USB desktop fans: I tested several and this one is the most worthwhile.

Esvyit is the best option among the four models analyzed: it can be used on a table or hung thanks to its handle, it has a rechargeable battery that lasts up to 8 hours, and it is the quietest.

Summer arrives with its sun, ice cream, and unforgiving heat, and to combat it, smart ceiling fans and portable air conditioners become essential allies. We usually imagine medium- or large-sized devices, plugged into the power outlet and occupying a fixed location in the home or office. But they're not the only option: USB fans are gaining popularity thanks to their portable design, lightness, and the convenience of connecting them directly to a computer.

Until now, I always use an air conditioner in the room where I work during the warmer times of the day. Since I'm not particularly hot, I quickly notice I'm getting cold, and sometimes my throat even gets sore. Still, when the heat hits, you can't stand it without some ventilation.

After testing four models of USB desktop fans for several weeks, I've found them to be a great option for cooling down without having to cool the entire room. Obviously, the airflow they offer can't be compared to that of an air conditioner or a conventional fan, but for specific occasions—especially when placed near the computer—they're quite effective. Furthermore, their compact size, the ease of moving them from one place to another, and the simple fact that they can be connected via USB make them a very practical accessory for those of us who work remotely in the summer without having to go from hot to cold.

For testing, the models chosen are characterized by their affordable price and a significant number of reviews on Amazon. These are the criteria considered:

• Design: They all have a compact size and light weight in common. The main difference in this regard is the quality of the materials.
• Noise: They usually make some noise, but there are differences between them.
• Power: How powerful the fan is when operating and how many speeds it has.
• Experience: If the USB fan has exceeded expectations, the airflow it moves...

Who it's for: Those looking for the quietest model.

Why we recommend it : When I took it out of the box, I saw it was one of the larger models and made with better-quality materials. I placed it on my desk to start testing, but then I noticed it had a handle for hanging it. Since I have a hook right on the side wall, I put it there so the air wouldn't get too close to me. You can also hang it with a sticker or something similar, but it's not included.

What I liked most was that it was almost silent. It's inaudible on its first two speeds, and on the third—and highest—speed, it emits a sound that isn't bothersome. I often mistook it for the sound of my laptop. In fact, one night I placed it on my bedside table until the battery ran out. It operates with a dual power source: you can use it with the included USB cable or with the rechargeable battery. Since I hung it up or placed it up while sleeping, it was very convenient to charge it and then use it. The battery lasts about 8 hours on the first speed—enough to keep you cool if you're not particularly hot—but on the second and third speeds, the battery life drops significantly: about 3 hours on the medium speed and about 1.5 hours on the high speed. It also includes an oscillating function, so the fan moves from side to side automatically while in use, helping to distribute the air better. The room doesn't cool completely, especially in large spaces like the one I work in, but the feeling of freshness, even at the lowest speed, is more than enough.

Its weak points : Being a portable model, I missed some kind of adhesive or hook to place it in other areas of the house. Also, although its on/off button is large, being located on the back, it can be difficult to reach if the device is hanging.

Who it's for: the hottest ones.

Why we recommend it: Although it's one of the largest and heaviest desktop fans we reviewed, I was able to place it anywhere: on my desk, on my nightstand, on a sloping shelf while I worked out... All thanks to the clip included at the base, which held firmly and without wobbling on every surface I placed it on.

At the lowest speed, I thought it already offered a good amount of airflow for use while working, but its two additional settings make all the difference. At the highest speed, I would have sworn it was a larger table fan. When I used it after charging it, I also noticed its long battery life (this model can be used with a USB cable or its rechargeable battery). I was able to keep it on for the entire workday at the first speed level, as the battery lasted a full day. At the second speed level, especially useful while exercising, it lasted between 8 or 9 hours, and at the highest level—only suitable for those who are very hot—about 5 or 6 hours. And although it doesn't have automatic oscillation, another of its strong points is its head, which I could literally rotate in all directions. Its rotation allowed me to direct the air exactly where I wanted without having to move the entire fan. The sound, on the other hand, isn't its strong point, as other models like the Esvyit are quieter, but it's not bothersome either.

Its weak points: the power button is somewhat hard and is located on the back, which can be uncomfortable to press if the fan is hanging or fixed in a high place.

Who it's for: Those who work in different locations and need an easy-to-carry fan.

Why we recommend it: What caught my attention most was its aesthetic design and compact size: it fit perfectly in the palm of my hand. I found this useful both when my desk at home was full of things and there was barely any room for anything else, or when I took it to the office for a few days in my bag. Since it takes up little space and weighs just 180g, I could slip it into a small pocket without it getting in the way. This USB fan doesn't have a battery, so to use it, it must always be plugged in. Keep in mind that the cable isn't very long.

It has three speeds that can be adjusted with a single button. The first speed is barely audible, providing a gentle breeze that I appreciated on warm days. The second offers more cooling, but with a slight increase in noise, and the third speed is considerably stronger. So much so that some papers a coworker sitting next to me was blowing off the floor. The noise level also increases, and while it's not overly annoying, compared to the other models I've tested (and based on the comments of this same colleague who asked me to lower the power), I'd say it's the noisiest.

Its weak points: the air outlet angle is fixed, so if you are not standing right in front of the fan, you hardly notice the coolness.

Who it's for: It's ideal for those looking for a lightweight yet powerful fan.

Why we recommend it: Despite weighing only 181g, I was impressed by its great stability and quality of the material (even though it's plastic). During testing, it only tipped over once, and that was because I tilted it too far when adjusting the airflow direction. Since it doesn't have an oscillating function, the airflow remains fixed, and I had to manually orient the head to the position I needed at any given time. Furthermore, while it's not 360° adjustable, it does offer a variety of positions.

Its size is also one of the smallest among the fans in the comparison, which allowed me to place it in different areas of the desk, freeing up space between books, planners, and various Post-it notes. In this case, I only used it while working, as it requires a USB cable to operate, and I don't have a power bank to connect it. The air it emits can be regulated through three speeds, and given its design, I was surprised by its ability to generate more than enough airflow. However, in the first setting, I barely noticed any cooling. As for the noise, it seemed quite quiet overall, although at the highest speed it occasionally emitted certain vibrations that intensified when it was on the desk.

Its weak points: since it doesn't oscillate or can be positioned at all angles, it can be difficult to find the perfect position for air outlet from the head. Furthermore, to the touch, I found it to be one of the least durable of all those analyzed.

The Kazate model can be used as a handheld fan, a table fan, or a neck fan. When folded, it measures just 13.5 cm and weighs less than a cell phone.

The Litake lamp stands out for its multi-color LED lighting. Its eight shades change automatically, providing a decorative effect that flows with the breeze in your work or leisure space.

[Remember, if you're an Amazon Prime member, all purchases have free shipping. Amazon offers a free, no-obligation 30-day trial.]

*All purchase prices included in this article are current as of May 25, 2025.

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