don't forget that you'll notice changes in fan speed more than you'll notice a straight-up loud fan. If your annoying fan keeps ramping up and down, play around with the fan speed and temperature where it occurs.

The temperatures I've mentioned here are rules of thumb that should apply to a broad range of cards, but you should look up the maximum safe temperatures for your own GPU to really optimize things. Different GPUs have different temperature thresholds, and future GPUs will also differ over time as technology advances.

A custom GPU fan curve is an excellent way of boosting the cooling efficiency of not just your GPU but your entire system, as you'll create slightly more negative air pressure in your PC case. Although some graphics cards won't see much benefit from a custom fan curve, models that tend to run hot can see a healthy improvement. Better cooling indirectly allows for better performance by allowing your GPU to sustain its maximum boost clock, so it's definitely worth a shot.

The 8 best noise-cancelling headphones for flying in 2024

F lying was never the most stress-free way to travel, but thanks to never-ending airline delays, unruly passengers, and the incredible shrinking airline seat, it's become a nightmare. If you've decided it's finally time to invest in a quality pair of noise-cancelling headphones for flying, we've got you covered.

The good news is that plenty of headphones, from over-ear headphones to wireless earbuds , offer active noise cancellation. And in 2024, it's not too hard to find ANC headphones cost under $100.

Even so, if you want to find the best noise-cancelling headphones for airplanes, you should be prepared to pay closer $200 to $500 (exempting our budget pick from Anker Soundcore). Premium headphones offer improved active noise cancellation and transparency modes that allow you to hear those all-important gate announcements.

Let's not forget that ANC on its own won't save the day — otherwise, we'd just direct you to our review of the best noise-cancelling headphones . For long flights, comfort is also key. It won't matter if your headphones block sound if you only want to wear them for two out of five hours of your flight. A few extra features — like balanced sound and spatial audio — can't hurt either.

With all that in mind, we've rounded up the best headphones for flying based on our extensive research and hands-on testing.

Because shopping for headphones shouldn't be as stressful as heading to the airport, we've answered every question you need to know before purchasing. Read on for essential info as well as the very best noise-cancelling headphones for flying in 2024.

Does paying more really get me more noise cancellation?

Generally, yes. Many cheap headphones claim to offer "noise-cancelling" features, but a $50 pair of over-ear headphones will never compare to Sony noise-cancelling headphones. Typically, the more you pay and the better known and regarded the brand is, the better the noise cancellation. Brands like Bose and Sony offer multiple levels of noise cancellation so you can choose to be completely blocked off from the world or opt to allow some environmental noises to come in while flying. 

Paying more can also get you some nice features to supplement your ANC, like voice assistant support, expansive battery life, advanced codec support for better-sounding music, or better call quality. If you're a frequent flyer, the cost is almost certainly worth it.

What are the best noise-cancelling headphones for flying?

Noise-cancelling headphones are at their most useful on airplanes. While flying, it's difficult to find a moment's peace when so much is going on around you. Frequent flyers may prefer to rest or work, and the best way to do this is by using the best noise-cancellation methods to block out the chaos. 

With that in mind, some headphones' ANC works best on blocking out people talking more than ambient engine sounds, and vice versa, and people will have different preference levels for how much ANC they actually like. In addition, for long-haul flights, you may also be interested in the best noise-cancelling headphones for sleeping

With all that in mind, we've included the best ANC headphones for every traveler. So, read on to find the best noise-cancelling headphones for airplanes in 2024 — all based on Mashable's in-depth research and hands-on headphones reviews.

Best overall: Bose QuietComfort Ultra

Bose quietcomfort ultra headphones, who it's for:.

If you're looking for over-ear headphones that sound great and can give you all day wear, making the hefty investment in the Bose QuietComfort Ultras may well be worth it. While we tested these headphones over a period of a couple weeks, we were especially impressed when we wore for the entirety of a five hour flight (and about an hour before getting on the plane), while also wearing glasses — never once did we feel the need to take them off.

Why we picked this:

Shopping Reporter Bethany Allard here. Personally, I've owned and used Bose QuietComfort 35 IIs for several years, and tested the QC 45s for a couple months before testing these. Between the former two, I can't say I noticed a huge difference in quality — both are excellent. But, with the Ultra's, I feel like Bose really stepped up the QuietComfort line. They feel durable, but just as comfortable. The sound profile feels richer, and the immersion mode allows for a spatial audio experience that amps up the experience.

And then, of course, there's the ANC. I work from home and live about 50 feet across the street from a massive construction project, so some form of ANC is a necessity to me. The Ultras block out the sound better than the other two QuietComfort models. As mentioned above, I took them on a plane ride, and was impressed at how comfortable they stayed and how well they blocked out the sound of the airplane and fellow passengers. As for portability, the hinge on the earcups allows them to fold flat and in, so they fold up smaller than other headphones like the Sony WH-1000XM5s can.

