Buying guide for best portable air conditioners
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Staying comfortable throughout the heat of summer can be a challenge. One solution is to invest in a portable air conditioner. With this type of machine, you can cool only the room you’re in, spending less money and energy than you would on a whole-home air conditioner.
We researched, evaluated and listened to customer feedback on more than 50 portable air conditioners to grasp what’s available. Before you buy a portable air conditioner, you'll need to know which type is right for you, how powerful it must be and which features are essential. You'll also want to learn about all the possible bells and whistles, such as air purification and eco mode.
Our top choice is the Whynter ARC-1230WN 14,000 Btu AC, which can cool a space up to 600 square feet. It features three operating modes (air conditioner, dehumidifier and fan) and includes a remote and 24-hour timer.
Editors' picks
Whynter ARC-1230WN 14,000-Btu Air Conditioner
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Editors’ Favorite
Btu rating: 14,000 Btu | Dimensions: 16.75" D x 19.5" W x 32.5" H | Cooling area (sq. ft.): 600 | Weight: 77.25 Ib | Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER): 12.3
The WHYNTER ARC-1230WN 14,000-Btu Air Conditioner delivers 14,000 Btus of cooling power, making it ideal for large areas up to 600 square feet. It features a dual-hose design and inverter technology, so it’s 40% more efficient than other models. Its wheels also make it easy to move around your home as needed.
This unit is versatile, too, offering three operational modes. Its cooling mode provides full thermostatic control between 60 and 85 degrees. In addition to its cooling function, it has dehumidifying and fan settings. The dehumidifier setting can remove up to 87 pints of moisture per day and includes an auto-drain function to minimize maintenance. The fan mode offers three speeds, so you can customize the amount of air circulated in the room.
The ARC-1230WN is also a smart model. You can use the NetHome Plus app to control your AC unit from anywhere via your phone or tablet. It’s also compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, so you can use voice commands to adjust its settings.
Whynter Portable Air Conditioner and Dehumifier
Most Versatile
Btu rating: 14,000 Btu | Dimensions: 19" W x 16" D x 35.5" H | Cooling area (sq. ft.): 500 | Weight: 73 lb | Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER): 7.69
Whynter is an award-winning company that satisfies its customers. This Whynter Portable Air Conditioner and Dehumifier is a versatile machine with a 14,000-Btu rating, making it suitable for larger rooms up to about 500 square feet.
Its standout features are its dedicated intake and exhaust hoses, which cool a room with efficiency. The air conditioner ships with eco-friendly CFC-free Green R-32 refrigerant, making this product an Earth-kind option.
The thermostat has a 28-degree range, allowing you to select any temperature from 61 to 89 degrees. And like other models, it can cool, dehumidify or serve as a simple fan.
While the aesthetics of this machine may not fit every room, it has functional versatility and would be a great air conditioner for a garage. The self-evaporation feature makes this a highly desirable unit, as it can remove up to 71 pints of moisture from the air while using the auto-drain.
Dreo 12,000-Btu Portable Air Conditioner
Best Smart Portable AC
Btu rating: 12,000 BTU | Dimensions: 14.37" D x 17.32" W x 28.13" H | Cooling area (sq. ft.): 300 | Weight: 62.9 Ib | Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER): 6.1
The Dreo 12,000-Btu Portable Air Conditioner is a standout option for anyone looking to cool a medium-sized room quickly and quietly. With a powerful 12,000 Btu output, it’s designed to handle up to 300 square feet of space with ease.
What really sets it apart is the thoughtful combination of features, such as the 3-in-1 mode that toggles between cooling, fan-only and dehumidifying functions. Plus, the drainage-free design in cooling mode means less maintenance during daily use, especially in rooms with moderate humidity.
Setup is refreshingly easy thanks to the included universal window kit, which fits a wide range of window sizes without much fuss. Smart home compatibility with Alexa and Google Assistant adds a modern touch that many users will appreciate, and the Dreo app gives you full control without having to leave the couch.
At 62.9 pounds, it’s not the lightest unit out there, but the compact design and built-in wheels make moving it around fairly painless. For those prioritizing a blend of smart features, quiet comfort and reliable performance, this portable air conditioner hits a sweet spot — especially at its price point.
