The best portable fans in the UK 2023

When summer rolls around and temperatures start to rise, a fan is a must. And what better way to enjoy the sun than with a portable fan at the beach, in the park or on vacation? Lightweight, compact and battery-powered, this type of fan offers good autonomy and increased efficiency to keep you cool and comfortable wherever you are.

HandFan HF-331b 1
8/10

Editor's Choice

HandFan HF-331b

The best portable fan in 2021

If you're looking for a simple yet functional pocket-sized misting fan, the HandFan HF-331b is the one for you. It has a small ergonomic handle with a folding hinge that makes it easy to use.

15,99 £ on Amazon

The HandFan brand is the market leader for portable fans. It's no surprise that the HandFan HF-331b is part of our selection. This mini misting fan is very compact and can easily fit in a handbag. You can use it by holding it, attaching it to a stand or placing it on a flat desk. This way, you will enjoy a refreshing mist.

This model has a 17 mL water tank from which the nozzles draw water. It also has a folding bottom section that has an extendable stainless steel base. This allows the fan to rest on its handle and lift slightly when positioned 180° flat. The fan offers 3 fan speeds: high, low and medium.

  • Recommended for people with sensitive noses
  • Easy to handle
  • Powerful
  • Compact and very easy to carry
  • A bit noisy
VersionTech Mini USB fan 2
7/10

Inexpensive

VersionTech Mini USB fan

The best entry-level portable fan in 2021

Small but with a long range (3 meters), this device will be your best ally in the heat wave. Foldable at 180°, it can be held in the hand, placed on a piece of furniture, clipped on an object or hung anywhere you want.

10,39 £ on Amazon

Simplicity, efficiency and performance are the key words of this mini portable fan. With its small size (14 x 11 x 10 cm), its quietness (6 dB) and its light weight (220 g), this device can accompany you everywhere and will easily find its place in your handbag. Adjustable on 3 speed levels (low, medium, high), it provides you with fresh air at the beach, during your outings, at the office, at home, etc.

The change of speed is done by pressing a simple button. Held in the hand, this mini fan can be worn directly on your face to cool you down. You can also hang it on your parasol or stroller. With its built-in 2000 mAh lithium battery, the VersionTech can run for up to 8 hours on speed 1 before the red light flashes and asks you to recharge the device.

  • Silent (6 dB) and equipped with a rechargeable battery
  • Foldable, can be hung or clipped on an object, can also be placed on a piece of furniture
  • Good autonomy
  • Offers a range of 3 meters
  • Nothing to report
Ikohs Air Pure Studio ventilateur sans pales 3
9/10

High end

Ikohs Air Pure Studio ventilateur sans pales

The best high-end portable fan in 2021

It is a fan without blades that not only efficiently stirs the air, but also purifies it in an optimal way for the well-being of people with sensitive noses or suffering from allergies. For this price, you would be wrong to deprive yourself of it!

102 £ on Amazon
  • Quiet even at optimum speed
  • Elegant design
  • Ideal for allergy sufferers and those with sensitive noses
  • Nothing to report
Tumelaa 4 in 1 portable air conditioner fan 4
9/10

A great choice

Tumelaa 4 in 1 portable air conditioner fan

The best ally for the adventurer

With this portable 4-in-1 device, you can be sure you'll have everything you need to enjoy a nice, cool summer at home, at the office, and everywhere you go. It's just perfect even for sensitive noses.

35,19 £ on Amazon

With this mobile device, enjoy a hot summer at home or at the office. It is a 4-in-1 model that can be used as an air conditioner, misting fan, humidifier and air purifier. It performs very well as a misting fan thanks to its large 600 ml water tank for long-lasting freshness (up to 10 hours). The Tumelaa has a practical carrying handle and a small size that allows it to be placed high on any piece of furniture.

It provides moist air to ensure the well-being of people with sensitive noses and keep your skin moisturized. Also suitable for night use thanks to its adjustable 7-color backlighting combined with its silent blowing, the Tumelaa promises you a restful and uninterrupted sleep. Finally, it turns off automatically after 5 hours of continuous use.

