Rici Root

Written by Rici Root

Published: 03 Feb 2024

Camryn Rabideau

Reviewed by Camryn Rabideau

9-best-portable-air-conditioner
Source: Thisoldhouse.com

When the summer heat becomes unbearable, a portable air conditioner can be a lifesaver. 9 Best Portable Air Conditioner models are designed to provide effective cooling without the need for complex installations. These units are easily movable from room to room, making them a convenient option for those who need a flexible cooling solution. Whether you're looking to cool a small bedroom or a larger living space, these portable air conditioners offer a range of features to suit your needs. Let's take a closer look at some of the top-rated models available on the market.

Top Picks:

Overall Score: 9/10

The ZAFRO Portable Air Conditioner is a powerful 3-in-1 unit designed to cool, dehumidify, and provide fan modes for spaces up to 700 square feet. With a 14000 BTU cooling capacity and a 24-hour timer, it offers convenience and efficiency. The unit is easy to move and clean, featuring a hidden handle, universal wheels, and a detachable air filter. Additionally, it operates quietly in sleep mode and ensures uniform air distribution. The specifications include a sleek white color and dimensions of 15.35Lx17.60Wx31.30H.

Key Features

  • 3-in-1 Function & Portable Life: 14000 BTU cooling, dehumidification, and 3 fan speeds
  • 14000 BTU Power Cooling & 24 Hour Timer: Efficient compressor for 700 Sq. Ft. with temperature and timer control
  • Easy to Move & Easy to Clean: Hidden handle, universal wheels, and reusable air filter for convenience and cleanliness
  • Sleep Mode & Low Noise: Quiet operation with sleep mode and low noise levels
  • Quick Cool & Uniform Air Outlet: Air outlet baffle with automatic swing for uniform air distribution

Specifications

  • Color: White
  • Dimension: 15.35Lx17.60Wx31.30H
  • Size: 14000BTU

Pros

  • Powerful 14000 BTU cooling capacity
  • Convenient 3-in-1 functionality
  • Quiet operation with low noise levels
  • Easy to move and clean

Cons

  • May require frequent filter cleaning

The ZAFRO Portable Air Conditioner offers impressive cooling power, versatility, and convenience. With its 3-in-1 functionality, quiet operation, and easy mobility, it stands out as a top choice for cooling larger spaces. The only minor downside is the need for regular filter maintenance. Overall, it’s a highly recommended option for those seeking efficient and effective portable air conditioning.

Overall Score: 7/10

The Whirlpool 8,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner is a powerful 3-in-1 unit designed for cooling, dehumidifying, and fan operation. It's suitable for small rooms up to 350 square feet with 3 fan speeds, 3 cooling speeds, and a 24-hour programmable timer. The unit features a bucketless design, washable filter, and easy portability with rolling casters and side handles for movement. With a color in white and dimensions of 15.16Lx18.70Wx27.90H, it's a convenient and efficient cooling solution for apartments and bedrooms. While reviewers have noted its effectiveness, some have mentioned the unit being noisy and the need for regular emptying of the water pan.

Key Features

  • Powerful 3-in-1 cooling, dehumidifying, and fan operation
  • Suitable for small rooms up to 350 sq. ft.
  • 3 fan speeds, 3 cooling speeds, and a 24-hour programmable timer
  • Bucketless design and washable filter
  • Easy portability with rolling casters and side handles

Specifications

  • Color: White
  • Dimension: 15.16Lx18.70Wx27.90H
  • Size: Up to 350 sq. ft.

Pros

  • Easy to set up and use
  • Cools effectively and balances room temperatures
  • Convenient and efficient

Cons

  • Can be noisy
  • Requires regular emptying of the water pan

The Whirlpool 8,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner offers powerful cooling, easy portability, and efficient operation for small rooms. While it may have some noise and maintenance issues, it remains a convenient and effective solution for residential cooling needs.

