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10 Best Room 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, 12,000 BTU for Rooms up to 550 Sq. Ft., Smart Portable AC with Follow Me Remote and Window Kit, BPACT12WT, White

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,479
Cooling Capacity (BTUs)
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Noise Level

Most important from
49871 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTUs)
Delivers powerful cooling quickly and maintains a comfortable temperature without running constantly, which helps reduce energy consumption.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Delivers powerful cooling quickly and maintains a comfortable temperature without running constantly, which helps reduce energy consumption.
Noise Level
Operates much quieter than previous portable AC units, allowing conversations and calls nearby without needing to turn it off.
Installation Type
The hose connection is impressively secure and easy to attach, preventing the common issue of the vent hose falling off during operation.
Smart Features
Offers a good balance of portability, smart features, and effective cooling for users comfortable with moderate noise and energy use.

The BLACK+DECKER Smart Portable Air Conditioner offers 12,000 BTUs of cooling power, suitable for rooms up to about 550 square feet, making it a good choice for medium-sized bedrooms or living spaces. It’s a portable unit, so you can move it around as needed without permanent installation, and it comes with a window kit for easy venting. One helpful feature is the “Follow Me” remote, which acts like a mini thermostat to keep the temperature just right where you are in the room. It also supports smart controls via an app and voice commands through Alexa or Google Assistant, which is convenient if you like smart home gadgets.

On the energy side, its efficiency ratio (SEER 5.8) is moderate but it’s not Energy Star rated, so it might use more electricity than some more efficient models. Noise level is around 52 dB, which is noticeable but generally acceptable for a portable AC—it's quieter than many similar units but might still be a bit distracting in very quiet environments. The unit also functions as a fan and dehumidifier, adding versatility. However, it doesn’t specify a special filter type, so if air purification is a priority, this may not be the best fit. The water evaporation feature helps reduce manual draining, which is convenient.

This AC is well suited for users who want flexible cooling with smart features in medium-sized rooms and are comfortable with some noise and moderate energy consumption.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,479
Cooling Capacity (BTUs)
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Noise Level

Most important from
49871 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTUs)
Delivers powerful cooling quickly and maintains a comfortable temperature without running constantly, which helps reduce energy consumption.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Delivers powerful cooling quickly and maintains a comfortable temperature without running constantly, which helps reduce energy consumption.
Noise Level
Operates much quieter than previous portable AC units, allowing conversations and calls nearby without needing to turn it off.
Installation Type
The hose connection is impressively secure and easy to attach, preventing the common issue of the vent hose falling off during operation.
Smart Features
Offers a good balance of portability, smart features, and effective cooling for users comfortable with moderate noise and energy use.
#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
10.0
Cooling Capacity (BTUs)
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Noise Level

Most important from
49871 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTUs)
Delivers powerful cooling quickly, easily lowering room temperature within minutes and maintaining it efficiently without constant running.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Energy costs are expected to be lower than older models due to the unit cycling on and off rather than running continuously.
Noise Level
Operates noticeably quieter than previous portable AC units, allowing conversations and video calls nearby without interruption.
Installation Type
The hose connection system locks securely in place, preventing accidental disconnections and ensuring reliable venting.
Smart Features
Functions well as a three-in-one device, also offering dehumidification and fan modes to adapt to varying climate needs.

The BLACK+DECKER Smart Portable Air Conditioner offers solid cooling power with 14,000 BTUs, suitable for rooms up to 700 square feet, making it a good choice for medium-sized bedrooms or living spaces. It’s a three-in-one unit that not only cools but also works as a dehumidifier and fan, adding versatility for different weather conditions. The energy efficiency ratio (SEER) is about 6.2, which is decent for a portable model though less efficient compared to window or split ACs. Noise level is around 54 decibels, moderately quiet but might be noticeable in very quiet rooms or at night.

Installation is straightforward for a portable AC, coming with a window kit and exhaust hose, so professional help is not required. A strong point is its smart features: you can control it via Wi-Fi using a mobile app and even use voice commands through Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant, making it convenient and modern. The included remote control has a 'Follow Me' function that uses the remote as a thermostat to provide more accurate temperature control near you. The washable filter is easy to maintain, helping keep the air clean without extra replacement costs.

It is somewhat heavy at over 62 pounds, so moving it around might be challenging. The energy efficiency is moderate, so it could benefit from better power-saving capabilities if run extensively. The 1-year warranty is standard but not very long. For those seeking a portable and smart cooling solution with decent power and easy setup for a medium room, this BLACK+DECKER unit presents a practical option with useful modern features, though it may not be the quietest or most energy-saving choice.

