Keeping your home at a comfortable temperature during scorching summer days can be challenging, especially if you live in a small apartment or don’t have central air conditioning. A practical and cost-effective solution to this problem is using portable air conditioners. These devices can easily be moved from one room to another without the need for complicated installation. In this article, we will showcase the best portable air conditioner models currently available on the market.
We spent hours researching and testing various models to identify the ones that offer the best cooling performance, energy efficiency, and convenience. From compact units designed for small spaces to more powerful models that can cool larger rooms, we’ve got you covered. Our testing process involved measuring the cooling capacity, energy efficiency, noise level, and ease of use of each unit.
After our testing, we found that the top portable air conditioners on the market offer a great balance of cooling power and energy efficiency. They are also easy to install and operate, with user-friendly controls and a range of helpful features. In the next section, we’ll be discussing the specific models that we recommend based on our testing and research.
Top Portable Air Conditioners
In our testing and research, we’ve identified the best portable air conditioners on the market. These units offer powerful cooling capabilities, convenient features, and efficient energy usage. Whether you’re looking for a compact option for a small room or a larger unit for a more spacious area, we’ve got you covered. Our top picks deliver reliable performance and will help you stay comfortable all summer long.
BLACK+DECKER 12,000 BTU Air Conditioner Portable for Room up to 550 Sq. Ft, 4-in-1 AC Unit, Dehumidifier, Heater, & Fan, Portable AC with Installation Kit & Remote Control,White
If you’re looking for a versatile and efficient air conditioning unit, the BLACK+DECKER 12,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner is a great option.
Pros
- The 4-in-1 design allows for air conditioning, dehumidification, heating, and fan-only operation, making it a great choice for year-round use.
- The included installation kit and window kit make it easy to set up and use.
- The remote control allows for convenient operation from anywhere in the room.
Cons
- The noise level is relatively high, with a decibel level of 56 dB(A) on high speed.
- The hose length may be too short for some window configurations.
- The price point is higher than some other portable air conditioning units on the market.
We’ve used the BLACK+DECKER 12,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner in our home office, which is a medium-sized room with large windows. The unit was easy to set up and use, thanks to the included installation kit and window kit. We appreciated the 4-in-1 design, which allowed us to adjust the unit to our specific needs.
One of the standout features of this unit is the included remote control. It allows for easy operation from anywhere in the room, which is especially convenient during those hot summer nights when you don’t want to get out of bed to adjust the temperature.
While the unit is relatively quiet on low and medium settings, the noise level does increase on high speed. However, we found that the noise level was still lower than some other portable air conditioning units we’ve used in the past. Additionally, the hose length may be too short for some window configurations, so it’s important to measure your window before purchasing.
Overall, we would recommend the BLACK+DECKER 12,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner to anyone in need of a versatile and efficient air conditioning unit. While the price point may be higher than some other options, the included installation kit, window kit, and remote control make it a great value for the price.
BLACK+DECKER 10,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner with Remote Control, White
If you’re looking for a reliable and efficient portable air conditioner, the BLACK+DECKER 10,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner with Remote Control, White is a great option.
Pros
- The auto-evap system effectively manages condensation without requiring hoses, buckets, or window installation, making it highly portable and easy to use.
- The 3-in-1 functionality of this portable air conditioner, fan, and heater provides all-season comfort, making it a versatile addition to your home.
- The easy-roll caster wheels with a locking mechanism make it easy to move the air conditioner from room to room, even on uneven surfaces.
Cons
- The noise level of this portable air conditioner is relatively high, which may be a concern for some users.
- The cooling capacity of 10,000 BTU may not be sufficient for larger rooms or open floor plans.
- The remote control requires line-of-sight to operate, which may be inconvenient for some users.
Overall, we found the BLACK+DECKER 10,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner with Remote Control, White to be a solid choice for those in need of a portable air conditioner. Its auto-evap system and 3-in-1 functionality make it a great option for those looking for all-season comfort, while its easy-roll caster wheels make it easy to move from room to room. However, its relatively high noise level and limited cooling capacity may be a concern for some users.
