Best Portable Air Conditioners of 2026

Mark Greer Avatar
Mark Greer
Last Updated: Jan 13, 2026

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Portable air conditioners are a great solution for those who need to cool a specific room or area without the expense and hassle of installing a central air conditioning system. These units are easy to move from room to room and can be set up quickly without any professional installation. They come in a variety of sizes and cooling capacities to suit different room sizes and cooling needs. Portable air conditioners also have the added benefit of being energy-efficient and cost-effective, making them a popular choice for many homeowners and renters.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Amazon Basics Portable Air Conditioner, 10,000 BTU Cover #TOP 1
Amazon Basics Portable Air Conditioner, 10,000 BTU
ftb score rating icon 9.8
SereneLife Portable Air Conditioner with Built-in Dehumidifier & Fan Cover #TOP 2
SereneLife Portable Air Conditioner with Built-in Dehumidifier & Fan
ftb score rating icon 9.7
BLACK+DECKER 8,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner Cover #TOP 3
BLACK+DECKER 8,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Portable Air Conditioners

Amazon Basics Portable Air Conditioner, 10,000 BTU

Amazon Basics
MPPDA-06CRN8-BCF5
White
10000 BTU
Amazon Basics Portable Air Conditioner, 10,000 BTU Cover
Amazon Basics 3-In-1 Portable Air Conditioner, 10000 BTU (ASHRAE), Cools Up to 450 Sqf, Portable AC with Cool/Dry (Dehumidifier)/Fan-Only Functions, Auto Mode, Sleep Mode, Timer, White

The Amazon Basics Portable Air Conditioner, 10,000 BTU, is a convenient solution for cooling and dehumidifying rooms up to 450 square feet. With a remote control, you can easily adjust the settings from a distance. The unit comes with a venting kit for hot air exhaust through a window, making installation hassle-free. Its rolling caster wheels and side handles allow for easy mobility. The LED display and remote control offer multiple speeds, cooling settings, and a timer for personalized comfort.

What We Like
Easy installation
Effective cooling performance
Remote control convenience
Sleep timer function
Handles large rooms
What We Don't Like
Noticeable noise level
Water drainage requires attention

SereneLife Portable Air Conditioner with Built-in Dehumidifier & Fan

SLACHT108
White
10,000 BTU + HEAT
SereneLife Portable Air Conditioner with Built-in Dehumidifier & Fan Cover
SereneLife Portable Air Conditioner With Heat & Built-in Dehumidifier 10,000 BTU, Portable Heater & AC For Rooms up to 450 Sq Ft - Remote Control & Window Mount Exhaust Kit Included

The SereneLife Portable Air Conditioner and Heater is a compact, lightweight and portable AC unit that can be used in your bedroom, living room or garage, making it ideal for home or office use. With four modes, including cooling, heating, dehumidifier and fan, it is perfect for all year round use. The built-in dehumidifier helps to reduce humidity levels, saving you both space and money. The touch button control panel and remote control provide easy and convenient operation. With 10,000 BTU cooling power and 9,000 BTU heating power, it can cover up to 350+ sq. ft. and has an operating noise level of only 52-56 dBa.

What We Like
Effective cooling and heating
Easy installation and setup
Strong air circulation
Useful remote and timer
Portable and versatile design
What We Don't Like
Moderate noise level
Warranty process requires effort
#TOP 3

BLACK+DECKER 8,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner

BPACT08WT
White - 8, 000 BTU
8,000 BTU
BLACK+DECKER 8,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner Cover
BLACK+DECKER 8,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner up to 350 Sq. with Remote Control, White

The BLACK+DECKER 8,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner is a powerful, quiet, and easy-to-install unit that is perfect for cooling small rooms up to 150 sq. ft. It features 3 energy efficient functions for cooling, fan, and dehumidifying modes, and comes with a simple remote control and top-mounted LED display with 24-hour timer. The unit also has a bucket-less, self-evaporating operation, and is equipped with casters for easy mobility.

What We Like
Excellent cooling performance
Quiet operation
Low maintenance
Easy filter cleaning
Energy efficient
What We Don't Like
Minor plastic part fragility
Occasional bright indicator lights

SereneLife 10,000 BTU Portable AC with WiFi

SLPAC103W.5
Gray
SereneLife 10,000 BTU Portable AC with WiFi Cover
SereneLife 10,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner with WiFi Control, 3-in-1 Cooling, Dehumidifier & Fan, Compact Indoor AC Unit for 450 Sq. Ft. Coverage, Includes Window Exhaust Kit & Remote

The SereneLife Portable AC offers versatile comfort with its three-in-one design, allowing you to cool, dehumidify, or simply use the fan mode depending on your needs. This flexibility helps you maintain a comfortable indoor environment all year long. With a powerful 10,000 BTU cooling capacity, it efficiently cools rooms up to 450 square feet, perfect for bedrooms or small apartments. The unit operates quietly at around 55 decibels, so you won’t be disturbed while it’s running. Plus, it comes with an easy-to-install window exhaust kit and a self-evaporating system, making setup simple and reducing the hassle of manual drainage.

