Looking to beat the heat without breaking the bank or dealing with complicated installations? A window air conditioner might be your perfect summer solution. These compact cooling units are ideal for single rooms, easy to install, and come in a variety of sizes and features to match your space and budget. Whether you’re cooling a cozy bedroom, a home office, or a larger living area, there’s a window AC designed for your needs. In this roundup, we’ve tested and compared the top-performing models to help you find the best fit for comfort, efficiency, and value.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 7 Air Conditioner Window Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Amazon Basics 5000 BTU Window Air Conditioner for Rooms up to 150 Sq Ft with Washable Filter
This no-frills window air conditioner from Amazon Basics delivers reliable cooling for small spaces without the premium price tag. Perfect for bedrooms or home offices under 150 square feet, it’s a solid pick if you want straightforward operation and easy maintenance.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 5000 BTU cooling capacity ideal for rooms up to 150 sq ft
✓ Washable and reusable air filter for easy cleaning
✓ 7 temperature settings with 2-speed fan control
✓ 2-way air direction for better airflow control
✓ Simple mechanical dial controls—no app needed
Why We Recommend It
We love this unit for its simplicity and value. It cools quickly, runs quietly for its size, and the washable filter saves money over time. While it’s not the quietest on high, it’s a dependable workhorse for daily use.
Best For
Small rooms, renters, or anyone needing an affordable, no-hassle window AC that gets the job done.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Affordable price point
- Easy to install and operate
- Washable filter reduces long-term costs
- Compact design fits most standard windows
Cons:
- Can be noisy on high fan setting
- No remote control included
- Limited cooling range—only for small spaces
Customer Reviews
“These are noisy little boxes that put a great stream of cool air in summer. Use in smaller rooms during day. Very easy to mount in windows that open vertically. Too noisy for night use. Like the simple dial controls.” – Customer Review
“Nice little air conditioner for a decent price!!! It had little dent marks in the radiator cooling side when I opened it up but I tested it and works fine, I’m satisfied!!!” – Customer Review
2. Midea 5000 BTU Window AC Unit for Small Rooms up to 150 Sq Ft with Reusable Filter
Midea brings energy efficiency and quiet operation to the small-room cooling game. This 5000 BTU window AC is perfect for compact spaces and stands out with its low noise level and eco-friendly design.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 5000 BTU cooling for rooms up to 150 sq ft
✓ Energy-efficient with CEER rating of 11.0
✓ Quieter than a household refrigerator
✓ Reusable washable filter
✓ Mechanical controls with 7 temperature settings
Why We Recommend It
This unit impressed us with how quietly it runs—even on medium settings. It cools efficiently without spiking your electricity bill, making it ideal for nighttime use or energy-conscious households.
Best For
Bedrooms, studios, or anyone prioritizing quiet operation and energy savings in a small space.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Very quiet operation
- Energy-efficient performance
- Easy installation and setup
- Affordable maintenance with reusable filter
Cons:
- No remote or smart features
- Heat function limited below 41°F
- Basic design lacks modern aesthetics
Customer Reviews
“I really like this unit. It has efficient heating and cooling. It’s easy to install. Quiet and does a good job. The heat pump will shut off when it’s below 41°F.” – Customer Review
“This is not the top-rated U-shaped Midea model, but it still performs well. I’ve owned both styles and this traditional one holds its own for the price.” – Customer Review
3. BLACK+DECKER 8000 BTU Window Air Conditioner with Remote and 3 Cooling Speeds for 350 Sq Ft
BLACK+DECKER delivers big cooling power at a budget-friendly price. This 8000 BTU window AC covers medium-sized rooms and includes a full-function remote—making it a rare find in the affordable segment.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 8000 BTU cooling for rooms up to 350 sq ft
✓ Full-function remote with sleep mode
✓ 3 cooling speeds and 4 operational modes (Auto, Cool, Fan, Dry)
✓ Easy-to-clean washable filter
✓ Compact design fits most standard windows
Why We Recommend It
For the price, this unit offers surprising features like a remote and multiple fan speeds. It cools quickly and maintains consistent temperatures, making it a standout value pick.
