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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

BLACK+DECKER Smart Portable Air Conditioner with Heat, 14,000 BTU (10,200 BTU SACC) Cooling, 12,000 BTU Heating for Rooms up to 700 Sq. Ft., Follow Me Remote, BPACT14HWT, White

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,466
Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Noise Level

Most important from
43828 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTU)
This unit cools rooms swiftly and maintains the temperature efficiently by cycling on and off, which suggests potential savings on energy costs compared to continuous-running models.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
This unit cools rooms swiftly and maintains the temperature efficiently by cycling on and off, which suggests potential savings on energy costs compared to continuous-running models.
Noise Level
The noise level is pleasantly moderate; it's quieter than many previous portable ACs and allows comfortable conversations nearby without needing to turn it off.
Dehumidification Function
Users appreciate the multi-functionality of the unit, combining cooling, heating, dehumidifying, and fan modes to provide year-round versatility.
Programmable Timer and Remote Control
Remote control usability is hindered by a dim LCD screen that lacks illumination, making it difficult to read in low-light conditions.
Ventilation and Exhaust
The hose attachment design is impressively secure and foolproof, locking firmly in place to prevent detachment and avoid blowing hot air back into the room.

The BLACK+DECKER Smart Portable Air Conditioner is a versatile unit with a solid cooling capacity of 14,000 BTU, making it suitable for rooms up to 700 square feet. It also doubles as a heater (up to 10,000 BTU), which is handy for year-round use. The device includes a dehumidifier and fan, adding to its functionality beyond just cooling. Its noise level is about 54 dB, which is moderate and might be noticeable but not overly disruptive in most home settings. The unit is somewhat large and weighs around 60 pounds, so while it's portable, it might not be the easiest to move frequently without some effort. It comes with an installation kit for window venting, simplifying setup.

Energy efficiency is average (SEER 6.2), and this model isn’t Energy Star certified, so it may use more power compared to more efficient options. The smart features, including Wi-Fi connectivity and voice control with Alexa or Google Assistant, add convenience, and the Follow Me remote is a neat feature that helps maintain precise temperature by using the remote as a thermostat. Programmable timer and full remote control improve user-friendliness. However, the water capacity for dehumidification is limited (0.8 liters), meaning you might need to empty it relatively often in very humid conditions. The lack of Energy Star rating and moderate noise level might be drawbacks for users prioritizing low energy consumption and quieter operation.

With a one-year warranty and positive customer ratings, this product represents a dependable choice for those needing a multi-function portable AC that covers both cooling and heating, suitable for medium to large rooms.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,466
Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Noise Level

Most important from
43828 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTU)
This unit cools rooms swiftly and maintains the temperature efficiently by cycling on and off, which suggests potential savings on energy costs compared to continuous-running models.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
This unit cools rooms swiftly and maintains the temperature efficiently by cycling on and off, which suggests potential savings on energy costs compared to continuous-running models.
Noise Level
The noise level is pleasantly moderate; it's quieter than many previous portable ACs and allows comfortable conversations nearby without needing to turn it off.
Dehumidification Function
Users appreciate the multi-functionality of the unit, combining cooling, heating, dehumidifying, and fan modes to provide year-round versatility.
Programmable Timer and Remote Control
Remote control usability is hindered by a dim LCD screen that lacks illumination, making it difficult to read in low-light conditions.
Ventilation and Exhaust
The hose attachment design is impressively secure and foolproof, locking firmly in place to prevent detachment and avoid blowing hot air back into the room.
#2

Dreo Portable Air Conditioners, 12000 BTU ASHRAE (8000 BTU DOE) Smart AC Unit for Room with Drainage-free Cooling, APP/Voice/Remote, Fan & Dehumidifier, Quiet Standing AC for Bedroom, AC515S New

