Our Recommendation
This portable air conditioner’s powerful inverter compressor and dual function as a heater allow it to efficiently maintain a precise comfort level with minimal noise throughout the year.
The Midea Duo MAP14HS1TBL outperforms other portable air conditioners in terms of cooling capacity, energy efficiency, and noise reduction, thanks to its variable-speed inverter compressor and dual-hose design. It excels at evenly distributing cooled air, ensuring consistent temperatures throughout the room.
Additionally, the Duo MAP14HS1TBL comes equipped with standard smart-home features, such as Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant support. Its smartphone app and remote control offer extensive customization options for user convenience.
With its built-in heat pump that seamlessly switches between cooling and heating modes, this unit can provide climate control year-round, making it a versatile choice for any home.
Alternative Option
Similar in quietness to our top pick, this model offers slightly lower cooling power and does not include a heating function.
The Midea Duo MAP12S1TBL, a smaller version of our top choice, provides all the same features except for the heat pump. While it may be slightly less efficient due to portable air conditioner efficiency calculations, it boasts the same inverter compressor and dual-hose setup, delivering comparable performance.
Excellent Option
Although not an inverter model, this cooling and heating air conditioner matches the power of our top pick and ensures even air distribution throughout the room.
The Frigidaire FHPH142AC1 impresses with its ability to evenly cool a room within half a degree while operating quietly. Despite its lack of inverter technology, this single-hose Frigidaire AC offers powerful performance and minimal noise levels.
In addition to cooling, this Frigidaire model can also provide heat during colder months. However, its window-panel kit is not as robust as its competitors’, which slightly complicates the installation process.
Another Great Option
Featuring an efficient variable-speed compressor and built-in hose for easy setup, this portable air conditioner includes convenient storage but lacks a heating option.
If the Midea Duo models are not available, the single-hose LG LP1419IVSM is a suitable alternative with an efficient variable-speed inverter compressor.
Similar to our runner-up, it offers a straightforward installation process and does not have a heating feature. However, it has slightly higher cooling power than the runner-up.
This LG model is the most self-contained portable air conditioner tested, with built-in hose and storage compartments for easy packing and storage during winter.
Budget-Friendly Pick
While this model matches our other picks in cooling performance, it lacks premium features and has a louder operation.
The affordable Black+Decker BPACT14WT stands out for its cooling efficiency, making it a competitive option in its price range. However, it falls short in terms of user experience, with louder operation and fewer convenience features compared to other models.
Nevertheless, it remains a practical choice for those seeking a portable air conditioner at a more budget-friendly price point.
Additional Option
Equipped with a built-in battery for portability, this battery-powered portable air conditioner offers multiple charging options, albeit with slightly lower performance compared to our top picks.
The EcoFlow Wave 2 Portable Air Conditioner is a truly mobile option with a built-in battery that can provide up to eight hours of heating or cooling. This unit does not require window ventilation, making it ideal for various settings like tents, RVs, and partially enclosed spaces such as seasonal patios. While it may not cool entire rooms effectively, it excels at directing cooling or heating airflow towards specific individuals for personalized comfort.