With all that said, they're not perfect. For starters, the battery life could be better. The stand-by mode doesn't work the most consistently either, and similar to past QC headphones I've tried, connecting to multiple devices can occasionally take a few tries upon power up. These issues are annoying, but manageable enough to troubleshoot, and worth dealing with for the comfort and noise-cancelling power these headphones offer.

One Ziff Davis staffer mentioned that after about a month of usage, the power button on his headphones stopped working. We haven't been able to find any more reports of this online, but it's definitely concerning. It's good to know that Bose offers a one-year product warranty .

Battery life: 24 hours | Bluetooth range: 30 feet | App-connected: Yes

Best earbuds for travel: Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds

If you're not an over-ear headphone stan, the Bose QuiteComfort Ultra earbuds offer similarly impressive noise cancellation and comfort as our top pick, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones . If you like to lean against the window to nap during flights or just need a lower-profile set of headphones so you can travel a bit lighter, the QC Ultra buds are the way to go. They're also a cool $130 less than our top pick, making them easier on the wallet.

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds were just released in October 2023, and they've already snagged a Mashable Choice award for their stellar noise cancellation, comfortable fit, and impressive Immersive Audio tech. Per usual for the brand, Bose's ANC drowns out a ton of background noise, making these buds a perfect fit for flights. In his review of the QC Ultra buds , Mashable contributor Timothy Beck Werth mentioned that Bose's noise cancellation is so good, that he often wears these buds even when he's not playing music.

"When I want to take a nap on a plane or focus on my work, I pop in these earbuds and let the noise-cancelling cocoon wash over me," Werth says. "Do they offer 100 percent sound dilution? No, but all but the loudest and closest sounds should disappear. On airplanes, they significantly reduced noise, making it much easier to take a nap. I have to warn my partner when I'm putting on these earbuds, otherwise she'll think I'm giving her the silent treatment."

In terms of complaints, we noticed that the design of the case makes it a bit difficult to remove the buds. We also experienced some finicky Bluetooth connection during long-term testing, but these are minor qualms — the pros of the QC Ultra buds absolutely outweigh the cons.

Battery life: Six hours (Up to 24 with charging case) | Bluetooth range: 30 feet | App connected: Yes

Best for comfort: Bose QuietComfort 45

The Bose QuietComfort line has earned its spot as one of the most popular headphones for travelers thanks to incredible comfort, and the QuietComfort 45s are no exception.

During our testing, we wore the QC 45s for eight-plus hours, some days with glasses, and never once did we experience unpleasant squeezing or feel the weight of these headphones. Mashable Lead Shopping Reporter Haley Henschel said that prior to having the Bose QC 45s, most name-brand models made her head ache after just minutes of wear, but she can wear the Bose headphones all day without an issue. For comfort-first folks, these are your headphones. They are being phased out for newer models (see our pick right above this one), but while they're still around, you can typically find them on sale.

Though you can't fine-tune the ANC as you can with the Bose 700s, the active noise cancellation on these headphones still does a more than adequate job for your flight, managing to block out higher-frequency sounds that most ANC-enabled headphones typically struggle with. A single press of the button on the left ear cup allows you to easily switch between quiet and aware modes when the flight attendant comes around to take your drink order.

Up to 24 hours of battery life is not stellar but not bad either. For one, it's the same battery life as the more expensive QC Ultras, and you can always plug them in for 15 minutes to get back three hours of charge for when you're on the move or taking a short flight. As for the Bluetooth connection, it can be a bit spotty when switching among devices (especially if two are connected at the same time), but the Bose app helps smooth out the process — plus, we're willing to bet you won't be switching between too many devices on a flight.

Budget pick: Anker Soundcore Life Q20

Anker soundcore life q20 headphones.

While having active noise cancellation at the ready while traveling might sound great, spending hundreds of dollars for it might sound decidedly less so. If you're not looking for the most top-quality ANC, sound, or build out there, the Anker Soundcore Life Q20s are one of the best entry-level picks that don't break the bank.

Though basically a fifth of the price of our top picks for over-ear headphones with ANC, the Life Q20s wear comfortably and their sound comes through strong and well-balanced. Their design isn't anything to brag about, but the ear cups do fold in and up, so storing them isn't a huge pain. Just make sure to grab your own case if you don't want them floating freely in your bag. Thankfully they're lightweight, but they do suffer from feeling cheaper as a result.

The middling ANC means that it can block out some background noise, but especially high or low-frequency sounds are likely to break through. The battery life, however, is anything but middling, offering 40 hours of playtime, more than enough for long flights (and inevitable delays at the gate). Overall, these headphones epitomize the word decent — but that's not a knock against them at all.

Battery life: 40 hours | Bluetooth range: 33 feet | App-connected: Yes

Best sound quality: Sony WH-1000XM5

Sony wh-1000xm5 headphones.

Read Mashable's full review of the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones.

