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10 Best Outdoor Air Conditioners 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

BLACK+DECKER Smart Portable Air Conditioner with Heat, 14,000 BTU (10,200 BTU SACC) Cooling, 12,000 BTU Heating for Rooms up to 700 Sq. Ft., Follow Me Remote, BPACT14HWT, White

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,173
Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Noise Level
Durability and Weather Resistance

Most important from
43955 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTU)
The B&D unit EASILY cools the room in a few minutes and keeps it cool all day.
Noise Level
Overall the B&D unit is much quieter than previous units I've owned.
Durability and Weather Resistance
I tend to use a portable AC every day, 14-16hrs, from about April through to about October.. and I got this B&D unit in Aug of this year. I would expect it to last at least 5 years, if not much longer.

The BLACK+DECKER 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner and Heater is a versatile unit designed for spaces up to 700 square feet. It offers a 4-in-1 functionality, including air conditioning, heating, dehumidifying, and fan modes. This makes it suitable for year-round use. The cooling capacity is robust, though the unit's energy efficiency ratio (EER) is moderate at 6.2, which means it may consume more power compared to some other models on the market. However, it does come with a 24-hour timer and auto water evaporation to help manage energy use better.

The noise level of 54 dB is relatively quiet, making it a good fit for bedrooms and living areas where noise could be a concern. Portability is a strong point with this model; it has casters and side handles for easy movement between rooms. While the unit is not explicitly designed for outdoor use and lacks dedicated weather-resistant features, its portability allows it to be used in various indoor settings temporarily.

Installation is user-friendly with an included window kit, and maintenance is made easier with a slide-out washable filter. The product has a decent durability with a 1-year warranty. It is important to note that it is not Energy Star rated, which could be a consideration for those prioritizing energy efficiency. This BLACK+DECKER model is a reliable, multi-functional option for indoor cooling and heating needs, with good portability and user-friendly features, though it may not be the most energy-efficient choice available.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,173
Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Noise Level
Durability and Weather Resistance

Most important from
43955 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTU)
The B&D unit EASILY cools the room in a few minutes and keeps it cool all day.
Noise Level
Overall the B&D unit is much quieter than previous units I've owned.
Durability and Weather Resistance
I tend to use a portable AC every day, 14-16hrs, from about April through to about October.. and I got this B&D unit in Aug of this year. I would expect it to last at least 5 years, if not much longer.
#2

BLACK+DECKER Portable Air Conditioner, 8,000 BTU (3,950 BTU SACC) for Rooms up to 400 Sq. Ft., Portable AC with Follow Me Remote Control and Window Kit, BPACT08WT, White

Rating
9.4
Cooling Capacity (BTU
Noise Level
Installation and Maintenance

Most important from
43955 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTU
The BLACK+DECKER unit easily cools the room in a few minutes and keeps it cool all day, cycling on and off efficiently.
Noise Level
Quieter than previous units, allowing for phone conversations just five feet away without needing to turn off the AC.
Installation and Maintenance
The hose attachment is vastly superior, locking in place securely and eliminating issues with the hose falling off.

The BLACK+DECKER 8,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner is designed for rooms up to 350 sq. ft., making it suitable for medium-sized spaces. Its cooling capacity of 8,000 BTU ensures efficient cooling, though it may not be the best fit for larger areas. The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) of 5.4 is on the lower side, suggesting it may consume more electricity compared to more energy-efficient models. This is something to consider if energy consumption is a priority for you.

The noise level is 54 dB, which is relatively quiet, allowing for comfortable usage without much disturbance, especially at night. Portability is a strong point, with casters and side handles that make moving the unit around easy. However, at 52.9 pounds, it might be a bit heavy for some users. Durability and weather resistance are decent, but as this is primarily an indoor unit, it may not be ideal for continuous outdoor exposure.

The included installation kit simplifies setup, and the slide-out washable filter and auto water evaporation feature ease maintenance. The 3-in-1 functionality as an air conditioner, dehumidifier, and fan adds to its versatility. It is a solid choice for those needing a portable, relatively quiet air conditioning solution for medium-sized rooms, but consider the energy efficiency and weight before purchasing.

