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10 Best Cheap Window Ac Unit 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Midea 6,000 BTU Window Air Conditioner, 3-in-1 Cool/Fan/Dehumidifier Window AC Unit, Easycool Air Conditioner with Remote Control, Cools up to 250 Sq. Ft., Fits bedroom, study, office (2024 Upgrade)

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,445
Cooling Capacity (BTUs)
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Noise Level

Most important from
16800 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTUs)
It cools small spaces efficiently and quickly, delivering cold air almost immediately after starting.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Energy efficiency is impressive for its class, running at about half the power consumption compared to similar inverter models.
Noise Level
The unit runs so quietly that it’s barely noticeable even when the compressor kicks on, making it ideal for bedrooms or offices.
Size and Installation
Installation requires care as the unit can trip GFI outlets on startup, making dedicated circuits preferable for reliable operation.
Additional Features
Firmware updates have improved winter operation by enabling a defrost cycle, allowing the unit to function below 40 degrees Fahrenheit where it previously would shut down.

The Midea 6,000 BTU Window Air Conditioner is a solid choice if you're looking for an affordable unit to cool small rooms up to 250 square feet, such as bedrooms or offices. Its 6,000 BTU cooling capacity is enough to quickly cool modest spaces, making it good for personal use rather than large or open areas. The unit offers three modes—cooling, fan, and dehumidifier—which adds flexibility to help maintain comfort in different conditions.

Energy efficiency is decent with a SEER of 12.1, although it doesn't have the Energy Star certification, so it might not be the most cost-saving option in the long run compared to some higher-end models. However, features like Eco mode and a programmable timer can help you save on electricity bills by allowing better control of usage. Noise-wise, it runs quietly at about 52 decibels on low, which is comparable to a normal conversation, so it won’t disrupt sleep or work. The size is compact with straightforward installation fitting window frames from 23 to 36 inches wide, and it comes with all the mounting hardware needed, although you will need your own screwdriver. The remote control and LED display make it easy to adjust settings from across the room.

Additional perks include a reusable air filter to trap dust and pet hair, which helps improve air quality, and a one-year warranty for peace of mind. On the downside, the unit is not Energy Star certified and is made in China, which some might consider when thinking about durability or parts availability. This Midea window AC unit is a practical, budget-friendly option for cooling small spaces quietly and with some energy-saving features, but if you want top-tier efficiency or to cool larger rooms, you may want to explore other models.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,445
Cooling Capacity (BTUs)
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Noise Level

Most important from
16800 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTUs)
It cools small spaces efficiently and quickly, delivering cold air almost immediately after starting.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Energy efficiency is impressive for its class, running at about half the power consumption compared to similar inverter models.
Noise Level
The unit runs so quietly that it’s barely noticeable even when the compressor kicks on, making it ideal for bedrooms or offices.
Size and Installation
Installation requires care as the unit can trip GFI outlets on startup, making dedicated circuits preferable for reliable operation.
Additional Features
Firmware updates have improved winter operation by enabling a defrost cycle, allowing the unit to function below 40 degrees Fahrenheit where it previously would shut down.
#2

Midea 8,000 BTU Smart Inverter Air Conditioner Window Unit with Heat and Dehumidifier – Cools up to 350 Sq. Ft., Energy Star Rated, Quiet Operation, Electronic Controls, Remote Control, White

Rating
10.0
Cooling Capacity (BTUs)
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Noise Level

Most important from
16800 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTUs)
The heat pump function is impressively efficient, maintaining steady temperatures with low energy consumption around 400 watts.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
The heat pump function is impressively efficient, maintaining steady temperatures with low energy consumption around 400 watts.
Noise Level
The unit operates with exceptional quietness, barely noticeable even on the highest fan speed or turbo mode.
Size and Installation
Installation is straightforward and fits smaller windows down to about 17 inches, making it versatile for tight spaces.
Additional Features
A firmware update enabled a defrost cycle, allowing the heater to work effectively even below 41°F, overcoming the initial temperature limitation.

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.

