Finding the perfect portable air conditioner can feel overwhelming, especially with the numerous models and features available.
I’ve researched some of the most popular options on the market to help you make the best choice for your cooling needs.
Whether you’re looking for energy efficiency, smart technology, or quiet operation, this list has something for everyone.
Here’s Our Top Picks of The Best Portable Air Conditioners in 2025
- Four-in-One Unit: Our 14,000 BTU ASHRAE (10,200 BTU SACC) air conditioner also offers 10,000 BTU Heat for cold winter months. Portable AC with heat also functions as a dehumidifier & fan
- Portable AC: Take this personal air conditioner (16.5” x 14.06” x 27.09) in rooms up to 700 sq. ft. Stay cool in the hot summer months and sleep well with this BLACK+DECKER ac unit for bedroom
- Three-in-One Unit: Our 14,000 BTU ASHRAE (10,200 BTU SACC) air conditioner also functions as a dehumidifier & fan. This portable air conditioner has a full function remote control & top mounted control panel with LED display
- Portable AC: Take this personal air conditioner (16.5” x 14.06” x 27.09) in rooms up to 700 sq. ft. Stay cool in the hot summer months and sleep well with this BLACK+DECKER ac unit for bedroom
- INNOVATIVE DUO HOSE DESIGN – Midea’s industry-first dual hose-in-hose design enables the unit to intake and exhaust air outdoors. The dual hose-in-hose design forms balanced air circulation indoors and prevents hot outside air from seeping in through gaps.
- INVERTER TECHNOLOGY – Engineered with the variable-speed inverter technology, Midea Duo Inverter portable AC cools more with considerably less electricity than traditional portable units. It saves more than 40% energy compared to U.S. federal standard
- 【𝐅𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐂𝐨𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 𝐏𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐀𝐂 𝐔𝐩 𝐭𝐨 𝟕𝟎𝟎 𝐬𝐪.𝐟𝐭】14,000 BTU cooling with an enlarged 77° air outlet, using eco-friendly R32 refrigerant for faster, greener cooling. No more waiting hours to escape the heat—cools rooms from 90 to 61°F in just a short time (exhaust hose installation is required). Compact and energy-saving, it balances rapid cooling with quiet operation for year-round comfort.
- 【𝐀 𝐆𝐨𝐨𝐝 𝐍𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐒𝐥𝐞𝐞𝐩】Designed for light sleepers, our noise-reduction technology keeps sound levels as low as 48dB—quieter than a library conversation. Activate Sleep Mode to dim the display, reduce fan noise, and maintain your ideal temperature all night without disruptions.
- 【12000BTU Powerful Cooling】This air conditioner boasts 12000BTU strong cooling capacity, delivering rapid temperature drop and covering up to 550 sq. ft space—ideal for bedrooms, living rooms, or home offices, keeping you cool even on the hottest days.
- 【3-in-1 Versatile Modes】Our portable ac unit is quipped with cooling, dehumidifying, and fresh air modes to adapt to various scenarios: beat the heat in summer, reduce water in rainy seasons, or circulate fresh air for daily ventilation.
- 【”Smart Life” APP Control】- Control your air conditioner anytime, anywhere with the “Smart Life” APP! Simply connect the device to the app via Wi-Fi once, and you can power it on/off, adjust temperature, and set fan speed remotely—no need to interrupt your activities. Create your perfect comfort zone with just a few taps
- 【OUTSTANDING COOLING ABILITY】- Shinco powerful ac unit owns a cooling capacity of 12,000 BTU(ASHRAE) / 7,500 BTU(SACC)(Tolerance of 5% between the measured cooling capacity and the nominal cooling capacity), making it perfect for cooling small to medium-sized spaces up to 400sq.ft with ease and making you can enjoy a comfortable and refreshing environment even in the hottest summer days. The adjustable temperature range of 60℉-86℉ allows you to customize your cooling experience to your liking
- 【POWERFUL COOLING CAPACITY】The 10,000 BTU portable air conditioners will provide powerful cooling air for rooms up to 450 sq. ft. It’s a portable ac unit with wheels for rooms like living room,office, bedroom, kitchen, storeroom, garage, etc, helping to create a comfortable atmosphere in hot summer. The settable cooling temperature is between 61℉ – 90℉
- 【3-IN-1 FUNCTIONAL AC】This portable ac acts as a fan, air cooler and dehumidifier. These three modes can be switched randomly to not only release cold wind or cold air but also reduce air moisture to provide you and your family a healthy indoor environment
- Versatile 3-in-1 Comfort – Enjoy ultimate flexibility with three tailored modes: Fan for air circulation, Dry for reducing humidity, and Cool for refreshing relief on hot days—perfect for creating your ideal indoor environment.
- Hassle-Free, No-Drain Operation – Designed for convenience, our unit automatically evaporates and expels condensation, eliminating the need for manual draining—even in humid conditions.
- 【Fasting Cooling】- ZAFRO 10,000 BTU portable air conditioner is suitable for rooms up to 450 sq.ft. Help you get a cool room temp in the sweltering summer.
