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Best Portable Air Conditioners for 2024

We analyzed top picks from leading reviewers to find the best for every need

By ShopSavvy Team

Published: February 23rd, 2024

❄️Portable air conditioners are a lifesaver when traditional air conditioning just won't cut it. Whether you're looking to cool a cozy bedroom or an expansive living area, our top picks for 2024 have got you covered. We've looked into cooling power, energy efficiency, noise levels, and extra features to bring you the cream of the crop in portable air conditioners.

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Overall Best: Midea Duo Smart Inverter Portable Air Conditioner

Midea Duo Smart Inverter Portable Air Conditioner

The Midea Duo Smart Inverter Portable Air Conditioner emerges as our top pick overall. This model is a powerhouse, capable of cooling up to 550 square feet efficiently. It operates at noise levels under 50 decibels, making it an ultra-quiet option. What really sets the Midea Duo apart is its smart technology. The unit integrates smoothly with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, allowing for convenient voice-controlled operation. Additionally, it features a built-in heater, transforming it into an all-season solution. With a cooling capacity of 14,000 BTUs and multi-functional capabilities (dehumidifying, fan, and heating), it's a versatile choice that stands up to diverse climate control needs.

BTU: 14,000
Coverage: Up to 550 square feet
Noise: 42 to 49.3 dB
Features: Dehumidify, fan, and heat functions; voice control via smart assistant

Available at Amazon

View at Amazon

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Runner-up: Whynter ARC-14S Dual Hose Portable Air Conditioner

Whynter Portable Air Conditioner 14,000 BTU with Dual Hose Dehumidifier & Cooling Fan for 500 Sq Ft Rooms, Includes AC Unit Window Kit, ARC-14S (9,500 BTU SACC)

Whynter ARC-14S Dual Hose Portable Air Conditioner

Runner-up on our list is the Whynter ARC-14S Dual Hose Portable Air Conditioner, thanks to its exceptional cooling efficiency and sturdy build. This unit is designed to cool spaces up to 500 square feet and features a dual-hose system that speeds up cooling. Its dual functionality means it can also be used as a dehumidifier, making it useful year-round. While it is heavier than some alternatives, its robust performance in larger spaces justifies the extra weight. With auto-drain technology and a powerful 14,000 BTU capacity, the Whynter ARC-14S is a dependable option for those needing substantial cooling power.

BTU: 14,000
Coverage: Up to 500 square feet
Noise: 52 dB
Features: Dual hose evaporation, auto drain function

Lowest at Amazon

$450.00 at Amazon

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$425.67 at AliExpress

More Answers

Still curious about the Whynter ARC-14S Portable Air Conditioner? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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How effective is the Whynter ARC-14S at cooling large spaces?

Hey! So if you're thinking about the Whynter ARC-14S for cooling a big room, it's generally pretty effective. This portable AC has a solid cooling capacity of 14,000 BTU, which the manufacturer says works well for spaces up to about 500 square feet—give or take, depending on things like insulation and the amount of sunlight the room gets. One thing that's pretty cool about it is its dual-hose design. From what we found, the dual-hose setup helps avoid recycling warm air back into the room, making it more efficient and quicker at cooling compared to its [single-hose counterparts](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dsingle-hose%2Bportable%2Bac%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20). It also has some really handy features like a programmable timer and a remote control, which are nice perks if you want to tweak settings from your couch. Plus, it has a dehumidifying mode, which can make a difference if you're dealing with sticky, humid weather. Based on our research, folks have generally found it does a great job of quickly dropping the temperature, even on really hot days. Just a heads up, though—some noted that it can be a bit noisy, so keep that in mind if you're noise-sensitive. When it comes to upkeep, it's pretty straightforward. The ARC-14S has washable filters, including a pre-filter and an activated carbon filter, which help keep the air fresh. Just remember to clean them regularly to keep things running smoothly. Overall, if you need a reliable AC for larger rooms, the Whynter ARC-14S seems like a solid choice. Just consider the noise level and see if it fits your specific needs.

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How well does the Whynter ARC-14S handle humidity?

Sure thing! The Whynter ARC-14S is pretty solid at handling humidity. It’s designed with a dual hose setup that not only cools efficiently but also does a great job of pulling moisture out of the air. That's a big plus if you're dealing with muggy weather. From what we gathered, the ARC-14S can remove up to 101 pints of water a day. Impressive, right? This kind of performance means it can really make a difference in your living space, especially when the air feels like you're swimming in it. Also, the cool thing (pun intended) is that it works as a dehumidifier even when it's not actively cooling. So, if it's one of those days where it's not blazing hot but still sticky, you can run it just to knock down the humidity. According to our findings, folks using this model appreciate how it fights off mold and mildew, which can be tricky when things get too damp. Plus, it has this auto-drain feature that reuses the moisture caught during cooling—so less hassle with emptying water constantly. All in all, if you're hunting for something that won't just cool but also handle humidity like a champ, the Whynter ARC-14S is worth considering. It does a nice job keeping the space comfy and dry without much fuss.