  • Adjustable airflow direction up and down
  • Easy to use
  • Suitable for people with sensitive noses
  • Especially suitable for small spaces
Tesoky portable neck fan white 5
8/10

A great neck fan

Tesoky portable neck fan white

To keep both hands free

Whether you're going camping, hiking, trekking or anywhere else, this neck fan will keep you cool in the hot summer weather. Lightweight and quiet, it will provide you with remarkable wearing comfort and efficiency.

16,78 £ on Cdiscount

With the Tesoky mini portable fan, you can be sure that you will enjoy a good dose of 360° coolness wherever you go, especially during your outdoor escapades. With it, it's really great to keep both hands free since the device is worn around the neck. Tesoky is also flexible to meet all your cooling needs, and the part in direct contact with the skin is made of silicone. You will be totally comfortable wearing it even for a long time.

Finally, this neck fan has a rechargeable lithium battery of 3,600 mAh that you can charge via a USB cable, ensuring an autonomy of 3 to 9 hours depending on the ventilation speed chosen among the 3 existing. In short, this product is very good except that it is not suitable for running according to some users.

  • Lightweight
  • Without blades: hair won't get caught in it
  • Good battery life
  • Not ideal for running
Buying guide • November 2023

Best portable fan

Any specific needs?

The best portable fan in 2021

The best entry-level portable fan in 2021

The best high-end portable fan in 2021

The best ally for the adventurer

To keep both hands free

Your guide : Samuel

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Comparison table of the best portable fans

The best Inexpensive High-end Excellent A great neck fan
HandFan HF-331b 6
8/10
VersionTech Mini USB fan 7
7/10
Ikohs Air Pure Studio ventilateur sans pales 8
9/10
Tumelaa 4 in 1 portable air conditioner fan 9
9/10
Tesoky portable neck fan white 10
8/10
OUR SELECTION
HandFan HF-331b
VersionTech Mini USB fan
Ikohs Air Pure Studio ventilateur sans pales
Tumelaa 4 in 1 portable air conditioner fan
Tesoky portable neck fan white
If you're looking for a simple yet functional pocket-sized misting fan, the HandFan HF-331b is the one for you. It has a small ergonomic handle with a folding hinge that makes it easy to use.
Small but with a long range (3 meters), this device will be your best ally in the heat wave. Foldable at 180°, it can be held in the hand, placed on a piece of furniture, clipped on an object or hung anywhere you want.
It is a fan without blades that not only efficiently stirs the air, but also purifies it in an optimal way for the well-being of people with sensitive noses or suffering from allergies. For this price, you would be wrong to deprive yourself of it!
With this portable 4-in-1 device, you can be sure you'll have everything you need to enjoy a nice, cool summer at home, at the office, and everywhere you go. It's just perfect even for sensitive noses.
Whether you're going camping, hiking, trekking or anywhere else, this neck fan will keep you cool in the hot summer weather. Lightweight and quiet, it will provide you with remarkable wearing comfort and efficiency.
Weight
250 g
220 g
2.84 kg
1.06 kg
200 g
Silent
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
3
9
4
3
Yes
No
No
Yes
Power
-
4 W
35 W
24 W
-

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Report an error, request the addition of a feature to the table, or suggest another product. Thank you for your kindness!

Buying guide - portable fan

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How to choose your portable fan

For a successful investment, here are the essential parameters to consider when choosing a portable fan.

#1 - Size and weight

For increased portability, make sure your future portable fan is both compact and lightweight without compromising on its performance and efficiency. If you plan to go hiking, for example, make sure the device fits well in your backpack.

#2 - Battery capacity

A portable fan must have a powerful battery that will be able to provide good autonomy. Therefore, opt for a model with a removable battery. This will give you the option of using another battery once the first one runs out. In the meantime, you'll be able to recharge the dead battery.

#3 - Versatility

Prefer a versatile fan so you can use it in a variety of places. For example, you can use it at home, in the office, in your car, on the floor, on a piece of furniture, etc. For example, a height-adjustable fan is an excellent choice. The same goes for 2-in-1, 3-in-1, 4-in-1, etc.

