BEST OVERALL

Akicon 2-Sones Bathroom Exhaust Fan

Credit: Lowe's

Why You Should Get It

• It has a modern design that blends in nicely on the ceiling, and it includes multiple lighting options.

Keep in Mind

• You may want to have this model professionally installed.

We loved the modern design of the Akicon exhaust fan, which looks like a regular light fixture, so it blends in nicely on the ceiling.

The exhaust fan also features an adjustable light and a night-light to brighten your bathroom. The light is dimmable and has three color temperature options, while the night-light has a yellow and a blue setting to create the ideal ambiance in your bathroom.

With an airflow capacity of 110 cfm, the fan is effective at ventilating the air and removing odors for bathrooms up to 100 square feet. It cleared the steam off of our bathroom mirror in less than a minute during testing. When we turned the fan on before taking a shower, it prevented any moisture from building up on the mirror at all.

Although it was audible while operating, we thought the fan was relatively quiet. You can also rely on the durability of the fan, which is housed in rust-resistant metal and built to withstand moisture.

We installed the exhaust fan ourselves, and we thought the instructions were clear and easy to understand. However, the wiring and overall installation is a bit tricky since it uses a three-way switch for the fan, light, and night-light. We also had to purchase several parts in order to install it. Unless you have advanced DIY skills, we think most people would prefer to have the fan installed by a professional.

Product Details: CFM: 110 | Features: Adjustable light, night-light | Mounting Type: Ceiling

• Credit: Better Homes & Gardens
• Credit: Better Homes & Gardens
• Credit: Better Homes & Gardens
• Credit: Better Homes & Gardens
• Credit: Better Homes & Gardens

Key Terms to Know

• Cfm: Cfm stands for cubic feet per minute. It measures the fan’s airflow capacity, or how fast it can circulate air throughout a given space. The higher the number the more powerful the fan. 
• Sones: If you’re worried about your bathroom fan being too noisy, check the sones before purchasing. Sones are measurements of sound level. Anything under two sones is considered to be quiet.
• Mounting Type: Keep in mind that not all bathroom exhaust fans have the same mounting or installation type. Some models are designed to mount onto the ceiling, while others mount vertically onto the wall.

BEST BUDGET

Broan-NuTone Fan and Light Combo

Credit: Amazon

Why You Should Get It

• The fan is easy to install and includes a light socket.

Keep in Mind

• You might need a higher cfm speed for the size of your bathroom.

Broan-NuTone is a brand you can count on, and this option is budget-friendly while offering the same reliability of more expensive options.

The 50-cfm fan is recommended for rooms up to 45 square feet, so it’s ideal for small or mid-size bathrooms. We installed it in a 45-square-foot bathroom with no windows, and it was extremely effective at clearing steam and odors.

During testing, it actively prevented fog from developing on our bathroom mirror while we took a hot shower. We also noticed that the bathroom never felt damp because the fan worked quickly to clear any humidity.

Installing the fan was quick and easy using the provided installation guide, which includes step-by-step instructions with helpful diagrams and pictures. We think most people would be able to install the fan themselves.

The fan even includes a lighting feature to brighten your bathroom. With a built-in light socket, you can screw in any A19 lightbulb up to 100 watts.

Running at 2.5 sones, the fan is relatively quiet while still providing a bit of subtle noise to drown out sounds in the bathroom.

While the fan worked well for our 45-square-foot bathroom, you may need to upgrade to one of the higher-cfm options if you have a larger bathroom. Luckily, the same model is available with an airflow speed of 80 cfm for more powerful ventilation.

Product Details: CFM: 50 | Features: Light | Mounting Type: Ceiling

• Credit: Better Homes & Gardens
• Credit: Better Homes & Gardens
• Credit: Better Homes & Gardens
• Credit: Better Homes & Gardens
• Credit: Better Homes & Gardens

BEST QUIET

Panasonic Whisper Choice DC Pick-A-Flow Bathroom Fan

Credit: Home Depot

Why You Should Get It

• The fan is virtually silent while operating and has two speed settings to fit different bathroom sizes.

Keep in Mind

• It doesn’t include a built-in light.

It can be difficult to find an exhaust fan that is both effective and quiet. The Panasonic Whisper Choice DC Pick-A-Flow Exhaust fan is just that—true to its name, the fan is exceptionally quiet and effective at clearing humidity in any bathroom.

The unit is ideal for both small and large bathrooms because it features an adjustable airflow that can be set to 80 or 110 cfm. 

Operating at just 0.3 sones at 80 cfm, the fan is nearly silent. Even the stronger fan speed of 110-cfm is quiet, operating at 0.5 sones. We found the fan to be practically silent even at the fastest fan speed. It was so quiet during testing that we could hardly even tell when it was turned on.

Although it is quiet, the exhaust fan does its job to prevent and clear humidity from the air. After a hot shower, our bathroom mirror wasn’t fogged, and moisture in the room dissipated quickly.

