Belt-driven blowers are typically quieter than direct-drive blowers and provide more control over the blower fans' speed and airflow. These blowers come with a drive package that includes the motor, sheaves, belts, and bushings.

Belt-drive blowers without drive do not come with a drive package, so the user must provide the motor and other drive components. Belt-drive blowers are typically quieter and provide more control over the blower speed and airflow than direct-drive blowers.

Direct-drive blowers with drive feature a blower wheel directly mounted onto the motor shaft to reduce friction and improve efficiency compared to a belt-drive blower. Direct-drive blowers have fewer moving parts and typically require less maintenance than belt-drive blowers.

Corrosion-resistant direct-drive blowers feature blower wheels and housings that resist the effects of exposure to moisture or other corrosive elements. Direct-drive blowers feature a blower wheel that is mounted directly onto the motor shaft which reduces friction and improves efficiency compared to a belt-drive fan. Direct-drive fans have fewer moving parts and typically require less maintenance than belt-drive fans.

OEM (Original equipment manufacturer) replacement direct-drive blowers with drive are typically smaller than HVAC blowers and are installed into equipment or systems to generate airflow. Their blower wheel is directly mounted onto the motor shaft to reduce friction and improve efficiency compared to a belt-drive blower. Direct-drive blowers have fewer moving parts and typically require less maintenance than belt-drive blowers.