Sometimes you have a small room that you really really need to cool down and that old room fan just isn’t cutting it anymore. So it’s high time to think about a small portable air conditioner that will maintain the optimal temperature in your room. Designed for a small space, this type of air conditioners can be moved around easily without the need to be attached to windows.
The portable air conditioners work well in many different scenarios. They can be helpful in humid areas where you don’t want to open the windows for fear that you will just make the heat worse, even with a traditional AC unit. They are handy additions in places where climate control systems may not quite be up to the tasks, such as offices, data centers or classrooms. Check out our top picks for the best small portable air conditioners to find out more.
Our Top Picks for the Best Small Portable Air Conditioner
Best Small Portable Air Conditioner Comparison Table
Products (Click on the name for more information) | Pros | Cons |
---|---|---|
Honeywell MO08CESWK Compact Portable Air Conditioner | - Lightweight and compact - Easy to operate and install - Energy-efficient - Quiet operation | - Initial cost could be high as compared to other units in the market |
Whynter ARC-12S 12,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner | - Features an auto-drain technology - Easy to move and install - Energy-efficient - It cools a room quickly - It is capable of trapping particles and removing unpleasant odor | - Poorly designed - Lacks a sleep mode |
SPT 8,000BTU Single Hose Portable AC | - Relatively quiet - Portable and lightweight design - Easy installation - Affordable | - There is no specialized filter for cleaning the air - It has low output, making it unsuitable for large rooms |
BLACK+DECKER BPACT08WT 8000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner | - Efficient cooling - It has easy to remove the filter - Pretty compact and lightweight - Easy to operate and install | - The compressor takes a bit of time to turn on |
LG LP0817WSR 115V Portable Air Conditioner | - Efficient cooling for small spaces - Easy to move - Compact - Auto-restart function - Inexpensive | - A little noise |
EdgeStar AP8000W Ultra Compact Portable Air Conditioner | - 3 year limited warranty - Energy efficient - Eco-friendly - Easy to clean and install - Quiet operation | - Can only cool small rooms - No accessible draining pan |
Honeywell MN10CESBB Portable Air Conditioner | - Sleek design - One of the quietest models on the market - User-friendly control panel and remote control - Easy to move and clean | - EER is slightly below average - Lacks some convenient functions |
Haier HPN12XCM Portable Air Conditioner | - Great dehumidifying functionality - Operates quietly - Lengthy exhaust hose and power cord - Low maintenance - Easy to install | - Heavy - Average warranty - No HEPA filter |
SPT WA-1420E Portable Air Conditioner | - Great for large rooms - Quiet operation - Environment-friendly - Inexpensive | - Heavy - Low energy efficiency |
EdgeStar AP12000S Portable Air Conditioner | - Effective cooling - Energy Efficient - Eco-friendly - Quiet operation | - A bit heavy - Average dehumidifying capacity |
LG Electronics LP0814WNR 115-volt Portable Air Conditioner | - Small and compact - Cooling effective in small spaces - Sleep mode and auto-restart function - Easy to set up and operate | - The exhaust heats up - Only for small spaces |
Global Air 10,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner | - Simple to use - Lightweight and portable - Relatively quiet - Restart delay function - Over cold protection - Inexpensive | - No dehumidify-only mode - Installation is a bit more complicated than other units - Self-evaporating system doesn’t work well |
COSTWAY Portable Air Conditioner | - High performance at an affordable price - Small and portable - Cool a small space quickly - Energy efficient - Easy to install and move around | - The drain hose is not included - Only for small spaces - Fairly loud |
Honeywell MN12CES Portable Air Conditioner | - Sleek design - Powerful cooling - Easy to install - Fairly quiet - Eco-friendly | - Lacks the handles - Short power cord |
Best Small Portable Air Conditioner Reviews
1. Honeywell MO08CESWK Compact Portable Air Conditioner
The Honeywell MO08CESWK is our favorite air conditioner for beating the summer heat. In our testing, it ranked top for quality and performance, and it is the smallest portable air conditioner on our list. The compact size of this particular unit doesn’t diminish its power. In fact, It is Honeywell’s top-of-the-line machine that blasts out 8,000 BTU, it is powerful enough to cool rooms up to 250 square feet. And unlike a fixed window unit, this Honeywell model can be taken with you as you go from the bedroom to the living room to the dinner table.
Are you planning to save some cash by investing in a multipurpose model? If the answer is yes, then this model deserves a consideration since it does a good job with its different functions. It can serve as an air conditioner, a fan or a dehumidifier. You can set things up by running the fan for a while, switch to dehumidifying mode if there is too much humidity and then switch to the air conditioner and cools things down to boot. You can cycle through the modes with the included remote control that has a digital display. With this remote, you can adjust the temperature, air circulation, and humidity in your room from the comfort of your bed or couch.
With some killer dehumidification power and auto evaporation setting, this air conditioning unit will do more than just cool your room. The dehumidifier can remove up to 44 pints of water from the air in any given 24 hour period meaning you don’t have to worry about furniture, rugs, and artwork succumbing to excessive humidity. The auto evaporation system allows for many hours of continuous operation without having to empty a bucket or drain the unit.
Unlike most portable air conditioners, this unit features a filter change-alert which makes it easy to track the performance and efficiency of the A/C unit. In the case where the unit filters are clogged, for example, an alert sign appears on the remote’s display screen and this avoids poor performance and reduces further damage.