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

Most important from
238 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Delivers powerful cooling capable of rapidly lowering room temperature even in large spaces, making it ideal for hot, humid environments.
Size and Portability
The product's size and weight do not compromise its portability, and it includes practical accessories like a window mount kit for easy installation.
Noise Level
Operates quietly enough to maintain comfort without overpowering noise, allowing users to enjoy activities like watching TV or relaxing without distraction.
Drainage and Water Removal
The unit’s continuous operation requires no manual draining thanks to its effective water evaporation system, even during extended use in high humidity.
Ventilation and Hose Setup
Setup is straightforward and quick, with convenient features like a large, easy-to-read remote and intuitive smartphone app controls for effortless temperature management.
Additional Features (Remote, Timers, Modes)
Setup is straightforward and quick, with convenient features like a large, easy-to-read remote and intuitive smartphone app controls for effortless temperature management.

The Dreo 12000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner offers solid cooling power suitable for rooms up to about 300 square feet, making it a good choice for bedrooms or small living spaces. Its IceCool system helps deliver fast, effective cooling with temperature control between 61°F and 86°F. One of the standout features is its patented noise isolation system, keeping operation quiet at around 45 dB, so it won’t disturb your sleep or work. This model is also notable for its true drainage-free system, which automatically evaporates excess water, sparing you the hassle of manual draining even in high humidity environments.

The unit is fairly large and weighs around 63 pounds, so while it’s portable, it might require some effort to move around. It includes a window mount kit and remote control for convenient setup and use. Energy efficiency is moderate with a SEER rating of 6.1, typical for portable ACs in this BTU range, but not the most economical option if used extensively. Ventilation requires standard hose setup through a window, which is expected in this category.

Smart climate control is a strong point: you can operate it via smartphone app or voice commands through Alexa, Google Home, and Siri. It also features multiple operation modes—cooling, fan, and dehumidifier—to adapt to different weather and comfort needs. While the unit offers many user-friendly features and quiet performance, its size and weight might limit portability for some, and energy use is average. It remains an excellent all-around choice for those wanting a smart, quiet, and hassle-free portable AC for medium-sized rooms.

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

Most important from
238 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Delivers powerful cooling capable of rapidly lowering room temperature even in large spaces, making it ideal for hot, humid environments.
Size and Portability
The product's size and weight do not compromise its portability, and it includes practical accessories like a window mount kit for easy installation.
Noise Level
Operates quietly enough to maintain comfort without overpowering noise, allowing users to enjoy activities like watching TV or relaxing without distraction.
Drainage and Water Removal
The unit’s continuous operation requires no manual draining thanks to its effective water evaporation system, even during extended use in high humidity.
Ventilation and Hose Setup
Setup is straightforward and quick, with convenient features like a large, easy-to-read remote and intuitive smartphone app controls for effortless temperature management.
Additional Features (Remote, Timers, Modes)
Setup is straightforward and quick, with convenient features like a large, easy-to-read remote and intuitive smartphone app controls for effortless temperature management.
#3

BLACK+DECKER Portable Air Conditioner, 12,000 BTU (8,000 BTU SACC) for Rooms up to 550 Sq. Ft., Portable AC with Follow Me Remote Control and Window Kit, BPACT12WT, White

Rating
8.8
Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Noise Level
Ventilation and Exhaust

Most important from
43828 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Easily cools a room in a few minutes and maintains a comfortable temperature all day.
Noise Level
Much quieter than previous units, allowing conversations and phone calls without needing to turn off the AC.
Ventilation and Exhaust
The hose attachment is significantly better, staying securely in place without the need for duct tape.

The BLACK+DECKER Portable Air Conditioner is a versatile cooling solution designed for rooms up to 550 sq. ft., delivering 12,000 BTU ASHRAE (8,000 BTU DOE) cooling power. Its three-in-one functionality allows it to serve as an air conditioner, dehumidifier, and fan, making it a multifaceted appliance. The Follow Me remote control feature adds convenience by acting as a thermostat for more accurate temperature control, while the LED display and top-mounted control panel provide easy operation. The unit is designed for easy mobility with its casters and side handles, allowing for hassle-free movement between rooms.

