Summer is officially here, and, unfortunately, so are triple-digit temperatures in many parts of the country. During sizzling temperatures like this, you don't want to be caught unprepared without access to a reliable air conditioner. Luckily, we've got you covered with where to buy air conditioners before the next heat wave hits.
You're probably already sweating, so don't sweat finding an effective and efficient cooling solution for your home. We're here to help with the best places to buy window and portable units that fit spaces of any shape and size, whether you live in a two-story house or a studio apartment. With some cheap window units under $200, you'll be able to snag an air conditioner at any price point.
Ahead, find where to buy air conditioners, along with some tested picks we recommend for each category. Keep in mind that the best models are likely to sell out as the summer continues, so we suggest shopping sooner rather than later.
Where to buy window air conditioners
Tried-and-true window units are almost always the best option for cooling your space if you don't have central air. Options are available that can effectively cool rooms of all sizes, and they tend to be more efficient than portable models. Plus, they take up virtually no space, even in small apartments. Browse units from Frigidaire, GE, and more.
Window air conditioners we recommend
If you have a medium-sized room, the Friedrich Chill Premier Smart Window Air Conditioner (CCF08A10A) is your best option with its impressive cooling abilities, smart connectivity, and long warranty.
The main differences are this model is not Wi-Fi-enabled and has more cooling power at 12,000 BTU (versus 10,000) so it can cool rooms of between 450 and 550 square feet in size.
Frigidaire is one of our favorite air conditioner brands, and this 10,000-Btu unit is Energy Star-certified and features WiFi connectivity.
Where to buy portable air conditioners
While window units often deliver the best air conditioning results and are more affordable, they can be a hassle to install, and not every space, including windowless rooms, will accommodate them. Luckily, investing in one of the best portable air conditioners can get the job done while also offering more flexibility, as they can be moved from room to room with ease. Browse options from Midea, Black + Decker, and more.
If you're unsure whether a window unit or portable unit is right for you, check out our portable air conditioners versus window air conditioners guide for a full comparison.
Portable air conditioners we recommend
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.
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.
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.
Where to buy cheap air conditioners under $200
You already have an energy bill to pay, so purchasing your air conditioning unit alone shouldn't break the bank. Luckily, there are still plenty of high-quality window units and portable air conditioners under $200. Browse through budget options from GE, homeLabs, Whirlpool, and more.
Budget air conditioners we recommend
If ACs are allowed in your dorm and you can afford it, this GE air conditioner is an outstanding option. It's a lower-BTU version of our best budget air conditioner so your room won't get too cold and clammy.
The 5,000 BTU hOmeLabs Window Air Conditioner is easy to use and great for smaller rooms, but the best thing about it is that it costs just over $100.
While we haven't tested this window air conditioner, Amazon Basics consistently makes quality products at a budget price. This unit will help you cool a small room without breaking the bank.
Where to buy energy-efficient air conditioners
Certain air conditioners can waste a lot of energy. So if you're trying to curb your energy usage as much as possible (or save on your electric bill) this summer, we recommend checking out these more efficient options. Many of these picks feature an energy-saving mode or are ENERGY STAR certified by the US Environment Protection Agency. Browse models from Toshiba, Hisense, and more.
Energy-efficient air conditioners we recommend
The LG LW1517IVSM Dual Inverter Smart Window Air Conditioner provides an impressive combination of quiet operation, outstanding performance, and energy efficiency.
This AC fits a wide array of window sizes, is simple to install, features multi-directional airflow control, and is energy-efficient.
For rooms of up to 250 square feet, the Frigidaire FHWW063WBE 6,000 BTU Air Conditioner hits all of the right notes with low energy usage, low noise levels, and easy installation in a variety of window sizes.
Check out our roundup of the best electric fans for more ways to stay cool this summer.
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