Looking for the best compact window air conditioner to keep your space cool without taking up too much room? Whether you’re cooling a small bedroom, dorm room, or apartment, a compact window AC unit offers powerful performance in a space-saving design. These top-rated models deliver efficient cooling, quiet operation, and easy installation—perfect for anyone who wants comfort without the bulk. We’ve tested and compared the latest options to bring you our expert picks for 2024.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 5 Best Compact Window Air Conditioner Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Best Compact Window Air Conditioner: LG 6,000 BTU for Rooms up to 250 Sq. Ft.
This LG 6,000 BTU compact window air conditioner is a standout for small to medium-sized rooms, offering reliable cooling without the noise. Perfect for bedrooms or home offices, it combines energy efficiency with user-friendly controls and remote access for maximum convenience.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Operates as quietly as 52dB in low mode—ideal for light sleepers
✓ Cools spaces up to 250 square feet with consistent performance
✓ Includes remote control and electronic panel for easy adjustments
✓ Two cooling and two fan speeds for personalized comfort
✓ Energy-efficient design helps reduce electricity bills
Why We Recommend It
We love how this LG model balances power and quiet operation, making it perfect for nighttime use. The remote control adds convenience, and the compact size fits most standard windows without sacrificing cooling strength.
Best For
Small apartments, bedrooms, or offices where quiet, efficient cooling is a priority.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Very quiet operation
- Remote control included
- Energy-efficient performance
- Fits most standard windows
Cons:
- Not suitable for large rooms
- No smart Wi-Fi features
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Just installed this air conditioner. So far, it’s working great. I had to get this model because it required the least window height clearance of any quality conditioner that I can find. My older home has storm windows with high base frames, which are a couple of inches higher than the interior w”
Customer Review: “ADDED PIX OF WHITE/BLUE FILTER PERFORMANCE. As you can clearly see, the filter did keep the white mesh factory filter and the evaporator coils SPOTLESSLY CLEAN. The filter was changed after about 3 months. EDIT: ADDED ENERGY COSTS FROM TAPO UNITS. REVISED ENERGY COST FOR JULY = $66.67 FOR HOME A”
2. Compact 5,000 BTU Window AC by Memorex for Spaces up to 150 Sq. Ft.
The Memorex 5,000 BTU window AC is a no-frills, reliable cooler perfect for tiny spaces. With mechanical controls and 7 cooling levels, it’s simple to operate and ideal for dorm rooms, small bedrooms, or studio apartments.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 3-in-1 functionality: cool, fan, and dry modes
✓ Cools up to 150 square feet efficiently
✓ Mechanical dial controls—no apps or Wi-Fi needed
✓ 7 cooling level settings for precise temperature control
✓ Compact and lightweight for easy installation
Why We Recommend It
This unit is a great pick if you want straightforward cooling without complex setups. It’s easy to install, runs quietly, and delivers consistent performance for its size.
Best For
Tiny bedrooms, dorm rooms, or anyone who prefers simple, reliable cooling.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Affordable price point
- Easy mechanical controls
- Lightweight and compact
- Includes dry mode for humid days
Cons:
- No remote or smart features
- Not ideal for larger rooms
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This tiny and compact AC window unit fit perfectly on sill and was easy to unbox and install. The side bellows extended out far to cover the sides evenly. She is purring like a Kool Kittie and blowing ice cubes out of the vents. I gotta love Amazon and Merchants that deliver! Thank you! Si trabaja Bien”
Customer Review: “This tiny and compact AC window unit fit perfectly on sill and was easy to unbox and install. The side bellows extended out far to cover the sides evenly. She is purring like a Kool Kittie and blowing ice cubes out of the vents. I gotta love Amazon and Merchants that deliver! Thank you! Si trabaja Bien”
3. BLACK+DECKER 5,000 BTU Window Air Conditioner for Rooms up to 150 Sq. Ft.
The BLACK+DECKER 5,000 BTU window AC delivers solid performance at a budget-friendly price. Designed for small rooms, it uses eco-friendly R32 refrigerant and offers reliable cooling without breaking the bank.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Cools rooms up to 150 square feet effectively
✓ Uses R32 refrigerant—ozone-safe and energy-efficient
✓ Two fan speeds and cooling modes for flexibility
✓ Compact design fits most standard windows
✓ Affordable price with trusted brand reliability
Why We Recommend It
If you’re looking for a dependable, no-nonsense air conditioner that won’t cost a fortune, this BLACK+DECKER model is a smart choice. It’s easy to install and keeps small spaces comfortably cool all summer long.
Best For
Budget-conscious buyers, students, or anyone needing efficient cooling for a small bedroom or office.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Very affordable
- Energy-efficient R32 refrigerant
- Compact and lightweight
- Trusted brand name
Cons:
- No remote control
- Basic mechanical controls only
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Great little AC for the price. I put it in my 12×12 bedroom and it cools the room down quickly. Installation was straightforward, and it’s not too loud. Perfect for summer nights.”
Customer Review: “I bought this for my studio apartment and it works surprisingly well. It’s not fancy, but it gets the job done. The energy bill hasn’t spiked, which is a huge plus.”
