Things to Consider When Buying a Rechargeable Table Fan
Noise
Some people may prefer a noisy (but still pleasant) fan as a white noise generator. A small fan is good for this. It can be positioned further away to allow the diffusion of the narrow air flow.
Material
Plastic fans may seem cheap but they can be more practical. They don't rust. Stainless steel still rusts (most steel fans are only coated or chrome-plated anyway) and brass fans can also oxidise and require polishing. Metal fans are tougher and resist capsizing while plastic can break.
Removable Grid
Fans will collect dust after a few months of use. An easily removable grill is convenient. Unfortunately some fans need to be unscrewed and dismantled to reach the fan blades. Others may not be designed to be open at all. For safety, the fan must be disconnected before any cleaning.
Oscillating, rotating or fixed grid
Classic oscillating fans rotate from side to side to cover a large area.
Some models (in particular case fans) have a rotating front grille with angled slats to deflect the wind into a large cone. These take up less space and are visually less annoying. However, there will be no direct wind in front of the fan since the wind is deflected up or down in that position.
Oscillating and rotating fans can develop irritation and vibration noises, if not immediately, then possibly in a few months. An alternative is to use two or more fans. The oscillating fans can be used with the oscillation deactivated, leaving the oscillating function as "just in case".
Fan Power
Industrial fans are classified according to the amount of air they move: cubic feet per minute (CFM). Consumer fans are rarely rated this way.
The input power (watts) of the fan is an imperfect but usable indication of the wind energy of a consumer fan.
From 40 to 50 watts is on average from 80 to 100 watts approximately the maximum practical for domestic use. If not specified in the documents, the power of the fan must be labeled on the back or bottom of the fan.
Design
Box fans (window fans) are thin and can be placed on window sills to bring fresh air outside. Their slim design makes them less stable and easier to tip over.
Classic desktop fans are still good designs but can be cumbersome. Ancient designs can be dangerous if the grid is too far apart and allows your fingers to enter and touch the blades.
The squat and fat designs (floor models, but they can be placed on tables) are stable and suitable for homes with small children or pets.
The tilting models are useful for mixing the air, in particular by breaking down the heated air from the ceiling in winter.