10 Best Cheap Window Ac Unit 2026 in the United States

The Midea 12,000 BTU U-Shaped Smart Inverter window air conditioner is a strong choice if you want to cool a medium-sized room (up to about 550 sq ft) efficiently and quietly. Its cooling power is solid for this size, making it suitable for living rooms or bedrooms. One of its standout features is the ultra-quiet operation at just 32 decibels, which means it won’t disturb your peace while running. Thanks to its inverter technology, it uses about 35% less energy than many traditional window ACs and has earned an ENERGY STAR certification, helping keep your electricity bills lower.

The unique U-shaped design allows you to open your window even with the unit installed, letting fresh air in and preserving your view—a clever touch not common in cheap window ACs. Installation is straightforward with the provided bracket, but it fits single or double-hung windows within specific size limits (22"-36" wide, minimum 13.75" height), so double-check your window measurements before buying. Its smart features, like Wi-Fi control via an app and compatibility with Alexa and Google Assistant, add convenience for those comfortable with technology.

If you’re not tech-savvy, the smart controls might take some getting used to, and while the unit is quiet, some might find 12,000 BTU power more than needed for smaller spaces. It uses R32 refrigerant, which is more eco-friendly. This AC unit is ideal for those seeking energy savings, quiet operation, and modern features in a budget-friendly package, especially for medium-sized rooms and users who appreciate smart home integration.

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 LG 12,000 BTU Window Air Conditioner is a solid choice for those seeking an affordable and efficient cooling solution for rooms up to 550 square feet. It's particularly well-suited for bedrooms, living rooms, and medium-sized apartments. One of its standout features is the low noise performance, operating at just 52 dB in low mode, making it a good option for light sleepers or anyone needing a quieter environment.

The unit also offers flexibility with three cooling and fan speeds, as well as an Auto Cool setting, allowing users to customize their comfort level effortlessly. The digital control panel and included remote control add to its ease of use, while the 4-way air deflection ensures optimal air distribution throughout the room. Convenience is further enhanced by features like the filter light reminder, a washable filter, and a complete window installation kit.

The 24-hour timer is a handy addition for those looking to save on energy costs by scheduling the unit to turn on and off automatically. However, there are some drawbacks. Despite its cooling efficiency, the unit lacks an Energy Star rating, which may be a consideration for those particularly focused on energy conservation. Additionally, while it is efficient for its class, the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) of 13 is decent but not the highest available, meaning there are more energy-efficient models on the market.