Our Humidifier Testing Results: Top Recommendations

Top Choice for Ultrasonic Models

The Miko Myst Ultrasonic Humidifier excels in every aspect of a top-tier humidifier: it’s efficient, adaptable, and user-friendly. We were impressed by the array of features in this compact device, such as its impressive 40-hour runtime, customizable LED lighting, and a built-in humidistat to monitor room humidity. The multiple modes—sleep, auto, light, and even meditation—added to its versatility. Additionally, the timer allows you to set it for durations ranging from two to 12 hours.

This model’s powerful performance stood out, especially on its highest setting. After running it for several hours in a closed room, condensation formed on the remote. Its low setting was equally impressive, boosting our room’s humidity by 11% in just a few hours. While it remained relatively quiet on the lowest setting, medium and high settings produced a constant whirring sound. Although we found the noise calming, those seeking a quieter experience might want to explore other options. 

The water tank’s handle made transporting it between rooms effortless. Its setup is incredibly user-friendly—the clear window allows for easy monitoring of water levels, and the top-fill design ensures a mess-free refill. With its robust performance, intuitive design, and multiple settings, this humidifier is a standout choice.

Type: Ultrasonic | Size: 540 square feet | Weight: 5.5 pounds | Water Tank Capacity: 4.5 gallons | Runtime: 40 hours | Essential Oil Tray: Yes

Top Pick for Evaporative Models

Evaporative humidifiers, unlike ultrasonic ones, utilize a damp filter and fan to evenly disperse cool mist across the room. After using the Honeywell Cool Moisture in a small bedroom for eight hours nightly, we observed a humidity increase of 33% on high and 24% on low settings. It lasted two to three nights before needing a water refill.

Despite having an internal fan, this model was remarkably quiet, emitting only a soft, unobtrusive sound. We particularly appreciated that all water-contact components are dishwasher-safe, ensuring easy cleaning and low upkeep. The water tank was simple to detach and refill at the sink. However, replacing the filter was slightly cumbersome, as it must be changed every 30 to 60 days, depending on water type.

Even as an affordable choice, the Honeywell doesn’t compromise on durability. After six months of regular use, it remains in excellent condition.

Type: Evaporative | Weight: 9.4 pounds | Water Tank Capacity: 1.1 gallons | Run Time: 24 hours | Essential Oil Tray: No

Top Budget Pick

While humidifiers can often come with a hefty price tag, the Levoit Top Filled Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier demonstrates that affordability doesn’t mean compromising on quality. With a single setting, it lacks the advanced features of pricier models, but we appreciated the low, non-intrusive brightness level. Its gentle LED nightlight is ideal for bedrooms or nurseries, and for those who prefer complete darkness, the nightlight can be turned off. 

The low setting wasn’t particularly powerful—it took roughly 15 minutes to notice its effects—but the high setting delivered significantly more output. However, its sizable design can make finding a suitable spot challenging, especially with regular use. 

We found it incredibly user-friendly and easy to maintain. Its simple design features just a knob for adjusting the power setting. The transparent water tank allowed for easy water level monitoring, the filter was simple to replace, and the wide top-fill design ensured spill-free refills. If you’re looking for a straightforward, no-nonsense humidifier, this model is an excellent value. 

Type: Ultrasonic | Size: 290 square feet | Weight: 3 pounds | Water Tank Capacity: 0.8 gallons | Run Time: 25 hr | Essential Oil Tray: Yes

Top Portable Pick

Whether you’re embarking on an extended vacation or a quick weekend trip, the Canopy Portable Humidifier is a must-have. It’s an excellent choice for travelers (TSA-approved for carry-on luggage) or anyone seeking a compact, space-efficient humidifier. Say goodbye to dry airplane air—just remember to empty the water tank before passing through TSA checkpoints.