#4 - Your needs

It's important that your future fan guarantees maximum comfort wherever you plan to go. As a result, if you plan to camp in the wilderness for example, opt for a model equipped with LED light. It will be able to act as a flashlight and a light at night. Also, make sure that the device can be hung on an object. This way, you can hang it high up on your tent or umbrella to enjoy maximum coolness.

#5 - Practicality and comfort

For convenience and comfort, opt for a model that can be controlled remotely via a remote control that will save you from getting up each time, especially when you're already warm in your sleeping bag. It's also important that your portable fan has an oscillating design. This will allow it to cover a larger area with the cooling effect of the airflow and spread the cooling air much further.

Cleaning a fan with a grille

Turn off the fan and unplug it. Do not allow the fan blades to move during the operation. Make sure the plug is unplugged from the wall outlet.

Use a vacuum cleaner brush, dusting brush or microfiber cloth to clean the grille. Remove all debris from the outer casing, paying particular attention to the fan vents where air enters and exits.

Spray compressed air into the vent to dislodge dust. Point the nozzle of the cartridge directly into the machine by placing it directly over the vent. Then move the nozzle along the vent at a steady pace while releasing the air. Pass over the entire vent with the cartridge. Note that compressed air is available at many home improvement and office supply stores.

Turn on the fan to blow out any remaining dust. Make sure there is nothing in the fan vent before turning it on. Then, plug the power cord back into the wall and turn the fan on.

How a fan works

Contrary to what you might think, fans don't actually cool a room or a house. They actually just create a wind chill effect. All fans work by moving the air in the fan area. This air movement creates a cool breeze and makes the room feel cooler. Although this breeze is not really cool, it has a pleasant cooling effect that then allows your skin to evaporate perspiration faster.

The different types of portable fans

While some fans are small and portable and can be placed on a desk, others are so large that they require a larger space. There are many different types of portable fans, and they will each have their own specific uses namely: table fans, handheld fans and neck fans.

Tabletop fans

This is the most common type. Tabletop fans are found in almost every home. These units are placed on tables or desks and provide less airflow than the larger models.

Personal desk fans usually have a few settings and can be tilted to adjust the direction of flow. Nevertheless, they are heavier than other types of portable fans.

Hand-held fans

This is a cheap model that helps you stay cool wherever you are. Just like a fan, this small device can be carried in a bag or pocket because of its small size. Some models even have a misting function.

The pocket fan is great for enjoying a gentle breeze when you're in a crowd, at a concert, at the movies, and anywhere else you go. However, most are limited to personal use.

Neck-worn fans

It is a personal cooling fan that comes cheap at all and is worn around the neck. With this device, you can keep both hands free and go about your daily business in peace. Some models even have a massage function for the user's pleasure, while others have a very practical lighting function.

The part of the device in direct contact with the skin is usually made of silicone. This is both comfortable and safe for the user. Since this type of fan has no blades, there is no risk of the user's long hair getting caught in the device. Although some manufacturers recommend it for sports, the device is not really suitable for running.

Portable fan or mobile air conditioner

Portable fan

A portable fan is a light and compact or foldable device that can go anywhere with you. Generally, its ventilation speed is adjustable. Depending on the model, the device also has an oscillation and/or tilt function. Its small size makes it easy to carry and its maintenance is limited to cleaning the blades every 1 to 2 months.

Easy to install, just plug it into an electrical outlet. Most of the current models are equipped with a battery that provides the device with a very good autonomy. Very practical to support you during your outdoor activities. Silent and efficient, the device is equipped with different modes including the night mode which guarantees an atmosphere conducive to the user's sleep. There is also the nature mode which juggles the fan speeds to imitate the natural wind. This is to help the user soothe or fall asleep quickly. Thus, the portable fan can very well be installed in a bedroom or in your office to help you concentrate better.

However, be aware that most portable fans are not powerful enough to cool large rooms. They can only stir the air in your tent, under your umbrella, or on the table, but with the added efficiency of decent power. There are, however, stand fans that can be adjusted in height and folded to fit easily into a backpack.

Mobile air conditioner

Unlike other types of air conditioners, the mobile air conditioner does not require tedious installation work. Like the portable fan, it can go with you wherever you go. It works thanks to a refrigerating circuit. The latter consists of a refrigerant, an evaporator, a compressor, a condenser and an expansion valve. To move the structure, the device is equipped with several wheels.

