10 Best Se Portable Ac Units 2026 in the United States

The Dreo Portable Air Conditioner offers a solid cooling capacity of 8000 BTU (ASHRAE rating) but effectively 5000 BTU DOE, making it suitable for small to medium bedrooms up to about 150 square feet. Its energy efficiency is decent with a SEER of 6.1, which should keep running costs reasonable for this type of unit. One of the standout features is its very quiet operation at 45 dB, thanks to Dreo’s patented noise isolation system, making it a good choice for bedrooms or workspaces where low noise is important.

The unit is fairly portable with smooth caster wheels and fits a wide range of window sizes using modular panels, though at about 25 inches tall and weighing 55 pounds, it’s not the lightest model around. Installation includes an exhaust hose that needs window ventilation, which is typical but something to plan for. The drainage-free system is convenient since it automatically evaporates moisture, eliminating the hassle of manual drainage in most humid conditions.

Additional smart features include app and voice control compatibility (Siri, Alexa, Google Assistant), customizable temperature and humidity settings, and a sleep curve function that can enhance comfort during the night. The cooling power may be limited for larger rooms or very hot climates, and while the noise level is low, it’s not completely silent. Also, some users might find the 59-inch exhaust hose a bit short depending on their window setup. The Dreo AC318S is a versatile and user-friendly portable AC that fits well in small bedrooms or personal spaces where quiet operation and smart features are valued.

The BLACK+DECKER Smart Portable Air Conditioner with Heat is a versatile unit designed for rooms up to 700 sq. ft. It offers both cooling and heating capabilities, making it suitable for year-round use. With a 14,000 BTU ASHRAE (10,000 BTU DOE) cooling capacity and 12,000 BTU heating capacity, it can handle a variety of temperature conditions effectively. One of its notable features is the 'Follow Me' remote control, which acts as a thermostat for more precise climate control. Additionally, its smart connectivity allows it to be controlled via a mobile app or voice commands using Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. This can be particularly convenient for tech-savvy users who enjoy smart home integration.

In terms of energy efficiency, the unit has a SEER of 6.2, which is relatively low and may result in higher energy consumption compared to more efficient models. It operates at a noise level of 54 dB, which is moderate and should be bearable for most users, though it may still be noticeable in quieter environments. The unit is quite portable, weighing 35 pounds and measuring 16.5” x 14.06” x 27.09”, which makes it easy to move from room to room. The included installation kit simplifies the setup process, ensuring that users can start using the unit quickly.

This model is not Energy Star rated, which might be a downside for those particularly concerned about energy efficiency. Also, while it's highly ranked and has many positive reviews, some users might find the noise level a bit disruptive in extremely quiet spaces. The BLACK+DECKER Smart Portable Air Conditioner with Heat is a solid choice for those looking for a multi-functional, tech-friendly AC unit, though it could be more energy-efficient.

The BLACK+DECKER Smart Portable Air Conditioner offers a strong cooling capacity of 14,000 BTU, making it suitable for cooling rooms up to 700 square feet, which fits well for medium to large rooms. It also works as a dehumidifier and a fan, giving you versatile comfort options beyond just cooling. With a SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) of 6.2, its energy efficiency is moderate, so it won't be the cheapest on your electricity bill but not overly costly either.

Noise is a consideration here; at 54 decibels, it's somewhat noticeable, roughly like a normal conversation, which could be a bit distracting for very quiet settings like bedrooms at night. The unit is fairly portable for its size and power, measuring about 16.5 x 14 x 27 inches and weighing 62.4 pounds—manageable if you need to move it between rooms but not super light. Installation is straightforward with the included window kit and exhaust hose, designed for typical window setups, though proper ventilation is necessary as with all portable ACs. A standout feature is its smart capabilities: you can control it via a mobile app or voice commands with Alexa and Google Assistant, plus the Follow Me remote acts like a thermostat, improving temperature accuracy where you are in the room. The washable filter is a plus for maintenance and longevity.

The cooling capacity stated as ASHRAE (14,000 BTU) versus the lower SACC rating (10,200 BTU) indicates real-world cooling might be less than the headline number suggests, which is common in portable units but worth knowing. Also, the 1-year warranty is somewhat short compared to some competitors. This BLACK+DECKER model is a solid choice if you want a smart, multi-purpose portable AC for medium-large rooms and don't mind a bit of background noise or moderate energy use.