To help you find the best window fan for your home or apartment, we identified and researched the top 20 products available today. Our research focused on the top features and functionalities of window fans including cooling power, adjustability, ease of installation, and user-friendliness. We also looked at durability to ensure we only focused on the longest-lasting units so you get the most bang for your buck. These are some of the best fans that you can use to keep your indoor air fresh at all times.
As a result of our research, we chose the Genesis A1 as the best window fan your money can buy. It features dual fans that efficiently intake or exhaust air from your room with the press of a button. The Genesis also features durable copper motors that are weather-resistant so you can use the fan in wet weather conditions. Keep reading below to learn more about the Genesis A1 and the other top window fans available on the market. We’ll help you identify the criteria for the best fans for any need.
Top 10 Best Window Fans
#1 Genesis A1 Window Fan
Award: TOP PICK
WHY WE LIKE IT: With easy-to-use controls, electronically reversible airflow, and plenty of power to cool most small- to mid-sized rooms, this window fan was an easy choice for our top pick spot. It’s also built with durability in mind, featuring unique copper motors that can withstand wet weather conditions.
- Durable, weather-resistant copper motors
- Adjustable 60°- 80° thermostat
- Three fan speeds
- Not as powerful as some other dual options
- Expandable panels don’t easily adjust
One of the best features of the Genesis A1 reversible window fan is its proprietary Max Cool technology, which is just a combination of user-friendly controls and durable, powerful fan motors. For starters, the fan features an adjustable thermostat that ranges in temperatures from 60° F to 80° F. You also get three individual fan speeds: low, medium, and high. Both the fan speed and thermostat settings are accompanied by LED indicators so you can tell where each setting is at a glance. The fan also includes expandable panels to help fit in most windows. The panels can sometimes be hard to adjust, but the good thing about this is that they’ll stay put once you have them in place.
When it comes to overall fan power, there are indeed other dual window fans that are more powerful than the Genesis A1. However, the difference in power isn’t nearly large enough to eliminate this fan from the running. The opposite is true. The Genesis A1 is powerful enough to sufficiently cool down almost any mid-sized room, making it perfect for bedroom use. The dual fans are powered by unique copper motors that are both durable and weather resistant, so you won’t have to worry about rainy weather ruining your fan. You can also adjust the fan’s airflow direction with the simple flip of a toggle switch for either of the two fans. All of these features and power make this the best window fan for smoking. You might also want to check out our best ventilation fan buying guide to help keep the air fresh.
#2 Bionaire BW2300-N Window Fan
Award: HONORABLE MENTION
WHY WE LIKE IT: This casement window fan gives you the ability to set your temperature and automatically maintain it with a programmable thermostat. Plus, with dual fans that are electronically reversible, you can accurately control which way the air flows in your home.
- Programmable thermostat for accurate control
- Electronically reversible airflow
- Includes remote control
- Fan grills are not removable
- LED lights are too bright in dark
The Bionaire BW2300-N is an option with twin fans measuring 8.5 inches in diameter for a strong airflow that can cool down your room with ease. We found in our Bionaire window fan review that this model fits on double-hung windows with vertical sliders and even features extendable sides to fit nearly any width. The Bionaire BW2300-N’s dual fan configuration provides plenty of power, enough to feel a good breeze even upwards of 15 feet away. We do wish the fan grills were removable for cleaning purposes, but this wasn’t enough of a downside to rank this otherwise stellar option lower.
We were also impressed with the Bionaire dual window fan’s overall user-friendliness, and consider it one of the top-selling points of this window fan. For starters, it features completely digital controls, which are much easier to use than manual dials. You simply need to press a button to control fan speed, temperature, and airflow direction. The dual window fan even features a programmable thermostat. Set the temperature you’d like to maintain and the fan will turn on or off to maintain that temperature. The included remote control also allows you to adjust the fan from a distance. Everything on the user interface features LED indicator lights that tell you what specific settings are being utilized, but the lights may be a little too bright for dark rooms, especially if you’re trying to sleep. For more sleep-friendly options, check out our best fan for your baby room guide which we selected with sound in mind.
#3 Holmes HAWF2043-N Twin Window Fan
Award: BEST ON A BUDGET
WHY WE LIKE IT: With weather-resistant motors, easy installation, and a user-friendly control panel, this window fan is an excellent affordable choice. You can also control each of the dual fans’ airflow direction independently from the other, making for a truly customizable cooling experience.
