Best Battery Operated Fans Reviewed & Rated for Quality

In a Hurry? Editors choice:
 O2Cool 5-Inch
Test Winner: O2Cool 5-Inch
Amazon Link
There's really no such thing as a personal portable air conditioner... yet! For now, we'll have to do with portable fans, and the market is awash with these battery-powered personal blowers that will help you maintain your cool, no matter what latitude you find yourself. But if you love your camping or if you're addicted to seeing the 'real world' think about grabbing one of these portable fans the next time you head out on an adventure. You won't regret it.

Standout Picks

 O2Cool 5-Inch
This nifty little ventilator from O2Cool has become a well-loved favorite online for its sturdy build as well as powerful performance. This unit features a fun design that is available in a variety of colors. It is constructed from highly durable materials and is yet lightweight and compact enough to take with you on all your travels. This unit's user-friendly design and economic cell usage make it a great all-rounder perfect for any occasion.
Amazon Link
$12.99
 SkyGenius Clip-On
This smooth operator from SkyGenius evokes an industrial feel and is yet compact enough to position on your desk for a personal and powerful cooling experience. This unit boasts a clip-on design for easy and secure placement, two different fan speed settings, and an included rechargeable cell. The included cell can last up to 6 hours depending on fan speed and can be easily recharged using the included USB cable. This product's small size and slip-on design will empower you to use it anywhere and everywhere.
Amazon Link
$19.99
 D-FantiX
This handheld device is surprisingly durable for its small size. Made from high-quality ABS plastic, this unit boasts a very sturdy structure that is simultaneously easy to adjust to your needs. The D-FantiX cooling device operates using either a 2000 mAh 18650 lithium-ion cell rechargeable cell or via a USB power source via an included cable. With its foldable design, this unit is highly practical and user-friendly.
Amazon Link
 VersionTech Mini
What makes this device from VersionTech so remarkable is its unique multi-purpose design. This unit was created to exactly fit in with your lifestyle and offers unique folding features for ideal placement and airflow direction. This handheld device comes with a rechargeable cell and USB cable, offers 3 different fan speed settings, and is lightweight and compact enough to carry with you anywhere. Lastly, this device is available in three different colors.
Amazon Link
$15.99
 Honeywell HTF090B
The Honeywell HTF090B has already become an old faithful device in thousands of households all over the world and with good reason. This personal cooling device operates using either a USB power source or with 4 AA batteries and features a unique handle that you can adjust to hang up or carry your device with you. While it only offers one speed, the airflow can reach a distance of up to 3 feet away.
Amazon Link
$12.99
 Bluboon Clip-On
The Bluboon's unique clip-on fan design makes it ideal for tricky placement areas, such as strollers or outside areas. This unit operates via either its included rechargeable cell or via a USB power source via its included USB cable. While it only provides one speed, this device offers powerful cooling as well as a 360-degree rotation for optimum airflow. The device's lightweight design makes it ideal for traveling and mobile users.
Amazon Link
 OPOLAR
You'll be hard-pressed to find a more powerful personal cooling device than this futuristic unit from the trusted manufacturer, OPOLAR. This model offers 3 different ventilator speeds, an included rechargeable cell, internal LED lighting, as well as a one-year warranty. Its compact design makes it the ideal companion for all your travels. In addition, this unit is available in three different colors for optimal personalization.
Amazon Link
 Comlife Clip-On
This sturdy device from Comlife combines powerful cooling with practical design to bring you one of the most reliable personal cooling devices currently available. This model offers a clip-on base design, complete 360 degrees horizontal and vertical rotation, and a powerful cooling breeze. This unit comes equipped with two rechargeable batteries that can last up to 32 hours depending on ventilator speed setting and other external factors.
Amazon Link
 SunPollo Clip-On
The sleek and simple design from SunPollo together with this device's powerful performance is bound to appeal to plenty of users. This device draws its power either from a USB power source or from the included rechargeable cell. In addition, this device features completely silent operation, the option to choose between different ventilator speeds and the sturdy clip-on feature allows for easy and secure attachment to a variety of surfaces and objects.
Amazon Link
 Ryobi P3320
The respected manufacturer, Ryobi, has now created a cooling device that combines air-conditioning power with mobile convenience. The P3320 operates using either an extension cord plugged into an electrical outlet or via the unique Ryobi One+ 18-volt cell system. This sturdy device is also fully customizable and features a back bracket, screw mounting holes and dedicated hanging holes for efficient placement.
Amazon Link
$147.77

Criteria Used for Evaluation

Size

Size

For the most part, battery-operated cooling devices will be significantly smaller than traditional ventilators. This makes them much easier to move around and to place almost anywhere and everywhere.