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Does the Whynter ARC-14S have issues with blowing warm air intermittently?

If you're looking at the Whynter ARC-14S and wondering about it blowing warm air occasionally, here's the lowdown from what we've dug up. The Whynter ARC-14S is a well-regarded portable AC that generally performs well in cooling rooms. The manufacturer highlights its dual hose design, which is supposed to cool more efficiently than single hose models. However, some people have mentioned it occasionally does blow warm air. This isn't a constant issue and seems to be more of a sporadic thing. There might be a couple of reasons for this. First off, improper installation could be the culprit, especially if the exhaust hose isn't vented properly. The manufacturer's instructions say to make sure the exhaust hose is kink-free and venting out smoothly, so the unit can clear warm air effectively. Another thing that can affect performance is the room's temperature and humidity. If it’s super hot or humid, the AC might struggle a bit and occasionally spurt out warm air, but this typically isn't a regular problem. Maintenance plays a role too. Keeping the filters and coils clean is key. Dirty filters or coils can impact performance, so it’s worth staying on top of that. If these warmer blasts happen a lot, you might want to reach out to Whynter’s customer service or check the manual for fixes. They might have advice tailored to your situation. Overall, while there are some reports of warm air issues with the Whynter ARC-14S, they're generally linked to setup or specific conditions. If you decide to go for it, just keep these tips in mind to get the best out of your unit. Hope that helps!

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Budget Pick: Black+Decker BPACT08WT

BLACK+DECKER 8,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner up to 350 Sq.Ft.with Remote Control, White

Black+Decker BPACT08WT

Our budget pick is the Black+Decker BPACT08WT, ideal for those needing an affordable yet effective cooling solution. With an 8,000 BTU capacity, this model is perfect for smaller rooms up to 200 square feet. Despite its lower price tag, it still offers essential features like easy installation and user-friendly controls. It's compact and straightforward, making it great for apartments or small offices. While it may not have the advanced features of higher-end models, it delivers reliable cooling performance without stretching your budget.

BTU: 8,000
Coverage: Up to 200 square feet
Noise: 55 dB
Features: Compact design, easy installation

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$279.99 at Amazon

Best for Large Spaces: Frigidaire FHPW142AC1 3-in-1 Portable Air Conditioner

Frigidaire FHPC102AC1 Portable Room Air Conditioner, 10,000 BTU (ASHRAE) /6,500 BTU (DOE) with Multi-Speed Fan, Dehumidifier Mode, Built-in Air Ionizer, Easy-to-Clean Washable Filter, in White

Frigidaire FHPW142AC1 3-in-1 Portable Air Conditioner

For larger spaces, the Frigidaire FHPW142AC1 stands out. Capable of cooling areas up to 700 square feet, this unit puts out an impressive 14,000 BTUs. It offers three functions: cooling, fan, and dehumidifying, making it a versatile choice for various climates. An added bonus is the clean air ionizer, which helps improve air quality by reducing airborne particles. While it doesn't come with a heating function, its superior cooling efficiency and ability to handle large spaces make it a top contender.

BTU: 14,000
Coverage: Up to 700 square feet
Noise: 48 to 51 dB
Features: Dehumidifier and fan functions, voice control

Available at Amazon

View at Amazon

Best High-End Portable AC Unit: Midea MAP14HS1TBL

Midea Duo 14,000 BTU (12,000 BTU SACC) High Efficiency Inverter Ultra Quiet Portable Air Conditioner,with Heat up to 550 Sq. Ft., Works with Alexa/Google Assistant, with Remote Control & Window Kit Black 14,000 BTU with Heat

Midea MAP14HS1TBL

For those willing to invest in a high-end unit, the Midea MAP14HS1TBL offers premium features and top-notch performance. This model covers up to 550 square feet with a 12,000 BTU capacity. It boasts advanced functionalities, including a smart control app and compatibility with Alexa and Google Assistant, allowing for seamless operation. It also has a built-in dehumidifier, enhancing its functionality. With its robust performance and comprehensive features, the Midea MAP14HS1TBL is well worth its higher price point.

BTU: 12,000
Coverage: Up to 550 square feet
Noise: 42 to 49 dB
Features: Smart app control, compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant

Lowest at Amazon

$995.70 at Amazon

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$473.05 at AliExpress.com

Quietest Portable Air Conditioner: De'Longhi Pinguino PAC AN112 Silent

De'Longhi Pinguino PAC AN112 Silent

For those particularly sensitive to noise, the De'Longhi Pinguino PAC AN112 Silent is the best choice. It operates at a low noise level of just 48 decibels without sacrificing cooling power, making it ideal for bedrooms and other quiet environments. This unit can cool areas up to 450 square feet and includes a remote control and programmable timer for added convenience. It’s a great option if you need an efficient cooling solution that won’t interrupt your peace and quiet.