Your Complete Desktop Fan Buying Guide

Summer time is coming, and whether you plan to sit back and unwind, or get up and seize the day, there will inevitably come the time when you need to spend your hours locked away indoors while the summer sun beats down on your abode.

On those days when you’d rather slap on the sunscreen and head outdoors, the last thing you want to do is spend your time being too hot and uncomfortable. In those tough times, a good desk fan can be a lifesaver.

In this article, we’ll show you everything you need to know about desktop fans so you can find one that suits your busy lifestyle. Keep reading to learn more… 

What makes a desk fan so great

Desk fans are a must-have for many over those lovely summer months. But if you’re on the fence about buying one, here are some of the standout features that make them so great:

They’re energy efficient

Desk fans are power-saving champs. While air conditioning units guzzle up hundreds of watts, desk fans typically uses anywhere from 20 to 50 watts. This incredible efficiency translates to significantly lower electricity bills, helping you stay cool without worrying about the cost.

They’re affordable

When it comes to upfront costs, desk fans are far more budget-friendly than air conditioning units. They offer an excellent cooling solution for anyone looking to beat the heat without splurging, making them a smart investment for households and workplaces alike.

They’re convenient

Desk fans are designed with mobility in mind. Lightweight and compact, they can be easily moved from room to room or repositioned throughout the day for optimal comfort. Rather than cooling an entire room, desk fans focus on delivering a direct stream of air to a specific area. This makes them ideal for personal comfort, providing immediate relief whether you’re at your desk, bedside table, or favourite armchair.

They’re quiet

Gone are the days of fans that rattle and hum like an old car engine. Many modern desk fans - like the Morphy Richards AIR FLEX 6” Portable Oscillating USB Fan - are designed for quiet operation, making them a perfect fit for offices, bedrooms, or any other space where peace and quiet reign supreme.

What to consider when picking a desktop fan

We get it, you’re excited to pick up a new desktop fan, but before you do, take a moment to think about the following things so you can be sure you make the right choice:

Room size

First, consider the space where you’ll be using your desk fan. Smaller fans, like the Morphy Richards AIR FLEX 6” Portable Oscillating USB Fan, do a great job at focused cooling for smaller spaces like home offices or bedrooms.

Noise

If you like to keep your bedroom cool on an evening, quiet operation is essential. Models like the AIR FLEX 6” Portable Oscillating USB Fan and AIR FLEX 6” Circulating Desktop Fan are carefully engineered to keep noise levels low, so you can focus or rest without a distracting buzz. Even the powerful AIR FLEX 9” Circulating Pedestal Fan impresses with its low-noise design, proving that you don’t have to sacrifice serenity for strength.

Airflow and speed

Not all cooling needs are created equal, which is why multiple speed settings are a must. Do you prefer a gentle breeze or a powerful airflow? For example, the AIR FLEX 6” Portable Oscillating USB Fan offers three speeds, while the AIR FLEX 9” Circulating Pedestal Fan ups the ante with a remarkable eight speed settings.

Adjustability

For targeted cooling, tilt adjustment allows you to angle the fan head where you need it most, while oscillation means that airflow is distributed across a wider area. Better yet, features like 3D automatic oscillation - found in the AIR FLEX 9” Circulating Pedestal Fan - offer an unparalleled airflow distribution to stop arguments over hogging the cool air.

Portability

Looking for something a little more travel-friendly? Don’t worry, your desk fan can help. The AIR FLEX 6” Portable Oscillating USB Fan offers USB charging and up to 17 hours of operation, making it ideal for on-the-go cooling.

Our recommendations of the best desktop fans

The time has come. Let’s look at our top recommendations for the best desktop fans:

Morphy Richards AIR FLEX 6” Portable Oscillating USB Fan

Compact, portable, and perfectly engineered for personal cooling, the AIR FLEX 6” Portable Oscillating USB Fan is an exceptional choice for anyone seeking lightweight convenience paired with robust performance.

Despite its size, this fan is every bit as functional as its larger counterparts. Its three-blade system optimises airflow while conserving energy, meaning you get that delightful cool air without draining your electricity. 

This USB desktop fan goes above and beyond with its foldable, wall-mountable design and USB charging capability. With up to 17 hours of operation from a single charge, it’s perfect for travel, compact spaces, or even your bedside table.

Adjustable 90° oscillation and vertical tilt allow you to direct airflow exactly where needed, while three speed settings mean that the cooling intensity matches your preference.

Not a fan of noise? Don’t worry. The AIR FLEX has been perfectly engineered for low noise output, making it ideal for restful sleep or quiet work environments.

A touch-sensitive panel simplifies operation, giving you control over speed, oscillation, and settings with a quick tap.

Best for - this fan is a top pick for travellers, small spaces, and anyone on the go, providing personal cooling during work, study, or sleep.

Morphy Richards AIR FLEX 6” Circulating Desktop Fan With Remote Control

Next up we have the phenomenal AIR FLEX 6” Circulating Desktop Fan. Combining style and performance, this fan is designed to be as elegant as it is effective, and is the perfect choice for those who want efficient cooling with a modern appearance.

Equipped with a high-performance air circulating motor and three aerodynamic blades, this mini desktop fan provides powerful airflow while remaining blissfully quiet, allowing you to enjoy the benefits of cool air without the persistent buzz.

With its touch-sensitive control panel and included remote, managing settings has never been easier. Whether adjusting the fan speed through the four available levels, or activating the oscillation feature, this fan is all about simplicity.

Small but mighty, the fan is designed for placement on desks, workstations, and bedside tables. With 60° oscillation and a tilt feature, airflow is directed precisely where it’s needed.

Schedule cooling cycles to fit your routine with the handy timer, making this fan even more energy-efficient.

Best for - perfect for comfortable cooling in home offices, study areas, and living spaces, allowing you to stay cool while working or relaxing.

Morphy Richards AIR FLEX 9” Circulating Pedestal Fan With Remote Control

Last of all, we have the heavy hitter. The AIR FLEX 9” Circulating Pedestal Fan combines the size and strength of a pedestal model with the flexibility of desk fan capabilities.

With an impressive eight speed settings and a touch panel control, you’ll have granular control over your comfort at all times, meaning you stay cool when you want, where you want. This fan uses an impressive 3D automatic oscillation, directing airflow both horizontally and vertically for ultimate customisation.

Featuring a powerful yet energy-efficient DC motor, this fan delivers strong airflow while consuming less energy than conventional models. It comes equipped with a remote control and a programmable timer function to optimise cooling sessions.

Despite its power, this fan operates quietly, so you get to enjoy a peaceful environment whether it’s placed in your bedroom, workspace, or living area.

Best for - those who need a powerful yet energy-efficient fan option, this fan provides more widespread personal cooling.

Enjoy the breeze with Morphy Richards

Hopefully you found this article helpful, and are fully equipped to make the call on your new desktop fan.

When you buy direct from Morphy Richards, you’ll benefit from a two-year warranty (with an extra year of warranty for free when you register your desktop fan with us).

We also offer free shipping and flexible payment options that let you spread the cost of your new purchase.  

Shop the best desktop fan now

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