- Independently controlled airflow
- User friendly, one-touch controls
- Easy installation
- Highest speed can get loud
- Only includes one extender panel
Unlike the Holmes 12-inch Blizzard Fan, the Holmes HAWF2043-N window fan is one of the most affordable options available on the market today, and it doesn’t sacrifice too much in the way of build quality, user-friendliness, or functionality to hold that distinction. The dual window fan is built well overall, with weather-resistant motors and a sturdy design that can fit into most windows. Unfortunately, the Holmes window fan only provides one extender side panel on the right side of the fan, so if your window is wider than others, you may experience some difficulty getting the right fit.
When it comes to overall functionality and power, the Holmes HAWF2043-N can keep up with the best, even despite its budget entry point. The twin fans’ configuration is perfect to move a good amount of air through your living space. However, the best part of this window fan is the fact that you can control the intake/exhaust direction for each fan assembly individually. The unit features a switch for each fan. The other controls are just as easy to control. The Holmes window fan features a single button for one-touch adjustment, making for an incredibly user-friendly option. For additional budget-friendly options, you might also consider the best desk fan.
#4 Comfort Zone CZ310R Window Fan
Award: BEST DUAL DESIGN
WHY WE LIKE IT: If you’re looking for a compact dual window fan with enough power to cool down small- to mid-sized rooms, look no further. This unit has multiple speed functionality, intake/exhaust control, and even a removable screen for better protection of the unit.
- Filter reduces bugs and debris
- Expanders are easy to use
- Includes remote control
- Thin design is not sturdiest on market
- Can’t mute beeping sounds
The Comfort Zone CZ310R is one of the best dual window fans available today, and it’s easy to see why. First of all, it’s a powerful option that can easily move air in or out of your house. It provides a steady, reliable airflow no matter what. It also features three different speed options – low, medium, and high – so you can customize how much of that power you get at any given moment. You can also adjust the direction of the airflow with the press of a button, which only serves to add to the overall versatility of the fan. You also get a remote control for easier adjustment.
The overall build of the Comfort Zone window fan leaves a little to be desired in the sturdiness department. It’s thinner than other models, which is nice for saving space, but also requires you to be extra careful during installation to get a tight fit. The fan includes two extender side panels in case you need them, and those can aid in achieving a tighter fit. We were also impressed to find a removable screen with the Comfort Zone. This is nice to have to keep bugs and debris free from the fan blades during use. For even more airflow, you can consider also installing the best ceiling fans for your space.
#5 Holmes HAWF2041-N Window Fan
Award: BEST QUALITY
WHY WE LIKE IT: This window fan is built extremely well with an extra-sturdy body and aluminum locks that keep it in place. The fan is also incredibly easy to install and features user-friendly controls that allow you to control each of the two fans independently of the other.
- Independent airflow and velocity controls
- Fits tightly in most windows
- Easy to install
- Manual dial controls
- Louder than some available models
The Holmes HAWF2041-N window fan is a dual fan unit that provides tons of power in an extra-durable and sturdy body. This fan offers a high level of build quality that you’d be hard-pressed to find anywhere else. It’s clearly built to last with durable plastic and weather-resistant motors. The HAWF2041-N is also incredibly easy to install with dual extender panels and aluminum locks to keep the fan in place.
Controlling this Holmes window fan is also easily accomplished. The control dials are manual instead of digital, which leads to less accuracy in temperature control overall. However, they don’t detract from the fan’s operation and are still easy to use. You get one dial for the thermostat and two dials for speed control, one for each fan. The Holmes also offers electronically reversible airflow, which, when combined with individual speed controls, creates an incredibly versatile and customizable experience. This fan is powerful, as well, but can get a little loud on the highest speed setting. Fortunately, the increased noise doesn’t drown out any other sound, so it’s still completely suitable to use in your home. If you’d like a quiet option, our best modern ceiling fan buying guide has options that offer whisper-quiet cooling.
#6 Lasko 2138 Window Fan
Award: MOST USER-FRIENDLY
WHY WE LIKE IT: This window fan is versatile and user-friendly with its ultra-simple controls, carrying handle, and snap-on feet. Whether you want to use it in your windows or on the table or floor, this unit is sure to impress.
