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10 Best Standing Air Conditioners 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

BLACK+DECKER Portable Air Conditioner, 12,000 BTU (8,000 BTU SACC) for Rooms up to 550 Sq. Ft., Portable AC with Follow Me Remote Control and Window Kit, BPACT12WT, White

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,476
Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Noise Level
Control Options

Most important from
43703 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTU)
The BLACK+DECKER unit easily cools the room in a few minutes and maintains the temperature effectively throughout the day.
Noise Level
This air conditioner is much quieter than previous units, allowing for phone conversations and video calls without disruption.
Control Options
Despite its excellent cooling performance, the remote control's LCD screen could benefit from illumination for easier reading in dimly lit rooms.

The BLACK+DECKER Portable Air Conditioner (model BPACT12WT) is designed for rooms up to 550 sq. ft., making it suitable for bedrooms and small living spaces. With a cooling capacity of 12,000 BTU ASHRAE (8,000 BTU DOE), it offers adequate cooling power for its intended space. The unit also functions as a dehumidifier and fan, providing versatility in different weather conditions. One of its standout features is the 'Follow Me' remote control, which allows for precise temperature control by using the remote as a thermostat. This adds convenience and ensures consistent cooling based on the user’s location within the room.

The casters and side handles make it easy to move the unit from room to room, enhancing its portability. The included window kit aids in straightforward installation, which is a plus for users who prefer a hassle-free setup. In terms of energy efficiency, the unit has a Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) of 5.8, which is moderate but not the best in its class. The noise level is 52 dB, which is relatively quiet and should not disturb sleep or daily activities. However, the unit weighs 56.8 pounds, which may be cumbersome for some users despite its portability features.

While the unit is effective in cooling and has a decent airflow, it may not be suitable for larger spaces or for those seeking the highest energy efficiency. This model is a solid choice for those looking for an easy-to-install, portable air conditioner with good cooling capabilities and convenient control features.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,476
Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Noise Level
Control Options

Most important from
43703 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTU)
The BLACK+DECKER unit easily cools the room in a few minutes and maintains the temperature effectively throughout the day.
Noise Level
This air conditioner is much quieter than previous units, allowing for phone conversations and video calls without disruption.
Control Options
Despite its excellent cooling performance, the remote control's LCD screen could benefit from illumination for easier reading in dimly lit rooms.
#2

BLACK+DECKER Portable Air Conditioner, 9,000 BTU (5,300 BTU SACC) for Rooms up to 400 Sq. Ft., Portable AC with Follow Me Remote Control and Window Kit, BPACT08WT, White

Rating
10.0
Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Noise Level
Control Options

Most important from
43703 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTU)
This unit easily cools the room within minutes and maintains a comfortable temperature throughout the day.
Noise Level
Despite the expected noise from the fan and condenser, the unit is much quieter than previous models, allowing for phone calls without needing to shut it off.
Control Options
The remote control could use an illuminated screen for better readability in dim lighting.

The BLACK+DECKER Portable Air Conditioner offers a cooling capacity of 9000 BTU ASHRAE (5300 BTU DOE), making it suitable for rooms up to 400 sq. ft. This cooling range is ideal for bedrooms or small living spaces. Its Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) of 5.4 is moderate, which means it won't be the most energy-efficient option but will still provide reasonable performance in terms of energy consumption. The noise level of 54 dB is relatively quiet, allowing for a peaceful environment without much disturbance.

Additionally, this unit functions as a dehumidifier and fan, increasing its versatility in different weather conditions. Portability is a key strength, with casters and side handles making it easy to move the unit between rooms. The included window kit simplifies installation, which is a plus for users who might be concerned about setup hassles.

Control options include a FOLLOW ME remote control and an LED display, providing convenient and precise temperature management. However, some users might find its weight of 52.9 pounds slightly cumbersome despite its portability features. This BLACK+DECKER model is a well-rounded option for those looking for a portable air conditioner with decent cooling capacity, ease of mobility, and convenient control options, though it may not be the most energy-efficient choice available.

Rating
10.0
Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Noise Level
Control Options

Most important from
43703 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTU)
This unit easily cools the room within minutes and maintains a comfortable temperature throughout the day.
Noise Level
Despite the expected noise from the fan and condenser, the unit is much quieter than previous models, allowing for phone calls without needing to shut it off.
Control Options
The remote control could use an illuminated screen for better readability in dim lighting.
#3

Dreo Portable Air Conditioners, 8000 BTU ASHRAE (5000 BTU DOE) Smart AC Unit for Bedroom with Drainage-free Cooling, 45dB Quiet, APP/Voice/Remote, Portable AC for Room Indoors, AC318S

Rating
9.8
Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Noise Level
Portability

Most important from
512 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Delivers powerful cooling that can reduce room temperature by nearly 10 degrees within an hour, making it highly effective for small spaces.
Noise Level
Operates quietly enough for most daily activities, though it may be noticeable during sleep for sensitive users.
Portability
Magnetic remote holder on the unit is convenient but not very strong, so care is needed when moving the AC around.
Control Options
The app offers intuitive controls that enhance the overall user experience and simplify temperature management.

