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
- 【14000 BTU Powerful Cooling Efficient】Humhold Powerful Portable AC unit owns a cooling capacity of 14,000 BTU(ASHRAE) / 10,000 BTU(SACC), has an most energy efficient compressor that can supply 61F-86F cool air to 550-700 square feet of large space in your living room, bedroom, apartment, home kitchen,and office, stable and fast way to make you feel cool all the time in the hot seasons.
- 【3-in-1 Cooling/Dehumidify/Fan Mode】 The smart portable air conditioner offers the convenience of 4 functions, including Cooling, 3-Speed Fan, and Dehumidify, which meets your needs in hot seasons. You can freely adjust the temperature from 61F to 86F in cooling mode. The Dehumidifier capacity of 95 Pints/day can effectively reduce the humidity in small room, and as a Fan to circulate indoor air all the times, removing excess moisture and releasing fresh air for a healthy and comfortable environment.
- Powerful Cooling Efficient: BLATACY Powerful Portable AC unit owns a cooling capacity of 16,000Btu has an most energy efficient compressor that quickly supply cool air to your large living rooms, bedrooms, apartments, home kitchens, garages, basements, and offices in large spaces up to 730 sq.ft, in a consistent and efficient way that keeps you cool all the way through the hot summer months. Plus, you can customize your cooling experience to your needs with a variety of controls that maintain temperatures from 61°F – 88°F.6
- 5-in-1 Versatile Design: This portable air conditioner offers convenient 5-in-1 functionality including cooling, 3-speed fan, sleep and dehumidification to meet your seasonal needs. You can freely adjust the temperature in cooling mode, ranging from (61°F to 88°F) during the hot season. The dehumidification mode effectively reduces humidity in small rooms and acts as a fan to circulate the air in the room at all times, for precise and intelligent control of your climate5
- Three-in-One Unit: Our 12,000 BTU (8,000 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 11.7” x 27.9) in rooms up to 550 sq. ft. Stay cool in the hot summer months and sleep well with this BLACK+DECKER ac unit for bedroom
- 【𝐅𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐂𝐨𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 𝐏𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐀𝐂 𝐔𝐩 𝐭𝐨 𝟓𝟓𝟎 𝐬𝐪.𝐟𝐭】12,000 BTU cooling with an enlarged 77° air outlet . No more waiting hours to escape the heat—cools rooms 90 – 61°F in 15 mins. Compact and energy-saving, it balances rapid cooling with quiet operation for year-round comfort.
- 【𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐍𝐞𝐞𝐝】 360° Auto-Evaporation Tech converts 80% excess water into cool air while you sleep. No wet messes. Just set the 8-hour sleep timer and more time enjoying!
- ❄️【Unlock Cool Comfort without Breaking the Bank】 Being worried about sky-high summer bills? Let’s start an exceptional cooling journey with our energy-saving and cost-efficient air conditioner. Experience instant room-cooling magic within 3 seconds, all for less than 50 cents a day. Our 10000BTU air conditioning unit effectively cools rooms up to 450 sq.ft., perfect for dorms, apartments, cabins, campers, offices, bedrooms or living rooms.
- ❄️【3-in-1 Versatility for Every Season】 Featured with 3-in-1 modes, our portable air conditioner makes you free to choose from cool/fan/dehumidifier modes tailored to your demands, making itself a smart choice for any season. An upgraded compressor boosts cooling by 80%, maintaining steady performance and whisper-quiet operation. Plus, a high-quality air filter offers the whole family fresh cool air.
- 【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
- 【3-in-1 FUNCTION】- This portable air conditioner is designed with a 3-in-1 function that allows you to choose between cool, fan, and dry modes depending on your needs, making it a smart choice for any season. The dehumidification capacity can be up to 43.2L/day without bucket by self-evaporating operation. You can choose between the 3 fan speeds to get a comfortable feeling
- 【Energy Efficient】- ZAFRO 8,000 BTU portable air conditioner 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. And is suitable for rooms up to 350 sq.ft. It’s an ideal choice for many families.
- 【4 Modes & Low Noise】- Our air conditioner combines 4 modes: Cool, Dehumidifier, Fan, Sleep and equipped with upgraded generation of high-efficiency compressor, which achieves low noise level to ensure no interference in night.