- Streamlined, simple controls
- Can be used in window or standalone
- Includes carrying handle
- Only two speed settings
- Manual controls
The Lasko 2138 window fan stands out from the crowd because of its overall flexibility and user-friendliness. For starters, you can either install it directly in your window using the extender side panels or you can set it on a stable, flat surface with the included snap-on feet. Of course, you’re still restricted to using it in areas with outlet accessibility.
When it comes to usability, the Lasko reversible window fan is top tier. The fan only features manual controls, but this really only comes into play when it comes to the inconvenience of getting up to adjust settings. In all other aspects, the manual dials and switches are clearly labeled and simple. You’ll have no trouble figuring out the more complex functionalities of the fan, like the reversible airflow or different speed settings. We were a little disappointed to find that the Lasko only provides two different speed settings, but this doesn’t detract from the overall performance too much. You can also use the best wall mount fans to circulate air in your house.
#7 Holmes Group Bionaire BWF0522E-BU Window Fan
Award: BEST TRI-BLADE DESIGN
WHY WE LIKE IT: If you need a slim, quiet, and powerful window fan, this is the best option for you. Despite its compact size, this unit can blow a lot of air and provides accurate temperature control with its built-in thermostat and three individual fan blades.
- Slim, compact design
- Built-in, digital thermostat for accurate control
- Dual extender panels with locking functionality
- Manually reversible airflow
- No remote control
Sometimes, you don’t have a large enough window in the space you want to be cooled, which is where the Bionaire BWF0522E-BU window fan comes into play. Measuring in at just 9 inches tall, this is one of the most compact options available today and can be installed either horizontally or vertically. This horizontal and vertical window fan also features three individual fan assemblies, so it’s still able to move serious amounts of air despite its smaller size. Installation is also really quick, and this thin window fan provides two extender panels with the company’s proprietary “Firm Fit” design that ensures a sturdy and tight fit.
The Bionaire triple fan includes an integrated thermostat with temperature settings ranging from 60° F to 80° F. It also features three separate speed settings: low, medium, and high. You control each of these settings with a single button on the fan, and the unit, unfortunately, doesn’t include a remote control. You can reverse the airflow direction here, but only manually, which takes quite a bit more effort to accomplish. We recommend picking a direction and sticking with it. For a more personalized touch, you can also see our best travel fan buying guide in case you need a little extra breeze.
#8 Air King 9166F Window Fan
Award: MOST POWERFUL
WHY WE LIKE IT: This window fan is a single fan unit that provides some serious power, making it excellent for the whole house, workshop, or warehouse applications. It’s also one of the most durable and long-lasting options you can purchase today.
- Adequately cools ultra-large rooms
- Storm Guard allows window to be closed
- Incredibly durable construction
- Loud operation
- No thermostat
If you need serious cooling power, look no further than the Air King 9166F window fan. This is a single-window fan that packs a powerful punch, which is sufficient enough for both large and small rooms. Of course, with this added power, you should expect more noise, and the Air-King certainly is a bit louder than other fans available today. However, the decibel levels are still compliant with OSHA and ETL standards, so you won’t have to worry about anything like hearing loss.
The Air-King is easily installed and even includes a handy Storm Guard, which allows you to close the window behind the fan during rainy weather, something you don’t see in many window fans today. To control the unit, all you need to do is twist the dial to the desired fan speed on either the intake or exhaust side. This means it offers electronic reversibility, but no internal thermostat functionality. All in all, you can’t go wrong with the Air King 9166F reversible window fan, especially if you need power. For outdoor use, check out our best outdoor floor fan buying guide to help cool off your patio or garage.
#9 Lasko W16900 Window Fan
Award: BEST SINGLE BLADE DESIGN
WHY WE LIKE IT: This window fan is a large, single fan that can move large volumes of fresh air throughout your house or room with ease. It’s also easy to install and operate with a single control dial.
- Powerful airflow, thanks to exhaust motor
- User-friendly installation
- Window can be closed behind fan
- Awkward power cord placement
- Housing is a little flimsy
The Lasko W16900 single window fan is a powerful option that can provide whole-house cooling with minimal effort. You can easily install the fan in most windows with hardly any time involved and get started using it right away. And when you’re ready to turn it off, simply twist the dial to the off position. You get three-speed settings here, with the highest providing the most power, but also the most noise. The Lasko isn’t as loud as other single fans, but it can still get up there on sound.
