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10 Best Lightest Air Conditioner 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

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
Chosen by1,482
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Noise Level
Installation Type

Most important from
17560 reviews

Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Energy-efficient cooling and heating capabilities make it a worthy investment, offering great value for the price.
Noise Level
Extremely quiet operation makes it barely noticeable when running, perfect for maintaining a peaceful environment.
Installation Type
Straightforward installation process, fitting well in various window sizes without the need for additional modifications.

The Midea MAW08HV1CWT EasyCool Smart Inverter Air Conditioner Window Unit is a versatile option for those seeking year-round comfort in a compact design. At 56 pounds, it offers a balance between portability and functionality, suitable for large rooms up to 350 square feet. The 8,000 BTU cooling capacity ensures effective cooling, while the supplemental heat feature provides warmth during cooler months, making it a multi-season solution.

The unit is energy-efficient with a SEER of 14.5 and Energy Star certification, promising up to 35% in energy savings compared to the standard. Users can control the AC through an LED display, remote control, or via the SmartHome app, with the added convenience of voice control through Alexa and Google Assistant. It operates quietly at 45 dB, which is beneficial for maintaining a peaceful environment.

Installation is straightforward, fitting double-hung windows with specific dimensions. However, its weight might make installation a bit challenging for some users, and the heat pump functionality is limited to outside temperatures above 41°F. The unit comes with additional features like a washable filter, dehumidification, and various modes to optimize comfort.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,482
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Noise Level
Installation Type

Most important from
17560 reviews

Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Energy-efficient cooling and heating capabilities make it a worthy investment, offering great value for the price.
Noise Level
Extremely quiet operation makes it barely noticeable when running, perfect for maintaining a peaceful environment.
Installation Type
Straightforward installation process, fitting well in various window sizes without the need for additional modifications.
#2

BLACK+DECKER Portable Air Conditioner, 9,000 BTU (5,300 BTU SACC) for Rooms up to 400 Sq. Ft., Portable AC with Follow Me Remote Control and Window Kit, BPACT08WT, White

Rating
8.2
Weight
Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)

Most important from
43796 reviews

Weight
Despite being heavier than some models, the caster wheels and handles make it manageable to move between rooms.
Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Easily cools small to medium rooms within minutes and maintains a comfortable temperature without running constantly.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Functions well as a 3-in-1 device, providing cooling, fan, and dehumidifier modes with good efficiency compared to older units.
Noise Level
Operates quietly enough to hold phone and video calls without disruption, with noise comparable to typical computer fans.
Installation Type
Installation is straightforward with the included window kit and exhaust hose, requiring no professional help.
Additional Features
The hose connection is impressively secure and locks in place, eliminating worries about it falling off and reducing heat blowback.

The BLACK+DECKER 8,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner is a solid choice for cooling small to medium rooms up to around 300-350 sq. ft. It offers a respectable cooling capacity of 8,000 BTU, which should be enough for many bedrooms or small living spaces. Weighing about 45.8 pounds, it’s not the lightest model available but still manageable thanks to its caster wheels and side handles for easier movement between rooms.

In terms of energy efficiency, it has a Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) of 5.4, which is average and doesn’t carry an Energy Star rating. This means it might use more electricity than some more efficient models, so keep that in mind if your energy bills are a concern. The noise level is 54 decibels, which is moderate and generally won’t be too disruptive during use, especially while sleeping or working.

Installation is straightforward with the included window kit and exhaust hose, so you won’t need professional help to set it up. The unit also includes handy features such as a remote control, a slide-out washable filter, an auto water evaporation system, and a 24-hour timer. Plus, it functions as a 3-in-1 device — acting as an air conditioner, fan, and dehumidifier — which adds versatility. Although it is heavier than some portable AC models closer to 30 pounds, it still offers user-friendly mobility and decent cooling power for small rooms, while trading off some efficiency and weight compared to lighter or more energy-efficient models.

Rating
8.2
Weight
Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)

Most important from
43796 reviews

Weight
Despite being heavier than some models, the caster wheels and handles make it manageable to move between rooms.
Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Easily cools small to medium rooms within minutes and maintains a comfortable temperature without running constantly.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Functions well as a 3-in-1 device, providing cooling, fan, and dehumidifier modes with good efficiency compared to older units.
Noise Level
Operates quietly enough to hold phone and video calls without disruption, with noise comparable to typical computer fans.
Installation Type
Installation is straightforward with the included window kit and exhaust hose, requiring no professional help.
Additional Features
The hose connection is impressively secure and locks in place, eliminating worries about it falling off and reducing heat blowback.
#3

BLACK+DECKER Portable Air Conditioner, 12,000 BTU (8,000 BTU SACC) for Rooms up to 550 Sq. Ft., Portable AC with Follow Me Remote Control and Window Kit, BPACT12WT, White

Rating
8.2
Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Noise Level

Most important from
43796 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Cools medium-sized rooms quickly and maintains a comfortable temperature by cycling on and off, reducing continuous operation.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Energy costs are expected to be lower than older units due to the unit cycling off when the set temperature is reached.
Noise Level
Operates noticeably quieter than comparable portable units, allowing normal conversation nearby without disruption.
Installation Type
Installation is straightforward with the included window kit, but the exhaust hose’s large diameter and rigidity limit flexible placement and routing options.
Additional Features
The hose connection design is exceptionally secure and locks firmly, eliminating common issues with hoses falling off and causing hot air recirculation.