- 【Energy Efficient】- Compared to the traditional large volume ac on the market, ZAFRO compact ac can spend the least amount of money for the same cooling capacity. It’s an ideal choice for many families.
- 8500 BTU POWER COOLING EFFICIENT: Portable air conditioner equipped with an 8500BTU(ASHRAE) ultra-powerful cooling engine, this portable ac unit delivers instant relief from scorching heat. Achieves a 61℉ temperature drop within 8–15 minutes through advanced dual-turbo airflow technology, The adjustable temperature range of 61℉-104℉, effectively cooling areas up to 450 sq.ft. Ac portable air conditioner for Ideal for bedrooms, home offices, apartments, or open-concept spaces.
- 3-IN-1 COOLING/DRY/FAN FUNCTION: The cooling function of the portable AC allows you to freely adjust the temperature, ranging from (61℉ to 104℉) in hot environment. The dry function maintains optimal humidity levels by absorbing airborne moisture while circulating drier air, enhancing comfort during humid conditions. The fan function in air conditioners circulates indoor air without cooling, promoting airflow to enhance comfort and maintain consistent temperature distribution.
- Cools area up to 250 sq ft room (12.5 ft X 20 ft) / SACC 6,000 capacity (DOE) cools small rooms up to 250 sq ft / 3 modes, cool, dehumidify, fan / Programmable 24-hour on/off timer cools on your schedule
- Remote Control is included – Easily adjust the settings from anywhere in the room with the included remote control, providing you with effortless control over your AC unit.
- Powerful and Efficient Cooling：This 8500 BTU portable air conditioner is powered by R32 refrigerant, offering fast and energy-efficient cooling for spaces up to 360 sq. ft. It can cool Partial in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for bedrooms, offices, and small living areas. With a temperature range of 61°F to 88°F, you can enjoy customized comfort even on the hottest days.
- 4-in-1 Versatile Functionality：Enjoy 4 modes—Cooling, Fan, Dehumidifier, and Sleep Mode—to meet all your needs. With a 55 L/day dehumidifying capacity, this portable ac unit for rooms ensures a comfortable and dry environment.
- ❄️【𝟒-𝐈𝐍-𝟏 𝐄𝐯𝐚𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐀𝐢𝐫 𝐂𝐨𝐨𝐥𝐞𝐫 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐃𝐫𝐲 𝐂𝐥𝐢𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬】CENSTECH Swamp Cooler functions as an Air Cooler, Humidifier, and a Fan. Unlike conventional ACs, the evaporative air cooler provides optimal cooling and humidity, enhancing your living and work spaces without excessive drying, helping to keep skin hydrated. Tailored for areas like the Southwestern US, California, and New Mexico, where summers can be uncomfortably dry.
- ❄️【𝟑 𝐌𝐨𝐝𝐞𝐬 & 𝟑 𝐒𝐩𝐞𝐞𝐝𝐬】With 3 fan speeds(low-12ft/s, medium-19ft/s, and high-26ft/s) delivering a cooling breeze at up to 26 ft/s. Choose from 3 modes(Normal/Sleep/Cooling): Normal for daily use, Sleep for restful nights, and Cooling for maximum cooling effect. Beat the heat effortlessly and enjoy a cool, comfortable living space with CENSTECH portable air conditioners!
Whynter Dual Hose Portable Air Conditioner
When it comes to cooling efficiency, the Whynter Dual Hose Portable Air Conditioner is a game-changer. With its dual hose system, it provides faster cooling than most single-hose units and is ideal for large spaces.
Pros
- Efficient cooling: The dual-hose system ensures quicker and more effective temperature reduction.
- Eco-friendly: It uses CFC-free refrigerants and is RoHS-compliant.
- Built-in dehumidifier: Great for humid climates.
- Easy mobility: Comes with casters for convenient movement.
Cons
- Noise level: It can be a bit loud, especially at higher fan speeds.
- Bulky design: Takes up more space than some competitors.
TCL 5P93C Smart Series Portable Air Conditioner
The TCL 5P93C combines smart technology with powerful cooling, making it a great choice for tech enthusiasts.
Pros
- Wi-Fi enabled: Control it via your smartphone or voice assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant.
- Energy efficiency: Features an Energy Star rating.
- Compact design: Fits well in smaller rooms or apartments.
- Quiet operation: Runs smoothly without disruptive noise.
Cons
- Price: Slightly higher than comparable models without smart features.
- Setup: Initial setup can be tricky for some users.
BLACK+DECKER BPACT08WT Portable Air Conditioner
A budget-friendly option, the BLACK+DECKER BPACT08WT is perfect for smaller spaces and occasional use.
Pros
- Affordable: Offers excellent value for the price.
- Compact: Lightweight and easy to move.
- Quick installation: Straightforward setup with minimal tools required.
Cons
- Limited cooling capacity: Best for small rooms up to 150 square feet.
- Lacks smart features: No Wi-Fi or app compatibility.