Honeywell MO08-CESWK has a rating of 700 watts which converts to less energy consumption, increasing the unit efficiency in the long run. When the fan setting is at its maximum operation and the cooling mode is switched on, this unit runs at 54 dB. This noise level in 3-5 dB quieter than the average A/C unit on the market. This, however, isn’t the quietest air conditioning unit. There are units as quiet as 50 dB when in full-load condition but the pricing could mean making some significant financial adjustments.
With a net weight of 43 pounds and just about 27.7 inches high, 14.6 inches wide, and 13.5 inches deep, this is the lightest among models we reviewed. Which means you don’t have to be an athlete to move this unit from room to room. It also includes high-abrasion, durable casters which make the unit easy to move around the house, as long as your carpet isn’t too thick.
Overall, the Honeywell M008CESWK is an all-rounded, compact and portable air conditioning unit designed to offer the best of functionality in its lightweight design. If you are looking for a mini portable air conditioner that enables you to enjoy cool air in your bedroom, then Honeywell MO08CESWK maybe a good option. It lets you enjoy the convenience of digital control with its 2-speed options, smart-digital humidistat, an energy-saving timer and an easy-to-use remote control with digital display. The auto-evaporative feature spares you the inconvenience of changing the bucket every 3 hours. Additionally, a one-year limited warranty is given upon a successful purchase.
Pros
- Lightweight and compact
- Easy to operate and install
- Energy-efficient
- Quiet operation
Cons
- Initial cost could be high as compared to other units in the market.
2. Whynter ARC-12S 12,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner
The Whynter ARC-12S is a single hose model which is designed to provide you with years of reliable cooling comfort and cost savings. In fact, it is one of the most energy-efficient units we reviewed, with an EER of 11.1.
The best part about this product is that it features the patented auto-drain technology which recycles the collected moisture to produce the cool air. The technology helps to eliminate most of the condensation and enhance the overall efficiency of the system.
The Whynter ARC-12S does an outstanding job transforming your hot, humid room into a cool and dry sanctuary. As a dehumidifier, it’s capable of pulling an astonishing 91.2 pints of moisture from the air every 24 hours. This small portable air conditioner also includes a fan-only mode that offers 3 fan speeds and circulates air in your room without cooling it. Even better, you can switch between these modes and maintain the cooling comfort of your room by simply using a remote control.
The ARC-12S air conditioner has a cooling capacity of 12,000 BTU, making it an ideal option for rooms up to 550 square feet. The unit is capable of handling 188 cubic feet of air per minute (CFM). It’s efficient that cools a right-sized room quickly, though it might take longer to cool your room than stronger, 14,000BTU models like SPT WA-1420E Portable Air Conditioner.
With the weight of 62 pounds, you can easily move this unit from one corner to another one with the help of smooth-gliding casters. While it isn’t as small as some other small portable ACs, it is compact enough that you can store it in a closet during the winter months.
This unit comes with a vent hose to exhaust the warm air outside. As with all portable air conditioners, this cooler will need to be ventilated out a window with the window kit. The kit can be expanded to 46 inches wide to accommodate most windows, while the vent hose can extend up to 5 feet long.
To make sure that the air you breathe is thoroughly cleaned and fresh, this Whynter model is also equipped with 2 types of filters – washable pre-filter and activated carbon filter. While the pre-filter traps airborne particles, the activated carbon filter, which often referred to as charcoal-activated cabin filter, helps to remove any unpleasant smell and other gaseous compounds that can be harmful to one’s body.
The Whynter ARC-12S is quite silent, it produces less than 52.5 decibels, about as loud as a conversation between two or three people. It also includes a 24-hour programmable timer which allows you to set the time that the machine turns on or off, this means you can set it to turn off automatically when you will be out of the home or to turn on an hour before you get home so that you return to an already comfortable home. This feature is incredibly helpful for saving energy.
However, unlike some AC units, this air conditioning unit lacks a sleep mode. This feature is generally designed to give the user comfort during their sleep by gradually raises the temperature every hour as our body requires less cooling while asleep. This feature also helps to conserve energy.
The ARC-12S air conditioner comes with a three-year compressor warranty and one-year warranty coverage on other parts, which matches the average among the units we reviewed.
Pros
- Features an auto-drain technology
- Easy to move and install
- Energy-efficient
- It cools a room quickly
- It is capable of trapping particles and removing unpleasant odor
Cons
- Poorly designed
- Lacks a sleep mode
3. SPT 8,000BTU Single Hose Portable AC
The SPT WA-8070E Single Hose Portable Air Conditioner isn’t the most-efficient air conditioning unit we’ve seen, but with a cooling capacity of 8,000 BTU and a dehumidifying mode, it is a good fit for smaller spaces. So if you are looking for a portable air conditioner that can cool off a smaller space well, then this unit is recommended for rooms up to 300 square feet. And with the modest annual cost, this unit is an affordable option for those who want to cool a small area or in an apartment.
The SPT WA-8070E offers an energy efficiency ratio of 8.9 which is less energy-efficient than the other models we reviewed. However, the unit still saves you money in the long run since its BTU rating is much lower and won’t use as much electricity as a 12,000 BTU unit. To keep it green, the SPT WA-8070E uses eco-friendly R410A refrigerant. This type of refrigerant is made of RoHS compliant components, which means it is free of harmful chemicals, making your home and climate safer.
