Best Portable Air Conditioners of 2025

Mark Greer Avatar
Mark Greer
Last Updated: Jan 13, 2025

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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 AC with Heat Pump Cover #TOP 1
Amazon Basics Portable AC with Heat Pump
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Coolblus Portable Air Conditioner Cover #TOP 2
Coolblus Portable Air Conditioner
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

#TOP 1

Amazon Basics Portable AC with Heat Pump

Amazon Basics
MPPDB-10HRN8-BCG8
White
10000 BTU
Amazon Basics Portable AC with Heat Pump Cover
Amazon Basics Portable AC (Air Conditioner) with Heat Pump, Dual Purpose (Cool and Warm), Cools 550 Square Feet, With Remote Control and Timer, 13,000 BTU ASHARE / 10000 BTU SACC, White

The Amazon Basics Portable AC is designed to keep you comfortable all year long, whether you're cooling or heating a room up to 550 square feet. Its easy installation process means you can set it up quickly with the included venting kit. You’ll appreciate the convenience of moving it around your home, thanks to its rolling caster wheels and ergonomic handles. The user-friendly controls, featuring an LED display and remote, allow you to adjust the cooling settings and timer with ease, ensuring you have a personalized experience no matter the season.

What We Like
Effective cooling and heating
Compact and easy setup
Good value for the price
Comfortable noise level
What We Don't Like
Occasional loud operation
Potential reliability issues
#TOP 2

Coolblus Portable Air Conditioner

A016B
White
12000BTU
Coolblus Portable Air Conditioner Cover
Coolblus A016B A016B-07KR Air Conditioner, 12000BTU, White

Coolblus AC Unit is a versatile 3-in-1 portable air conditioner that not only cools but also dehumidifies and functions as a fan. With adjustable speed settings and auto air swing feature, it ensures a comfortable temperature range of 61-88°F. This energy-efficient unit uses eco-friendly refrigerant for effective cooling in rooms up to 550 sq.ft. The Sleep Mode reduces noise levels for peaceful sleep, and the 24-hour timer allows customized cooling. Its auto-evaporative system and washable filter simplify maintenance, while the easy installation with casters and exhaust hose offers mobility and flexibility for personalized comfort.

What We Like
Easy setup process
Powerful cooling performance
Effective humidity removal
Multiple operation modes
Good price for quality
What We Don't Like
Confusing instructions
Some noise during operation
#TOP 3

BLACK+DECKER 8,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner

BPACT08WT
White - 8,000 BTU
1 Count (Pack of 1)
BLACK+DECKER 8,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner Cover
BLACK+DECKER 8,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner up to 350 Sq.Ft.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
Easily cools the room
Quieter than previous units
Improved hose connection design
Lower anticipated energy costs
Great value for the price
What We Don't Like
Dark remote control screen

Westinghouse 14,000 BTU Air Conditioner

WPAC14000h
White
Westinghouse 14,000 BTU Air Conditioner Cover
Westinghouse 14,000 BTU Air Conditioner with Heat Mode, WiFi Enabled, Remote Controlled, Dehumidifier, 3-Speed Fan, Programmable Timer, Window Kit

The Westinghouse Portable AC is designed to keep small rooms cool, effectively cooling areas up to 700 square feet. You can quickly enjoy instant cold air during hot summer days, allowing you to set a comfortable thermostat for your space. This unit is not just an air conditioner; it also functions as a fan, dehumidifier, and heater, providing year-round comfort. As a dehumidifier, it removes 90 pints of moisture daily from spaces up to 4000 square feet, helping improve air quality and making your home feel more comfortable in humid conditions.

