10 Best Standing Ac Units 2026 in the United States

The Midea MAW12HV1CWT EasyCool Smart Inverter Air Conditioner is a versatile unit, offering both cooling and heating functions, making it suitable for multi-season use. With a cooling capacity of 12,000 BTU, it efficiently cools large rooms up to 550 square feet. Its noise level is relatively low, operating at 45 dBA, which ensures it won't disturb your activities or sleep. The energy efficiency ratio (EER) of 13.3 indicates it’s an energy-saving option, potentially lowering your electricity bills by up to 35% compared to standard units.

Additionally, it is equipped with smart features, such as WiFi control via an app and voice control through Alexa and Google Assistant, enhancing user convenience. The unit's LED display, multiple modes, and settings, as well as the included remote control, provide versatile operation options. Installation is straightforward with the provided kit, though it is designed specifically for double-hung windows.

It's important to note that the heating function does not operate effectively when the outdoor temperature falls below 41°F. The Midea MAW12HV1CWT combines efficient performance, quiet operation, and smart features, making it a strong contender for those needing a reliable and energy-efficient HVAC solution for larger spaces, although its heating function has limitations in colder climates.

The Dreo Portable Air Conditioner offers a cooling capacity of 8,000 BTU, making it a suitable option for small to medium-sized rooms, covering an area of about 150 square feet. Its standout feature is the drainage-free cooling system powered by DREO's patented technology, eliminating the hassle of manual water drainage in high-humidity environments. With a quiet operation at just 45 dB, it’s well-suited for bedrooms or offices where noise can be a distraction.

This unit's portability is enhanced by smooth caster wheels, allowing easy movement across rooms. It comes with a versatile installation kit for both horizontal and vertical sliding windows, making setup relatively straightforward. The Smart Climate Control feature is notable, enabling users to control the AC via a smartphone app or voice commands through Alexa, Google Assistant, or Siri, offering modern convenience.

On the downside, the energy efficiency could be better, as indicated by its SEER rating of 6.1, which may lead to higher energy consumption compared to more efficient models. Additionally, at 55 pounds, it could be considered relatively heavy for a portable unit, which might make moving it around a bit challenging for some users.

This AC unit’s multi-functionality is impressive, offering cooling, fan, and dehumidifying modes, along with customizable settings for various environments. It fits the needs of those looking for a multi-functional, quiet, and smart-controlled AC unit, but those prioritizing energy efficiency might want to explore other options. With a high customer satisfaction rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, it seems to be a favored choice among users seeking quiet and effective cooling solutions.

The Whynter Portable Air Conditioner is a strong contender for cooling larger rooms, boasting a substantial 14,000 BTU cooling capacity, which is suitable for spaces up to 500 sq. ft. This makes it ideal for bedrooms or living rooms. It operates quietly at 51 dB, which means it won’t be too disruptive, even at night. The unit also features a dual hose system, which is generally more efficient in cooling compared to single hose models.

It includes three operational modes – cooling, dehumidifying, and fan – giving users versatile usage options all year round. The built-in dehumidifier is a particularly useful feature, capable of removing up to 71 pints of moisture per day, which can be a boon in humid climates. However, its SEER rating of 7.69 is on the lower side, indicating it may not be as energy-efficient as some other models. Additionally, it is not Energy Star certified, which might raise concerns for energy-conscious users.

Despite this, the unit was awarded Good Housekeeping's 2024 'Best Portable Air Conditioner,' highlighting its performance. It's relatively portable with included wheels and a compact design but bear in mind it is still a bit bulky. The package includes an extendable window kit, making installation easier. For those needing efficient cooling and dehumidifying in larger spaces with a relatively low noise level, this unit could be a great choice.