The Best Small Window Air Conditioners of 2024, Tested
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One of these small yet mighty window air conditioners can help folks sleep cooler and otherwise feel more comfortable indoors during hot weather.
Those who live in older homes without the comfort and convenience of central air conditioning understand just how hard it can be to sleep in a hot bedroom. While a fan or evaporative cooler can help, a better solution is a small window air conditioner. These diminutive but adequately powerful appliances produce around 5,000 British thermal units (BTUs) of energy, which is enough to cool most bedrooms. Smaller than more powerful units, they’re capable of fitting in window openings as narrow as 14 inches high by 21 inches wide while also being much more affordable.
Small air conditioners range from top-of-the-line models with LED displays, remote controls, fancy operating modes, and even smart technology to budget-priced models with simple analog controls. With so many options on the market, it can be difficult to determine which model is the right one for you. To help, we put the following models through hands-on testing on some of the hottest days of the year to determine how well they cool, how well their features work, and even how quietly they run. Our top recommendation goes to the Midea 8,000 BTU U-Shaped Air Conditioner thanks to its updated and modern design along with near-silent operation.
This guide will examine the factors to consider when choosing the best small window air conditioner and review some of the best models on the market. Keep reading to learn more about what we found out.
- BEST OVERALL: Midea 8,000 BTU U-Shaped Air Conditioner
↓ Jump to Review - BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: GE 6,000 BTU Electronic Window Air Conditioner
↓ Jump to Review - BEST FOR SMALL WINDOWS: Midea 5,000 BTU EasyCool Window Air Conditioner
↓ Jump to Review - BEST FOR LARGER ROOMS: Midea 12,000 BTU Smart Window Air Conditioner
↓ Jump to Review - BEST QUIET: Windmill 8,000 BTU Smart Air Conditioner
↓ Jump to Review - BEST PORTABLE: LG 10,000 BTU Dual Inverter Portable Air Conditioner
↓ Jump to Review
How We Tested the Best Small Window Air Conditioners
Testing a group of small window air conditioners took quite a bit of work, and we compared them to one another on several levels. First, we had to break the air conditioners up into separate categories, as comparing a 5,000 BTU model to a 10,000 BTU air conditioner is unfair. We had three 5,000 BTU models; two 6,000 BTU models; one 8,000-BTU model; and one 10,000-BTU model to compare, so we were as systematic as possible.
We installed the 5,000 BTU models in bedrooms first. We compared the process of assembling them (which were remarkably similar) as well as how quickly they could cool the room in the first hour. Then, we moved on to the 6,000 BTU units, which were on totally different pages when it came to installation and design, so we installed them in different spaces, comparing their installation, noise, and features. Finally, we set up the 8,000-BTU model, as well as the larger 10,000 BTU air conditioner, and compared their installation procedures, features, and dimensions.
Comparing cooling proved to be fruitless, as these models were all effective but totally different in terms of output. However, this test did provide us with the information we needed to compare features and installation procedures. We then gave models awards based on their strengths but noted where they may fall short for some shoppers.
| Testing Stats | |
| Products tested | 9 |
| Time spent testing | 3 to 4 hours each |
| Tests performed | 5 to 6 |
| Price range | $160 to $650 |
Our Top Picks
The list below consists of the best small window air conditioners on the market. It includes basic models for the budget minded, efficient units with Energy Star certifications, and advanced air conditioners with cutting-edge technology. Any of the air conditioners below is a good pick for making a bedroom more comfortable in the summertime.
Note: We measured the smallest units to ensure shoppers were able to find something to fit small windows. The other models are designed to fit standard windows at least 28 inches wide.
