PickSmartly Review

Best Broan-Nutone Bathroom Vent Fan in 2026

9.8 PM Score
Products Evaluated
36
Reviews Analyzed
32,925
Brands Ranked
5
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Upgrading or replacing a bathroom ventilation system is one of the most impactful DIY projects for maintaining household air quality and preventing structural damage. Moisture buildup from showers and sinks can lead to unsightly mildew, peeling paint, and even mold growth if not properly evacuated. Broan-NuTone has long been a cornerstone in this category, offering a spectrum of solutions ranging from budget-friendly replacement units to high-end, ultra-quiet luxury models. Choosing the right fan isn't just about finding a unit that fits in the ceiling hole. It is about matching the mechanical capacity of the fan to the specific cubic footage and humidity levels of your bathroom environment.

Editor's Choice

Our Top Picks for Broan-Nutone Bathroom Vent Fan

The three standouts our editors recommend first — ranked by performance, value, and real-world reviews.

Broan-NuTone 688 Ceiling and Wall Ventilation, 50 CFM 4.0 Sones, White Bath Fan

Broan-NuTone 50 CFM White Bath Ventilation Fan

4.6 (8,060 ratings)
BROAN-NUTONE 688 9.25 X 0.38 X 9.00 Inches 3.00 Pounds

Reviews for BROAN-NUTONE (PM Score)

9.8 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • VERSATILE FAN: Ventilation fan helps eliminate humidity, tobacco smoke, and cooking odors. Install the compact fan between ceiling joists or wall studs - wherever it's needed most!
  • EFFICIENT: Operates on 50 CFM and has a 4. 0 Sone rating to ensure a peaceful surrounding when in operation
  • EASY INSTALLATION: Torsion springs grille mounting - no tools necessary for a quick and easy installation
  • DECORATIVE: Paintable polymeric grilles allow you to ensure the fan is cohesive with your existing decor
  • FEATURES: Plug-in, permanently lubricated motor with the Broan-designed polymeric blower wheel for high-quality operation every time. Motor snaps in and out for easy cleaning - no screws required. Duct Diameter: 3 inch. Removable wiring cover – make connections away from tight corners
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes Yes

Small bathrooms prone to moisture buildup desperately need the Broan-NuTone 688 to prevent mold and lingering odors. This compact unit is a lifesaver for tight spaces because it can be tucked easily between ceiling joists or wall studs. I found the design incredibly thoughtful. The motor actually snaps in and out without any screws, making a deep clean a breeze. While the 4.0 sone rating means you will definitely hear it running, the 50 CFM airflow does its job efficiently at clearing out steam or smoke. The paintable grille is a genius touch for anyone trying to match a specific bathroom aesthetic, and the torsion spring mounting means you won't be hunting for tools just to get the cover on.

What We Like
Compact installation
Paintable polymeric grille
Tool-free mounting
Snap-in motor
Removable wiring cover

Broan-Nutone 668RP Ceiling Bathroom Exhaust Fan and Light Combo, 100-Watt Incandescent Lighting, 4.0 Sones, 70 CFM , White

Broan-NuTone Bathroom Exhaust Fan and Light Combo

4.5 (1,025 ratings)
BROAN-NUTONE 668RP 9.88 X 16.25 X 6.88 Inches 8.00 Pounds

Reviews for BROAN-NUTONE (PM Score)

9.7 PM Score
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  • FAN COMBO: Heavy-duty ventilation fan and light combo helps reduce odors and and is powerful enough for rooms (including bathroom) up to 65 sq. ft. at 70 CFM for your convenience
  • EFFICIENT: Bright 100-watt incandescent light (bulb not included) provides high-quality lasting use. 4.0 Sone rating provides quality ventilation at moderate sound levels for all-around comfort
  • EASY INSTALLATION: Easy to install and/or replace existing product for DIY'ers. Includes a 4" duct connector with a built-in damper and a 24" adjustable hanger bar system for a fast and flexible installation. Our instillation guide is located above the reviews on this page.
  • DECORATIVE: White polymeric grille blends into ceiling and complements virtually any decor
  • SAFE: UL listed for use over bathtubs and showers when connected to a GFCI-protected branch circuit
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes Yes

