When the summer heat kicks in, a reliable window air conditioner can be your best friend—especially if you’re looking for an affordable, easy-to-install cooling solution that doesn’t require major home renovations. Whether you’re cooling a cozy bedroom, a home office, or a small apartment, the right window AC unit delivers efficient, targeted comfort without breaking the bank. In this roundup, we’ve tested and reviewed the best window air conditioners on the market, focusing on performance, ease of use, energy efficiency, and real customer feedback to help you make a smart, informed decision.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 7 Best Window Air Conditioners Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Amazon Basics 5000 BTU Window Air Conditioner for Rooms up to 150 Sq Ft
The Amazon Basics 5000 BTU window air conditioner is a no-frills, high-value cooling solution perfect for small spaces. Designed for rooms up to 150 square feet, it’s ideal for bedrooms, studios, or home offices where quiet and efficient cooling matters most.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 5000 BTU cooling capacity for efficient performance in small areas
✓ Washable, reusable air filter that’s easy to clean and maintain
✓ 7 temperature settings with 2-speed fan and cooling modes
✓ 2-way adjustable air direction for better airflow control
Why We Recommend It
This unit delivers reliable cooling at a budget-friendly price, and its simple dial controls make operation intuitive—even for first-time users. While it’s not the quietest on the market, it’s a solid performer for daytime use in smaller rooms.
Best For
Small bedrooms, apartments, or home offices under 150 sq ft where affordability and basic functionality are top priorities.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Affordable price point
- Easy installation in standard vertical-sliding windows
- Low-maintenance washable filter
- Compact and lightweight design
Cons:
- Louder than premium models—not ideal for light sleepers
- Limited remote functionality (manual controls only)
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “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!!!”
2. Universal Window AC Bracket Supports Units up to 85 lbs and 12,000 BTU
Not an air conditioner itself, but an essential accessory for safe installation—this universal window AC bracket supports units up to 85 pounds and 12,000 BTU. It’s a smart investment that protects both your AC and your window frame from stress and damage.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Fits most standard window AC units, including older models
✓ Heavy-duty steel construction with rust-resistant powder coating
✓ Two-piece design with reinforced fins for extra stability
✓ Transfers weight from window sash to building structure
Why We Recommend It
Installing a window AC without proper support can warp windows or even cause the unit to fall. This bracket eliminates that risk with a sturdy, easy-to-install design that gives peace of mind—especially on upper floors.
Best For
Anyone installing a window AC unit over 5,000 BTU, particularly in older homes or multi-story buildings where window strength may be a concern.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Enhances safety and stability
- Easy DIY installation with included hardware
- Durable, weather-resistant finish
- Lightweight yet strong design
Cons:
- Requires basic tools and some handyman skill
- Not compatible with all custom or oversized units
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Had handyman install bracket yesterday, no complaints, and I think installation videos are very helpful. Looks very sturdy, competitive price. Thanks!”
Customer Review: “I’m not handy so I had someone else install it. Installation seemed fairly easy (for him) and the brackets provided the proper support and balance needed for the 3 window air cons. Seems built for durability. Construction/material of the brackets seemed solid. Arrived quickly and with no damage to it.”
3. BLACK+DECKER 14,300 BTU Window Air Conditioner Cools up to 700 Sq Ft
The BLACK+DECKER 14,300 BTU window air conditioner is a powerhouse for large spaces, capable of cooling areas up to 700 square feet. It’s an excellent choice for open-concept living rooms, large bedrooms, or even small apartments where one unit needs to do the heavy lifting.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 14,300 BTU cooling capacity for large rooms and open layouts
✓ Four operating modes: Auto, Low, Medium, High
✓ Full-function remote control with sleep mode and timer
✓ Energy-efficient design with adjustable fan speeds
Why We Recommend It
Despite its budget-friendly price, this unit delivers strong, consistent cooling and includes modern conveniences like a remote and sleep mode. It’s a rare find in the mid-to-high BTU range that doesn’t sacrifice features for cost.
Best For
Large bedrooms, living rooms, or studio apartments up to 700 sq ft where powerful cooling is needed without a premium price tag.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- High cooling output for the price
- Remote control adds convenience
- Multiple fan speeds and modes
- Reliable brand with good customer support
Cons:
- Bulkier and heavier than lower-BTU models
- Can be noisy on high settings
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 and already the room is noticeably cooler.”
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 windowns and to cool my entire apartment. The downside is that it’s noisy and loud, good price and works perfect.”
4. Frigidaire 12,000 BTU Smart Window Air Conditioner with Wi-Fi, Cools Up to 550 Sq. Ft., Remote Control
The Frigidaire 12,000 BTU Smart Window Air Conditioner brings modern convenience to home cooling. With Wi-Fi connectivity, app control, and voice assistant compatibility, it’s perfect for tech-savvy users who want to manage their comfort from anywhere.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Wi-Fi enabled with Frigidaire app, Alexa, and Google Home support
✓ 12,000 BTU cooling for rooms up to 550 sq ft
✓ 6-way directional airflow and 3 fan speeds
✓ Clean Filter alert and remote control included
Why We Recommend It
This unit combines strong cooling performance with smart home integration, making it ideal for those who want to pre-cool their space before arriving home or adjust settings remotely. It’s a great blend of power and innovation.
Best For
Medium to large bedrooms or living areas where smart controls and remote access enhance comfort and convenience.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Smart features add convenience
- Strong cooling for medium-sized rooms
- Easy setup with app and voice control
- Energy-saving modes and alerts
Cons:
- Higher price than non-smart models
- App can be glitchy at times
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “We’re in Central Florida in 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 and already the room is noticeably cooler.”
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 windowns and to cool my entire apartment. The downside is that it’s noisy and loud, good price and works perfect.”