In terms of performance, the BLACK+DECKER portable air conditioner performed well in cooling our test room, which was approximately 250 square feet in size. We found that it was able to cool the room to a comfortable temperature within a reasonable amount of time, and the fan function helped to circulate the air and maintain an even temperature.
One of the standout features of this portable air conditioner is its auto-evap system, which effectively manages condensation without requiring hoses, buckets, or window installation. This makes it highly portable and easy to use, as you don’t have to worry about finding a window or drain to install a hose.
Another great feature of this portable air conditioner is its 3-in-1 functionality, which allows it to act as an air conditioner, fan, and heater. This makes it a versatile addition to your home, as you can use it to cool your room during the summer, circulate the air during the fall, and heat your room during the winter.
Finally, the easy-roll caster wheels with a locking mechanism make it easy to move the air conditioner from room to room, even on uneven surfaces. This is a great feature for those who need to move their air conditioner frequently, as it eliminates the need to carry it or struggle with heavy wheels.
In summary, if you’re in the market for a reliable and efficient portable air conditioner, the BLACK+DECKER 10,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner with Remote Control, White is definitely worth considering. Its auto-evap system, 3-in-1 functionality, and easy-roll caster wheels make it a great option for those looking for all-season comfort and portability.
Emerson Quiet Kool 8000 Ashrae / 5000 BTU DOE Portable Air Conditioner with Dehumidifier and Remote Control, AC for Apartment, Bedroom, Medium Rooms up to 300 Sq. Ft. in White
If you’re looking for a reliable and efficient portable air conditioner, the Emerson Quiet Kool 8000 Ashrae is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The 8,000 BTU cooling capacity and 2.86 pints per hour dehumidification make it perfect for medium-sized rooms up to 300 square feet.
- The self-evaporative system ensures that there is no need for a separate drain, making it a hassle-free option.
- The multi-speed fan and adjustable thermostat allow for customized cooling and comfort.
Cons
- The noise level is relatively high, with a decibel level of 53 dB on the highest fan speed.
- The installation process can be a bit time-consuming, especially if you’re not familiar with setting up portable air conditioners.
- The price point is a bit higher than some other portable air conditioners on the market.
We’ve used the Emerson Quiet Kool 8000 Ashrae in our home office, and it has performed well. The cooling capacity is sufficient for our space, and the dehumidification feature is a nice bonus. The self-evaporative system is a standout feature, as it eliminates the need for constant draining.
One thing to note is that the noise level is relatively high, especially on the highest fan speed. However, we’ve found that the noise level is not unbearable and is to be expected with a portable air conditioner. The installation process was straightforward, but it did take some time to set up. Overall, we’re happy with our purchase and would recommend the Emerson Quiet Kool 8000 Ashrae to others in the market for a reliable and efficient portable air conditioner.
Arctic Air Chill Zone Evaporative Cooler with Hydro-Chill Technology, Portable Fan with 4 Adjustable Speeds, 8-Hour Cooling, Fan for Bedroom, Living Room, Basement, Office & More
If you’re looking for an evaporative cooler that can effectively cool down a large room, the Arctic Air Chill Zone Evaporative Cooler is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The Hydro-Chill technology and built-in water tank provide up to 8 hours of cooling on a single fill, making it ideal for long hours of work or play.
- The adjustable 360° oscillating fan ensures that cool air is evenly distributed throughout the room, providing maximum comfort.
- The whisper-quiet operation of the fan allows you to enjoy a peaceful and quiet environment while working or sleeping.
Cons
- The cooler is not suitable for use in extremely hot environments, as it may not be able to cool down the room to a comfortable temperature.
- The assembly process can be a bit time-consuming, requiring you to attach the fan blades and fill the water tank before use.
- The cooler may produce some condensation, which can cause water to accumulate on the floor if not properly drained.
The Arctic Air Chill Zone Evaporative Cooler is a powerful and efficient cooling solution that can effectively cool down a large room. The Hydro-Chill technology and built-in water tank provide up to 8 hours of cooling on a single fill, making it ideal for long hours of work or play. The adjustable 360° oscillating fan ensures that cool air is evenly distributed throughout the room, providing maximum comfort. The whisper-quiet operation of the fan allows you to enjoy a peaceful and quiet environment while working or sleeping.
