Finding the best air conditioner for apt living can be tricky—especially when you’re dealing with limited space, rental restrictions, or buildings without window access. Whether you need a windowless air conditioner for apartments, a quiet portable unit, or an energy-efficient cooler that won’t spike your electricity bill, we’ve got you covered. After testing and comparing top-rated models, we’ve rounded up the seven best air conditioners for apartments that deliver powerful cooling, smart features, and apartment-friendly designs—all without requiring permanent installation.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 7 Best Air Conditioner For Apt Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Best Windowless Air Conditioner for Apartments with 4 Modes, 3 Speeds, and 20-Hour Cooling
This windowless air conditioner is perfect for renters or apartments without traditional window setups. With 4 cooling modes and 3 speed settings, it delivers customizable comfort without drilling holes or permanent modifications.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 3-in-1 evaporative air cooler (fan, cooler, humidifier)
✓ Waterless alert system prevents dry operation
✓ 20-hour continuous runtime on a single fill
✓ 4 modes (Normal, Natural, Sleep, Cooling) + 3 wind speeds
✓ Quiet operation ideal for bedrooms and offices
Why We Recommend It
We love how this unit combines powerful cooling with smart safety features like the waterless warning system. It’s energy-efficient, easy to refill, and works great in dry climates where evaporative cooling is most effective.
Best For
Apartment dwellers in dry or semi-arid regions who want a no-install cooling solution that’s both eco-friendly and budget-conscious.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- No window or venting required
- Energy-efficient compared to compressor-based ACs
- Built-in humidification improves air quality
- Long runtime reduces refill frequency
Cons:
- Less effective in high-humidity environments
- Requires regular water refills during heavy use
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I recently purchased this 3.2 white color water cooling tank fan for my living room, and I couldn’t be happier with the performance and aesthetics. It has excellent cooling performance—keeps my living room temps low even under heavy digital product use.”
Customer Review: “I’ve been using this cooling tank for a few months now, and it performs exactly as advertised. The build quality is solid, the water flow is smooth, and it keeps temperatures stable even under heavy load.”
2. Compact Windowless Air Conditioner for Apartments with Dual Tanks and 16-Hour Runtime
Designed for small spaces and off-grid living, this compact windowless air conditioner uses dual water tanks for extended 16-hour runtime—perfect for campers, tiny homes, or studio apartments.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ All-in-one fan, air cooler, and humidifier
✓ Dual-tank system for longer cooling sessions
✓ 2 modes (Cool/Normal) + 3 speed settings
✓ Intuitive panel + remote control options
✓ Energy-efficient 60W motor
Why We Recommend It
This model stands out for its versatility and portability. Whether you’re using it in a camper, home office, or bedroom, it offers reliable cooling without the noise or bulk of traditional units.
Best For
Tiny homes, RVs, dorm rooms, or anyone needing a lightweight, plug-and-play cooling solution with minimal setup.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Ultra-portable and lightweight
- Dual tanks reduce refill frequency
- Remote control adds convenience
- Low energy consumption
Cons:
- Cooling power limited in very hot climates
- Smaller coverage area than compressor units
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “We bought this for our camper to use as both a regular fan and a cooler. Inside our camper we use it just as a fan and it’s more than powerful enough to keep us comfortable but also quiet enough to not be annoying.”
Customer Review: “I had not heard great things about this type of air conditioner, but I had no choice and I am pleasantly surprised—it cools well, came fast, and I love it!”
3. Best 10,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner for Apartments Up to 450 Square Feet
This 10,000 BTU portable air conditioner delivers real AC cooling for medium-sized apartments without the need for window installation—just vent through a sliding door or drop ceiling.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Cools rooms up to 450 sq. ft.
✓ 3-in-1 function: AC, fan, and dehumidifier
✓ Easy-read display and soft-touch controls
✓ Remote control with sleep mode
✓ Auto-evaporation reduces manual draining
Why We Recommend It
For the price, this unit offers serious cooling power and smart features usually found in higher-end models. It’s quiet, efficient, and ideal for bedrooms or living rooms where central AC isn’t enough.
Best For
Tenants in mid-sized apartments who want real refrigerant-based cooling without permanent modifications or high energy bills.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Strong cooling for the price
- No window needed (vents through door/ceiling)
- Dehumidifier function helps in humid climates
- Quiet operation for nighttime use
Cons:
- Requires occasional hose venting
- Heavier than evaporative coolers
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “My bedroom is above our garage with a large south-facing window. This means it gets super hot no matter the central AC setting. So instead of spending a fortune on electric, I added this portable unit—and I really didn’t want a window unit.”
Customer Review: “I love everything about this! It’s quiet, energy-efficient, offers 2 speeds, and really puts out cold air. The remote is easy to use, and the temperature controls let you set it and forget it.”
4. Best Evaporative Air Cooler for Apartments with 3-in-1 Function and 12-Hour Timer
This sleek evaporative cooler combines fan, humidifier, and air conditioning functions in one compact design—ideal for dry climates and small apartments.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 3-in-1: air cooler, humidifier, floor fan
✓ Touch panel + infrared remote control
✓ Smart low-water alert system
✓ 12-hour timer for scheduled cooling
✓ Oscillation and multi-speed settings
Why We Recommend It
It’s stylish, efficient, and packed with user-friendly features like the remote and water alert. Perfect for offices or bedrooms where quiet, consistent airflow matters.
Best For
Small apartments in arid regions where humidity is low and evaporative cooling is most effective.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Modern design fits any decor
- Remote control adds convenience
- No installation required
- Energy-efficient operation
Cons:
- Not suitable for humid climates
- Requires regular water refills
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This thing packs a punch! Works great, especially if you use ice packs in the bottom tray. Perfect for my work room!”