Best Overall
Midea 8,000 BTU U-Shaped Air Conditioner
Photo: Amazon
Our Ratings: Installation 3/5;Performance 5/5; Noise 5/5; Ease of Cleaning 5/5; Value 5/5
Product Specs
- Size: 8,000 BTUs
- Display and setting type: Digital
- Additional features: U-shaped design, remote control, Wi-Fi
What We Like
- Allows in more light than a typical air conditioner
- Extremely quiet compared to any other model
- Handsome design looks sleek and modern
What We Don’t Like
- Installation is not easy
With its innovative U-shaped design, this Midea air conditioner solves one of the biggest gripes about window air conditioners—noise. Rather than fit in the window space, requiring the window to be open a foot or more, this 8,000 BTU model straddles the window, allowing it to close between the blower and the compressor. With the noisy compressor on the other side of the glass, this air conditioner produces 42 decibels, which is slightly noisier than a library.
This design also has the effect of creating a much tighter seal between the window and the outside, making it 35 percent more energy efficient than standard window units (which helps to offset its significantly higher price tag). In addition to having all the requisite modes of a higher-end air conditioner, including sleep, energy saver, and auto shutoff, this model is also a smart device, capable of connecting to a home’s Wi-Fi for control via a smart device or virtual assistant.
In testing, we found that installing this air conditioner took some effort. It comes with several brackets, pieces of hardware, foam strips, and other components that are a little confusing, even with the QR-code directions. However, once installed, this machine is easy to enjoy. It’s so quiet that it’s barely noticeable. The display is also very attractive, and using the remote is a snap. Its design allows more light into the room than typical window air conditioners, and we liked that we could tuck our curtains behind the AC to promote a bit more privacy.
Get the Midea U-shaped small window air conditioner at Amazon or The Home Depot.
Best Bang For The Buck
GE 6,000 BTU Electronic Window Air Conditioner
Photo: Amazon
Our Ratings: Installation 5/5;Performance 4/5; Noise 5/5; Ease of Cleaning 5/5; Value 5/5
Product Specs
- Size: 6,000 BTUs
- Display and setting type: Digital
- Additional features: Remote control
What We Like
- Cools rooms without breaking the bank
- Small, compact unit is easy to install
- Digital controls are simple to use
What We Don’t Like
- Small display can be difficult to read
With enough power to cool most bedrooms and controls that make setting the temperature a snap, this affordable window air conditioner is one of the best all-around models on the market. Its 6,000 BTU output sets it just above the power envelope of most smaller air conditioning units, which have 5,000 BTUs, giving it just enough extra oomph to cool spaces up to 250 square feet.
The controls for this AC unit are also an upgrade. A digital display allows for precise temperature settings, and a remote control adds convenience. While this model isn’t Energy Star certified, it just misses the mark with an energy-efficiency rating of 11. Despite its larger compressor, this model is compact and able to fit windows as narrow as 21.875 inches wide with a minimum opening of 13.375 inches.
During testing, we found the GE air conditioner to be a good choice for bedrooms and other smaller spaces. It’s quiet compared to most other 5,000 or 6,000 BTU air conditioners. It proved easy to install, and working through the digital settings is intuitive. The main issue with this model is that the display is very small, which makes noting the temperature difficult when using the remote.
Get the GE small window air conditioner at Amazon.
Best For Small Windows
Midea 5,000 BTU EasyCool Window Air Conditioner
Photo: Amazon
Our Ratings: Installation 5/5;Performance 3.5/5; Noise 4/5; Ease of Cleaning 5/5; Value 4/5
Product Specs
- Size: 5,000 BTUs
- Display and setting type: Analog
- Additional features: None
What We Like
- Compact and lightweight design
- Simple analog controls for easy adjustments
- Fits in smaller windows
What We Don’t Like
- Louvers don’t adjust up and down
Thanks to its compact size, this Midea model is a great option for smaller windows that don’t open wide enough to handle larger units. This window air conditioner measures just 12.05 inches long by 15.98 inches wide by 15.35 inches deep, allowing it to fit a window with vertical openings as small as 13 inches and as wide as 16 inches. Despite its diminutive size, it packs a punch with a 5,000 BTU energy output that allows it to cover up to 150 square feet.
While not Energy Star certified, its energy-efficiency rating of 11 makes it one of the more cost-conscious window air conditioning units on the market. A rotating knob adjusts temperatures between 1 and 7, while a second knob allows you to toggle between two fan-only speeds and two cooling fan speeds. The reusable filter, which catches pollen, dust, and other contaminants, is easy to remove for periodic cleaning.