What We Like
Easy setup and installation
Quiet operation during use
Effective cooling and heating
Smart remote control feature
Compact and stylish design
What We Don't Like
Some noise during operation
Moisture drain frequency
#TOP 5

CENSTECH 4-IN-1 Portable Air Conditioner

White
CENSTECH 4-IN-1 Portable Air Conditioner Cover
CENSTECH 4-IN-1 Portable Air Conditioners, Evaporative Air Cooler w/4 Modes & 3 Speeds, 15H Timer for Smart Auto-off, 2-Gal Tank for 20H Cooling,17FT Remote,No Hose Needed,120°Oscillating Swamp Cooler

The CENSTECH Portable Air Cooler is designed to enhance your comfort in dry climates. It serves as a cooler, humidifier, and fan, providing optimal humidity without excessive dryness. Offering four customizable modes—Cooling, Sleep, Normal, and Nature—this unit allows you to tailor your experience to your liking. You can also adjust the airflow with three fan speeds to find the perfect breeze for any setting. Plus, with a hassle-free setup that requires no hoses or windows, you can enjoy immediate relief without complicated installations.

What We Like
Compact and portable design
Quiet operation
Multiple speed settings
Good value for performance
Remote control functionality
What We Don't Like
Minor dripping noise
No thermostat feature
#TOP 6

LifeMaster 8,000 BTU Portable AC

LMPAC8.5
White
8,000 BTU
LifeMaster 8,000 BTU Portable AC Cover
LifeMaster 8,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioners, Room Air Conditioner with Digital Remote for Room up to 350 Sq.Ft, 3-in-1 Portable AC Unit with Installation Kit for Home/Office/Dorms

The LifeMaster Portable AC offers versatile cooling solutions for your space. With its 3-in-1 functionality, you can easily switch between air conditioning, dehumidifying, and fan modes to suit your needs. The unit operates quietly while effectively cooling rooms up to 350 sq. ft., making it perfect for bedrooms or offices. Setting up this portable air conditioner is a breeze, thanks to the included exhaust kit and simple installation instructions. Plus, the removable air filter ensures easy maintenance, keeping your air clean and fresh.

What We Like
Strong cooling power
Compact and space-saving
Easy setup
Remote control functionality
Quiet operation
What We Don't Like
Window adapter may not fit
Noise when cycling on/off

SereneLife SLPAC8 Portable Air Conditioner

SLPAC8
White
8,000 BTU
SereneLife SLPAC8 Portable Air Conditioner Cover
3-in-1 Portable Air Conditioner with Built-in Dehumidifier Function,Fan Mode, Remote Control, Complete Window Mount Exhaust Kit

The SereneLife SLPAC8 Portable Air Conditioner is a lightweight, handy, sleek body design intended to be used in the bedroom, living room or garage at home or office. It features rolling wheels for easy portability, 3 operating modes, a built-in dehumidifier, a digital touch button control panel, and a cooling power of 8000 BTU. Customers have mixed reviews, with some reporting issues with the unit and others praising its cooling and heating capabilities.

What We Like
Easy to install
Effective cooling capacity
Quiet operation
Sturdy packaging
Flexible movement
What We Don't Like
Remote control is flimsy
Requires window modifications
#TOP 8

BALKO 4-IN-1 Portable Air Conditioner

TF06
White
BALKO 4-IN-1 Portable Air Conditioner Cover
BALKO 4-IN-1 Personal Air Conditioner w/Remote, 2 Ice Packs, 1200ML Tank, 7H Timer for Smart Auto-Off,2 Cool Mist,3-Speed Small Portable Air Conditioner, 7-LED Light Evaporative Air Cooler for Room

The BALKO Portable AC is designed to keep you cool and comfortable. With its two upgraded ice packs, you can enjoy up to eight hours of refreshing cold air. The 1200ml water tank provides continuous cooling for ten hours, and it automatically switches to fan mode when water runs low, ensuring reliable performance. Featuring dual mist outlets, this air conditioner effectively lowers the temperature while adding humidity to combat dryness. Plus, the seven-hour timer allows you to set it for a restful night without worrying about energy costs.

