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10 Best Quietest Air Conditioner 2026 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Midea 12,000 BTU Smart Inverter Air Conditioner Window Unit with Heat and Dehumidifier – Cools up to 550 Sq. Ft., Energy Star Rated, Quiet Operation, Electronic Controls, Remote Control, White

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,353
Noise Level (dB)
Inverter Technology
Installation Type

Most important from
18088 reviews

Noise Level (dB)
Runs impressively quietly, comparable to a fridge or ceiling fan, making it ideal for bedrooms and home offices.
Inverter Technology
The inverter technology adjusts compressor speed smoothly, avoiding the usual loud on/off cycling and maintaining steady comfort.
Installation Type
Installation is straightforward and can be done entirely from inside the house without complex external brackets.
Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Effectively cools medium to large rooms up to 600 square feet, keeping indoor temperatures comfortably lower than outside heat.
Fan Speeds
Multiple fan speeds and smart controls, including remote and app operation, enhance user convenience and customization.

The Midea 12,000 BTU Smart Inverter Air Conditioner is a strong choice if you want a quiet and energy-efficient unit for a medium to large room up to 550 square feet. It offers a good cooling capacity suitable for most bedrooms or living rooms, combined with a heat feature for cooler seasons, although the heating won’t work below 41°F. Its noise level is impressively low at about 45 decibels, meaning it runs quietly enough not to disrupt conversations, TV watching, or work calls, which is great for bedrooms or home offices. The inverter technology helps save energy by adjusting the compressor speed, and the unit is Energy Star certified, promising up to 35% less electricity use than standard models.

You can control it easily via remote, an app, or voice assistants like Alexa, providing convenience and modern smart home integration. It also has multiple fan speeds and modes to customize comfort, plus a dehumidifier function that helps improve indoor air quality during humid weather. Installation is designed for standard double-hung windows, and everything needed is included in the package. On the downside, the noise spec shows 58 dB in some descriptions, which is a bit louder than the lowest claim, so expect some sound on higher fan settings. Also, while the heat function is useful, it isn’t reliable in very cold weather.

The unit’s size means it requires a suitable window opening and may not fit all window types. This Midea air conditioner suits anyone wanting a quiet, efficient, easy-to-use window unit that cools well and adds some heating, ideal for year-round comfort in medium to large rooms.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,353
Noise Level (dB)
Inverter Technology
Installation Type

Most important from
18088 reviews

Noise Level (dB)
Runs impressively quietly, comparable to a fridge or ceiling fan, making it ideal for bedrooms and home offices.
Inverter Technology
The inverter technology adjusts compressor speed smoothly, avoiding the usual loud on/off cycling and maintaining steady comfort.
Installation Type
Installation is straightforward and can be done entirely from inside the house without complex external brackets.
Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Effectively cools medium to large rooms up to 600 square feet, keeping indoor temperatures comfortably lower than outside heat.
Fan Speeds
Multiple fan speeds and smart controls, including remote and app operation, enhance user convenience and customization.
#2

SereneLife 14000 BTU Ultra Quiet Portable Inverter Air Conditioner, Smart Cooling & Heating with WiFi, Energy Efficient, For Bedrooms, Living Spaces & Offices, 650 Sq Ft Coverage

Rating
8.8
Noise Level (dB)
Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)

Most important from
26800 reviews

Noise Level (dB)
While not completely silent, the noise level is acceptable for most living spaces and can be managed by adjusting nearby audio levels.
Cooling Capacity (BTU)
The unit cools quickly and effectively, with airflow strong enough to cool large open areas effortlessly.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Energy efficiency is strong, offering up to 40% savings compared to standard portable air conditioners.
Fan Speeds
The fan's sweeping motion enhances air circulation, improving overall comfort.
Inverter Technology
The compressor's variable speed design contributes to efficient cooling but can cause a noticeable high-pitched whirring sound at times.
Installation Type
Installation is straightforward with a universal window mount kit that fits both standard and sliding windows well.

The SereneLife 14000 BTU Ultra Quiet Portable Inverter Air Conditioner is designed for medium to large rooms up to 650 sq. ft, making it suitable for bedrooms, offices, or living spaces. It uses inverter technology and a high-efficiency rotary compressor to cool quickly—about 50% faster than typical portable ACs. While the product claims to operate at 43 dBA for quiet performance, the official noise level is around 53 dB, which is still reasonably quiet but may be noticeable in very quiet environments like bedrooms at night. Its energy efficiency is solid, being up to 40% more efficient than standard portable units, which helps save on electricity bills over time.

This model also offers multiple functions including cooling, heating, dehumidifying, and fan modes, controlled easily via a remote or smart Wi-Fi, adding convenience and versatility throughout the year. Installation is straightforward with the included universal window mount kit, and maintenance is simplified by a washable air filter. The unit is portable with smooth casters and has a modern, compact design that fits well in most rooms. However, it weighs about 53 pounds, which might be a bit heavy for frequent moving.

It comes with a 1-year warranty, and while it may be less silent than traditional split ACs or units specifically designed for ultra-quiet operation, this SereneLife portable AC represents a good choice for those needing efficient, all-season climate control with moderate noise levels and easy installation, especially if mobility and Wi-Fi control are important factors.