What We Like
3-in-1 operation
Efficient 10,000 BTU cooling
Quiet performance
Easy window exhaust setup
#TOP 5

BLACK+DECKER 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner

BPACT14WT
White - 14,000 BTU
1 Count (Pack of 1)
BLACK+DECKER 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner Cover
BLACK+DECKER Smart Portable Air Conditioner, 14,000 BTU (10,200 BTU SACC) for Rooms up to 700 Sq. Ft., Smart Portable AC with Follow Me Remote and Window Kit, BPACT14WT, White

The BLACK+DECKER 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner is a 3-in-1 unit that includes a dehumidifier and fan. It has a convenient remote control and top mounted control panel with LED display, and features a slide-out washable filter, auto water evaporation, and 24-hour timer. It also includes an easy-to-install window kit and is easy to move from room to room with its casters and side handles.

What We Like
Fast and effective cooling
Easy installation
Quieter operation
Improved hose connection
Good value for price
What We Don't Like
Remote screen hard to read
A bit heavy

Amazon Basics Window-Mounted Air Conditioner

Amazon Basics
MWHUK-05CMN8-BCK0
White
5000 BTU
Amazon Basics Window-Mounted Air Conditioner Cover
Amazon Basics 5000-BTU Small Window Air Conditioner, Up to 150 Sqf, Window AC Units with Cool and Fan Functions, Washable Filter, Adjustable Window Kit, Intuitive Mechanical Controls, White

The Amazon Basics Window-Mounted Air Conditioner is an energy efficient air conditioning unit that cools rooms up to 150 square feet with standard 9 foot ceilings. It features 7 temperature settings, dual cooling and fan settings, adjustable air direction, and an inbuilt filter that can be easily removed, washed, and reused. The window-mounting kit includes adjustable side panels that expand to fit standard windows.

What We Like
Easy installation
Fast cooling performance
Affordable price
Compact design
Intuitive mechanical controls
What We Don't Like
Noticeable noise
Basic features only
#TOP 7

BLACK+DECKER BPACT05SM 8,500 BTU Portable AC

BPACT05SM
White - 8,500 BTU
1 Count (Pack of 1)
BLACK+DECKER BPACT05SM 8,500 BTU Portable AC Cover
BLACK+DECKER Portable Air Conditioner, 8,500 BTU for Rooms Up To 350 Sq. Ft., Portable AC with Full Function Remote Control & Window Kit, BPACT05SM, White

The BLACK+DECKER Portable AC is a versatile cooling solution that combines air conditioning, dehumidifying, and fan functions in one unit, perfect for keeping your space comfortable. It effectively cools rooms up to 350 square feet, making it ideal for small areas like bedrooms, offices, or apartments. The easy-to-use control panel on top lets you adjust settings quickly, while the included remote control gives you the convenience of managing the unit from across the room. This means you can stay cool and comfortable without any hassle.

What We Like
Quick room cooling
Easy installation
Compact, portable design
Quiet operation
Efficient dehumidifier
What We Don't Like
Window kit size limitation
Occasional drainage required
#TOP 8

GarveeTech 10000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner

NPLD3-06C/X1E
White
10000BTU+White
GarveeTech 10000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner Cover
Portable Air Conditioners, 10000 BTU Air Conditioner for Room Up to 450 Sq.Ft, 24H Timer, Remote Control, Dehumidifier, 3 in-1 AC Unit with Window Kit for Bedroom, Indoor Rooms, Home Office

The GarveeTech Portable AC offers powerful cooling with its 10,000 BTU capacity, perfect for rooms up to 450 square feet like bedrooms or home offices. You can easily keep your space comfortable by setting temperatures between 61°F and 88°F. It operates quietly, especially in sleep mode, ensuring you rest peacefully without noise disruptions. The 24-hour timer lets you schedule cooling to match your daily routine, saving energy and adding convenience. Installation is simple thanks to the upgraded window sealing kit that fits most sliding and vertical windows without complicated cutting. Plus, controlling the unit is easy with a digital panel or remote, allowing quick adjustments to temperature, fan speed, and mode.

