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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
9.9
Chosen by1,457
Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Noise Level
Durability and Weather Resistance

Most important from
43703 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
9.9
Chosen by1,457
Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Noise Level
Durability and Weather Resistance

Most important from
43703 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

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
9.8
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Noise Level
Durability and Weather Resistance

Most important from
17481 reviews

Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Energy consumption is minimal, even at maximum cooling and heating settings.
Noise Level
The unit is impressively quiet, you barely know it is on.
Durability and Weather Resistance
It works well even during extreme weather conditions, though the heating function has limitations below 41°F.
Installation and Maintenance
Installation is easy, fitting perfectly in standard windows without needing additional modifications.

The Midea MAW06R1CWT EasyCool Window Air Conditioner is a versatile unit designed for spaces up to 250 sq. ft. It offers a strong cooling capacity of 6,000 BTU, which is suitable for small to medium-sized rooms. Its energy efficiency ratio (EER) is quite impressive at 12.1, helping to save on electricity bills. The unit also features multiple modes, including cooling, fan, and dehumidifier, which add to its functionality and comfort.

Despite its power, it operates quietly at 52 dB, making it a good option for bedrooms or offices where noise sensitivity is a concern. The easy-to-use LED display and remote control enhance user convenience, allowing adjustments from across the room. Installation is straightforward with all necessary mounting accessories included, though a screwdriver is required. The unit is designed to fit most standard window frames, which adds to its convenience.

One potential drawback is that it's not Energy Star certified, which may be a consideration for those looking for top-tier energy efficiency. Additionally, it weighs 38.2 pounds, which might be slightly cumbersome during installation, especially for one person. The unit's durability and weather resistance are bolstered by its copper core material and general build quality, though it’s primarily designed for indoor use. This air conditioner comes with a reusable filter, making maintenance simple and cost-effective. Midea’s warranty of one year on parts and labor provides some peace of mind. In summary, the Midea MAW06R1CWT is a reliable and user-friendly window air conditioner with a good balance of cooling power, energy efficiency, and ease of use, though it lacks the Energy Star certification and might be slightly heavy for some users during installation.

Rating
9.8
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Noise Level
Durability and Weather Resistance

Most important from
17481 reviews

Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Energy consumption is minimal, even at maximum cooling and heating settings.
Noise Level
The unit is impressively quiet, you barely know it is on.
Durability and Weather Resistance
It works well even during extreme weather conditions, though the heating function has limitations below 41°F.
Installation and Maintenance
Installation is easy, fitting perfectly in standard windows without needing additional modifications.
#3

Midea 5,000 BTU EasyCool Small Window Air Conditioner - Cool up to 150 Sq. Ft. with Easy-to-Use Mechanical Controls and Reusable Filter, Perfect for Small Bedroom, Living Room, Home Office

Rating
9.6
Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Noise Level

Most important from
17481 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Despite claims, it is not quieter than an average 5,000 BTU air conditioner, though it still performs well at cooling small spaces.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Energy consumption is impressively low, drawing no more than 400 watts on both cooling and heating settings.
Noise Level
Extremely quiet operation makes it barely noticeable when running.
Durability
Durable performance with minimal maintenance required, though regular cleaning of the air filter and condenser is recommended.
Installation and Maintenance
Simple installation process, fitting well even in smaller windows without the need for additional modifications.

The Midea 5,000 BTU EasyCool Small Window Air Conditioner is an excellent choice for cooling smaller spaces up to 150 square feet, such as bedrooms, small living rooms, or home offices. It offers several strengths, including a robust cooling capacity of 5,000 BTU, making it efficient for its size. This unit also boasts a good Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) of 11.0, which helps keep energy costs low, making it a cost-effective option year-round. Additionally, it operates at a relatively quiet 57 dB, quieter than many household refrigerators, ensuring a peaceful environment.

The mechanical controls are straightforward and user-friendly, allowing you to easily set the temperature, time, and mode to your preference. Its reusable air filter is another practical feature, contributing to ease of maintenance and long-term cost savings. Installation is relatively easy, with all necessary mounting accessories included, although a screwdriver and potentially drilling pilot holes might be required. The unit's durability is supported by a copper core and a one-year parts and labor warranty, providing some peace of mind.

However, the device weighs 35.3 pounds, which might pose a challenge for some users when installing or moving it. While it’s effective for small spaces, its cooling capacity may be insufficient for larger rooms. Additionally, the window unit form factor might not be suitable for all window types or preferred aesthetics. The Midea 5,000 BTU EasyCool Small Window Air Conditioner is a solid, energy-efficient solution for small spaces that is easy to use and relatively quiet.

Rating
9.6
Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Noise Level

Most important from
17481 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Despite claims, it is not quieter than an average 5,000 BTU air conditioner, though it still performs well at cooling small spaces.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Energy consumption is impressively low, drawing no more than 400 watts on both cooling and heating settings.
Noise Level
Extremely quiet operation makes it barely noticeable when running.
Durability
Durable performance with minimal maintenance required, though regular cleaning of the air filter and condenser is recommended.
Installation and Maintenance
Simple installation process, fitting well even in smaller windows without the need for additional modifications.

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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