Because of its design, moving the unit will not be a problem, although the unit cannot fit in a backpack. With a power of 2000 and 4500 Watts, a mobile air conditioner is capable of cooling up to 30 m² of surface.

Note that a mobile air conditioner is noisier than a portable fan. Its sound level easily reaches 75 dB against 65 dB for a portable fan. Not to mention the fact that a mobile air conditioner is largely more energy intensive than a portable fan. Finally, the mobile air conditioner is quite expensive: plan a budget of 300€ on average to have a quality mobile air conditioner. There are cheap air conditioners, but not less than 200€.

Verdict

From a practical point of view, a portable fan is much less restrictive to use than a mobile air conditioner. However, if you want to have a device that combines the advantages of both, you can get a multi-functional fan that can be used as an air conditioner, fan, air cooler and even a misting device.

Why buy a portable fan?

Quiet and space-saving

Portable fans are not like other types of fans that take up a lot of space in your home. Compact, they can be placed on your desk to give you a gentle breeze without hindering your concentration. Likewise, you can carry them anywhere you go without a hitch.

The best ally in the kitchen

A portable fan is a great option for the kitchen. In fact, for safety reasons, it's safer to opt for this device than a ceiling fan that might accidentally put out the gas stove fire if the fan's ventilation speed is powerful enough.

Nomadic and versatile

Portable fans are popular with outdoor enthusiasts (hiking, trekking, camping, etc.) because of their convenience and versatility. Some models have a clip that allows them to be hung up high while others have an LED light to serve as a flashlight. Others can even act as a misting device. In addition, most portable fans come with a built-in battery for excellent battery life.

Simplicity

Unlike wall or ceiling fans, portable fans don't require time-consuming installation work. They fold and unfold easily and are up and running in no time.

Significant energy savings

With a portable fan, there's no need to worry about your electricity bills because the unit uses very little energy.

The best brands of portable fans

In our opinion, the best brands of portable fans in 2022 are :

VersionTech
Tesoky
Supalak
Pro Breeeze
Opolar

VersionTech is a brand that markets a variety of products ranging from gaming headsets and computer accessories, to cooling products such as handheld fans (handheld, USB, clip-on, etc.). The brand is highly regarded for the ergonomics, sturdiness, and design of its products.

Tesoky is a recognized brand in the field of flying outdoor toys, kites, karaoke, and guns and darts. The brand also offers cleverly designed portable fans with futuristic designs that do not go unnoticed by consumers.

Supalak is a brand that is known for its 4-in-1 cooling products. With its portable products and combination of air conditioner, fan, air cooler, and mister or humidifier, it offers a user-friendly way to cool indoor and outdoor spaces. Its air conditioning products can also be equally well used as a sole cooling system or as a supplement to existing air conditioning systems.

The British brand Pro Breeze offers various types of air handling devices including mini portable clip-on fans that are both functional and design-oriented.

Founded

in 2015, Opolar is a brand that works in the cooling and ventilation sector. Thanks to its innovative products with futuristic design combined with accomplished features, it has won over millions of consumers. Its portable, desktop, floor-standing, column fans, etc. are almost always among the best sellers on the market.

What is the price for a portable fan

The diagram below will help you to get an idea of the typical prices for each price range (entry-level, mid-range and high-end).

However, more expensive does not necessarily mean better.

We therefore advise you to always consult our ranking before deciding, rather than blindly relying on price ranges.

Entry-level
10 £ to 20 £
Mid-range
20 £ to 30 £
High-end
more than 30 £
Price range diagram

Tips

Cleaning is key

To ensure that your fan works at its best, you should clean it regularly. Over time, fan parts accumulate dust and debris. This can make the unit noisy and reduce the aerodynamics of its blades as well as its energy efficiency. Dust and debris can also cause the motor to malfunction.

Always opt for new replacement parts

As a precaution, avoid using used parts to repair your fan. Instead, get new replacement parts from the Service Department of the store where you purchased the unit. If you bought your fan online, contact the customer service department. They'll work with you to find a better solution.

