If you’re planning to set the mood at a party, concert, or event, a haze machine is an essential tool. Unlike fog machines that create thick clouds, haze machines produce a fine mist that enhances lighting effects, adding depth and atmosphere to your show. Whether you’re a DJ, lighting tech, or event planner, choosing the right haze machine can make a big difference in your visuals.
Here’s a rundown of the best haze machines for creating stunning, professional-looking atmospheres.
1. Chauvet DJ Hurricane Haze 4D
Why It’s a Top Choice:
- Quick Setup and Operation: The Chauvet Hurricane Haze 4D is known for its fast setup time, and it can start producing haze in less than a minute. Perfect for DJs and event planners on a tight schedule.
- Low Fluid Consumption: This haze machine is very efficient in terms of fluid consumption, so you’ll spend less money on haze fluid and won’t have to refill as often during long events.
- Adjustable Haze Output: The machine offers precise control over the haze output and fan speed, allowing you to tailor the thickness of the haze to your event’s needs.
- Digital Display: The user-friendly digital display makes it easy to adjust settings like fan speed and haze output. Plus, it has DMX control for syncing with your lighting setup.
Key Features:
- 15,000 CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) haze output
- Water-based haze fluid
- DMX control and standalone operation
- 2.5-liter tank capacity
- Fast 1-minute warm-up time
Best For: Mobile DJs, small to medium-sized venues, and clubs looking for quick setup and excellent haze control.
2. Antari HZ-350 Haze Machine
Why It’s a Pro-Grade Pick:
- Whisper-Quiet Operation: One of the quietest haze machines available, the Antari HZ-350 is perfect for performances or events where low noise levels are essential, such as theater productions or intimate concerts.
- Wireless Control: The machine comes with a wireless remote, making it easy to control from a distance. You can adjust the haze output and fan speed without being near the machine.
- Efficient Fluid Consumption: The HZ-350 consumes very little fluid, providing long-lasting operation without frequent refills.
- High Output: With a high haze output, this machine can fill large venues with a smooth, fine mist, ensuring the best lighting effects for concerts, nightclubs, or corporate events.
Key Features:
- Wireless remote control and DMX support
- 2.5-liter fluid tank
- Water-based haze fluid
- Silent operation
- Compact design
Best For: Large venues, theaters, and professional lighting setups where quiet operation and high haze output are critical.
3. ADJ Entour Venue
Why It’s a Powerhouse for Large Events:
- Continuous Haze Production: The ADJ Entour Venue can run continuously without needing to reheat, making it ideal for long performances or events.
- Powerful Output: With a high haze output of 15,000 CFM, this machine can fill large spaces quickly, ensuring your lighting looks great from start to finish.
- DMX Control: Fully DMX-compatible, the Entour Venue allows you to sync it with your lighting system for complete control over your atmosphere.
- Durable Build: Made from high-quality materials, this haze machine is designed for heavy use in demanding environments like concerts, festivals, and large-scale productions.
Key Features:
- 15,000 CFM output
- Continuous output (no reheating required)
- 2.5-liter fluid tank
- DMX and standalone modes
- High-quality aluminum housing
Best For: Concerts, large venues, festivals, and DJs who need high-performance haze production.
4. Chauvet DJ Haze 1DX
Why It’s Great for Mobile DJs:
- Compact and Lightweight: The Chauvet Haze 1DX is highly portable, making it a great option for mobile DJs or event planners who need to travel between venues.
- Budget-Friendly: Despite its smaller size, this machine provides excellent haze output for its price point, offering professional-grade performance on a budget.
- Easy to Use: It’s a straightforward haze machine with simple controls, perfect for users who don’t want to deal with complicated settings.
- DMX Compatibility: This machine features basic DMX control for easy integration into your existing lighting rig.
Key Features:
- 1.2-liter fluid tank
- 12,000 CFM output
- Compact design (ideal for mobile use)
- Water-based haze fluid
- DMX control
Best For: Mobile DJs and small event spaces needing an affordable, compact, and portable haze machine.
