Best Portable Air Conditioner Reviews 2018

best portable air conditioner reviews

best cheap portable air conditioner

Portable air conditioners are useful and versatile

Air conditioners can certainly provide ease to numerous people especially during the summer season. But what could be more convenient than a portable air conditioning unit? Apart from adding comfort to your home, you are at liberty to transport it from one room to another.

Want to purchase the best portable air conditioner for your room? If so, feel free to read these reviews and choose the perfect unit for you. Here are some of the top choices among customers, and you might likewise find the one that suits your needs.

Best Portable AirCon Unit Comparison Table

Having examined a wide range of air conditioners on the market, we have drawn up our list of the top 10 best a/c devices that can be moved from room to room. Take a look below for the table and check out our review of each of them.

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Heater Name

Price

Rating

Select

best portable air conditioner 2017

Honeywell MN12CES 12,000 BTU Portable AC Unit

Overall Best Portable Air Conditioner

$$

4.0

best buy portable air conditioner 2017

Tripp Lite Portable Cooling Unit Air Conditioner

$$$

3.4

best rated portable air conditioner 2017

Honeywell MN10CESWW 10,000 BTU Portable Air Con

$$

3.9

portable air conditioner best buy 2017

Whynter 14,000 BTU Dual Hose Portable A/C Unit

$$

3.9

the best portable air-conditioning unit 2017

Whynter ARC-14SH 14,000 BTU Dual Hose Portable AirCon with Heater

$$$

3.6

what is the best portable air conditioner 2017

Honeywell MF08CESWW 8,000 BTU Portable A/C

$

3.5

best dual hose portable air conditioner 2017

Whynter 10,000 BTU Portable Air Con (ARC-10WB)

$

4.0

best portable room air-conditioner 2017

Honeywell MM14CHCS 14,000 BTU Portable AC Unit with Heat Pump

$$$

3.5

best portable a-c unit consumer reports 2017

Honeywell MM14CCS 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner

Best Mantel Electric Fireplace

$$$

3.6

best 14000 btu ac portable 2017

Global air 10,000 BTU Portable air-conditioner Cooling

$

4.0



Honeywell MN12CES 12,000 BTU Portable AC Unit with Remote Control

best portable air conditioner 2017

4.0

This product provides optimum cooling and dehumidification, given the fact that it uses 3-in-1 technology and comes with 3M electrostatic filter and a compressor. This is among the top choices for consumers looking for something that provides easy mobility.

Main Features and Benefits

  • 12,000 BTU air conditioner
  • Cools areas up to 450 sq. ft., dehumidifies up to 79.2 pints each day.
  • Comes with digital LED display and full-function remote control.
  • Features three speeds.
  • Comes with automatic on/off timer.
  • Quiet operation (55dbA) despite powerful air flow.
  • Has a fan-only function.
  • Has a sleek and modern design.
  • No permanent installation required; comes with four caster wheels that provide easy mobility.
  • Comes with auto-evaporation system that can operate for hours.
  • Has a removable window vent and a flexible exhaust hose.
  • Removable exhaust pipe adds security; allows user to lock the window when pipe is removed.
  • Washable.
  • Fast and easy to set up.
  • Sleeker and quieter than other units.
  • Has a good physical appearance; aesthetically beautiful.
  • Suits various areas.
  • Works well especially during hot days.
  • Can exceed common expectations of users performance wise.
  • Reputable brand

Relative Disadvantages

  • Not as good as a window unit, but has an excellent performance as a portable a-c device.

Tripp Lite Portable Cooling Unit Air Conditioner, Stand Alone Spot Air Cooler, AC, 12K BTU (3.5 kW), 120V, 5-15P Plug (SRCOOL12K)

best buy portable aircon 2017

3.4

This air conditioning unit suits space-critical locations like wiring closets. It is best for solving cooling problems where it is not advisable to install computer room air conditioning.