Overall Score: 7/10

The Evapolar evaCHILL is a 3-in-1 portable air cooler, mini AC unit, and humidifier. It uses natural evaporative cooling to efficiently cool personal space, making it an ideal solution for hot, dry climates. It is energy-efficient, cost-saving, and 100% safe for breathing. The portable and whisper-quiet design allows for hassle-free use anywhere, from the office to camping trips.

Key Features

  • 3-IN-1 COOLING – Evapolar eva CHILL cools & humidifies the air
  • NATURAL PERSONAL COOLING – Ideal for hot, dry climates.
  • ENERGY-EFFICIENT & COST-SAVING – Consumes only 10W.
  • 100% SAFE FOR BREATHING – Based on natural evaporative cooling
  • PORTABLE –- Portable and whisper-quiet design.

Specifications

  • Color: Ocean Blue
  • Dimension: 7.00Lx7.00Wx7.00H

Pros

  • Efficiently cools personal space
  • Energy-efficient & cost-saving
  • Portable and whisper-quiet design
  • 100% safe for breathing

Cons

  • May not work well in humid climates
  • Water needs to be added frequently
  • Drips if not on a stable surface
  • Filters need to be changed regularly

The Evapolar evaCHILL is a convenient and efficient solution for personal cooling in hot, dry climates. Its energy-efficient, cost-saving design makes it a favorable choice for users looking to cool their personal space without relying on traditional air conditioning units.

Overall Score: 7/10

The Whynter ARC-110WD Portable Air Conditioner efficiently cools, dehumidifies, and provides cleaner air for rooms up to 350 sq ft. With a powerful and quiet 11,000 BTU capacity, it features advanced self-evaporation, multi-functional and energy-saving capabilities, easy setup and portability, as well as cleaner air with activated carbon and washable pre-filters.

Key Features

  • 11,000 BTU capacity with <56 d BA noise level
  • Advanced self-evaporation with 81 pints per day dehumidifying capacity
  • Four operational modes with full thermostatic control
  • Extendable exhaust and intake hose with window kit
  • Activated Carbon Air Filter and Washable Pre-filter

Specifications

  • Color: White
  • Dimension: 15.40Lx17.30Wx30.50H
  • Size: 11,000

Pros

  • Powerful and quiet cooling
  • Easy to install and portable
  • Cleans the air and dehumidifies effectively

Cons

  • Reports of possible engineering and durability issues
  • Could be noisy for some users

The Whynter ARC-110WD Portable Air Conditioner offers a powerful yet quiet cooling solution with additional dehumidifying and air cleaning benefits. While some concerns about durability and noise have been raised, it remains a practical and affordable option for cooling rooms up to 350 sq ft.

Overall Score: 7/10

The Whynter ARC-14S Portable Air Conditioner is an award-winning, powerful and quiet cooling unit that is perfect for rooms up to 500 square feet. It has advanced self-evaporation, multi-functional and energy-saving features, and is easy to set up and portable. The unit includes a storage bag and comes in a elegant Platinum/Black color.

Key Features

  • AWARD-WINNING: Good Housekeeping's 2023 'BEST OVERALL PORTABLE AIR CONDITIONER'
  • POWERFUL & QUIET: 14,000 BTU (ASHRAE) / 9,500 BTU (SACC) cooling capacity
  • ADVANCED SELF-EVAPORATION: Dual hose operation; Dehumidifying capacity: 71 pints per day
  • MULTI-FUNCTIONAL & ENERGY SAVING: Three operational modes; Full thermostatic control
  • EASY TO SETUP & PORTABLE: Extendable exhaust hose; Window kit dimension: 6.5' W x 20' L

Specifications

  • Color: Platinum/Black
  • Dimension: 19.00Lx16.00Wx35.50H

Pros

  • Powerful cooling over large areas
  • Three operational modes for versatility
  • Easy to set up and portable

Cons

  • May trip circuit multiple times a day
  • Possible ice accumulation issues

The Whynter ARC-14S Portable Air Conditioner is a powerful and versatile cooling unit that is perfect for large areas. While it may have some minor issues, its overall performance and customer service make it a reliable option for staying cool in hot weather.