What We Like
Effective cooling performance
Easy installation and setup
Automatic temperature shutoff
Convenient drainage options
What We Don't Like
Some operational noise
Requires cracked window for best use
#TOP 9

BLACK+DECKER BPACT12WT Large Spaces Air Conditioner Portable

BPACT12WT
White - 12,000 BTU
1 Count (Pack of 1)
BLACK+DECKER BPACT12WT Large Spaces Air Conditioner Portable Cover
BLACK+DECKER Smart Portable Air Conditioner, 12,000 BTU for Rooms up to 550 Sq. Ft., Smart Portable AC with Follow Me Remote and Window Kit, BPACT12WT, White

The BLACK+DECKER BPACT12WT Large Spaces Air Conditioner Portable is a powerful and quiet 12,000 BTU air conditioner that is perfect for cooling small rooms up to 300 sq. ft. It features 3 energy efficient functions for cooling, fan, and dehumidifying modes, and comes with a remote control for easy operation. It also has a self-evaporating operation that makes your living space cool, clean and dry. Customers have praised its easy setup and adjustable fan speed, though some have noted that it can be quite loud.

What We Like
Strong cooling performance
Easy setup and installation
Portable and space-saving
Adjustable airflow direction
Remote control convenience
What We Don't Like
Moderate noise at times
Minor remote control issues
#TOP 10

PNTCK Evaporative Air Cooler with Remote

PNTCK
FKT007R
PNTCK Evaporative Air Cooler with Remote Cover
Evaporative Air Cooler with Remote & Timer, 2200+ CFM Portable Fan That Blows Cold Air for Large Room, Home Office, Bedroom - 2.1Gal High-Capacity Tank, 3 Modes, Whisper Quiet 30dB & Sleep Mode

The PNTCK Portable Air Cooler offers powerful and efficient cooling for your home or office. It can rotate both vertically and horizontally, spreading cool air evenly across large spaces, making it perfect for family gatherings or quiet nights. Thanks to its advanced triple-sided cooling pads, you’ll feel a refreshing chill quickly, so you can stay comfortable without waiting. The large 2.1-gallon tank with ice packs means fewer refills and longer-lasting cool air, ideal for relaxing evenings or watching TV. Plus, it operates quietly at just 30dB with a special sleep mode and 12-hour timer, helping you enjoy a peaceful and undisturbed night's rest.

What We Like
Very quiet operation
Effective humidity boost
Good value for price
Compact size
What We Don't Like
Limited cooling ability
Low airflow on max
Buying Guide Image

Finding the Best Portable Air Conditioners for Your Home

Introduction

When the weather outside is sweltering, a portable air conditioner can be a lifesaver. These convenient units allow you to cool down a single room or small space without the need for expensive installations or cumbersome window units. However, choosing the right portable air conditioner can be a daunting task, as there are many factors to consider. In this article, we will explore some key considerations to help you make an informed decision when selecting a portable air conditioner.

Considerations

Size and BTU

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a portable air conditioner is the size of the unit and its British Thermal Unit (BTU) rating. The BTU rating determines how much cooling power a portable air conditioner has, and it is directly related to the size of the space that the unit can effectively cool. As a general rule of thumb, a portable air conditioner with a higher BTU rating can cool larger rooms more effectively than a unit with a lower BTU rating.

Energy Efficiency

Another important factor to consider when choosing a portable air conditioner is energy efficiency. A more energy-efficient unit will use less power to cool a space, which can save you money on your electricity bills. Look for a portable air conditioner with an Energy Star certification, which indicates that the unit meets strict energy efficiency standards set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Features

In addition to size and energy efficiency, there are many other features to consider when choosing a portable air conditioner. Some units come with multiple fan speeds, allowing you to adjust the airflow to your preference. Others have a built-in dehumidifier, which can help to remove excess moisture from the air and improve the overall comfort of a space. Some units also come with remote controls, making it easy to adjust the settings from anywhere in the room.

Price

Finally, it's important to consider the price of a portable air conditioner when making your decision. While it's tempting to choose the cheapest option, keep in mind that the cheapest unit may not always be the best value. Consider the size and BTU rating of the unit, as well as its energy efficiency and features, to determine whether it is worth the price.

Conclusion

Choosing the right portable air conditioner can be a challenging task, but by considering the size and BTU rating of the unit, its energy efficiency, features, and price, you can make an informed decision that will help you stay cool and comfortable during hot weather.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are portable AC worth buying?

Portable air conditioners are a worthwhile investment for cooling single rooms or smaller spaces. They are cost-effective, easy to install, and do not require permanent installation. However, it's important to note that portable air conditioners are not suitable for cooling an entire home and should not be seen as a replacement for a central air conditioning system or HVAC unit.

2. Do all portable air conditioners have to be vented out a window?

While it is common for portable air conditioners to be vented out of a window using window venting kits that are usually included, it is not always necessary. Portable AC units can also be vented through doors, walls, and ceilings, providing flexibility in installation.