Main Features and Benefits

  • Comes with 12,000 BTU of cooling power.
  • Has a standard louvered vent that is useful for general room cooling.
  • Has a ducted vent for directing cold air to the desired spot or area.
  • Does not require water collection tank or floor drain.
  • Offers emergency, supplemental, and off-hour cooling in various applications.
  • Comes with top-mounted control panel|Provides cooling capacity without requiring users to spend too much money and time.
  • Has a flexible cooling duct that directs cold air to areas that mostly need it.
  • Dehumidifies and filters the air.
  • Best for small businesses, education, and other sectors with tight budgets and where purpose-built IT spaces are a luxury.
  • Good for small rooms and hot spots.
  • Comes with numerous IT-friendly features.
  • Can work for extended periods.
  • Best for low-maintenance applications like remote installations.
  • Easy to install; does not need professional assistance.
  • Meets environmental standards; does not contribute to the depletion of ozone layer.
  • One-year warranty.

Relative Disadvantages

  • Relatively short lifespan, which is 18 months; but exceeds the warranty offered, which is one year/12 months.

Honeywell MN10CESWW 10,000 BTU Portable Air Con with Remote Control - White

best rated portable air-conditioner 2017

3.9

The MN10CES 10,000 BTU Honeywell Portable Air Con unit is perfect for those looking for an air conditioner that delivers fresh ventilation along with dehumidification and optimum cooling. The product is able to do the job due to the combination of 3-in-1 technology. It is among the top choices of consumers when it comes to portable air conditioners.

Main Features and Benefits

  • 10000 BTU air-con model.
  • Cools places up to 350 sq. ft.
  • Dehumidifies up to 70 pints per 24 hours.
  • Comes with full-function remote control; allows users to operate each feature from across the room.
  • Comes with digital LCD display containing feather touch controls.
  • Has an auto-evaporation system.
  • Provides quiet operation (53 dbA).
  • Comes with a three-speed and fan-only function that circulates gentle air when there is no need for cooling.
  • Provides powerful air flow.
  • Does not require permanent installation.
  • Comes with smooth-gliding caster wheels for easy mobility.
  • Can continuously operate for hours.
  • Has a flexible exhaust hose.
  • Has an easy-to-install and removable window venting kit.
  • Washable filter.
  • Programmable timer.
  • Fast and easy to install.
  • Has everything a user needs.

Relative Disadvantages

  • Exhaust tunnel/pipe can be an eye sore,but users can easily hide it so it's not a big deal.

Whynter 14,000 BTU Dual Hose Portable A/C Unit (ARC-14S)

portable air conditioners best buy 2017

3.9

This Whynter air-conditioner provides clean and cool air wherever users need it. It is also among the best choices for people looking for an eco-friendly air conditioner.

Main Features and Benefits

  • Comes with three operational modes: air conditioning, dehumidifier, and fan.
  • Has a 24-hour programmable timer and full thermostatic control (61°F - 89°F).
  • Provides a product manual.
  • Dehumidifies 101 pints each day.
  • Comes with the traditional three-fan speeds.
  • Has an extendable exhaust and intake hose.
  • Can effectively draw warm air from your space and convert it into cool air.
  • Has an auto-drain function that controls condensation.
  • CFC-free; designed to consume minimal energy.
  • Uses ozone-safe R-410A refrigerant.
  • Lead-free.
  • Best for bedrooms, classrooms, living rooms, workshops, computer or server rooms, and more.
  • Easy-to-install venting kit.Convenient remote and simple control panel.
  • Has odor-neutralizing carbon filter and washable pre-filter for fresh and clean air.
  • Comes with auto-restart and safety features.
  • Works well.
  • Does not make too much noise.
  • Good for people in places where there is so much moisture in the air; product pulls lots of it out.

Relative Disadvantages

  • Drain is so close to the floor, making it hard to get a container under it; requires just a bit of mopping the floor to solve the problem.

Whynter ARC-14SH 14,000 BTU Dual Hose Portable AirCon with Heater

the best moveable aircon 2017

3.6

This product is another good option for those looking for an environmentally friendly unit. It is highly functional and provides users with cool and clean air at all times.