Overall Score: 7/10

Stay cool and comfortable all summer with this compact 14,000 BTU portable air conditioner. Perfect for small rooms, easy to install, 3-in-1 functionality, and easy to use and clean.

Key Features

  • Quiet & Powerful
  • Perfect for small rooms
  • Simple & Quick to install
  • Easy to use & Clean
  • 3-In-1 Functionality

Specifications

  • Color: White
  • Dimension: 17.32Lx27.20Wx13.20H
  • Size: 14,000 BTU

Pros

  • Quiet operation
  • Provides fast, effective cooling
  • Easy to install and use
  • 3-in-1 functionality

Cons

  • Temperature sensor issues
  • Faulty unit experiences reported
  • Issues with warranty service

The BLACK+DECKER 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner offers powerful, quiet cooling for small rooms. It may have some minor issues, but overall, it is a solid product.

Overall Score: 7/10

The ZAFRO 10,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner is a powerful cooling unit suitable for rooms up to 450 sq.ft. It offers 3-in-1 modes, easy installation, low noise, and a washable air filter. With a compact size, it's ideal for various spaces. While it has received positive reviews for its performance and efficiency, some users have noted issues with noise and leaks. Overall, it's a convenient solution for cooling smaller spaces or serving as a backup in case of AC failure.

Key Features

  • 10,000 BTU powerful cooling & energy-saving
  • 3-in-1 modes & easy to operate
  • Sleep mode & low noise
  • Washable air filter
  • Easy to install & move
  • Portable size design
  • Customer service commitment

Specifications

  • Color: White
  • Dimension: 13.00Lx11.00Wx27.00H
  • Size: 10,000 BTU+Drain Hose

Pros

  • Powerful cooling for up to 450 sq.ft
  • Energy-saving and efficient
  • Easy to install and operate
  • Low noise and washable air filter
  • Compact and portable design

Cons

  • Issues with noise level
  • Potential for leaking

The ZAFRO 10,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner offers effective cooling and energy-saving features, making it a convenient choice for smaller spaces. Although it may not fully substitute a traditional AC, it serves well as a backup or supplemental unit. Its compact design and washable air filter add to its appeal, but potential noise and leakage issues should be considered. Overall, it’s a reliable option with good customer service support.

Overall Score: 8/10

The ZAFRO 8,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner is a powerful and energy-saving cooling solution perfect for rooms up to 350 sq.ft. The 3-in-1 modes and compact remote make it easy to operate, while the unit's low noise level ensures a peaceful environment. Equipped with a washable air filter and easy to install and move, this portable AC unit is designed for convenience. Its portable size and sleek design make it ideal for use in various rooms. The unit also comes in a clean and stylish white color. With a customer rating of 4.2/5, this air conditioner has received positive reviews that praise its easy use, cooling capacity, and value for the price.

Key Features

  • Powerful Cooling & Energy-saving: 8,000 BTU suitable for 350 Sq.Ft
  • 3-in-1 Modes & Easy to Operate: Cool/Dry/Fan modes and compact remote
  • Sleep Mode & Low Noise: ≤45d B for a peaceful night's sleep
  • Washable Air Filter: Easy to clean and maintain
  • Easy to Install & Move: Hassle-free setup and portability
  • Portable Size Design: Compact and ideal for various rooms

Specifications

  • Color: White
  • Dimension: 11.00Lx11.00Wx27.00H
  • Size: 8,000 BTU

Pros

  • Powerful cooling capacity
  • Energy-saving design
  • Low noise level
  • Easy to install and move
  • Sleek and compact design

Cons

  • Issues with hose connection reported
  • Some units experienced heating rather than cooling

The ZAFRO 8,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner delivers powerful and efficient cooling for rooms up to 350 sq.ft. With its user-friendly design, low noise level, and portability, it offers great value for the price. However, some users have reported issues with the hose connection and malfunctioning units. Overall, it’s a solid choice for those looking for a reliable portable AC unit.

