Neck fans have gone from novelty to summer essential across Australia. You'll see them on dog walkers, gardeners, commuters, cooks and parents at Saturday sport. But they're not all the same, and the cheapest one isn't always the best buy. Here's what actually matters when you choose one.
1. Bladeless or bladed?
Older neck fans have two small propeller fans facing your face. They work, but long hair can get caught in the blades. Bladeless neck fans pull air in through the sides and push it out through slots along the arms, so there's nothing for hair to tangle in. If you have long hair, or you're buying for a kid, go bladeless.
2. Where the air comes out
Look for vents along the whole length of both arms. That way air hits the sides and back of your neck as well as your face, which is where you feel the heat most. A fan that only blows straight up at your chin feels weaker than its speed setting suggests.
3. Battery and charging
- USB charging is a must: you can top it up from a power bank, laptop or car charger.
- A battery display saves you from the fan dying halfway through a walk.
- Run time always depends on the speed: low speed lasts much longer than max. Be wary of any claim that sounds too good, and charge it fully before a long day out.
4. Weight and comfort
You're wearing it on your shoulders, so lighter is better. A flexible band that adjusts to your neck stops it from sliding around when you walk or bend down.
5. Noise
Every fan makes some noise, and a neck fan is right next to your ears. Several speed settings let you pick a quiet low speed for the office or bus and a stronger one when you're moving.
6. Know its limits
A neck fan moves the air around you. On a dry 30-something day that breeze feels great. On a still, 40-degree afternoon it's moving hot air, so it helps less. On the hottest days, pair it with water, shade and something that cools by evaporation, like a damp cooling towel or a mist fan.
Quick checklist
- Bladeless design
- Vents along both arms
- USB rechargeable with a battery display
- Several speeds
- Light and comfortable band
Our pick: the IcyMate Bladeless Neck Fan ticks every box on the list: bladeless, vents on both arms, LED battery display, adjustable speeds and USB charging, in white, navy, pink or green. Ships Australia-wide with tracking, free on orders over $39.
Still deciding? Compare all the options in our guide: neck fan vs mist fan vs cooling towel.