5. BLACK+DECKER 8,000 BTU Window Air Conditioner for Rooms up to 350 Sq Ft
The BLACK+DECKER 8,000 BTU window air conditioner strikes a great balance between power and affordability. Perfect for medium-sized rooms, it cools quickly and efficiently while offering user-friendly features like a remote and multiple fan speeds.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 8,000 BTU cooling for rooms up to 350 sq ft
✓ Four operating modes: Auto, Low, Medium, High
✓ Full-function remote with sleep mode and 24-hour timer
✓ Easy installation with adjustable side panels
Why We Recommend It
This unit delivers reliable performance at a competitive price, with the added convenience of a remote and energy-saving modes. It’s a dependable workhorse for everyday use.
Best For
Medium bedrooms, home offices, or kitchens up to 350 sq ft where consistent cooling and remote control are desired.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Good value for the features
- Remote control adds convenience
- Cools rooms quickly
- Lightweight and easy to install
Cons:
- Can arrive with minor cosmetic dents
- Not the quietest on high speed
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 is keeping the laundry room/kitchen area cool like 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 thus not affecting performance.”
6. BLACK+DECKER 12,000 BTU Window AC Unit with Remote and 3 Cooling Speeds
The BLACK+DECKER 12,000 BTU window AC unit offers powerful cooling for larger spaces, with the convenience of a remote and multiple fan speeds. It’s a solid mid-range option for master bedrooms, living rooms, or open-plan areas.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 12,000 BTU cooling for rooms up to 550 sq ft
✓ Three cooling speeds and four operating modes
✓ Full-function remote with sleep mode and timer
✓ Adjustable airflow direction and washable filter
Why We Recommend It
This unit delivers strong, consistent cooling with user-friendly controls and reliable performance. It’s a great choice for those who want more power than an 8,000 BTU model without stepping up to smart features.
Best For
Large bedrooms, living areas, or master suites up to 550 sq ft where remote control and strong airflow are important.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Strong cooling capacity
- Remote control included
- Multiple fan and cooling modes
- Affordable for its power level
Cons:
- Can be loud on high settings
- May arrive with minor cosmetic imperfections
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 is keeping the laundry room/kitchen area cool like 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 thus not affecting performance.”
7. Outdoor Window Air Conditioner Cover, 21.5 x 16 x 15 Inches, Blue
This outdoor window air conditioner cover protects your unit from winter weather, debris, and cold drafts. Designed to fit most 3,000–7,000 BTU units, it helps extend the life of your AC and improves energy efficiency during off-seasons.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Fits most standard window AC units (21.5″W x 16″D x 15″H)
✓ Heavy-duty waterproof polyester fabric
✓ Blocks cold air, rain, snow, and pests
✓ Easy to install and remove—no tools required
Why We Recommend It
Leaving your AC uncovered in winter can lead to frozen components, drafts, and reduced efficiency. This affordable cover solves that problem and pays for itself in energy savings and extended unit life.
Best For
Anyone leaving their window AC installed year-round, especially in climates with cold winters or high moisture.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Prevents cold drafts and moisture damage
- Lightweight and easy to use
- Affordable protection
- Fits snugly without straps or fasteners
Cons:
- Only fits specific sizes—measure carefully
- Not suitable for extreme wind conditions without additional securing
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Great to cover AC’s so we can keep them in the windows all year round.”
Customer Review: “I bought this about 4 weeks ago. I’m limited on storage space & wanted something to both protect the components of air conditioner, not require me to have someone help remove it from window, and I don’t need to worry about storing the product. It was a fair price. Seems somewhat durable. Went on easy.”
Complete Buying Guide for Window Air Conditioners
Essential Factors We Consider
When choosing the best window air conditioner, we evaluate several key factors: BTU rating (matching it to room size), energy efficiency, noise level, ease of installation, and included features like remote controls, timers, and smart connectivity. We also consider real-world performance based on customer feedback and durability over time.
Budget Planning
Window AC prices range from under $150 for basic 5,000 BTU models to over $400 for smart, high-capacity units. Set a budget based on your room size and needs—smaller rooms can save with lower-BTU models, while larger spaces may require investing in higher output or smart features for long-term comfort.
Final Thoughts
The right window air conditioner can make summer livable—even in the hottest climates. Whether you prioritize affordability, smart tech, or raw cooling power, there’s a model on this list that fits your lifestyle. Always measure your window and room size before buying, and consider accessories like brackets and covers for added safety and longevity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I choose the right BTU size for my room?
A: As a general rule, multiply your room’s square footage by 20 to estimate needed BTUs. For example, a 300 sq ft room needs about 6,000 BTUs. Add 1,000 BTUs for sunny rooms or kitchens, and subtract for shaded areas.
Q: Can I leave my window AC installed all year?
A: Yes, but it’s recommended to use a protective cover in winter to prevent drafts, moisture buildup, and damage from snow or pests.
Q: Are window air conditioners energy efficient?
A: Many modern units are Energy Star certified and use less electricity than older models. Look for high EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio) ratings and features like sleep mode to reduce consumption.
Q: Do I need a special outlet for a window AC?
A: Most units plug into standard 115V outlets, but higher-BTU models (12,000+) may require a dedicated 230V circuit. Check the manufacturer’s specifications before purchasing.
Q: How loud are window air conditioners?
A: Noise levels vary, but most range from 50 to 65 decibels—similar to a quiet conversation or moderate rainfall. Lower settings are quieter, while high cooling modes are louder.
Ready to beat the heat? Whether you’re cooling a tiny bedroom or a spacious living area, one of these top-rated window air conditioners will keep you comfortable all summer long. Click any “Check Price” button above to compare current deals and find the perfect fit for your home—and don’t forget to measure your window before you buy!