The BLACK+DECKER Smart Portable Air Conditioner offers a solid cooling capacity of 12,000 BTU (8,000 BTU SACC), suitable for rooms up to about 550 sq. ft., making it a good choice for medium-sized spaces. Weighing around 57 pounds, it's not the lightest portable AC on the market, so if you need something very lightweight, this might feel a bit heavy to move frequently. It runs at a moderate noise level of 52 dB, which is relatively quiet for a portable unit and should be comfortable for bedrooms or living rooms. The energy efficiency ratio (EER) is 5.8, which is average—meaning it won’t be the most energy-saving option but still reasonable for everyday use. Installation is user-friendly with an included window kit, making it easy to set up without professional help.

One of its standout features is smart connectivity, allowing control via a mobile app or voice commands through Alexa or Google Assistant, plus a 'Follow Me' remote that measures the temperature where you are for more precise cooling. It also works as a dehumidifier and fan, adding extra value. It is not Energy Star certified, which could be a downside for those prioritizing energy efficiency. This model is practical for users wanting a versatile, moderately portable AC with smart features, but if weight is your top priority, lighter models might be easier to handle.

Rating
8.2
Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Noise Level

Most important from
43796 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Cools medium-sized rooms quickly and maintains a comfortable temperature by cycling on and off, reducing continuous operation.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Energy costs are expected to be lower than older units due to the unit cycling off when the set temperature is reached.
Noise Level
Operates noticeably quieter than comparable portable units, allowing normal conversation nearby without disruption.
Installation Type
Installation is straightforward with the included window kit, but the exhaust hose’s large diameter and rigidity limit flexible placement and routing options.
Additional Features
The hose connection design is exceptionally secure and locks firmly, eliminating common issues with hoses falling off and causing hot air recirculation.

Buying Guide for the Best Lightest Air Conditioner

Choosing the right air conditioner can make a significant difference in your comfort and energy bills. When looking for the lightest air conditioner, it's important to consider not just the weight, but also other key specifications that will ensure it meets your cooling needs efficiently. Here are some key specs to consider and how to navigate them to find the best fit for you.
WeightWeight is a crucial factor if you need to move the air conditioner frequently or if you have limited support for installation. Lighter units are easier to handle and install, making them ideal for smaller spaces or for those who may need to relocate the unit often. Generally, air conditioners can range from around 40 pounds to over 100 pounds. For portability and ease of installation, aim for a unit on the lighter end of the spectrum, but ensure it still meets your cooling needs.
Cooling Capacity (BTU)BTU (British Thermal Units) measures the cooling power of an air conditioner. This is important because it determines how effectively the unit can cool a given space. Smaller units typically range from 5,000 to 8,000 BTUs and are suitable for rooms up to 350 square feet. Medium units range from 9,000 to 12,000 BTUs and can cool spaces up to 550 square feet. Larger units, over 12,000 BTUs, are for spaces larger than 550 square feet. Choose a BTU rating that matches the size of the room you need to cool to ensure efficiency and comfort.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)The Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) indicates how efficiently an air conditioner uses energy. A higher EER means better energy efficiency, which can lead to lower electricity bills. EER ratings typically range from 8 to 12. For the best energy savings, look for a unit with an EER of 10 or higher. This is especially important if you plan to use the air conditioner frequently or for extended periods.
Noise LevelNoise level is measured in decibels (dB) and is important for maintaining a comfortable environment, especially in bedrooms or offices. Air conditioners can range from 40 dB (quiet) to over 60 dB (loud). If you are sensitive to noise or plan to use the unit in a quiet space, look for models that operate at 50 dB or lower.
Installation TypeAir conditioners come in various installation types, including window units, portable units, and wall-mounted units. Window units are typically lighter and easier to install but require a suitable window. Portable units offer flexibility and can be moved from room to room but may be slightly heavier. Wall-mounted units are more permanent and may require professional installation. Choose the type that best fits your space and installation capabilities.
Additional FeaturesAdditional features such as remote control, programmable timers, and smart connectivity can enhance the convenience and functionality of your air conditioner. These features can make it easier to control the unit and optimize its performance according to your schedule and preferences. Consider which features are important to you and how they can improve your overall experience with the air conditioner.

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