Customer Review: “The size fits perfectly in my office, and I love that it doesn’t leak everywhere! Filling is super easy, and the remote makes it so much more convenient.”
5. Quiet Windowless Air Conditioner for Apartments with 15-Hour Timer and 120° Oscillation
Engineered for silence and efficiency, this windowless air conditioner features turbo airflow technology and a large 2-gallon tank for all-day cooling.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 3-in-1: air cooler, humidifier, fan
✓ Internal turbo technology for stronger airflow
✓ 2-gallon water tank (up to 10 hours runtime)
✓ 120° oscillation covers wider areas
✓ 15-hour programmable timer
Why We Recommend It
It’s one of the quietest models we tested, making it perfect for light sleepers or home offices. The oscillation ensures even cooling across the room.
Best For
Bedrooms, studios, or quiet workspaces where noise is a concern and window installation isn’t an option.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely quiet operation
- Wide oscillation spreads cool air evenly
- Large tank reduces refill frequency
- No installation needed
Cons:
- Less effective in humid weather
- Bulky design may not fit tight spaces
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I finally found this evaporative air cooler on Amazon. Its design is avant-garde and beautiful, and it can be moved anytime. There’s not much noise—it’s very quiet.”
Customer Review: “Decent price, came with everything described! Really enjoyed it. Keeps my room cool, not too loud, three speeds—works great!”
6. Whynter Portable Air Conditioner 14,000 BTU with Dual Hose Dehumidifier & Cooling Fan for 500 Sq Ft
Winner of Good Housekeeping’s 2025 “Best Overall Portable Air Conditioner,” this 14,000 BTU powerhouse cools large apartments efficiently with dual-hose technology.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Award-winning design and performance
✓ Dual-hose system for balanced pressure
✓ Built-in dehumidifier with auto-drain
✓ Cools up to 500 sq. ft.
✓ Operates as low as 51 dBA (quiet for bedrooms)
Why We Recommend It
This is one of the most reliable and powerful portable ACs on the market. The dual-hose design improves efficiency and reduces warm air recirculation.
Best For
Large apartments or open-concept spaces where strong, consistent cooling is needed without window installation.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- High BTU output for large rooms
- Dual-hose prevents negative pressure
- Auto-drain reduces maintenance
- Quiet for its power level
Cons:
- Heavy and bulky
- Higher upfront cost
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “The unit is heavy, but I managed to get it into my house just fine. It’s large and takes up room, so pay attention to measurements. Overall, an excellent machine!”
Customer Review: “This air conditioner changed our lives! I was careful to research before buying, and it exceeded expectations.”
7. Best 14,300 BTU Window Air Conditioner for Apartments Up to 700 Square Feet
If your apartment allows window units, this 14,300 BTU model offers powerful cooling for large spaces up to 700 sq. ft.—ideal for open layouts or combined living areas.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Cools rooms up to 700 sq. ft.
✓ Full-function remote with sleep mode
✓ Four operating levels (auto, low, medium, high)
✓ Energy-efficient design
✓ Easy installation with included kit
Why We Recommend It
It’s a no-frills, high-performance window unit that gets the job done. Great for renters who have landlord approval and want reliable, strong cooling.
Best For
Apartments with standard windows where installation is permitted and large-room cooling is needed.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- High BTU for large coverage
- Remote control with sleep mode
- Affordable for its power
- Quick cooling response
Cons:
- Requires window access and installation
- May not be allowed in all rentals
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “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 be!”
Complete Buying Guide for Best Air Conditioner For Apt
Essential Factors We Consider
When choosing the best air conditioner for apt living, we evaluate cooling capacity (BTUs), installation requirements, noise level, energy efficiency, and whether the unit works without windows. We also consider portability, smart features like timers and remotes, and real-world performance in typical apartment conditions.
Budget Planning
Prices range from under $150 for basic evaporative coolers to over $500 for high-end portable ACs. Set a budget based on your needs: evaporative coolers are cheaper to run but only work in dry climates, while compressor-based units offer stronger cooling at a higher cost.
Final Thoughts
The right air conditioner for your apartment depends on your space, climate, and rental rules. Windowless options offer flexibility, while portable and window units deliver more power. Prioritize quiet operation, ease of use, and energy efficiency to get the best long-term value.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use an air conditioner in an apartment without windows?
A: Yes! Windowless air conditioners like evaporative coolers or portable units with alternative venting (e.g., through doors or drop ceilings) are perfect for windowless apartments.
Q: What’s the difference between evaporative coolers and portable ACs?
A: Evaporative coolers use water and airflow to cool and humidify air—best for dry climates. Portable ACs use refrigerants like traditional systems and work in any humidity but require venting.
Q: How many BTUs do I need for my apartment?
A: For every 50–60 sq. ft., you need about 1,000 BTUs. A 400 sq. ft. studio needs around 8,000 BTUs, while a 700 sq. ft. one-bedroom may need 14,000 BTUs.
Q: Are portable air conditioners noisy?
A: Most modern portable ACs operate between 50–60 dBA—similar to a quiet conversation. Look for models under 55 dBA for bedroom use.
Q: Do I need landlord approval to install an air conditioner?
A: Always check your lease. Window and portable units may require permission, especially if drilling or structural changes are involved.
Ready to beat the heat without breaking the rules? Whether you need a windowless air conditioner for apartments, a quiet portable unit, or a powerful BTU-rated cooler, our top picks offer real solutions for renters and city dwellers alike. Click any “Check Price” button above to find the best air conditioner for apt living—and start enjoying cooler, more comfortable days today!