7 Best Quiet Portable Air Conditioning Units 2025 in the United States

The BLACK+DECKER Portable Air Conditioner, with its 12,000 BTU (ASHRAE) / 8,000 BTU (DOE) cooling capacity, can effectively cool rooms up to 550 sq. ft. It offers a good balance of cooling performance and functionality. The unit operates at a noise level of 52 dB, which is relatively quiet, making it suitable for use in bedrooms or home offices where a low noise level is crucial. Its Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) of 5.8 is modest, meaning it may not be the most energy-efficient option available, but it should still provide decent energy savings compared to older models.

The portability of this air conditioner is enhanced by its caster wheels and side handles, which make it easy to move from room to room. Additionally, the included window kit simplifies the installation process. The 'Follow Me' remote control feature is a significant convenience, as it enables more precise temperature control by allowing the remote to act as a thermostat. The unit also functions as a dehumidifier and fan, adding to its versatility. However, it has a relatively small water tank capacity of 0.8 liters, which might require frequent emptying in high humidity conditions.

The programmable timer feature allows users to set the unit to turn on or off at specific times, which can help save on energy costs. The BLACK+DECKER Portable Air Conditioner offers a range of useful features and solid performance, its energy efficiency might be a consideration for those looking for the most cost-effective operation. It is a well-rounded option for those needing a portable cooling solution for medium-sized rooms.

The Whynter Portable Air Conditioner is a high-performing unit that caters to large spaces up to 500 sq. ft. It has a strong cooling capacity of 14,000 BTU, making it effective for significant areas. One of its standout features is the low noise level of 51 dBA, which makes it suitable for quiet environments like bedrooms. The unit is energy efficient with a SEER of 7.69, although it doesn't have an Energy Star rating.

Portability is well addressed with its compact dimensions and the inclusion of an extendable window kit and hoses. The built-in dehumidifier is highly efficient, with a capacity of 71 pints per day, which is great for maintaining comfort in humid conditions. Additionally, the device offers three operational modes—cool, dehumidify, and fan—with a programmable timer and remote control for convenience.

However, the unit can be relatively power-intensive, with a max consumption of 1300 W. Another limitation is the lack of Energy Star certification, which may be a consideration for energy-conscious users. Despite these drawbacks, its award-winning performance, dual hose design, and user-friendly features make it a solid choice for those needing a quiet, portable cooling solution.

The Midea Duo 12,000 BTU portable air conditioner is designed to cool rooms up to 450 sq. ft. with a strong, efficient airflow thanks to its unique dual hose design that both intakes and exhausts air outdoors. This helps deliver faster and more balanced cooling while preventing warm air from leaking inside, which is a notable advantage over single hose models. It operates very quietly at just 42 dB, about the noise level of a quiet library, making it a good fit for bedrooms or home offices where low noise is important. The inverter technology improves energy efficiency, consuming roughly 40% less power than typical portable AC units, which saves on electricity bills.

It includes convenient features like a programmable remote control, compatibility with Alexa and Google Assistant for voice commands, and a smartphone app for easy adjustment from anywhere. While it does not prominently advertise a dedicated dehumidification function, the cooling process naturally reduces humidity in the room. On the portability side, the unit is somewhat bulky and weighs around 73 pounds, which means it might be challenging to move around frequently without help. It includes a dust filter for cleaner air but does not have a battery option, so it requires a standard power outlet.

If you prioritize quiet operation, smart controls, and efficient cooling in a mid-sized room, the Midea Duo is a solid choice, though its size and weight could limit how portable it feels compared to lighter models.