Its compact and stylish design makes it perfect for small spaces like bedrooms, office desks, or travel, and its near-silent operation ensures it won’t disturb others in public areas. We also appreciate its compatibility with essential oils, including a ceramic stone for aromatherapy. Additionally, the steel filter, water tank, and tank cap are all dishwasher-safe. The only downside? The water level isn’t visible, so you’ll need to keep an eye on when it requires a refill. 

It offers three mist settings, from low to high. Despite its small size, the output is surprisingly strong, though it won’t significantly impact humidity in larger rooms. While it’s not suited for extensive humidification, its portability, quiet performance, and aromatherapy features make it a great companion for vacations and road trips. 

Type: Hybrid | Size: Travel size | Weight: 0.4 pounds | Water Tank Capacity: 0.13 gallons | Run Time: 11 hr | Essential Oil Tray: Yes

Top Smart Pick

If you’re seeking a high-tech, customizable humidifier, the Levoit OasisMist is an excellent choice. Its smartphone app lets you adjust mist levels, set schedules and timers, and monitor performance from anywhere. It also features an auto mode that maintains optimal humidity levels between 40% and 60%. Additionally, it integrates seamlessly with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. 

During our tests, the humidifier proved highly effective across all settings. You can switch between low, medium, and high settings by pressing the mist button—one light for low and three lights for high. Initially, we had to sit about 2 feet away to notice the moisture output.

However, during our four- and eight-hour evaluations, the difference was noticeable as soon as we entered the room. On the highest setting, it operated for approximately 12 hours before requiring a refill, making it ideal for uninterrupted overnight use. It also supports the use of essential oils. 

Cleaning was relatively simple, and the detachable tank with a handle ensured easy, spill-free refills. We did observe some residue buildup around the base where water drains into the unit, but regular cleaning addressed the issue.

After six months, the Levoit OasisMist has become an essential part of our nightly routine. We particularly appreciate its subtle presence—its compact design and quiet operation make it easy to forget it’s running, except for the visible mist. With its modern design and smart capabilities, it’s an excellent choice for those with busy lifestyles. 

Type: Ultrasonic | Size: 430 square feet | Weight: 5.3 pounds | Water Tank Capacity: 1.18 gallons | Run Time: 45 hours | Essential Oil Tray: Yes

Top Facial Pick

For those seeking a personal humidifier to enhance skin hydration, the Hey Dewy Wireless Facial Humidifier is an excellent option. Its small, lightweight design makes it easy to carry to your desk, bedroom, or even during commutes (it fits most cup holders). It operates quietly, even at higher settings, emitting only a soft hum. 

Overall, this humidifier is incredibly low maintenance. Since it works well with tap water, refilling is convenient almost anywhere. The clear tank window and backlight make monitoring water levels effortless. Cleaning is quick and simple—just rinse with mild soap and water, similar to washing a cup. Over time, we noticed some residue around the nozzle, but a cotton swab easily removed it. Even after six months of use, it continues to perform exceptionally well.  

Despite its compact size, this humidifier offers an impressive runtime of about eight hours on continuous mode. However, it requires four hours to fully charge, so planning ahead is essential. The intermittent setting, which we found slightly stronger (and noisier) than the continuous mode, is another option. While not suitable for larger spaces, its portability, tap water compatibility, and long battery life make it an ideal personal humidifier. 

Type: Ultrasonic | Size: Travel size | Weight: 0.78 pounds | Water Tank Capacity: 0.03 gallons | Run Time: 8 hours | Essential Oil Tray: No

Final Recommendation

Our top pick for an ultrasonic humidifier is the Miko Myst, thanks to its powerful performance, extended runtime, and versatile settings, including a meditation mode. For an evaporative option, we suggest the Honeywell Cool Moisture Humidifier, which performs well on both high and low settings.

Our Testing Methodology

We rigorously tested 56 top-rated humidifiers in both lab and home environments to identify the best options. First, we assessed the setup process by timing how long it took to assemble each unit straight out of the box. We also filled the water tanks to capacity with distilled water, noting their weight when full. 

