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10 Best Room Air Conditioners 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

9.9 score

Midea 12,000 BTU Smart Inverter Air Conditioner Window Unit with Heat and Dehumidifier – Cools up to 550 Sq. Ft., Energy Star Rated, Quiet Operation, Electronic Controls, Remote Control, White

The Midea 12,000 BTU Smart Inverter Air Conditioner efficiently cools rooms up to 550 square feet, featuring inverter technology that helps reduce electricity costs with an Energy Star rating and a SEER of 13.3. It offers heating and dehumidifying functions, making it practical for multiple seasons, though the heating function is not effective below 41°F. The unit operates quietly at about 45 dB, making it suitable for bedrooms or workspaces.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,289
Noise Level
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Installation Type

Most important from
17404 reviews

Noise Level
This air conditioner runs incredibly quietly, making it barely noticeable even when the compressor kicks in, ideal for bedrooms or workspaces.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
The inverter technology delivers efficient cooling rapidly, with daily energy consumption significantly lower than comparable units.
Installation Type
Installation can be challenging due to the unit's weight, and some firmware versions affect performance in low temperatures differently.
Smart Features
The smart features, including WiFi connectivity and app control, add convenience, though some firmware inconsistencies exist between units.
Cooling Capacity (BTUs)
The unit is well-suited for summer use and medium to large rooms, offering versatile modes, but internal sealing issues can allow outside air infiltration, impacting heating efficiency and humidity control.
#2
9.8 score

Midea 12,000 BTU EasyCool Window Air Conditioner, Dehumidifier and Fan - Cool, Circulate and Dehumidify up to 550 Sq. Ft., Reusable Filter, Remote Control

The Midea 12,000 BTU EasyCool Window Air Conditioner is designed to cool rooms ranging from approximately 350 to 550 square feet, making it suitable for medium-sized rooms, apartments, or offices. It features three modes: cooling, fan-only air circulation with three speeds, and a dehumidifier function that reduces moisture without cooling. The unit has an energy efficiency ratio (EER) indicated by its SEER of 12 and includes eco-friendly options like an Eco mode and a timer to help conserve electricity. Operating noise is about 55 decibels, quieter than a typical household refrigerator, so it is unlikely to be disruptive. Installation is straightforward for standard window sizes, with all mounting hardware included, requiring only a screwdriver. The reusable air filter traps dust and pet hair and is easy to clean and maintain.

Rating
9.8
Cooling Capacity (BTUs)
Noise Level
Installation Type

Most important from
17404 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTUs)
The unit cools better than any other AC I've had and comes at a great price.
Noise Level
While not silent, the operating noise blends into a tolerable background white noise without disruptive buzzing.
Installation Type
Installation is straightforward, even in challenging window setups, with all necessary hardware included.
Smart Features
The remote control adds convenience and the unit effectively cools medium-sized rooms.
#3
9.7 score

BLACK+DECKER Smart Portable Air Conditioner with Heat, 14,000 BTU (10,200 BTU SACC) Cooling, 12,000 BTU Heating for Rooms up to 700 Sq. Ft., Follow Me Remote, BPACT14HWT, White

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.

Rating
9.7
Cooling Capacity (BTUs)
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Noise Level

Most important from
43634 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.

Top 10 Best Room Air Conditioners 2025 in the United States

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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.

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