The SPT WA-8070E features cooling, dehumidifying, and fan modes. While on the cooling mode, the unit automatically dehumidifies the air it circulates. Fan mode is a nice function in case you just want to circulate fresh air in the room. During winter months, to save energy you might want to switch on the fan mode instead of cooling mode. Depending on where you live, the dehumidifying mode can be a blessing. On standard cooling mode, the machine can remove up to 1.9 pints of moisture from the air per hour and into the unit.
This SPT unit produces about 185 cubics of airflow per minute, slightly below the average of 200 CFM. The sound output of the unit is 53.8 decibels, which is relatively quiet. The portable air conditioners on the market that advertise quiet features are usually 54 decibels and below.
The SPT has a lightweight, portable design that allows you to move the unit from place to place as needed. At 51 pounds, it’s one of the lightest portable ACs we reviewed. It is less than 14 inches in width and less than 30 inches in height, making it a good option for compact spaces. Its exhaust hose can be extended to a maximum length of 59 inches, giving the unit more room for air flow into the room. However, the SPT air conditioner only will be able to cool the room that it is currently in. Due to its portable and lightweight design, you can move it to another room if you prefer.
The SPT WA-8070E features indicator lights located on the control panel in order to show the current cooling mode and timer status. It comes with a remote control to adjust the settings from across the room. This portable air conditioner also has washable filters. You can remove the air filters by pulling the filter tab in the rear of the machine. You can also program the machine to turn on or off for up to 24 hours so you can have it turn on automatically before you get home. Like other cooling units, this model also comes with a remote control for easier operation.
The best part about the SPT WA-8070E is that it is equipped with an auto restart function which will restore the previous settings and the air conditioner will operate in the same functions when the power comes back on. This function can be helpful in the situation of the power outage. The SPT WA-8070E also comes with a self-drain system that will automatically drain the water it produced during the cooling process so that you won’t need to drain the water tank now and then.
In conclusion, The SPT WA-8070E Single Hose Portable Air Conditioner is one of the best when it comes to effective and quick cooling of small spaces. It is an excellent choice if you are on a budget. Although it is affordable compared to other units in the same or similar class, it does not lack any important features. Moreover, it comes with a one-year compressor warranty, which is below average.
Pros
- Relatively quiet
- Portable and lightweight design
- Easy installation
- Affordable
Cons
- There is no specialized filter for cleaning the air
- It has low output, making it unsuitable for large rooms
4. BLACK+DECKER BPACT08WT 8000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner Unit
When it comes to quality builds, long-lasting, time-tested products, Black & Decker are among the most trusted of all. With a huge product range, from household appliances such as vacuum cleaners and steam mops to power tools such as chainsaws and drills, along with a range of air conditioning models, they have been manufacturing since 1910.
Black & Decker have been one of America’s top brands for decades. When it comes to building a portable air conditioner, they are among the world leaders. With a keen eye for portability and efficiency aspects, their 8,000 BTU models come out of the gates swinging.
What sets the Black & Decker BPACT08WT portable air conditioner from others is that it has a vertical ventilation system which delivers a substantially better airflow than most competitor units. This allows you to cool off your spaces relatively quickly and maintain a comfortable air flow all over the room.
The noise level is fairly low at just 52.8 decibels, and it has an efficiency rating of EER 8.94. While this unit is not the most efficient portable air conditioner we reviewed, there are very few portable units out there which offer such performance at this price. Besides, there is so much more to look forward to on this well-built machine from Black & Decker.
In terms of cooling capacity, this Black & Decker model can adequately cool a 200-square foot room with its constant stream of cool air. It’s a 3-in-1 portable conditioning unit which operates as an air conditioner, dehumidifier, and fan. In dehumidifier mode, the Black & Decker BPACT08WT can remove up to 3.8 pints of moisture from the air per hour. You can switch the machine on to fan mode and save more in energy costs when your room is cool enough.
The Black & Decker BPACT08WT is packaged into a sleek and lightweight body, which weighs below 53 pounds. Moreover, it comes with rolling casters and side carrying handles so that you can easily roll this 26” tall air conditioning unit around your house, just like you would move a luggage bag. The package also includes a window kit having a max. length of 59 inches and a min. length of 20.5 inches which helps saving some floor space.
The Black & Decker BPACT08WT includes common convenience features such as an easy-to-use LED display, along with the addition of the 24-hour timer which ensures that you experience comfortable temperature all the time without having to worry about the electricity bill. It also has a handy sleep mode which is uncommon among portable units and quite useful. The sleep mode gradually increases the room temperature throughout the night to keep you comfortable. All of its functions are accessible via the onboard soft-touch buttons. It also has a remote control, bringing all the settings right at your fingertips.
Pros
- Efficient cooling
- It has easy to remove the filter
- Pretty compact and lightweight
- Easy to operate and install
Cons
- It produces bright blue display light while running. For those who prefer darkness when sleeping, this light can be disturbing light.
- The compressor takes a bit of time to turn on.