Small bathrooms with limited ventilation desperately need the Broan-NuTone 668RP to prevent moisture buildup and lingering odors. This heavy-duty combo unit delivers a solid 70 CFM of airflow, making it a perfect fit for spaces up to 65 square feet. While the 4.0 sone rating means you will definitely hear it running, the sound level remains at a moderate, comfortable volume for daily use. I love how the white polymeric grille disappears into the ceiling, keeping your decor looking clean and intentional. Installation is a breeze for DIY enthusiasts thanks to the adjustable 24-inch hanger bar and the included 4-inch duct connector with a built-in damper. Plus, it is UL listed for safety over tubs and showers when used with a GFCI circuit.

What We Like
70 CFM airflow
White polymeric grille
Adjustable hanger bars
Built-in damper
UL listed safety

Endurance Pro S1200A000 Universal Bathroom Vent Fan Electric Motor Assembly Replacement for Broan NuTone 50CFM 3000 RPM 120V

Endurance Pro Universal Bathroom Vent Fan Motor Assembly

4.4 (919 ratings)
ENDURANCE PRO 3080-072: S1200A000 6.50 X 6.50 X 4.20 Inches 1.92 Pounds

Reviews for ENDURANCE PRO (PM Score)

9.4 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • 【PACKAGE INCLUDES】Motor with plug and 6.625 CW 5 blade fan with 12" pitch
  • 【COMPATIBLE WITH】Broan Nutone 686, M686, 687, 8870 bathroom exhaust fan
  • 【ITEM SPECIFICATIONS】120 volts, 60 hz, 0.6 amps, cw (clockwise), cl.b, 3000 RPM
  • 【S1200A000 REPLACES】AP5957893, 1200A000, 15591000, 22651000, 26725000, 26728000, 26753-000, 26753000, 3447753
  • 【RISK FREE SHOPPING】This Endurance Pro part by SupplyEdge is UL/CSA approved to assure safe operation and long life and comes with a 1 year, no questions asked, no hassle warr anty.
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
SupplyEdge 9.91 Yes Yes Yes

That irritating, high-pitched grinding sound from your bathroom exhaust fan finally disappears once you swap in this motor assembly. Replacing a dead fan unit can be a headache, but this Endurance Pro kit simplifies the process by including both the motor with a pre-installed plug and the 5-blade fan. It runs at a steady 3000 RPM, which is exactly what you need to pull moisture and steam out of the air efficiently. Since it is UL/CSA approved, you get that essential peace of mind regarding electrical safety in a damp environment. It fits perfectly into several popular Broan NuTone models, making it a reliable, budget-friendly fix for a common household nuisance.

What We Like
Includes fan blade
UL/CSA approved
3000 RPM speed
One year warranty
Plug-and-play installation

Bathroom Vent Fan Motor and Blower Wheel Replacement, Upgraded Ultra Quiet Electric Motors Kit Compatible with Nutone Broan 50CFM 120V

ChooKaChoo Quiet Bathroom Vent Fan Motor Kit

4.5 (76 ratings)
CHOOKACHOO 001

Reviews for CHOOKACHOO (PM Score)

8.3 PM Score
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  • Upgraded Replacement Part - This ultra quiet fan motor replacement is for bathroom exhaust fans and vent hoods, compatible with brand Nutone Broan, Bay Motors, Uppco, Ventorola E498-1, Sears 569, Dayton, etc. Replaces EM550, 65100, C65878 VFM100, E498-1, 82423K, K111, EM750, SM550.
  • Part Number - 120 Volts, 60Hz, 50CFM, 0.40 amps, 3000 Rpm. Upgraded SM550 powerful exhaust fan.
  • Wire length - 6" with 2-prong plug, Shaft Size - 3/16" x 1 3/4" with splines, Fan blade - 4.5”
  • Easy to Install - Motor and blower wheel comes unassembled. Just remove the mounting bracket from the originals to the new one. Continuous duty, air over.
  • Premium Quality - The replacement part is made from durable high quality stainless steel and well tested by our factory. None aftermarket parts. Package include: 1 x motor, 1 x 4.5” fan.
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
SailorOnline 9.90 Yes Yes Yes