Sony's latest and greatest over-ear noise-cancelling headphones are the WH-1000XM5 . Though they're not an essential upgrade for those who already own the ultra-popular WH-1000XM4s, the improved noise cancellation and fuller sound make these the stronger pick for airplane travel in 2024.

While the ANC is solid, it's not a standout among other high-end noise-cancelling headphones. However, they still pack impressive noise cancellation and stellar audio quality for music. Considering noise cancellation is most effective in tandem with music, these headphones should appeal to music lovers and audiophiles. In her review of the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones , Mashable's Deputy Reviews Editor Miller Kern said the XM5s were "probably the best-sounding headphones I’ve ever tried," making them a great pick for folks who take pride in their Spotify playlists.

Besides sounding amazing, they offer exceptional travel functionality with the "quick attention" mode, activated simply by covering your right ear cup, allowing you to hear gate change announcements and flight attendants without completely stopping your music. Voice assistant support, crisp call quality, and a great battery life of up to 30 hours complete the package.

Though they look great, the biggest drawback is that these headphones don't fold up, and the carrying case is quite tall, though slim. Still, if sound quality is more important than portability, they're not that much bulkier than other headphones on this list (and they are more travel-friendly than the AirPods Max).

Battery life: 30 hours | Bluetooth range: 33 feet | App-connected: Yes

Best for Apple loyalists: Apple AirPods Max

Apple airpods max.

Read Mashable's full review of the Apple AirPods Max.

These headphones are expensive as all hell, but for those deep in the Apple ecosystem who want a pair of over-the-ear headphones, they could very well be worth the price. Plus, the noise cancelling is pretty great. You can't find these headphones on sale these days ( there is rumor that they might get an upgrade this year) , so anyone who's not already a diehard Apple fan will probably want to skip these.

The AirPods Max aren't just a pretty pair of headphones. With the help of eight microphones, these headphones provide excellent active noise cancellation. Switching into transparency mode happens with the push of a button, so there's no messing with finicky touch controls to hear what's going on around you. In addition to ANC, they have fantastic sound quality, and support for spatial audio will make cinephiles happy.

Their battery life, however, is a bit lacking compared to similarly priced headphones, thanks to the fact that they have no power button. (They're also missing a headphone jack, for those who like the option of wired listening). They will go into a low-power mode, but you can never completely turn them off. However, this does allow for easy switching in between devices, and for the "Find My" feature to always work. Plus, 20 hours of battery isn't bad, as that should last for even the most long-haul flights. In a pinch, five minutes of a charge can get you an hour and a half of battery life.

The carrying case is unfortunately, as former Mashable Tech Reporter Brenda Stoylar wrote in her review , "possibly the dumbest thing Apple has ever designed," so these headphones are probably best for people who don't mind wearing them around their neck for the entirety of their trip.

Battery life: 20 hours | Bluetooth range: Up to 300 feet | App-connected: Yes

Best for adjustable ANC: Bose 700

Read Mashable's full review of the Bose Noise Canceling 700 headphones.

The Bose 700s are truly top-of-the-line headphones for active noise cancellation, which makes them one of the best noice-cancelling headphones for flying in 2024. Frequent flyers don't want to be reminded that they're surrounded by a bunch of stressed-out strangers, and these premium over-ear headphones will get the job done.

They offer 10 levels of ANC so you can finely tune your experience, blocking out as much or as little as you want. You can create up to three different presets between 0 and 10, so you won't have to filter through all ten options every time you want to change the settings. This level of customization is not common among headphones, really setting the Bose 700s apart from its competitors. Alongside that, they sound great, with bass strong and mids suitably crisp, delivering the audio quality you'd expect from Bose.

In his review, Mashable's Alex Perry noted how comfortable the rubber padding on the headband and the foam ear cups were, even when worn for long periods. He also said these headphones are great at blocking out background sounds while on calls, which makes them especially ideal for frequent travelers who often find themselves on the phone while waiting in noisy airport terminals. To top it all off, they fold flat and come with a zip-up case for safe transport. A downside of these headphones is the battery life, which like the AirPod Max, maxes out at 20 hours. However, the biggest downside is that like the QC 45s, these headphones are also being phased out of Bose's line, so they can be harder to find and aren't likely to be restocked.

Battery life: 20 hours | Bluetooth range: Up to 33 feet | App-connected: Yes

Best earbuds for Apple users: Apple AirPods Pro

Apple airpods pro.

Read Mashable's full review of the Apple AirPod Pros.

If you prefer something more lowkey than a bulky pair of over-the-ear wireless headphones, opt for a pair of earbuds for travel instead. Though this usually means noise cancelling takes a big hit, that's not the case with the second-gen Apple AirPods Pro . Mashable Tech Reporter Stan Schroeder deemed these, "the first pair of earbuds I'd actually consider taking on an airplane," due to the quality of their ANC.

