Best Budget-Friendly: Honeywell Ceiling Fans 51459-01 Carnegie Ceiling Fan

Yes, smartphone-controlled ceiling fans can get rather pricey. But there is good news: this Honeywell model is both a reader favorite and easy on the wallet. We liked the good airflow and compatibility with Alexa and Google Home.

Here’s more:

What We Liked

• Easy to use remote.

• 3 colors.

• Impressive airflow.

• Can be flush mounted without downrod.

• Works with Alexa and Google Home.

What Needs Work

• Installation can be challenging (follow those instructions)!

• Louder than other fans we tested.

• Requires bridge accessory (Bond) to work with smartphone control. This connects the fan’s infrared controller to your home WiFi. It’s simple to set up, in our experience.

Best Indoor/Outdoor: SMAAIR 52 Inch Smart Ceiling Fan with Lights and 10-cpeed DC Motor

We know many of our readers wish to install a ceiling on a patio or screened porch, but not all smart ceiling fans are “damp rated.” This one covers both bases: it can be installed indoors or out and connects via your WiFi to work with Alexa, Google or Siri.

What We Liked

• Easy to install.

• Connects directly to WiFi—no bridge required.

• Quiet.

• Voice control.

• Works outdoors or indoors.

What Needs Work

• Pricey.

Best Tried & True Brand: Minka Aire F868L-WHF Sleek – LED 60 Inch Ceiling Fan

This is one of our favorite ceiling fan brands—we’ve had a Minka Aire fan in our master bedroom for several years, and it works well (and is very quiet). And yes, this brand also makes a smart ceiling fan version of their popular sleek fan: the F868L is impressive.

Here’s more:

What We Liked

• Pairs with Alexa, Google Home, Nest and Ecobee.

• Free app for iOS or Android.

• Includes light kit.

• Sleek design.

• Easy hook up to home WiFi.

• Quiet.

• Easy installation.

What Needs Work

• Pricey—especially since the blades are plastic.

Why Trust Us

We’ve been rating and reviewing products for the home and families since 1994. We do extensive research, evaluating products with an eye toward quality, ease of use and affordability. When we purchase a product for hands-on testing, we do so with our own money. 

Here’s another key point: we don’t take money from the brands we review. No free samples, no sponsors, no “partnerships.” Our work is 100% reader-supported!