Rating
10.0
Cooling Capacity (BTUs)
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Noise Level

Most important from
49871 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTUs)
Delivers powerful cooling quickly, easily lowering room temperature within minutes and maintaining it efficiently without constant running.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Energy costs are expected to be lower than older models due to the unit cycling on and off rather than running continuously.
Noise Level
Operates noticeably quieter than previous portable AC units, allowing conversations and video calls nearby without interruption.
Installation Type
The hose connection system locks securely in place, preventing accidental disconnections and ensuring reliable venting.
Smart Features
Functions well as a three-in-one device, also offering dehumidification and fan modes to adapt to varying climate needs.
#3

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
10.0
Cooling Capacity (BTUs)
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Noise Level

Most important from
49871 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTUs)
This unit EASILY cools the room in a few minutes and keeps it cool all day.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Love this machine, best of the other two I owned. More efficient than previous machines.
Noise Level
Much quieter than previous units I've owned. I can still talk on the phone 5 feet away without having to first shut the unit off.

The BLACK+DECKER Smart Portable Air Conditioner with Heat offers a versatile solution for year-round comfort. It boasts a cooling capacity of 14,000 BTU (ASHRAE) and 10,000 BTU (DOE), which is suitable for rooms up to 700 sq. ft. This makes it a solid choice if you need to cool a large space. Additionally, it provides 12,000 BTU heating, making it useful in winter as well. The unit features a 6.2 SEER rating, which is not very high, meaning it is not the most energy-efficient option available.

Its noise level is 54 dB, which is relatively moderate and should not be overly disruptive in most settings. As a portable unit, it offers flexibility in placement, which is convenient if you need to move it between rooms. Installation is simplified with the included window kit and vented airflow outlet. Smart features like Wi-Fi connectivity, mobile app control, and compatibility with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant add a modern touch to this device, making it easy to control remotely.

The 'Follow Me' remote option, which uses the remote as a thermostat, allows for more precise temperature control. However, it is worth noting that this model is not Energy Star rated, which might be a consideration if energy efficiency is a priority for you. The unit also functions as a dehumidifier and fan, adding to its versatility. It is a well-rounded air conditioner with some notable smart features, though its energy efficiency could be better.

Rating
10.0
Cooling Capacity (BTUs)
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Noise Level

Most important from
49871 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTUs)
This unit EASILY cools the room in a few minutes and keeps it cool all day.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Love this machine, best of the other two I owned. More efficient than previous machines.
Noise Level
Much quieter than previous units I've owned. I can still talk on the phone 5 feet away without having to first shut the unit off.

Buying Guide for the Best Room Air Conditioners

Choosing the right room air conditioner can make a significant difference in your comfort and energy bills. The key is to find a unit that fits your specific needs and the size of the room you want to cool. Here are some important specifications to consider when selecting a room air conditioner.
Cooling Capacity (BTUs)Cooling capacity, measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs), 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 will struggle to cool the room, while one with too high a BTU rating will cool the room too quickly without removing enough humidity, leading to a clammy feeling. To navigate this, consider the size of your room: for a small room (100-300 sq. ft.), 5,000-7,000 BTUs is usually sufficient; for a medium room (300-500 sq. ft.), 8,000-12,000 BTUs is appropriate; and for a large room (500-800 sq. ft.), 14,000-18,000 BTUs may be needed. Match the BTU rating to your room size for optimal comfort.
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 BTUs by the power consumption in watts. Look for units with an EER of 10 or higher for good efficiency. If you prioritize energy savings and environmental impact, choose a model with a higher EER.
Noise LevelNoise level is an important consideration, especially if the air conditioner will be used in a bedroom or living area. Noise levels are measured in decibels (dB). Units with a noise level of 50 dB or lower are considered quiet and are suitable for bedrooms. For living rooms or other areas where noise is less of a concern, units with noise levels up to 60 dB may be acceptable. Consider where you will place the air conditioner and choose a noise level that will not disrupt your activities or sleep.
Installation TypeRoom air conditioners come in different installation types, including window-mounted, wall-mounted, and portable units. Window-mounted units are the most common and are easy to install in a standard window frame. Wall-mounted units require a more permanent installation but do not obstruct the window. Portable units can be moved from room to room but require a venting kit to expel hot air. Choose the installation type that best fits your living situation and preferences.
Smart FeaturesMany modern air conditioners come with smart features such as Wi-Fi connectivity, remote control, and programmable timers. These features allow you to control the unit remotely, set schedules, and optimize energy use. If you value convenience and want to integrate your air conditioner with other smart home devices, look for models with these advanced features. However, if you prefer simplicity, a basic model without smart features may be sufficient.
Filter TypeThe type of filter used in an air conditioner affects air quality and maintenance. Washable and reusable filters are cost-effective and environmentally friendly, as they can be cleaned and reused multiple times. Disposable filters need to be replaced regularly but may offer better filtration for allergens and dust. If you have allergies or respiratory issues, consider a unit with a high-quality filter that can capture fine particles. Otherwise, a washable filter may be more convenient and economical.

FAQ