Main Features and Benefits

  • Comes with three operational modes: air conditioner, fan, or dehumidifier.
  • Has an upgraded plastic window kit.
  • Provides three fan speeds.
  • Dehumidifies 101 pints each day.
  • Has a 24-hour programmable timer.
  • Comes with a carbon air filter and washable pre-filter for good-quality air.
  • Easy to set up in any indoor location.
  • Effective in drawing warm air from the users' space and converting it into cool and fresh air.
  • Comes with auto-drain function; useful for controlling condensation.
  • Designed to consume minimal energy.
  • CFC-free.
  • Lead-free.
  • Uses ozone-safe R-410A refrigerant.
  • Cools areas that are up to 500 square feet.
  • Best for computer rooms, bedrooms, living rooms, classrooms, workshops, etc.
  • Comes with an LCD display.
  • Features simple selections; for instance, fan speed selection, mode selection button, up/down temperature adjustments, and fan speed selection.
  • Has an auto-restart function that is especially beneficial during power outages.
  • Supplied with a Leakage Current Detection and Interruption (LCDI) plug; lessens risk of fire.
  • Robust unit.

Relative Disadvantages

  • Has a tendency to stop working due to certain circumstances; service provider is cooperative enough and offers reimbursements in special cases.

Honeywell MF08CESWW 8,000 BTU Portable A/C with Remote Control - White

what is the best portable ac device 2017

3.5

This is ideal for customers who prefer a modern design. It is functional and provides optimum cooling and dehumidification.

Main Features and Benefits

  • 8000 BTU a/c unit.
  • Cools places up to 300 square feet.
  • Dehumidifies up to 60.8 pints each day.
  • Comes with an automatic on/off timer (one to 24 hours).
  • Provides powerful air flow.
  • Operates quietly (54 dbA).
  • Comes with a digital LED display.
  • Has a full-function remote control.
  • Comes with a washable slide-out filter.
  • Reusable filter; can stay clean for an entire summer, although it is advisable to clean it every two weeks.
  • Has castor wheels for easy mobility.
  • Requires two AAA alkaline batteries.
  • Comes with a removable hose that allows users to lock the window for safety purposes.
  • Works well especially when supplemented with a fan.
  • Can be placed on a table, provided the table is strong enough.
  • Lasts long especially with careful and proper use.
  • Comes with an instruction book that is very helpful should the users strictly follow what it states.
  • Reputable brand.

Relative Disadvantages

  • Not suitable for those in high-humidity areas, but works well in low-humidity places.
  • Does not work like a real dehumidifier, but does the job pretty well for a multi-operational device.

Whynter 10,000 BTU Portable Air Con (ARC-10WB)

best dual hose portable air-conditioner 2017

4.0

This Whynter air conditioner is feature-filled and multi-operational. It is best for people who prefer multi-purpose devices that are of good quality and environmentally friendly.

Main Features and Benefits

  • Has 10000 BTU cooling capacity .
  • Best for areas up to 300 square feet.
  • Has an LED display.
  • Features simple selections.
  • Comes with a self-evaporative system; exhausts condensate under average ambient conditions.
  • CFC-free.Lead-free.
  • Uses ozone-safe R-410A refrigerant .
  • Comes in three operational modes: air conditioner, dehumidifier, and fan.
  • Has an extendable hose.
  • Easy to set up even in small places.
  • Removes warm and humid air from an area and replaces it with cool and clean air.
  • Circulates air in the room and includes four fan speeds.
  • Cools small rooms; suits garages, workshops, bedrooms, classrooms, and other smaller indoor areas.
  • Easy to transport; no need to lift because it contains multidirectional casters.
  • Minimizes condensation and recycles moisture drawn during the process of cooling; thus, producing cool and clean air.
  • Suitable for everyday and continuous use.
  • Comes with a direct-drain option that makes continuous operation possible.
  • Provides auto-restart feature that is especially beneficial during power outages; comes with other safety features.
  • Has a washable antibacterial filter.
  • Compact yet robust unit.

Relative Disadvantages

  • Errors may occur upon installation; just make sure to properly set it up to avoid mishaps.

Honeywell MM14CHCS 14,000 BTU Portable AC Unit with Heat Pump - Black/Silver

best portable room air con 2017

3.5

This product is another good option for users looking for a multi-functional unit that provides safety features as well. Manufactured by a reputable company, this is among the top choices in the market.

