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The 9 Best Air Portable Air Conditioner in 2024 - Buyer’s Guide & Reviews

Jimmy Smith
  May 3, 2024 2:05 PM

Summertime is synonymous with hot, sweaty weather. Air conditioners are a lifesaver during the dog days of summer, but they can be expensive to operate. If you’re looking for an air conditioner that doesn’t require a window or wall outlet, then you need an air portable air conditioner.

These cooling units are small and easy to move around, making them perfect for rooms that don’t have traditional AC outlets. In this buyer’s guide, we will recommend the nine best air portable air conditioners for 2024. We will also provide in-depth reviews of each unit so that you can find the perfect one for your needs. Let’s get started!


Top picks

Best for small spaces: SereneLife SLPAC8

This compact air conditioner is perfect for small spaces, and features rolling wheels for easy portability. With three operating modes – cooling, dehumidifier and fan – you can customize the perfect environment for your needs.

The built-in dehumidifier keeps your space feeling fresh, while the automatic swing mode ensures maximum air circulation. And for added convenience, the SereneLife SLPAC8 comes with a window mount kit so you can set it up anywhere.

Best for dorms, apartments, offices and more: BLACK+DECKER 8,000 BTU

The BLACK+DECKER 8,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner with Remote Control is perfect for dorms, apartments, offices, bedrooms, or living rooms up to 150 square feet. Our 4,000 BTU (8,000 BTU ASHRAE) compact AC unit is perfect for fast, effective cooling.

An adjustable fan speed cools the air to 65°F at the coolest setting, while sleep mode ensures it runs extra quietly while you rest. This floor-standing portable AC unit is simple to install – just wheel it into any room with a double hung or sliding window and attach the included hose and window adapter. 

Best for small to medium-sized rooms: Shinco 12,000 BTU

Looking for a reliable, easy-to-use air conditioner that can cool down a room quickly? The Shinco 12,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner is perfect for small to medium-sized rooms up to 400 square feet.

With its built-in dehumidifier, this AC unit can also help remove excess moisture from the air, leaving your space feeling refreshed and comfortable. Featuring three fan speeds, a LED display and a remote control, this portable AC unit is both user-friendly and powerful. Plus, it comes with a complete window mount exhaust kit for easy installation.

Whynter ARC-14S 14,000 BTU Dual Hose Portable Air Conditioner, Dehumidifier, Fan with Activated Carbon Filter in Platinum and Black plus Storage bag for Rooms up to 500 sq ft

Best for humid environments: Whynter ARC-14S

Introducing the Whynter ARC-14S 14,000 BTU Dual Hose Portable Air Conditioner, Dehumidifier, Fan with Activated Carbon Filter in Platinum and Black. This powerful and versatile unit is perfect for cooling and dehumidifying rooms up to 500 square feet.

With 14,000 BTUs of cooling power, theARC-14S can quickly and effectively cool even the largest spaces. The dual hose design helps improve cooling efficiency by allowing for simultaneous intake and exhaust of hot air. 

Top sales: Shinco 8,000 BTU

This powerful and compact AC unit is perfect for cooling rooms up to 200 square feet, making it ideal for bedrooms, dorms, apartments, offices, and more. With three modes to choose from – cooling, dehumidification, and fan – and two speed settings, you can customize the unit to your specific needs. Plus, the LED display and remote control make it easy to operate.

And when you’re not using it, the included window mount exhaust kit makes it a snap to store away. Stay cool and comfortable all summer long with the Shinco 8,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner!


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    BLACK+DECKER
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    Shinco
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    Whynter
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    Shinco
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    Midea
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    Midea
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    Upstreman
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    Dreo

Last update on 2024-05-03 / Affiliate links / Images, Product Titles, and Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

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How to choose

How to choose the best air portable air conditioner?

When choosing an air portable air conditioner, there are three key factors you need to consider:

1. The size of the unit: Air portable air conditioners come in a range of sizes. It's important to choose a unit that's the right size for your needs. If you choose a unit that's too small, it won't be effective at cooling your space. If you choose a unit that's too large, it will be less efficient and cost more to operate.

2. The type of unit: There are two main types of air portable air conditioners: evaporative and refrigerated. Evaporative units work by drawing in hot air and passing it over a wet pad, which cools the air. Refrigerated units work by cooling the air with a refrigerant.

3. The features: Air portable air conditioners come with a range of features. Some units have timer functions, so you can set them to turn on and off at specific times. Other units have remote controls, so you can adjust the settings from anywhere in the room. And some units even come with built-in air purifiers, so you can breathe easier knowing that your air is clean and healthy.

Shinco 8,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner with Built-in Dehumidifier Function, Fan Mode, Quiet AC Unit Cools Rooms up to 200 sq.ft, LED Display, Remote Control, Complete Window Mount Exhaust Kit

Types of the air conditioner 

Air conditioners come in several different types, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

  • The most common type of air conditioner is the central air conditioner, which is often used in homes and office buildings. Central air conditioners have a large compressor that cools the air, which is then distributed through a network of ducts.
  • Another type of air conditioner is the window air conditioner, which is often used in small spaces such as apartments or single rooms. Window air conditioners are less expensive than central air conditioners, but they are also less effective. In addition, window air conditioners can be loud and intrusive.
  • Finally, there are portable air conditioners, which can be moved from one location to another. Portable air conditioners are the least expensive option, but they are also the least effective at cooling a space.

Conclusion

Portable air conditioners are a great way to cool down a room without having to install a window unit or central AC. They’re also perfect for small spaces, like apartments and condos.

If you’re in the market for one of these units, our buyer’s guide will help you choose the best air portable air conditioner for your needs. And if you have any questions about our top picks or need advice on what size portable AC is right for you, don’t hesitate to contact us – we’re always happy to help!