10 Best Quiet Air Conditioners 2026 in the United States

The Dreo Portable Air Conditioner offers a solid blend of efficient cooling and quiet operation, making it a strong candidate for bedrooms or workspaces where low noise is important. With a 10,000 BTU cooling capacity, it can comfortably cool rooms up to around 200 square feet, which suits small to medium-sized bedrooms. Its noise level, at 45 dB, is impressively low for a portable AC, thanks to Dreo’s patented noise isolation system—this means it won’t disturb sleep or concentration.

Energy efficiency is decent with a SEER rating of 6.51, helping keep electricity costs reasonable for the cooling it delivers. The unit supports multiple fan speeds and modes (cool, fan, and dehumidifier), allowing customization depending on your needs. The 24-hour programmable timer and remote control—plus smart controls via app and voice assistants like Alexa and Google Home—add convenience, letting you set or adjust settings easily without getting up. One standout feature is its true drainage-free system, which automatically evaporates moisture, avoiding the hassle of emptying water tanks even in humid conditions. The unit is also designed for easy mobility with caster wheels and comes with flexible window mounting options.

On the downside, while 45 dB is quiet, it’s not completely silent, so light sleepers might still notice it. The SEER rating is average rather than high-end, so energy costs might be higher over prolonged use compared to top-tier models. Also, the cooling range tops at about 14 feet, so very large rooms may not cool evenly. Lastly, weighing over 57 pounds, it’s not the lightest portable AC but still manageable with wheels. This Dreo model suits those who want a quiet, smart, easy-to-use portable air conditioner primarily for smaller rooms. It balances cooling power, low noise, and handy features, though it’s less suited for large spaces or those seeking the absolute lowest energy consumption.

The Daikin 18,000 BTU 2-Zone Mini Split is a solid choice if you're looking for a quiet and energy-efficient air conditioner that can cool and heat two separate spaces independently. With a very low noise level of just 24 decibels, it operates quietly enough to be unobtrusive in bedrooms, living rooms, or offices. It has a good cooling capacity of 18,000 BTU (or 1.5 tons), making it suitable for areas up to around 800 square feet, and the included heat pump provides reliable heating down to 5°F, so it works well year-round. The system is energy-efficient with a high SEER rating of 21 SEER2 and an EER of 12, helping to keep your electricity bills in check.

The unit comes with remote controls for each indoor fan coil, plus smartphone app and voice control options, which gives you convenient ways to adjust settings like fan speed, temperature, and timer. The programmable timer and multiple fan speeds offer good flexibility to customize airflow and comfort. Its R-32 refrigerant is more environmentally friendly, which is a nice bonus. Installation includes all necessary kits and brackets, but because it's a mini split system, professional installation is recommended.

This model is not Energy Star rated, which might matter if you prioritize certified energy savings. Also, while noise is very low, the product's physical dimensions listed seem minimal, which might be a data entry error but worth confirming. It carries a premium price tag, partly due to its advanced features and 12-year warranty. The Daikin mini split is ideal if you want efficient, quiet, and customizable cooling and heating for two rooms without ductwork, but it may be more than needed for very small spaces or those on a tight budget.

The Daikin 18,000 BTU Entra R32 Series mini split heat pump stands out for its excellent energy efficiency and strong cooling and heating capacity, making it a great choice for spaces up to 1,000 square feet. With a high SEER2 rating of 18 and an EER of 10.5, it promises lower energy bills compared to many standard units. Noise-wise, it operates quietly at 37 dB, which is comfortable for bedrooms, living rooms, or offices where you want minimal distraction.

It offers multiple fan modes including Dry, Fan, Auto, and Powerful Operation, plus features like ECO+ for extra energy savings and a sleep mode for nighttime comfort. A programmable timer and remote control add convenience, allowing you to set schedules and adjust settings easily. Installation is also simplified with the included Maxwell kit and mounting bracket.

While 37 dB is quiet, there are quieter models available if absolute silence is a priority. Also, the system's 230V requirement means it might need specific electrical setup. This Daikin mini split is well suited for homeowners or renovators looking for an efficient, quiet, and versatile air conditioner with heating capability, particularly in homes where ductwork isn’t practical.