Honeywell Portable Evaporative Cooler with Fan
While not a traditional air conditioner, the Honeywell Portable Evaporative Cooler is an eco-friendly cooling solution that works well in dry climates.
Pros
- Low energy consumption: Consumes significantly less electricity than AC units.
- Eco-friendly: No refrigerants needed.
- Humidifies air: Adds moisture to dry indoor environments.
Cons
- Not suitable for humid areas: Works best in arid climates.
- Limited cooling: Less effective than a standard AC unit.
DeLonghi PAC-UV Portable Air Conditioner
The DeLonghi PAC-UV stands out with its built-in UV-C technology for cleaner air, making it a great choice for those prioritizing air quality.
Pros
- Air purification: UV-C technology kills bacteria and allergens.
- Powerful cooling: Suitable for larger spaces.
- Energy-saving mode: Reduces energy consumption during extended use.
Cons
- Cost: On the higher end of the price spectrum.
- Weight: Heavier than many other portable units.
LG Smart Portable Air Conditioner
LG’s Smart Portable Air Conditioner combines performance with convenience, offering advanced controls and efficient cooling.
Pros
- Smart features: Wi-Fi enabled for remote control and scheduling.
- Quiet operation: Ideal for bedrooms or offices.
- Reliable performance: Consistently maintains desired temperatures.
Cons
- Price: Higher cost due to smart features.
- Size: Slightly bulkier than non-smart units.
Whynter ARC-12SDH Portable Air Conditioner and Heater
If you’re looking for a versatile unit that works year-round, the Whynter ARC-12SDH is worth considering.
Pros
- Dual functionality: Serves as both an air conditioner and a heater.
- Durable: Built with high-quality materials for longevity.
- Energy-efficient: Keeps utility bills in check.
Cons
- Noise: Slightly noisier due to the dual functionality.
- Cost: More expensive than single-purpose units.
EcoFlow Wave 2 Portable Air Conditioner
The EcoFlow Wave 2 is a portable powerhouse with cutting-edge battery technology for on-the-go cooling.
Pros
- Battery-operated: Ideal for outdoor use or areas without easy access to power.
- Compact: Designed for portability.
- Fast cooling: Cools down small spaces quickly.
Cons
- Battery life: Limited runtime on battery power.
- Price: Premium cost due to advanced technology.
How to spot a bad portable air conditioner
Spotting a bad portable air conditioner can save you money and frustration. Avoid units that have consistently poor reviews, lack essential features like adjustable settings or timers, or are made with low-quality materials. Units with a high noise level or inadequate cooling for their BTU rating are also red flags.
What type of portable air conditioner is best?
The best portable air conditioner depends on your specific needs. If you value energy efficiency, look for models with Energy Star ratings. For tech-savvy users, Wi-Fi-enabled units are great. Dual-hose systems are ideal for large spaces, while single-hose systems are better suited for smaller areas.
How many BTUs should a portable AC be?
The BTU rating depends on the size of the room you want to cool. As a rule of thumb:
- Up to 300 sq. ft.: 8,000-10,000 BTUs
- 300-500 sq. ft.: 10,000-14,000 BTUs
- Over 500 sq. ft.: 14,000+ BTUs
Are portable air conditioners as good as window units?
Portable air conditioners offer flexibility and easy installation but are generally less efficient than window units. Window ACs typically cool spaces faster and use less energy, but they require a permanent installation.
Do portable ACs have to be vented out a window?
Yes, most portable ACs need to be vented out a window to expel hot air. Some models offer venting options through a door or wall, but proper ventilation is essential for effective cooling.
FAQs
Do portable air conditioners have to be vented out a window?
Yes, venting is required for most portable AC units to function effectively.
Is 7000 BTU enough for a bedroom?
It depends on the size. A 7,000 BTU unit is suitable for rooms up to 150-200 sq. ft.
How much area will a 14000 BTU air conditioner cool?
A 14,000 BTU unit can cool spaces up to 500 sq. ft.
Is it okay to run portable AC all night?
Yes, but ensure the unit has an energy-saving mode to prevent excessive electricity use.
Do portable air conditioners use a lot of electricity?
They can be energy-intensive, but units with high energy efficiency ratings help reduce costs.
Can you leave a portable AC on 24/7?
It’s possible, but not recommended for long-term use without breaks to prevent wear and tear.
Do all portable air conditioners need an exhaust hose?
Yes, most require an exhaust hose for venting hot air, though evaporative coolers are an exception.
How long does a portable air conditioner take to cool a room?
Typically, 15-30 minutes, depending on the room size and unit capacity.
How many hours should portable AC run per day?
This varies based on cooling needs but running it intermittently throughout the day is ideal.
Where is the best place to put a portable air conditioner?
Near a window for venting and away from obstructions for optimal airflow.
How often should I drain my portable AC?
Frequency depends on humidity levels. Some units require daily draining, while others are self-evaporating.
Do I need to remove the window screen for a portable air conditioner?
It’s not necessary, but removing the screen can improve venting efficiency.