Rating
8.8
Noise Level (dB)
Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)

Most important from
26800 reviews

Noise Level (dB)
While not completely silent, the noise level is acceptable for most living spaces and can be managed by adjusting nearby audio levels.
Cooling Capacity (BTU)
The unit cools quickly and effectively, with airflow strong enough to cool large open areas effortlessly.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Energy efficiency is strong, offering up to 40% savings compared to standard portable air conditioners.
Fan Speeds
The fan's sweeping motion enhances air circulation, improving overall comfort.
Inverter Technology
The compressor's variable speed design contributes to efficient cooling but can cause a noticeable high-pitched whirring sound at times.
Installation Type
Installation is straightforward with a universal window mount kit that fits both standard and sliding windows well.
#3

Daikin 24,000 BTU 21 SEER2 Oterra R32 Series Ductless Mini-Split Air Conditioner with Installation Kit and Wall Bracket- 230V

Rating
8.8
Noise Level (dB)
Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)

Most important from
10 reviews

Noise Level (dB)
Operates with remarkable quietness, making it unobtrusive in any room.
Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Delivers precise heating and cooling that consistently meets temperature expectations.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Balances energy efficiency with strong performance for medium to large spaces.
Installation Type
Installation and shipping are hassle-free, arriving quickly and without damage.

The Daikin 24,000 BTU Oterra R32 mini-split air conditioner is a strong choice if you're looking for quiet and efficient cooling and heating for spaces up to 1,500 square feet. With a noise level of just 39 decibels, it operates quietly enough to be unobtrusive, which is great for bedrooms, offices, or living areas. It uses inverter technology, allowing it to adjust cooling power smoothly, which not only saves energy but also helps keep noise levels low compared to traditional units.

This unit offers a cooling capacity close to 24,000 BTUs and a high 21 SEER2 efficiency rating, meaning it can cool effectively without driving up your electricity bills. It also provides heating, working well in a wide temperature range, which makes it useful for year-round comfort in various climates. The included installation kit and wall bracket simplify set-up, though being a ductless split system, it’s best suited for homes or rooms where ductwork isn’t practical.

Daikin adds durability features like anti-corrosion treatment and easy maintenance options, plus air purification to improve indoor air quality. The remote control and multiple fan speeds offer convenient control and comfort customization. While 39 dB is quiet, it’s not the absolute lowest noise level available on some ultra-quiet models. Additionally, the size of the outdoor unit might require some space considerations, and the initial cost and installation for a mini-split system can be higher than window units or portable ACs. This Daikin model fits well if you want a reliable, quiet, and energy-efficient air conditioner for medium to large rooms without ductwork, balancing comfort, quiet operation, and efficiency.

Rating
8.8
Noise Level (dB)
Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)

Most important from
10 reviews

Noise Level (dB)
Operates with remarkable quietness, making it unobtrusive in any room.
Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Delivers precise heating and cooling that consistently meets temperature expectations.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Balances energy efficiency with strong performance for medium to large spaces.
Installation Type
Installation and shipping are hassle-free, arriving quickly and without damage.

Buying Guide for the Best Quietest Air Conditioner

Choosing the right air conditioner can significantly impact your comfort, energy consumption, and overall satisfaction. When looking for the quietest air conditioner, it's essential to consider several key specifications that will help you find the best fit for your needs. Understanding these specs will guide you in making an informed decision that balances performance, noise levels, and efficiency.
Noise Level (dB)The noise level of an air conditioner is measured in decibels (dB). This spec is crucial because it directly affects how quiet the unit will be when operating. Lower dB values indicate quieter operation. Typically, air conditioners range from 40 dB (very quiet) to 60 dB (moderate noise). For a bedroom or a quiet office, aim for a unit with a noise level below 50 dB. For living rooms or areas where some noise is acceptable, up to 60 dB might be tolerable.
Cooling Capacity (BTU)Cooling capacity, measured in British Thermal Units (BTU), indicates how much heat the air conditioner can remove from a room per hour. This spec is important because it ensures the unit can effectively cool your space. Smaller rooms (up to 150 square feet) typically need around 5,000-6,000 BTU, while larger rooms (up to 400 square feet) may require 10,000-12,000 BTU. Choose a unit with the appropriate BTU for your room size to avoid overworking the unit, which can increase noise levels.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)The Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) measures the air conditioner's efficiency by comparing the cooling capacity to the power input. A higher EER indicates a more efficient unit, which is important for reducing energy consumption and operating costs. EER values typically range from 8 to 12. For a quieter and more efficient unit, look for an air conditioner with an EER of 10 or higher. Efficient units often have better components that can contribute to quieter operation.
Fan SpeedsFan speeds refer to the different settings that control the airflow and cooling intensity of the air conditioner. This spec is important because it allows you to adjust the noise level and cooling performance. Units with multiple fan speeds (usually 3 or more) offer greater flexibility. For quieter operation, you can set the fan to a lower speed, which reduces noise. Choose a unit with at least three fan speeds to have more control over the noise and cooling balance.
Inverter TechnologyInverter technology allows the air conditioner to adjust its compressor speed based on the cooling demand, rather than turning on and off repeatedly. This spec is important because it leads to more consistent temperatures, better energy efficiency, and quieter operation. Inverter air conditioners are generally quieter because they avoid the loud start-up noise of traditional units. If you prioritize quietness, look for a model with inverter technology.
Installation TypeThe installation type (window, portable, split, or central) affects the noise level and overall performance of the air conditioner. This spec is important because different types have varying noise levels and installation requirements. Window and portable units tend to be noisier, while split and central systems are generally quieter. If noise is a primary concern, consider a split or central air conditioning system, as they typically have quieter indoor units.

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