What’s the Best Window Air Conditioner? 4 Options Ranked

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Evan Shephard Avatar

Reviewed By

Evan Shephard
Updated Jun 15, 2024 7:46 PM
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A whopping 75% of electronic and appliance reviews are untrustworthy. That’s why every reviewer gets a Trust Rating so our True Score System filters out the fake reviews. See how we do it.

When shopping for a window AC unit, you want cooling power, ease of installation, quiet operation and energy efficiency. Our buying guide focuses on models that offer efficient cooling and energy efficiency. Out of over 20 air conditioners evaluated, we identify the four top that “wowed” in testing.

Our process involves analyzing 170,616 reviews and certifying tested units with our proprietary and A.I.-powered True Score, filtering out fake and low-quality reviews. The selected models impress in cooling speed, energy efficiency, and quiet operation, proving their value for your comfort and convenience. Whether you’re looking for the best air conditioner for a small room or a large space, our top picks cater to various needs and preferences.

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How Did We Rank the Best Window Air Conditioners?

We scrutinized over 200 sites to give you the ultimate window air conditioner guide. Our process delved into rigorous testing methodologies, expert opinions, and customer feedback. Key criteria include 1 essential test result and 1 crucial specification. By distilling vast data, we ensure you get the most reliable and efficient options on the market.

Our commitment to unbiased reviews is powered by our ‘True Score’ system, targeting low quality and fake reviews. When you shop through our links, you’re backing our mission. Dive deeper to see how.

?️ Minimum Specifications

  • Must be a window A/C.

? Test Criteria

  • Operating Noise: Less than 55dB.

Latest Updates

  • 06/17/2024: Republished the list to include the best window air conditioners based on our True Score system.

Top Window Air Conditioners For 2024

Prices accurate at the time of publishing

See how we test the testers

  • Runner Up

    Best Value

    Best Budget

    gr recommended award

    Best Mid-Range

    Midea U-Shaped MAW08V1QWT

    Quiet and energy-efficient, the Midea U-Shaped MAW08V1QWT air conditioner is ideal for small spaces. It features a low noise level and high EER.

    Midea U-Shaped MAW08V1QWT Review →

    True Score

    86
    86
    1

    Experts

    89
    17k

    Customers

    SAVE $62
    $359.00
    $297.00

    Category Snapshot

    Air Conditioners

    • Total Brands/Products Tested

      11 Brands, 20 Products

    • Top 2 Brands

      LG, GE

    • Price Range (Budget-Premium)

      $200-$3,000+

    • Average True Score

      78.84

    • Important Test Criteria

      Cooling Speed (sec/min)

      Operating Noise (dB or dBA)

    • Most Trusted Testers

      air conditioner top trusted testers

    • Typical Warranty

      1 year

  • Runner Up

    Best Value

    Best Budget

    gr recommended award

    Best Mid-Range

    Midea U-Shaped MAW12V1QWT

    Midea U-Shaped MAW12V1QWT efficiently cools larger spaces with a high BTU and EER. It’s quiet, has Wi-Fi connectivity, and a long cord for easy installation.

    Midea U-Shaped MAW12V1QWT Review →

    True Score

    82
    80
    4

    Experts

    87
    17k

    Customers

    SAVE $28
    $479.99
    $451.80
  • Runner Up

    Best Value

    Best Budget

    gr recommended award

    Best Mid-Range

    Windmill AC 8000

    The Windmill AC 8000 simplifies cooling with its 6 ft cord and smart features, ideal for 350 sq ft rooms. Adjust settings via smartphone for added convenience.

    Windmill AC 8000 Review →

    True Score

    81
    80
    6

    Experts

    84
    777

    Customers

    $388.96
  • Runner Up

    Best Value

    Best Budget

    gr recommended award

    Best Mid-Range

    Hisense 10000-BTU Window AC

    The Hisense 10000-BTU Window AC offers straightforward cooling with smart connectivity. It is ideal for medium-sized rooms and provides comfort and ease of use.