When it comes to ease of installation, the Midea EasyCool was one of our favorites. It’s lightweight and compact, meaning popping it into a window takes just a few seconds. It also cooled the room relatively quickly without being intrusively loud like some of the other small window units. The only bone to pick about this air conditioner is that the louvers only adjust side to side, not up and down.
Get the Midea 5,000 BTU small window air conditioner at Amazon.
Best For Larger Rooms
Midea 12,000 BTU Smart Window Air Conditioner
Photo: Amazon
Our Ratings: Installation 3/5;Performance 5/5; Noise 5/5; Ease of Cleaning 5/5; Value 4/5
Product Specs
- Size: 12,000 BTUs
- Display and setting type: Digital
- Additional features: U-shaped design, remote, Wi-Fi
What We Like
- U-shaped design; runs smoothly and quietly
- Included brackets make it very secure
- App is easy to use
- Remote has a built-in digital screen
What We Don’t Like
- Comparatively heavy at 60 pounds
Folks looking for a quiet air conditioner with the power to cool larger rooms will want to consider the Midea 12,000 BTU window air conditioner. This machine features a U-shaped design that separates the noisy parts from the interior of the home. This allows the unit to run noticeably quieter on the inside while still pumping out plenty of cool air (it’s rated for rooms up to 550 square feet). It boasts three modes: fan, cool, and dehumidifier.
This unit comes with a bracket that adjusts to fit the window and the house, as well as all sorts of foam pieces of different densities for sealing out noise and the elements. This unit also features an included remote control, a downloadable app, and Wi-Fi compatibility.
We found the Midea 12,000 BTU air conditioner to be an excellent unit. However, it’s important to note that it’s difficult to install, as it weighs almost 60 pounds. Once it is installed, it’s very quiet (it maxed out around 64 decibels) and, due to the bracket and U-shaped design, it’s incredibly safe. We liked the easy-to-program app, and the remote has a digital screen, preventing users from having to squint from across the room to read the AC’s display.
Get the Midea 12,000 BTU small window air conditioner at Amazon.
Best Quiet
Windmill 8,000 BTU Smart Air Conditioner
Photo: Amazon
Our Ratings: Installation 5/5;Performance 4/5; Noise 3.5/5; Ease of Cleaning 5/5; Value 4/5
Product Specs
- Size: 8,000 BTUs
- Display and setting type: Digital
- Additional features: Insulated foam panels, Wi-Fi, remote control
What We Like
- Runs super quietly on the low setting
- Ample foam and insulated foam side panels
- Rear grill protects cooling fins from damage
What We Don’t Like
- Can rattle when the compressor kicks in
Anyone shopping for an air conditioner that can cool a medium-size room without making much noise at all will want to consider the Windmill smart air conditioner. This model features an 8,000 BTU output and can cool rooms up to 350 square feet while producing as little as 42 decibels of sound. This made the unit quieter than the other sounds in the house, which measured at around 50 decibels. To help keep things even quieter, the Windmill comes with several pieces of foam as well as customizable foam panels that insulate both sound and airflow while improving the overall look.
This unit features Wi-Fi compatibility and works with the Windmill app. While we liked being able to adjust it from our phone or control it with voice commands by connecting it to Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa, it also includes a remote with an easy-to-read digital display. The app also worked well. We appreciated the cover over the cooling fins in the rear of the AC to prevent bent fins during installation or storage. But it’s worth pointing out that while this unit is quiet, it does rattle a bit when the compressor kicks in.
Get the Windmill small window air conditioner at Amazon, Lowe’s, The Home Depot, or Wayfair.
Best Portable
LG 10,000 BTU Dual Inverter Portable Air Conditioner
Photo: Amazon
Our Ratings: Installation 5/5;Performance 5/5; Noise 5/5; Ease of Cleaning 3/5; Value 4.5/5
Product Specs
- Size: 10,000 BTUs
- Display and setting type: Digital
- Additional features: