Whether you want to circulate fresh, cool air throughout your home or complement existing room décor, a ceiling fan can be an excellent purchase. But with so many different models, sizes, and features to consider, finding the right ceiling fan for your bedroom or den can be a challenge.
To help you narrow down your choices, we looked at over 50 of the top ceiling fans on the market and read over 300 customer reviews. Overall, our choice for the best overall ceiling fan is the Hunter Key Biscayne Weathered Zinc, which has a traditional, classic design that fits with any decor type and delivers excellent airflow for small or medium-sized rooms.
Our research showed that ceiling fans can vary greatly in price, with most models costing around $100–$250 depending on the airflow and size. Some more premium, larger models cost significantly more—upwards of $600 or $700. Note that these prices do not include ceiling fan installation costs.
Read our guide below for more of our top picks, expert tips, and answers to frequently asked questions.
Best Overall
Hunter Key Biscayne Weathered Zinc
Good for: Customers looking for a high-quality, affordable fan with excellent airflow for bedrooms or living rooms.
The Hunter Biscayne is a traditional fan that still incorporates an attractive design to go along with its solid functionality. It has a durable construction and a multi-speed reversible motor that delivers powerful, quiet airflow to medium- and large-sized rooms.
Pros and Cons of Hunter Key Biscayne Weathered Zinc
- Includes LED light kit
- Has pull chain for easy adjustability
- Is damp rated, so can also be used outdoors
- Lacks airflow compared to some high-end models
- Does not include remote control
What People Are Saying About The Hunter Key Biscayne Weathered Zinc
We found that customers who were impressed with this fan liked that it had an excellent airflow and was easy to install. Others were pleased with its stylish, modern design. However, there were several complaints that this fan was overly noisy, while others were let down by the lack of remote control.
Best Value
Hunter Builder Deluxe 5-Blade
Good for: Homeowners seeking a traditionally-designed fan that is well-constructed and has a reversible fan motor.
This low-profile Hunter fan has an affordable price point but still features an excellent set of features. It is well-constructed and comes in bronze or brushed nickel finishes. It also includes a multi-speed reversible motor and its traditional design fits well with any room aesthetic.
Pros and Cons of Hunter Builder Deluxe 5-Blade
- Includes an LED bow light kit
- Comes in numerous finishes
- Is height adjustable
- Some users said it had a loud operation
- Can be difficult to install
What People Are Saying About The Hunter Builder Deluxe 5-Blade
Customers who left positive feedback for this fan liked that it was quiet and moved air well. Others were pleased with its excellent value. On the other hand, some who gave this product negative reviews said that it broke easily, while others found the lighting unit to be inadequate.
Best for Small Spaces
Westinghouse Gun Metal Fan
Good for: Homeowners in the market for a sleek, attractive fan that wits well with modern decor.
Pros and Cons of Westinghouse Gun Metal Fan
- Features sleek, reversible blades
- Has a refined gun-metal finish that fits with modern decor
- Includes three different fan speeds
- Has a relatively limited CFM and may not be sufficient in large rooms
- Some customers said it had a loud operation
What People Are Saying About The Westinghouse Gun Metal Fan
Our team found that customers who were satisfied with this fan generally liked its high airflow output, straightforward design, and high-quality light. However, there were some who found this fan to be challenging to install, and others said it often made loud noises.
Best Smart Fan
Big Ass Fans Haiku Smart Ceiling Fan
Good for: Customers seeking a high-end end with smart control and enough airflow to cool a large room.
This Haiku indoor ceiling fan works well inside your home’s modern aesthetic. This fan has a sleek design and comes with smart home compatibility, so you can control your fan hands-free. If you’re looking for a fan with variable settings that’s suitable for large rooms, this fan is an excellent option.
Pros and Cons of Big Ass Fans Haiku Smart Ceiling Fan
- Includes seven speed settings
- Comes with a remote control for easy adjustability
- Has a high efficiency and CFM that can cool down large rooms
- Has a high price point
- Some customers said it was not as quiet as they were anticipating
What People Are Saying About The Big Ass Fans Haiku Smart Ceiling Fan
Those who were pleased with this ceiling fan were wowed by its plethora of unique features and speed settings, with many customers raving about the airflow and smartphone compatibility. Others liked the design and high-quality build. However, those who had more mixed opinions felt this fan was difficult to install, and others noted it frequently squeaked or made other noises.
Best Rustic Design
Honeywell Carnegie Ceiling Fan
Good for: Homeowners with rustic decor looking for a well-built fan that can cool smaller bedrooms or dining rooms.
The Honeywell Carnegie ceiling fan is a rustic modern fan that comes with LED light bulbs for quality lighting. This fan also incorporates a three-speed setting so you can control the amount of moving air throughout your room.