See Price of the Black & Decker BPACT08WT portable air conditioner
5. LG LP0817WSR 115V Portable Air Conditioner
For the price, this mini portable AC is a real catch! The LG LP0817WSR air conditioner is manufactured by LG – one of the large consumer electronics manufacturer in South Korea. Rated at 8,000 BTUs, this LG model is capable of cooling of up to 150 square feet which is quite enough for cooling small livings rooms, or offices. At 27x13x17 inches, the machine is really compact and can easily fit into tight corners. Moreover, the LG LP0817WSR air conditioner comes with most of the convenience functions that you would find in powerful models that cost nearly twice as much.
The unit is capable of both cooling and dehumidifying the environment by removing 1.8 pints of the excess moisture per hour. This feature ensures that either mold nor mildew will appear in your room. Unfortunately, the unit is limited to only two different fan speed settings, but that should not be an issue as long as you select the proper operating mode. However, you will get all the convenience features such as auto restart, 24-hour timer, LED display panel, etc.
With the auto-restart function, the machine will turn on and automatically resume the operation if a power does off. It offers an auto-evaporation system which recycles the condensed water, so you don’t have to worry about emptying out the water tank in normal humidity conditions. Besides that, this single-hose unit is equipped with an auto-swing vent technology to make sure your room is provided with better air circulation without leaving any corner in hot temperature.
Like most portable air conditioners, this unit also comes with a 24-hour timer and thermostat that lets you control the temperature even when you’re not home. An LCD remote is included in the kit and an easy-readable LED panel is placed directly on the top of the machine. It also features a special sleep mode which adjusts the room temperature during the night so that you can enjoy comfortable and uninterrupted sleep. The sleep setting can only be accessed through the remote control.
The LG LP0817WSR air conditioner weighs about 58 pounds and only takes up a very small amount of space. This unit also features easy-roll caster and side carry handles, allowing you to easily move it around your home to keep different rooms comfortable.
If you are looking for a quiet portable air conditioner for your bedroom, it is worth noting that this unit can make the loud sound. Therefore, the LG LP0817WSR is not recommended for spaces that require quietness.
All in all, the LG LP0817WSR air conditioner works efficiently for small rooms. It’s a small portable unit that you can move to where you need it, then roll it back to storage when you’re done with it. Made from high-quality materials, the unit looks really solid and sturdy, so you can expect it to last at least three years. Its affordable price makes it excellent for spot cooling in small rooms, workshops, or garages. So if you cannot afford any of the more expensive small portable units, and only need to cool a small area, this model from LG will work just fine.
Pros
- Efficient cooling for small spaces
- Easy to move
- Compact
- Auto-restart function
- Inexpensive
Cons
- A little noise
6. EdgeStar AP8000W Ultra Compact Portable Air Conditioner
If your bedroom overheats at night and prevents you from getting a good night’s sleep, the EdgeStar AP8000W portable air conditioner can cool things down. It’s ideal for small spaces up to 250 square feet, and the appliance claims can cool a small room down in just 20 minutes, thanks to its three speeds and efficient operation.
The EdgeStar AP8000W is a well-designed portable air conditioner which has three different fan speeds and cooling modes that ensures that your room has the desired environment. It is also very versatile since it can be used in the summer and winter months. This is because the AC has been made to cool a room in the hot days or to dehumidify the room as needed during cold days. It can remove up to 50 pints of moisture a day which is enough unless you live in a location where the air is extremely humid. This EdgeStar model also includes a direct drain option which lets you operate the unit 365 days a year without having to empty condensate tray.
As with other AC units, this EdgeStar model includes a single exhaust hose and a window kit that you attach to an open window to vent the hot exhaust. The hose extends up to 4 feet, meaning you can move the unit away from the window and point it in any direction you’d like. The window kit extends up to 55 inches, so you can use this unit with large windows. This AC model also includes a washable pre-filter which allows you to keep your unit as clean as the air it produces.
The unit measures 19.2 wide and 24.8 inches high, so it will easily fit through any doorway. It weighs about 56 pounds, which is lighter than most portable air conditioners. Its lightweight design and two pairs of casters allow you to move the unit from one room to another effortlessly. It can be a perfect alternative for people who want to cool multiple rooms. So you can use this unit in your living rooms during hot days and in your bedroom at nights. It can really give you back countless nights of sound sleep.
For those who are worrying about dealing with high electricity costs, they can take advantage of using this EdgeStar unit with noticeably low power consumption (Less than $ 1 in energy a day). The EdgeStar AP8000W portable air conditioner claims to have an energy-efficient operation, a programmable timer, an adjustable digital thermostat that helps on energy costs.
It is also important to note that the EdgeStar AP8000W is designed to be Environmentally friendly. Which means this unit uses no ozone-damaging R410A refrigerant. EdgeStar has also followed Eco-friendly standards by using RoHS compliant components that are free of harmful chemicals. Based on the European Union, electronic devices are currently restricted in the amount of harmful toxins that can be used in its operation (i.e. mercury and lead). By using this air conditioning unit, you can feel free to breathe out because you know that it will not affect either your health or the environment.
Pros
- 3 year limited warranty
- Energy efficient
- Eco-friendly
- Easy to clean and install
- Quiet operation
Cons
- Can only cool small rooms
- No accessible draining pan
7. Honeywell MN10CESBB Portable Air Conditioner
Honeywell is a well-recognized name in the home air conditioning industry. The manufacturer has been around a long time, 133 years to be exact – longer even than Black & Decker. Thus, it is no surprise that they have been able to create innovative, efficient, and quiet machines.
