Tornado 20-Inch Industrial Floor Fan

Why it stands out

Most high-velocity floor fans trade noise for airflow. Tornado's 20-inch listing claims both good numbers: 4,750 CFM on high, 4,200 on medium and 3,800 on low, with just 66 dB on the high setting. That airflow is more than many 18-inch and 20-inch floor fans manage. It comes from a fan small enough to carry by its handle and park beside a bench.

The listing describes aluminum blades, a powder-coated steel body, a rust-resistant grille and an open, air-over ball-bearing motor. A 120-degree vertical tilt lets you angle air up toward a loft or down across a work surface.

What to know before you buy

• Cord: the title gives a 6.0-foot cord, which is short. Put the fan near an outlet or use a properly rated extension.
• Specs: every figure is the listing's claim. No wattage, amperage or warranty is published.
• Speeds: the three settings are close together, so even low moves a lot of air.
• Job: it circulates air. For pulling heat out of a garage, pair it with an open door or an exhaust fan.

How it compares

• Air King 9219 roll-about: an 18-inch fan on a roll-about stand with Air King's full table: 3,190 / 2,970 / 2,660 CFM, 180 W and 67 / 58 / 49 dBA. It has less air, but documented figures and a much quieter low speed.
• Lasko 2265QM: a 20-inch floor fan that also mounts on a wall, rated at 2,500 CFM. Choose it if you want the option to get it off the floor.
• Xcity 18-inch metal floor fan: its listing claims 4,000 CFM on high and 2,580 on low, with a 360-degree tilt. It has a wider speed range and slightly less claimed air.

Bottom line

The Tornado 20-inch is a well-balanced compact floor fan: strong claimed airflow, a relatively quiet high setting and easy aiming. Buy it for garages and shops. Choose the Air King 9219 if you want manufacturer-backed numbers.