10 Best Window Units 2026 in the United States

The LG 18,000 BTU Heat and Cool Window Air Conditioner is designed to efficiently cool or heat rooms up to 1,000 square feet, making it a solid choice for medium to large spaces. Its strong cooling capacity (18,000 BTUs) ensures that it can handle fairly large rooms without struggling. The unit features a Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) of 11.1, which indicates decent energy efficiency for its size, helping to keep electricity costs reasonable during use. At 57 dB, the noise level is average for window units—noticeable but not overly disruptive for most daily activities. Installation is fairly straightforward with the included window kit, but keep in mind the unit is quite large and heavy (over 125 pounds), so having help during installation is advisable. The white matte finish is neutral and will fit most window styles. What sets this model apart is its smart technology: it supports WiFi control through LG ThinQ, and you can use Alexa or Google Assistant for voice commands, which is handy if you want to adjust settings without getting up. It also has a supplemental heating feature, allowing it to function year-round, which adds flexibility beyond just summer use.

Additional conveniences include customizable fan speeds, a 24-hour timer, and an auto-restart after power outages, which helps maintain comfort without manual intervention. The unit also alerts you when it’s time to clean the filter, which is a nice maintenance reminder. On the downside, the Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) isn’t the highest compared to some premium models, so if you prioritize ultra-low energy costs, there might be better options. The noise might be a bit loud if you’re especially sensitive or planning to use it in a bedroom. Also, the 1-year warranty is standard but somewhat limited if you want longer protection. Taking all factors into account, this LG window unit balances strong cooling and heating capacity with smart features and reasonable efficiency, making it a great fit for those wanting versatile and connected climate control for medium to large rooms.

The Frigidaire 12,000 BTU window air conditioner is a solid choice for cooling rooms up to 550 square feet, making it suitable for medium to large spaces like living rooms or bedrooms. Its cooling capacity is strong enough to handle these areas effectively. With an Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) of 10.9, it offers decent energy-saving potential, especially when using Eco Mode or Sleep Mode, which helps reduce power consumption during less active times. Noise-wise, the unit runs at about 57 decibels, which is fairly quiet for an air conditioner of this size, so it won’t be too disruptive during use. Installation is straightforward, as it fits standard windows and comes with a window kit, though the unit’s weight of 63.5 pounds means you may want some help setting it up. The physical size is compact enough not to block the window excessively.

Additional features add convenience: the remote control allows easy temperature and mode adjustments, while a washable dust filter with a reminder light helps maintain clean air and efficient operation. The 24-hour timer and Dry Mode for reducing humidity are also useful extras. On the downside, the noise level, while low, might still be noticeable to very sensitive sleepers. Its EER is good but not the highest available, so there are more energy-efficient options out there if minimizing electricity bills is a top priority. The one-year warranty is standard but relatively short.

This unit is dependable and offers practical features that provide a good balance of comfort, convenience, and energy use for typical home cooling needs.

The Midea MAW12HV1CWT EasyCool Smart Inverter Air Conditioner Window Unit with Heat is a versatile option for large rooms up to 550 square feet, offering both cooling and heating functions. With a cooling capacity of 12,000 BTUs, this unit is designed to provide effective temperature control throughout the year. However, the heating function may not work efficiently when the outside temperature drops below 41°F.

It is equipped with a variety of useful features, including an LED display, multiple modes and speed settings, a 24-hour timer, and an energy-saving ECO mode, enhancing user convenience. Its compatibility with the SmartHome App and voice control via Alexa and Google Assistant allows remote operation, adding to its user-friendliness. The unit's energy efficiency is notable, with a high CEER rating of 13.3 and Energy Star certification, promising considerable energy savings.

A noise level as low as 45 dBA ensures quiet operation, making it suitable for bedrooms or home offices. Installation requires a window opening width between 24 to 38.5 inches and a vertical clearance of 14.5 inches. The air conditioner comes with an installation kit, remote control, and a washable filter for easy maintenance. However, its weight of 58 pounds might make installation a bit challenging for some users. Additionally, it requires regular cleaning of the filter to maintain optimal performance. This window unit is ideal for users looking for a combination of cooling and heating with modern smart features and energy efficiency, though its heating capabilities have some temperature limitations.