Best Buy Guidebook is a culmination of online publishing lessons learned. From SEO to paid ads, our team has experienced the highest of highs and the lowest of lows. Our goal now is simple: Arm readers with the most information possible.
Mobile air conditioners offer a practical solution for staying cool during hot weather, especially in rooms without built-in air conditioning. We’ve meticulously evaluated and researched various models available on the market to help you find the best portable air conditioners of 2024. We curated a comprehensive list of top picks based on essential features like energy efficiency, noise levels, and ease of installation.
Among the top contenders, the Evapolar evaCHILL Air Cooler stood out for its exceptional performance and effortlessly mobility. Its lightweight design and built-in handle make it a breeze to transport anywhere, from living spaces to camping tents. Read on to learn more about this model and the other options that impressed us the most.
The Evapolar evaCHILL portable air conditioner stands out due to its exceptional performance and compact design. Its mini size, lightweight build, and built-in handle make it the most portable A/C unit available. Ideal for use in cars, at desks, or inside tents, this air cooler effectively targets personal spaces, providing a pleasant breeze within 3-5 feet.
Even though it’s smaller than traditional mobile air conditioners, it combines the functionalities of an evaporative air cooler, humidifier, and fan. Operating on just 10W of power, the air conditioner significantly reduces energy consumption and avoids the drying effects typical of traditional AC units. It boasts whisper-quiet operation and even connects to power sources like USB power banks, laptops, and car outlets, making it versatile for travel, work, or relaxation. With this portable air conditoner, you can enjoy a refreshing, comfortable environment anytime, anywhere.
| 3-in-1: Cools, humidifies, traps dust | Power Source: USB-powered, 2A 5V |
| Water Tank Capacity: 20 ounces | Noise Level: Up to 50dB |
| Power: Consumes 10W of energy | Material: Basalt fiber cartridge |
The SereneLife small portable air conditioner delivers superior cooling performance compared to its competition, keeping rooms up to 650 square feet refreshingly cool even on the hottest days. With its 3-in-1 functionality, it’s not just an A/C unit but also a dehumidifier and fan, providing exceptional convenience.
The automatic swing mode maximizes air circulation, creating a consistent flow throughout the room. The digital touch button control panel, paired with a remote control, allows you to adjust power mode, timer, temperature, and fan speed settings with ease. Moving the unit is hassle-free, thanks to its smooth wheels and side handles. Its removable, washable double-layer filter protects your family from dust, while the low operating noise level doesn’t disturb the environment.
| 3 modes: Cooling, dehumidifier, fan | Manual and automatic drainage |
| Dimensions: 13.8″ x 14.6″ x 27.2″ | 14,000 BTU power |
| Cools up to 650 sq ft | Noise level: 55-57 dB |
The GE 5,100 BTU portable air conditioner efficiently cools spaces up to 150 square feet, making it an ideal choice for small offices or bedrooms. This compact unit combines air conditioning, two fan speeds, and dehumidifying capabilities into one efficient package. It features user-friendly LED controls, including a 24-hour on/off timer and an auto-restart function, as well as a remote control, making it easy to adjust settings from anywhere in the room.
Its auto-evaporation feature eliminates the hassle of manual draining, as it evaporates collected water under most room conditions. Maintenance is easy with a washable filter. The easy-roll wheels make it simple to move the unit between rooms as needed. However, this portable A/C unit also comes with a no-cut window kit for fast and easy installation into double-hung or sliding windows.
| Functionality: Air conditioner, fan, dehumidifier | Power Requirement: 115V |
| Cooling Capacity: 5,100 BTU | Control Type: Digital with remote |
| Room Size Coverage: Up to 150 sq ft | Energy Efficiency Rating: 6.5 |
Experience advanced home comfort with the Pro Breeze 4-in-1 portable air conditioner, designed to cool rooms up to 450 square feet to a refreshing 61°F. Whether in your living room, bedroom, home office, or motor home, this unit features a dehumidifier, fan, and whisper-quiet night mode for undisturbed sleep. Its intuitive controls allow you to adjust fan speeds and set timers effortlessly, while built-in wheels enable easy movement from room to room.
What sets this portable air conditioner apart is its integration of smart technology and WiFi connectivity, letting you control the temperature remotely via your smartphone. You can also sync it with Alexa or Google Home for voice commands or use the included remote for direct adjustments. With environmentally friendly R410a refrigerant, it not only maximizes energy efficiency but also minimizes environmental impact. Installation is a snap with the included window kit, offering flexible placement options to suit your needs.
| Modes: Air cooling, dehumidifying, fan, sleep | Smart Control: Alexa and Google Home |
| Cooling Capacity: 10,000 BTU | Coverage Area: Up to 450 sq ft |
| Temperature Range: Down to 61°F | CEER: 6.6 |
The De’Longhi portable air conditioner impresses with its ability to cool areas as large as 700 square feet quickly and efficiently. It features a programmable timer and motorized air direction control, letting you customize airflow and schedule according to your specific needs. The washable filter maintains cleaner air, and the portable design, complete with cast handles and wheels, facilitates easy movement.
