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10 Best Cheap Portable Ac 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

BLACK+DECKER Smart Portable Air Conditioner, 14,000 BTU ASHRAE 128 (10,000 BTU DOE) for Rooms up to 700 Sq. Ft., Smart Portable AC with Follow Me Remote and Window Kit, BPACT14WT, White

The BLACK+DECKER Smart Portable Air Conditioner promises to provide a robust cooling solution for rooms up to 700 sq. ft. With a cooling capacity of 14,000 BTU (ASHRAE) and 10,000 BTU (DOE), it is quite powerful for its category. Its three-in-one functionality as an air conditioner, dehumidifier, and fan adds to its versatility. The unit's portability is highlighted by its manageable dimensions and weight of 62.4 pounds, making it relatively easy to move between rooms.

A significant advantage is the smart features like Wi-Fi connectivity and voice control via Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, enhancing convenience. The 'Follow Me' remote control is another user-friendly feature, offering precise temperature control by acting as a thermostat. The included window installation kit simplifies the setup process.

There are some considerations to keep in mind. The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) of 6.2 is lower compared to other models, suggesting it might not be the most energy-efficient option in the long run. Additionally, while the noise level is relatively moderate at 54 dB, it may still be noticeable to some users. Despite these drawbacks, the BLACK+DECKER Smart Portable Air Conditioner remains a strong contender in the budget portable AC category, especially for those seeking additional smart features and multifunctionality.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Cooling Capacity (BTU)
The BLACK+DECKER unit easily cools the room in a few minutes and maintains a comfortable temperature all day.
Noise Level
The air conditioner is much quieter than previous models, allowing phone conversations even when it is running.
Additional Features
The hose attachment on the back of the unit is significantly better and more secure compared to other models.
#2

BLACK+DECKER 10,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner up to 450 Sq. with Remote Control, White

The BLACK+DECKER 10,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner is a versatile and affordable option for cooling rooms up to 450 sq. ft. With a compact size (15.3” x 14” x 24.8”) and weighing 47.3 lbs, it's easy to move around thanks to its casters and side handles. The unit's cooling capacity is adequate for medium-sized rooms, ensuring comfort during hot months.

Additionally, it serves as a dehumidifier and fan, which adds to its value. The remote control and top-mounted LED display enhance usability, making it user-friendly. It also features a slide-out washable filter, auto water evaporation, and a 24-hour timer for convenience and maintenance ease. The included window installation kit simplifies the setup process, ensuring efficient ventilation.

However, the unit's noise level is 52 dB, which might be noticeable but generally acceptable for an air conditioner. The SEER rating of 6.7 indicates it may not be the most energy-efficient model, which could result in higher electricity bills over time. Despite these drawbacks, the BLACK+DECKER 10,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner is a solid choice for those seeking an affordable, multi-functional cooling solution with the added benefit of portability.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Cooling Capacity (BTU)
The BLACK+DECKER unit easily cools the room in a few minutes and keeps it cool all day, cycling on and off to maintain the temperature.
Noise Level
Much quieter than previous units, you can still talk on the phone 5 feet away without needing to shut the unit off.
#3

BLACK+DECKER 12,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner up to 550 Sq. with Remote Control, White

The BLACK+DECKER 12,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner is a solid choice for cooling rooms up to 550 sq. ft. Its compact size and portability make it ideal for moving between rooms, thanks to the casters and side handles. The unit functions as a 3-in-1 device, working as an air conditioner, dehumidifier, and fan, which adds to its versatility.

The Follow Me remote control is a standout feature, allowing for precise temperature control by acting as a thermostat. This can be particularly useful for those who want to maintain a consistent temperature across the room without manually adjusting the settings frequently. The noise level is relatively low at 52 dB, making it suitable for bedrooms or offices where quiet is important.

The energy efficiency ratio (EER) of 5.8 is not the highest, which means it might not be the most energy-efficient option on the market. The unit's cooling power is strong at 12,000 BTUs, but its energy consumption might be a consideration for those looking to minimize their power bills. Setup is straightforward with the included window installation kit, and features like auto water evaporation add convenience by reducing the need for manual draining. Weighing 56.8 pounds, it's not the lightest portable AC but still manageable for most users. This air conditioner is best suited for those needing a versatile, portable cooling solution for medium-sized rooms and are okay with a moderate level of energy efficiency.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Cooling Capacity (BTU)
The BLACK+DECKER unit easily cools the room in a few minutes and keeps it cool all day, cycling on and off efficiently.
Noise Level
Much quieter than previous units, it allows for phone calls without needing to shut it off.
Additional Features
The hose attachment is far superior to other units, locking in place securely and preventing disconnection.

Buying Guide for the Best Cheap Portable Ac

Choosing the right portable air conditioner can make a big difference in your comfort during hot weather. Portable ACs are convenient because they can be moved from room to room, and they don't require permanent installation. When selecting a portable AC, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs. Here are the main specs to look at and how to understand them.
Cooling Capacity (BTU)BTU stands for British Thermal Units, and it measures the cooling power of the air conditioner. The higher the BTU, the more cooling power the unit has. For small rooms (up to 150 square feet), a unit with 5,000-8,000 BTU is usually sufficient. Medium rooms (150-300 square feet) typically need 8,000-12,000 BTU, while larger rooms (300-500 square feet) may require 12,000-18,000 BTU. Choose a unit with the appropriate BTU rating for the size of the room you plan to cool.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)The Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) measures how efficiently the air conditioner uses energy. It is calculated by dividing the BTU rating by the power consumption in watts. A higher EER indicates a more efficient unit, which can save you money on electricity bills. Look for units with an EER of 10 or higher for better energy efficiency. If you plan to use the AC frequently, a higher EER can be more cost-effective in the long run.
Noise LevelNoise level is measured in decibels (dB) and indicates how loud the air conditioner will be when operating. Lower dB levels mean quieter operation. Portable ACs typically range from 50 to 70 dB. If you plan to use the unit in a bedroom or office, you might prefer a quieter model (around 50-55 dB). For living rooms or areas where noise is less of a concern, higher dB levels may be acceptable.
Size and PortabilityThe physical size and weight of the portable AC can affect how easy it is to move and store. Smaller, lighter units are easier to transport and fit into tight spaces. Consider the dimensions and weight of the unit, especially if you plan to move it frequently between rooms. Look for models with built-in handles and caster wheels for easier mobility.
Additional FeaturesMany portable ACs come with extra features that can enhance convenience and comfort. Common features include remote controls, programmable timers, sleep modes, and dehumidifiers. Think about which features are important to you. For example, a remote control can make it easier to adjust settings from across the room, while a programmable timer can help you save energy by automatically turning the unit off when not needed.

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