3. What are the disadvantages of portable air conditioner?

Some disadvantages of portable air conditioners include higher noise levels, lower energy efficiency compared to other cooling options, limited effectiveness in large rooms, and the need to avoid moving them once they are installed and the cooling pipe is brought out of the window.

4. Is it OK to leave portable AC on all the time?

It is generally safe and recommended to leave a portable AC unit on continuously. Continuous use is better for the health of the unit and does not significantly increase energy consumption. Most portable AC units have built-in mechanisms to automatically turn off once the desired temperature is reached in the room.

5. Will a portable AC run up electric bill?

Using a portable AC unit can increase your electric bill, but the impact depends on factors such as the cost per kilowatt-hour and the duration of usage. Running a portable AC unit for extended periods can add to the monthly bill, especially compared to more energy-efficient cooling options.

6. Do all portable air conditioners need to be drained?

Most portable air conditioners should be drained approximately every 8 hours of operation. However, the frequency may vary depending on the specific model. Some portable AC units are designed to operate efficiently without the need for draining for up to a month.

7. Is it OK to sleep with a portable air conditioner on?

Yes, it is safe to sleep with a portable air conditioner on. Maintaining a cool bedroom temperature can improve sleep quality, as excessive heat can interfere with sleep. The optimal ambient temperature for sleep, according to the Sleep Foundation, is around 65°F (18.3°C).

Portable air conditioners are not as popular as window AC units due to certain limitations. They may not be as effective at cooling a room, generate more noise, and can be heavy and difficult to move between rooms, even if they have wheels. Additionally, all the machinery of portable AC units is located indoors, which can be a drawback for some users.

Editor's Notes

During our portable air conditioner research, we found 26 portable air conditioner products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 267,459 customer reviews through our big data system to write the portable air conditioners list. We found that most customers choose portable air conditioners with an average price of $448.99.

The portable air conditioners are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of portable air conditioners, including SereneLife, BLACK+DECKER, GarveeTech, PNTCK. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Mark Greer Avatar

Mark Greer has been an excellent residential carpenter for eight years in Los Angeles and has complete knowledge of woodworking, power tools, and home DIY. He never misses a chance of the lookout for new features and innovations in popular and novel home appliances as an insightful writer.

Portable Air Conditioners Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Amazon Basics SereneLife BLACK+DECKER SereneLife BLACK+DECKER Amazon Basics BLACK+DECKER GarveeTech BLACK+DECKER PNTCK
Special Feature 3-In-1 (Cool/Dry/Ventilation), Digital Display, Remote Control, Auto Mode, Sleep Mode, Auto-Swing Louvers Portable, Remote Controlled 3-in-1: Air Conditioner, Dehumidifier, Fan, Remote Controlled Dehumidifier 3-in-1: Air Conditioner, Dehumidifier, Fan, Remote Controlled 3-in-1 (Cooling, Dehumidifying, Fan), Temperature Control, Removable & Washable Filter, Adjustable Window Fit 3-in-1: Air Conditioner, Dehumidifier, Fan Dehumidifier, Fast Cooling, Sleep Mode Remote Controlled Humidifier, Ice Pack Compatible, Multiple Speeds, Remote Controlled, Timer
Voltage 115 Volts 120 Volts 115 Volts 115 Volts 115 Volts 115 Volts 115 Volts 115 Volts 115 Volts -
Item Weight 59.5 pounds 56.5 pounds 52.9 pounds 46.3 pounds 62.7 pounds - 42.3 pounds 53.5 pounds - 11 Pounds
Form Factor Portable, Floor Standing, Household Use Portable Portable Portable Portable Stand Alone Portable - - Portable
Cooling Power 10000 British Thermal Units 12000 British Thermal Units 8000 British Thermal Units 10000 British Thermal Units 14000 British Thermal Units 5000 British Thermal Units 8500 British Thermal Units - 12000 British Thermal Units -
Color White White White - 8, 000 BTU Gray White - 14,000 BTU White White - 8,500 BTU - White - 12,000 BTU -
Capacity 10000 British Thermal Units 2800 Cubic Feet 19.2 Liters 1.2 Liters 44.2 Liters - 19.2 Liters - 44.2 Liters -
Noise Level - 56 Decibels 54 Decibels 55 Decibels 52 Decibels 56 Decibels 52 Decibels - 54 Decibels -
Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) 17 29.7 6.2 - 6.2 14 - - 7.2 -
Floor Area 450 Square Feet 350 Square Feet 400.0 - 700 Square Feet - 350 Square Feet - - -
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.7
ftb score rating icon 8.6
ftb score rating icon 8.5
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