As the weather starts reaching into the 90s across the country, it's time to think about how you'll keep your living space cool. I've tested 16 units and interviewed two experts to find the best portable air conditioners based on energy efficiency, user-friendliness, and cooling.
The Midea Duo Smart Inverter Portable Air Conditioner is our top pick. It's one of the quietest and most powerful units I tested, but it's quite expensive. If you don't have $600 to spend, the LG Portable Air Conditioner is an energy-efficient budget option that's about half the cost of the Midea. However, it's a little underpowered and lacks app connectivity.
When shopping for the best air conditioner for your space, you'll want to consider a model's British Thermal Unit, or BTU, which indicates cooling and heating capacity, and how it relates to your room's size. More BTUs equal better cooling power, but higher energy costs. Our what to look for section has guidance for dialing in the correct BTU for your room size.
We also recommend you consider a window model first since they're less expensive and more efficient at cooling. Yet, not all windows and living situations accommodate them. In those instances, a portable air conditioner offers more flexibility and storage advantages. For more about the difference between the two types of units, check out my article on portable air conditioners versus window air conditioners.
Learn more about how Business Insider Reviews tests and researches home products.
The best portable air conditioners
Best overall: Midea Duo Smart Inverter Portable Air Conditioner - See at Amazon
Best budget: LG Portable Air Conditioner (LP0621WSR) - See at Amazon
Best for large rooms: Whynter ARC-14S Dual Hose Portable Air Conditioner - See at Amazon
Quietest: Friedrich ZoneAire Inverter Portable Air Conditioner (ZHV16DA) - See at P.C. Richard & Son
Best small: EcoFlow Wave 3 Portable Air Conditioner - See at EcoFlow
Best with heat: Black+Decker Portable Air Conditioner (BPACT14HWT) - See at Amazon
Best overall
The Midea Duo Smart Inverter Portable Air Conditioner has a feature-rich app that pairs with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant for voice control, and it does an outstanding job of cooling while operating quietly.
- Outstanding cooling abilities
- Quiet operation
- Easy installation
- App has several customization options and pairs with Alexa and Google Assistant
- Uses a lot of power
- Oddly shaped hose
- Hose doesn't connect securely to window slider
In my tests, the Midea Duo Smart Inverter Portable Air Conditioner (model MAP14S1TBL) was among the best at cooling and operating quietly.
However, it used the most electricity. The Midea used 0.2 kWh more than the overall hourly average in our tests. Running your portable AC eight hours a day all summer would equate to an average extra energy cost of about $24 based on average electricity rates.
The Midea Duo's unique hose-in-hose design replaces the hot air removed from your room with cool air for more efficient cooling. It's easy to install, though the hose doesn't stay clipped into the window slider. I had to use duct tape to keep it in place.
It also has several smart functions not found in most other portable ACs. You can turn off the LED to avoid light pollution and set a "sleep curve" that adjusts the temperature throughout the night to balance comfort and power use. In the app, you can set the AC to turn on or off depending on whether you're home and control the airflow direction.
The Midea Duo is also our best smart portable air conditioner because it works with the feature-packed SmartHome app (iOS and Android), pairing with Alexa or Google Assistant for voice control. I can turn the AC on/off and set a schedule from anywhere using my phone. I scheduled the Midea to turn off during surge electrical pricing and to come back on afterward to ensure the room is comfortable by bedtime.
The Midea Duo is also available with a heating mode, though we haven't tested this model.
Read our full Midea Duo Smart Inverter Portable Air Conditioner review.
Best budget
The LG LP0621WSR Portable Air Conditioner is the most affordable unit we tested and does a decent job of cooling while making relatively little noise.
- Good for cooling smaller rooms
- Low energy consumption (for a portable AC)
- Easy to set up and install
- Fits a broad range of windows/openings
- Ran into trouble moving it from room to room
- Minimal warranty
Considering its price and Btu rating, the LG LP0621WSR Portable Air Conditioner did a great job cooling. Our best budget portable air conditioner is designed for rooms up to 250 square feet but cooled the 550-square-foot testing room by more than 2 degrees in the two-hour testing period. That's pretty good.