Main Features and Benefits

  • 14000 BTU conditioner; also comes with 13000 BTU heat pump.
  • 4-in-1 unit: air conditioner, fan, dehumidifier, and heater.
  • Has a modern design; covers places up to 700 square feet.
  • Provides optimum cooling, dehumidification, and heating.
  • Cools areas up to 550 square feet.
  • Dehumidifies up to 79.2 pints each day.
  • Comes with a supplemental heat pump for additional heat source to the main heat source; beneficial when temperature outdoors exceeds 45 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Has full-function remote control that allows users to operate the device from across the room.
  • Comes with LED display.
  • Comes with three speeds.
  • Has an automatic on/off timer (one to 24 hours).
  • Provides powerful air flow.
  • Has a washable filter and environmentally friendly compressor.
  • Operates quietly (55 dbA).
  • Has four caster wheels that makes mobility a lot easier.
  • Comes with auto-evaporation system for continuous operation without water.
  • Has a removable window vent; allows users to lock window for security.
  • Reliable brand.

Relative Disadvantages

  • Can be relatively loud when operating, but still manageable.

Honeywell MM14CCS 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner with Remote Control - Black/Silver

portable ac consumer reports 2017

3.6

This is one of the top choices for portable air conditioners. It is multi-functional and comes from a reputable company, making it earn numerous customers' trust.

Main Features and Benefits

  • 14000 BTU air conditioning unit.
  • Has a sleek, modern design.
  • Uses 3-in-1 technology.
  • Comes in no-bucket no-drip design.
  • Cools places up to 550 square feet.
  • Dehumidifies up to 79.2 pints in one day.
  • Provides powerful air flow (265 CFM).
  • Features quiet operation.
  • Comes with three speeds.
  • Has an automatic on/off timer.
  • Has a digital LED display and precise feather-touch controls.
  • Comes with full-function remote control, allowing users to operate every feature across a room.
  • Has four caster wheels that make possible an easier mobility between rooms or areas.
  • Comes with a compressor that is environmentally friendly.
  • Uses auto-evaporation system for continuous operation.
  • Provides everything a user needs.Easy to set up.
  • Removable window vent that provides security, for it enables users to lock their windows.
  • Noticeably quieter than other units.
  • Works well; provides good-quality cooling and dehumidification.
  • Reliable brand.

Relative Disadvantages

  • Possible problems regarding capacity to make a whole area cool; users should make sure the room is not too big for the unit for it works best in smaller areas.

Global air 10,000 BTU Portable air-conditioner Cooling / Fan with Remote Control in white

best 14000 btu portable a/c 2017

4.0

For customers who want to make sure their device can keep them cool the entire summer season, this Global Air air conditioner would be a good option. It is a feature-filled product that provides just what a user needs.

Main Features and Benefits

  • Comes with digital controls offering exact adjustments in temperature.
  • Provides a remote control that allows users to control the device from across the room.
  • Has a LED display that is easy to read.
  • Features self-evaporative system.
  • Recycles condensing water through cooling condenser; improves the unit's efficiency.
  • Provides over-cold protection; has anti-frozen function.
  • Does not require water tank to work.
  • Can cool areas up to 300 square feet.
  • Has two speeds for cooling.
  • Comes with four-way air direction; helps evenly distribute air throughout the room.
  • Comes with a manual that includes detailed instructions for installation.
  • Easy to set up.
  • Works well and fast.
  • Suits a usual vertical or horizontal window.
  • Generally provides the needs of users.

Relative Disadvantages

  • Can be a bit noisy when used in a TV room or bedroom but is just right when used in other areas.
  • Could be a bit big or heavy depending on the user's perspective; generally of the right size and weight that match the product's function.

Choosing the Best Portable A/C Unit: A Buyer's Guide

Choosing the best portable air-con unit takes a lot of effort. Products come in different features and they serve various purposes. You need to know about them first before starting your search.

What do you want from a portable air-conditioner? Would you opt for a multi-functional one, or are you very specific about environmental concerns? How about having a plan to move it from one room to another in your household?

If you still don't know what you should put first, feel free to educate yourself through this piece of writing. Hopefully, you will learn how to be a responsible buyer after reading this.

moveable air con

Portable air conditioners are ideal for the bedroom on those hot summer nights

What to Look for in an Air Conditioner

Portable a/c devices have become a popular choice these days simply because many people recognize the benefits of owning one. Here are some tips on what to look for in one of these units:

Size of the unit

Consider the square footage and the space in selecting the size of your portable AC unit. Choose the right size that has enough power to efficiently cool your room.