    Hisense 10000-BTU Window AC Review →

    True Score

    80
    80
    2

    Experts

    79
    0

    Customers

    SAVE $60
    $299.99
    $239.82

Which Criteria Matters for Testing Best Window Air Conditioners?

By focusing on these criteria (1 required), anyone can quickly and easily compare these air conditioners and how they’ll perform. This helps you make an informed decision and purchase an air conditioner that has an operating noise of less than 55 dB.

CRITERIARANGEREQUIREDDEFINITION
Operating Noise< 55 dBYesHow much noise the unit makes while it is under normal operation.

Our Trusted Data Sources

We looked at 60+ air conditioner reviewers and found that 15 are trustworthy (60%+ Trust Rating). The three we have listed below are our most trusted for air conditioners.

  1. Austin Palmer – TechGearLab, MuckRack
  2. Daniel Jackson – Your Best Digs
  3. Derek Hales – Modern Castle, LinkedIn

Interested in a comprehensive analysis of our data sources? We’ve got you covered. Below, you’ll find a detailed list of every air conditioner review website we’ve identified, organized by their respective Trust Ratings from highest to lowest. But we didn’t stop there. We’ve meticulously reviewed each publication and verified the data by checking whether the authors have bio links to MuckRack or LinkedIn. We’re committed to not only checking the facts but ensuring their veracity.

Air Conditioner Test Data & Results

1. Operating Noise (dB)

All air conditioners make noise, this is a fact. Generally speaking, the more airflow an A/C unit has, the louder it’s going to be, and (logically) the more capable it is of cooling larger spaces (or smaller spaces more quickly.) Quieter A/C units are less disruptive and are often more attractive if you like a more peaceful home, but if your cooling needs are very high, be ready to see higher noise levels.

It’s for this reason we recommend an operating noise level around 55 dB or less. This puts it below the noise of a typical conversation and allows the sound to fade away into being background noise or even white noise. Higher volumes can be distracting, especially if you’re very sensitive to droningsounds.

Operating Noise (dB; lower is better; 0 = No Data)

Best Window Air Conditioners: Mistakes To Avoid

  1. Ignoring BTU Rating: Buying a window air conditioner without considering its BTU rating can lead to inadequate cooling or inefficiency. It’s important to choose a unit with a BTU rating that matches your room size. An underrated unit won’t cool effectively, while an overrated one will cycle too often, wasting energy.

  2. Neglecting Room Size: Underestimating the size of the room can result in an underperforming air conditioner, while overestimating can mean spending more than necessary. Measure your room’s dimensions and compare them to the manufacturer’s recommendations to ensure proper cooling capacity.

  3. Overlooking Energy Efficiency: Ignoring the energy efficiency rating of a window air conditioner can lead to higher electricity bills. Look for units with a high EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio) or ENERGY STAR certification to save money over time and reduce environmental impact.

  4. Not Checking Noise Levels: Overlooking the noise level of a window air conditioner can lead to a disruptive environment. Check the decibel (dB) rating to ensure the noise level is acceptable for your space, especially if it will be used in a bedroom or office.

The Best Window Air Conditioners Tests Compared

Product
True Score
Operating Volume
Recommended Room Size
Air Flow Rate
BTU Cooling Rating
Weight
86
  • 48.7 dB

  • 350 sq ft

  • 215 CFM

  • 8,000 BTU

  • 60 lbs

$297.00
$359
$62
82
  • 50.6 dB

  • 550 sq ft

  • 277 CFM

  • 12,000 BTU

  • 58.86 lbs

$451.80
$480
$28
81
  • 52.5 dB

  • 350 sq ft

  • 200 CFM

  • 8,000 BTU

  • 70 lbs

$388.96
80
  • 55 dB

  • 450 sq ft

  • 224 CFM

  • 10,000 BTU

  • 46.2 lbs

$239.82
$300
$60

Window Air Conditioner Questions (FAQ)

What features should I look for in the best window air conditioner?

When selecting a window air conditioner, look for features such as high BTU ratings for effective cooling, energy efficiency (Energy Star certification), multiple fan speeds, and a programmable thermostat. Additional features like a remote control, sleep mode, and dehumidification function can enhance convenience and comfort.

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