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10 Best Portable Air Conditioners 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Humhold 14000 BTU Portable Air Conditioners with Remote Control, 3-in-1 Free Standing Cooling AC Unit with Fan & Dehumidifier, Cools Room up to 700 sq.ft, Smart/Sleep Mode,3 Speed,Auto Swing,24H Timer

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,475
Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Noise Level
Size and Portability

Most important from
1290 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTU)
The Humhold 14000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner is fantastic for cooling spaces quickly, even in challenging conditions like a workshop with high temperatures.
Noise Level
Quiet operation and sleep mode ensure a comfortable night's sleep without disturbances.
Size and Portability
Despite its compact size, the unit effectively keeps entire areas cool, with users noting its performance during intense summer heat.
Dehumidification Function
In very humid conditions, the unit may require more frequent draining, but placing it on a raised surface can make this process easier.
Programmable Timer and Remote Control
The remote control and adjustable settings add a layer of convenience, making it easy to operate from a distance.

The Humhold 14000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner is a robust choice for cooling large spaces up to 700 square feet. Its powerful cooling capacity is supplemented by an energy-efficient compressor and the ability to maintain temperatures from 61°F to 88°F. This model also functions as a dehumidifier and fan, adding versatility with a dehumidification capacity of up to 95 pints per day. The built-in self-evaporation system reduces the need for frequent draining, though in more humid environments, manual draining every 8 hours may be necessary.

Users will appreciate the convenience of the front LED display and remote control, which can manage settings from up to 23 feet away. The smart and sleep modes help in energy saving and maintaining comfortable temperatures while also offering quiet operations suited for bedrooms with a noise level under 48dB. The auto-swing feature ensures even distribution of cool air throughout the room.

For ease of movement and installation, the unit comes with 360° wheels and a window sealing kit, which fits most vertical and horizontal windows. However, the unit's reservoir capacity is only 1 liter, so in very humid conditions, users might find themselves emptying it more frequently. Despite this, its range of features, ease of use, and powerful performance make it a strong contender for those seeking a portable and effective cooling solution.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,475
Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Noise Level
Size and Portability

Most important from
1290 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTU)
The Humhold 14000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner is fantastic for cooling spaces quickly, even in challenging conditions like a workshop with high temperatures.
Noise Level
Quiet operation and sleep mode ensure a comfortable night's sleep without disturbances.
Size and Portability
Despite its compact size, the unit effectively keeps entire areas cool, with users noting its performance during intense summer heat.
Dehumidification Function
In very humid conditions, the unit may require more frequent draining, but placing it on a raised surface can make this process easier.
Programmable Timer and Remote Control
The remote control and adjustable settings add a layer of convenience, making it easy to operate from a distance.
#2

Dreo Portable Air Conditioners, 12,000 BTU AC Unit for Bedroom with Drainage-free Cooling, 46dB Quiet, APP/Voice/Remote, 24h Timer with Fan & Dehumidifier, Smart Standing AC for Room Indoors, AC515S

Rating
9.8
Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Noise Level
Programmable Timer and Remote Control

Most important from
318 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Actual functional cooling over a space, with a great compressor and strong airflow.
Noise Level
The unit works very well and is very quiet, even on high settings.
Programmable Timer and Remote Control
The mobile app is convenient for configuring and setting schedules, enhancing user experience.

The Dreo Portable Air Conditioner offers a robust cooling capacity of 12,000 BTU, making it suitable for medium-sized rooms up to 300 square feet. A standout feature is its quiet operation at 46dB, ideal for bedrooms and offices where noise levels are critical. Additionally, it offers a 3-in-1 functionality with cooling, dehumidifying, and fan modes, adding versatility to its usage.

The unit is relatively portable, thanks to its compact dimensions and the inclusion of handles and castors, making it easy to move around as needed. The drainage-free design in cooling mode when humidity is below 85% is convenient, reducing the need for frequent maintenance. Smart control options via app, voice, and remote, along with a programmable timer, enhance user convenience and customization.

Its effectiveness largely depends on proper installation, which is facilitated by the universal window kit provided. Potential buyers should note that it requires batteries for the remote and comes with a one-year warranty.

Rating
9.8
Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Noise Level
Programmable Timer and Remote Control

Most important from
318 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Actual functional cooling over a space, with a great compressor and strong airflow.
Noise Level
The unit works very well and is very quiet, even on high settings.
Programmable Timer and Remote Control
The mobile app is convenient for configuring and setting schedules, enhancing user experience.
#3

SereneLife Small Air Conditioner Portable 12,000 BTU with Built-in Dehumidifier + Heat - Portable AC unit for rooms up to 550 sq ft - Remote Control, Window Mount Exhaust Kit

Rating
9.7
Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Noise Level
Size and Portability

Most important from
20543 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTU)
The unit effectively cools large spaces, such as a 1000 sq ft living/dining room area, with the help of ceiling fans to circulate air.
Noise Level
The SereneLife unit is much quieter than previous units owned, providing a more peaceful environment.
Size and Portability
The unit is easy to move on various floor types, including carpet, laminate, and parquet.
Programmable Timer and Remote Control
The remote control is small and easy to use, though it lacks a display screen.
Ventilation and Exhaust
The exhaust hose is made of heavy, more rigid plastic material that easily snaps into the unit, making setup straightforward.

