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10 Best Portable Ac 2026 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Amazon Basics 4-In-1 Portable Air Conditioner, 13500 BTU (ASHRAE), Cools Up to 550 Sqf, Portable AC with Cool/Heat/Dry (Dehumidifier)/Fan-Only Functions, Auto Mode, Sleep Mode, Timer, White

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,154
Noise Level
Programmable Timer and Remote Control
Ventilation and Exhaust

Most important from
702 reviews

Noise Level
The noise level is akin to a comforting white noise machine, adding to the overall comfort.
Programmable Timer and Remote Control
The remote acts as a portable room thermometer, ensuring precise temperature control.
Ventilation and Exhaust
Setup is incredibly easy, with the included exhaust tube fitting perfectly, but it's wise to have a longer one on hand.

The Amazon Basics 4-In-1 Portable AC is a versatile unit that combines cooling, heating, dehumidifying, and fan functions, making it suitable for year-round use. With a cooling capacity of 13,000 BTU (ASHRAE) and 10,000 BTU (SACC), it effectively covers spaces up to 550 square feet, making it ideal for small to medium-sized rooms like bedrooms or home offices. It features an energy-saving Sleep mode and three fan speeds, which allow for a personalized comfort experience. The unit is designed with convenience in mind, offering a digital display, an intuitive interface, and a programmable timer, plus an advanced remote control with a 'FOLLOW ME' function for precise temperature adjustments.

Portability is a significant advantage, as the unit comes with built-in wheels and ergonomic handles, allowing for easy movement between rooms. The easy installation with an included window kit adds to its user-friendly design, making it adaptable to various window types. However, at 75.2 pounds, some users may find it a bit heavy to move frequently.

The dehumidification function is a plus for humid climates, and the auto-swing louvers ensure even air distribution, enhancing the cooling experience. This model is a practical choice for those looking for a multi-functional and portable cooling solution with some heating capacity, suitable for a variety of living spaces.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,154
Noise Level
Programmable Timer and Remote Control
Ventilation and Exhaust

Most important from
702 reviews

Noise Level
The noise level is akin to a comforting white noise machine, adding to the overall comfort.
Programmable Timer and Remote Control
The remote acts as a portable room thermometer, ensuring precise temperature control.
Ventilation and Exhaust
Setup is incredibly easy, with the included exhaust tube fitting perfectly, but it's wise to have a longer one on hand.
#2

DREO Portable Air Conditioners, 8000 BTU ASHRAE (5000 BTU DOE) Smart AC Unit for Bedroom with Drainage-free Cooling, 45dB Quiet, APP/Voice/Remote, Portable AC for Room Indoors, AC318S

Rating
8.2
Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Noise Level

Most important from
655 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Cools like a champ and is easy to install.
Noise Level
Not as quiet as expected but not very loud either.

The Dreo Portable Air Conditioner offers a cooling capacity of 8,000 BTU (ASHRAE) and 5,000 BTU (SACC), making it well-suited for small rooms up to 150 square feet. One of its standout features is the drainage-free cooling system, which eliminates the need for manual emptying in humid conditions. The unit operates at a quiet 45 dB, ideal for use in bedrooms or workspaces without disrupting sleep or concentration. It also includes smart climate control, allowing users to adjust settings via voice commands through Siri, Amazon Alexa, and Google Home, or through the Dreo app for customized cooling experiences.

The energy efficiency ratio (SEER) is a moderate 6.1, which may not be the highest in its class but should sufficiently balance performance and energy consumption for its size. Additionally, the unit comes with caster wheels for easy movement and installation, along with a modular window kit and exhaust hose for versatile setup options. The inclusion of a 24-hour programmable timer and remote control adds convenience for users to set cooling schedules.

A minor drawback is its weight of 55 pounds, which might be slightly cumbersome for some when moving between rooms. Also, while its smart features are advanced, users who are not tech-savvy might find the initial setup process somewhat complex. Nonetheless, the robust customer service and one-year warranty ensure support for any issues. The Dreo Portable Air Conditioner is a commendable choice for anyone in need of a quiet, efficient, and user-friendly cooling solution for smaller spaces.

Rating
8.2
Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Noise Level

Most important from
655 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Cools like a champ and is easy to install.
Noise Level
Not as quiet as expected but not very loud either.
#3

BLACK+DECKER Portable Air Conditioner, 10,000 BTU (6,300 BTU SACC) for Rooms up to 450 Sq. Ft., Portable AC with Follow Me Remote Control and Window Kit, BPACT10WT, White

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

Most important from
47904 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Easily cools the room in a few minutes and keeps it cool all day.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
More efficient than previous machines used for cooling in summer and heating in winter.
Noise Level
Much quieter than previous units owned; you can still talk on the phone 5 feet away without shutting the unit off.
Ventilation and Exhaust
The hose attachment on the back of the unit is far superior, locking in place and staying put without falling off.