This performance was particularly impressive, considering it used the least power of any model in our guide.
The LG LP0621WSR was easy to set up and install. Within 10 minutes of opening the box, I had it cooling the room. You'll need a Phillips-head screwdriver to secure the window panels. The panels fit a wide range of window sizes, a nice feature since I have extra-wide windows.
The air conditioner is relatively light at 60 pounds and has handles, helpful for moving it from floor to floor. However, I ran into issues moving it from one room to another on the same level. The unit is low to the ground and top-heavy. It fell over as I rushed to roll it to the next room.
Whether on low (55 decibels) or high speed (57 decibels), the LG LP0621WSR's noise output was average, about as loud as a quiet office or a normal conversation.
LG has a newer, 7,000-Btu version, model LP0721WSR, if you need more cooling power. We haven't tested it yet, but it may be worth the $29 extra it costs to keep a midsize room cool.
Best for large rooms
The Whynter ARC-14S Dual Hose Portable Air Conditioner may be big and not as portable as other units, but it did the best job of cooling our 550-square-foot test room.
- Top performer in our cooling tests
- Comes with a storage cover
- Three-year warranty on compressor
- Cumbersome to move
- Longer setup
- Loud operation
- Window slider only fits windows up to 46 inches long
- Doesn't come with foam seals
The first word that comes to mind when looking at the Whynter ARC-14S Dual Hose Portable Air Conditioner is "monolithic." With its large, imposing, flat front, our best portable air conditioner for large rooms looks like something from 2001: A Space Odyssey.
Besides its appearance, the Whynter ARC-14S's most notable feature is its cooling abilities due to its dual-hose construction. With single-hose portable ACs, hot air is removed through the hose. This lowers the pressure in the room, causing hot air from outside the room to rush in to equalize the pressure. With two hoses, the Whynter replaces the removed air with cool air for more efficient cooling.
It was among the best in my cooling test, decreasing the room temperature by 3.6 degrees over two hours. However, it was also one of the loudest models, at 58 decibels.
Weighing 86 pounds, the unit is heavy and lacks handles, making moving from room to room hard. The initial installation took me half an hour, which is longer than most models. It was slower because the fixtures needed to be screwed into the window slider by hand. The slider wasn't long enough for my 47-inch window opening, so I used Styrofoam packaging to fill the gap. Additionally, it doesn't come with foam seals, which are helpful for efficient cooling.
Additionally, Whynter offers a version with heating capabilities, the ARC-14SH, which we also recommend.
Quietest
The dual-hose Friedrich ZoneAire Inverter Portable Air Conditioner did the best job of cooling and was among the quietest portable air conditioners we tested. It's pricey but worth it if you want powerful cooling.
- Performed the best in our cooling tests
- Operates quietly
- WiFi-enabled
- Doesn't come with foam seals
We feature several quiet portable air conditioners in this guide, but the Friedrich ZoneAire Inverter Portable Air Conditioner (ZHV16DA) does the best job of balancing quiet operation, cooling performance, and energy efficiency. For these reasons, it's also the best portable air conditioner for bedrooms.
On high, it's only 53 decibels, which is quieter than normal conversation. On low, it isn't much quieter (51 decibels), but is silent enough to earn a spot in my bedroom this summer. I especially like that the Friedrich ZoneAire's inverter compressor doesn't make jarring noises because it isn't constantly turning on and off, like other portable units might.
The Friedrich is one of the best dual-hose portable air conditioners I've tested. Dual-hose units tend to do better than single-hose ACs in larger rooms because the dedicated air intake hose equalizes the room's pressure, keeping hot air from leaking in to fill the vacuum. The Friedrich Zoneaire demonstrated the dual-hose benefits perfectly. In two hours, it decreased the temperature of the testing room by four degrees, the best in my tests. Equally impressive is it only used an average amount of electricity.
The unit only took about 15 minutes to set up and didn't require tools. Five minutes of the setup time was connecting to the user-friendly FriedrichGo app (available for iOS and Android). Reinstalling the AC in another room was also quick, taking a little over a minute.