The ANC ante has been upped with the latest Pros, which offer even more sound-blocking power than the already great first-generation model. The design remains essentially the same, so you can easily stow the charging case in your bag or pocket. Plus, with last year's upgrade, the USB-C charging port likely means you have to lug around one less cable. Adaptive transparency mode allows you to hear outside noise once more with a press of the stem, while still dampening unwanted noise. To add to the aural experience, these buds do have spatial audio, though that feature is infamous for working great with some songs and not working at all with others.

Plus, the easy pairing AirPods are known for being even more efficient thanks to the upgraded H2 chip found in these earbuds. The especially great thing about AirPods is that though they're expensive, they do go on sale regularly throughout the year.

Battery life: 6 hours (up to 30 hours with charging case) | Bluetooth range: Up to 60 feet | App-connected: Yes

How we tested for the best noise-cancelling headphones for flying

Six out of seven of these headphones have been hands-on tested by Mashable staff, including past and current tech reporters, senior tech editors, and our deputy reviews editor.

The remaining pair, the Anker Soundcore Life Q20 , were selected after extensive research into specs and customer reviews. In addition to premium headphones from Sony, Bose, and Apple, we also wanted to include some of the best budget noise-cancelling headphones for airplanes. We selected these headphones based on our research and the reliability of Anker. We'll be hands-on testing this model for a future update.

We added the Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones to our list of recommendations in Nov. 2023, and as of Feb. 2024, tested the Bose QuietComfort Ultra earbuds and the JBL Tour One M2 headphones. The Bose QuietComfort Ultra earbuds will be added to this roundup in a future update. At this time, the JBL headphones didn't make the cut. We liked their long battery life, comfort, and surprisingly functional multipoint pairing, but we didn't feel like their $300 price tag matched up to the quality of the active noise cancellation. It wasn't bad, but it didn't wow us, and if you're willing to spend that much, we'd recommend going with Bose instead.

All of these headphones were chosen with the following criteria in mind:

• Comfort: As we mentioned above, the quiet of active noise cancellation becomes much less enjoyable if the headphones delivering it squeeze your head for the entirety of your flight. Any headphones that weren't favored for long-term wear didn't make our list.
• Battery life: If your headphones' battery is going to die 30 minutes into your flight, they're not going to cut it for even the shortest of trips. Our picks were typically in a higher price range that have better battery life and quick charge options for the times when you forget to juice up your headphones the night before you leave.
• Active noise cancellation quality: There are lower cost options for ANC, but not all active noise cancellation is delivered the same. That's why we focused on picks that either offered multiple levels of ANC, or delivered a strong level of ANC on its own, that didn't require music to make a noticeable difference.
• Portability: Over-the-ear headphones are going to deliver the best noise cancellation possible, but they are bulky. To keep these picks travel-friendly, we looked for headphones that fold up or that come with sleek carrying cases.
• Durability: Taking your headphones with you through TSA lines just opens them up to more wear and tear, so we went for higher-cost picks that are likely to survive the journey. Plus, we made sure to choose headphones that will last you for years, so the upfront investment is worth it.

This article may contain affiliate links that Microsoft and/or the publisher may receive a commission from if you buy a product or service through those links.

Watch CBS News

Solar eclipse maps show 2024 totality path, peak times and how much of the eclipse you can see across the U.S.

By Aliza Chasan

Updated on: April 7, 2024 / 11:55 AM EDT / CBS News

A total solar eclipse crosses North America on April 8, 2024, with parts of 15 U.S. states within the path of totality. Maps show where and when astronomy fans can see the big event . 

The total eclipse will first appear along Mexico's Pacific Coast at around 11:07 a.m. PDT, then travel across a swath of the U.S., from Texas to Maine, and into Canada.

About 31.6 million people live in the path of totality , the area where the moon will fully block out the sun, according to NASA. The path will range between 108 and 122 miles wide. An additional 150 million people live within 200 miles of the path of totality.

Solar eclipse path of totality map for 2024

The total solar eclipse will start over the Pacific Ocean, and the first location in continental North America that will experience totality is Mexico's Pacific Coast, around 11:07 a.m. PDT on April 8, according to NASA. From there, the path will continue into Texas, crossing more than a dozen states before the eclipse enters Canada in southern Ontario. The eclipse will exit continental North America around 5:16 p.m. NDT from Newfoundland, Canada.

The path of totality includes the following states:

• Pennsylvania
• New Hampshire

Small parts of Tennessee and Michigan will also experience the total solar eclipse.

Several major cities across the U.S. are included in the eclipse's path of totality, while many others will see a partial eclipse. Here are some of the best major cities for eclipse viewing — if the weather cooperates :

• San Antonio, Texas (partially under the path)
• Austin, Texas
• Waco, Texas
• Dallas, Texas
• Little Rock, Arkansas
• Indianapolis, Indiana
• Dayton, Ohio
• Cleveland, Ohio
• Buffalo, New York
• Rochester, New York
• Syracuse, New York
• Burlington, Vermont

Map of when the solar eclipse will reach totality across the path

The eclipse will begin in the U.S. on the afternoon of April 8. It will first be visible as a partial eclipse beginning at 12:06 p.m. CDT near Eagle Pass, Texas, before progressing to totality by about 1:27 p.m. CDT and progressing along its path to the northeast over the next few hours.

