Looking for the best window air conditioner to keep your home cool and comfortable this summer? You’re in the right place. Window AC units are a popular, cost-effective solution for cooling single rooms or small spaces—offering powerful performance, easy installation, and energy-efficient operation. Whether you’re cooling a bedroom, home office, or apartment, choosing the right model depends on room size, noise level, smart features, and budget. In this expert-reviewed roundup, we’ve tested and compared the top-performing window air conditioners on the market to help you find the perfect fit for your needs.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 7 Best Window Air Conditioner Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. BLACK+DECKER 14,300 BTU Window Air Conditioner with Remote Control for Rooms up to 700 Sq. Ft.
This powerful BLACK+DECKER model is ideal for large spaces like living rooms or open-concept apartments. With 14,300 BTUs, it cools rooms up to 700 square feet quickly and efficiently. The included remote and multiple fan speeds make it easy to customize comfort levels throughout the day.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 14,300 BTU cooling power for large rooms
- ✓ Full-function remote with sleep mode
- ✓ Four operating modes: Auto, Low, Medium, High
- ✓ Energy-efficient design with durable build
Why We Recommend It
We picked this as our Best Choice because it delivers strong, consistent cooling even in hot climates, and the remote control adds convenience. It’s reliable, easy to install, and perfect for daily use in bigger spaces.
Best For
Large bedrooms, living rooms, or studio apartments up to 700 sq. ft. where powerful, no-fuss cooling is a must.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent cooling performance for large areas
- Remote control with intuitive settings
- Sturdy construction and reliable operation
- Energy-efficient for its size
Cons:
- Slightly heavier than smaller units (requires two people for installation)
- No smart Wi-Fi connectivity
Customer Reviews
“Excellent price and works flawlessly. Multiple settings and remote. Cools entire room quickly to set temp. Highly recommend.”
“5 stars for how well this works, it is keeping the laundry room/kitchen area cool like it should be happening. Because some complained of dents in the AC I will say this… our unit has a dent in the grating on the side however because there is no damage to the box this damage occurred at the factory thu”
2. Frigidaire 12,000 BTU Smart Wi-Fi Window AC with Remote and Quiet Operation for 550 Sq. Ft.
The Frigidaire Smart Wi-Fi AC brings modern convenience to window cooling. With app control, Alexa/Google compatibility, and quiet operation, it’s perfect for tech-savvy users who want comfort at their fingertips. It cools up to 550 sq. ft. efficiently.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Wi-Fi enabled with Frigidaire app and voice control
- ✓ 6-way directional airflow and 3 fan speeds
- ✓ Clean Filter alert for easy maintenance
- ✓ Quiet operation ideal for bedrooms
Why We Recommend It
We named this our Editor’s Choice for its smart features, quiet performance, and reliable cooling. Being able to adjust the temperature from your phone or with voice commands is a game-changer, especially during heatwaves.
Best For
Medium to large bedrooms, home offices, or apartments where smart home integration and quiet operation are priorities.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Smart Wi-Fi and app control
- Very quiet during operation
- Easy setup and responsive remote
- Energy-efficient with eco mode
Cons:
- Some users report it can be noisy on high fan speed
- App setup may require patience for first-time users
Customer Reviews
“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…”
“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.”
3. BLACK+DECKER 12,000 BTU Window Air Conditioner with Remote Control for Rooms up to 550 Sq. Ft.
This BLACK+DECKER model offers excellent value without sacrificing performance. With 12,000 BTUs, it cools medium to large rooms efficiently and includes a remote for easy adjustments. It’s a solid pick for anyone looking for reliable cooling on a budget.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 12,000 BTU for rooms up to 550 sq. ft.
- ✓ Full-function remote with sleep mode
- ✓ Four cooling levels and auto mode
- ✓ Affordable price with strong build quality
Why We Recommend It
We chose this as the Best Budget option because it delivers near-top-tier performance at a fraction of the cost. It’s perfect for renters or homeowners who want effective cooling without overspending.
