10 Best Cheap Portable Ac 2025 in the United States

The BLACK+DECKER Smart Portable Air Conditioner promises to provide a robust cooling solution for rooms up to 700 sq. ft. With a cooling capacity of 14,000 BTU (ASHRAE) and 10,000 BTU (DOE), it is quite powerful for its category. Its three-in-one functionality as an air conditioner, dehumidifier, and fan adds to its versatility. The unit's portability is highlighted by its manageable dimensions and weight of 62.4 pounds, making it relatively easy to move between rooms.

A significant advantage is the smart features like Wi-Fi connectivity and voice control via Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, enhancing convenience. The 'Follow Me' remote control is another user-friendly feature, offering precise temperature control by acting as a thermostat. The included window installation kit simplifies the setup process.

There are some considerations to keep in mind. The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) of 6.2 is lower compared to other models, suggesting it might not be the most energy-efficient option in the long run. Additionally, while the noise level is relatively moderate at 54 dB, it may still be noticeable to some users. Despite these drawbacks, the BLACK+DECKER Smart Portable Air Conditioner remains a strong contender in the budget portable AC category, especially for those seeking additional smart features and multifunctionality.

The BLACK+DECKER 8,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner is a solid choice for cooling rooms up to 350 sq. ft. Its compact size (14 x 15.3 x 24.8 inches) and portability, aided by casters and side handles, make it easy to move around your home. The 3-in-1 functionality—air conditioner, dehumidifier, and fan—adds value, offering versatile use throughout the year.

The included remote control with a 'FOLLOW ME' feature enhances convenience by allowing more precise temperature control based on the remote's location, not just the unit's sensor. Installation is straightforward with the included window kit, making it user-friendly even for those not particularly handy. However, the energy efficiency ratio (EER) of 5.4 is on the lower end, meaning it may not be the most energy-efficient option available and could result in higher electricity bills.

The noise level is at 54 dB, which is relatively moderate but could still be noticeable, especially in quieter environments. Users looking for a very silent operation might find this a bit disruptive. The cooling capacity of 8,000 BTU is adequate for small to medium-sized rooms, but it might struggle in larger spaces or during extremely hot days. Although the unit is light for an air conditioner (45.8 lbs.), it might still be cumbersome for some users to move frequently. For the price point, it offers a good balance of features and performance, particularly suitable for those needing an affordable, portable cooling solution for smaller rooms.

The BLACK+DECKER 12,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner is a solid choice for cooling rooms up to 550 sq. ft. Its compact size and portability make it ideal for moving between rooms, thanks to the casters and side handles. The unit functions as a 3-in-1 device, working as an air conditioner, dehumidifier, and fan, which adds to its versatility.

The Follow Me remote control is a standout feature, allowing for precise temperature control by acting as a thermostat. This can be particularly useful for those who want to maintain a consistent temperature across the room without manually adjusting the settings frequently. The noise level is relatively low at 52 dB, making it suitable for bedrooms or offices where quiet is important.

The energy efficiency ratio (EER) of 5.8 is not the highest, which means it might not be the most energy-efficient option on the market. The unit's cooling power is strong at 12,000 BTUs, but its energy consumption might be a consideration for those looking to minimize their power bills. Setup is straightforward with the included window installation kit, and features like auto water evaporation add convenience by reducing the need for manual draining. Weighing 56.8 pounds, it's not the lightest portable AC but still manageable for most users. This air conditioner is best suited for those needing a versatile, portable cooling solution for medium-sized rooms and are okay with a moderate level of energy efficiency.