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Before I started using a handheld fan, I was a total skeptic. I’d seen the ones that attach to your phone or fit in a bag, and I couldn’t imagine they’d provide any real relief from the heat—and they seemed completely unnecessary. But now that I’ve used the fans on this list, I don’t know how I was functioning without them.
There are certain scenarios where having a portable fan makes your life so much better: Outdoor concerts, weddings, festivals, amusement parks, sporting events, backyard parties. I don’t live in New York City anymore, but I could imagine having one of these on the subway would be a game changer. Despite their size, they do actually create a significant breeze—in some cases, it’s enough to stop you from getting sticky, shiny, and sweaty. If you want to make it through a ridiculously hot day without your makeup melting or pitting out, you need one of these handheld fans.
Updated June 2026: We've added new fans from Dyson, Shark, and Aecooly, removed discontinued fans, and ensured up-to-date links and prices.
Others Tested
Shark ChillPill 3-in-1 Personal Cooling System for $150: New this year, Shark's first entry into the handheld fan market looks like two stacked cylinders—one the controller, the other a tube that can variably be a regular fan, a refillable misting fan, or a metal cryo-inspired cold plate you can press to your neck or pulse points. The latter is a super-unique feature that I love, but I didn't like that you have to swap out separate attachments for each function (and carry them around in a bag if you're traveling). It's a little awkward to hold, and it also does not come with a lanyard or an easy way to carry it, which one might expect at this price point. It does, however, come in seven cool anodized-metal colors. Dyson HushJet Mini Cool for $100: With so many decent portable hand fans on the market for around $20, I'd expect great things from a fan costing $100 or more, and while this one is fine (aside from a resemblance to—I'm sorry to have to say—a worm anus), the windspeed and overall performance were only marginally better than the cheaper fans. I do like that it comes with a stand for use on a desk, though, as well as the ribbon lanyard for wearing around your neck. It also gets points for not producing a high-pitched jet-engine whine like the similarly priced Ultra2 fan above, but its performance and features are otherwise subpar in comparison.
<small>Source: Wired</small>
