Vornado is relatively new to humidifiers, but they are quickly trying to make a name in this competitive market with two models, an ultrasonic humidifier and a slightly smaller evaporative humidifier. Both units have an interesting array of features, but as with any testing I was more concerned with results than simple aesthetics. After using both units for 48 hours periods here is what I found.

What I like about Vornado Humidifiers

The Vornado Ultrasonic has one of the larger tank capacities currently available. At two gallons I didn't have to refill this unit through continuous use over the first 24 hour period. On the second day, I ran the unit at the highest possible settings and filled in only twice during that 24 hour period. The digital controls, LCD screen, and mini remote were all major pluses for this model. The screen is easy to read, and the remote, though small, is a handy addition. Another feature that really impressed me about this unit is the fan. While I'm not sure the "Vortex Action" creates the same interesting little cyclone that the Vornado video shows, what I can say with confidence is that this unit, regardless of the size of the room, does more evenly distribute moisture. The effects of humidifying could be felt much more quickly with this unit. Like many Germ Guardian and Air-O-Swiss humidifiers, the Vornado Ultrasonic Humidifier is a dual mist humidifier. This eliminates one of the decisions you have to make when considering humidifiers. Lastly, the ultrasonic vibrations help keep microbial growth to a minimum while a demineralization cartridge reduces mineral build-up by filtering the water as it leaves the holding tank.

The Vornado Evaporative Humidifier is a quiet, energy efficient cool mist humidifier. Similar to the Vornado Ultrasonic, the Evaporative has easy to use push button, electronic controls. It's easy to set the humidity and fan speed. While there is no LCD screen, this model has humidity set points. The tank capacity is rather large for an evaporative humidifier. Though I did fill this unit twice during a 24 hour period, on high, this model pushed more water into the air than comparable evaporator humidifiers. The coverage area was exceptional for this humidifier. Both in my home and in our much larger main office room, this unit quickly raised the humidity. In a room that is roughly 900 square feet, I was able to raise the relative humidity 25% in just over two hours (as measured by a separate hygrometer).

Both models come with a 5-Year Limited Warranty, which places them slightly ahead of the competition. Current standard is about three years. So while they may be new to this market, they seem to be very willing to back their products.

What I do not like about Vornado Humidifiers

My first drawback with the ultrasonic humidifier was the tank. Though you think this wouldn't be the case, most humidifiers still are awkward to move. Most often the tank has a handle, and when you lift up on it, you usually just lift the tank, not the entire unit. This can be a mess if you're not careful. The Vornado Ultrasonic Humidifier falls into this category. Again, I can't hold this too heavily against the unit considering it seems to be such a widespread problem.

With the Evaporative model, I find the same thing with the tank as the Ultrasonic. More importantly though, personally, I have never been a big fan of evaporative units. To me there's too great a risk of bacteria buildup in the tanks and in the evaporator wicks. The Vornado Evaporative Humidifier lacks any sort of silver ions, boiling of the water, or ultrasonic vibrations to kill germs in the tank. With continuous use and regular cleaning you can keep the risk to a minimum. Though the user manual recommends diluted bleach, try white vinegar instead. You get an acidic cleaner that kills most germs without having to worry about vaporizing bleach residue and blowing it throughout your home.

Overall, both are good humidifiers at reasonable prices. The integration of the Vornado's, Vortex Action, air circulation technology gives these units a step up over many models, and the electronic controls and humidistat provide a measure of convenience found in only about half of the humidifiers on the market today. Personally, I would lean towards the Vornado Ultrasonic because of the added features, ultrasonic humidification and larger tank capacity, but if cost is a driving concern, the Vornado Evaporative is a good fall back unit.