10 Best Quiet Air Conditioners 2026 in the United States

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 Midea 12,000 BTU Smart Inverter Air Conditioner is designed for medium to large rooms up to 550 square feet, offering strong cooling power combined with useful heating and dehumidifying features for year-round comfort. It stands out with its energy efficiency, holding an Energy Star rating and using inverter technology that can save up to 35% on electricity compared to standard models. The unit includes multiple fan speeds and five operating modes (cool, heat, dry, fan, auto), which allow you to tailor its performance to your needs.

A programmable 24-hour timer and remote control, along with smart home compatibility (via app and voice assistants like Alexa and Google), add convenience and flexibility. Noise-wise, it operates quietly enough to not disturb daily activities or sleep, with a noise level around 45 dB in low settings, although the specs mention 58 dB which is still reasonable for a window unit. One limitation is that the heat function won't work in very cold outdoor temperatures below 41°F, so it’s more suited for mild heating needs. Installation fits double-hung windows with specific size requirements, which is common for this product type. Its washable filter and electronic controls make maintenance and use straightforward.

This air conditioner is a strong option for those seeking a quiet, energy-efficient unit that also offers heating and smart control features, particularly suitable for moderate climates.

The Amazon Basics 5000-BTU Small Window Air Conditioner is a good choice for cooling small rooms up to 150 square feet, making it suitable for bedrooms or home offices. It offers two fan speeds and seven temperature settings, allowing you to adjust the cooling to your comfort. With a noise level of 56 decibels, it runs quietly enough to not disturb sleep or work, which is important for a quiet air conditioner. It also includes a washable filter that helps keep dust and allergens out of the air, supporting easier maintenance.

Its adjustable window kit fits standard windows, making installation straightforward, though basic tools are needed. On the downside, it lacks a programmable timer and remote control, which means you’ll have to adjust settings manually. The energy efficiency is decent with a SEER rating of 14, helping to keep electricity costs reasonable.

This model covers all the basics and provides efficient cooling for small spaces. However, if you need more advanced features like remote operation or a timer, you might want to consider other models.