In line with this, consider the BTU of the unit. A higher BTU level can cause the unit to cool quickly then cycle off. To maintain the temperature, it has to cycle on and off again. The process can damage the compressor and shorten your unit’s life span.

Filter

Look for a unit that has both a pre-filter and carbon filter. These features will remove mold, dust, and other fine particles. For better filtration, select a unit with ionization features.

Thermostats and timers

A unit that has temperature and fan speed options is a good choice. Although costly, such features allow you to program your unit at a specific setting and time. Aside from the comfort it offers, it also helps lower your power consumption.

Convenience

Select a unit that is easy to install and drag around when needed. A unit with a more compact design saves space. It is also lighter so it is easy to move anywhere in the house.

Note some housing units require you to get permission for a portable air conditioning unit. You should check your lease to ensure you are not one of these.​

Dehumidifier

Portable AC units automatically remove moisture from the air, but one with a separate dehumidifying function is a better option to reduce humidity in your room.

Compressor

A loud compressor is annoying. Look for a portable AC unit that has a noise level of 60 to 65 decibel (dB) so as not to interrupt your sleep.

Important Things to Consider When Purchasing a Product

After discussing the specifics of buying a portable air conditioner, let us tackle the important considerations to take when buying an item in general. As a responsible customer, what should first come in your mind?

Quality of the product

This should definitely come first. An air conditioner is not a mere accessory. It is an electrical appliance that needs to work well to provide its users' needs.

Moreover, you should make sure that your prospective unit is safe to use. Make sure it has some safety features that will protect its users should the need arises.

Needless to say, only a good-quality item can provide these important things. For your safety and satisfaction, always make quality your top priority.

Budget

what is the best portable air con to buy

Always check your budget before committing to buy.

As a buyer, you may have set a certain budget for the portable air conditioner that you plan to buy. Look for one that is reasonably priced. It may not be the cheapest item, but it should be worth your money.

As much as possible, stick to your budget. But if you find a product that is a little more expensive but suits your needs, exceeding your budget will be worth it.

User requirements

Apart from your personal preference, the condition of your environment should also define your requirements for the best product. Are the rooms in your house big? Do you live in a place where humidity is high?

The answers to these questions can tell what type of unit is good for you. The condition of your environment is just as important as your own preferences. They can even be more important at times.

Brand/Reputation

As much as possible, opt for a brand that has earned the trust of numerous people for years. Being able to purchase an item with a trusted brand gives you peace of mind and a huge chance of making the right choice. You should still do some research about the item itself though.

Warranty

It really pays to go for a product that offers warranty. First, you get to secure yourself. Second, having a warranty may be an indication of good quality.

In choosing a product to buy, it is important to always think of what you are going to gain. After all, you'll be spending your hard-earned money for that item.

best portable ac brand 2017

Common Blunders Buyers Make

It is very common to commit some mistakes when buying an item. But you can always prevent it from happening. Here are some mistakes that you should definitely avoid when purchasing a an air-con device:

Immediately opting for the bigger or smaller size

Some customers tend to choose a bigger item due to the thought that it works or cools better. On the other hand, some tend to choose a smaller one due to the fact that it is easier to transport.

Such reasons should not be your sole bases for choosing a product. The perfect size for you depends on the condition of your room or dwelling place in general. Such condition tells whether a bigger or a smaller one fits you better.

Failing to consider the features and purpose of each potential item

Not all air-conditioners are the same. Each serves a particular purpose, which defines the features it has. Don't forget about this fact when purchasing your own.

Failing to balance all important factors

Budget, quality, environmental condition, etc. — you have a lot of things to think of when making a decision. It is important to balance all these important factors.

Summing it all up

Ready to buy the best portable air conditioner? By now, you may have already realized that it's no easy task. If you want to get the best buy, you better equip yourself with enough knowledge about your prospective items.

Have another look at our comparison table above. Check out the product reviews and see if you can find a unit that suits you.​

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