The Best Window Fans to Keep You Cool

They won’t provide the raw power and low temps of an air conditioner, but window fans can still provide an impressive amount of air circulation. Designed to fit securely into your existing window frame, these handy machines are a great alternative to bulky box fans that take up valuable floorspace, and are simple to set up and install. In addition to a basic fan setting that blows outside air into the room, most options also feature an exhaust mode that pushes interior air outside. This makes them great for rooms that have stale or musty air that needs to be circulated.

Best Window Fans

What to Consider

The first thing to consider when choosing a window fan is whether or not it will fit in your window frame. If you have a window that will require you to orient the fan vertically, make sure the model you're eyeing can do so. Most models will feature some kind of adjustable expander to make them compatible with several window sizes, but you should still double check with the product specs before purchasing.

You should also think about whether or not you want any kind of temperature settings on your fan. It’s worth noting that these settings might not deliver the powerful air blast you might expect, and will be more effective if used in smaller spaces. If you’re looking to really cool down your space, you might want to consider purchasing a dedicated air conditioning unit instead.

How We Selected

We’ve used a variety of window fans over the years, in several different home and room types around the country. We used this hands-on experience, in addition to comprehensive online research, to curate this list of window fans, making sure to include a balanced mix of twin and single bladed models, since some users may have different priorities when it comes to functionality versus more focused power. We also made sure to include window fans at a range of prices, regardless of fan style, so whatever your budget you should be able to find an option that works best for you and your space.

For more ways to stay cool this summer, check out our picks for the best tower fans, desk fans, and whole house fans!