It features a remote control as well as Surround Smart Sensing technology, so you can utilize Bluetooth to track the surrounding atmosphere and adjust settings automatically. On top of that, the A/C unit’s Eco Real Feel feature targets both temperature and humidity, effectively eliminating muggy discomfort and delivering a pleasant coolness tailored to your preferences. This innovative feature reduces energy consumption by up to 30%. With Arctic Whisper Extreme Technology, this portable air conditioner also operates quieter than previous models, cutting noise by up to 4 dbA.
| Functions: Air conditioner, dehumidifier, fan | Noise Level: Up to 52 dB |
| Wattage: 1,345 watts | Coverage: Up to 700 sq. ft. |
| Cooling Capacity: 14,000 BTU | Filter: Washable air filter |
Finding the best portable air conditioner can make all the difference in cooling your living room, office, bedroom, or even your camping tent. But with so many options out there, how do you know what to look for? This buying guide breaks down the key attributes you need to consider.
First up, cooling capacity. Measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units), this determines how effectively the unit can cool a given space. Higher BTUs mean more cooling power. Assess the square footage of the room you want to cool. For instance, a 10,000 BTU unit can effectively cool a space of up to 300 square feet. It’s essential to choose a unit that matches the size of your room to avoid overworking or underutilizing it. Additionally, take into account the room’s insulation and sunlight exposure, as these factors can impact the cooling efficiency of the unit.
Many portable air conditioners incorporate extra features that expand their utility and convenience. Alongside cooling capabilities, these units often include built-in functions such as a fan and dehumidifier. The fan mode is ideal for increasing airflow on moderately warm days, while the dehumidifier function helps to reduce moisture levels, enhancing comfort in humid conditions and preventing mold growth. Some models also offer a “night mode,” designed to maintain a cool environment quietly during sleep, ensuring uninterrupted rest. These combined functionalities make it easier to maintain comfort throughout the year.
Features like programmable timers allow you to set the air conditioner to turn on or off at specific times, maximizing energy savings. Remote controls provide added convenience, letting you adjust settings without getting up. Some advanced models include smart technology, allowing you to control the unit via smartphone apps. Customizable features offer a tailored cooling experience that meets your specific needs.
Air conditioners can consume a lot of energy, and an energy-efficient model will save you money in the long run. Look for units with an Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) of at least 6. Check for an Energy Star rating as well. This certification guarantees the unit meets strict energy-saving guidelines.
Next, focus on noise levels. Moveable air conditioners can generate significant noise, which may become bothersome, especially in a bedroom or office. Pay attention to the unit’s decibel (dB) rating. A quiet model typically operates under 60 dB, roughly the volume of a normal conversation. Some units come with a “sleep mode” to reduce noise during nighttime. Ensuring a quieter environment enhances comfort and concentration.
Even though it’s called a “portable” air conditioner, some models are easier to move than others. Standing units with caster wheels allow for smoother transitions from one area to another. Built-in handles make for effortless carrying. If you plan to move the unit often, choose a model that is a manageable weight.
The installation process can vary between models. Most compact air conditioners require venting through a window using an included kit. Ensure the unit comes with a comprehensive installation kit that fits your window type and size. Always carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure proper setup and operation of the mobile air conditioner.
Maintenance keeps your portable AC running efficiently. Regular upkeep typically involves cleaning or replacing filters and emptying a water collection tray. Look for units with washable, reusable filters, which cut down on replacement costs. Some models offer self-evaporative technology to reduce the frequency of water drainage. Easy access to parts that require regular maintenance simplifies the upkeep process, extending the unit’s lifespan.
To install a portable air conditioner unit, place it near a window and attach the exhaust hose to the window kit to vent hot air outside. Ensure the hose is securely connected and the window is closed around the kit.
Some models may require manual draining of the water collected from the air, especially in high humidity conditions. Others have an auto-evaporation system that eliminates the need for manual draining.
Regularly clean the air filter by removing it and rinsing it with water. Wipe down the exterior with a damp cloth. Check the exhaust hose and window kit for any obstructions or wear and tear.
Ensure that all doors and windows are closed while the unit is running. Check the air filter for dirt and clean it if necessary.
Yes, it is generally safe to run a portable cooling system overnight. However, for optimal energy savings, use the sleep mode if available, which adjusts the temperature settings for nighttime use.
Check if the unit needs to be drained according to the manual. Ensure it's on a level surface and that the drain is not clogged. If the problem persists, contact customer support.
It is not recommended to use an extension cord with a portable AC due to the high power usage. Always plug the unit directly into a grounded wall outlet to avoid potential safety hazards.
Best Buy Guidebook is a culmination of online publishing lessons learned. From SEO to paid ads, our team has experienced the highest of highs and the lowest of lows. Our goal now is simple: Arm readers with the most information possible.