10 Best Affordable Air Conditioners 2025 in the United States

The BLACK+DECKER Smart Portable Air Conditioner offers a solid cooling capacity of 12,000 BTU, making it suitable for rooms around 500 to 550 square feet, such as medium-sized bedrooms or small living spaces. This portable unit is easy to move between rooms without requiring permanent installation. It includes smart features like Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing control via a mobile app or voice assistants such as Alexa and Google Assistant, which is convenient for modern users. The included 'Follow Me' remote enhances comfort by using its sensor to maintain precise temperature control near you. Additionally, it functions as a fan and dehumidifier, providing versatility beyond just cooling.

In terms of noise, it operates at about 52 decibels, which is moderate and should be fairly quiet during normal use, although it could be noticeable in very quiet rooms. The energy efficiency ratio (SEER) is 5.8, which is not particularly high, and it lacks an Energy Star rating, so it may consume more electricity compared to more efficient models, potentially increasing your electric bill over time. Installation is user-friendly thanks to a included window kit, which simplifies setup. A minor drawback is the relatively small water capacity of 0.8 liters, meaning frequent draining could be necessary in highly humid environments. The unit comes with a 1-year warranty, which is standard but somewhat short.

The BLACK+DECKER 10,000 BTU portable air conditioner is a solid choice if you need to cool rooms up to about 450 square feet. Its cooling capacity is suitable for small to medium spaces, making it a practical option for bedrooms or living rooms. It also doubles as a dehumidifier and fan, which adds versatility beyond just cooling. The unit is fairly easy to move around thanks to built-in casters and side handles, which is handy if you want to use it in different rooms.

With a noise level of 52 dB, it runs at a moderate sound level—quiet enough for sleeping but not completely silent. Energy efficiency is decent, with a Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) of 6.7 and a 5-star Energy Star rating, meaning it won't cause excessive power bills for an affordable model. The inclusion of a remote control, LED display, 24-hour timer, and washable filter makes operation straightforward and maintenance simple. Installation is user-friendly with the provided window kit.

Its actual cooling power (SACC rating) is around 5800 BTU, which is lower than the stated 10,000 BTU, so it might struggle a bit in very hot conditions or larger rooms. Also, while portable, it weighs about 47 pounds, which might be a bit heavy for some users to handle frequently. If you want a multifunctional, reasonably quiet, and energy-conscious portable AC for moderate room sizes, this BLACK+DECKER model is worth considering.

The BLACK+DECKER 8,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner is a versatile and affordable solution for cooling spaces up to 350 square feet. Its 3-in-1 functionality allows it to operate as an air conditioner, dehumidifier, and fan, making it a practical choice for various needs. The unit includes a remote control with a FOLLOW ME function, enabling more precise temperature control by acting as a thermostat.

It is easy to move around, thanks to casters and side handles, and comes with an installation kit for straightforward setup. The noise level is relatively moderate at 54 dB, which should be comfortable for most users, including those who wish to use it in a bedroom. The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) of 5.4 is on the lower side, indicating it might not be the most energy-efficient option available. Also, at 52.9 pounds, it is a bit heavy compared to some other portable units.

This air conditioner would be a good fit for individuals looking for an affordable, easy-to-use cooling solution with versatile features.