Fantastic Fan Vs MaxxAir

One of the first things I researched when building my own DIY campervan was Fantastic Fan vs MaxxAir Fan Deluxe.

Fantastic Fan is slightly more affordable, but lacks some key features which make the MaxxAir fan an overall better investment in the long haul.

In this article:

• Differences between Fantastic Fan vs MaxxAir
• Which features you need and which you can live without
• Comparison chart for different Fantastic Fan vs MaxxAir Fan models

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Fantastic Fan Vs MaxxAir Features

There’s a wide variety of models and features across both Fantastic Fans and MaxxAir fans.

The base models for both are fairly comparable. However, when you get into the higher models MaxxAir fans have more features overall.

The most prominent difference between Fantastic Fan compared to MaxxAir Fan is the ability to operate in rain. MaxxAir Fan Deluxe models can run while it’s raining outside. Unfortunately, Fantastic Fan does not make a model that can run in the rain.

NOTE: Fantastic Fan (and lower MaxxAir Fan models) include rain sensing capabilities. This means they will automatically close themselves in rain.

TIP: I also recommend adding an interior 12v fan to your van or RV. I installed this Sirocco fan with 360° rotation to help direct airflow – it’s really helpful for venting while cooking or to keep my dog cool.

Comparison Chart: Fantastic Fan Vs MaxxAir Fan

The least expensive van fan on this list is the MaxxAir 4301K model. It only has 4 speeds and lacks the ability to reverse the fan blades to intake air but for the price (<$200) it’s hard to beat.

If you compare the least expensive Fantastic Fan vs Maxxair, their base model (Fantastic Fan 1250) has recently been selling for around $250 (when it’s in stock, which is infrequently). While you only have 3 speed settings, you do get the ability to reverse the fan blades for intake or exhaust.

In my experience with my MaxxAir Fan Deluxe, 10 speed settings is more than enough. However, I think 3 settings would be too few to be able to get just the right amount of airflow.

If it’s within your budget, I recommend the MaxxAir 5100K or 7000K (which includes a remote).

They both come with 10 speeds to dial in exactly the temperature you want, reversible fan blades, a programmable thermostat to turn on/off at designed temperatures and can run in the rain.

After spending 4 years living in my van, I’ve used my roof fan nearly 24/7. Only having 3 speeds isn’t going to cut it, so for that reason I do not recommend the first 3 Fantastic Fan models.

The only Fantastic Fan model I might consider is 7350, but it can’t operate in the rain and the comparable MaxxAir 7000K model can and costs over $100 less.

TIP: If you plan on parking or storing your RV or van for prolonged periods of time, having a roof vent fan that can remain open (even if it’s not on) can help hot air vent out and keep the interior cooler which put less stress on other expensive appliances, like 12v refrigerators.

Manufacturers Warranty: Fantastic Fan Vs MaxxAir

When it comes to manufacturers warranty, there’s a clear winner between Fantastic Fan vs MaxxAir. This is just about the only category I’d say Fantastic Fan comes out ahead in.

Fantastic Fans come with a 7-year limited warranty.

MaxxAir Fans come with a 2-year warranty.

But What Do Reviewers Say About Fantastic Fan Vs MaxxAir Fan?

The majority of Fantastic Fan reviews complain about limited features and functionality. Fantastic Fan buyers often say they should have invested a little bit more and purchased the MaxxAir Fan instead. Most of the people I’ve met in real life echo this sentiment.

But it’s also worth noting that there are very few Fantastic Fan reviews which complain about poor quality.

Unfortunately, there are several MaxxAir Fan reviews which complain about the quality – specifically about circuit board failure. Most reviews say failure occurred between 18 months to 3 years after their roof vent fan installation.

This hasn’t been my experience – my MaxxAir Fan has worked great for 4+ years. I share my detailed MaxxAir Fan Deluxe review here if you’d like more information.

Which Is Better: Fantastic Fan Vs MaxxAir? (+What I Chose)

After a ton of research, I ultimately chose MaxxAir Fan Deluxe for my campervan for several reasons:

• I like that MaxxAir can operate in the rain (something Fantastic Fan cannot do)
• The remote is incredibly convenient (especially at night)
• The slight savings with Fantastic Fan wasn’t worth loosing important features

It’s been over 4 years since I installed my MaxxAir Fan Deluxe and it’s held up great! I’m really glad I chose MaxxAir over Fantastic Fan.

There’s actually no scenario when I would recommend Fantastic Fan. If you’re sticking to a tight budget I recommend MaxxAir 4301K. It’s comparable to the base model from Fantastic Fan, but it’s less expensive.

If budget isn’t a concern, or if you’re planning to be in your RV or van full-time or on extended trips then I highly recommend MaxxAir Fan Deluxe – the comfort and convenience of it is something you’ll notice on a daily basis.