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: Forbes Vetted’s 2024 “Best Portable Air Conditioner Overall”, this powerful yet quiet portable air conditioner provides powerful cooling over large areas up to 600 square feet
- 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 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.
- 【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 16 ft. Helping you keep the comfortable temp in the sweltering summer. Additionally, you can keep the temperature between 65°F to 86°F using various controls to tailor the cooling to your preferences
- 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
- Portable AC: Take this personal air conditioner (16.5” x 14.06” x 27.09) 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.
- 3-in-1: Our 7000 BTU DOE (12000 BTU ASHRAE 128) air conditioner also functions as a dehumidifier & fan. This portable air conditioner (56.8 lbs.) has a convenient remote control & top mounted control panel with LED display.
- 【OUTSTANDING COOLING ABILITY】- Shinco powerful ac unit owns a cooling capacity of 8,000 BTU(ASHRAE) / 4,550 BTU(SACC), making it perfect for cooling small to medium-sized spaces up to 200sq.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 ac unit 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 19.2L/day without bucket by self-evaporating operation. You can choose between the 2 fan speeds with 200m³/h air flow to get a comfortable feeling
- 8000 BTU Cooling Power: Our 8,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner delivers fast, effective cooling for spaces Up to 350 sq. ft. while providing fan and dehumidification functions in any home, creating a relaxing and comfortable environment
- 3-in-1 Flexibility: Beyond just a cooling solution, this versatile air conditioner portable features dehumidifying, and fan modes, this AC unit maximizes your comfort at home or office. It also features Hassle-Free, Quick Setup Cooling w/ moving wind vents for maximum air circulation
- Effortless Cooling: Achieve optimal comfort with customizable temperature settings and two fan speeds; Effortless Temperature Control helps to maintain your preset temperatures for consistent comfort
- Easy Maintenance: Keep your air conditioner running efficiently with the easy-to-clean washable filter, designed to capture dust from the air for long-lasting performance
- ❄️【𝟑 𝐈𝐧 𝟏-𝐀𝐢𝐫 𝐂𝐨𝐨𝐥𝐞𝐫 & 𝐀𝐢𝐫 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐞𝐫 & 𝐅𝐚𝐧】This evaporative cooler can be used as an Air Conditioner when adding water & ice packs, an Air Cooler when adding just water and a Fan when adding nothing. It features with 3 modes (Normal/Nature/Sleep) and 3 wind speeds (Low/Medium/High) to offer a wide range of use for any activity. It can absorb the surrounding hot air and cool it down quickly, creating a comfortable space environment for you.
- ❄️【𝟏𝟐𝟎° 𝐎𝐬𝐜𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧】The inner blades are designed with auto-swings horizontally by 120° to cool down the area evenly. Moreover, vertical airflow can be adjusted to 20° through its manual shutters for maximum cooling, ensures air is evenly distributed throughout the area, providing a comfortable breeze. It efficiently produces 25.6ft/s of strong airflow, and cools spaces of up to 300 sq.ft within minutes.
- 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：Portable evaporative cooler equipped with cutting-edge 2025 technology, this portable air cooler features a high-performance motor, innovative airflow design, and high-density cooling pads. It absorbs heat through water evaporation to reduce room temperatures by 5.4–16.2°F. For extra cooling, simply add ice to the tank and enjoy an even more refreshing experience—all while consuming just 65W of power, saving up to 65% on energy costs
- 【Windowless Portable Air Conditioners for Efficient Cooling】The Feculs 3-in-1 windowless portable air conditioner is designed to maximally cool spaces up to 320 sq.ft, making it ideal for bedrooms, offices, or living rooms. With a 20ft remote control range, you can effortlessly adjust settings from across the room, while the top touch buttons and bottom casters ensure easy operation and smooth mobility. Perfect for those who value convenience and efficiency, Feculs portable swamp air conditioner keeps your space cool without the hassle of window installation
- 【4 Modes & 3 Speeds for Personalized Comfort】Experience customized cooling with Feculs swamp cooler, featuring 4 modes: Cool, Sleep, Normal, and Nature. Adjust the settings to suit your preferences and enjoy comfort. With 3 fan speeds (low-10ft/s, medium-20ft/s, and high-26ft/s), you can tailor the airflow to create the perfect breeze. With multiple cooling combinations available, you can easily select the functions that match your environment and needs
- ❄️ 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.