Black+Decker 8,000 Btu Portable Air Conditioner
Best Budget AC for Small Rooms
Btu rating: 8,500 Btu | Dimensions: 11.02" D x 11.4" W x 26.47" H | Cooling area (sq. ft.): 350 | Weight: 42.3 Ib | Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER): NA
The Black+Decker 8,000 Btu Portable Air Conditioner is an excellent choice for small- to medium-sized rooms. Unlike more robust units, this air conditioner has a sleek design and won’t take up too much space in your home.
This three-in-one unit combines an air conditioner, dehumidifier and fan, and it has a Btu rating of 8,500, effectively cooling rooms as large as 350 square feet. The top-mounted control panel, featuring an LED display, makes it easy to operate and manage conditioner settings according to your comfort preferences. It includes a remote that allows you to control settings and features from a distance, and the timer lets you set a shut-off time up to 24 hours in advance.
Customers appreciate this model for its ultra-compact design and quick-cooling effects. The window-vent kit makes installation easy, and the air outlet louvers can be manually adjusted, providing a degree of control over the direction the cool air blows.
DREO 8,000-Btu Portable Air Conditioner
Best for Bedrooms
Btu rating: 8,000 Btu | Dimensions: 15.16" D x 13.98" W x 24.8" H | Cooling area (sq. ft.): 150 | Weight: 55 Ib | Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER): 6.1
Despite coming in under $500, the DREO 8,000-Btu Portable Air Conditioner is still powerful enough to cool small to midsize rooms, covering up to 150 square feet. It allows you to choose a temperature between 61 and 86 degrees, so you can keep your home as comfortable as possible. Its 3-in-1 design also means that it works as a fan and a dehumidifier, offering added versatility.
You don’t have to worry about draining this model, either. It features a self-evaporating design and uses sensors, DREO’s patented algorithm and a pump to automatically remove excess water, so drainage isn’t necessary. If you live in an environment with humidity above 90%, though, it requires a drain hose, which is included.
The size and power of this portable air conditioner make it ideal for bedrooms, and so does its noise-isolating system. Its unique technology allows it to operate at just 45 decibels, quieter than a normal conversation. It’s also a smart model, so you can use voice commands to control it from your bed using Siri, Alexa or Google Assistant.
Midea Duo 12,000-Btu Portable Air Conditioner
Best for Small Homes
Btu rating: 12,000 Btu | Dimensions: 16.73" D x 19.53" W x 34.48" H | Cooling area (sq. ft.): 450 | Weight: 72.75 Ib | Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER): 12.3
The Midea Duo 12,000-Btu Portable Air Conditioner features a unique hose-in-hose design that lets it both intake and exhaust air; this helps circulate air evenly indoors while preventing hot air from seeping into your home. It also uses variable-speed inverter technology to reduce energy consumption compared to traditional portable AC units.
Delivering 12,000 Btus of cooling power, it can cool areas up to 450 square feet. It also has a dry setting that works as a dehumidifier, as well as a fan mode. The fan option lets you choose from three speeds, allowing you to customize how the air circulates in the room.
This unit is Wi-Fi enabled and features smart control of its settings. You can use the Midea Air smartphone app to adjust its settings or connect it to your Alexa or Google Assistant for voice commands. It operates at a noise level of just 42 decibels, too, so you don’t have to worry about it keeping you up at night.
Midea Duo MAP14HS1TBL Portable Air Conditioner
Best With Heat Pump
Btu rating: 14,000 Btu | Dimensions: 16.7" D x 19.5" W x 34.5" H | Cooling area (sq. ft.): 550 | Weight: NA | Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER): 12.3
The Midea Duo MAP14HS1TBL Portable Air Conditioner lowers the temperature of the entire room with its powerful cooling capabilities. But that's not all it can do. It also provides efficent heating, so you can stay comfortable any time of year.
A unique hose design and air duct system provides a faster and stronger cooling experience. Featuring 14,000 Btu, it can cool rooms up to 550 square feet. And installation is quick and easy with the included sliding window adapter.
Smart controls let you adjust the temperature wherever you are via an app for iOS and Android. Or you can control it with your voice, thanks to a little help from devices with Google Assistant and Alexa.