The Friedrich isn't our top pick because it's quite expensive at about $700, or about $130 more than our top pick. Still, if quiet operation and powerful cooling are your top priorities, the Friedrich ZoneAire Inverter Portable Air Conditioner is your best bet.
Best small
The EcoFlow Wave 3 Portable Air Conditioner is an impressive heating and cooling device for camping, RVs, and power outages. Its excellent performance and variety of charging methods make it worth the high price point.
- Battery powered
- Lighter than most air conditioners
- Quiet operation
- Minimal power use
- Fast-charging battery
- Limited battery runtime
- Underwhelming heating
The EcoFlow Wave 3 was just released earlier this year as an update to our former battery-powered pick, the Wave 2. The Wave 3 is more powerful and adds dehumidification. Unlike the other units in our guide, the Wave 3 doesn't require an electrical outlet, making it the best portable air conditioner for cars, camping, and other situations where you don't have access to electricity.
At 38.4 pounds, the Wave 3 is a little heavier than the Wave 2 but still much lighter than any other unit in our guide. It took longer than most to set up because you need to rig your own window slider for the two hoses. I used plenty of duct tape to attach the hoses to another unit's window slider. You don't need a window for the Wave 3, but you do need to have an opening to the outside world for the air intake and exhaust hoses.
Connecting to the EcoFlow app (available for iOS and Android) was seamless, and I found it user-friendlier than the on-unit controls, which could get confusing.
I tested the EcoFlow Wave 3 in my normal 550 square-foot testing room with it connected to a wall outlet initially, but it struggled. It's recommended for spaces up to 180 square feet, which is about a third of the size of the testing area. It barely decreased the room's temperature. I retested it in a 200-square-foot space relying solely on the battery. It lowered the room's temperature by almost four degrees. Much better.
The Wave 3's battery barely lasted through the two-hour testing period while running on maximum power. On lower settings, it can last up to eight hours. Recharging the battery takes less than 90 minutes, and it can be recharged using a wall outlet, solar panels (sold separately), or a car charging cable. The battery attaches to the Wave 3 and adds about 21 pounds to its weight.
At $1,449 with the battery, the Wave 3 is expensive, but during summer heat waves, it can make your RV, tent, or car more bearable. It's also worth having around for heating and cooling if the power goes out.
Best with heat
Not only was the Black+Decker Portable Air Conditioner (BPACT14HWT) the runner-up in our cooling tests, but you can also use it to heat your room in the winter.
- Excellent cooling
- Fast setup
- Five-year compressor warranty
- Heating mode
- Loud operation
- Doesn't come with window security brackets
In addition to being one of the top performers in our cooling tests, the Black+Decker BPACT14HWT Portable Air Conditioner is the best portable air conditioner with heat, which makes it great for year-round use.
I purchased it three years ago, and it's still going strong. I particularly like that I don't have to store it during the winter. Instead, I use it to heat the living room, which tends to run colder than the rest of the house. It's also available without heat.
Installation took about five minutes, and I didn't need any special tools. I like that the window slider extends to 60 inches, which is more than enough for my needs. However, I wish it came with window security brackets to make it harder for someone to push the window open and gain access to my house. Fortunately, this hasn't been an issue.
It's one of the louder units we tested, and when I neglected to clean the filter regularly, the Black+Decker produced jarring sounds as it changed fan speeds.
In our tests, it was in the middle of the pack in electricity use. Over two hours, it consumed 1.83 kWh.
We should also note that our air quality monitor registered a 50% increase in VOCs during testing. However, the levels weren't high enough to cause concern.
What to look for in a portable air conditioner
Btu and room size: One British thermal unit (Btu) equals the heat needed to raise one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit. In cooling, Btu measures how much heat is removed from a room. The more Btu per hour an air conditioner is rated for, the better job it does cooling.