Honeywell MN10CESBB Portable Air Conditioner is a great example of the type of cuttings edge and reliable products that the manufacturer produces. It has 10,000 BTU of cooling capacity, which is sufficient for effective cooling of rooms up to 450 square feet. That makes it ideal for use in various places such as living rooms, computer labs, or server rooms.
This attractive black unit features a dehumidifier that is capable of removing moisture in your room at an impressive official rate of 80.1 pints per day. The unit also features a fan-only function. Its fan has an airflow rate of 174 cubic feet per minute which effectively circulates the air in a room. The unit can circulate air at low, medium and high speeds to provide cooling against different levels of heat.
The Honeywell MN10CESBB comes with a 3.9 feet extendable exhaust hose. Since its hose is short, you will need to place this model close to the window so it can release excess air and moisture. This unit also comes with a window venting kit that fits standard windows from 19.7 to 47.25 inches wide. The window vent is non-permanent that allows you to remove it every time the unit is not in use.
This MN10CESBB model weighs 63.9 pounds, which is not the lightest air conditioner on the market. However, if you plan on moving this unit around the home, you will be delighted at how easily the included casters roll.
The air conditioning unit has an auto-evaporation system that removes condensed water, so you won’t have to drain the unit unless you live in a very humid area. Besides, the machine has a washable pre-filter which cleans the air from large floating particles such as dust, pet hair, etc.
Although the MN10CESBB is quite powerful, it is very quiet. In fact, it is one of the quietest 10,000 BTU units that I have come across, operating at only 51 decibels. The low noise level ensures that the unit won’t disturb you even at night and you do not need to turn up the TV volume while staying cool.
The MN10CESBB model includes a full-function remote control which is rather straightforward: a power button, speed buttons, a timer setting, arrow controls, and mode change. It also includes an easy-to-understand LED control panel.
The main downside to this unit is the lack of some convenience features such as an auto-restart function or a sleep mode. This means you will need to reset the machine after a power outage. And because the machine does not have the sleep mode, it cannot adjust the temperature to a comfortable level while you sleep. You can find these missing features on the LG LP0817WSR air conditioner and other models we assessed to be the best small portable AC units.
This model is listed in our reviews because of its compact design, effective cooling, and durability. Moreover, it is of good quality materials and comes with a five-year warranty on the compressor and a one-year warranty on the unit. Unfortunately for a manufacturer that pride itself on energy efficient machine, the MN10CESBB has a fairly low Energy Efficiency Ratio – which is EER 9.5. However, this appliance is still a great option for those who are looking for a small, quiet and efficient machine.
Pros
- Sleek design
- One of the quietest models on the market
- User-friendly control panel and remote control
- Easy to move and clean
Cons
- EER is slightly below average
- Lacks some convenient functions
See Price of the Honeywell MN10CESBB Portable Air Conditioner
8. Haier HPN12XCM Portable Air Conditioner
Moving on to the 12,000 BTU air conditioner, we have the HPN12XCM from Haier – one of the great AC brands in the world. The HPN12XCM unit offers the best combination of portability, cooling comfort, intuitive control, and quiet operation among its competitors.
This single hose portable air conditioner provides 12,000 BTUs of cooling capacity. It can effectively cool most rooms up to 500 square feet, which makes it an excellent option for many small homes or apartments.
Not only the HPN12XCM portable air conditioner keep your room cool, but it can keep it cool with high efficiency. In fact, it has an efficiency rating of EER 9.5. We estimate its annual energy cost at $90.72, based on 8 hours of daily use for 3 months of the year. However, the cost can vary depending on your usage and power costs in your area.
Like most portable AC models, this on provides 3 distinct functions in one convenient unit: air conditioning, dehumidification, and fan. You can use the remote control to switch through these 3 modes. All portable AC units cool a room by pulling moisture from the air, but this particular unit can remove an impressive 100 pints of moisture from the air per day – the highest in our list. This unit has 3 settings for cooling and fan speeds which is a fairly standard feature for most portable air conditioners. Although looked at separately the room-size rating, energy efficiency, and moisture collection are average for the industry, together they make the HPN12XCM a strong contender.
The normal conversation between two people typically has a range of 55 to 60 decibels. In comparison, the HPN12XCM model has the noise level of 55 decibels, even at full blast. With the compressor off and the fan on low, the sound output is 49 decibels, that’s quieter than most oscillating fans. It’s a smooth, consistent background noise even when the compressor operates, making this ideal for light sleepers.
This unit also features an auto evaporation system that removes condensed water for more efficient cooling. However, it’s not a full evaporation system, so if you live in a particularly humid environment, you should expect to drain the water.
Weighing in at just over 74 pounds, this is the heaviest unit we reviewed. However, it is easy to install this unit. You can either place it on a corner of the room with its durable casters or use the window-installation kit that can accommodate a window of 20 up to 46 inches. It also comes with a 5ft exhaust hose which can be easily adjusted to the window for your convenience. The length of the hose is a bit longer than the hoses of other models, which provides versatility to where you can install the machine.
All in all, the HPN12XCM portable air conditioner illustrates how Haier combines from design and performance. It has a modern look that can be mixed and matched with any modern home style. It comes with a 24-hour timer that allows you to create a cooling schedule as well as conserve energy by not running all day. It also has an LED displays which are easy for the eyes to read.