Midea 10,000-Btu Portable Air Conditioner
Best Space-Saving Unit
Btu rating: 10,000 Btu | Dimensions: 11.54" D x 11.61" W x 27.76" H | Cooling area (sq. ft.): 300 | Weight: 50 Ib | Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER): 6.92
With 10,000 Btus of cooling power, the Midea 10,000-Btu Portable Air Conditioner quickly and effectively cools areas up to 300 square feet. However, despite its power, it’s one of the most compact models on our list, making it ideal for smaller homes. It also has four wheels at the bottom, so you can easily move it from room to room and roll it out of the way when it’s not in use.
As a 3-in-1 model, it features three modes: cooling, dehumidifying and fan only. Its 24-hour adjustable timer lets you set a temperature between 62 and 90 degrees, ensuring your home is always comfortable while keeping energy costs down.
Its operation is extremely user-friendly, too. It features digital controls and an easy-to-read LED display, allowing you to quickly adjust settings. It has a remote that lets you control the unit from a distance, but it’s also Wi-Fi-enabled. With the SmartHome app, you can adjust settings and set a schedule. You can even pair the AC unit with Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa for voice commands.
LG 10,000-Btu Portable Air Conditioner
Most Quiet
Btu rating: 10,000 Btu | Dimensions: 18.11" D x 19.41" W x 30.43" H | Cooling area (sq. ft.): 450 | Weight: 70.99 Ib | Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER): 7.9
Delivering 10,000 Btus, the LG 10,000-Btu Portable Air Conditioner is certainly powerful, making it ideal for areas up to 450 square feet. Despite this power, though, it’s an excellent fit for bedrooms. That’s because it has a sleep mode that lets it operate at just 44 decibels, so you don’t have to worry about it disturbing you in bed.
This model is also energy-efficient, helping you keep your energy costs down. It features dual inverter technology, which reduces energy consumption by up to 40% compared to noninverter models. It offers three modes, so it not only cools down your home but also acts as a dehumidifier to remove moisture and a fan to circulate air effectively.
Installation is extremely easy with this unit, too. It includes a window kit, so you only have to place it in a window and then connect the hose from the window vent to the back of the portable air conditioner. You can use the included remote to operate the AC unit from across the room or use the LG ThinQ app to adjust settings via your smartphone.
Black+Decker 14,000-BTU Portable Air Conditioner
Powerful & Convenient
Btu rating: 14,000 Btu | Dimensions: 16.5" W x 14.06" D x 27.09" H | Cooling area (sq. ft.): 700 | Weight: 59.8 lb | Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER): 6.2
Black+Decker is known for its stellar outdoor products and machines. We love the Black+Decker 14,000-BTU Portable Air Conditioner because it has that same dedication to quality.
It’s a solid, well-built product with a 14,000-Btu rating, which makes it capable of cooling rooms as large as 700 square feet. Although it weighs a hefty 60 pounds, built-in handles and caster wheels help it move from room to room with ease.
Besides cooling, this model has a dehumidifier and fan. You can operate it in whatever mode is appropriate for the weather and environment. The top-mounted control panel has an LED display and intuitive graphic buttons for easy use right out of the box.
This portable air conditioner includes a window kit, exhaust hose, remote and instruction manual. It’s easy to install, performs exceptionally well and is the best portable air conditioner for large rooms.
LG Dual Inverter Portable Air Conditioner
Best Design
Btu rating: 10,000 Btu | Dimensions: 18.11" D x 19.41" W x 30.43" H | Cooling area (sq. ft.): 450 | Weight: 71 lb | Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER): 7.9
We love the sleek, modern design of the LG Dual Inverter Portable Air Conditioner. It has a smooth, unobtrusive aesthetic, which makes it suitable for any room in your home, no matter what the decor.
The 10,000 Btu rating makes this model a good choice for rooms up to 450 square feet. This means it could cool even the larger rooms in most homes.
The dual inverter compressor means this model can save you up to 40% over non-inverter portable air conditioners. It also ensures it will run at such a quiet level that you might not even notice it's on.
With LG's ThinQ smartphone app, you can control your air temperature, no matter where you are. If you forgot to shut the machine off before leaving the house, no problem. Likewise, if you want to start cooling your bedroom before you leave work, that is an option as well.