Despite their smaller size, however, it is likely that you'll prefer a specific size. To determine your ideal size, it might be best to think about where and when you'll be using this device the most and to what purpose.

Once you've established the area where you'll be using your new device the most, you can measure the available space you have for your device to determine whether your chosen device will fulfill the space requirements. However, please note that you'll have to leave some room for a rotating ventilator head.

To check your chosen model's exact measurements, you can consult its product description online or contact the seller or manufacturer for precise details.

Portability

Mobility

One of the key benefits of a cell-based cooling device is the fact that it's highly mobile. You can take your personal device with you anywhere and everywhere and have constant access to easy cooling.

However, some devices may be more mobile than others. Before selecting your ideal travel companion, it might be worthwhile to first think about whether you actually need your device to be mobile? Will you place this device on your desk at work and leave it there? Or will you maybe attach this to your baby's stroller to make summer walks a bit more bearable?

Once you've established that you require a mobile device you should primarily look for something that is lightweight and compact. The last thing you need is a bulky device that takes too much space in your bag and weighs you down.

Battery Life

Battery Life

Your chosen device's cell life will probably be one of the biggest deciding factors when you finally select your ideal device. When picking your device you should carefully read what the expected life of a single cell is for your chosen device to see if it suits your requirements.

For the most part, your device operates using either disposable or rechargeable batteries and both definitely have its perks.

Disposable batteries are very quick to replace and don't require hours to recharge before being ready to use again. Some experts also argue that disposable batteries have a higher energy density which could, in turn, give your ventilator a more powerful performance. However, disposable batteries will inevitably make a dent in your budget and is not environmentally friendly.

Alternatively, rechargeable batteries are friendly to both the environment and your budget since you can use the same cell over and over again. However, this does means that you'll have to allocate time to recharge your cell.

In addition to batteries, some devices will allow you to operate it using a USB cable and power source. This source can be anything that has a USB port, such as a computer, power bank, etc. This ensures that you have complete versatility when it comes to powering up your selected device.

Versatility

Recharging Options

If you've selected a device that uses rechargeable batteries you should consider how you intend to recharge those batteries when needed.

Generally speaking, most modern devices' batteries can be charged by simply plugging it into a USB power source and provide an included cable for that purpose.

However, this is not always the case. You should inquire carefully about how often your new device will require recharging and how you can recharge your device.

These inquiries will help you make a more informed decision about the suitability of your new device to your needs and lifestyle.

Use

Noise

The noise levels of your chosen device may not always be a huge determining factor. However, for those who intend to place the device in a noise-sensitive area, may find it well worth it to consider the noise that their device may emit.

If you intend to use this device either in a formal office environment, a library or study hall, or perhaps even in a nursery. It is likely that you would prefer a device to run as quietly as possible since any noise disturbance could cause discomfort to those around you.

For the best results, you should seek out devices that specifically claim to be silent during operation. This will usually be stated in the product's description. In general, a device that utilizes a brushless motor tends to be quieter during operation than their traditional counterparts.

Unfortunately, product descriptions can sometimes be misleading. For more accurate information, read the product's reviews and see what other users have to say about its performance!

However, also please note that any excessive noise from a new device that claims to be silent could perhaps be indicative of an internal problem. If this happens, you should switch off the device and seek help from the device's manufacturer or retailer.

Durability

Durability

Of course, everyone wants their devices to last for as long as possible. However, this goal could be more within your reach if you select a device that has been specifically constructed using only premium and high-quality materials.

Plastic is no longer considered a cheap material, but instead, one that is cost-efficient and more conducive to powerful performance thanks to its unique material characteristics. You'll find that almost all personal cooling devices have been constructed using one kind of plastic or another since its the most practical material.

