10 Best Portable Air Con 2025 in the United States

The BLACK+DECKER Portable Air Conditioner, with its 12,000 BTU (ASHRAE) and 8,000 BTU (DOE), is well-suited for cooling rooms up to 550 sq. ft., making it a good choice for medium-sized rooms. One of its standout features includes the 'Follow Me' remote control, which acts as a thermostat for precise temperature control, allowing users to maintain comfort conveniently.

The unit's mobility is a plus, with casters and side handles making it easy to move from one room to another without hassle. The included window kit simplifies installation, ensuring users can get the AC up and running quickly. Additionally, it serves as a three-in-one unit, functioning as an air conditioner, dehumidifier, and fan, adding versatility to its use. However, its Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) of 5.8 suggests it may not be the most energy-efficient option available.

Noise levels at 52 dB are reasonable but may still be noticeable, particularly during nighttime use. Its relatively compact size (13.8 x 17.1 x 28.1 inches) is advantageous for portability, although its weight of 56.8 pounds might make it slightly challenging to move for some users. The auto water evaporation feature reduces maintenance efforts, which is a bonus. Potential buyers should weigh its benefits against its energy efficiency and noise level to determine if it suits their specific needs.

The SereneLife Small Air Conditioner Portable 10,000 BTU is a solid choice for cooling rooms up to 450 sq ft. Its cooling power is quite effective, making it ideal for medium-sized spaces. One of its strengths is the 3-in-1 functionality, combining cooling, dehumidifying, and fan modes, which adds versatility to its use. The dehumidifier is particularly beneficial in humid climates, helping to maintain a comfortable environment.

The unit includes a remote control, allowing you to adjust settings conveniently, and it also has a programmable timer for added convenience. The noise level of 52 dB is relatively moderate, meaning it won’t be too disruptive but isn’t whisper-quiet either. Portability is a highlight with smooth wheels and side handles, making it easy to move around despite its 55.1-pound weight. Maintenance is simplified with a removable and washable double-layer filter, which helps to keep dust at bay.

The product does require ventilation through a window exhaust kit, which is included, but this can limit placement options in certain rooms. Energy efficiency is decent with a SEER of 10.5, though it's not the highest in the market. This portable air conditioner is a reliable and versatile option, especially for those needing an all-in-one cooling and dehumidifying solution.

The Whynter ARC-14SH is a strong choice if you need a portable air conditioner that can cool rooms up to 500 square feet. Its 14,000 BTU cooling power is suitable for medium to large spaces, and the included heater adds versatility for year-round use. At 51 dB on low speed, it’s relatively quiet, making it a good option for bedrooms or living areas without being too distracting.

While it doesn’t have an Energy Star rating, its SEER of 7.6 means it’s moderately efficient but not the most energy-saving model on the market. The dual-hose design improves ventilation and cooling performance, and the patented auto-drain feature helps manage moisture with a strong 71 pints per day dehumidification capacity, which is helpful in humid environments. The unit offers four modes—cool, heat, fan, and dehumidify—with adjustable thermostat control for comfort and flexibility.

Though it’s fairly large and weighs 85 pounds, it still includes a window installation kit and a remote, making it convenient to set up and operate. Maintenance is straightforward with washable and carbon filters. On the downside, it’s not the quietest model available, and at 1300 watts, it uses a fair amount of power, which may impact electricity bills. Also, its size might be bulky for some users looking for a more compact option. If you want a reliable, multi-functional portable air conditioner with strong cooling and dehumidifying features for medium to large rooms, the Whynter ARC-14SH is worth considering.