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10 Best Air Conditioners 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

BLACK+DECKER Smart Portable Air Conditioner with Heat, 14,000 BTU (10,200 BTU SACC) Cooling, 12,000 BTU Heating for Rooms up to 700 Sq. Ft., Follow Me Remote, BPACT14HWT, White

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,408
Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Noise Level

Most important from
44028 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTU)
The BLACK+DECKER unit easily cools a room in a few minutes and maintains a comfortable temperature all day.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
This machine is more efficient than previous models owned, providing good cooling in summer and heating in winter.
Noise Level
This air conditioner is much quieter than previous units owned, making it possible to have phone conversations without needing to turn it off.

The BLACK+DECKER Smart Portable Air Conditioner with Heat offers a solid cooling capacity of 14,000 BTU ASHRAE (10,000 BTU DOE), which is suitable for rooms up to 700 sq. ft. This makes it a good fit for medium to large-sized rooms. Additionally, it has a 12,000 BTU heating capacity, allowing it to be used year-round. The unit functions as a dehumidifier and fan, adding to its versatility.

The energy efficiency ratio (SEER) of 6.2 is relatively low, indicating higher energy consumption compared to more efficient models. It's important to note that this model is not Energy Star rated, which means it might not be the most cost-effective option over time for energy savings. The noise level is 54 dB, which is moderate and may be noticeable in quieter environments but should be acceptable for most users. The air conditioner is portable, making it easy to move around as needed.

Additional features include smart connectivity with Wi-Fi, app control, and voice commands via Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant, which add convenience. The 'Follow Me' remote control is another useful feature, allowing for more precise temperature control. The product includes an easy-to-install window kit for setup. Weighing 35 pounds and having compact dimensions, it should be manageable for most people to handle. Assembly is required, which might be a minor inconvenience for some users. This BLACK+DECKER unit is a versatile and convenient option, especially for those looking for a portable and smart-controlled air conditioner with heating capabilities, despite its higher energy consumption.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,408
Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Noise Level

Most important from
44028 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTU)
The BLACK+DECKER unit easily cools a room in a few minutes and maintains a comfortable temperature all day.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
This machine is more efficient than previous models owned, providing good cooling in summer and heating in winter.
Noise Level
This air conditioner is much quieter than previous units owned, making it possible to have phone conversations without needing to turn it off.
#2

Daikin 18,000 BTU (9K + 15K) 21SEER2 2-Zone Mini Split, Air Conditioner Heat Pump R-32 System with Maxwell 15 ft. Installation Kit and Wall Mounting Bracket

The Daikin 18,000 BTU 2-Zone Mini Split is designed to provide versatile cooling and heating for two separate areas, making it ideal for homes needing personalized temperature control in different rooms without ductwork. Its cooling capacity of around 18,000 BTU (split into 9,000 and 15,000 BTU zones) is well-suited for spaces up to roughly 1,150 square feet, handling moderate-sized rooms efficiently. The system boasts a high Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) and Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER of 21), which means it uses electricity efficiently—helping reduce energy bills. Operating quietly at just 24 decibels, it won’t disturb your daily life or sleep, a definite plus for bedrooms or living areas.

This mini split uses R-32 refrigerant, which is better for the environment compared to older types. Additional perks include smartphone and voice control compatibility, a Titanium Air Purifying Filter for improved air quality, and reliable heating and cooling even in temperatures as low as 5°F or as high as 115°F. Some downsides include that it’s not Energy Star rated, which some users might expect for energy-conscious purchases, and the complexity of installation usually requires professional help, especially since it’s a multi-zone system. Also, while it includes a 15-foot installation kit, longer distances might need extra accessories.

This product suits homeowners looking for a quiet, efficient, and flexible cooling and heating solution with smart features, particularly in situations where traditional ducted systems aren’t practical.

#3

3 Ton Goodman 14.5 SEER2 R-32 Air Conditioner Only Split System (GLXS4BA3610 AMST36CU1300)

Rating
8.5
Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Noise Level
Additional Features

Most important from
71 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Delivers consistent cooling to a comfortable temperature even during the hottest days.
Noise Level
Operates super quietly, a significant improvement over noisy previous units.
Additional Features
Installation is straightforward and hassle-free, making setup easy.

