9 Best Portable Air Cooling Units 2025 in the United States

The BLACK+DECKER Smart Portable Air Conditioner with Heat offers a robust cooling capacity of 12,000 BTU (ASHRAE) or 8,000 BTU (DOE), suitable for rooms up to 550 sq. ft. This unit not only cools but also provides 9,000 BTU heating, making it a versatile option for year-round use. The device operates at a noise level of 52 dB, which is relatively quiet, ensuring minimal disturbance. Its Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) of 5.8 is on the lower side, indicating it may consume more electricity compared to some competitors.

The unit is quite portable, with dimensions of 14.06 x 16.5 x 27.09 inches and weighing 57.6 pounds, featuring wheels for easy mobility. The water tank capacity is 0.8 liters, which may require frequent emptying in humid conditions. Additional features include a smart connectivity option allowing control via a mobile app or voice commands through Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant, and a 'Follow Me' remote that acts as a thermostat for precise temperature control.

The package includes an easy-to-install window kit, making the setup straightforward. Though it lacks Energy Star certification, this unit is ideal for users looking for a multi-functional, portable air cooling solution with smart features, though those seeking higher energy efficiency might look elsewhere.

The Whynter Inverter Portable Air Conditioner boasts a robust 14,000 BTU cooling capacity, making it suitable for large rooms up to 600 square feet. Its dual-hose design enhances efficiency and prevents heat leakage, while the SEER of 12.3 indicates good energy efficiency, although it does not have an Energy Star rating. The unit operates quietly at 42.5 dB, making it one of the quieter options on the market, which is ideal for maintaining a peaceful environment.

Portability is a key feature, with its compact dimensions and included window installation kit facilitating ease of movement and setup. Additional features like smart Wi-Fi control via the NetHome Plus app, and compatibility with Alexa and Google Home, add convenience. The built-in dehumidifier can handle up to 87 pints per day, which is beneficial for humid climates.

However, the energy consumption might be a concern for energy-conscious users, given its maximum power consumption of 1293W / 11.9A. This unit is best suited for those seeking a powerful, efficient, and quiet portable AC with modern smart features, especially in larger spaces.

The Midea MAP12S1TBL is a portable air conditioner designed to cool spaces up to 450 square feet, making it suitable for medium-sized rooms. Its 12,000 BTU cooling capacity paired with an innovative dual-hose system helps boost cooling speed and efficiency by taking in and exhausting air simultaneously, which leads to better indoor air circulation and less hot air leakage. This unit uses inverter technology, allowing it to consume about 40% less energy compared to traditional portable ACs, which is a solid plus if you want to save on electricity bills.

It operates quietly at around 42 decibels, about as soft as a library, so it won’t disturb your peace while running. The Midea model also stands out with smart features: it connects via Wi-Fi and works with Alexa and Google Assistant, giving you convenient remote or voice control. It includes a dust filter to help keep the air clean.

The unit is fairly heavy at nearly 73 pounds and has a size that might be bulky for some rooms, which could affect how easy it is to move around despite being labeled portable. If you’re looking for a smart, relatively quiet, and efficient portable cooling solution for a medium room and don’t mind the size, this Midea model is a strong contender.