With the tanks filled, we measured each humidifier’s effectiveness by running them continuously for eight hours on both high and low settings. Using a hygrometer, we recorded the room’s humidity levels before and after operation. We also monitored noise levels, checking for any humming, whistling, or crackling sounds. After testing, we inspected the surrounding area for leaks or puddles. 

We evaluated the design and size of each humidifier, considering how well it blends into its environment, its footprint, cord length, display usability, smart features, water tank capacity, runtime, and more.

After each test, we emptied and cleaned the tanks, assessing ease of cleaning and whether they were dishwasher-safe. Finally, we rated each humidifier’s overall value, determining if its performance justified the price. Following lab testing, we used the humidifiers at home for six months to evaluate their durability and performance in daily use.

Expert Tips for Buying Humidifiers

Type

Humidifiers primarily come in two types: cool mist and warm mist. Warm mist humidifiers boil water and emit steam, making them perfect for colder seasons. However, they need more frequent cleaning and can pose risks in homes with children or pets. Cool mist humidifiers, meanwhile, disperse room-temperature mist into the air. 

Cool mist humidifiers come in two main types: evaporative and ultrasonic. Evaporative humidifiers use a fan to evaporate water through a moistened filter, which can make them slightly noisier. However, they are more energy-efficient and self-regulating—humidity levels naturally decrease as room humidity rises. Ultrasonic humidifiers use a vibrating diaphragm to create a fine mist, operating more quietly and without the need for a filter.

Size & Capacity

When selecting a humidifier, the 'size specification' indicates the maximum room size it can effectively humidify, while the capacity—measured in milliliters, liters, or gallons—refers to the water tank size. Larger rooms typically require a humidifier with a bigger tank. While tank capacity doesn’t directly impact runtime, it determines how frequently you’ll need to refill it.

Noise Level

Noise level is a key factor to consider, depending on when and where you plan to use your humidifier. For office or bedroom use, especially overnight, opt for a model that operates quietly. Ultrasonic humidifiers are generally the quietest, while evaporative models can be noisier due to their built-in fans. 

Noise levels often vary with settings—higher settings tend to produce more sound. Additionally, irregular noises like dripping or intermittent misting can be more noticeable. Continuous settings, however, often blend into the background as white noise. Typically, a noise level of 30 to 40 decibels offers a soft, unobtrusive hum.

Cleanup

Maintenance requirements vary by humidifier, and manufacturers provide specific care instructions. Typically, you should clean your humidifier weekly and change the water regularly to prevent mold and bacteria growth. The frequency may vary based on usage. Some models include a sanitization feature to simplify this process. If storing or using the humidifier infrequently, ensure it’s emptied and cleaned before storage.

Humidistat

Certain humidifiers feature a built-in humidistat to detect and monitor room humidity levels. The EPA recommends maintaining indoor humidity between 30% and 50%. Many models also offer auto settings, which detect humidity and adjust output automatically to maintain optimal levels.

Additional Humidifiers to Explore

Clorox Easy Clean Humidifier: This humidifier was simple to set up, use, and clean, and it significantly increased humidity across all settings. However, we noticed some residue when using tap water and occasional dripping sounds. 

Crane Cool Mist Top Load Humidifier and Aroma Diffuser: With its large tank capacity and strong output, the Crane Cool Mist humidifier is ideal for larger spaces. We also liked its user-friendly operation and auto mode, which maintained optimal humidity levels. However, it was somewhat heavy and challenging to clean.

Trust Our Expertise

Authored by Jamie Fischer, a contributor to Mytour specializing in home, lifestyle, and cleaning products, this article also features insights from Nicole M. LaMarco, a seasoned writer with two decades of experience. Her work has appeared in prominent publications such as Yahoo, Shape, Health, and Forbes. Our team rigorously evaluated 56 ultrasonic and evaporative humidifiers over six months, assessing their performance, noise levels, design, and aesthetic appeal to curate the top picks for this list.