Although window air conditioners are not the most aesthetically pleasing devices, but there’s no denying that they can be life-saving (trust me). The most basic function of a window air conditioner is to draw in warm air and release it into the atmosphere. We equipped many of our modern models with sensors that detect environmental factors automatically, which automatically shut off when the room reaches a preset temperature. They usually equip these air conditioners with a fan, which consumes less energy because it does not use a cooling function.
Beyond these basics, however, there are several features, details and functions that set some air conditioners above the rest.
What are the best window air conditioners?
With the best window air conditioners, you can achieve central cooling from a single point in your room by using your existing window space. Even though they are small, the best small window air conditioners are powerful enough to cool an entire room or small studio with ease.
Range of settings: we can equip larger units with a digital thermometer, but we find that for compact models used to cool small spaces, this feature isn’t really necessary and is often inaccurate, anyway. Instead, we look for a wide range of automatic temperature settings to give you more control over the atmosphere.
Programmable timer: some air conditioners allow you to set the unit on a timer, which automatically turns on or off depending on the time of day. This is handy, for example, to automatically turn off the air conditioner when you leave for work, but turn it back on a few minutes before you get home so you don’t get into an oven. Some units even have a sleep setting, which escalates the specified temperature over a period to keep you comfortable at night.
Remote Control: We always like to have a remote control, especially if your window unit is in an inconvenient or hard-to-reach location. Some remotes even come with their own sensors, which tell you when to raise or lower the temperature without having to be physically near the unit.
Details: There are relatively minor considerations that are easy to overlook, but which we think make a big difference in the end. Does the unit have a filter alert, for example, that reminds you when to change the filter? We also think about how efficiently the air conditioning dehumidifies and cools, which plays a big role in the comfort level of your space. You should also consider the noise level. The best air conditioners will keep you cool, without keeping you up at night.
1. hOmeLabs window air conditioner
There are many reasons to love this small, compact window air conditioner from hOmeLabs, which cools small areas quickly and efficiently. It doesn’t come with a ton of bells and whistles, but is simple, easy to use and minimalist.
Mounting brackets, leaf guards, window foam sealant, and an installation guide are included, minimizing potential installation stress. As for its cooling features, it has seven temperature settings, bi-directional air direction and adjustable high or low-speed fans.
According to the manufacturer, it can completely and quietly cool a room in about 15 minutes. The seven temperature settings are especially nice, as small units of this type, lacking digital thermostats, often have gaps in the temperature range.
However, because it is such a small and basic unit, it does have some limitations. We do not recommend leaving it on for several hours at a time, and it will not be as effective in extensive areas.
Buy: hOmeLabs window air conditioner $189.97
2. Midea Mini Air Conditioner
Another mini window air conditioner. We love this Midea air conditioner for the same reasons we’re fans of hOmeLabs air conditioning. Despite its small size, it reliably and quickly cools small spaces, has two-way air direction, and is controlled by simple mechanical rotary dials.
The quietness of this little guy’s fan is impressive, with reviewers claiming that the operating noise level won’t disrupt your sleep, work or other activities. It reusable and washable mesh filter reduces bacteria, ambient odors and other airborne particles, which sounds pretty standard, but makes a tremendous difference if you suffer from allergies. The downside is that it doesn’t have a dehumidification function, but for that you can opt for one of the slightly larger Midea air conditioner models.
Buy: Midea Mini Air Conditioner $169.00
3. TOSOT Window Air Conditioner
No window air conditioner is going to win any beauty contests, but if we had to pick a winner, this would be the one for pure simplicity. But the TOSOT window air conditioner is more than just a pretty face.
It has a dehumidifier and fan-only mode, as well as a “sleep mode” that adjusts the temperature throughout the night for optimal sleeping comfort. The result is undeniably effective cooling with a satisfyingly low noise level. It also comes with a remote control - another point in the plus column.
The other thing we like about this unit is its versatility. With the push of a button, the TOSOT has an air sweep mechanism that allows for more even air distribution throughout the room at different angles. The downside is that it can also be difficult to assemble.
Buy: TOSOT Window Air Conditioner $299.99
4. LG Remote Control Window Air Conditioner
If you need an air conditioner with a little more power, this LG unit is a little more powerful. Its cooling and dehumidifying features, such as four-way air direction, are effective in large spaces and for long periods of time. Cool air blows around the room rather than directly at you, creating a more comfortable environment.
It also has some of the convenient automatic features you might look for, including a 24-hour timer and automatic restart. Oh, and it also has a remote control.
Buy: LG Window Air Conditioner $399.00
DeliverIt and its partners may receive compensation if you purchase something through the recommended links in this article.