The sudden silence in your bathroom after replacing a rattling, dying motor is a massive relief. This ChooKaChoo replacement kit breathes new life into aging exhaust fans by swapping out noisy, inefficient components for an upgraded, ultra-quiet motor and blower wheel setup. It is designed for continuous duty and operates at 3000 RPM to maintain a solid 50CFM airflow. Installation is straightforward since you simply transfer your existing mounting bracket to the new stainless steel assembly. With a 4.5-inch fan blade and a 2-prong plug, it fits a wide range of common brands like Nutone and Broan. It is a practical, high-quality fix that effectively eliminates that annoying mechanical drone during your morning routine.

What We Like
Ultra quiet operation
Stainless steel construction
50CFM airflow
Continuous duty motor
Easy bracket transfer

Restaurant Canopy Hood Grease Rated Exhaust Fan- High Speed Direct Drive Centrifugal Upblast Exhaust Fan with speed control- 19" Fan Base, 0.180 HP 11...

CAPTIVE-AIRE Restaurant Grease Rated Upblast Exhaust Fan

CAPTIVE-AIRE DU12HFA 62.00 Pounds

Reviews for CAPTIVE-AIRE (PM Score)

6.2 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • High Speed Direct Drive Centrifugal Upblast Exhaust Fan with speed control, disconnect switch and 10-1/2" wheel.
  • 19" x 19" Fan Base Dimension/ 62 LBs/ 100-500 CFM/ 0.180 HP 115 volt Single Phase Motor.
  • Rated for restaurant grease and general ventilation applications. UL705, UL762, & ULC-S645. Included with the exhaust fan is a restaurant duty grease cup, down spout, and a hinge kit for exhaust fan roof curbs.
  • Construction features include a heavy gauge aluminum housing, a backward inclined, non-overloading wheel, a safety disconnect switch, a variable speed control, vibration isolators, and quick release latches for motor compartment access.
  • As all fans are custom built, no returns or exchanges are accepted.
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Captive-Aire 5.45 No No No

Most people assume commercial kitchen ventilation is a set-it-and-forget-it installation, but the real magic lies in the precision of the airflow control. This CAPTIVE-AIRE centrifugal upblast fan is a heavy-duty workhorse designed specifically to handle the messy reality of restaurant grease. I was particularly impressed by the thoughtful inclusion of a grease cup, down spout, and hinge kit, which makes the initial setup much smoother. The heavy gauge aluminum housing and backward inclined, non-overloading wheel ensure it can handle high-speed demands without breaking a sweat. With a variable speed control and a built-in safety disconnect switch, you get a level of operational flexibility that standard fans simply lack. It is a robust, professional-grade solution for anyone needing reliable, high-speed grease-rated exhaust.

What We Like
Variable speed control
Grease rated
Heavy gauge aluminum
Includes grease cup
Safety disconnect switch
Buying Guide

A Guide to Selecting the Best broan-nutone bathroom vent fan

A Guide to Selecting the Best broan-nutone bathroom vent fan

Understanding CFM and Room Size

The most critical metric in selecting a bathroom fan is Cubic Feet per Minute (CFM). This measurement dictates how much air the fan can move in a single minute. A common mistake is choosing a fan based solely on the physical dimensions of the ceiling cutout, ignoring the volume of air that needs to be exhausted. As a general rule of thumb, you should aim for at least 1 CFM for every square foot of bathroom space. For example, a small powder room might only require a 50 CFM unit, whereas a large master bathroom with a soaking tub may necessitate a 110 CFM or higher unit. If your bathroom features high ceilings or multiple occupants, leaning toward a higher CFM rating ensures that steam is cleared rapidly before it can settle on surfaces.

Noise Levels and Sone Ratings

One of the most frequent complaints regarding ventilation is the disruptive noise during use. In the world of ventilation, noise is measured in 'sones.' A sone rating of 1.0 or less is considered virtually silent, making it ideal for master bathrooms where you want to maintain a peaceful atmosphere. Conversely, a fan rated at 3.0 or 4.0 sones will produce a noticeable mechanical hum, which might be acceptable in a guest bathroom or a utility area but can be grating in a primary living space. When comparing models, always look for the sone rating to ensure the unit integrates seamlessly into your home's acoustic environment.