Overall Score: 8/10

The Dokoworld YPK2-10C 10000BTU portable air conditioner is a powerful and efficient cooling system designed to keep you cool and comfortable all summer long. It has 3-in-1 functions and is easy to install, move, clean, and store. The air conditioner is compact, quiet, and ideal for large spaces, and comes with a 24-hour customer service. With a compact design and easy installation, this portable air conditioner is perfect for bedrooms, living rooms, basements, garages, patios, and apartments.

Key Features

  • Compact, Quiet and Powerful
  • 3-in-1 Function and Easy to Use
  • Easy to Install and Move
  • Easy to Clean and Store
  • High Quality & Customer Service

Specifications

  • Color: White
  • Dimension: 11.60Lx12.80Wx27.60H
  • Size: 10000 BTU

Pros

  • Efficient cooling system
  • 3-in-1 functionality
  • Easy installation and mobility
  • Easy to clean and store
  • High-quality construction and great customer service

Cons

  • Window adapter may need modification
  • Unit may run non-stop and draw a lot of electricity

The Dokoworld 10000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner is a highly efficient and effective cooling solution for large spaces. Its compact design, ease of installation, and mobility, as well as its customer service, make it a great choice for cooling bedrooms, living rooms, basements, garages, patios, and apartments. While there are some minor drawbacks, the overall performance and quality of this portable air conditioner outweigh them, making it a great investment for staying cool and comfortable during the summer.

  • Consider the size of the room: Measure the square footage of the room where you plan to use the portable AC. This will help you determine the cooling capacity you need.
  • Energy efficiency: Look for portable AC units with high Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) ratings. The higher the EER, the more energy-efficient the unit is, which can help you save money on electricity bills.
  • Noise level: Check the decibel rating of the portable AC. Lower decibels mean quieter operation, which is important if you plan to use the unit in a bedroom or office.
  • Portability: Consider the weight and size of the unit. Look for features like casters and handles that make it easier to move the AC from room to room.
  • Installation: Check the installation requirements of the portable AC. Some units may require venting through a window, while others may come with a slide-out chassis for easy installation.
  • Features: Look for additional features like programmable timers, remote controls, and adjustable fan speeds for added convenience and comfort.
  • Maintenance: Consider the ease of maintenance, such as filter cleaning and drainage. Some units may have self-evaporating technology to minimize the need for manual draining.
  • Brand reputation: Research the reputation of the brand and read reviews from other buyers to gauge the overall performance and reliability of the portable AC unit.
  • Warranty: Check the warranty coverage and duration offered by the manufacturer. A longer warranty period can provide peace of mind in case of malfunctions or defects.

Frequently Asked Questions about 9 Best Portable Air Conditioner

Can I use a portable AC in a small room?

Yes, portable ACs are an excellent option for cooling down small rooms, such as bedrooms or home offices. They are easy to set up and provide effective cooling without taking up much space.

Are portable ACs energy efficient?

Portable ACs vary in energy efficiency, so it’s important to look for models with high EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio) ratings. Additionally, using features like programmable timers and energy-saving modes can help to reduce energy consumption.

Can I install a portable AC by myself?

Yes, you can typically set up a portable AC on your own without needing a professional. The installation process usually involves securing the unit’s exhaust hose and venting it out of a window.

Do portable ACs require a lot of maintenance?

Like any cooling system, portable ACs should be regularly maintained to ensure optimal performance. This includes cleaning or replacing filters, emptying the water reservoir, and checking for any blockages in the exhaust hose.

Can I move a portable AC from room to room?

Yes, that’s one of the key benefits of a portable AC. They are designed to be easily movable, so you can cool different rooms depending on where you need it most. Just make sure to choose a model with convenient handles or wheels for easy transportation.

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