10 Best Efficient Window Air Conditioner 2026 in the United States

The Frigidaire 12,000 BTU window air conditioner is designed to cool spaces up to 550 square feet, making it a solid choice for medium-sized rooms like living rooms or large bedrooms. Its cooling capacity is suitable for these areas, offering customizable temperature settings and 6-way directional airflow for good coverage. The unit runs at about 57 dB, which is fairly quiet for a window AC, so it won’t be too disruptive in most home environments.

In terms of energy efficiency, the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) is 10.9, which is decent but it isn’t Energy Star rated, so there might be more efficient options if you prioritize lower energy bills. However, features like Eco Mode and Sleep Mode help save energy by adjusting cooling based on room use and nighttime needs. Installation is straightforward since it comes with a window kit, and its size is typical for this power level, though it weighs around 63.5 pounds, which might require two people to install safely.

Additional conveniences include a remote control for easy adjustments, a 24-hour timer, and a filter light reminder to keep maintenance hassle-free. Dry Mode is a nice bonus for reducing humidity, improving comfort beyond just cooling. The 1-year warranty is standard but worth noting for buyers seeking peace of mind. This model effectively balances cooling power with moderate noise and several energy-saving features, making it a reliable, user-friendly option. If highest energy efficiency is your priority, there are models with better ratings available.

The Amazon Basics 5000-BTU Window Air Conditioner is designed for small rooms up to 150 square feet, making it a good fit for bedrooms, home offices, or other small spaces. With 5000 BTU cooling power, it provides enough cooling for these areas without consuming excessive energy, supported by a decent energy efficiency rating (SEER of 14). It offers flexible comfort options including 7 temperature settings, 2 fan speeds, and adjustable air direction, which helps tailor the airflow to your preference. The unit features a washable filter that is easy to clean and helps reduce dust and allergens, which is a useful bonus for maintaining air quality.

Installation is straightforward for standard windows between 23 and 36 inches wide with a basic mounting kit included, though you’ll need a screwdriver as it’s not supplied. Noise-wise, it operates quietly at around 56 dB, suitable for use in bedrooms or workspaces where low noise is appreciated. The cooling capacity limits it to smaller rooms only, so it wouldn't be ideal if you need to cool larger spaces. Also, it lacks advanced features like a remote control or smart connectivity, which some may expect in modern units.

Its size is compact, making it less intrusive once installed, and the simple mechanical controls keep operation easy for anyone. This unit is a practical and affordable choice if you need efficient cooling in a small room and prefer a basic, user-friendly window AC without extra bells and whistles.

The Midea MAW08V1QWT U-Shaped window air conditioner is designed to efficiently cool rooms up to about 350 square feet with its 8,000 BTU cooling capacity. Its standout feature is the unique U-shaped design that allows your window to remain partially open for fresh air and a better outside view while also blocking noise from outside. This helps keep operation very quiet at just 32 decibels, significantly lower than many traditional window AC units, making it ideal for bedrooms or offices where minimal sound is important.

Energy-wise, this model is impressive. Thanks to its DC inverter technology and ENERGY STAR certification, it uses about 35% less energy compared to conventional units, which can save money on electricity bills. Its Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) of 15 and a 5-star BEE rating underline its efficiency credentials. Installation is straightforward with the included quick-snap bracket and sidearms, fitting standard single or double-hung windows between 22 to 36 inches wide. The unit weighs around 55 pounds, so assistance may be helpful during installation. Its compact size makes it suitable for typical window spaces without blocking the entire opening.

Additional features include a built-in dehumidifier, dust filter, fast cooling mode, and smart controls via Wi-Fi and voice assistants (Alexa/Google Assistant), which add convenience and improve air quality. The anti-theft mechanism for locking the window enhances security. While the cooling power is strong for small to medium rooms, it might not be sufficient for larger or very hot spaces. Some users may find the remote control or app setup a bit tricky if they are not comfortable with smart devices. This air conditioner is well suited for those seeking quiet, energy-efficient cooling with smart features and a design that preserves window openness and view in small to mid-sized rooms.