Rating
9.4
Cooling Capacity (BTU
Noise Level
Installation and Maintenance

Most important from
43955 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTU
The BLACK+DECKER unit easily cools the room in a few minutes and keeps it cool all day, cycling on and off efficiently.
Noise Level
Quieter than previous units, allowing for phone conversations just five feet away without needing to turn off the AC.
Installation and Maintenance
The hose attachment is vastly superior, locking in place securely and eliminating issues with the hose falling off.
#3

Dreo Portable Air Conditioners, 8000 BTU (DOE) AC Unit for Bedroom with Drainage-free Cooling, 3-in-1 with Fan & Dehumidifier, Touch/APP/Voice/Remote, 24h Timer, Smart Floor AC for Room Indoors

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

Most important from
1029 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTU)
It cools efficiently and quickly, making even larger rooms comfortably cold, with impressive air output and wide reach.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Despite being a single-hose unit, it performs phenomenally and maintains a stable room temperature without frequent draining.
Noise Level
The Dreo Portable AC is extremely quiet, even quieter than many other portable units and comparable to window units.
Durability and Weather Resistance
Durability and reliability are evident, as the unit stays connected to WiFi and handles smart home commands flawlessly.

The Dreo Portable Air Conditioner offers a powerful cooling capacity of 14,000 BTU, making it suitable for cooling rooms up to 300 square feet. One of its standout features is the quiet operation, producing only 46dB of noise, which is ideal for bedrooms and offices. It also offers a smart control system, allowing you to manage the unit via app, voice commands, or a remote control, providing flexibility and convenience in operation.

The unit's 3-in-1 functionality includes cooling, dehumidifying, and fan modes, giving you versatile options to maintain indoor comfort. The installation is user-friendly with a universal window kit that fits various window types and sizes. Additionally, the Dreo AC is designed to be drainage-free under certain humidity levels, reducing maintenance efforts.

However, as a portable unit, it may not be as durable or weather-resistant as fixed outdoor air conditioners, limiting its outdoor use. Also, while it is portable with handles and castors, its weight and size (14.37”D x 17.32”W x 28.13”H) may make it cumbersome to move frequently. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Dreo Portable Air Conditioner is a robust option for indoor cooling with excellent features and user-friendly controls.

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

Most important from
1029 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTU)
It cools efficiently and quickly, making even larger rooms comfortably cold, with impressive air output and wide reach.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Despite being a single-hose unit, it performs phenomenally and maintains a stable room temperature without frequent draining.
Noise Level
The Dreo Portable AC is extremely quiet, even quieter than many other portable units and comparable to window units.
Durability and Weather Resistance
Durability and reliability are evident, as the unit stays connected to WiFi and handles smart home commands flawlessly.

Buying Guide for the Best Outdoor Air Conditioners

Choosing the right outdoor air conditioner can significantly enhance your comfort during hot weather. It's important to consider various factors to ensure you select a model that meets your needs. Here are some key specifications to look at when making your decision.
Cooling Capacity (BTU)Cooling capacity, measured in British Thermal Units (BTU), indicates how much heat the air conditioner can remove from the air per hour. This is crucial because it determines the effectiveness of the unit in cooling your space. Generally, higher BTU ratings are suitable for larger areas. For small patios or balconies, a lower BTU rating (5,000-10,000 BTU) might be sufficient, while larger outdoor spaces may require a higher BTU rating (12,000-18,000 BTU). Consider the size of the area you need to cool to choose the appropriate BTU rating.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)The Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) measures the efficiency of the air conditioner. It is calculated by dividing the BTU rating by the power consumption in watts. A higher EER indicates a more efficient unit, which can save you money on energy bills. Look for units with an EER of 10 or higher for better efficiency. If you plan to use the air conditioner frequently, opting for a higher EER can be beneficial in the long run.
Noise LevelNoise level is an important consideration, especially for outdoor air conditioners, as you want to maintain a peaceful environment. Noise levels are measured in decibels (dB). Units with lower dB ratings are quieter. For a comfortable outdoor experience, look for air conditioners with noise levels below 60 dB. If you are sensitive to noise or plan to use the unit in a quiet neighborhood, prioritize models with lower noise levels.
PortabilityPortability refers to how easily you can move the air conditioner around. Portable units are beneficial if you need to cool different areas at different times or if you plan to store the unit during cooler months. Look for features like wheels and handles that make transportation easier. If you need flexibility in cooling various outdoor spaces, a portable air conditioner is a good choice.
DurabilityDurability is essential for outdoor air conditioners as they are exposed to various weather conditions. Look for units made with weather-resistant materials and features like rust-proof coatings. A durable air conditioner will last longer and require less maintenance. If you live in an area with harsh weather conditions, prioritize models with high durability.
Installation and MaintenanceConsider the ease of installation and maintenance when choosing an outdoor air conditioner. Some units require professional installation, while others can be set up easily by the user. Maintenance involves cleaning filters and checking for any issues regularly. Choose a model that offers straightforward installation and easy maintenance to ensure hassle-free operation.

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