Pros and Cons of Honeywell Carnegie Ceiling Fan
- Features dual hanging options
- Has reversible blades that can be used during all seasons
- Includes energy-efficient LED bulbs
- Is not designed to cool larger rooms
- Some customers had issues with the remote not working properly
What People Are Saying About The Honeywell Carnegie Ceiling Fan
Reviewers who liked this ceiling fan were impressed with its high-quality construction and durable materials. Others commented on its stylish design. However, others said it was loud, and some customers claimed that getting the remote control receiver was a headache.
Types of Ceiling Fans
Each type of ceiling fan is designed for specific environments and needs. Understanding these different types will help you choose the right fan for your space.
Indoor Ceiling Fans
Indoor ceiling fans are a common type designed for use in enclosed spaces. They come in various sizes, styles, and finishes to suit different room sizes and decor preferences.
- Dual-motor fans: These fans have two motors and can move a large volume of air, making them suitable for large spaces.
- Low-profile or hugger fans: Ideal for rooms with low ceilings, these fans mount flush against the ceiling.
- Standard ceiling fans: These versatile fans can fit in most rooms with standard ceiling heights.
Outdoor Ceiling Fans
Outdoor ceiling fans are specifically designed to withstand exposure to the elements. They are perfect for patios, porches, and other covered outdoor areas. Key features of outdoor fans include:
- Damp-rated fans: Suitable for covered outdoor areas protected from direct water exposure.
- Marine-grade fans: Designed to resist salt air corrosion, these are perfect for coastal areas.
- Wet-rated fans: These can withstand direct exposure to rain and snow, making them ideal for uncovered outdoor spaces.
Smart Ceiling Fans
Smart ceiling fans are the latest innovation in fan technology. These fans can be controlled via smartphone apps or voice commands through smart home systems. Features of smart fans may include:
- Remote operation: Control your fan from anywhere using your smartphone.
- Scheduling: Set your fan to turn on or off at specific times.
- Integration with other smart home devices: Coordinate your fan’s operation with your thermostat or lighting for maximum energy efficiency.
Ceiling Fan Size Guide
Selecting the correct size ceiling fan matters for performance and aesthetics. A fan that’s too small won’t move enough air, while one that’s too large can overwhelm the space.
Room Size Considerations
When choosing a ceiling fan, consider both the square footage and the ceiling height of your room. Here are some general guidelines:
- For rooms up to 75 square feet: Choose a fan with a 29- to 36-inch blade span.
- For rooms 76 to 144 square feet: Opt for a 36- to 42-inch blade span.
- For rooms 145 to 225 square feet: Select a 44- to 50-inch blade span.
- For rooms 225 to 400 square feet: Go for a 50- to 54-inch blade span.
For rooms larger than 400 square feet, consider installing multiple fans or a fan with a blade span of 60 inches or more.
Fan Blade Span Guidelines
The blade span, or sweep, is the diameter of the circle created by the rotating blades. Here’s how to size up a ceiling fan based on room dimensions:
- Up to 50-square-foot room: 30-inch span
- 51 to 100-square-foot room: 36-inch span
- 101 to 200-square-foot room: 42-inch span
- 201 to 400-square-foot room: 52-inch span
- More than 400-square-foot room: 54-inch span or larger
Remember, in long, narrow spaces or very large rooms, you can install multiple fans for better air circulation.
Ceiling Fan Features To Look For
When shopping for a ceiling fan, several key features can impact its performance, durability, and overall value. Here’s what to consider:
Fan’s Motor Quality and Power
The motor is the heart of any ceiling fan. Look for fans with high-quality motors that offer:
- Quiet operation: Look for motors with sealed bearings that never need oiling.
- Reversible function: This allows the fan to be used year-round for both cooling and heating efficiency.
- Sufficient power: Motors range from 1/60 to 1/3 horsepower. Higher-power motors can handle larger blade spans and steeper pitches.
Fan’s Blade Design and Materials
A fan’s blades impact its performance and appearance:
- Blade pitch: Look for angles between 11 and 16 degrees for ideal air movement.
- Material: Wood blades should be sealed to prevent warpage. Plastic blades are often used in damp locations.
- Number of blades: While more blades can make a fan quieter, they don’t necessarily move more air.
Lighting Options
Many ceiling fans come with built-in light fixtures, offering versatile lighting options:
- Downlights: These provide focused light directly below the fan.
- LED options: Energy-efficient LED lights are becoming increasingly common in ceiling fans.
- Uplights: These bounce light off the ceiling for softer, ambient illumination.
Control Mechanisms on Fans
Today’s ceiling fans offer a range of control options for your convenience:
- Pull chains: Traditional pull chains allow you to control the fan and light separately.
- Remote controls: Many modern fans include handheld remote controls, offering greater flexibility.
