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10 Best Cheap Window Ac Unit 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Midea 8,000 BTU U Shaped Smart Inverter Window Air Conditioner, Cools up to 350 Sq. Ft., Ultra Quiet with Open Window Flexibility, Works with Alexa/Google Assistant, 35% Energy Savings, Remote Control

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,243
Cooling Capacity (BTUs
Noise Level
Size and Installation

Most important from
11566 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTUs
The Midea unit puts out serious cold air, easily cooling larger rooms.
Noise Level
This air conditioner is impressively quiet, even at high settings.
Size and Installation
The installation is relatively easy, even for one person, although sealing small gaps is necessary.
Additional Features
The smart features, including app control and voice commands, add significant convenience.

The Midea 8,000 BTU U Shaped Smart Inverter Window Air Conditioner is a compact yet powerful cooling solution ideal for rooms up to 350 sq. ft. With a high energy efficiency ratio and a SEER rating of 15, it stands out in terms of energy savings, boasting over 35% efficiency compared to traditional units. This unit is also recognized with the ENERGY STAR Most Efficient Certification, making it a cost-effective choice in the long run.

One of its key highlights is its ultra-quiet operation, thanks to the U-shape design and advanced inverter technology, keeping noise levels as low as 32 dBA, making it suitable for bedrooms or home offices. The smart control feature adds convenience, allowing users to control the unit via the SmartHome app or voice commands through Alexa and Google Assistant. Additionally, the unique U-shaped design offers flexibility for opening the window, providing fresh air and maintaining safety with an Anti-Theft Mechanism.

Installation is straightforward with the quick-snap bracket and is compatible with single or double-hung windows between 22 to 36 inches wide and at least 13.75 inches high. However, at 55.6 pounds, it may require some effort to lift and install. The included remote control and dust filter add to the user-friendly design. The Midea 8,000 BTU unit is best suited for those looking for an energy-efficient, quiet, and smart-controlled window air conditioner.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,243
Cooling Capacity (BTUs
Noise Level
Size and Installation

Most important from
11566 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTUs
The Midea unit puts out serious cold air, easily cooling larger rooms.
Noise Level
This air conditioner is impressively quiet, even at high settings.
Size and Installation
The installation is relatively easy, even for one person, although sealing small gaps is necessary.
Additional Features
The smart features, including app control and voice commands, add significant convenience.
#2

Midea 5,000 BTU EasyCool Small Window Air Conditioner - Cool up to 150 Sq. Ft. with Easy-to-Use Mechanical Controls and Reusable Filter, Perfect for Small Bedroom, Living Room, Home Office

Rating
9.6
Cooling Capacity (BTUs
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Noise Level

Most important from
12618 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTUs
While it lacks modern features like a remote control, it cools effectively even in very hot weather.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
The unit is impressively efficient, pulling no more than 400 watts even at its max cooling setting.
Noise Level
It is surprisingly quiet. You barely know it is on.
Size and Installation
Installation is straightforward, and it fits perfectly in small windows.

The Midea 5,000 BTU EasyCool Small Window Air Conditioner is a suitable option for those looking for an affordable AC unit to cool small spaces up to 150 square feet. It offers good cooling capacity with 7 temperature settings and 2 cooling/fan-only speeds, making it versatile enough for different preferences and needs. The unit has a Combined Energy Efficiency Rate (CEER) of 11.0, which is commendable for its class, helping to save on energy costs over time.

Additionally, it's designed to be quieter than a household refrigerator, operating at 57 dB, which is relatively quiet for a window AC unit. Users will appreciate the easy-to-use mechanical controls and the removable, reusable air filter that simplifies maintenance. Installation is straightforward, with all necessary mounting accessories included, but do note that a screwdriver is required, and some window frames might need pilot holes drilled for installation. The AC is suitable for windows between 23'' to 36'' wide and at least 13'' high.

One potential drawback is its basic functionality; it lacks modern features like a remote control or Wi-Fi connectivity, which could be a downside for some users. Additionally, while the noise level is generally low, it may still be noticeable in very quiet environments. The unit comes with a one-year parts and labor warranty, which provides some peace of mind. In summary, this AC unit is best suited for small bedrooms, living rooms, or home offices where users need a cost-effective and efficient cooling solution without too many frills.