Amazon Basics 3-in-1 Portable Air Conditioner
Quiet and Affordable
Btu rating: 10,000 Btu | Dimensions: 17.87" W x 14.37" D x 27.56" H | Cooling area (sq. ft.): 450 | Weight: 59.5 lb
The Amazon Basics 3-in-1 Portable Air Conditioner punches above its weight when it comes to cooling performance in small to medium spaces. Designed for rooms up to 450 square feet, it’s a great pick if you’re looking to keep a bedroom, home office or guest room comfortable without breaking the bank.
We appreciated the 3-in-1 versatility (cool, dry and fan modes), and the intelligent “Auto” setting that takes the guesswork out of adjusting temperatures. Add in the auto-swing louvers, sleep mode and remote with a built-in thermostat sensor, and you’ve got a setup that’s smarter than it looks.
While it won’t win any design awards, this unit does the job without a lot of noise or fuss. If you're after straightforward comfort with a few smart touches, this portable AC brings the chill without overcomplicating things.
Black+Decker 10,000 Btu Portable Air Conditioner
Best for Everyday Use
Btu rating: 10,000 Btu | Dimensions: 14" D x 15.3" W x 24.8" H | Cooling area (sq. ft.): 450 | Weight: 47.3 lb | Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER): 6.7
If you like our pick for the Best of the Best, but don't need as much power, this Black+Decker 10,000 Btu Portable Air Conditioner is a solid option. It offers reliable performance, an array of features and an easy-to-install window kit for convenience. Combined, these pros make this model a great option for everyday use.
The 10,000-Btu performance lets you cool mid-sized to large rooms (up to 450 square feet). This makes it ideal for the main bedroom, an office or even a living room. And besides cooling, this unit can serve as a dehumidifier to keep the same rooms dry without cooling.
If you ever need to move the air conditioner to another room, it has casters on the bottom for easy rolling. Additionally, there are built-in handles on the sides to help you move the machine to wherever you want to put it with minimal effort.
As for features, this model has a compact design and a top-mounted control panel with an LED display. For convenience, it comes with a remote and has a slide-out, washable filter.
Black+Decker 8,000-Btu Portable Air Conditioner
Best for Small Rooms
Btu rating: 8,000 Btu | Dimensions: 15.3" W x 14" D x 24.8" H | Cooling area (sq. ft.): 350 | Weight: 45.8 lb | Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER): 5.4
If you're a fan of Black+Decker but don't need a large machine that can cool an entire living room, the Black+Decker 8,000-Btu Portable Air Conditioner is a great option for a smaller space, like a bedroom.
Besides being smaller in size and power, this model is lighter, weighing just over 45 pounds. And it comes with a remote control so it's easy to operate from across the room.
It offers cooling, dehumidifying and fan operation and has a slide-out washable filter that makes maintenance a (cool) breeze. It even has a 24-hour timer and auto-water evaporation.
If you're looking for a comfortable night's sleep or want to keep your office at an optimum temperature, check this air conditioner out.
Honeywell Evaporative Air Cooler
Trusted Brand
Btu rating: NA | Dimensions: 13.9" D x 13.9" W x 43.5" H | Cooling area (sq. ft.): 280 | Weight: 19.6 lb | Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER): NA
Honeywell is a trusted brand with a history of making consumers happy. This Honeywell Evaporative Air Cooler is no exception. The fan pulls warm air through a wet, absorbent panel that cools the air to create a more comfortable living environment for the homeowner.
This model does not use a compressor to cool the air. This means it requires considerably less energy to run than a traditional model (only about 145 watts). While it doesn't deliver the chill of a compressor, it requires no installation, so it can be effortlessly moved as needed.
The tall unit has oscillating, vertical vents that distribute the air evenly over a 90-degree span for maximum cooling effect. This helps ensure comfort in rooms up to 280 square feet. However, because of its design, this model is even effective in open-air situations, such as a covered patio, as it can mimic the sensation of a cool breeze.
This Honeywell air conditioner weighs less than 20 pounds. It's mounted on wheels, so it can be rolled to wherever it's needed with almost no effort.
