10 Best Hand Dryers 2025 in the United States

The Bobrick B-7128 QuietDry hand dryer is a strong choice for those wanting a quiet and reliable drying solution, especially in busy public restrooms. Its drying experience is fast and even thanks to dual air outlets and built-in heating, avoiding uncomfortable hot spots. At 71 decibels, it operates quietly—comparable to a high-end dishwasher—so it won't disturb users or nearby areas.

Power consumption is kept efficient, which helps reduce ongoing energy costs, and the elimination of paper towels also cuts maintenance and waste. The dryer’s stainless steel build is sturdy and designed to withstand heavy use, offering good durability for high-traffic locations. Touch-free activation adds a hygienic benefit, reducing germ spread. It also complies with ADA standards, making it accessible to everyone without needing extra space.

Installation is straightforward with its surface-mount design, though the front load form factor means it requires clear wall space. While not the newest model, its proven design remains practical. Some users might wish for an even lower noise level or faster drying time, but this model balances those features well for everyday commercial use.

The Excel Dryer XL-GR-1.1N Hand Dryer, particularly noted for its sleek graphite finish, stands out in the hand-dryer category with some impressive features. First off, its drying time is remarkable, taking just about 8 seconds to dry hands efficiently, which is significantly quicker than many traditional dryers. This speed can enhance user experience, especially in high-traffic areas like restrooms in restaurants or offices.

When it comes to power consumption, this model is designed to provide 95% savings compared to paper towel usage, making it an eco-friendly choice that can also help reduce costs over time. Additionally, the noise reduction nozzle is a thoughtful feature, likely to please users who are sensitive to loud sounds in public spaces.

On the hygiene front, the XLERATOR series is designed to minimize contact, promoting better sanitary practices by reducing potential germ transfer, a crucial factor in maintaining cleanliness in shared facilities. The initial investment for the XL-GR-1.1N might be higher than basic hand dryers, so it's essential to consider the long-term savings versus upfront costs. Also, its substantial weight of 35.43 pounds could pose challenges during installation and may require proper wall support or reinforcement. Maintenance is not overly complicated, but regular checks are necessary to ensure it operates efficiently since any buildup can affect performance.

The Dyson Airblade V is a strong contender in the hand dryer category, especially for places where hygiene, speed, and energy efficiency matter. It uses a HEPA filter that captures nearly all tiny particles from the air, making it a very hygienic option compared to many other dryers. Drying hands takes just 12 seconds, which is quite fast and helps reduce waiting times in busy restrooms.

It is also energy-efficient, costing about $40 per year to run and being up to 98% cheaper than using paper towels. The slim design makes installation easier since it doesn’t need to be recessed into the wall and meets ADA requirements, which is great for accessibility. With a 5-year warranty and certification by NSF International, durability and build quality seem reliable.

While it's not cordless, this is typical for most commercial hand dryers and shouldn’t be an issue for fixed installations. Maintenance should be manageable thanks to the touch-free operation and the use of replaceable filters. This hand dryer is a solid pick for public or commercial spaces prioritizing fast drying, hygiene, and lower running costs.