5. Antari Z-350 Fazer
Why It’s a Top-Quality Fazer:
- Fazer Technology: The Antari Z-350 is technically a “fazer,” which is a hybrid between a fog and haze machine. It produces a dry, thin mist that enhances lighting without overwhelming the room.
- Low Power Consumption: The Z-350 consumes very little power, making it energy-efficient and great for long performances.
- Compact and Portable: This unit is lightweight and easy to transport, but still offers plenty of power to fill medium-sized venues with haze.
- Efficient Fluid Usage: It uses minimal haze fluid, offering up to 7 hours of continuous operation with just 1 liter of fluid.
Key Features:
- 2-liter fluid tank
- Ultra-low fluid consumption
- DMX control and onboard menu
- Power-efficient design
- Quick heat-up time
Best For: DJs, event planners, and medium-sized venues looking for a portable fazer that provides great haze without excessive fluid usage.
6. Martin JEM Compact Hazer Pro
Why It’s a Premium Choice:
- Pro-Level Performance: The Martin JEM Compact Hazer Pro is a professional-grade haze machine used in large-scale productions, concerts, and theaters. It’s known for producing a fine, even haze that perfectly complements lighting setups.
- Precise Control: It offers highly precise control over the haze density and fan speed, allowing you to create the exact atmosphere you need.
- Low Fluid Consumption: Despite its high output, this machine is very efficient in terms of fluid usage, making it ideal for extended events or installations.
Key Features:
- 2.5-liter fluid tank
- High-efficiency haze output
- DMX control
- Continuous operation (no reheating required)
- Low noise design
Best For: Large venues, concerts, and professional productions where precise haze control and high output are essential.
7. Rockville R720L Fog/Smoke Machine with Built-In LED Lights
Why It’s Fun for Parties and Smaller Events:
- Fog and Haze Hybrid: The Rockville R720L is technically a fog machine but can be used for light haze production. Its best feature is the built-in LED lights, which change color and add to the overall effect.
- Budget-Friendly Option: For DJs and party planners on a budget, this is an affordable choice that still adds great effects to your lighting rig.
- Quick Warm-Up: This machine warms up in just a few minutes, ensuring that you can start creating atmosphere quickly.
Key Features:
- 400-watt fog/haze hybrid machine
- 10 LED lights with various colors
- Remote control for easy operation
- 0.5-liter fluid tank
- Compact and lightweight design
Best For: Small events, house parties, and mobile DJs who want a budget-friendly machine with built-in lighting effects.
How to Choose the Best Haze Machine: Key Considerations
1. Haze Output (CFM)
- The haze output, measured in Cubic Feet per Minute (CFM), determines how much haze a machine can produce. For small venues, aim for around 10,000 CFM, while larger venues will need machines with outputs of 15,000 CFM or more.
2. Fluid Consumption
- Consider the efficiency of the machine in terms of fluid usage. Machines like the Antari Z-350 and Chauvet Hurricane Haze 4D are known for their low fluid consumption, which is ideal for longer events.
3. Noise Levels
- For events where silence is important (e.g., theaters or corporate events), choose a quiet machine like the Antari HZ-350 or Martin JEM Compact Hazer Pro.
4. Portability
- If you’re a mobile DJ or frequently move your equipment, go for a lightweight and compact machine like the Chauvet Haze 1DX or Antari Z-350.
5. DMX Control
- Many haze machines offer DMX compatibility, allowing you to sync the machine with your lighting rig. This is essential for professional setups.
Final Thoughts: Best Haze Machine for Your Needs
- For Mobile DJs or Small Events: The Chauvet DJ Haze 1DX or Antari Z-350 offer portability and efficiency in smaller spaces.
- For Large Venues or Professional Use: The ADJ Entour Venue and Martin JEM Compact Hazer Pro are excellent choices for large-scale productions, offering powerful, continuous haze production.
- For Budget-Friendly Needs: The Rockville R720L is a great option for smaller parties or events that require both fog and lighting effects.
Choosing the right haze machine depends on the size of the venue, your budget, and your specific needs for control and output. No matter the event, these machines will help you create the perfect atmosphere.