The fan is also Energy Star certified, which helps to save you money on your energy bill. The only downside to this fan is that it doesn’t include a built-in light or any other special features. However, we think it’s a great option if you prefer a basic fan that is quiet and effective.

Product Details: CFM: 80 and 110 | Features: Adjustable airflow | Mounting Type: Ceiling

• Credit: Better Homes & Gardens
• Credit: Better Homes & Gardens
• Credit: Better Homes & Gardens
• Credit: Better Homes & Gardens
• Credit: Better Homes & Gardens

BEST ADJUSTABLE SPEED

AeroPure Sones Fan with LED Light

Credit: AeroPure Fans

Why You Should Get It

• It’s energy efficient and features three speed settings to effectively ventilate any size bathroom.

Keep in Mind

• The fan takes about 20 seconds to ramp up after turning it on.

Although it’s a bit more expensive than other models, we think this AeroPure exhaust fan is worth the investment. Featuring an energy-efficient motor, the exhaust fan is Energy Star certified to reduce your energy consumption and save you money in the long run.

We thought the fan effectively removed steam and odors from our bathroom during testing. After turning on the fan, we could hardly feel any humidity in the room.

Once we removed our old exhaust fan, installing this fan was a breeze. The unit even comes with a built-in LED light and a night-light to brighten up the bathroom.

With a built-in airflow selector that allows you to adjust between 50, 80, or 110 cfm, the exhaust fan is ideal for most bathroom sizes. The fan is also whisper-quiet, even on the highest speed setting.

During testing, we noticed that the fan had a slight delay between when we turned it on and when it started working. While the delay didn’t bother us, keep in mind that it may take about 20 seconds for the fan to ramp up after turning it on.

Product Details: CFM: 50, 80, and 110 | Features: Light, adjustable airflow | Mounting Type: Ceiling

• Credit: Better Homes & Gardens
• Credit: Better Homes & Gardens
• Credit: Better Homes & Gardens
• Credit: Better Homes & Gardens

EASIEST TO INSTALL

Broan-NuTone Single-Speed Ventilation Fan

Credit: Amazon

Why You Should Get It

• The exhaust fan effectively removed moisture and odors, even in a large 100-square-foot bathroom.

Keep in Mind

• It’s slightly louder than most of our other picks.

If you’re planning a DIY installation for your new bathroom exhaust fan, it’s crucial to pick a unit that’s easy to install. The Broan-NuTone AE110 Ventilation Fan has a straightforward retrofit installation process, and it doesn’t even require access to your attic.

With a simple on/off switch and no extra features like lighting, the exhaust fan was easy to use and install during testing. We found the installation instructions to be clear and easy to understand. The box even suggests which tools you will need for installation, including a hammer, drywall saw, and screwdriver. The only extra parts we needed were two wire connectors.

The fan has an airflow speed of 110 cfm to ventilate and remove odors even in large bathrooms. We used the unit in a 100-square-foot bathroom, and it was impressively effective at removing moisture and odors. 

It even eliminated condensation on our bathroom windows and mirrors, making it ideal for keeping moisture at bay after a hot shower.

We noticed the fan was a bit louder while operating than most of the other models on our list. However, it wasn’t loud enough to disturb us, so we thought this was a small price to pay for how effective it was at ventilating the bathroom.

Product Details: CFM: 110 | Features: Roomside installation | Mounting Type: Ceiling

• Credit: Better Homes & Gardens
• Credit: Better Homes & Gardens
• Credit: Better Homes & Gardens
• Credit: Better Homes & Gardens
• Credit: Better Homes & Gardens

The Bottom Line

After testing 10 bathroom exhaust fans in our own homes, we chose the Akicon 2-Sones 110-CFM Black Decorative Lighted Bathroom Ventilator Fan as the best bathroom exhaust fan overall for its effective ventilation and quiet operation. For a more affordable option, we also love the Broan-NuTone 678 Ventilation Fan for its easy installation and included light socket.

Our Testing Process

To find the best bathroom exhaust fans, we installed and tested 10 different models in our own homes. We used the exhaust fan any time we experienced moisture or odors in the bathroom, like during a hot shower or after using the toilet.

If we installed the exhaust fan ourselves, we noted how easy it was to install and if there were any extra parts or tools needed for installation.

We used each exhaust fan for several weeks, assessing the overall effectiveness and design of each option. While using the fan, we noted the noise level and if it was subtle or loud while operating.

Most importantly, we tested how well and how quickly the exhaust fans circulated air in the bathroom. Each time we used them, we assessed if the fans could effectively ventilate the space to remove moisture and odors. We also noted the controls on each exhaust fan and how easy they were to operate.

Finally, we tested any special features on the exhaust fan like adjustable airflow, built-in lighting, heaters, or humidity sensors. Then, we compared the overall performance of each option to choose the five best bathroom exhaust fans for your home.