Installation is straightforward thanks to the included window kit, and the environmentally friendly R410a refrigerant is a plus for eco-conscious users. However, the SEER of 5.8 indicates it may not be the most energy-efficient option available. Additionally, at a noise level of 52 dB, it might be quieter than some units but still noticeable in quieter settings. With a weight of 56.8 pounds, it is relatively heavy, which could be a consideration for those needing to lift it frequently. The dehumidification function is useful, but the small 0.8-liter capacity may require frequent emptying in humid conditions.

Despite these drawbacks, the unit is well-suited for individuals seeking a portable and multifunctional cooling device for medium-sized rooms.

Rating
8.8
Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Noise Level
Ventilation and Exhaust

Most important from
43828 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Easily cools a room in a few minutes and maintains a comfortable temperature all day.
Noise Level
Much quieter than previous units, allowing conversations and phone calls without needing to turn off the AC.
Ventilation and Exhaust
The hose attachment is significantly better, staying securely in place without the need for duct tape.

Buying Guide for the Best Portable Air Conditioners

Choosing a portable air conditioner is all about matching the cooling power to your space and lifestyle. Portable units are great because they're easy to move and don't require permanent installation. However, to make sure you're satisfied with your purchase, you should consider several important features that relate directly to how comfortable, convenient, and efficient the product will be for your particular needs.
Cooling Capacity (BTU)Cooling capacity, usually measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units), tells you how much heat the air conditioner can remove from a room every hour. This is very important because if you choose a unit with too low BTU for your room size, it won't be able to cool it effectively. On the other hand, if you pick one with too high a BTU rating, it may cool the air too quickly and not remove enough humidity, making the room feel clammy. Generally, smaller rooms (up to 200 sq. ft.) need lower BTU (around 8,000), medium rooms (200–400 sq. ft.) benefit from mid-range (10,000–12,000 BTUs), and larger spaces need even higher. Measure your room and match it with the BTU rating for best results.
Size and PortabilityThe size and portability of the unit determine how easily you can move it and where you can position it in your space. Lighter, more compact models are easier to shift between rooms and don’t take up as much floor area, which is ideal for small apartments or for people who may need to store the unit off-season. Bigger units might offer more cooling power, but they can be bulky and harder to move. Think about whether you need to regularly relocate your air conditioner, and check dimensions and weight to see if it fits your needs.
Noise LevelThe noise level matters, especially if you plan to use your portable air conditioner in a bedroom or a quiet office. Noise output is usually measured in decibels (dB). Lower dB ratings mean quieter operation. Generally, under 50 dB is considered quiet and is good for sleeping, while 50–60 dB is moderate and typical for living areas. If sensitive to sound, look for models with a silent or sleep mode that reduces noise.
Drainage and Water RemovalPortable air conditioners collect moisture from the air as they cool, and this water needs to go somewhere. Some models evaporate most of it and expel it through the exhaust hose; others have a reservoir that must be emptied manually. Options that auto-evaporate are more convenient, especially in humid areas, while models that require frequent draining might suit less humid conditions. Check how much maintenance you’re willing to do and pick accordingly.
Energy EfficiencyEnergy efficiency is a measure of how much cooling you get for the amount of electricity used. Look for an Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) label or an energy certification. Higher ratings mean lower energy bills and a more eco-friendly operation. If you want a unit that runs for hours or overnight, choosing a more efficient model will save electricity in the long run. Consider your usage habits to decide how much efficiency matters for you.
Ventilation and Hose SetupPortable air conditioners push out hot air through an exhaust hose, which must be vented through a window or another opening. The ease of installing the window kit and the hose length can make a big difference, especially in rooms with tricky windows. If you have special window types or need to install the unit far from a window, check the flexibility of the included accessories. Make sure the setup works for your home’s layout.
Additional Features (Remote, Timers, Modes)Extra features like remote controls, programmable timers, adjustable fan speeds, and multiple operating modes (such as dehumidification or fan-only) can add convenience and comfort. If you want to control your unit from across the room or set it to turn on or off automatically, look for these extras. Think about your lifestyle and decide which add-ons would genuinely improve your experience.

FAQ