That said, you shouldn't just choose an AC based on Btu. You'll also want to consider room size. Higher Btu units are better at cooling larger spaces, but they're louder and will be too overpowering in smaller rooms (meaning unnecessarily high cooling costs). Use the table below (from the Energy Star website) to determine what Btu your room requires:
Recommended Btu by room size
| Room size | Cooling power needed |
| 100 to 150 square feet | 5,000 Btu |
| 150 to 250 sq. ft. | 6,000 Btu |
| 250 to 300 sq. ft. | 7,000 Btu |
| 300 to 350 sq. ft. | 8,000 Btu |
| 350 to 400 sq. ft. | 9.000 Btu |
| 400 to 450 sq. ft. | 10,000 Btu |
| 450 to 550 sq. ft. | 12,000 Btu |
| 550 to 700 sq. ft. | 14,000 Btu |
| 700 to 1,000 sq. ft. | 18,000 Btu |
| 1,000 to 1,200 sq. ft. | 21,000 Btu |
| 1,200 to 1,400 sq. ft. | 23,000 Btu |
| 1,400 to 1,500 sq. ft. | 24,000 Btu |
| 1,500 to 2,000 sq. ft. | 30,000 Btu |
| 2,000 to 2,500 sq. ft. | 34,000 Btu |
Your Btu needs will be greater if the room has a ceiling over 8 feet high, is very sunny, is regularly occupied by more than two people, or is a kitchen.
Energy efficiency: Even the best portable air conditioners are not energy-efficient, and none are Energy Star certified. Still, if you're hoping to save some money on cooling costs or limit your carbon footprint, you'll want to consider energy efficiency. There are two factors to look at here: the compressor and kWh usage.
A portable air conditioner's compressor pushes hot air outside so cold air can circulate in your room. Dual-inverter compressors, like the one in my top pick, are the most energy-efficient. These compressors have variable-speed motors that use much less energy than traditional compressors.
To get an overall feel for your AC's energy usage, you'll want to look at kWh usage, short for kilowatt-hour. Most electricity utilities use kWh to measure your power use, and I use it to measure the energy consumption of the air conditioners I test. The lower the kWh usage, the better.
Window size: Portable ACs usually come with a window slider, a long, adjustable piece of plastic that goes in your window's opening. The hose from your portable AC connects to the slider to send the hot air emitted from the unit outside. You'll want to measure your window before purchasing your AC to ensure the slider will fit.
Noise: No one expects an air conditioner to be silent, but you'll want a unit with minimal noise output, especially if you use it while sleeping. We measure noise output with a decibel meter, but generally, you can expect units with more Btu to be louder.
WiFi-enabled: Depending on your needs, you may consider a WiFi-enabled unit, which allows you to control the air conditioner from your phone. This makes setting a schedule or adjusting the settings easy without getting out of bed. Expect to pay a bit more for the convenience of app connectivity.
How we test portable air conditioners
I have tested and reviewed air quality, cooling, and heating devices for six years, including 14 portable air conditioners. I also consulted with Enesta Jones, a US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) spokesperson, and Joanna Mauer, the technical advocacy manager for the Appliance Standards Awareness Project.
Based on my research and interviews, the main features to look for when shopping for portable air conditioners are how well they fit your window, energy consumption, and cooling abilities. Our testing methodology encompasses the following evaluation criteria.
Setup: I timed how long it took to remove the packaging and install each unit, noting if tools were needed.
Cooling: I set my home's heating system to 75 degrees. Once at the set point, I cranked the portable air conditioner to its highest fan speed and lowest temperature. Using a digital thermometer placed on the other side of the 550-square-foot testing room, I compared the before temp to the temperature two hours later to see how well the unit cooled.
Noise: A loud air conditioner can make watching TV, working, or sleeping difficult. I measured each unit's noise output by holding a sound meter 6 feet from the AC as it ran on its highest setting. It lost points if the compressor made jarring sounds as it turned on and off.
Power use: I measured how much energy each unit used while running on high for two hours using a smart plug. The least energy-efficient window air conditioner I tested still uses less power than the most efficient portable unit.