NASA shared times for several cities in the path of totality across the U.S. You can also  check your ZIP code on NASA's map  to see when the eclipse will reach you if you're on, or near, the path of totality. 

How much of the eclipse will you see if you live outside of the totality path?

While the April 8 eclipse will cover a wide swath of the U.S., outside the path of totality observers may spot a partial eclipse, where the moon covers some, but not all, of the sun, according to NASA. The closer you are to the path of totality, the larger the portion of the sun that will be hidden.

NASA allows viewers to input a ZIP code and see how much of the sun will be covered in their location.

Could there be cloud cover be during the solar eclipse?

Some areas along the path of totality have a higher likelihood of cloud cover that could interfere with viewing the eclipse. Here is a map showing the historical trends in cloud cover this time of year. 

You can check the latest forecast for your location with our partners at The Weather Channel .

Where will the solar eclipse reach totality for the longest?

Eclipse viewers near Torreón, Mexico, will get to experience totality for the longest. Totality there will last 4 minutes, 28 seconds, according to NASA. 

Most places along the centerline of the path of totality will see a totality duration between 3.5 and 4 minutes long, according to NASA. Some places in the U.S. come close to the maximum; Kerrville, Texas, will have a totality duration of 4 minutes, 24 seconds.

What is the path of totality for the 2044 solar eclipse?

After the April 8 eclipse, the next total solar eclipse that will be visible from the contiguous U.S. will be on Aug. 23, 2044.

Astronomy fans in the U.S. will have far fewer opportunities to see the 2044 eclipse than the upcoming one on April 8. NASA has not yet made maps available for the 2044 eclipse, but, according to The Planetary Society , the path of totality will only touch three states.

The 2024 eclipse will start in Greenland, pass over Canada and end as the sun sets in Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota, according to the Planetary Society.

Aliza Chasan is a digital producer at 60 Minutes and CBSNews.com. She has previously written for outlets including PIX11 News, The New York Daily News, Inside Edition and DNAinfo. Aliza covers trending news, often focusing on crime and politics.

More from CBS News

See the list of notable total solar eclipses in the U.S. since 1778

When was the last total solar eclipse in the U.S.? Revisiting 2017

How to make pinhole cameras to watch the 2024 solar eclipse safely

Hotel prices soar as tourists flock to see solar eclipse

The 8 Best Noise-Cancelling Headphones For Flying In 2024

Flying was never the most stress-free way to travel, but thanks to never-ending airline delays, unruly passengers, and the incredible shrinking airline seat, it's become a nightmare. If you've decided it's finally time to invest in a quality pair of noise-cancelling headphones for flying, we've got you covered.

The good news is that plenty of headphones, from over-ear headphones to wireless earbuds , offer active noise cancellation. And in 2024, it's not too hard to find ANC headphones cost under $100.

Even so, if you want to find the best noise-cancelling headphones for airplanes, you should be prepared to pay closer $200 to $500 (exempting our budget pick from Anker Soundcore). Premium headphones offer improved active noise cancellation and transparency modes that allow you to hear those all-important gate announcements.

Let's not forget that ANC on its own won't save the day — otherwise, we'd just direct you to our review of the best noise-cancelling headphones . For long flights, comfort is also key. It won't matter if your headphones block sound if you only want to wear them for two out of five hours of your flight. A few extra features — like balanced sound and spatial audio — can't hurt either.

With all that in mind, we've rounded up the best headphones for flying based on our extensive research and hands-on testing.

Because shopping for headphones shouldn't be as stressful as heading to the airport, we've answered every question you need to know before purchasing. Read on for essential info as well as the very best noise-cancelling headphones for flying in 2024.

Does paying more really get me more noise cancellation?

Generally, yes. Many cheap headphones claim to offer "noise-cancelling" features, but a $50 pair of over-ear headphones will never compare to Sony noise-cancelling headphones. Typically, the more you pay and the better known and regarded the brand is, the better the noise cancellation. Brands like Bose and Sony offer multiple levels of noise cancellation so you can choose to be completely blocked off from the world or opt to allow some environmental noises to come in while flying. 

Paying more can also get you some nice features to supplement your ANC, like voice assistant support, expansive battery life, advanced codec support for better-sounding music, or better call quality. If you're a frequent flyer, the cost is almost certainly worth it.

What are the best noise-cancelling headphones for flying?

Noise-cancelling headphones are at their most useful on airplanes. While flying, it's difficult to find a moment's peace when so much is going on around you. Frequent flyers may prefer to rest or work, and the best way to do this is by using the best noise-cancellation methods to block out the chaos. 