The SereneLife Small Air Conditioner Portable 12,000 BTU is a versatile unit that offers both cooling and heating functions, making it suitable for year-round use. With a cooling capacity of 12,000 BTU, it can effectively cool rooms up to 550 sq ft, making it ideal for bedrooms, living rooms, or even a garage. The built-in dehumidifier is a valuable feature for reducing humidity levels, adding to the comfort of your living space.

Its Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) and Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) are commendable, ensuring decent energy savings. The unit operates at a noise level of 56 dB, which is relatively quiet, but may still be noticeable in a silent room. It’s designed to be portable with rolling wheels, although its weight of 70.3 pounds might make it slightly cumbersome for frequent moving. The dimensions of 13.4 x 17.4 x 32.1 inches are fairly compact, making it easier to place in various rooms.

The programmable timer and remote control add to the convenience of setting and adjusting the unit’s functions without needing to get up. Additionally, the automatic swing mode maximizes air circulation throughout the room. The exhaust hose and window mount kit included facilitate straightforward installation. Those seeking a portable air conditioner with additional heating and dehumidification capabilities will likely find this product to be a good fit for their needs.

Rating
9.7
Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Noise Level
Size and Portability

Most important from
20543 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTU)
The unit effectively cools large spaces, such as a 1000 sq ft living/dining room area, with the help of ceiling fans to circulate air.
Noise Level
The SereneLife unit is much quieter than previous units owned, providing a more peaceful environment.
Size and Portability
The unit is easy to move on various floor types, including carpet, laminate, and parquet.
Programmable Timer and Remote Control
The remote control is small and easy to use, though it lacks a display screen.
Ventilation and Exhaust
The exhaust hose is made of heavy, more rigid plastic material that easily snaps into the unit, making setup straightforward.

Buying Guide for the Best Portable Air Conditioners

Choosing the right portable air conditioner can make a significant difference in your comfort during hot weather. Portable air conditioners are convenient because they can be moved from room to room, providing cooling where you need it most. To find the best fit for you, it's important to understand the key specifications and how they relate to your needs. Here are the main factors to consider when selecting a portable air conditioner.
Cooling Capacity (BTU)Cooling capacity, measured in British Thermal Units (BTU), indicates how much heat the air conditioner can remove from a room per hour. This is crucial because it determines the size of the room the unit can effectively cool. Units with lower BTU ratings (5,000-8,000 BTU) are suitable for small rooms up to 300 square feet, while mid-range units (8,000-12,000 BTU) can handle medium-sized rooms up to 500 square feet. Higher BTU ratings (12,000-14,000 BTU) are ideal for larger rooms up to 700 square feet. To pick the right one, consider the size of the room you need to cool and choose a unit with an appropriate BTU rating.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)The Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) measures the air conditioner's efficiency by comparing the cooling capacity (BTU) to the power consumption (watts). A higher EER indicates a more efficient unit, which can save you money on energy bills. EER values typically range from 8 to 12. For better energy savings, look for units with an EER of 10 or higher. If you plan to use the air conditioner frequently, investing in a higher EER unit can be beneficial in the long run.
Noise LevelNoise level, measured in decibels (dB), indicates how loud the air conditioner will be during operation. This is important if you plan to use the unit in a bedroom, office, or any other quiet space. Portable air conditioners usually have noise levels ranging from 50 to 70 dB. For a quieter experience, look for units with noise levels below 55 dB. If noise is not a major concern, you can opt for units with higher noise levels.
Size and PortabilityThe size and weight of the portable air conditioner affect its ease of movement and storage. Smaller, lighter units are easier to move around and store when not in use. Consider the dimensions and weight of the unit, especially if you plan to move it frequently between rooms. Look for models with built-in handles and caster wheels for added convenience. If portability is a priority, choose a compact and lightweight model.
Dehumidification FunctionMany portable air conditioners also have a dehumidification function, which removes excess moisture from the air. This is particularly useful in humid climates, as it can make the room feel cooler and more comfortable. The dehumidification capacity is measured in pints per hour. If you live in a humid area, look for a unit with a higher dehumidification capacity to improve comfort and air quality.
Programmable Timer and Remote ControlA programmable timer allows you to set the air conditioner to turn on or off at specific times, which can help save energy and ensure the room is cool when you need it. A remote control adds convenience by allowing you to adjust settings from a distance. If you value convenience and energy savings, look for units with these features. They can enhance your overall experience and make the unit easier to use.
Ventilation and ExhaustPortable air conditioners require proper ventilation to expel hot air outside. Most units come with a window kit for easy installation. It's important to ensure that the unit you choose can be easily vented in your space. Check the length of the exhaust hose and the compatibility of the window kit with your window type. If you have non-standard windows, you may need to look for units with more flexible installation options.

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