Pedestal fan or tower style.

We recommend currently available pedestal fans which score at least 80% and above for airflow and tower fans which score at least 75% and above for airflow.

This overall score determines which products we recommend and reflects the airflow score, which is a calculation of airflow at maximum speed. You can compare other features that are important to you using the filters.

The airflow score is determined by measuring airflow speed at various points (depending on fan type) at maximum speed and calculating airflow volume. The CHOICE Expert Rating is the airflow score.

On the lowest speed, this is the noise in decibels (dB) you can expect. For context, 40dB is a whispered conversation, whereas 60dB is a normal conversation.

On the maximum speed, this is the noise in decibels (dB) you can expect. For context, 40dB is a whispered conversation, whereas 60dB is a normal conversation.

Many fans allow you to adjust the angle of breeze up and down.

Many fans allow you to adjust the angle of breeze up and down.

Shop Ethical rates the environmental and social impact of the company (not the product) using independent sources. This rating is not included in our total score. N/A means there is no rating for that company.

Manufacturer's stated warranty. ACL refers to your rights under the Australian Consumer Law.

Country where the fan was assembled, as stated by the manufacturer.

This is the recommended retail price at the time of testing.

We work out the fan's annual running cost by assuming two hours of use at max level each day, then continuous use for eight hours on low level each night, for three months (92 days). Energy is charged at 40c/kWh.

Number of fixed settings (usually low, medium and high). This is different from fan "modes" that switch between different speeds throughout a cycle.

How many degrees the fan oscillates from side to side. Zero means it is fixed.

Light ones are easier to move, heavy ones may have a stable base.

The maximum height the fan can reach after the stand is adjusted to its highest position.

Measured at the widest point, rounded to the closest centimetre.

Measured at the widest point, rounded to the closest centimetre.

Remote controls are handy so you don't have to physically get up to change settings. Make sure any button battery compartments are secured with a screw or require two deliberate actions to open to prevent children from accessing them.

Many fans have a timer mode so they can turn off after a few hours while you sleep, for example.