- 3-in-1 Versatility: This portable air conditioner seamlessly integrates cooling, dehumidifying, and fan functions, enabling you to customize your comfort levels to suit your needs—whether you’re dealing with a sweltering summer day or a muggy evening. Plus, with 2 fan speeds, you can easily adjust airflow for optimal comfort.
- Powerful Cooling Capacity: With an 8,000 Btus rating, this AC unit efficiently cools spaces up to 350 sq. ft., making it ideal for bedrooms, living rooms, or home offices. Enjoy a refreshing environment even in larger areas.
- 【3-in-1 Evaporative Air Cooler】Stay cool all summer with our 3-in-1 swamp cooler air conditioner! Our all-in-one air cooler delivers refreshing cool air with a large 6.87-gallon water tank. For an extra boost, freeze the included four ice packs for 24 hours and place them in the tank to enhance the cooling effect, making it cooler than a standard fan.
- 【Advanced Evaporative Cooling】This portable cooler, featuring 2025 technology, delivers powerful cooling with a high-performance motor, innovative airflow, and high-density cooling pads. Lower temperatures by up to 16.2°F (8.9°C) and boost cooling by adding ice reducing your energy bill by up to 65%.
- Powerful Cooling: This 8000 BTUs portable air conditioner effectively cools spaces up to 350 sq. ft, making it a powerful solution for cooling your home or office. This unit rapidly reduces indoor temperatures, ensuring quick cooling. It’s perfect for hot days and stuffy nights, maintaining a refreshing atmosphere.
- Quiet Performance: Designed for quiet operation, it ensures a peaceful environment with minimal noise levels, perfect for any setting where peace and quiet are essential. The AC runs quietly. Enjoy a peaceful environment for rest and work without disruptive noise.
- ❄️【𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 𝐀𝐝𝐯𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐝 𝐂𝐨𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐓𝐞𝐜𝐡𝐧𝐨𝐥𝐨𝐠𝐲】CENSTECH’s upgraded portable evaporative cooler utilize the 2025’s latest cooling technology: high-performance motor, innovative air duct design, and high-density cooling pad. Quickly reduces ambient temperatures by 41-49°F as water evaporates to absorb heat, achieving rapid cooling. Tip: Enhance the cooling effect by adding frozen ice packs to the water tank. (*Tested at 95°F in the lab, the cooling effect varies based on indoor humidity)
- ❄️【𝟒 𝐌𝐨𝐝𝐞𝐬 & 𝟑 𝐒𝐩𝐞𝐞𝐝𝐬】Enjoy personalized cooling with our portable air conditioners which features 4 modes: Cooling/Sleep/Normal/Nature. Adjust settings to your preference and enjoy optimum comfort. Customize airflow with 3 fan speeds (low-13ft/s, medium-20ft/s, and high-27ft/s) for the perfect breeze. With 12 cooling combinations, find the perfect match for all your needs. Indulge in the customized cooling you deserve with our portable swamp cooler indoor!
- 𝟑-𝐢𝐧-𝟏 𝐄𝐯𝐚𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐀𝐢𝐫 𝐂𝐨𝐨𝐥𝐞𝐫 : Beat the summer heat with our 3-in-1 evaporative air cooler! It provides refreshing cool air to your space in an all-in-one device with a separate water tank that can be filled with water for increased cooling effect, and an ice box that can be added to increase the coolness, making it cooler than ordinary fans.
- 𝐀𝐝𝐯𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐝 𝐂𝐨𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐓𝐞𝐜𝐡𝐧𝐨𝐥𝐨𝐠𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐌𝐚𝐱𝐢𝐦𝐮𝐦 𝐄𝐟𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐲：Experience instant relief with our advanced portable air cooler. Engineered with 2025 cooling technology—including a high-performance motor, innovative airflow system, and dense cooling pads—it efficiently absorbs heat through water evaporation. For enhanced cooling, simply add ice to the tank. The energy-saving 65W motor reduces power consumption by up to 65%, delivering eco-friendly comfort
- ❄️ 3-in-1 Functionality: This versatile AEROZY Swamp Cooler can blow, humidify, and cool air, providing comprehensive climate control for your indoor spaces.
- 💡 Energy Efficient: Consumes only 65W, helping you save on your electric bill while providing powerful cooling performance.
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.