With that in mind, some headphones' ANC works best on blocking out people talking more than ambient engine sounds, and vice versa, and people will have different preference levels for how much ANC they actually like. In addition, for long-haul flights, you may also be interested in the best noise-cancelling headphones for sleeping

With all that in mind, we've included the best ANC headphones for every traveler. So, read on to find the best noise-cancelling headphones for airplanes in 2024 — all based on Mashable's in-depth research and hands-on headphones reviews.

Best overall: Bose QuietComfort Ultra

Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones

Who it's for:.

If you're looking for over-ear headphones that sound great and can give you all day wear, making the hefty investment in the Bose QuietComfort Ultras may well be worth it. While we tested these headphones over a period of a couple weeks, we were especially impressed when we wore for the entirety of a five hour flight (and about an hour before getting on the plane), while also wearing glasses — never once did we feel the need to take them off.

Why we picked this:

Shopping Reporter Bethany Allard here. Personally, I've owned and used Bose QuietComfort 35 IIs for several years, and tested the QC 45s for a couple months before testing these. Between the former two, I can't say I noticed a huge difference in quality — both are excellent. But, with the Ultra's, I feel like Bose really stepped up the QuietComfort line. They feel durable, but just as comfortable. The sound profile feels richer, and the immersion mode allows for a spatial audio experience that amps up the experience.

And then, of course, there's the ANC. I work from home and live about 50 feet across the street from a massive construction project, so some form of ANC is a necessity to me. The Ultras block out the sound better than the other two QuietComfort models. As mentioned above, I took them on a plane ride, and was impressed at how comfortable they stayed and how well they blocked out the sound of the airplane and fellow passengers. As for portability, the hinge on the earcups allows them to fold flat and in, so they fold up smaller than other headphones like the Sony WH-1000XM5s can.

With all that said, they're not perfect. For starters, the battery life could be better. The stand-by mode doesn't work the most consistently either, and similar to past QC headphones I've tried, connecting to multiple devices can occasionally take a few tries upon power up. These issues are annoying, but manageable enough to troubleshoot, and worth dealing with for the comfort and noise-cancelling power these headphones offer.

One Ziff Davis staffer mentioned that after about a month of usage, the power button on his headphones stopped working. We haven't been able to find any more reports of this online, but it's definitely concerning. It's good to know that Bose offers a one-year product warranty .

Battery life: 24 hours | Bluetooth range: 30 feet | App-connected: Yes

Best earbuds for travel: Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds

If you're not an over-ear headphone stan, the Bose QuiteComfort Ultra earbuds offer similarly impressive noise cancellation and comfort as our top pick, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones . If you like to lean against the window to nap during flights or just need a lower-profile set of headphones so you can travel a bit lighter, the QC Ultra buds are the way to go. They're also a cool $130 less than our top pick, making them easier on the wallet.

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds were just released in October 2023, and they've already snagged a Mashable Choice award for their stellar noise cancellation, comfortable fit, and impressive Immersive Audio tech. Per usual for the brand, Bose's ANC drowns out a ton of background noise, making these buds a perfect fit for flights. In his review of the QC Ultra buds , Mashable contributor Timothy Beck Werth mentioned that Bose's noise cancellation is so good, that he often wears these buds even when he's not playing music.

"When I want to take a nap on a plane or focus on my work, I pop in these earbuds and let the noise-cancelling cocoon wash over me," Werth says. "Do they offer 100 percent sound dilution? No, but all but the loudest and closest sounds should disappear. On airplanes, they significantly reduced noise, making it much easier to take a nap. I have to warn my partner when I'm putting on these earbuds, otherwise she'll think I'm giving her the silent treatment."

In terms of complaints, we noticed that the design of the case makes it a bit difficult to remove the buds. We also experienced some finicky Bluetooth connection during long-term testing, but these are minor qualms — the pros of the QC Ultra buds absolutely outweigh the cons.

Battery life: Six hours (Up to 24 with charging case) | Bluetooth range: 30 feet | App connected: Yes

Best for comfort: Bose QuietComfort 45

The Bose QuietComfort line has earned its spot as one of the most popular headphones for travelers thanks to incredible comfort, and the QuietComfort 45s are no exception.

During our testing, we wore the QC 45s for eight-plus hours, some days with glasses, and never once did we experience unpleasant squeezing or feel the weight of these headphones. Mashable Lead Shopping Reporter Haley Henschel said that prior to having the Bose QC 45s, most name-brand models made her head ache after just minutes of wear, but she can wear the Bose headphones all day without an issue. For comfort-first folks, these are your headphones. They are being phased out for newer models (see our pick right above this one), but while they're still around, you can typically find them on sale.