Pros
- Great dehumidifying functionality
- Operates quietly
- Lengthy exhaust hose and power cord
- Low maintenance
- Easy to install
Cons
- Heavy
- Average warranty
- No HEPA filter
9. SPT WA-1420E Portable Air Conditioner
If you are looking for a powerful yet affordable portable air conditioner for your room, then the SPT WA-1420E may be what you’re looking for. It is characterized by user-friendliness and more cheaper than other 14,000 units.
When it comes to cooling power, the product description states that this portable air conditioner is capable of cooling up to 700 square feet with 14,000 BTU. But some users claim that the unit cools a smaller space than indicated. In fact, some reviewers have indicated that the product can only handle up to 550 square feet.
In addition to cooling, it also features a dehumidifying mode and a fan-only mode. If you live in a humid climate, this model is well-suited for making your room a bit more comfortable. With the remote’s simple layout, it’s easy to switch from air conditioning to dehumidify to fan-only mode. In case you just want to remove excess moisture from the air, you can switch to the dehumidify-only mode. Like most other AC unit, the SPT has 3 fan speeds (low, medium, and high) to achieve and maintain your comfort level. The speed of the fan can be controlled from the control panel. You can also control the speed by using a remote control.
We also like the fact that this unit is not only powerful at cooling, but also eco-friendly. It uses non-ozone-depleting refrigerant – R410A and is made with all RoHS compliant components, signifying it meets industry standard for health and environment. On the plus side, this unit has an energy efficiency ratio of 8.9 ERR. Compared to the average among the energy efficiency units we reviewed, which is 9.5, the SPT model’s energy efficiency is relatively low. This means running this machine may cost you a bit more than others. However, the SPT WA-1420E operates at a fairly quiet 56 dbA, which is quite impressive for an air conditioner of this size and power.
As the machine comes with a self-evaporative system which can recycle the water it collects as condensate into additional cooling power. However, this is not a full evaporation system, if you live in a very humid area, you might need to remove some water or install a drain hose.
Overall, the SPT WA-1420E is based on a 3-in-1 technology to ensure your room has the desired environment. This eco-friendly air conditioner offers many convenience features such as a self-evaporative system, programmable timer, and digital display. The auto-restart feature ensures that the unit stays on after a power cut. Additionally, you can use the 24-hour timer to tell the SPT WA-1420E when to turn on or turn off at certain times of day without you needing to take any effort. SPT also includes auto-swinging louvers for those who don’t like having all the cool air focused on one spot. How useful this is will depend on your area, but it’s good to have the option.
Pros
- Great for large rooms
- Quiet operation
- Environment-friendly
- Inexpensive
Cons
- Heavy
- Low energy efficiency
10. EdgeStar AP12000S Portable Air Conditioner
If heat is just killing you, it’s time to stop this with the EdgeStar AP12000S air conditioner! Most AC units have tradeoffs, the most common being sacrificing energy efficiency for performance. This is definitely not the case with the EdgeStar AP12000S. This is a balanced unit that is not only powerful at cooling, but also energy-efficient and feature-rich.
Although not as powerful as the SPT WA-1420E, this unit can produce consistent airflow with enough power to contribute to the steady airflow of 169 cubic feet per minute. Boasting 12000 BTU capacity, the unit can instantly cool rooms down up to 425 square feet.
The EdgeStar AP12000S is designed to serve as a fan, a dehumidifier or simply as an air conditioner. It works as a dehumidifier with a dehumidifying capacity of up to 78 pints per day. Another great thing about this particular unit is that you have the choice of using it as a dehumidifier alone or you can have both functions working simultaneously. With the advantage of being used as a dehumidifier, the EdgeStar AP12000S portable air conditioner comes with a direct drain option so that the machine may continuously expel the water into a nearby drain in your area negating the need to manually empty the collecting bucket.
Despite its good performance, this EdgeStar model is one of the most efficient models we reviewed. This 12000 BTU unit has an impressive EER of 10 – which is the second-most efficient model among the units we reviewed, meaning it consumes significantly less energy than others in its class. Furthermore, this machine is an environment – friendly portable air conditioner as it uses no ozone-damaging R410A refrigerant and meets new RoHS standard. The RoHS directive aims to restrict certain dangerous substances commonly used in electronic equipment such as mercury, lead, and cadmium.
Just like some models reviewed earlier, this machine comes with an auto-drain system which means you will no longer have to manually drain the condensate in the slightly humid environment. However, under highly-humid climates, the unit still requires some water removal here and there. That’s because the water collected faster than the patented system could drain it.
The SPT WA-1420E portable air conditioner generates 56 decibels of noise, while this unit produces 53 decibels. How much of a difference do two decibels make? Well, not a whole lot if you plan to use this in a computer server room or a basement. However, the decreased noise output really masters in living rooms, bedrooms, or offices. If you are unfamiliar with how decibels work, the decibel scale is logarithmic. Basically, for every 3 dB increase, you’re adding 50% of your remaining sound pressure levels to your exposure. So even that small decrease of 3 decibels is perceivable if you place both SPT WA-1420E and EdgeStar AP12000S side-by-side in a relatively quiet living space.