How we chose the best portable air conditioners
BestReviews employs a broad-based approach to choosing products. For these portable air conditioners, we assembled an extensive list of 60 models and considered the features of each. We researched how these features work and why they matter to the user experience.
Besides relying on our expertise, we looked at the customer experience of more than 170 users to understand what people want and which products meet or exceed their expectations. Finally, we viewed our data and curated a list of the very best models.
What to consider when buying a portable air conditioner
Types of portable air conditioners
Single-hose vs. dual-hose systems
There are two basic types of portable air conditioners: single-hose and dual-hose. A single-hose system is more affordable and less efficient, making it best for smaller rooms.
A single-hose unit has an exhaust hose that expels hot air created by the air conditioning unit. Fresh air is drawn in through any other opening in the room, such as beneath the door or through other cracks or openings, to replace that air.
A dual-hose system has a second, dedicated hose that draws air in and cools it directly, making the process much more efficient. The downside of a dual-hose system is that they tend to be more expensive than single-hose units.
Specialized units with additional features
The primary purpose of an air conditioner is to cool the air in your living space to make things more comfortable. However, some models can be used year-round, as they include a heating function. Additionally, while portable air conditioners normally remove moisture from the air, many have a dedicated dehumidifier feature that works without cooling. Since all portable air conditioners exchange air, the best models offer air filtration to remove pollen, mold and other airborne particulates.
Sizing and cooling capacity
A portable air conditioner must be sized to fit the needs of a room. If it’s too small, the room may never reach the desired temperature, resulting in higher energy bills and improper cooling cycles. The ideal air conditioner should run in 15-to-20-minute cycles of cooling and resting. If the unit is too big, the cooling cycle will be too short. This will place increased strain on the unit, the humidity will not be removed and you won't feel comfortable.
An air conditioner's cooling power is expressed in British thermal units (Btu). The higher the Btu, the more cooling power it has. To properly size an air conditioner in a room, all you need to know is the square footage of the room. To get the square footage, measure the length and width of the room and multiply.
For example, if a room is 20 feet long by 20 feet wide, the room is 400 square feet. To get a basic Btu estimate, multiply the square footage by 25. Using the same example, a 400-square-foot room would need a 10,000-Btu air conditioner. Hotter climates, open doors, poorly insulated rooms and south-facing rooms will require a higher Btu, so it's best to add roughly 10% more for each factor to get optimal results.
Our top picks: Size and cooling capacity
- Whynter ARC-1230WN 14,000-Btu Air Conditioner: This model delivers 14,000 Btus of cooling power, so it can keep an area of up to 600 square feet comfortable.
- Whynter Portable Air Conditioner 14,000-Btu with Dual Hose: This 14,000-Btu unit is powerful enough to quickly and efficiently cool a 500-square-foot area.
- Dreo 12,000-Btu Portable Air Conditioner: Offering 12,000 Btus, this unit can cool a 300-square-foot space in no time.
- BLACK+DECKER 8,000-Btu Portable Air Conditioner: This model offers 8,000 Btus and is rated for spaces up to 350 square feet.
- DREO 8,000-Btu Portable Air Conditioner: This unit is ideal for small to midsize rooms, delivering 8,000 Btus to cool spaces up to 150 square feet.
Energy efficiency and environmental impact
Purchasing a portable air conditioner with the appropriate Btu rating is only part of the picture. You're also going to want to consider the energy-efficiency ratio (EER). This is the number you get when you divide the Btu rating by input watts (when the outdoor temperature is 95 degrees). The optimum EER is between 8 and 19, but the higher the number, the greater the efficiency.
Some people don't want to get bogged down in these calculations, especially when not all manufacturers make Btu and wattage figures easy to find. Instead, you can search for an Energy Star-certified air conditioner. This certification means the air conditioner uses 8% less energy than conventional models.
While we're on the topic of eco-friendly features, you can also make a difference by choosing an air conditioner with natural refrigerants — ones that have little or no negative impact on the environment and global warming. Additionally, a unit that features an eco mode can run the compressor at a slower speed, which won't be as effective in hot weather but will conserve energy, save money and offer quieter operation.