Best For
Medium-sized bedrooms, apartments, or anyone wanting remote control without paying premium prices.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Includes remote control
- Good cooling performance for the price
- Multiple speed and mode options
- Easy installation
Cons:
- Some units arrive with minor cosmetic dents
- Fan can be loud on high setting
- Not Wi-Fi enabled
Customer Reviews
“Excellent price and works flawlessly. Multiple settings and remote. Cools entire room quickly to set temp. Highly recommend.” – Customer Review
“5 stars for how well this works. It’s keeping the laundry room/kitchen area cool like it should. Our unit has a dent in the grating, but no damage to the box—so it happened at the factory.” – Customer Review
4. Hisense 8000 BTU Smart Inverter Window AC for 350 Sq Ft with 4-Way Air Direction
Hisense steps up the game with smart inverter technology and app control. This sleek window AC offers powerful, efficient cooling and modern convenience for medium-sized spaces.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 8000 BTU inverter compressor for energy-efficient cooling
✓ Wi-Fi enabled with ConnectLife app control
✓ 4-way air direction (Cool, Fan, Dry, Eco)
✓ Ultra-slim profile saves window space
✓ Low noise operation even on high
Why We Recommend It
The inverter technology keeps energy use down while maintaining steady temperatures. Plus, being able to adjust settings from your phone is a game-changer for comfort and convenience.
Best For
Tech-savvy users, open floor plans, or anyone wanting smart features and consistent cooling in a 350 sq ft area.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Energy-efficient inverter technology
- Smart app control via Wi-Fi
- Quiet and powerful performance
- Sleek, space-saving design
Cons:
- Higher upfront cost
- App setup can be tricky for some users
- Limited service network in rural areas
Customer Reviews
“This is a very well-performing window unit that delivers on every feature it advertises. The cooling power is strong and consistent. I use it in a bedroom and it handles all our cooling needs with no issue.” – Customer Review
“This unit worked out great for my small kitchen window that was too short for a traditional unit. It’s low noise and cools a living room and kitchen area very well.” – Customer Review
5. BLACK+DECKER 14300 BTU Window Air Conditioner with Remote and 3 Speeds for 700 Sq Ft
When you need serious cooling power, this BLACK+DECKER beast covers up to 700 square feet. It’s ideal for large rooms, open-concept spaces, or even small apartments.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 14,300 BTU cooling capacity for large spaces
✓ Full-function remote with sleep mode
✓ 3 cooling speeds and multiple operating modes
✓ Washable air filter for easy maintenance
✓ Robust build quality
Why We Recommend It
This unit cools fast and maintains comfort even on scorching days. The remote adds convenience, and the build feels durable—perfect for long-term use.
Best For
Large bedrooms, living rooms, or open floor plans up to 700 sq ft.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Powerful cooling for large areas
- Includes remote control
- Multiple speed and mode options
- Reliable performance
Cons:
- Heavy and harder to install alone
- Can be noisy on high
- Takes up more window space
Customer Reviews
“Excellent price and works flawlessly. Multiple settings and remote. Cools entire room quickly to set temp. Highly recommend.” – Customer Review
“5 stars for how well this works. It’s keeping the laundry room/kitchen area cool like it should. Our unit has a dent in the grating, but no damage to the box—so it happened at the factory.” – Customer Review
6. Heavy Duty Waterproof Window AC Cover for Outdoor Units with Adjustable Straps
Don’t overlook winter protection! This heavy-duty cover shields your window AC from rain, snow, and debris during off-season months, helping extend its lifespan and improve efficiency.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Waterproof 600D Oxford fabric with UV resistance
✓ Adjustable straps for secure fit
✓ Blocks cold drafts in winter
✓ Prevents dirt and moisture buildup
✓ Fits most standard window units
Why We Recommend It
A small investment that pays off by protecting your AC from weather damage and reducing heating costs in winter. Easy to install and built to last.