Additionally, the EdgeStar AP12000S includes a washable pre-filter and one replaceable carbon filter, giving it some air purification capabilities. It also comes with a window kit that is simple to install.
Pros
- Effective cooling
- Energy Efficient
- Eco-friendly
- Quiet operation
Cons
- A bit heavy
- Average dehumidifying capacity
11. LG Electronics LP0814WNR 115-volt Portable Air Conditioner
LG is a giant in the world of portable air conditioners, and the LG Electronics LP0814WNR is a good pick for anyone who needs to cool a small space. This portable machine is engineered to provide a cooling capacity of 8000 BTU. According to LG, the unit is suitable for a room up to 200 square feet. However, our opinion is that it is ideal for space with a maximum area of 150 square feet.
Although not a good option for large spaces, this model can definitely work well in bedrooms, cubicles, and libraries. Its 180 CFM ultra-powerful air flow circulates the air evenly across the room to ensure optimal cooling effect.
The unit weighs just over 47 pounds, it is lighter than most portable air conditioners. It features caster wheels, making it easy to move from room to room as needed. In addition, the design of this unit eliminates the need for permanent installation. The unit doesn’t look half bad either, the white color and sleek styling give it an elegant modern look that will blend in well with any modern decor.
Although the air conditioner doesn’t have automatic louvers, it features 4-way air direction so that you can manually adjust the direction of the air both vertically and horizontally. The unit features a dehumidifier which has a capacity of 2 pints per hour. It has an auto cooling setting that lets you pre-set the portable air conditioner to your desired temperature.
This mini air conditioner allows you to choose between the two fan speeds. If you operate the LG LP0814WNR at highest fan speed, it will generate close to 55 decibels of noise, which is noticeable as a light rainfall.
The LG LP0814WNR air conditioner has most of the features you’d expect on bigger models. First, it utilizes a smart auto evaporation system which eliminates the need for regular emptying of the condensate so you can enjoy the continuous comfort of cold air. It also comes with an auto-restart function which is handy if you encounter a temporary power failure. It will automatically restart itself once power has been restored.
There is a sleep mode which increases the temperature by 1 degree Fahrenheit every 2 hours to ensure the user comfort and help lower energy usage during night hours. Additionally, the unit comes with a 24-hour timer that you don’t need to leave your bed in the middle of the night to turn your machine off. The delay timer can be set in 1-hour increments from 1-24 hours. LG has designed the controls on this unit to be easy to operate. The included remote control gives you the ability to access all the features of your machine from pretty much anywhere in the room.
All in all, this model has a nice balance between appearance and functionality. It is suitable for those who want to a cooling unit that is simple, effective, elegant while still being affordable.
Pros
- Small and compact
- Cooling effective in small spaces
- Sleep mode and auto-restart function
- Easy to set up and operate
Cons
- The exhaust heats up
- Only for small spaces
12. COSTWAY Portable Air Conditioner
Finally, we have the last small portable air conditioner on this list – the portable air conditioner from COSTWAY. The company was founded in 2008 with a commitment to provide customers with affordable options in every department. Although COSTWAY is younger than Whynter, it still grows into such a large company because of their cost-effectiveness.
The COSTWAY portable air conditioner hits a sweet spot when it comes to affordability, portability, and aesthetics. However, with the savings on cost comes with a significant drawback, in that it can only manage an area of up to 161 square feet, which is not a lot. Even so, we have listed the COSTWAY unit on this report since it does a great job in small areas and provides savings on both the unit and running costs. It is relatively energy efficient with an EER rating of 8.9.
The COSTWAY portable air conditioner comes in the dimensions of 12” x 13” x 24.5” (W x D x H). And it weighs only at 46 lbs which is something users find convenient. They talk about how easy it is to mode the AC from one place to another and utilize it to the max. Also, this unit comes with 4 caster wheels which means you can easily roll it from room to room without damaging the surface. You can use this machine comfortably in dorm rooms, small apartments, RVs and anywhere that you think you may have limited space. This unit is not only apt for the small spaces but also is very elegant and smooth to the eye.
Like most of the portable AC units, this model comes with different functions such as cooling, dehumidifying, fan and sleep mode. It boasts two-way fans that circulate the air in a more efficient manner for even cooling. Hot spots and drafts are eliminated with this feature. There are two-speed settings for more flexibility in how you can cool your room. However, the unit can get loud when you have the fan speed set to the high setting. Every mode and setting is easily accessible via an LED display panel. It also includes a remote control that you will have the machine set to whatever feature you like with a click of a button from across the room.
The COSTWAY portable air conditioner has some great features like the water-level check, water-full warning, the intelligent temp sensor and the 24-hour on/off timer which allows you to set the exact times you want your machine to turn on or off during the day. It includes an auto-condensate circle to more efficiently remove and recycle the moisture of your room. The filter slides out and can be rinsed under a faucet for you to have fresh and cool air constantly.
You will get a window kit to help you out with the easy assembly and a single exhaust hose that can extend between 11” to 5’ length. However, it does not come with a drain hose. You will either have to buy the drain hose separately to prevent the water mist accumulating, or you will have to place a drip pan under the draining vent. If you forget to empty the drip pan, you will find your floors to be soaked and damaged over time.
Overall, If you’re just looking for a basic portable air conditioner for your small spaces, then the COSTWAY portable AC maybe for you. It really isn’t much different from the previous products on this list, but it does cool a small space quickly and cost-effectively.
