10 Best Window Unit Air Conditioners 2026 in the United States

The Amazon Basics 5000-BTU window air conditioner is a solid choice for cooling small rooms up to 150 square feet, such as bedrooms or home offices. With 5000 BTU of cooling power, it can comfortably handle these spaces without wasting energy. Its energy efficiency ratio (SEER 14) suggests it uses power reasonably well, helping keep electricity bills in check. Noise level is quite low at 56 dB, which means it won’t be too disruptive during sleep or work, a benefit for quiet environments.

Installation is straightforward for most standard windows (23" to 36" wide), thanks to adjustable side panels and a complete mounting kit, although basic tools like a screwdriver are needed. The unit offers simple mechanical controls with seven temperature settings and two fan speeds, providing decent control over comfort. Additionally, the washable filter helps trap dust and allergens, making maintenance easy and improving air quality. It also features a fan-only mode and two-way air direction control for added flexibility.

This unit is designed specifically for small rooms and won’t be effective in larger spaces. It also lacks smart features like remote control or Wi-Fi connectivity, which some competing models offer. For those seeking a budget-friendly, easy-to-use air conditioner for a small room with decent energy efficiency and quiet operation, this model is a fitting option.

The LG 10,000 BTU window air conditioner is a solid choice for cooling medium-sized rooms up to about 450 square feet. Its 10,000 BTU capacity means it can effectively lower the temperature in spaces like bedrooms or living rooms without overworking. It offers three fan speeds and a useful auto-cooling mode, so you can find a comfortable setting easily. The unit runs quietly, producing noise around 52 decibels, which is low enough to not disturb sleep or work. Installation is straightforward thanks to its thin design and included kit, making it easier to fit into most standard windows.

One of its standout features is Wi-Fi connectivity via LG ThinQ technology, allowing you to control the air conditioner remotely with your smartphone or voice commands through Alexa or Google Assistant. This adds convenient options for adjusting settings without needing the remote. It also includes a washable dust filter and an auto-restart function that resumes cooling after a power outage.

While the energy efficiency ratio (SEER 11.4) is moderate and it isn’t Energy Star certified, which means it may use more electricity compared to some other models, this LG model balances effective cooling, quiet operation, and smart controls well. The warranty covers one year, which is typical but not very long, and although it doesn't have advanced air purification features or a very high efficiency rating, it remains a good pick for those wanting easy installation and convenient remote operation in a medium-sized room.

The Midea MAW08V1QWT is an 8,000 BTU window air conditioner designed to cool rooms up to about 350 square feet. One of its biggest strengths is its quiet operation, thanks to a unique U-shaped design and an advanced inverter system that keeps noise as low as 32 decibels—much quieter than many traditional window units. This design also lets you keep your window partly open for fresh air and a better view, which is a nice touch not often seen in other models.

Energy efficiency is another highlight. It uses DC inverter technology and the refrigerant R-32 to save over 35% energy compared to older units, earning an ENERGY STAR certification. This means it’s kinder on your electricity bill while still cooling effectively. The unit runs on 115 volts and draws 710 watts, which is reasonable for this cooling size. Installation is user-friendly with a quick-snap bracket system that fits standard single or double-hung windows between 22 to 36 inches wide. While it weighs about 55 pounds, the included bracket and side arms help secure it safely.

Additional features include smart Wi-Fi control through an app, compatibility with Alexa and Google Assistant for voice commands, and practical extras like a dehumidifier and dust filter. These make it convenient and enhance air quality. On the downside, while its size fits many windows, the unit is relatively deep at about 19 inches, so it may protrude noticeably. Also, although very quiet, some users might find the airflow (215 CFM on high) a bit modest for very large or open rooms. Its price or availability might also be a consideration compared to simpler models. This Midea window AC is an excellent choice if you want quiet performance, energy savings, and smart features, especially for medium-sized rooms. It’s easy to install and offers some modern conveniences, though if you need ultra-powerful cooling or have tight window space, you might want to check other options.