Best For
Master bedrooms, dens, or medium-sized living areas where cost-effectiveness and reliability matter most.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Great price-to-performance ratio
- Remote control included
- Easy to install and operate
- Durable and long-lasting
Cons:
- No smart features
- Louder on high settings
Customer Reviews
“Excellent price and works flawlessly. Multiple settings and remote. Cools entire room quickly to set temp. Highly recommend.”
“5 stars for how well this works, it is keeping the laundry room/kitchen area cool like it should be happening. Because some complained of dents in the AC I will say this… our unit has a dent in the grating on the side however because there is no damage to the box this damage occurred at the factory thu”
4. BLACK+DECKER 8,000 BTU Window Air Conditioner with Remote Control for Rooms up to 350 Sq. Ft.
This compact BLACK+DECKER unit is ideal for small to medium rooms like bedrooms or home offices. With 8,000 BTUs, it cools up to 350 sq. ft. efficiently and includes a remote for added convenience.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 8,000 BTU for rooms up to 350 sq. ft.
- ✓ Remote control with sleep mode
- ✓ Four operating modes including Auto and Low
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to install
Why We Recommend It
This is a reliable, no-frills AC that gets the job done. It’s energy-efficient, quiet enough for nighttime use, and perfect for smaller spaces where overpowered units aren’t needed.
Best For
Small bedrooms, guest rooms, or apartments under 350 sq. ft. where space and efficiency are key.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight
- Includes remote control
- Energy-efficient operation
- Affordable and reliable
Cons:
- Not suitable for large rooms
- Basic features only
Customer Reviews
“Excellent price and works flawlessly. Multiple settings and remote. Cools entire room quickly to set temp. Highly recommend.”
“5 stars for how well this works, it is keeping the laundry room/kitchen area cool like it should be happening. Because some complained of dents in the AC I will say this… our unit has a dent in the grating on the side however because there is no damage to the box this damage occurred at the factory thu”
5. Memorex 5,000 BTU Window Air Conditioner with Quiet Operation for Rooms up to 150 Sq. Ft.
The Memorex 5,000 BTU unit is perfect for tiny spaces like dorm rooms, small bedrooms, or sunrooms. It’s compact, quiet, and easy to install, making it a great choice for light cooling needs.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 5,000 BTU for rooms up to 150 sq. ft.
- ✓ 3-in-1 function: Cool, Fan, and Dry modes
- ✓ Simple mechanical controls with 7 cooling levels
- ✓ Ultra-quiet operation
Why We Recommend It
This is one of the most compact and quiet window ACs available. It’s ideal for small spaces where noise is a concern, and the dry mode helps reduce humidity during muggy weather.
Best For
Small bedrooms, dorm rooms, or offices under 150 sq. ft. where quiet, efficient cooling is essential.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Very quiet during operation
- Compact and lightweight
- Includes dry mode for humidity control
- Easy to install and use
Cons:
- Too small for medium or large rooms
- Limited features compared to higher-end models
Customer Reviews
“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”
“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”
6. LG 7,600 BTU Window Air Conditioner with Heat and Remote for 330 Sq. Ft. Bedrooms
This LG model doubles as both an air conditioner and a heater, making it a year-round climate solution. With 7,600 BTUs, it cools rooms up to 330 sq. ft. and includes a remote and low-noise operation.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ AC and heater combo for year-round use
- ✓ 2 cooling, heating, and fan speeds
- ✓ Operates as low as 52dB in low mode
- ✓ Remote control with real-time display
Why We Recommend It
This is one of the few window units that offers both cooling and heating, making it ideal for climates with fluctuating temperatures. The quiet operation and reliable performance from a trusted brand like LG make it a standout.