What to Know About Bathroom Exhaust Fans Before Shopping

CFM

Cfm stands for cubic feet per minute. It measures the fan’s airflow capacity, or how fast it can circulate air throughout a space. Fans with a higher cfm are more powerful and may be louder than fans with a lower cfm. While shopping, check the sones (the measurement of the sound level) of the fan if you are worried about it being too noisy. Anything under two sones is considered to be quiet.

Features

While you don’t need to purchase a bathroom exhaust fan with any special features, they can help enhance your bathroom. Bathroom exhaust fans offer a variety of features, like Bluetooth speakers, built-in lighting, heaters, timers, or humidity detection.

Lights are some of the most common features, and additional lighting can help brighten your bathroom without adding much expense. Humidity sensors can make it easier to use your exhaust fan because it will turn on automatically when it detects high humidity. Adjustable airflow is also a common feature that may be useful if you need the option for stronger airflow.

Mounting Type

Most bathroom exhaust fans are designed to mount onto the ceiling, while others mount vertically onto the wall. Check the specifications of the product before purchasing to ensure you can install it in your bathroom.

Whether you choose a wall or ceiling-mounted option depends on personal preference and the layout of your bathroom. Wall-mounted units are typically easier to install, and they are better for bathrooms with low ceilings.

Other Bathroom Exhaust Fans We Tested

Panasonic WhisperChoice DC Exhaust Fan

True to its name, the Panasonic WhisperChoice DC Exhaust Fan was exceptionally quiet during testing. We found it to be extremely effective at removing moisture and odors from our bathroom, even after a long, hot shower. The fan also has a larger size that is suitable for bathrooms up to 150 square feet. Our only issue was that the fan required some complicated wiring during installation, so it may need to be installed by a professional. However, we still think it’s a good option overall, especially if you can buy it on sale.

Broan NuTone 80 CFM Ceiling Bathroom Exhaust Fan with Light

We appreciated the built-in light and low-profile design of the Broan NuTone 80 CFM Bathroom Exhaust Fan. During testing, we found that it was effective at removing humidity and odors from small bathrooms. However, it was challenging for us to install it, and we had to purchase mounting brackets separately in order to finish installation.

OREiN Bathroom Exhaust Fan with Light

The OREiN Bathroom Exhaust Fan has a sleek design and a bright LED light that brightened up our bathroom during testing. We loved that the fan operated quietly and could easily remove moisture from our bathroom mirror after a shower. However, we noticed that it wasn’t as effective at removing odors.

Delta Breeze GreenBuilder Exhaust Ventilation Bath Fan

During testing, we were shocked by how quiet the Delta Breeze GreenBuilder Exhaust Ventilation Bath Fan operated. It was barely audible, even with the bathroom door closed. We also appreciated the built-in humidity sensor and adjustable fan speed. While these features were nice additions, they required extra wiring and an additional switch. We also noticed condensation dripping from the fan onto the bathroom floor, which was a dealbreaker since the fan didn’t remove moisture as well as we expected.

Your Questions, Answered

Can you install a bathroom exhaust fan yourself?

While you can install a bathroom exhaust fan yourself, it’s easier to replace an existing fan than install a new one. “Installing an exhaust fan can be a DIY project, but it can definitely be tricky, especially if it’s a new installation,” says Lozano.

A new installation involves running wiring to the unit and switch, cutting a hole in the ceiling for the fan box, and putting in ductwork to go to the roof or a side of your home. If you aren’t experienced with DIY electrical work, we recommend hiring a professional to ensure the exhaust fan is installed properly.

Do you need an exhaust fan in your bathroom?

An exhaust fan is important to ensure you reduce moisture in your bathroom. Otherwise, you may develop mold or mildew that is hard to remove down the line.

Bathrooms without a window or other type of ventilation are especially susceptible to excess moisture, so it’s essential to install an exhaust fan to prevent mold before it develops. Exhaust fans will also help improve indoor air quality and remove unpleasant bathroom odors.

How much does a bathroom exhaust fan cost?

The price of a bathroom exhaust fan depends on its features and the unit’s cfm. The higher the cfm, the more the unit will cost. You may also pay a premium for special features like adjustable airflow, lights, a heater, or humidity sensors. 

Generally, you can expect to pay between $50 and $200 for a bathroom exhaust fan, depending on the size and features you need for your bathroom. The Broan-NuTone 678 Ventilation Fan and Light is the most affordable on our list, costing about $50 at the time of publication. The most expensive fan we recommend is the AeroPure ABFS0511DL6 Sones Slim Fit Fan, which cost $228 at the time of publication.

Who We Are

Molly Blanco is a senior writer for Better Homes & Gardens. For this article, she referenced testing insights from our expert testers who installed and used these bathroom exhaust fans in their own homes. We also consulted Chris Lozano, electrical expert at Frontdoor, about what to look for when shopping for a bathroom exhaust fan.