Air quality: Before and after running the air conditioner for two hours, I compared particulate matter and VOC measurements using an air-quality monitor. I didn't weigh this category heavily, but I noted when there were significant changes in the air quality.
Portability: I timed how long it took to uninstall the AC, move it to the next room, and reinstall it. Between the rooms, there is a 3/4-inch threshold, making handles advantageous. I also considered the air conditioner's weight.
Extras: All units in this guide have at least a one-year warranty and a fan. ACs needed to have more than this to get extra points. For instance, a heating mode, remote control, dehumidifying, WiFi connectivity, foam seals for efficient cooling, and a longer warranty contribute to a more favorable assessment of a portable air conditioner.
Portable air conditioner FAQs
Why do portable ACs have two Btu numbers?
According to Mauer, the Department of Energy's Btu rating, known as SACC, is more accurate than ASHRAE because it considers hot air infiltration and heat losses through the ducts.
Mauer said ASHRAE, the manufacturer's Btu, doesn't account for the significant heat released back into the room by the exhaust hose. There is also no consistent testing standard.
The DOE established the SACC Btu rating using standardized testing to account for the heat that ends up back in the room. My guide references the SACC ratings.
What can you do if your AC doesn't have enough Btu to cool a room adequately?
Mauer recommended keeping the filter clean. She also suggested closing the curtains and blinds during the day to reduce the room's heat gain and running a fan to circulate the cool air.
Is a portable air conditioner or window air conditioner better?
As outlined in my portable air conditioners vs window air conditioners article, window ACs are the better option for most people.
In my tests, the most efficient portable AC still used 60% more power than my top window pick. The window unit also cost less and did much better cooling.
I strongly recommend buying a window AC if you have a window that supports it. Portable units are only preferable when you don't have a single- or double-hung window.
Can I use a portable air conditioner in a room without windows?
Yes, but the hot air needs a way to leave the space. Otherwise, the unit won't provide any cooling benefits. Your portable AC just needs an opening big enough for the ventilating hose to send the exhaust outdoors.
Can portable ACs help with wildfire smoke and air filtration?
To some degree, yes. Most portable air conditioners have some degree of air filtration, and running your AC during smoke emergencies can help keep smoke out. However, the EPA recommends opting for a dual-hose unit, like our recommendations from Midea, Whynter, and Friedrich. You'll also want to ensure that the seal between the hose casing and the window is as tight as possible. We recommend checking out our guide to the best air purifiers for the best air-filtering options.
How do I clean and maintain my portable air conditioner?
To keep your portable air conditioner working optimally, you need to clean the filter at least once a month, more if you use it frequently. Below are other cleaning tips to ensure you get the most out of your unit.
Weekly:
- Remove condensation: Regularly remove the condensation that builds up from the cooling process. Many portable units make this easy with a built-in dehumidifier or drain hose. When you put the AC away for the season, remove condensation to avoid mold buildup.
- Keep the hose short: You can improve your portable air conditioner's efficiency and reduce dust and moisture buildup by keeping the hose as short and straight as possible.
- Wipe the exterior down: Run a damp cloth along the exterior of your unit to remove dust.
Monthly:
- Clean the filter: A filter helps reduce allergens in your air and allows for optimal airflow. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for how often to clean the filter. The best vacuums outfitted with a crevice tool attachment should get the job done. You can wash the filter with water, but ensure it dries completely before reinstalling it.
- Check the insulation: To keep your air conditioner running efficiently, check to make sure the insulation remains in place and seals any cracks. If your unit doesn't have foam seals, consider buying affordable adhesive strips. Apply insulation every time you move the AC.
Twice per season:
- Vacuum the condenser coils: Grab a screwdriver and remove the back panel to access the condenser coils on the back of your unit. To keep your AC running efficiently, use a vacuum with the crevice attachment and run it lightly over the coils. Do not press hard; you don't want to dent the coils.
You can purchase logo and accolade licensing to this story here.
Disclosure: Written and researched by the Insider Reviews team. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. If you buy them, we may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our partners. We may receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. We operate independently from our advertising team. We welcome your feedback. Email us at reviews@businessinsider.com.