Pros
- High performance at an affordable price
- Small and portable
- Cool a small space quickly
- Energy efficient
- Easy to install and move around
Cons
- The drain hose is not included
- Only for small spaces
- Fairly loud
13. Global Air 10,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner
If you have the large master bedroom, this Global Air portable air conditioner can handle it – the 10,000 BTU unit can cool down spaces up to 400 square feet. This unit is a very basic portable air conditioner – meaning it doesn’t have all the bells and whistles of some of the more advanced units but it still does a good job on cooling the room. That said, if you are into plug-and-play technology or are on a tight budget, this small portable AC may be for you.
The Global Air portable air conditioner offers two-speed cooling and fan, unlike most of the other units that offer three speeds. The airflow can be adjusted in 4 directions to gives evenly spread air throughout the room, so your entire room will get an even cool in a matter of 30 minutes. The wind from the unit blows upward and also has an anti-frozen feature under cooling. When it comes to noise level, light sleepers will enjoy how quietly this Global Air unit operates. With minimal noise, you won’t be kept awake all night by a whirring sound.
With a weight of 54 pounds, this Global model is one of the most lightweight units in its class. Additionally, the unit comes with smooth-gliding casters which makes it extremely easy to move from room to room. When fully assembled, the units measure 17 inches by 13 inches by 31.3 inches, making it compact and an accommodating addition to any space.
Like most portable units, the Global Air unit incorporates a few convenient features. First, the control panel is located on the top of the unit and has a very straightforward LED readout. It has a remote control, handy for controlling the air conditioner from across the room. It also comes with an over cold protection and optional active carbon filters. You will also appreciate the inclusion of the restart delay function that the unit will restart automatically in case of power shut off, delay function is of 3 minutes.
The main issue with this Global Air model is that its self-evaporative system does not work as well as advertised and the water tank will need to be emptied about every 12 hours. In highly-humid weather, this can be pretty often! So if the self-evaporative system is important in your choice of the portable air conditioner, you should consider other options such as the LG LP0817WSR model.
The unit does come with a one-year warranty – just in case there are any problems. Overall, the Global Air portable air conditioner is a very simple design that does most things fairly well. It does not cool as much as large space, or as efficiently as other powerful models. But for people who are looking for an affordable option or simply need a basic cooler, then this unit will get your space cool reasonably well and cost-effectively.
Pros
- Simple to use
- Lightweight and portable
- Relatively quiet
- Restart delay function
- Over cold protection
- Inexpensive
Cons
- No dehumidify-only mode
- Installation is a bit more complicated than other units
- Self-evaporating system doesn’t work well
14. Honeywell MN12CES Portable Air Conditioner
The Honeywell MN12CES portable air conditioner is the final of the three Honeywell models discussed in this review. As mentioned above, Honeywell is an extremely old manufacturer. In its 133 years, it has had the time to innovate and perfect electronics design. The fact that three of its air conditioning units made it onto our lists tells you a lot about the quality of Honeywell’s products.
This Honeywell MN12CES model has a massive cooling capacity of 12,000 BTUs that lets the unit cool a 500 square foot room in a matter of 15 minutes. However, the effectiveness of the machine can sometimes be affected by the design of your space more so it space features large ventilation or openings.
Besides cooling, this particular model can be used as a dehumidifier to remove up to 79.2 pints every 24 hours. Add to this the fan only mode and you have an all-around machine that will keep the air indoors at a comfortable level all summer. The unit has 3 fan speeds: Low, Medium, and High. The 3-speed fan provides the maximum airflow of 163 cubic feet per minute.
During our MN12CES review testing, we found it to deliver the advertised powerful airflow and, for the most part, quiet operation of 54 dbA. Therefore, if you want a portable air conditioner that doesn’t keep you up at night, this model will be a great choice. Honeywell MN12CES also uses an auto-evaporation system so that you don’t have to manually drain the condensate every few days.
As would be expected from Honeywell, this model is aesthetically pleasing. With its two-toned black-and-silver design, it will add a touch of class to any room in the home or office. This stylish unit has dimensions are fairly small when compared with some other portable ACs, with measurements of 15.7 x 16.5 x 29.3 inches. It weighs in at just over 68 pounds and the lack of handles makes it difficult to carry the unit up and down stairs. But you can easily carry it from one room to another and continue enjoying a comfortable temperature. This is helped by four solid casters at the bottom to cart around between rooms.
Like other portable ACs, this unit comes with an easy-to-install window venting kit that reaches up to 47.2 inches, so you can attach the vent to small or midsize windows. Its vent hose extends up to less than 4 feet so you will need to place the machine no more than 4 feet from the window used for installation. The length of the power cord is only 3 feet which is a bit disappointing since it can limit the locations where you can install it.
If you’re environmentally conscious, you will be glad to know this unit uses the R410A refrigerant which is ozone friendly. Moreover, the unit also features a timer which allows you to run the machine only when it’s needed instead of all day and night. This means the unit helps you save energy in your home as well as reduce your AC bills over summer.
Pros
- Sleek design
- Powerful cooling
- Easy to install
- Fairly quiet
- Eco-friendly
Cons
- Lacks the handles
- Short power cord
Read More: Best Quiet Air Conditioner Reviews 2019