Though you can't fine-tune the ANC as you can with the Bose 700s, the active noise cancellation on these headphones still does a more than adequate job for your flight, managing to block out higher-frequency sounds that most ANC-enabled headphones typically struggle with. A single press of the button on the left ear cup allows you to easily switch between quiet and aware modes when the flight attendant comes around to take your drink order.

Up to 24 hours of battery life is not stellar but not bad either. For one, it's the same battery life as the more expensive QC Ultras, and you can always plug them in for 15 minutes to get back three hours of charge for when you're on the move or taking a short flight. As for the Bluetooth connection, it can be a bit spotty when switching among devices (especially if two are connected at the same time), but the Bose app helps smooth out the process — plus, we're willing to bet you won't be switching between too many devices on a flight.

Budget pick: Anker Soundcore Life Q20

Anker Soundcore Life Q20 headphones

While having active noise cancellation at the ready while traveling might sound great, spending hundreds of dollars for it might sound decidedly less so. If you're not looking for the most top-quality ANC, sound, or build out there, the Anker Soundcore Life Q20s are one of the best entry-level picks that don't break the bank.

Though basically a fifth of the price of our top picks for over-ear headphones with ANC, the Life Q20s wear comfortably and their sound comes through strong and well-balanced. Their design isn't anything to brag about, but the ear cups do fold in and up, so storing them isn't a huge pain. Just make sure to grab your own case if you don't want them floating freely in your bag. Thankfully they're lightweight, but they do suffer from feeling cheaper as a result.

The middling ANC means that it can block out some background noise, but especially high or low-frequency sounds are likely to break through. The battery life, however, is anything but middling, offering 40 hours of playtime, more than enough for long flights (and inevitable delays at the gate). Overall, these headphones epitomize the word decent — but that's not a knock against them at all.

Battery life: 40 hours | Bluetooth range: 33 feet | App-connected: Yes

Best sound quality: Sony WH-1000XM5

Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones

Read Mashable's full review of the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones.

Sony's latest and greatest over-ear noise-cancelling headphones are the WH-1000XM5 . Though they're not an essential upgrade for those who already own the ultra-popular WH-1000XM4s, the improved noise cancellation and fuller sound make these the stronger pick for airplane travel in 2024.

While the ANC is solid, it's not a standout among other high-end noise-cancelling headphones. However, they still pack impressive noise cancellation and stellar audio quality for music. Considering noise cancellation is most effective in tandem with music, these headphones should appeal to music lovers and audiophiles. In her review of the Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones , Mashable's Deputy Reviews Editor Miller Kern said the XM5s were "probably the best-sounding headphones I’ve ever tried," making them a great pick for folks who take pride in their Spotify playlists.

Besides sounding amazing, they offer exceptional travel functionality with the "quick attention" mode, activated simply by covering your right ear cup, allowing you to hear gate change announcements and flight attendants without completely stopping your music. Voice assistant support, crisp call quality, and a great battery life of up to 30 hours complete the package.

Though they look great, the biggest drawback is that these headphones don't fold up, and the carrying case is quite tall, though slim. Still, if sound quality is more important than portability, they're not that much bulkier than other headphones on this list (and they are more travel-friendly than the AirPods Max).

Battery life: 30 hours | Bluetooth range: 33 feet | App-connected: Yes

Best for Apple loyalists: Apple AirPods Max

Apple AirPods Max

Read Mashable's full review of the Apple AirPods Max.

These headphones are expensive as all hell, but for those deep in the Apple ecosystem who want a pair of over-the-ear headphones, they could very well be worth the price. Plus, the noise cancelling is pretty great. You can't find these headphones on sale these days ( there is rumor that they might get an upgrade this year) , so anyone who's not already a diehard Apple fan will probably want to skip these.

The AirPods Max aren't just a pretty pair of headphones. With the help of eight microphones, these headphones provide excellent active noise cancellation. Switching into transparency mode happens with the push of a button, so there's no messing with finicky touch controls to hear what's going on around you. In addition to ANC, they have fantastic sound quality, and support for spatial audio will make cinephiles happy.

Their battery life, however, is a bit lacking compared to similarly priced headphones, thanks to the fact that they have no power button. (They're also missing a headphone jack, for those who like the option of wired listening). They will go into a low-power mode, but you can never completely turn them off. However, this does allow for easy switching in between devices, and for the "Find My" feature to always work. Plus, 20 hours of battery isn't bad, as that should last for even the most long-haul flights. In a pinch, five minutes of a charge can get you an hour and a half of battery life.

The carrying case is unfortunately, as former Mashable Tech Reporter Brenda Stoylar wrote in her review , "possibly the dumbest thing Apple has ever designed," so these headphones are probably best for people who don't mind wearing them around their neck for the entirety of their trip.

Battery life: 20 hours | Bluetooth range: Up to 300 feet | App-connected: Yes

Best for adjustable ANC: Bose 700

Read Mashable's full review of the Bose Noise Canceling 700 headphones.

