Essex Pro vs Apex II: Which 56-Inch Smart Fan Wins?
By CARRO Smart Ceiling Fan and lighting Outlet-Smafan | Published: 2026-10-28
Category: Comparisons
Compare the Essex Pro and Apex II 56-inch smart ceiling fans on outdoor rating, lighting, memory, and installation to find the right fit for your space.
Quick answer
Both the Essex Pro and Apex II are 56-inch damp-rated smart ceiling fans, but the Apex II adds full power-off memory, while the Essex Pro offers a lower price and a 2000-lumen dimmable LED light. Choose the Apex II for convenience, the Essex Pro for budget-friendly brightness.
Outdoor rating and installation
Both fans are damp-rated, meaning they are designed for covered patios, screened porches, and similar spaces shielded from direct rain, snow, or moisture. This makes either a safe choice for most outdoor living areas.
Installation is a key difference. The Apex II is described as designed for simple, fast installation, which can save time if you are installing the fan yourself. The Essex Pro does not emphasize this feature, so if you are not handy, you might prefer the Apex II.
Lighting performance and memory
The Essex Pro features a high-brightness 2000-lumen LED light kit that is fully dimmable with adjustable color temperature. This makes it a strong choice for rooms or patios where you need ample, flexible illumination.
The Apex II, on the other hand, focuses on convenience with full power-off memory. It remembers your last fan speed, brightness, and color temperature every time power returns, so you do not have to reset your preferences after a power outage or when using a wall switch.
Price and value
The Essex Pro is priced at $222.48 (compare at $309.00), while the Apex II is $236.06 (compare at $319.00). The $13.58 difference is modest, so your decision will likely hinge on which feature matters more: memory or lighting brightness.
Decision trade-offs
- Choose the Essex Pro if: you prioritize maximum lighting output with a 2000-lumen dimmable LED and want the lower price of $222.48. Verify the color temperature range fits your room's ambiance needs.
- Choose the Apex II if: you want the convenience of full power-off memory so your fan speed and lighting settings return automatically after power loss. Confirm your wall switch or remote setup benefits from memory restoration.
- Either fan works if: you need a 56-inch damp-rated smart fan for a covered patio or screened porch; both are rated for such spaces. Measure your ceiling height and blade clearance before ordering.
Product facts
- Essex Pro Smart Ceiling Fan with LED Light and Remote Outdoor/Indoor 56 inch: Damp-rated for covered outdoor areas; features a 2000-lumen dimmable LED light with adjustable color temperature. You get bright, flexible lighting for patios or large rooms, but you will need to manually restore settings after power interruptions.
Essex Pro Smart Ceiling Fan with LED Light and Remote Outdoor/Indoor 56 inch - Apex Ⅱ Smart Ceiling Fan with LED Light and Remote Outdoor/Indoor 56 inch: Damp-rated for covered outdoor areas; includes full power-off memory that restores your last fan speed, brightness, and color temperature. Your preferences are automatically restored after power returns, saving you time and hassle, though it costs slightly more than the Essex Pro.
Apex Ⅱ Smart Ceiling Fan with LED Light and Remote Outdoor/Indoor 56 inch
Which fan fits you?
Best for
- Homeowners who want a budget-friendly fan with high-brightness LED lighting for large covered patios or living rooms.
- DIY installers who value fast, simple installation and automatic settings restoration.
Not for
- Buyers who need a fan rated for direct rain or snow—choose a wet-rated model instead.