However, some plastics are better than others. To ensure that your device will last, you should look out for devices that have been made using Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) plastic.

Also, the most expensive product is not necessarily the most durable. Read through user reviews to determine if and how quickly your selected device is prone to breakage.

Safety Hazards

Safety

Safety should always be a primary concern in any appliance or device that you buy and this is no different when it comes to personal cooling devices.

To ensure the safety of your product, read carefully through your included user's manual and inspect your device before using to ensure that it is in perfect working condition. As you continue to use your device, always ensure that your device's batteries are in fine working order and that this unit has no exposed cables or wiring that could harm you.

For those who intend to use this device around children, please ensure that the ventilator blades are protected by a grill, to prevent inquisitive fingers from getting hurt by ventilator blades.

Features

Fan Speeds

Since these devices are significantly smaller than their traditional counterparts, you won't always be able to choose between different ventilator speeds.

Ventilator speeds do offer certain benefits as it allows you to tailor your cooling experience to your exact needs. A selection in ventilator speeds may also be necessary if you're buying this device for young children or the elderly. While not always necessary, this added feature could greatly enhance your personal cooling experience.

10 Best Battery Operated Fans

1. O2Cool 5-Inch

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$12.99
 O2Cool 5-Inch
Amazon Link

This nifty little ventilator from O2Cool has become a well-loved favorite online for its sturdy build as well as powerful performance. This unit features a fun design that is available in a variety of colors. It is constructed from highly durable materials and is yet lightweight and compact enough to take with you on all your travels. This unit's user-friendly design and economic cell usage make it a great all-rounder perfect for any occasion.

Innovative Cooling
The O2Cool model features a unique patented blade design that has been created to maximize the airflow and quality, while simultaneously extending the life of your batteries. This unique blade system is also covered by a protective case that will prevent small fingers from getting hurt.

Two Fan Speeds
While this unit is compact enough to travel with, it still offers the user cooling diversity. You can easily select one of two ventilator speeds by adjusting the sliding switch located at the bottom of your device.

Cost and Value
In addition to an array of highly attractive features, this unit also boasts a highly competitive price. This unit's price is very much in line with market standards while still offering its user a powerful cooling experience that is energy efficient.

Amazon Link
$12.99

2. SkyGenius Clip-On

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$19.99
 SkyGenius Clip-On
Amazon Link

This smooth operator from SkyGenius evokes an industrial feel and is yet compact enough to position on your desk for a personal and powerful cooling experience. This unit boasts a clip-on design for easy and secure placement, two different fan speed settings, and an included rechargeable cell. The included cell can last up to 6 hours depending on fan speed and can be easily recharged using the included USB cable. This product's small size and slip-on design will empower you to use it anywhere and everywhere.

Unique Design
The SkyGenius fan boasts a design that is both sleek and functional. The clip-on feature allows you to securely place your fan almost anywhere, including the gym, your desk, a baby stroller, etc. Moreover, the fan blades are protected by a durable grill.

Rechargeable Cell
You will find a 2600mAh 18650 cell as well as USB cable included in your product's box. The included cell can last anything between 2 and 6 hours depending on your selected fan speed. Once the cell is depleted you can easily recharge it via the USB cable using any USB power source.

Cost and Value
This unit is somewhat more expensive than other similar products available on the market. The higher cost could perhaps be attributed to the fact that it a rechargeable cell and USB cable is included in your purchase that will inevitably save you money on cell purchases.

Amazon Link
$19.99

3. D-FantiX

Where to buy
Amazon Link
 D-FantiX
Amazon Link

This handheld device is surprisingly durable for its small size. Made from high-quality ABS plastic, this unit boasts a very sturdy structure that is simultaneously easy to adjust to your needs. The D-FantiX cooling device operates using either a 2000 mAh 18650 lithium-ion cell rechargeable cell or via a USB power source via an included cable. With its foldable design, this unit is highly practical and user-friendly.

Multifunctional
This device includes an array of features to make it easy for you to use it in almost any setting. The handle has been optimized to perfectly fit the human palm. However, you can easily fold and adjust this device to place on almost any surface or object. Moreover, a clip-on function allows you to attach this unit securely to a wide variety of objects or surfaces.

