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
- Award-Winning Portable AC Unit: Awarded Good Housekeeping’s 2024 “BEST OVERALL PORTABLE AIR CONDITIONER,” this powerful yet quiet portable air conditioner provides powerful cooling over large areas up to 500 sq. ft.
- Powerful Yet Quiet: The ideal AC unit for bedrooms, this 14,000 BTU indoor air conditioner operates at 51 dBA at low speed and helps you stay cool; Made with the planet in mind, it runs off CFC-free R-32 refrigerant
- PERFECT FOR COOLING SMALL ROOMS: 12,000 BTU ASHRAE/8,150 BTU DOE Provides cold air for areas up to 700 sq. ft., a space equal to the size of a typical family room; Perfect for offices, bedrooms, family rooms, apartments, dorms, cabins, campers, RVs
- FAST COOLING: INSTANT COLD AIR Quickly cool your room in the summer heat and humidity; Set the thermostat to maintain consistent cool temperatures for your maximum comfort; 2 fan speeds and multiple features ensure cold air circulates efficiently
- 𝙂𝙤 𝘽𝙞𝙜 𝙤𝙣 𝘾𝙤𝙤𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙋𝙤𝙬𝙚𝙧: The DREO AC515S portable air conditioner brings massive 12,000 BTU ASHRAE cooling capacity that reaches up to 14 ft. Helping you keep the comfortable temp in the sweltering summer
- 3-𝙞𝙣-1 𝙈𝙤𝙙𝙚 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙁𝙖𝙣 & 𝘿𝙚𝙝𝙪𝙢𝙞𝙙𝙞𝙛𝙞𝙚𝙧: Get more control of the way you cool thanks to the 3-in-1 mode including settings for cooling, dehumidifying and fan control in one, finding the ideal comfort setting is easier than ever with the DREO room air conditioner
- Powerful Yet Quiet Portable Air Conditioner: This 12,000 BTU portable AC unit operates under 42.5 dBA and features convenient Wi-Fi and voice-enabled Smart controls
- Smart Control: The NetHome Plus app allows you to control your AC unit via WiFi from anywhere, plus it’s compatible with Alexa and Google Home voice assistant.
- 【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 cool air to 700 square feet of large space in your living room, bedroom, apartment, home kitchen, garage, basement and office, stable and efficient way to make you feel cool all the time in the hot summer. In addition, you can maintain temperatures from 61°F to 88°F with a variety of controls, allows to customize cooling experience to your needs.
- 【3-in-1 Cooling/Dehumidify/Fan Function】 The smart portable air conditioner offers the convenience of 3-in-1 functions, including Cooling, 3-speeds Fan, and Dehumidify, which meets your daily needs. You can freely adjust the temperature in cooling mode, ranging from (61℉ to 88℉) in hot seasons. The dehumidifier capacity of 95 Pints/day can effectively reduce the humidity in small room, and as a fan to circulate indoor air at all times, removing excess moisture and releasing fresh air for a healthy and comfortable environment.
- Go Big on Cooling Power: The DREO AC515S portable air conditioner brings massive 12,000 BTU ASHRAE cooling capacity that reaches up to 14 ft. Helping you keep the comfortable temp in the sweltering summer
- Isolate Noise, Amplify Comfort: Featuring a new noise isolation system around the compresor, this portable air conditioners reduces noise down to a minimum 46dB, making it ideal for quiet places like bedrooms and offices
- Portable AC: Use this personal air conditioner (15.3” x 14” x 24.8″) in rooms up to 450 sq. ft. Stay cool in the hot summer months and sleep well with this BLACK+DECKER ac unit for bedroom.
- 3-in-1: 3-in-1: Our 5800 BTU DOE (10000 BTU ASHRAE 128) air conditioner also functions as a dehumidifier & fan. This portable air conditioner (47.3 lbs.) has a convenient remote control & top mounted control panel with LED display.
- 【10000 BTU Powerful Cooling Efficient】Humhold Powerful Portable AC unit owns a cooling capacity of 10,000 BTU(ASHRAE), has an most energy efficient compressor that can supply cool air to your 500 square feet living room, bedroom, apartment, home kitchen, and office, stable and efficient way to make you feel cool all the time in the hot season. In addition, you can maintain temperatures from 61°F to 88°F with a variety of controls, allows to customize cooling experience to your needs.
- 【3-in-1 Cooling/Dehumidify/Fan Function】 This smart portable air conditioner offers the convenience of 3 functions, including Cooling, low-high speeds Fan, and Dehumidify, which meets your daily needs. You can freely adjust the temperature in cooling mode, ranging from (61℉ to 88℉) in hot seasons. The dehumidifier capacity of 60 Pints/day can effectively reduce the humidity in small room, and as a fan to circulate indoor air at all times, removing excess moisture and releasing fresh air for a healthy and comfortable environment.
- COOLING: The SereneLife Portable Air Conditioner is perfect for cooling your rooms up to 450 sq ft. with ease, and you can enjoy a comfortable and refreshing environment even on the hottest summer days. (13.8″ x 14.6″ x 27.2″)
- 3-in-1 FUNCTIONS: Our 8,000 BTU compact Portable AC unit features a simple electric plug-in operation and 3 modes – Cooling, Dehumidifier, and Fan. It also features an automatic swing mode w/ moving wind vent for maximum air circulation.
- QUIET & POWERFUL – Our 5,000 BTU SACC/CEC (8,000 BTU ASHRAE) compact air conditioner (17.32 x 13.2 x 27.2 inches and 51.1 lbs) will keep you cool and comfortable all summer. An adjustable fan speed, with up and down auto air swing, cools the air to 64 degrees Fahrenheit at the coolest setting. Sleep mode makes it extra quiet while you rest, 52dB on highest setting.
- FOLLOW ME FUNCTION – The easy to use LCD remote control includes a FOLLOW ME function, which allows the remote to act as a thermostat allowing for more precise temperature control. Also features top-mounted LED display with 24-hour timer.
- Dual-Hose Design: Provides Faster Cooling by eliminating the vacuum effect of standard portable air conditioners. Cool, Dehumidify, and Fan Functions. Program and manage temperature for better efficiency.
- Inverter Technology: Energy efficient (up to 40% more efficiency)
- 3-in-1 : Elevate your comfort with our 3-in-1 portable air conditioner (7100 BTU DOE / 12000 BTU ASHRAE). It cools, dehumidifies, and functions as a fan with adjustable speed and auto air swing,cooling to 61-88°F at the setting.The user-friendly LED control panel, remote control, and automatic restart after a power outage make it a hassle-free solution for uninterrupted comfort. Experience comprehensive climate control for a cool and comfortable living space.
- Energy-Efficient Cooling: Achieve energy-efficient cooling with a high CEER (Coefficient of Energy Efficiency Ratio) of 7 and eco-friendly R32 refrigerant to ensuring effective cooling while maintaining energy efficiency.In rooms of 550sq.ft.when the indoor temperature is 30 °/86 ° F and Cooling temperature wants to 25 °/77 ° F , It just takes about 15 minutes can be quickly achieve local cooling.So it providing a cost-effective and environmentally friendly cooling solution for your life.
- POWERFUL COOLING – Stay cool with our 8000 BTU portable AC units for rooms. They feature a fast rotary compressor and a fire-safe metal control box, cooling rooms up to 300 sq ft.
- VERSATILE 3-IN-1 OPERATION – Featuring AC Cooling, Dehumidifier, and Fan modes, the portable air conditioners adapt to your needs, with remote control and adjustable settings for added convenience.
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.