The Goodman 3 Ton 14.5 SEER2 air conditioner paired with the multi-positional air handler offers solid cooling performance suitable for homes around 2100 square feet. With a cooling capacity of 36,000 BTUs (3 tons), it can comfortably cool medium to larger rooms. The SEER rating of 14.5 means it is reasonably energy efficient, although not the highest available on the market, so expect moderate electricity use. At 67 decibels, the noise level is about average — you’ll hear it running, but it shouldn’t be overly disruptive.

This split system uses the newer, eco-friendlier R-32 refrigerant and comes with a 10-year parts warranty when professionally installed and registered, adding peace of mind. The included air handler is versatile, supporting different installation positions (upflow, horizontal right or left), which is helpful if your home’s ductwork is tricky. However, this system only cools and does not provide heating, so if you want heat, you’ll need extra equipment like a heat pump or a separate heat kit. Also, accessories like thermostats and outdoor sensors are sold separately.

It is a dependable choice if you want straightforward, efficient cooling and are okay with adding heating solutions on your own. While not the quietest or the most energy-saving model, it delivers reliable performance backed by a good warranty.

Rating
8.5
Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Noise Level
Additional Features

Most important from
71 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTU)
Delivers consistent cooling to a comfortable temperature even during the hottest days.
Noise Level
Operates super quietly, a significant improvement over noisy previous units.
Additional Features
Installation is straightforward and hassle-free, making setup easy.

Buying Guide for the Best Air Conditioners

Choosing the right air conditioner can significantly impact your comfort and energy bills. The key is to understand your needs and match them with the right specifications. Here are some important factors to consider when selecting an air conditioner.
Cooling Capacity (BTU)Cooling capacity, measured in British Thermal Units (BTU), indicates how much heat an air conditioner can remove from a room per hour. This is crucial because an air conditioner with too low a BTU rating won't cool the room effectively, while one with too high a rating will cool the room too quickly without removing humidity, leading to a clammy feeling. To choose the right BTU, consider the size of the room: small rooms (up to 150 sq. ft.) need around 5,000-6,000 BTU, medium rooms (150-300 sq. ft.) need 7,000-8,000 BTU, and large rooms (300-450 sq. ft.) need 10,000-12,000 BTU. For very large spaces, you may need 14,000 BTU or more.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)The Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) measures how efficiently an air conditioner uses energy to cool a room. A higher EER means better energy efficiency, which can lead to lower electricity bills. EER is calculated by dividing the BTU rating by the unit's wattage. Look for air conditioners with an EER of 10 or higher for good efficiency. If you prioritize energy savings and environmental impact, aim for the highest EER you can find within your desired cooling capacity.
Noise LevelNoise level, measured in decibels (dB), indicates how loud the air conditioner will be when operating. This is important for maintaining a comfortable and quiet environment, especially in bedrooms or living rooms. Air conditioners typically range from 40 dB (quiet) to 60 dB (moderate noise). If you are sensitive to noise or plan to use the unit in a quiet space, look for models with a noise level of 50 dB or lower.
Type of Air ConditionerThere are several types of air conditioners, including window units, portable units, split systems, and central air conditioning. Window units are easy to install and suitable for single rooms. Portable units offer flexibility and can be moved between rooms but may be less efficient. Split systems provide efficient cooling for multiple rooms and are quieter but require professional installation. Central air conditioning is ideal for cooling an entire home but involves higher installation costs. Choose the type based on your cooling needs, installation preferences, and whether you need to cool one room or multiple areas.
Additional FeaturesModern air conditioners come with various additional features that can enhance convenience and comfort. These may include programmable timers, remote controls, sleep modes, energy-saving modes, and smart connectivity for control via smartphone apps. Consider which features are important to you. For example, a programmable timer can help you save energy by cooling the room only when needed, while smart connectivity allows for remote operation and monitoring.

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