10 Best Cheap Window Ac Unit 2026 in the United States

The Amazon Basics 5000 BTU Small Window Air Conditioner is a practical choice for cooling small spaces up to 150 square feet, such as bedrooms or home offices. With 5000 BTUs, it offers enough cooling power for compact rooms but won't be ideal for larger areas. Its Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) is decent, helping to keep electricity use reasonable for a budget unit. A notable plus is the low noise level, around 56 dB, making it quiet enough for sleeping or working without disruption. Installation is straightforward thanks to adjustable side panels and a mounting kit, fitting standard windows between 23" and 36" wide.

The unit includes useful features like a washable filter that helps reduce dust and allergens, multiple fan speeds, 7 temperature settings, and two-way air direction control for customized comfort. However, it relies on basic mechanical controls, which might feel less modern compared to digital panels, and it requires a screwdriver for setup, which could challenge those unfamiliar with window AC installation. This unit delivers solid, no-frills cooling for small rooms and users looking for an affordable, easy-to-maintain option without advanced smart features.

The Amazon Basics 6000 BTU window air conditioner is a solid choice for cooling small to medium rooms up to 250 square feet, such as bedrooms or home offices. Its 6000 BTU cooling capacity is adequate for these spaces, and it offers both cooling and fan-only modes for flexible use. With a SEER rating of 12.1, it provides decent energy efficiency, helping keep electricity costs manageable. Noise levels max out around 56 decibels, which is relatively quiet and suitable for sleeping or working without much disturbance. Installation is straightforward thanks to an adjustable window kit that fits most standard windows between 23 and 36 inches wide; however, you will need a basic screwdriver to set it up. The unit features an easy-to-clean washable filter that helps reduce dust and allergens, enhancing air quality.

Another nice touch is the customizable comfort options, including seven temperature settings, two fan speeds, and adjustable airflow direction, allowing you to tailor the cooling to your preference. On the downside, the unit weighs about 42 pounds, which could make handling it a bit awkward during installation. Also, while the mechanical controls are simple to use, they don’t offer the precision or convenience of digital controls or remote operation found in some other models. This AC offers good value for those seeking an affordable, no-frills window unit for smaller spaces, especially if you prioritize ease of maintenance and quiet operation.

The Midea 8,000 BTU Smart Inverter Window Air Conditioner is a strong choice if you need to cool or heat a room up to about 350 square feet without spending too much. Its cooling capacity is solid for medium-sized rooms, and the unit includes a heat pump function, which is useful for keeping warm in milder cold weather (above 41°F). This makes it more versatile than many basic window ACs. It’s Energy Star rated and uses inverter technology, which means it’s designed to save on electricity—up to 35% compared to standard models—helping lower your energy bills.

Noise-wise, this unit performs well with a low noise level around 45 decibels, so it won’t disrupt conversations, work calls, or sleep. The size fits most double-hung windows easily, and installation comes with a kit to help set it up. The remote control and smart features (WiFi, Alexa, Google Assistant) add convenience, allowing you to adjust settings without needing to get up.

There are some limitations to consider: the heating function only works efficiently when outside temperatures are above 41°F, so it’s not suitable as a main heater in colder climates. Also, while its upfront cost is reasonable for a smart inverter unit, it may be pricier than the simplest window ACs without heat or smart controls. The 1-year warranty is fairly standard but might be short if you want longer coverage. If you want a budget-friendly window AC that’s quiet, energy efficient, and offers both cooling and supplemental heating with smart controls, the Midea 8000 BTU unit is a practical pick. Just keep in mind its heating limits and check that your window size fits the installation requirements.