- Wall controls: Some fans come with wall-mounted controls, providing an alternative to pull chains or remotes.
Top Ceiling Fan Brands
Several brands stand out in the ceiling fan market for their quality, innovation, and design. Understanding what each brand offers can help you make an informed choice for your home.
Casablanca
Casablanca is known for its high-end, stylish fans with powerful motors. Key features include:
- Proprietary Direct Drive motor technology for quiet operation
- Smart home integration options
- Wide range of finishes and styles
Hampton Bay
Hampton Bay fans are known for their affordability and reliability. Their offerings include:
- A range of styles suitable for various room decors
- Easy installation with included hardware and instructions
- Options for both indoor and outdoor use
Hunter
Hunter has been a leader in the ceiling fan industry for over 130 years. They offer:
- Affordable options without compromising on quality
- A variety of styles, from traditional to modern
- Exclusive WhisperWind motor for quiet performance
Minka-Aire
Minka-Aire is recognized for its contemporary and unique designs. Their fans feature:
- Energy-efficient DC motors in many models
- Integrated LED lighting options
- Sleek, modern aesthetics
Monte Carlo
Monte Carlo fans focus on exceptional craftsmanship and design. Features include:
- Customizable options for blades and finishes
- High-performance motors for powerful airflow
- Unique, stylish designs that stand out in any room
DIY Ceiling Fan Installation Guide
Installing a ceiling fan can be a DIY project for those with some electrical experience, as long as proper safety procedures are followed. Here’s a detailed guide to help you through the process.
DIY Fan Installation Steps
Here’s a basic overview of the installation process:
- Turn off the power at the circuit breaker.
- Remove any existing light fixtures.
- Install a fan-rated electrical box if necessary.
- Assemble the fan according to manufacturer instructions.
- Attach the mounting bracket to the electrical box.
- Hang the fan and connect the wires.
- Attach the blades and any light fixtures.
- Restore power and test the fan.
When To Hire a Professional
Consider hiring a professional if any of the following are true for your situation:
- You’re not comfortable working with electrical wiring.
- Your ceiling is very high or has a steep slope.
- You need to install a new electrical box or run new wiring.
- You’re replacing multiple fans or installing fans in several rooms.
A professional can confirm your fan is installed safely and correctly, potentially saving you time and hassle in the long run.
Ceiling Fan FAQs
Which way should a ceiling fan turn?
In the summer, a ceiling fan should rotate counterclockwise so that the blades push cool air down and into the room. During the winter, fans that have the capability should be set to turn clockwise and at the lowest speed. This pulls cool air towards the ceiling, replacing it with warmer air.
What’s the difference between a flush-mounted ceiling fan and a downrod-mount ceiling fan?
Flush-mount ceiling fans are installed flat against the ceiling. These fans are typically installed in smaller rooms or rooms with low ceilings. Downrod-mounting a fan involves using a rod to lower it away from the ceiling. Downrod-mount fans are usually found in rooms with high ceilings.
How do you know if a ceiling fan is suitable for an outdoor area?
Fans use an Underwriters Laboratories (UL) rating when deciding which settings are suitable. There are three UL ratings: dry-rated, damp-rated, and wet-rated. If you’re seeking an outdoor ceiling fan for your outdoor space, ensure that it has a damp or wet UL rating.
Are three-blade ceiling fans a good choice?
Three-blade fans can be a good choice for homeowners. The fans usually require less energy to operate and come in modern designs. A drawback to three-blade fans is that they can be noisier than their five-blade counterparts.
Our Methodology
This Old House has empowered homeowners and DIYers for more than four decades with top-notch home improvement advice in the form of television programs, print media, and digital content. Our team focuses on creating in-depth product and service review content. To date, we’ve published over 1,600 reviews on products in the home space, including power tools, outdoor equipment, major appliances, kitchen gadgets, electronics, and more that focus on product quality and helpfulness to our readers.
To provide our readers with the best recommendations possible, we rely on several key sources of information to help guide our selection process.
Initial Research: Our research process began by generating a list of ceiling fans with a significant number of verified buyer reviews and an average customer review rating of 4–5 stars. We looked at positive and negative reviews alike, focusing on information from both satisfied and critical buyers.
Expert Insights: To complement our in-house expertise, our team looked at reviews and videos from trusted publications and independent testers, spoke with subject matter experts, and drew insights from reader contributions.
Final Product Selection: We then began fine-tuning our list by replacing older models with the latest versions and eliminating any discontinued models. From there, we compared each model’s feature set to create a final shortlist, selecting the best-in-class options for various buyers, budgets, and scenarios.
Once we conclude our research, we craft a comprehensive, user-friendly article of recommended products and additional information to help our readers make the right purchase.