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10 Best Air Conditioners 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

BLACK+DECKER Smart Portable Air Conditioner with Heat, 14,000 BTU Cooling, 12,000 BTU Heating for Rooms up to 700 Sq. Ft., Follow Me Remote, BPACT14HWT, White

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,271
Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Noise Level

Most important from
50299 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTU)
The BLACK+DECKER unit easily cools a room in a few minutes and maintains a comfortable temperature all day.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
This machine is more efficient than previous models owned, providing good cooling in summer and heating in winter.
Noise Level
This air conditioner is much quieter than previous units owned, making it possible to have phone conversations without needing to turn it off.

The BLACK+DECKER Smart Portable Air Conditioner with Heat offers a solid cooling capacity of 14,000 BTU ASHRAE (10,000 BTU DOE), which is suitable for rooms up to 700 sq. ft. This makes it a good fit for medium to large-sized rooms. Additionally, it has a 12,000 BTU heating capacity, allowing it to be used year-round. The unit functions as a dehumidifier and fan, adding to its versatility.

The energy efficiency ratio (SEER) of 6.2 is relatively low, indicating higher energy consumption compared to more efficient models. It's important to note that this model is not Energy Star rated, which means it might not be the most cost-effective option over time for energy savings. The noise level is 54 dB, which is moderate and may be noticeable in quieter environments but should be acceptable for most users. The air conditioner is portable, making it easy to move around as needed.

Additional features include smart connectivity with Wi-Fi, app control, and voice commands via Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant, which add convenience. The 'Follow Me' remote control is another useful feature, allowing for more precise temperature control. The product includes an easy-to-install window kit for setup. Weighing 35 pounds and having compact dimensions, it should be manageable for most people to handle. Assembly is required, which might be a minor inconvenience for some users. This BLACK+DECKER unit is a versatile and convenient option, especially for those looking for a portable and smart-controlled air conditioner with heating capabilities, despite its higher energy consumption.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,271
Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Noise Level

Most important from
50299 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTU)
The BLACK+DECKER unit easily cools a room in a few minutes and maintains a comfortable temperature all day.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
This machine is more efficient than previous models owned, providing good cooling in summer and heating in winter.
Noise Level
This air conditioner is much quieter than previous units owned, making it possible to have phone conversations without needing to turn it off.
#2

BLACK+DECKER Smart Portable Air Conditioner, 14,000 BTU for Rooms up to 700 Sq. Ft., Smart Portable AC with Follow Me Remote and Window Kit, BPACT14WT, White

Rating
9.8
Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Noise Level

Most important from
50299 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Delivers powerful cooling quickly, maintaining comfortable temperatures without running constantly.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Energy efficiency is moderate, but the unit cycles on and off effectively to reduce power consumption compared to older models.
Noise Level
Operates noticeably quieter than many comparable units, allowing for phone calls and work without disruption.
Type of Air Conditioner
The one-hose design with a secure locking connector prevents the hose from detaching, avoiding hot air leakage.
Additional Features
Smart features and app control provide convenient temperature adjustments and enhance usability.

The BLACK+DECKER Smart Portable Air Conditioner is a solid choice for cooling rooms up to 700 square feet, thanks to its 14,000 BTU cooling capacity. This makes it suitable for medium to large bedrooms or living areas. It offers a three-in-one design, working as an air conditioner, dehumidifier, and fan, which adds versatility for different weather conditions. The unit includes a washable filter and uses the environmentally friendly R-32 refrigerant.

Energy efficiency is moderate, with a SEER rating of 6.2, which means it won’t be the cheapest to run but performs reasonably well compared to similar models. Noise level sits at 54 dB, which is about as loud as a normal conversation—noticeable but not overly disruptive, so it can work well in bedrooms or offices. A strong point is the smart features: you can control this AC via an app or voice commands through Alexa and Google Assistant, which is handy for convenient temperature adjustments. The "Follow Me" remote acts as a mobile thermostat, helping maintain more precise comfort where you actually are in the room.

Installation is user-friendly with an included window kit and exhaust hose, meaning you can set it up without professional help. The unit is portable, though it weighs over 60 pounds, so moving it around frequently might be a bit cumbersome. One drawback is that while the advertised cooling capacity is 14,000 BTU ASHRAE, the effective cooling (SACC) is 10,200 BTU, which is important to note for very hot climates or larger spaces. Additionally, the 1-year limited warranty is standard but somewhat short, so consider this if long-term durability is a priority. This BLACK+DECKER portable AC suits users needing smart, flexible cooling for medium-sized rooms, combining decent power with helpful modern features. It might not be the quietest or most energy-efficient option, but its ease of use and versatility make it a practical choice for many.

