Top 4 Best Portable Air Conditioners
Updated June 2023
It's summer time again and the weather is heating up. If your home or office doesn't have central air conditioning and you want to bring the temperatures down, then you're going to need to get a portable air conditioner. The decision to get an air conditioner is a simple one. Finding the right one for you? Well, that's not quite as easy as one would think, mainly due to the fact that there are about several dozen different models of AC's on the market, all of which to the layman may seem no different to one another. We know that "choice overload" can be a serious problem for consumers, which is why created this buying guide.
With the goal of helping our readers make a better, more informed buying decision, we invested over 28 hours into researching and comparing about 40 different portable air conditioners. We then narrowed the field down to the seven best units. Our selections were based primarily on the following 5 factors: cooling power, user-friendliness of controls, ease of installation, portability and price.
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Best Overall: BLACK+DECKER 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner
If you want to purchase the best, most effective portable air conditioner on the market and price is not a big concern, then the BLACK+DECKER BPACT14WT is the one you want. This unit possesses an extremely impressive cooling capacity of 14,000 BTU’s, which is the highest output of any AC unit we looked at and will allow it to cool a room as large as 500 sq. ft. It also has a slew of great features and accessories that make this device safe, easy-to-use and install.
There are several user-friendly features that have been integrated into the unit, including a digital LED display that allows for easy temperature adjustment and mode selection. The included remote control enhances convenience, enabling users to adjust settings from anywhere in the room.
Best Value: SereneLife SLPAC8 8,000 BTU 3-in-1 Portable Air Conditioner
The SereneLife SLPAC8 is a top rated portable air conditioner and another excellent choice. Although not as powerful as the BLACK+DECKER above, this is still a very effective air conditioner with a cooling capacity of 8,000 BTU’s, enabling it to cool rooms and areas up to 350 sq. ft. in size.
This unit also works as a dehumidifier with a dehumidifying capacity of 1.2L per hour. And what’s great about this machine is that you have the choice of using it as an air conditioner/dehumidifier alone or you can have both functions working simultaneously. Additionally, this unit operates at a fairly quiet 55 dbA, which is quite impressive for a portable air conditioner of this size and power.
Best Budget Model: MEATSONO CL-08 Evaporative Air Cooler
The MEATSONO CL-08 is a versatile and efficient cooling solution that combines functionality with portability. Designed to cool smaller spaces, this evaporative air cooler offers an alternative to traditional air conditioners, providing relief from the heat in a cost-effective and environmentally friendly way.
In addition to cooling, it also acts as a humidifier and air purifier. By adding water to the built-in tank, the unit releases a refreshing mist, increasing humidity and relieving dry air discomfort. The air purifier feature helps remove dust particles and allergens, enhancing indoor air quality for a healthier environment.
It also consumes less power compared to traditional air conditioners, resulting in lower energy costs. Additionally, as an evaporative air cooler, it uses the natural process of evaporation to cool the air, consuming significantly less energy than refrigerant-based air conditioners. This makes it an environmentally friendly choice for those seeking sustainable cooling solutions.
4Best Window Air Conditioner: Midea U Shaped 8,000 BTU
Unlike the other air conditioners on this list which you place on the floor and vent the hot air out via an exhaust hose, the Midea is a window-mounted unit that does not require an exhaust hose, as it sits partially outside of your room/building. This setup slightly increases the efficiency of the air conditioning process because there is no “leakage” that exists with portable air conditioners in which a small amount of hot air travelling through the exhaust hose will escape into the room (although this disadvantage can be minimized by placing the unit closer to the window). This efficiency advantage gives this unit a slight edge over portable AC’s with comparable BTU’s.
You should be aware, though, that the Midea (and all window-mounted AC’s for that matter) does have a disadvantage compared to portable AC’s in that it’s much more difficult to install, and there’s also the extra burden of having to lift a machine that weighs almost 60 pounds up onto a window.
Portable Air Conditioner Buying Guide
When the scorching heat of summer arrives or you simply need to cool down a specific area, a portable air conditioner can be a convenient and efficient solution. Whether you're looking to cool a bedroom, office, or any other space, this guide is here to help you navigate through the essential factors to consider before making your purchase. From cooling capacity and energy efficiency to noise levels and control options, we'll walk you through the key features to look for when choosing a portable air conditioner. So, let's dive in and ensure you make an informed decision to beat the heat and enjoy a comfortable environment wherever you go.
Cooling Capacity: The cooling capacity of an air conditioner is measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units). Consider the size of the room you want to cool and choose a portable air conditioner with the appropriate BTU rating. A higher BTU rating is required for larger rooms. As a general rule, a 5,000-8,000 BTU unit is suitable for rooms up to 200 square feet, while a 10,000-12,000 BTU unit can cool rooms up to 400 square feet.
Energy Efficiency: Look for an air conditioner with a high Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) or Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER). Higher EER or SEER ratings indicate better energy efficiency and can save you money on electricity bills in the long run. Energy Star certified models are a good choice as they meet strict energy efficiency standards.
Noise Level: Consider the noise level of the portable air conditioner, especially if you plan to use it in a bedroom or an office. Look for models that have a low noise output, usually measured in decibels (dB). Quieter units provide a more comfortable environment for relaxation or work.
Ventilation: Portable air conditioners require proper ventilation. They extract hot air from the room and release it outside through a vent. Most models come with an exhaust hose and window installation kit. Make sure the unit you choose is compatible with your window type and has an easy-to-install venting system.
Dehumidification: Many portable air conditioners also have built-in dehumidification capabilities. If you live in a humid climate or want to reduce excess moisture in the air, consider a unit with a dehumidification function. Look for the pint-per-day rating, which indicates the amount of moisture the unit can remove.
Control Options: Check the available control options. Some portable air conditioners come with a remote control for convenient operation from across the room. Others may have Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing you to control and monitor the unit through a smartphone app. Consider which features are important to you for ease of use.
Portability: Look for units with casters or wheels for easy mobility. Consider the weight and size of the air conditioner, as well as the availability of handles for lifting. Portability is particularly important if you plan to move the unit between rooms or store it when not in use.
Filter Maintenance: Check the type of air filter used in the portable air conditioner. Removable and washable filters are convenient and cost-effective since you can clean and reuse them. Some units also come with filter indicators that remind you when it's time to clean or replace the filter.
Price and Warranty: Compare prices and consider the value for money. Take into account the features, cooling capacity, and energy efficiency of the unit. Additionally, check the warranty offered by the manufacturer to ensure you have proper coverage in case of any issues.
Customer Reviews: Lastly, read customer reviews and ratings to gather insights from other users. This can provide valuable information about the performance, reliability, and user experience of the portable air conditioner you're considering.
Remember to consider your specific requirements, room size, and preferences when choosing a portable air conditioner. By considering these factors, you'll be able to find a suitable unit that meets your cooling needs.