Rating
10.0
Cooling Capacity (BTUs)
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Noise Level

Most important from
16800 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTUs)
The heat pump function is impressively efficient, maintaining steady temperatures with low energy consumption around 400 watts.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
The heat pump function is impressively efficient, maintaining steady temperatures with low energy consumption around 400 watts.
Noise Level
The unit operates with exceptional quietness, barely noticeable even on the highest fan speed or turbo mode.
Size and Installation
Installation is straightforward and fits smaller windows down to about 17 inches, making it versatile for tight spaces.
Additional Features
A firmware update enabled a defrost cycle, allowing the heater to work effectively even below 41°F, overcoming the initial temperature limitation.
#3

GE Window Air Conditioner Unit, 5,000 BTU for Small Rooms up to 150 sq ft. with Manual Adjustable Fan and Cooling Settings, Perfect for Small Bedroom or Living Room, Easy Install Kit Included, White

Rating
9.8
Cooling Capacity (BTUs)
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Noise Level

Most important from
8127 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTUs)
This small and powerful unit cools a room with high ceilings effectively, even on the low cool setting.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Running this unit 24/7 has had barely any noticeable impact on the electric bill.
Noise Level
A bit loud and clunky looking, but an excellent choice for those on a budget.
Size and Installation
The AC blends in with the window due to its compact size, avoiding the tacky look of older, bulkier units.

The GE Window Air Conditioner Unit offers a cooling capacity of 5,000 BTU, which is suitable for small rooms up to 150 sq ft, making it an excellent choice for bedrooms, studio apartments, or home offices. One of its strengths is the easy installation process facilitated by the included EZ Mount installation kit. The unit is compact, with dimensions of 15 x 16.44 x 12.56 inches, and operates at a noise level of 56 dB, which is relatively quiet and suitable for nighttime use.

The air conditioner features 2 cooling modes and 2 fan speeds, allowing for flexible temperature control. The inclusion of a removable, washable filter makes maintenance straightforward and ensures the unit operates efficiently over time. The AC comes with a 1-year replacement warranty, adding a layer of assurance for potential buyers.

Its affordability, ease of installation, and adequate cooling performance make it a practical option for those in need of a budget-friendly window air conditioner.

Rating
9.8
Cooling Capacity (BTUs)
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Noise Level

Most important from
8127 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTUs)
This small and powerful unit cools a room with high ceilings effectively, even on the low cool setting.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Running this unit 24/7 has had barely any noticeable impact on the electric bill.
Noise Level
A bit loud and clunky looking, but an excellent choice for those on a budget.
Size and Installation
The AC blends in with the window due to its compact size, avoiding the tacky look of older, bulkier units.

Buying Guide for the Best Cheap Window Ac Unit

When choosing a window air conditioning unit, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs. A window AC unit can be a great way to cool a room without the expense and hassle of installing central air conditioning. By understanding the key specs, you can make an informed decision that balances cooling power, energy efficiency, and noise levels with your specific requirements.
Cooling Capacity (BTUs)Cooling capacity, measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs), indicates how much heat the unit can remove from a room per hour. This is crucial because it determines how effectively the unit can cool your space. Units with lower BTUs (5,000-8,000) are suitable for small rooms up to 350 square feet, while medium-sized rooms (350-550 square feet) may require 8,000-12,000 BTUs. Larger rooms (550-1,000 square feet) will need units with 12,000-18,000 BTUs. To pick the right one, match the BTU rating to the size of the room you want to cool. If the unit is too powerful, it will cycle on and off too frequently, leading to inefficiency and higher energy costs. If it's too weak, it won't cool the room effectively.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)The Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) measures how efficiently the air conditioner uses energy to cool a room. A higher EER means better energy efficiency, which can lead to lower electricity bills. EER values typically range from 8 to 12. For a more energy-efficient unit, look for an EER of 10 or higher. If you plan to use the AC unit frequently, investing in a higher EER can save you money in the long run. Consider your usage patterns and energy costs when choosing the EER rating.
Noise LevelNoise level is an important factor, especially if the unit will be installed in a bedroom or living area where quiet is essential. Noise levels are measured in decibels (dB). Units with noise levels below 50 dB are considered quiet, while those above 60 dB can be quite loud. If you are sensitive to noise or plan to use the unit in a quiet environment, look for models with lower dB ratings. For less critical areas, a higher noise level might be acceptable.
Size and InstallationThe physical size of the unit and the ease of installation are also important considerations. Ensure that the unit will fit in your window and that you have the necessary tools and skills for installation. Some units are designed for easy installation with minimal tools, while others may require more effort. Measure your window dimensions and compare them with the unit's specifications to ensure a proper fit. If you are not comfortable with DIY installation, consider hiring a professional.
Additional FeaturesAdditional features can enhance the functionality and convenience of your window AC unit. Common features include remote controls, programmable timers, sleep modes, and energy-saving settings. These features can make the unit more user-friendly and efficient. Think about which features are important to you and how they will impact your daily use. For example, a programmable timer can help you save energy by allowing the unit to turn on and off at specific times, while a remote control adds convenience.

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