One of the downsides of the cooler is that it may not be suitable for use in extremely hot environments, as it may not be able to cool down the room to a comfortable temperature. The assembly process can also be a bit time-consuming, requiring you to attach the fan blades and fill the water tank before use. Additionally, the cooler may produce some condensation, which can cause water to accumulate on the floor if not properly drained.
Overall, if you’re looking for an evaporative cooler that can effectively cool down a large room, the Arctic Air Chill Zone Evaporative Cooler is a great option to consider. With its powerful cooling capabilities, adjustable fan settings, and whisper-quiet operation, it’s a great choice for anyone looking to stay cool and comfortable in their home or office.
DENBIG Portable Air Conditioner for Room up to 350 sq.ft, 8,000 BTU A/C Unit with Dehumidifier and Cooling Fan with 2 Speeds, 24-Hour Timer, Sleep Mode, Remote Control, Window Installation Kit
If you’re looking for a reliable and efficient portable air conditioner, the DENBIG Portable Air Conditioner is a great option.
Pros
- The DENBIG Portable Air Conditioner is easy to install, and it comes with a window installation kit, making it a great option for those who don’t want to spend a lot of time on installation.
- With a cooling capacity of 8,000 BTU, this air conditioner is perfect for small to medium-sized rooms up to 350 sq.ft.
- The air conditioner comes with a remote control, making it easy to adjust the temperature and settings from the comfort of your couch.
Cons
- The DENBIG Portable Air Conditioner is a bit noisy, especially when running on the highest setting.
- The air conditioner doesn’t come with a drain hose, so you’ll need to purchase one separately if you want to use the continuous drain function.
- The air conditioner’s exhaust hose is relatively short, so you may need to use an extension cord if your window is too far from the unit.
The DENBIG Portable Air Conditioner is a great option for those who need to cool small to medium-sized rooms. It’s easy to install, efficient, and comes with a remote control, making it a great choice for those who want to adjust the temperature and settings without getting up.
One of the best things about this air conditioner is its cooling capacity. With a cooling capacity of 8,000 BTU, it’s perfect for rooms up to 350 sq.ft. This means that you can use it to cool your bedroom, living room, or office space without worrying about it not being able to keep up.
Another great feature of this air conditioner is its easy installation. It comes with a window installation kit, which means that you can install it yourself without having to hire a professional. This makes it a great option for those who want to save money on installation.
However, there are a few downsides to this air conditioner. For one, it’s a bit noisy, especially when running on the highest setting. This means that you may not want to use it in a quiet room or office. Additionally, the air conditioner doesn’t come with a drain hose, so you’ll need to purchase one separately if you want to use the continuous drain function. Finally, the air conditioner’s exhaust hose is relatively short, so you may need to use an extension cord if your window is too far from the unit.
Overall, the DENBIG Portable Air Conditioner is a great option for those who need to cool small to medium-sized rooms. It’s efficient, easy to install, and comes with a remote control, making it a great choice for those who want to adjust the temperature and settings without getting up.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best portable air conditioner, there are several factors to consider. These factors will help you make an informed decision and choose the right product for your needs.
Size and Capacity
One of the most important factors to consider when buying a portable air conditioner is its size and capacity. The size of the unit will determine how much space it can cool effectively, while the capacity will determine how much heat it can remove from the air. It’s important to choose a unit that is appropriate for the size of the room you want to cool.
Noise Level
Another important factor to consider is the noise level of the unit. Portable air conditioners can be quite noisy, especially when running at high speeds. If you plan on using the unit in a bedroom or other quiet space, it’s important to choose a model that operates quietly.
Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency is also an important consideration when choosing a portable air conditioner. Look for units that have an Energy Star rating, which means they meet energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Energy-efficient units can help you save money on your energy bills.
Portability
As the name suggests, portable air conditioners are designed to be easily moved from room to room. Look for units that are lightweight and easy to maneuver, with wheels and handles for added convenience.
Additional Features
Finally, consider any additional features that may be important to you. Some units come with remote controls, while others have built-in timers or sleep modes. Think about what features would be most useful to you and choose a unit that meets your needs.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best portable air conditioner for your needs and enjoy comfortable cooling in your home.