Our top picks: Energy efficiency
- Whynter ARC-1230WN 14,000-Btu Air Conditioner: With an SEER rating of 12.3, this model features dual-hose technology, making it 40% more efficient than single-hose units.
- Whynter Portable Air Conditioner 14,000-Btu with Dual Hose: This model uses chlorofluorocarbon (CFC)-free refrigerants, reducing its environmental impact.
- Dreo 12,000-Btu Portable Air Conditioner: Though it is not Energy Star certified, users say that this unit is energy efficient and saves them money.
- BLACK+DECKER 8,000-Btu Portable Air Conditioner: This model uses 840 watts of power and consumes approximately 447 kilowatt hours per year, so it has an estimated yearly energy cost of $71.
- DREO 8,000-Btu Portable Air Conditioner: This model uses R-32 refrigerant, an eco-friendly option that reduces its environmental impact.
Noise level considerations
According to the Centers for Disease Control, listening to "sounds above 70 decibels over a prolonged period may start to damage your hearing." However, noise type and volume level are highly subjective. One person might find 50 decibels intolerable, while another might find the white noise from a portable air conditioner running at 60 decibels soothing. On average, portable air conditioners run between 50 and 60 decibels. However, some models have a sleep or quiet mode that might drop them as low as 45 decibels.
If your portable air conditioner is still too noisy for you in night mode, you have a few options.
- Consider a different location for the air conditioner or your bed.
- Keep the air conditioner clean so there is no additional rattling from debris.
- Use a sound-dampening mat around or beneath the unit.
- Make sure the air conditioner is on a level floor.
- Add a low-pile rug beneath the unit.
- Consider wearing earplugs while sleeping.
Our top picks: Noise level
- Whynter ARC-1230WN 14,000-Btu Air Conditioner: Operating at just over 42 decibels on low, this unit is one of the quieter options on our list.
- Whynter Portable Air Conditioner 14,000-Btu with Dual Hose: This model reaches 51 decibels on low speed, making it quieter than a regular conversation.
- Dreo 12,000-Btu Portable Air Conditioner: Many users praise this model for being whisper quiet at 46 decibels.
- BLACK+DECKER 8,000-Btu Portable Air Conditioner: Reaching just 50 decibels on low, this model is perfect for bedrooms.
- DREO 8,000-Btu Portable Air Conditioner: Featuring DREO’s patented noise isolation system, this model operates at just 45 decibels on low, so it won’t disturb your sleep.
Installation and ventilation requirements
While portable air conditioners may differ from one another, their installation is basically the same. Most slide and snap together for a simple, tool-free assembly. However, you will probably need a Phillips-head screwdriver to secure window-lock screws, and some models have a screw-in exhaust vent.
The main part of the installation is securing the exhaust hose. This piece attaches to the back of the air conditioning unit and, most often, vents out a window. Here are the key steps to accomplish that:
- Select a location near a window and an outlet. (It is not advisable to use an extension cord.)
- Install the window adapter kit as instructed. Typically, if you will be venting through a sliding door, you would rotate the kit 90 degrees and follow the installation instructions.
- Attach window locks (if needed).
- Connect the exhaust hose from the air conditioner to the window or sliding door.
- If you will be using a drainage hose, attach that now.
- Plug the unit in. You are ready to go!
If you plan to run the exhaust through a drop ceiling, you will need to create an opening in the ceiling to allow the exhaust hose through. To prevent air leaks, you will need to seal any gaps around the hose with adhesive foam.
Our top picks: Installation and ventilation requirements
- Whynter ARC-1230WN 14,000-Btu Air Conditioner: This unit is extremely easy to install with the included window kit and offers both vertical and horizontal installation options.
- Whynter Portable Air Conditioner 14,000-Btu with Dual Hose: Users praise the easy installation of this model, which comes with everything you need to set it up.
- Dreo 12,000-Btu Portable Air Conditioner: Users find that the Dreo is easy to install and appreciate that the instructions are clear and simple to follow. It comes with a window kit and insulation material for your convenience.
- BLACK+DECKER 8,000-Btu Portable Air Conditioner: This model is super easy to install and comes with a window kit that includes a foam seal, slider bracket, exhaust hose, hose inlet and outlet, locking screws and a drain hose.
