10 Best Stand Alone Air Conditioning Units 2025 in the United States

The BLACK+DECKER Portable Air Conditioner is a versatile unit designed for rooms up to 450 square feet. With a cooling capacity of 10,000 BTU (ASHRAE) or 6,300 BTU (DOE), it’s effective for medium-sized spaces. One of its standout features is the 'Follow Me' remote control, which acts as a thermostat, ensuring precise temperature control wherever you are in the room.

The unit is also a 3-in-1 device, functioning as an air conditioner, dehumidifier, and fan, which adds to its versatility. It's easy to move around thanks to the casters and side handles, making it a good choice for those who might need to relocate it between rooms frequently. The installation kit for the window is user-friendly, making setup straightforward.

The noise level is at 52 dB, which might be noticeable in quieter rooms, especially during the night. The energy efficiency ratio (EER) is not the highest at 6.7, so it may not be the best option if energy savings are a top priority. This portable AC unit is well-suited for those looking for a balance between cooling capability and portability, along with the added benefits of remote control and multi-functionality, but be mindful of the energy consumption and noise levels.

The BLACK+DECKER Smart Portable Air Conditioner with Heat offers versatility with its 12,000 BTU (ASHRAE) cooling capacity and 9,000 BTU heating capacity, making it suitable for rooms up to 550 sq. ft. The unit's energy efficiency ratio (SEER) is relatively low at 5.8, meaning it might not be the most energy-efficient option available. However, it compensates with several convenient features, like Wi-Fi connectivity, voice control compatibility with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, and a 'Follow Me' remote that ensures more precise temperature control by acting as a thermostat.

The noise level of 52 dB is moderate, suitable for most living spaces without causing significant disturbance. The portability is a strong point here, with the unit designed as a standalone on wheels, allowing for easy movement between rooms. Additionally, the dehumidification function and programmable timer and thermostat provide added flexibility and comfort. The air filter ensures cleaner air circulation within the room.

On the downside, the unit is relatively heavy at 57.6 pounds, which may make it a bit cumbersome for some users to relocate frequently. Also, it is not Energy Star certified, indicating it may not be the best in energy savings. Despite these drawbacks, this BLACK+DECKER model remains a versatile choice due to its multi-functionality.

The SereneLife Small Portable Air Conditioner offers solid cooling power with a 10,000 BTU capacity, making it suitable for rooms up to about 450 square feet. It’s designed to be versatile with three modes—cooling, dehumidifying, and fan—which can help maintain comfortable air quality by also reducing humidity. The unit’s energy efficiency ratio (SEER of 10.5) is decent for a portable AC, though not the highest available, so it strikes a reasonable balance between power and electricity use.

Portability is a strong point thanks to smooth wheels and handles, although it weighs about 55 pounds, so it’s not ultra-light but still manageable for moving between rooms. Noise levels are in the low-to-mid 50 dB range, which means it’s relatively quiet but still noticeable, similar to a normal conversation, so it shouldn’t disrupt most activities. The included remote control and digital control panel make it easy to adjust settings like temperature, fan speed, and timer, though it lacks some advanced programmable thermostat features found in higher-end models. Its air filter is washable and double-layered, helping reduce dust and allergens, which is great for improving indoor air quality.

Installation comes with a window exhaust kit and hose, which is standard for portable units but requires some setup space near a window. The built-in dehumidifier with manual or automatic drainage options adds convenience in humid climates. This SereneLife unit is a practical choice for those seeking decent cooling and dehumidifying performance in a portable AC that’s fairly easy to move and operate. It is ideal for medium-sized rooms and users who want basic but reliable cooling without too much fuss. Users looking for ultra-quiet operation, very high energy efficiency, or advanced programmable features might consider exploring other models.