The Dreo Portable Air Conditioner offers a solid cooling capacity of 8000 BTU (ASHRAE standard) suitable for rooms up to about 150 square feet, such as bedrooms or small living areas. Its cooling range from 61°F to 86°F allows for customizable comfort. The unit operates quietly at 45 dB, utilizing Dreo's patented noise isolation system, making it a good choice for bedrooms or workspaces where low noise is important. Its energy efficiency ratio (SEER) is 6.1, which is moderate and reasonable for portable ACs in this category.

A standout feature is the true drainage-free system that automatically evaporates moisture, eliminating the need to empty water tanks even in humid conditions up to 90%. This feature offers added convenience and lower maintenance compared to many other portable air conditioners. Portability is addressed with caster wheels for easy movement and a versatile window kit compatible with many window types, making installation straightforward. The modern and user-friendly control options include remote control, voice commands with Alexa, Siri, and Google Home, plus a smartphone app for monitoring and customizing temperature and humidity. The 3-in-1 function (cool, fan, dry) adds versatility for different weather conditions.

At 55 pounds, it is relatively heavy for a portable AC, so while movable, it might be less convenient for frequent relocation. Additionally, its moderate energy efficiency means electricity costs may be higher with extensive use. The unit is compact for a portable air conditioner but requires window access for venting. This Dreo model is a reliable, quiet, and smart portable AC well-suited for bedroom use or small rooms, especially for those seeking hassle-free drainage and advanced control options, though users should consider the moderate energy consumption and its weight if portability is a key factor.

Rating
9.8
Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Noise Level
Portability

Most important from
512 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Delivers powerful cooling that can reduce room temperature by nearly 10 degrees within an hour, making it highly effective for small spaces.
Noise Level
Operates quietly enough for most daily activities, though it may be noticeable during sleep for sensitive users.
Portability
Magnetic remote holder on the unit is convenient but not very strong, so care is needed when moving the AC around.
Control Options
The app offers intuitive controls that enhance the overall user experience and simplify temperature management.

Buying Guide for the Best Standing Air Conditioners

Choosing the right standing air conditioner can significantly improve your comfort at home or in the office. To make an informed decision, it's important to understand the key specifications and how they relate to your needs. This guide will help you navigate through the essential features and select the best standing air conditioner for your space.
Cooling Capacity (BTU)Cooling capacity, measured in British Thermal Units (BTU), indicates how much heat an air conditioner can remove from a room per hour. This is crucial because it determines the effectiveness of the unit in cooling your space. For small rooms (up to 150 square feet), a unit with 5,000-6,000 BTU is sufficient. Medium-sized rooms (150-300 square feet) require 7,000-8,000 BTU, while larger rooms (300-500 square feet) need 10,000-12,000 BTU. For spaces larger than 500 square feet, consider units with 14,000 BTU or more. Choose a unit with the appropriate BTU rating based on the size of the room you intend to cool.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)The Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) measures the efficiency of an air conditioner by comparing the cooling capacity (BTU) to the power input (watts). A higher EER indicates a more energy-efficient unit, which can save you money on electricity bills. EER ratings typically range from 8 to 12. For optimal energy savings, look for units with an EER of 10 or higher. If you prioritize energy efficiency and lower operating costs, aim for a higher EER rating.
Noise LevelNoise level, measured in decibels (dB), indicates how loud the air conditioner will be during operation. This is important for maintaining a comfortable and quiet environment, especially in bedrooms or offices. Noise levels for standing air conditioners typically range from 50 to 70 dB. Units with noise levels below 60 dB are considered quiet and are suitable for most living spaces. If you are sensitive to noise or plan to use the unit in a quiet area, opt for a model with a lower dB rating.
Airflow (CFM)Airflow, measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM), indicates how much air the unit can circulate in a given time. Higher CFM values mean better air circulation and more effective cooling. For small rooms, a CFM of 200-300 is adequate. Medium-sized rooms benefit from 300-400 CFM, while larger rooms may require 400-500 CFM or more. Choose a unit with an appropriate CFM rating based on the size of your room and your cooling needs.
DehumidificationDehumidification refers to the air conditioner's ability to remove moisture from the air, measured in pints per hour. This feature is important in humid climates as it helps maintain a comfortable indoor environment and prevents mold growth. Units with higher dehumidification capacities are more effective in reducing humidity. If you live in a humid area, look for a unit with a higher dehumidification rate to ensure optimal comfort.
PortabilityPortability refers to the ease with which you can move the air conditioner from one room to another. This is important if you need to cool different areas at different times. Look for units with wheels and handles for easy transportation. If you plan to move the unit frequently, choose a model that is lightweight and has convenient features for mobility.
Control OptionsControl options include the various ways you can operate the air conditioner, such as remote controls, programmable timers, and smart connectivity. These features add convenience and allow you to customize the cooling experience. Remote controls and programmable timers are useful for setting the unit to operate at specific times, while smart connectivity enables control via smartphone apps. Choose a unit with control options that match your lifestyle and preferences for added convenience.

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