Rating
9.8
Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Noise Level

Most important from
50299 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Delivers powerful cooling quickly, maintaining comfortable temperatures without running constantly.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Energy efficiency is moderate, but the unit cycles on and off effectively to reduce power consumption compared to older models.
Noise Level
Operates noticeably quieter than many comparable units, allowing for phone calls and work without disruption.
Type of Air Conditioner
The one-hose design with a secure locking connector prevents the hose from detaching, avoiding hot air leakage.
Additional Features
Smart features and app control provide convenient temperature adjustments and enhance usability.
#3

Midea 8,000 BTU Smart Inverter Air Conditioner Window Unit with Heat and Dehumidifier – Cools up to 350 Sq. Ft., Energy Star Rated, Quiet Operation, Electronic Controls, Remote Control, White

Rating
9.7
Noise Level
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Cooling Capacity (BTU)

Most important from
16745 reviews

Noise Level
The unit operates extremely quietly, making it barely noticeable even on the highest fan speed or turbo mode.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Its inverter technology delivers impressive energy efficiency, consuming no more than 400 watts during heating or cooling at maximum settings.
Cooling Capacity (BTU)
This model provides a solid balance of cooling, heating, and energy savings for medium-sized rooms up to 350 square feet, making it a worthy investment given its price.
Type of Air Conditioner
The built-in heat pump effectively maintains consistent temperatures and controls humidity, ideal for specialized rooms like fish tanks.
Additional Features
The heating function is limited by outdoor temperatures, with optimal operation above 41°F; below that, the unit may shut down unless updated firmware enables a defrost cycle.

The Midea 8,000 BTU Smart Inverter Window Air Conditioner is a solid choice for cooling and heating rooms up to 350 square feet. Its inverter technology helps it cool efficiently while using less energy, which is supported by its Energy Star rating and a high SEER of 14.5. This means it can save you money on electricity compared to standard units. It’s also quieter than many air conditioners, operating at about 45 decibels, so it won’t disturb your work, TV time, or sleep. The unit includes multiple modes like heat, cool, dry, fan, and auto, plus three fan speeds, making it adaptable to different comfort needs. You can control it via LED panel, remote, smartphone app, or even voice commands through Alexa or Google Assistant, which adds convenience.

The built-in heat pump is a nice bonus for cooler months but works best when outdoor temperatures are above 41°F. Installation fits standard double-hung windows with specific size requirements, so measuring your window beforehand is important. The heating function’s limitation in colder climates might restrict its usefulness year-round if you live somewhere very cold. Also, while energy efficient, its 8,000 BTU capacity is best suited for medium-sized rooms rather than larger spaces. The washable filter is easy to maintain, but the unit’s weight (56 pounds) might require two people for installation. If you want a versatile, quiet, and energy-saving window air conditioner that also heats, this Midea model covers those bases well.

Rating
9.7
Noise Level
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Cooling Capacity (BTU)

Most important from
16745 reviews

Noise Level
The unit operates extremely quietly, making it barely noticeable even on the highest fan speed or turbo mode.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Its inverter technology delivers impressive energy efficiency, consuming no more than 400 watts during heating or cooling at maximum settings.
Cooling Capacity (BTU)
This model provides a solid balance of cooling, heating, and energy savings for medium-sized rooms up to 350 square feet, making it a worthy investment given its price.
Type of Air Conditioner
The built-in heat pump effectively maintains consistent temperatures and controls humidity, ideal for specialized rooms like fish tanks.
Additional Features
The heating function is limited by outdoor temperatures, with optimal operation above 41°F; below that, the unit may shut down unless updated firmware enables a defrost cycle.

Buying Guide for the Best Air Conditioners

Choosing the right air conditioner can significantly impact your comfort and energy bills. The key is to understand your needs and match them with the right specifications. Here are some important factors to consider when selecting an air conditioner.
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 an air conditioner with too low a BTU rating won't cool the room effectively, while one with too high a rating will cool the room too quickly without removing humidity, leading to a clammy feeling. To choose the right BTU, consider the size of the room: small rooms (up to 150 sq. ft.) need around 5,000-6,000 BTU, medium rooms (150-300 sq. ft.) need 7,000-8,000 BTU, and large rooms (300-450 sq. ft.) need 10,000-12,000 BTU. For very large spaces, you may need 14,000 BTU or more.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)The Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) measures how efficiently an air conditioner uses energy to cool a room. A higher EER means better energy efficiency, which can lead to lower electricity bills. EER is calculated by dividing the BTU rating by the unit's wattage. Look for air conditioners with an EER of 10 or higher for good efficiency. If you prioritize energy savings and environmental impact, aim for the highest EER you can find within your desired cooling capacity.
Noise LevelNoise level, measured in decibels (dB), indicates how loud the air conditioner will be when operating. This is important for maintaining a comfortable and quiet environment, especially in bedrooms or living rooms. Air conditioners typically range from 40 dB (quiet) to 60 dB (moderate noise). If you are sensitive to noise or plan to use the unit in a quiet space, look for models with a noise level of 50 dB or lower.
Type of Air ConditionerThere are several types of air conditioners, including window units, portable units, split systems, and central air conditioning. Window units are easy to install and suitable for single rooms. Portable units offer flexibility and can be moved between rooms but may be less efficient. Split systems provide efficient cooling for multiple rooms and are quieter but require professional installation. Central air conditioning is ideal for cooling an entire home but involves higher installation costs. Choose the type based on your cooling needs, installation preferences, and whether you need to cool one room or multiple areas.
Additional FeaturesModern air conditioners come with various additional features that can enhance convenience and comfort. These may include programmable timers, remote controls, sleep modes, energy-saving modes, and smart connectivity for control via smartphone apps. Consider which features are important to you. For example, a programmable timer can help you save energy by cooling the room only when needed, while smart connectivity allows for remote operation and monitoring.

FAQ