Check the fan fuse

For safety reasons, many fans are equipped with a thermal fuse. Like circuit breakers in your home, these fuses are designed to break the electrical connection when too much electricity causes your fan to overheat. When the fuse blows, it breaks the connection and cuts off power to the fan. Note that this type of repair (depending on the fan model) usually requires a good knowledge of electrical repair, so it's best to contact a professional to do it.

Check the condition of the power cord regularly

Before plugging in the fan, always check the condition of the power cord. If it's frayed, buy a new one. Go to a hardware store and make sure the gauge of the new cord is the same as the old one. Before disassembling, take one or more photos. This will show you how the power circuit is designed. Once you have done this, take a pair of pliers or a screwdriver and remove the power cover. Install the new cord according to the photos you took and put the parts back in their respective places again based on those photos.

Grease the motor

A fan that becomes noisy needs lubrication. Over time, the motor gears may lack lubrication. Sewing machine oil will do the trick. You can get it at a sewing store, then start by unscrewing the motor housing. Grease the gear and fan blades. Turn the blades by hand to distribute the oil and reassemble the motor housing. Repeat the operation every 2 weeks.

FAQ

Can I use a quiet fan in conjunction with an air conditioner?

Yes. A portable fan works great with an air conditioner. It can help circulate cool air from the air conditioner throughout your space to make it even more comfortable. In fact, running a fan along with the air conditioner can raise your thermostat by three to five degrees. Place the fan near the vent for best results.

Are portable fans safe?

Most portable fans are very safe, pass rigorous testing processes, and some will even be certified by independent third-party safety tests to verify that they are of the highest quality. However, to ensure you have a unit that is both quality, efficient, and comfortable to use, consider the many selection parameters outlined in this guide.

Do portable fans use more electricity?

Yes. In addition to being a modern and compact device, the portable fan can also give you the luxury of acting as an air conditioner, air purifier, humidifier and/or misting device. With these options, the device can eliminate polluting factors in the air such as pollen, smoke, dust, germs and bacteria. It will also be able to increase the percentage of humidity in the air to avoid respiratory and allergic problems such as asthma, bronchiolitis, etc. All you have to do is adjust your fan to best suit your thermal needs.

Can I leave my fan on when I'm not at home?

Don't let your fans run continuously when you're not home. Not only will this shorten the life of the unit, it will waste energy and cost you more in the long run. Not to mention that it can become an invisible fire hazard. Therefore, every time you leave the room, turn the unit off. The fans in our comparison are all very easy to turn off and on.

Sources

Note: Below are some of the sources we have consulted in writing this article. Links to other sites are not continuously updated. It is therefore possible that a link may not be found. Please use a search engine to find the desired information.
  1. Portable fan tune-up tips that'll blow you away, electrorecycle.ca
  2. Cooling fans : Coolness at the rendezvous, 60millions-mag.com
  3. Fans, ventilation-industrie.fr
  4. 10 Hot tips to cool your home without air-conditioning, capitaland.com
  5. How to clean your fan properly?, les-masure.fr
  6. Contributions of a hand-held fan to self-management of chronic breathlessness, erj.ersjournals.com
  7. Don't sleep with the fan on if you have asthma, rtmagazine.com
  8. 9 home treatments for shortness of breath (Dyspnea), healthline.com
  9. Tips for making a fan more effective, apartmenttherapy.com
  10. Six of the best uses for your electric fan, newair.com
  11. Why sleeping with a fan on could lead to all sorts of trouble, bustle.com
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  32. Laptop fan - Laptop cooler purchase, inmac-wstore.com
See more

Updates

March 2022 : Translation of this buying guide from our partner meilleurtest.fr

See more
Our selection
HandFan HF-331b 11
HandFan HF-331b
VersionTech Mini USB fan 12
VersionTech Mini USB fan
Ikohs Air Pure Studio ventilateur sans pales 13
Ikohs Air Pure Studio ventilateur sans pales
Tumelaa 4 in 1 portable air conditioner fan 14
Tumelaa 4 in 1 portable air conditioner fan
Tesoky portable neck fan white 15
Tesoky portable neck fan white

Lecteurs

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