Rating
9.6
Cooling Capacity (BTUs
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Noise Level

Most important from
12618 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTUs
While it lacks modern features like a remote control, it cools effectively even in very hot weather.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
The unit is impressively efficient, pulling no more than 400 watts even at its max cooling setting.
Noise Level
It is surprisingly quiet. You barely know it is on.
Size and Installation
Installation is straightforward, and it fits perfectly in small windows.
#3

LG 12,000 BTU Window Air Conditioner, 115V, Cools 550 Sq.Ft. for Bedroom, Living Room, Apartment, Quiet Operation, Electronic Control with Remote, 3 Cooling & Fan Speeds, Auto Restart, White

Rating
9.3
Cooling Capacity (BTUs)
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Noise Level

Most important from
16397 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTUs)
Despite some shipping mishaps, the unit is relatively quiet and delivers solid cooling performance.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
The energy-saving mode is excellent, offering periods of no noise while maintaining a comfortable temperature.
Noise Level
The 52 decibel noise level allows for comfortable sleep, making it a great option for light sleepers.
Size and Installation
The unit performs very well, fits tightly in the window, and seals effectively on all sides.
Additional Features
The inclined cooling grill effectively directs air to the ceiling, preventing hot air pockets and ensuring a more even temperature distribution.

The LG 12,000 BTU Window Air Conditioner is a solid choice for those seeking an affordable and efficient cooling solution for rooms up to 550 square feet. It's particularly well-suited for bedrooms, living rooms, and medium-sized apartments. One of its standout features is the low noise performance, operating at just 52 dB in low mode, making it a good option for light sleepers or anyone needing a quieter environment.

The unit also offers flexibility with three cooling and fan speeds, as well as an Auto Cool setting, allowing users to customize their comfort level effortlessly. The digital control panel and included remote control add to its ease of use, while the 4-way air deflection ensures optimal air distribution throughout the room. Convenience is further enhanced by features like the filter light reminder, a washable filter, and a complete window installation kit.

The 24-hour timer is a handy addition for those looking to save on energy costs by scheduling the unit to turn on and off automatically. However, there are some drawbacks. Despite its cooling efficiency, the unit lacks an Energy Star rating, which may be a consideration for those particularly focused on energy conservation. Additionally, while it is efficient for its class, the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) of 13 is decent but not the highest available, meaning there are more energy-efficient models on the market.

Rating
9.3
Cooling Capacity (BTUs)
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Noise Level

Most important from
16397 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTUs)
Despite some shipping mishaps, the unit is relatively quiet and delivers solid cooling performance.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
The energy-saving mode is excellent, offering periods of no noise while maintaining a comfortable temperature.
Noise Level
The 52 decibel noise level allows for comfortable sleep, making it a great option for light sleepers.
Size and Installation
The unit performs very well, fits tightly in the window, and seals effectively on all sides.
Additional Features
The inclined cooling grill effectively directs air to the ceiling, preventing hot air pockets and ensuring a more even temperature distribution.

Buying Guide for the Best Cheap Window Ac Unit

When choosing a window air conditioning unit, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs. A window AC unit can be a great way to cool a room without the expense and hassle of installing central air conditioning. By understanding the key specs, you can make an informed decision that balances cooling power, energy efficiency, and noise levels with your specific requirements.
Cooling Capacity (BTUs)Cooling capacity, measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs), indicates how much heat the unit can remove from a room per hour. This is crucial because it determines how effectively the unit can cool your space. Units with lower BTUs (5,000-8,000) are suitable for small rooms up to 350 square feet, while medium-sized rooms (350-550 square feet) may require 8,000-12,000 BTUs. Larger rooms (550-1,000 square feet) will need units with 12,000-18,000 BTUs. To pick the right one, match the BTU rating to the size of the room you want to cool. If the unit is too powerful, it will cycle on and off too frequently, leading to inefficiency and higher energy costs. If it's too weak, it won't cool the room effectively.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)The Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) measures how efficiently the air conditioner uses energy to cool a room. A higher EER means better energy efficiency, which can lead to lower electricity bills. EER values typically range from 8 to 12. For a more energy-efficient unit, look for an EER of 10 or higher. If you plan to use the AC unit frequently, investing in a higher EER can save you money in the long run. Consider your usage patterns and energy costs when choosing the EER rating.
Noise LevelNoise level is an important factor, especially if the unit will be installed in a bedroom or living area where quiet is essential. Noise levels are measured in decibels (dB). Units with noise levels below 50 dB are considered quiet, while those above 60 dB can be quite loud. If you are sensitive to noise or plan to use the unit in a quiet environment, look for models with lower dB ratings. For less critical areas, a higher noise level might be acceptable.
Size and InstallationThe physical size of the unit and the ease of installation are also important considerations. Ensure that the unit will fit in your window and that you have the necessary tools and skills for installation. Some units are designed for easy installation with minimal tools, while others may require more effort. Measure your window dimensions and compare them with the unit's specifications to ensure a proper fit. If you are not comfortable with DIY installation, consider hiring a professional.
Additional FeaturesAdditional features can enhance the functionality and convenience of your window AC unit. Common features include remote controls, programmable timers, sleep modes, and energy-saving settings. These features can make the unit more user-friendly and efficient. Think about which features are important to you and how they will impact your daily use. For example, a programmable timer can help you save energy by allowing the unit to turn on and off at specific times, while a remote control adds convenience.

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