Fantastic Fan vs Maxxair Fan: Which Roof Vent Fan Is Better for Your Van or RV Build?

Maxxair Vent Corp 00-06401K Maxxfan DLX Vent 12V Smoke

When you’re living in a van, RV, or camper, airflow isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. Whether it’s cooling down your rig on a hot summer day, getting rid of cooking smells, or keeping moisture at bay, a solid roof vent fan is one of the most important components in your mobile setup.

Two brands dominate the scene: the Fantastic Fan and the Maxxair Fan. But which one’s right for you?

Let’s break down the pros and cons of each so you can make an informed decision before cutting that hole in your roof.

🌬️ What Do Roof Vent Fans Actually Do?

Before we dive into the battle of the brands, here’s a quick recap of why roof vent fans matter:

  • Provide air circulation (critical in small spaces)
  • Help regulate temperature
  • Minimize condensation and moisture (especially when cooking or in cold weather)
  • Eliminate odors and stale air
  • Bring in fresh air, especially helpful if you don’t have windows that open

With that in mind, let’s compare the Fantastic Fan vs Maxxair Fan.

🔄 Fantastic Fan: The Classic Choice

✅ Pros:

  • Budget-Friendly: Fantastic Fans are typically more affordable than Maxxair, making them a popular choice for budget van builds.
  • Simple & Reliable: Easy to use with straightforward features—some models have 3-speed settings, rain sensors, and reversible airflow.
  • Good Airflow: Moves a solid amount of air—great for venting heat or pulling in cooler outdoor air.
  • Quieter Models Available: Some newer versions are surprisingly quiet.

❌ Cons:

  • No Built-In Rain Cover (on most models): You’ll need to install a separate rain hood or cover to run it during rain without water getting in.
  • Not Fully Weatherproof by Default: Running the fan in wet weather risks leaks or short-circuits unless you’ve added a protective shroud.
  • Limited Control Options: Basic models don’t offer remote control or automatic vent closing features.

🌪️ Maxxair Fan: The Premium Performer

✅ Pros:

  • Built-In Rain Shield: One of the biggest advantages—Maxxair’s signature feature is the built-in cover, which means you can run the fan rain or shine, no extra parts needed.
  • Advanced Controls: Most models come with remote controls, thermostats, automatic opening/closing lids, and 10-speed settings for precise airflow control.
  • Whisper Quiet: Known for being quieter than most fans on lower settings—great for sleeping or stealth camping.
  • Reversible Airflow: Can push air out or pull fresh air in depending on your needs.

❌ Cons:

  • More Expensive: You’ll definitely pay a premium—Maxxair fans cost more than Fantastic Fans, especially the high-end models like the MaxxFan Deluxe.
  • Complex Installation: Slightly more involved install due to extra features like the motorized lid and larger housing.
  • Bigger Profile: Takes up more space on your roof and is more visible from the outside, which can be a factor for stealth campers.

⚖️ Which Fan Is Right for You?

It all comes down to your needs, budget, and build style.

FeatureFantastic FanMaxxair Fan
Price✅ More affordable❌ More expensive
Built-in Rain Protection❌ No (unless added separately)✅ Yes
Airflow✅ Solid performance✅ Excellent performance
Noise Level⚠️ Depends on model✅ Very quiet
Remote & Thermostat❌ Basic models only✅ Most models include
Ease of Install✅ Easier install⚠️ Slightly more complex
Best ForBudget builds, part-timersFull-timers, all-weather travelers
Fan-Tastic Vent

💡 Final Thoughts

  • Go with the Fantastic Fan if you’re looking for a reliable, budget-friendly fan and you don’t mind installing a separate rain hood.
  • Choose the Maxxair Fan if you want the best performance, all-weather capability, and advanced features in one package.

Either fan will improve your van life experience dramatically—you’ll be cooler, comfier, and cleaner with proper airflow.

  • Fan Speed: 4 Speed
  • Lid Opening: Manual
  • Controls at Ceiling
  • Exhaust Only
  • Built-in Rain Shield

Maxxair Vent Corp

Fan-Tastic Vent RV Roof Vent, 3-Speed Manual Crank RV Vent Fan
  • MODEL 1200 – This lightweight, compact, and durable vent fan seals tight when not in use. Powerful 12 in, 10-blade fan quickly moves air in and out of cabin.
  • THREE-SPEED FAN – The core of this truly fantastic ventilation solution is a high performance rotary fan that features three blade speeds; low, medium, and high.
  • EASY TO USE – The manual lift dome ensures the FanTastic Vent is easy to use.
  • PERFECT FIT – Fits standard 14 inch x 14 inch openings. White, high profile base and smoke dome.

Fan-Tastic Vent RV Roof Vent, 3-Speed Manual Crank RV Vent Fan, Smoke Dome RV Vent Cover – 1200 Series – White

Fan-Tastic Vent RV Roof

5.0 out of 5 stars Let me start by saying the fan portion is great. It moves a lot of airReviewed in the United States on March 19, 2018Size: 1200Verified PurchaseUpdate 6/21/2019 The flange issue was my fault and has been corrected.
Now for some real meat, I live in Texas and it is hot here. I turned the fan on last summer in June and let it run until sometime in September. We used the fan all winter camping and now it is on again and will be on till September.

Let me start by saying the fan portion is great. It moves a lot of air. Now to the reason I only am giving 2 stars. The flange that mounts to the ceiling inside my 5th wheel is not tall enough to marry up into the slotted sides of the fan housing. I do not believe my 5th wheel is unique. There is a small amount of insulation between the ceiling and the roof.
If you opt to purchase this product measure the distance from your inner ceiling to the roof line then add about 3/8 of and inch.65 people found this helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars Don’t put it off.Reviewed in the United States on July 16, 2015Size: 3350Verified PurchaseDuring the ownership of several motor homes, I always lusted for a Fan-Tastic vent but never managed to turn loose of the cash. After a recent purchase of a used motor home I discovered a cracked vent and decided to spring for the deluxe rather than another basic. It took the same amount of effort to replace either. Why did I deny myself for so long? Multi-speed, bi-directional, power raise, and thermostatic shutoff. What else could one want? Rain sensor shut-off of course. I’m crazy about this fan. On a cool night you can set the t-stat to turn off the fan when the temp drops too low. The huge quiet multi-bladed fan blade is a welcome change from the little high-speed fan that is usually found in RVs. I really wonder if those actually move any air or do they just sound like it. LOL Exhaust flow can be selected to remove the hot air from the ceiling region or pull in air from an open window. Reverse the flow and deluge the area with cool outside air in the Spring and Fall. Of course the fan can be turned off and with the vent raised and it can provide an opening for makeup air to supply the need of the range vent. As I recently witnessed, the rain sensor really works well as my FanTastic shut itself down after only the first few sprinkles of a rain shower.

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