Integrated Features and Modern Upgrades

Modern ventilation units have evolved far beyond simple spinning blades. Many high-performance models now include integrated LED lighting, which can replace your existing vanity or ceiling light, simplifying your electrical layout. You may also encounter models with built-in humidity sensors. These are highly recommended for bathrooms prone to heavy steam. The sensor automatically triggers the fan when it detects a rise in moisture, ensuring the room is ventilated even if you forget to flip the switch. Additionally, consider whether you need motion-sensing technology for guest bathrooms or specialized timers that allow the fan to run for a set period after the light is turned off.

Installation and Ducting Considerations

Before purchasing, you must assess your existing infrastructure. Check the diameter of your current exhaust ducting. Most standard residential fans utilize 3-inch or 4-inch ducts. If you purchase a high-CFM fan that requires a 6-inch duct but your home is only wired for 3 inches, you will face significant airflow resistance, which increases noise and decreases the fan's efficiency. Furthermore, consider the mounting style. If you are doing a full renovation, a new ceiling cutout allows for more flexibility. If you are doing a simple replacement, you must ensure the new unit's housing dimensions match the existing hole to avoid expensive drywall repairs.

Durable Construction and Maintenance

Finally, look for build quality that suggests longevity. Fans with metal housings tend to be more durable and vibrate less than all-plastic alternatives. Additionally, check the ease of access to the motor and the filter. A fan that is difficult to disassemble will make routine cleaning—essential for preventing dust buildup and maintaining airflow—a frustrating chore. A high-quality unit should be easy to wipe down and maintain over its decade-long lifespan.

Ready to choose?

Jump back to our ranked picks or compare the shortlist side by side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers about Broan-Nutone Bathroom Vent Fan before you buy.

Look at the CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) rating. A general rule of thumb is to provide at least 1 CFM for every square foot of bathroom space to ensure efficient moisture removal.

Standard fans require manual activation via a wall switch, whereas humidity-sensing models automatically turn on when they detect moisture levels rising, preventing mold growth even if you forget to flip the switch.

Yes. High-quality models use optimized blade geometry and insulated housings to reduce noise (measured in sones) without sacrificing the airflow necessary to clear steam.

Sones measure the level of noise produced by the fan. A lower sone rating indicates a quieter operation. For a peaceful bathroom environment, aim for fans rated under 1.5 sones.

In many cases, yes. Many modern upgrades are designed to fit standard housing dimensions, though you should always verify the duct diameter and housing size before purchasing.

Regular maintenance is key. Periodically vacuum the grille and ensure the motor housing is free of dust buildup, which can cause imbalance and increased vibration.

It depends on your needs. Integrated LED lights provide convenience and reduce wiring, while heater units offer comfort in colder climates, though they require more electrical capacity.
Research & Insights

Our Analysis of Broan-Nutone Bathroom Vent Fan

32,925 Reviews Analyzed
36 Products Evaluated
8.0 Avg PM Score
5 Brands Ranked

Top 10 Broan-Nutone Bathroom Vent Fan Brands on Amazon

Share of top-ranked products by brand, from our editorial analysis.

  1. 01 Broan-Nutone 32 (88.9%)
  2. 02 Broan 1 (2.8%)
  3. 03 Captive-Aire 1 (2.8%)
  4. 04 Chookachoo 1 (2.8%)
  5. 05 Endurance Pro 1 (2.8%)

What Our Analysis Found

We've carried out a comprehensive analysis of 32,925 reviews on Broan-Nutone Bathroom Vent Fan, using our selection criteria to identify the best options in the categories. Our findings reveal that most customers typically select Broan-Nutone Bathroom Vent Fan priced around $153.53.

Our team of expert editors reviewed these high-quality items and handpicked the top 5 Broan-Nutone Bathroom Vent Fan for your consideration..

We are dedicated to assisting our users in finding the right fans Products based on their needs, saving them considerable time when choosing which Broan-Nutone Bathroom Vent Fan to buy. We take pride in the number of satisfied users we've helped through our thorough and insightful reviews.