Brushless Copper Core
The manufacturer has harnessed a unique motor technology to ensure that this unit is completely silent during operation, can provide a strong cooling breeze and increases the life expectancy of the device itself.

Cost and Value
Despite its innovative design and unique brushless copper core technology, this unit is very competitively priced and is, in fact, one of the most cost-effective products on our list. Despite its low price, you can expect reliable performance, durability, and included accessories from this model.

Amazon Link

4. VersionTech Mini

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$15.99
 VersionTech Mini
Amazon Link

What makes this device from VersionTech so remarkable is its unique multi-purpose design. This unit was created to exactly fit in with your lifestyle and offers unique folding features for ideal placement and airflow direction. This handheld device comes with a rechargeable cell and USB cable, offers 3 different fan speed settings, and is lightweight and compact enough to carry with you anywhere. Lastly, this device is available in three different colors.

Versatile Use
With its durable design and innovative folding mechanism, this is one of the most versatile personal cooling devices currently available on the market. You can fold this unit in half to place it almost anywhere, or use the clip on feature to securely place it on the closet object for handsfree cooling.

Three Fan Speeds
Despite its tiny size, this unit allows you to choose between three different fan speed settings: low, medium, and high. At its highest setting, this powerful device can provide a cooling breeze at a distance of up to 3 meters away.

Cost and Value
This unit is competitively priced and definitely in line with market value expectations. In addition to an attractive price, this unit is highly versatile and comes with a rechargeable cell and USB cable.

Amazon Link
$15.99

5. Honeywell HTF090B

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$12.99
 Honeywell HTF090B
Amazon Link

The Honeywell HTF090B has already become an old faithful device in thousands of households all over the world and with good reason. This personal cooling device operates using either a USB power source or with 4 AA batteries and features a unique handle that you can adjust to hang up or carry your device with you. While it only offers one speed, the airflow can reach a distance of up to 3 feet away.

Adjustment Settings
The HTF090B features an innovative handle design that you can use and adjust to set up your cooling device in almost any environment or setting. This handle can be used to set up your device as a free-standing fan or can be hung up, or just used to easily carry it around with you.

Energy Efficient
Unlike the majority of other personal handheld cooling devices, this unit utilizes a DC motor instead of the standard AC motor. This means that your device will be up to 50% more energy efficient than the standard personal cooling device.

Cost and Value
Compared to other similar products currently available on the market, the Honeywell HTF090B is very competitively priced. While this unit does not include batteries, its sturdy design and respected manufacturer reputation definitely offers immense value for money.

Amazon Link
$12.99

6. Bluboon Clip-On

Where to buy
Amazon Link
 Bluboon Clip-On
Amazon Link

The Bluboon's unique clip-on fan design makes it ideal for tricky placement areas, such as strollers or outside areas. This unit operates via either its included rechargeable cell or via a USB power source via its included USB cable. While it only provides one speed, this device offers powerful cooling as well as a 360-degree rotation for optimum airflow. The device's lightweight design makes it ideal for traveling and mobile users.

Clip-On Function
This device was made with mobility in mind and its unique clip-on base makes it easy for anyone to place this unit securely to almost any surface or object. While this is promoted as a baby stroller fan, it has many more uses! You can easily use this in any environment including, office, home or outdoor environments.

Diverse Power Sources
Recharging is made easy with this unit's included 2200 mAh 18650 cell and USB cable. After recharging the cell can last for anything between 2.5-6.5 hours depending on external conditions.

Cost and Value
While this device is somewhat more expensive than other similar devices currently available, it does offer several added features. Unlike many other models, the Bluboon clip-on model includes a rechargeable cell, USB cable, and is available in a variety of eye-catching colors.

Amazon Link

7. OPOLAR

Where to buy
Amazon Link
 OPOLAR
Amazon Link

You'll be hard-pressed to find a more powerful personal cooling device than this futuristic unit from the trusted manufacturer, OPOLAR. This model offers 3 different ventilator speeds, an included rechargeable cell, internal LED lighting, as well as a one-year warranty. Its compact design makes it the ideal companion for all your travels. In addition, this unit is available in three different colors for optimal personalization.