What We Like
Portable and compact design
Powerful air cooling
Wireless with USB charging
Multiple speed settings
Oscillating feature
What We Don't Like
Limited battery backup
#TOP 9

CENSTECH 4-IN-1 Portable Air Conditioner

Off White
CENSTECH 4-IN-1 Portable Air Conditioner Cover
CENSTECH 4-IN-1 Portable Air Conditioners, Evaporative Air Cooler w/4 Modes & 3 Speeds, 15H Timer for Smart Auto-off, 2-Gal Tank for 20H Cooling,17FT Remote,No Hose Needed,120°Oscillating Swamp Cooler

The CENSTECH Portable Air Cooler is a versatile solution for those living in dry climates. It combines the functions of an air cooler, humidifier, and fan, ensuring you stay comfortable without drying out your skin. With four different modes and three fan speeds, you can easily customize your cooling experience to suit your preferences. Plus, its ventless design means no hoses or window installations are required, making setup a breeze. Additionally, the advanced cooling technology quickly lowers room temperatures, providing immediate relief from the heat.

What We Like
Portable and lightweight
Multiple cooling modes
Built-in humidifier
Energy-efficient design
Aesthetic blue design
What We Don't Like
Best for small to medium rooms
#TOP 10

COOLECH Portable Air Conditioner

‎JDAC69R
White
Large
COOLECH Portable Air Conditioner Cover
COOLECH Portable Air Conditioners w/Remote, 4 Modes & 3 Speeds, Waterless Alert System & 2.4-Gal Tank for 20H Cooling, 12H Timer for Auto Off, 3-IN-1 Evaporative Air Cooler for Room Bedroom Office

The COOLECH Portable AC offers a versatile cooling experience with its three-in-one functionality as a fan, humidifier, and air cooler. You can customize your comfort by choosing from four modes and three speed settings, ensuring a perfect atmosphere for any occasion. The waterless alert system provides peace of mind by notifying you when water levels are low, preventing potential damage. Additionally, this unit utilizes advanced cooling technology to quickly lower room temperatures, making it an excellent choice for hot, dry climates.

What We Like
Effective cooling
Quiet operation
Portable design
Easy to use
Long battery life
What We Don't Like
Smaller than expected
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 25 portable air conditioner products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 309,422 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 $346.43.

The portable air conditioners are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of portable air conditioners, including Coolblus, BLACK+DECKER, Westinghouse, CENSTECH, Lifemaster. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 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 Coolblus BLACK+DECKER Westinghouse CENSTECH Lifemaster SereneLife BALKO CENSTECH COOLECH
Voltage 115 Volts 120 Volts 115 Volts 115 Volts 120 Volts 110 Volts 1.2E+2 Volts 5 Volts 120 Volts 120 Volts
Color White White White - 8,000 BTU White White White White White Off White White
Noise Level - 52 dB 54 dB 51 dB 50 dB 50 dB 55 dB 40 dB 50 dB 40 dB
Item Weight 75.2 pounds - 52.9 pounds 61.9 pounds 10.14 pounds 26 pounds 46.3 pounds - 10.14 pounds -
Special Feature Led,Portable Auto Clean remote_control Remote Controlled, Adjustable Humidistat, WiFi Enabled, Dehumidifier - Remote Controlled, Dehumidifier, Fast Cooling portability Adjustable Speed, Silent Operation, Auto Shut-Off, Timer, Low Water Indicator - -
Form Factor Portable - Stand Alone Portable - Portable Compact Personal - -
Floor Area 550 Square Feet - 300.00 700 Cubic Feet 142 Square Feet 350 Square Feet 350 Square Feet - - -
Cooling Power 10000 British Thermal Units 12000 British Thermal Units 8000 British Thermal Units 14000 British Thermal Units - 8000 British Thermal Units 8000 British Thermal Units - - -
Capacity 10 Liters 0.26 Kilograms - 90 Pints - 350 Cubic Feet 1800 Cubic Feet - - -
Refrigerant R 410A R-32 R-32 - - R 410A R410a - - -
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 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 8.9
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