- DREO 8,000-Btu Portable Air Conditioner: Users rave about how easy this unit is to set up and appreciate the installation videos the brand provides.
Design and aesthetics
Even the smallest portable air conditioner is too large to be considered unobtrusive. In other words, it's not something you can hide. So, the best strategy is to purchase one that fits with your decor or, at the very least, doesn't stick out.
Luckily, most manufacturers have thought about this. That is why portable air conditioners are made in neutral colors such as black or white. If your room has dark colors, a black portable air conditioner may be the better choice. If your room is bright with white or beige, a white model may be less noticeable.
To help keep an air conditioner from being obtrusive, look for a simple design with clean lines. While LEDs and other flashy control panels might seem like good options, they can draw unwanted attention.
Our top picks: Design and aesthetics
- Whynter ARC-1230WN 14,000-Btu Air Conditioner: This sleek white model can blend in easily into a room with a light color palette.
- Whynter Portable Air Conditioner 14,000-Btu with Dual Hose: This two-tone unit features black-and-white accents and a smooth front that complements modern decor.
- Dreo 12,000-Btu Portable Air Conditioner: This is an attractive unit that comes in a range of colors, including gold, silver and black.
- BLACK+DECKER 8,000-Btu Portable Air Conditioner: This compact unit is ideal for small spaces, and its neutral white color helps it blend into most rooms.
- DREO 8,000-Btu Portable Air Conditioner: This streamlined model comes in all-white, so it virtually disappears into a room.
Additional features to consider
In addition to cooling a room down, today's portable air conditioners have a lot to offer. Here are some features to keep an eye out for.
- Intuitive controls: This means that the controls are easy to use without the need for consulting an instruction manual.
- Auto-off: It's an energy-saving function that automatically powers off the unit after a specific amount of time.
- Temperature select: This allows you to set the preferred temperature you want the air conditioner to maintain.
- Programmable timer: This is an excellent feature for nighttime use. You can set a timer that automatically shuts off the unit.
- Remote operation: A remote allows you to control the unit's power, temperature and speed settings from afar.
- Smart operation: Many air conditioners are Wi-Fi compatible and can integrate to your existing smart home network.
- Voice control: Hands-free voice control is convenient for controlling the unit without touching the control panel or remote.
- Adjustable speeds: Faster speeds circulate air more rapidly, but slower speeds are best for not-so-hot temperatures where you just want a calm breeze to cool things down.
- A variety of modes: The most versatile air conditioners also function as dehumidifiers and fans.
- Adjustable air direction: Most air conditioners have adjustable ventilation ports for directing air in the direction you want.
- Dimmable lights or night mode: LED control panels can be distracting at night, but a night mode or dimmable lights work wonders to minimize nighttime distractions.
FAQ
Q. How much does a portable air conditioner cost?
A. Portable air conditioners usually cost between $150 and $800. Models with 5,000 to 8,000 Btus that work for smaller rooms generally range from $150 to $350. Portable air conditioners that deliver 10,000 to 12,000 Btus and are powerful enough for midsize rooms typically cost $350 to $550. For models that provide over 12,000 Btus and can cover large areas, expect to spend $550 to $800.
Q. How many Btus does a portable air conditioner need?
A. It depends on the area you want to cool and other factors, such as how insulated it is, how many windows the space has, how high its ceilings are and how many people usually occupy the room. In general, you’ll want a model that delivers between 5,000 and 8,000 Btus for areas between 150 and 350 square feet. For midsize rooms measuring 350 to 550 square feet, look for a unit with 10,000 to 12,000 Btus. Rooms that are larger than 550 square feet typically require a portable air conditioner with at least 14,000 Btus.
Q. Do all portable air conditioners need to be vented out a window?
A. All portable air conditioners must vent hot air outside, but it doesn’t necessarily have to be through a window. You can also vent a portable AC unit through a wall, a door, a chimney, a drop ceiling or even a dryer vent.
Our expertise
Before joining BestReviews as a product writer in 2018, Allen Foster worked at one of the country's largest home-improvement retailers. As part of his training, he attended many seminars and workshops on home products, from learning about tools and appliances to learning how to accommodate customer needs. He’s a knowledgeable DIYer who performs most of his own home repairs and worked in construction after college.