The Lasko can be adjusted for either intake or exhaust functionality, again simply by twisting the control dial to the appropriate position. The manual control is easy to use, but you don’t get the added convenience of a remote control. For the most part, this Lasko window fan is sturdy and fits tightly in your window, but the housing is a little flimsy, especially when compared to other models. To prevent problems, ensure you have a tight fit by using the extenders, if necessary. For home improvement projects, you might also want to check out our best drying fan buying guide.
#10 Holmes Group Bionaire BWF0502M-WM
Award: BEST COMPACT DESIGN
WHY WE LIKE IT: This window fan is a slim option with triple fan blades and versatile fan controls. It’s powerful enough for smaller rooms and applications with an easy installation that works horizontally and vertically.
- Versatile and intuitive controls
- Remembers previous temperature setting
- Can be installed horizontally or vertically
- Manual intake/exhaust control
- Not as powerful as some models
The Bionaire BWF0502M-WM is the best compact window fan your money can buy these days. It’s powerful enough to intake or exhaust air from small- to mid-sized rooms and we found it perfect for use in the kitchen. This is a triple-fan unit and when you want to change the fan’s speed, the unit only serves power to a certain number of fan assemblies. For example, medium speed only uses two fans, whereas high speed uses all three. The low speed will only use one of the fans.
You have to adjust settings via manual controls, but they’re easy to use and the only real inconvenience comes from the fact that you have to get up from your seat to make adjustments. One unique and helpful feature we found was that the Bionaire window fan will remember your last thermostat setting and resume it when you turn the unit back on. If you have a setting that works best for your room, this is an extra-convenient functionality. You might also like our best USB fan buying guide for additional compact options that offer transportability.
How We Decided
The first, and most important, feature to consider when purchasing a new window fan is its overall cooling power. We only included options that provided enough airflow that you could feel the breeze within 10-15 feet away. We scored units higher if they offered more power when compared to their competitors.
We also looked at the overall functionality and capabilities of the fans. Window fans don’t typically offer a huge variety of cutting-edge features, but some things we watched out for include reversible airflows and speed adjustability. We preferred window fans whose airflow could be reversed electronically rather than manually but didn’t only focus on those options. We also awarded bonus points for digital controls instead of manual controls.
Finally, we only included window fans that were easy to use and easy to install. You won’t want to spend forever getting a fan into your window frame and it’s important to find an option that provides a customizable fit that works with most windows. We rated options higher if they included more than one extender panel, which allows for a tighter and sturdier fit overall.
Best Window Fan Buyer’s Guide
The Most Important Features to Consider
- Fan Power and Adjustable Speeds
The best window fans offer plenty of power to get a good breeze going in your room. While your fan shouldn’t necessarily be so powerful that it blows you away, you should be able to feel the airflow from at least 15 feet away. Most fans also offer at least three different speed levels, but more advanced models offer a greater range of adjustability. - Noise Level
A good window fan offers a solid balance between power and minimal noise. You can expect a bit of a noisier experience when operating at the highest speeds, but it shouldn’t be loud enough to drown out any other sound in the room. At the lowest speeds, your window fan should create a relaxing white noise that is often great for helping you sleep. - Reversible Airflow
By nature, all fans are reversible, meaning they can either intake fresh air or exhaust stale air, depending on the fan blades’ configuration. This also applies to the leading exhaust fans for kitchens. However, not all window fans make it easy for you to reverse the airflow. If this is an important feature for you to have, look for window fans that offer electronic reversibility. With these fans, you simply need to press a button to reverse the airflow whereas other options require you to manually remove the fan and reinstall it in the opposite direction, which is often more hassle than it’s worth. - Number of Individual Fans
You can typically purchase window fans in one of three different configurations: one fan, two fans, or three fans. Options with dual fans offer the best mix of power, size, and minimal noise. However, that doesn’t mean single or triple fans aren’t worth considering, they just come with different considerations. Single fans offer a lot of power but might be too bulky or loud for your preference. Triple fans are slimmer and offer a lot of versatility for those who don’t have large windows, but sometimes lack in power. - User-Friendly Controls
The best window fans are incredibly easy to use for anyone, regardless of experience. Consider purchasing a model that has intuitive controls that are also easy to read. Many of the recent models feature LCD/LED displays and one-touch controls, but the options with control dials can be just as good. Some fans are water-resistant, which is nice, and some fans work automatically, due to built-in sensors.