The BLACK+DECKER Portable Air Conditioner, with a cooling capacity of 10,000 BTU ASHRAE (6,300 BTU DOE), is well-suited for cooling rooms up to 450 sq. ft. This makes it ideal for bedrooms, small living rooms, or home offices. One of its standout features is the 'Follow Me' remote control, which allows you to maintain a precise temperature by acting as a thermostat. This is particularly useful for ensuring comfort throughout the room.

The unit's noise level is 52 dB, which is relatively quiet and should not disrupt sleep or daily activities significantly. The 3-in-1 functionality (air conditioner, dehumidifier, and fan) adds versatility, allowing you to use it in different modes based on your needs. The dehumidification function can be particularly beneficial in humid climates. Portability is a strong point, as the unit includes casters and side handles, making it easy to move from room to room.

The included window kit simplifies installation, although some users might find the need for proper ventilation and exhaust a bit cumbersome initially. The unit's energy efficiency ratio (EER) of 6.7 is on the lower side, meaning it might not be the most energy-efficient model on the market. This could result in higher electricity bills over prolonged use. The BLACK+DECKER Portable Air Conditioner offers solid cooling performance and user-friendly features for medium-sized rooms, though its energy efficiency could be improved.

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

Most important from
47904 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Easily cools the room in a few minutes and keeps it cool all day.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
More efficient than previous machines used for cooling in summer and heating in winter.
Noise Level
Much quieter than previous units owned; you can still talk on the phone 5 feet away without shutting the unit off.
Ventilation and Exhaust
The hose attachment on the back of the unit is far superior, locking in place and staying put without falling off.

Buying Guide for the Best Portable Ac

Choosing the right portable air conditioner (AC) can make a significant difference in your comfort during hot weather. Portable ACs are convenient because they can be moved from room to room, but selecting the right one involves understanding several key specifications. By knowing what to look for, you can ensure that you get a unit that meets your cooling needs efficiently and effectively.
Cooling Capacity (BTU)Cooling capacity, measured in British Thermal Units (BTU), indicates how much heat a portable AC can remove from a room per hour. This is crucial because it determines the size of the room the unit can effectively cool. Units with lower BTUs (5,000-8,000) are suitable for small rooms up to 300 square feet, medium BTUs (8,000-12,000) are ideal for rooms between 300-500 square feet, and higher BTUs (12,000-14,000) are best for larger rooms up to 700 square feet. To pick the right one, consider the size of the room you need to cool and choose a unit with a BTU rating that matches or slightly exceeds that space.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)The Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) measures the efficiency of the portable AC by comparing the cooling capacity (BTU) to the power consumption (watts). A higher EER means the unit is more energy-efficient, which can save you money on electricity bills. EER values typically range from 8 to 12. For better energy savings, look for units with an EER of 10 or higher. If you plan to use the AC frequently, investing in a higher EER unit can be more cost-effective in the long run.
Noise LevelNoise level, measured in decibels (dB), indicates how loud the portable AC will be during operation. This is important if you plan to use the unit in a bedroom, office, or any other space where quiet is essential. Noise levels can range from 50 dB (quiet) to 70 dB (louder). For a peaceful environment, look for units with noise levels below 55 dB. If noise is not a major concern, you can opt for units with higher noise levels.
Portability FeaturesPortability features include the weight of the unit, the presence of caster wheels, and handles for easy movement. These features are important if you need to move the AC between rooms frequently. Lighter units (under 50 pounds) with sturdy wheels and handles are easier to transport. If you plan to keep the unit in one place most of the time, portability features may be less critical.
Dehumidification FunctionMany portable ACs also function as dehumidifiers, removing excess moisture from the air. This is beneficial in humid climates as it can make the room feel cooler and more comfortable. Dehumidification capacity is measured in pints per day. Units with higher dehumidification capacities (up to 70 pints per day) are better for very humid environments. If you live in a dry area, this feature may be less important.
Programmable Timer and Remote ControlA programmable timer allows you to set the AC to turn on or off at specific times, which can help save energy and ensure the room is cool when you need it. A remote control adds convenience, allowing you to adjust settings from a distance. These features are particularly useful if you want to manage the AC's operation without having to get up frequently. If convenience and energy savings are priorities, look for units with these features.
Ventilation and ExhaustPortable ACs require proper ventilation to expel hot air outside. This is typically done through a window exhaust kit. The ease of installation and the length of the exhaust hose are important considerations. Units with longer hoses and easy-to-install kits offer more flexibility in placement. If you have limited window space or need to move the unit often, ensure the exhaust system is user-friendly and adaptable to your setup.

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