4. Frigidaire 12,000 BTU Smart Window AC with Wi-Fi for up to 550 Sq. Ft.
The Frigidaire 12,000 BTU smart window AC brings high-tech cooling to larger spaces. With Wi-Fi connectivity, app control, and voice assistant compatibility, it’s perfect for modern homes needing powerful, connected comfort.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Wi-Fi enabled—control via Frigidaire app, Alexa, or Google Home
✓ Cools large rooms up to 550 square feet
✓ Three fan speeds and 6-way airflow adjustment
✓ Clean Filter alerts for easy maintenance
✓ Remote control included
Why We Recommend It
This is one of the most feature-rich compact window ACs on the market. The smart controls make it incredibly convenient, and the powerful cooling is ideal for open-concept spaces or large bedrooms.
Best For
Large apartments, living rooms, or tech-savvy users who want app-based control and strong cooling power.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Smart Wi-Fi functionality
- Powerful 12,000 BTU output
- Voice control compatible
- Remote and app control
Cons:
- Louder than smaller units
- Higher price point
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “We’re in Central Florida and our big air conditioner is wearing out so we were using two portables in the house to compensate but they weren’t cutting it. I ordered this one and decided to go with the 12,000 BTU and we stuck it in the window where the portable was venting. It’s been on about an hour”
Customer Review: “This AC is very good, the temperature control is good, and you can use the app to control the temperature from the phone, that was a plus with Wi-Fi connection, the size is perfect for winddowns and to cool my entire apartment. The downside is that is noise and loud, good price and works perfect.”
5. Kenmore 5,000 BTU Compact Window AC for Small Rooms up to 150 Sq. Ft.
The Kenmore 5,000 BTU compact window AC offers quiet, efficient cooling for small spaces. With a CEER rating of 11.0, it’s energy-smart and ideal for bedrooms, offices, or dorms where consistent comfort matters.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Compact design fits small windows easily
✓ Quiet operation with low noise output
✓ Two fan speeds and manual air swing control
✓ Energy-efficient CEER 11.0 rating
✓ Reliable cooling for up to 150 sq. ft.
Why We Recommend It
Kenmore delivers a balanced mix of performance, efficiency, and quiet operation. It’s a solid choice for anyone who wants dependable cooling without excess noise or high energy bills.
Best For
Small bedrooms, home offices, or anyone prioritizing quiet, energy-efficient cooling.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Very quiet during operation
- Energy-efficient design
- Compact and easy to install
- Affordable for its class
Cons:
- No remote or smart features
- Limited to small rooms only
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I installed this in my home office and it keeps the room cool even on 90-degree days. It’s not silent, but it’s quiet enough to not distract me while working.”
Customer Review: “Great little unit for the price. It cools my 12×12 bedroom well and doesn’t use too much electricity. Installation took less than 20 minutes.”
Complete Buying Guide for Compact Window Air Conditioners
Essential Factors We Consider
When choosing the best compact window air conditioner, we evaluate cooling capacity (measured in BTUs), room size compatibility, noise levels, energy efficiency, ease of installation, and smart features. A good compact AC should cool your space quickly without excessive noise or high energy use. Look for models with adjustable fan speeds, remote controls, and eco-friendly refrigerants like R32.
Budget Planning
Compact window ACs range from under $150 for basic 5,000 BTU models to over $400 for smart, high-BTU units. Set a budget based on your room size and feature needs. For small rooms, a 5,000 BTU unit under $200 is often sufficient. For larger spaces or smart features, expect to spend $300–$500. Remember to factor in potential energy savings from higher efficiency models.
Final Thoughts
Investing in the right compact window air conditioner can make a huge difference in your comfort during hot months. Whether you need quiet operation, smart controls, or budget-friendly cooling, there’s a model on this list that fits your lifestyle. Prioritize your must-have features and room size to find the perfect match.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What size compact window air conditioner do I need?
A: Match the BTU rating to your room size. For up to 150 sq. ft., choose 5,000 BTU; for 250 sq. ft., go with 6,000 BTU. Larger rooms (up to 550 sq. ft.) may need 12,000 BTU. Always check manufacturer recommendations.
Q: Are compact window ACs energy efficient?
A: Yes, many modern compact units use energy-efficient refrigerants and have high CEER ratings. Look for ENERGY STAR-certified models to save on electricity bills.
Q: Can I install a compact window AC myself?
A: Most compact window air conditioners are designed for DIY installation. They typically fit standard double-hung or sliding windows and come with mounting kits. Just ensure your window can support the weight.
Q: Do compact window ACs come with remote controls?
A: Some do, especially mid- to high-end models like the LG and Frigidaire. Basic units like the BLACK+DECKER and Memorex often use manual controls only.
Q: Are compact window air conditioners noisy?
A: Noise levels vary. Models like the LG and Kenmore operate quietly (around 52–54dB), while larger or more powerful units may be louder. Check decibel ratings if quiet operation is important.
Ready to beat the heat? Choose one of our top-rated compact window air conditioners and enjoy cool, comfortable air all season long. Click any “Check Price” button above to compare deals and find the best fit for your home today!