Best Portable Air Conditioners 2025
Beat the heat in any room—no installation needed! Our experts reviewed and ranked the best portable air conditioners for 2025, including models for large rooms, energy efficiency, and whisper-quiet operation. Stay cool and comfortable all summer long, with top picks that balance power, features, and easy mobility.
Skip to Top Portable ACsFAQs – Portable Air Conditioners 2025
How do portable air conditioners work?They cool and dehumidify by drawing in hot air, chilling it with refrigerant, and venting hot air outside using an included hose and window kit. Just plug in, vent, and chill!
What size portable AC do I need?Match AC BTU rating to your room size: 8,000–10,000 BTU for bedrooms/small rooms (up to 300 sq. ft.), 12,000–14,000 BTU for large rooms (up to 700 sq. ft.). More BTUs = more cooling.
Can I use one unit for multiple rooms?Most units are designed for a single enclosed room at a time. You can roll it to new rooms (reinstall vent kit), but they're best for spot cooling one area.
Do these require drainage or emptying water?Most models self-evaporate, but some may need you to empty a water tank in very humid areas. Always check manufacturer instructions.
How loud are portable air conditioners?Most are 50–56 dB (like a quiet conversation). Look for inverter models or check decibel ratings for quietest operation, especially overnight or in an office.
Can I use a portable AC if I have sliding windows?Yes, but you may need a special window kit or a separate accessory for vertical/sliding windows. Check before buying.

BLACK+DECKER Smart Portable Air Conditioner with Heat, 14,000 BTU
Massive power and four seasons of comfort! This portable AC cools or heats spaces up to 700 sq. ft., includes a dehumidifier mode, smart app control, and a "Follow Me" remote. Reliable, easy to use, and the #1 Best Seller for good reason.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
✔ Cools and heats (14,000/12,000 BTU) ✔ For large rooms up to 700 sq. ft. ✔ App & remote control ✔ Includes heating & dehumidifier ✔ Trusted brand |
✖ Bulkier/heavier than some ✖ Needs standard window kit install ✖ Fan noise on max |
Best For | Large rooms, year-round climate control, smart home integration |

Midea Duo 12,000 BTU High Efficiency Inverter Portable AC
Ultra-quiet, energy-saving inverter tech keeps rooms cool up to 450 sq. ft. Smart features include Alexa/Google Assistant, app & remote control. Ideal for sleeping or offices where you want powerful chill without the roar.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
✔ Inverter for quiet/efficient operation ✔ Voice, app, or remote control ✔ Powerful dehumidifier ✔ Sleek and compact |
✖ Less cooling power than some ✖ Setup can be a process ✖ No heating mode |
Best For | Quiet operation, energy efficiency, bedrooms and offices |

Whynter 14,000 BTU Dual Hose Portable Air Conditioner
Amazon's Choice for fast, effective cooling! This dual-hose powerhouse chills rooms up to 500 sq. ft., reduces humidity, and runs multiple fan speeds. Includes easy window kit for fast setup—great for apartments, bedrooms, or home offices.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
✔ Dual-hose design = faster cooling ✔ Amazon's Choice ✔ High capacity for big rooms ✔ Includes all setup hardware |
✖ Heaviest of the bunch ✖ Not as quiet as inverter models ✖ Fan runs on all settings |
Best For | Fast cooling, large rooms, apartments and home offices |
Why Choose These Portable Air Conditioners?
Performance-Tested & Climate-Approved
Every air conditioner here is selected for its reliable cooling, smart controls, and energy efficiency—at prices that make sense. Our picks feature:
- High cooling power for fast results in various room sizes
- Easy rolling and setup—move them where you need and install in minutes
- Multiple modes: cool, heat, dehumidify, and fan-only settings
- Smart features: app, voice, or remote controls
- Top ratings & trusted brands—thousands of happy owners
- Energy efficiency to keep utility costs manageable during hot summer months
No central AC? No problem! These portable units keep you comfortable anywhere, any time.
Portable Air Conditioner Shopping Tips
How to Choose the Perfect Portable AC
- Measure your room: Match BTU size to square footage for best results.
- Check exhaust & window compatibility: Will the hose fit your window style?
- Consider energy consumption: Inverter models or Energy Star units save on power bills.
- Think about moving & storage: Make sure you can roll it where you need and stash it in the off-season.
- Read reviews about noise: If you're a light sleeper or using in a bedroom, look for quieter ratings!
- Plan for maintenance: Regular filter cleaning and proper ventilation keep units running efficiently
- Consider dual-hose vs single-hose: Dual-hose models cool faster and are more energy efficient