The Bose 700s are truly top-of-the-line headphones for active noise cancellation, which makes them one of the best noice-cancelling headphones for flying in 2024. Frequent flyers don't want to be reminded that they're surrounded by a bunch of stressed-out strangers, and these premium over-ear headphones will get the job done.

They offer 10 levels of ANC so you can finely tune your experience, blocking out as much or as little as you want. You can create up to three different presets between 0 and 10, so you won't have to filter through all ten options every time you want to change the settings. This level of customization is not common among headphones, really setting the Bose 700s apart from its competitors. Alongside that, they sound great, with bass strong and mids suitably crisp, delivering the audio quality you'd expect from Bose.

In his review, Mashable's Alex Perry noted how comfortable the rubber padding on the headband and the foam ear cups were, even when worn for long periods. He also said these headphones are great at blocking out background sounds while on calls, which makes them especially ideal for frequent travelers who often find themselves on the phone while waiting in noisy airport terminals. To top it all off, they fold flat and come with a zip-up case for safe transport. A downside of these headphones is the battery life, which like the AirPod Max, maxes out at 20 hours. However, the biggest downside is that like the QC 45s, these headphones are also being phased out of Bose's line, so they can be harder to find and aren't likely to be restocked.

Battery life: 20 hours | Bluetooth range: Up to 33 feet | App-connected: Yes

Best earbuds for Apple users: Apple AirPods Pro

Apple AirPods Pro

Read Mashable's full review of the Apple AirPod Pros.

If you prefer something more lowkey than a bulky pair of over-the-ear wireless headphones, opt for a pair of earbuds for travel instead. Though this usually means noise cancelling takes a big hit, that's not the case with the second-gen Apple AirPods Pro . Mashable Tech Reporter Stan Schroeder deemed these, "the first pair of earbuds I'd actually consider taking on an airplane," due to the quality of their ANC.

The ANC ante has been upped with the latest Pros, which offer even more sound-blocking power than the already great first-generation model. The design remains essentially the same, so you can easily stow the charging case in your bag or pocket. Plus, with last year's upgrade, the USB-C charging port likely means you have to lug around one less cable. Adaptive transparency mode allows you to hear outside noise once more with a press of the stem, while still dampening unwanted noise. To add to the aural experience, these buds do have spatial audio, though that feature is infamous for working great with some songs and not working at all with others.

Plus, the easy pairing AirPods are known for being even more efficient thanks to the upgraded H2 chip found in these earbuds. The especially great thing about AirPods is that though they're expensive, they do go on sale regularly throughout the year.

Battery life: 6 hours (up to 30 hours with charging case) | Bluetooth range: Up to 60 feet | App-connected: Yes

How we tested for the best noise-cancelling headphones for flying

Six out of seven of these headphones have been hands-on tested by Mashable staff, including past and current tech reporters, senior tech editors, and our deputy reviews editor.

The remaining pair, the Anker Soundcore Life Q20 , were selected after extensive research into specs and customer reviews. In addition to premium headphones from Sony, Bose, and Apple, we also wanted to include some of the best budget noise-cancelling headphones for airplanes. We selected these headphones based on our research and the reliability of Anker. We'll be hands-on testing this model for a future update.

We added the Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones to our list of recommendations in Nov. 2023, and as of Feb. 2024, tested the Bose QuietComfort Ultra earbuds and the JBL Tour One M2 headphones. The Bose QuietComfort Ultra earbuds will be added to this roundup in a future update. At this time, the JBL headphones didn't make the cut. We liked their long battery life, comfort, and surprisingly functional multipoint pairing, but we didn't feel like their $300 price tag matched up to the quality of the active noise cancellation. It wasn't bad, but it didn't wow us, and if you're willing to spend that much, we'd recommend going with Bose instead.

All of these headphones were chosen with the following criteria in mind:

• Comfort: As we mentioned above, the quiet of active noise cancellation becomes much less enjoyable if the headphones delivering it squeeze your head for the entirety of your flight. Any headphones that weren't favored for long-term wear didn't make our list.
• Battery life: If your headphones' battery is going to die 30 minutes into your flight, they're not going to cut it for even the shortest of trips. Our picks were typically in a higher price range that have better battery life and quick charge options for the times when you forget to juice up your headphones the night before you leave.
• Active noise cancellation quality: There are lower cost options for ANC, but not all active noise cancellation is delivered the same. That's why we focused on picks that either offered multiple levels of ANC, or delivered a strong level of ANC on its own, that didn't require music to make a noticeable difference.
• Portability: Over-the-ear headphones are going to deliver the best noise cancellation possible, but they are bulky. To keep these picks travel-friendly, we looked for headphones that fold up or that come with sleek carrying cases.
• Durability: Taking your headphones with you through TSA lines just opens them up to more wear and tear, so we went for higher-cost picks that are likely to survive the journey. Plus, we made sure to choose headphones that will last you for years, so the upfront investment is worth it.

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