Best For
Bedrooms or small living spaces in regions with cold winters and hot summers where dual-function climate control is valuable.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Heating and cooling in one unit
- Quiet operation
- Reliable LG build quality
- Remote with clear display
Cons:
- Higher price point than basic ACs
- Installation may require extra support due to weight
Customer Reviews
“The media could not be loaded. No assembly required btw. This is a A+++ ccu unit I call it. Climate control unit. Because in a few minutes you can easily go from heating to air conditioning back to heating in moments again. Isn’t new technology as a kid I lived with a heat pump but that was thousands…”
“I own Tecopa Palms Thermoplastic Hot Springs Resort located on the Southern edge of the ‘very hot’ and sometimes ‘cold’ Mojave desert. I bought 2 of these ac/ heater units – 2 years ago and installed 1 in each of 2 cabins. Perfect. From cold to hot they are the real deal. The control panel is easy…”
7. Kenmore KM8K-R 8,000 BTU Window Air Conditioner for Medium Rooms up to 350 Sq. Ft. – Quiet Cooling
The Kenmore KM8K-R delivers powerful 8,000 BTU cooling for medium-sized rooms with quiet operation and digital controls. It includes multiple modes and a remote for easy adjustments.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 8,000 BTU for rooms up to 350 sq. ft.
- ✓ Sleep, Auto, Eco, and Cooling modes
- ✓ Digital touch panel and remote control
- ✓ Quiet cooling technology
Why We Recommend It
This Kenmore model stands out for its quiet performance and user-friendly digital interface. It’s a reliable, well-built unit that keeps medium rooms cool without the noise.
Best For
Medium bedrooms, home offices, or small living rooms where quiet, efficient cooling is a priority.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Very quiet operation
- Multiple energy-saving modes
- Easy-to-use digital controls
- Reliable Kenmore brand
Cons:
- Filter can be tricky to clean
- No smart features
Customer Reviews
“Incredibly cold output even in our desert climate, so much better than my last name brand a/c. Plan to buy another for backup if it continues to perform so well.”
“Works well. Filter a little hard to clean because it has plastic ridges in the middle. But maybe that makes it more sturdy.”
Complete Buying Guide for Window Air Conditioners
Essential Factors We Consider
When selecting the best window air conditioner, we evaluate several key factors: BTU rating (must match room size), noise level (measured in decibels), energy efficiency (look for ENERGY STAR models), smart features (Wi-Fi, app control), ease of installation, and durability. We also consider real customer feedback and long-term reliability to ensure our recommendations stand the test of time.
Budget Planning
Window AC prices range from under $200 for basic 5,000–8,000 BTU models to over $500 for smart or dual-function units. Set a budget based on your room size and needs. Remember: a higher BTU doesn’t always mean better—oversized units cycle too quickly and waste energy. Stick to the recommended BTU per square foot for optimal performance.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right window air conditioner can make all the difference in comfort and energy savings. Whether you need a budget-friendly cooler for a small room or a smart, high-powered unit for a large space, our top picks offer something for everyone. Prioritize your needs—size, noise, features, and price—and you’ll stay cool all summer long.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I calculate the right BTU for my room?
A: As a general rule, you need about 20 BTUs per square foot. For example, a 300 sq. ft. room needs around 6,000 BTUs. Add 10% more for sunny rooms or kitchens, and subtract 10% for shaded areas.
Q: Are window air conditioners energy efficient?
A: Yes, especially newer models with ENERGY STAR certification. Look for units with high EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio) ratings—12 or higher is excellent. Using eco or sleep modes also helps reduce energy use.
Q: Can I install a window AC myself?
A: Most window units are designed for DIY installation with basic tools. Always ensure your window frame is sturdy, use support brackets if needed, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
Q: Do window ACs need regular maintenance?
A: Yes. Clean or replace the air filter monthly during heavy use, check for dust buildup on coils, and ensure the drain hole is clear to prevent water leaks.
Q: Can I use a window AC in winter?
A: Only if it has a heating function (like the LG model above). Standard ACs are cooling-only. For winter, remove the unit or cover it to prevent drafts and damage.
Ready to beat the heat? Our top-rated best window air conditioner picks offer reliable cooling, smart features, and great value. Click any “Check Price” button to compare current deals and find the perfect unit for your home today!