Best For
Anyone leaving their window AC installed year-round or wanting to protect outdoor components during storage.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Durable and weather-resistant
- Easy to install with adjustable straps
- Reduces energy loss in winter
- Affordable protection
Cons:
- Only useful seasonally
- May be slightly oversized for some units
Customer Reviews
“I’m three weeks out from surgery and doubted I’d be able to get this on correctly. The sewn-in straps are adjustable and cinched it into place. Looks much better than trash bags!” – Customer Review
“Looks much better than the trash bags we had been using and will probably last for years.” – Customer Review
7. BLACK+DECKER 10000 BTU Window Air Conditioner with Remote and 3 Cooling Speeds for 450 Sq Ft
Strike the perfect balance between power and price with this 10,000 BTU BLACK+DECKER model. It’s strong enough for master bedrooms or medium living spaces and includes handy remote control.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 10,000 BTU cooling for rooms up to 450 sq ft
✓ Full-function remote with sleep mode
✓ 3 cooling speeds and multiple modes
✓ Washable filter for easy cleaning
✓ Compact and efficient design
Why We Recommend It
This unit offers excellent mid-range performance with user-friendly features. It cools quickly, runs reliably, and the remote makes adjusting settings a breeze.
Best For
Master bedrooms, home offices, or medium-sized living areas needing consistent, convenient cooling.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Great cooling power for mid-sized rooms
- Remote control included
- Good value for features
- Easy to operate and maintain
Cons:
- Can be loud on high fan speed
- Some cosmetic dents reported on delivery
- No smart connectivity
Customer Reviews
“Excellent price and works flawlessly. Multiple settings and remote. Cools entire room quickly to set temp. Highly recommend.” – Customer Review
“5 stars for how well this works. It’s keeping the laundry room/kitchen area cool like it should. Our unit has a dent in the grating, but no damage to the box—so it happened at the factory.” – Customer Review
Complete Buying Guide for Air Conditioner Window
Essential Factors We Consider
When choosing a window air conditioner, start with BTU rating—match it to your room size (e.g., 5000 BTU for 150 sq ft, 10,000 BTU for 450 sq ft). Next, consider energy efficiency (look for CEER ratings), noise level (especially for bedrooms), and ease of installation. Features like remote controls, washable filters, and smart connectivity add convenience but may increase cost.
Budget Planning
Window ACs range from under $150 for basic 5000 BTU models to over $500 for smart inverter units. Set a budget based on room size and must-have features. Don’t forget long-term costs—energy-efficient models save money on electricity, and washable filters reduce replacement expenses.
Final Thoughts
Whether you need quiet cooling for a bedroom or powerful performance for a large space, there’s a window air conditioner that fits your needs. Prioritize reliability, proper sizing, and features that match your lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I know what BTU window AC I need?
A: Match BTU to room size: 5000 BTU for up to 150 sq ft, 8000 BTU for 350 sq ft, 10,000 BTU for 450 sq ft, and 14,300 BTU for 700 sq ft. Larger rooms or sunny spaces may need higher capacity.
Q: Can I leave my window AC installed all year?
A: It’s not recommended. Use a protective cover in winter to prevent drafts and damage. Removing it entirely is best if possible.
Q: Are window air conditioners noisy?
A: Noise levels vary. Most modern units run between 50–60 decibels—quieter than a conversation. Inverter models like the Hisense are especially quiet.
Q: Do I need a special outlet for a window AC?
A: Most 5000–8000 BTU units use standard 115V outlets. Larger units (10,000+ BTU) may require a dedicated 230V circuit—check your model’s specs.
Q: How often should I clean the filter?
A: Clean the washable filter every 2–4 weeks during heavy use to maintain airflow and efficiency.
Ready to stay cool this summer? Our top picks offer something for every space and budget—from compact bedrooms to large living areas. Click any “Check Price” button to compare current deals and find your perfect window air conditioner today!