Get insider access
Preferred store
Your browser is not supported or outdated so some features of the site might not be available.
We've recently launched Humidifiers! Read our R&D Article to learn more.

Crane Droplet Humidifier Review

Tested using Methodology v1.0
Reviewed Nov 22, 2024 at 08:37 am
Crane Droplet Picture
6.9
Home
8.0
Bedroom
7.0
Cleaning
6.0
Capacity
7.2
Humidifier Efficiency

The Crane Droplet is an ultrasonic humidifier intended for small spaces, with an advertised coverage of 250 ft2. It has an automatic off function for when its water tank runs dry as well as a tray for adding a few drops of essential oil or an aromatherapy pad.

Our Verdict

6.9 Home

The Crane Droplet is alright for general home use. However, its capacity is a little too low for it to efficiently humidify larger spaces, like living rooms or apartments. On the upside, it's pretty compact and makes very little noise while running, so you can set it up virtually anywhere without it being much of a distraction. It's somewhat easy to take apart and has a simple design, but its small tank can be a little tricky to clean properly.

Pros
  • Makes minimal noise while running.

  • Decently long runtime.

Cons
  • Mediocre humidification capacity.

  • Somewhat power-hungry for an ultrasonic unit.

8.0 Bedroom

The Crane Droplet is a great choice for use in bedrooms. Its 15-hour runtime should last you through the night, provided you filled its tank before getting some shut-eye. In the event that you haven't, it will thankfully shut itself off if its tank runs dry to avoid damage. It's also very compact and incredibly quiet while running, so it won't keep you awake while in use.

Pros
  • Very small footprint.

  • Makes minimal noise while running.

  • Decently long runtime.

Cons
  • Somewhat power-hungry for an ultrasonic unit.

7.0 Cleaning

The Crane Droplet is decently easy to maintain. Disassembly is simple, and you can wash all of its components in a sink for hand-washing, though unfortunately, no parts are dishwasher-safe. You might also have trouble cleaning every last nook and cranny within its somewhat narrow water tank.

Pros
  • Easy disassembly.

Cons
  • Water tank is difficult to clean properly.

6.0 Capacity

The Crane Droplet's humidification capacity is mediocre. It's best used in smaller bedrooms or offices and will struggle to efficiently humidify bigger areas like open-concept living rooms or whole apartments.

Pros
Cons
  • Mediocre humidification capacity.

7.2 Humidifier Efficiency

The Crane Droplet's humidification capacity is satisfactory. It consumes a fair amount of energy for an ultrasonic humidifier, especially one best used in smaller rooms.

Pros
Cons
  • Somewhat power-hungry for an ultrasonic unit.

  • 6.9 Home
  • 8.0 Bedroom

Performance Usages

  • 7.0 Cleaning
  • 6.0 Capacity
  • 7.2 Humidifier Efficiency
  1. Updated Nov 22, 2024: Review published.

Differences Between Sizes And Variants

The Crane Droplet is available in four different color variants: 'Blue & White,' 'Clear & White,' 'White,' and 'Grey.' We tested the 'Blue & White' model, and for those interested, here's the product label.

Let us know in the forums below if you come across another variant of this humidifier so that we can update the review.

Compared To Other Humidifiers

The Crane Droplet is a basic ultrasonic humidifier. It's highly compact, runs incredibly quietly, and can be used with essential oils, making it a good choice for bedrooms. It'll struggle to humidify larger spaces efficiently, even compared to similarly priced alternatives like the larger Crane Adorable or Vicks VEV400.

Test Results

perceptual testing image
Design
8.9
Design
Size
Height 27 cm (10.7")
Width 19 cm (7.3")
Depth 18 cm (7.2")
Power Cord Length 1.82 m (6.0 ft)
7.0
Design
Cleaning
Dishwasher Safe
No

The Crane Droplet is decently easy to maintain. It comes apart really easily, and there aren't that many parts that need to be cleaned periodically. All parts can be taken off the base unit and washed in a sink. That said, you can't throw any of its components into a dishwasher for easier cleaning. Getting a hand or a brush into the small water tank can also be rather difficult, so be wary of mold or grime within the tank's narrower recesses.

Design
Features
Type
Ultrasonic
Mist Temperature
Cool
Humidistat
No
Water Sterilization
No
Essential Oil Compatible
Yes
Auto-Off
Yes
Smartphone App
No

This is a pretty basic humidifier, but it does have a few helpful extra features. There are three levels of misting intensity that you can toggle between depending on your desired level of humidity. While there's no built-in humidistat, there is an automatic off function that will shut the machine off once its tank has run dry. You can also add essential oil or an aromatherapy pad to the unit if you want a scented mist.

7.0
Design
Runtime
Tank Refill Type
Bottom Fill
Tank Usable Capacity
1.8 L (0.5 gal)
Runtime
15 hrs
Performance
6.0
Performance
Humidification Capacity
Time from 30% to 60%
93 min
Advertised Coverage
250ft²
Water Emitted by The Humidifier
190 ml (6.4 oz)
Water Evaporated by The Environment
160 ml (5.4 oz)
Tested Humidification Capacity
2.9 LPD
7.2
Performance
Humidifier Efficiency
Humidifier Energy Consumption
31 Wh
Humidifier Efficiency
5.2L/kWh

This unit's power consumption is a little on the high end for an ultrasonic unit, especially for a humidifier intended for smaller spaces. Check out the Crane Adorable if humidification efficiency is a priority.

8.3
Performance
Overall Efficiency
Energy Required For Evaporation
100 Wh
Overall Energy Required
131 Wh
Overall Efficiency
1.2L/kWh

The Crane Droplet's overall efficiency is great, with a caveat. While using it in colder, drier months means your heating system may have to work a little harder than usual due to the cooling properties of an ultrasonic unit, it'll do very well in warmer, drier climates.

9.1
Performance
Noise
Noise @ Highest Setting
32.9dBA
Noise @ Lowest Setting
32.9dBA