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10 Best Budget Air Conditioner Reviews - Buying Guide in 2024

Camilla J.
  Dec 18, 2024 8:35 AM

Summertime is notorious for being extremely hot and uncomfortable, especially in tropical climates. Air conditioners are a lifesaver during these months, but they can be expensive investments.

If you're on a budget, don't worry! You can still find an air conditioner that will cool your home without breaking the bank. Check out our list of the 10 best budget air conditioners below. We've also included a buying guide to help you choose the perfect unit for your needs. Happy shopping!


Top picks

Best overall: ZAFRO Portable Air Conditioner

This AC unit comes with 3 modes (Cool, Dry, and Fan), so you can choose the perfect setting for your needs. It also features a 19L/day dry capacity, making it ideal for small spaces. And with its easy-to-read LED display and compact remote control, operating the ZAFRO is a breeze.

Best value: Midea MAW08V1QWT

The Midea 8,000 BTU U-Shaped Smart Inverter Window Air Conditioner is a top-of-the-line appliance designed for utmost cooling comfort. Quiet and unobtrusive, this AC unit can be placed almost anywhere in your home without disrupting your daily routine.

With open window flexibility, you can even keep the cool air flowing while taking a break from the heat. And with Alexa or Google Assistant compatibility, you can control your cooling needs with just your voice. Best of all, this smart inverter AC unit is energy efficient, saving you up to 35% on your monthly energy bill. 

Top sales: Koldfront WAC8001W

This unit is ideal for rooms up to 350 square feet, making it perfect for bedrooms, living rooms, or offices. The 8,000 BTUs of cooling power will keep you cool and comfortable all summer long, while the 3,500 BTUs of heating power come in handy on those chilly nights.

Installation is a breeze with all the included hardware and weather seals, and the 2-year warranty gives you peace of mind.

Best for home: SereneLife SLPAC8

This powerful and compact AC unit is perfect for small spaces such as bedrooms, living rooms, and office cubicles. With three operating modes – cooling, dehumidifier, and fan – you can customize your cooling experience to suit your needs.

The built-in dehumidifier function helps to keep your space feeling fresh and dry, while the rolling wheels make it easy to move from room to room. 

Best durable: Emerson Quiet Kool EARC5MD1

Keep your cool all summer long with the Emerson Quiet Kool 5,000 BTU 115V Window Air Conditioner. This compact unit is designed for window-mounted installation and can cool a room up to 150 square feet. With mechanical rotary controls, you can easily adjust the cooling speed, fan speed and temperature to find the perfect balance for your space.

The excess moisture removal feature keeps things comfortable by removing up to 1.3 pints of moisture per hour. And for peace of mind, the Emerson Quiet Kool comes with a 1-2-5 year warranty (1 year labor, 2 years parts and 5 years compressor).


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    KEYSTONE
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    Midea
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    ZAFRO
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    BLACK+DECKER
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    Emerson Quiet Kool
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Last update on 2024-12-18 / Affiliate links / Images, Product Titles, and Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

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Buying Guides

The 5 Things to Consider Before Purchasing the Best Budget Air Conditioner

Summer is right around the corner, and that means one thing: it's time to start thinking about air conditioners! If you're on a budget, you may be wondering if it's worth purchasing a high-end air conditioner or if you should invest in a budget model.

In this blog post, we will discuss the 5 things to consider before purchasing the best budget air conditioner for your needs.

1. The size

When it comes to air conditioners, there are a few things you need to take into consideration. The first is the size of the unit. You'll want to make sure that the air conditioner you purchase is the right size for the space you're cooling.

If you purchase a unit that's too small, it won't be effective, and if you purchase a unit that's too large, it will be a waste of energy.

2. The features

The second thing to consider is the features you need. Some air conditioners come with built-in timers, while others have remote controls. You'll also want to decide if you need a unit with an automatic shut-off feature.

3. The noise level

The third thing to consider is the noise level. Some air conditioners are very quiet, while others can be quite loud.

If you have a small space, you'll want to make sure that you purchase a unit that won't disturb your peace and quiet.

4. Budget

The fourth thing to consider is the price. Air conditioners can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. It's important to set a budget before you start shopping so that you don't overspend.

5. The warranty

The fifth and final thing to consider is the warranty. Many air conditioners come with a one-year warranty, but some have longer warranties. You'll want to make sure that you're covered in case something goes wrong with your unit.

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Final thoughts

What is the best air conditioner for you? It really depends on your needs and budget. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive buying guide to help you find the perfect air conditioner – whether you need a low-cost option or are looking for something more luxurious.

We’ve also included some of our top picks for budget air conditioners, so be sure to check them out. If you have any questions about choosing an air conditioner or want advice on which model would be best for your home, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re always happy to help!