Versatile Power Supply
The OPOLAR ventilator can draw its power using either the included rechargeable 1.2200 mAh cell or from a USB power source using the included USB cable. The included cell can last anything between 3-13 hours depending on ventilator speed setting.

Powerful Cooling
Unlike most other small cell operated cooling devices currently available on the market, this model allows you to choose between three different ventilator speed settings. The user can easily switch between the low, medium or high setting by adjusting the user-friendly control panel located at the bottom of the device.

Cost and Value
While this unit is perhaps somewhat more expensive than other products currently available, it is worth remembering that this unit provides a significantly more powerful cooling breeze. In addition, this product includes a rechargeable cell, USB cable, and is covered by a one-year warranty.

Amazon Link

8. Comlife Clip-On

Where to buy
Amazon Link
 Comlife Clip-On
Amazon Link

This sturdy device from Comlife combines powerful cooling with practical design to bring you one of the most reliable personal cooling devices currently available. This model offers a clip-on base design, complete 360 degrees horizontal and vertical rotation, and a powerful cooling breeze. This unit comes equipped with two rechargeable batteries that can last up to 32 hours depending on ventilator speed setting and other external factors.

Long cell Life
The user receives two 4400mAh lithium-ion batteries and a USB cable included in the box when purchasing this product. Recharging takes up to 4 hours, but batteries can last up to 32 hours depending on usage environment.

Durable Clip-On
Several personal cooling devices feature a clip-on base design. However, this unit from Comlife has revolutionized this feature to include an Eva pad that adds protection to the surface or object and can be comfortably clipped onto any surface or object that is up to 1.38 inches thick.

Cost and Value
While the Comlife personal cooling device is somewhat more expensive than other similar products, it indisputably offers incredible value for money. Not only does this unit have a much longer cell life, but it's much more versatile in its placement and direction options, and is made of highly durable materials.

Amazon Link

9. SunPollo Clip-On

Where to buy
Amazon Link
 SunPollo Clip-On
Amazon Link

The sleek and simple design from SunPollo together with this device's powerful performance is bound to appeal to plenty of users. This device draws its power either from a USB power source or from the included rechargeable cell. In addition, this device features completely silent operation, the option to choose between different ventilator speeds and the sturdy clip-on feature allows for easy and secure attachment to a variety of surfaces and objects.

Quiet Operation
The SunPollo is a stealthy operator which makes it ideal for those who intend to use it in a noise sensitive area. You can easily set up this device in your office, a library, or a nursery without worrying that it might disturb anyone in the area.

Sturdy Design
A common downfall of several devices is that they are prone to falling over. This is easily averted with the SunPollo's clip-on base as well as the 4 added non-slip footpads. This will ensure that your device stands solidly on any surface whether its clipped on or not.

Cost and Value
The SunPollo is somewhat more expensive than most other similar products available on the market. However, this difference in price is not exorbitant and can be attributed to this device's very sturdy design and innovative motor technology.

Amazon Link

10. Ryobi P3320

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$147.77
 Ryobi P3320
Amazon Link

The respected manufacturer, Ryobi, has now created a cooling device that combines air-conditioning power with mobile convenience. The P3320 operates using either an extension cord plugged into an electrical outlet or via the unique Ryobi One+ 18-volt cell system. This sturdy device is also fully customizable and features a back bracket, screw mounting holes and dedicated hanging holes for efficient placement.

Different Speed Settings
The Ryobi P3320 is all about customized cooling, and this is no different when it comes to this device's selection of ventilator speed settings. You can easily choose between either a low or high setting to suit your exact cooling needs.

Reliable Performance
The P3320 stands out from most other devices in its sturdy design and thoughtful added features. Moreover, this device will deliver a powerful cooling experience every time and stand the test of time thanks to its durable design.

Cost and Value
The Ryobi P3320 is perhaps one of the most expensive features products. However, this discrepancy in price is definitely worth it as this unit carries the trusted Ryobi name, is incredibly durable, and is fully customizable.

Amazon Link
$147.77

Sources

  1. Wikipedia, Fan, Webpage
  2. Version Daily, Advantages and disadvantages of alkaline battery, Webpage
  3. Creative Mechanisms, Everything You Need to Know About ABS Plastic, Webpage
  4. Wikipedia, Brushless DC Electric Motor, Webpage