Finding a reliable and affordable portable air conditioner that fits your budget can be challenging. Below, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best portable air conditioners under $300, featuring a range of cooling powers, convenient features, and user-friendly designs. These models are ideal for small to medium rooms and come with added functions like dehumidifying, fan modes, and remote controls to enhance comfort.
| Product | BTU Cooling Capacity | Room Size Coverage | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| BLACK+DECKER Portable Air Conditioner | 5,100 BTU (SACC) | Up to 350 sq. ft. | 3-in-1 AC, Dehumidifier & Fan, Remote Control, Window Kit |
| WUEZOE Mini Portable Air Conditioner | Not specified (Evaporative cooler) | Personal/small room | 4-in-1 design: AC, Fan, Humidifier, Light; USB powered; Timer |
| Hisense 6,000 BTU Portable AC (Renewed) | 6,000 BTU (SACC) | Up to 250 sq. ft. | Remote control, 24-hour timer, low noise, dehumidifier |
| Antarctic Star 8,000 BTU Portable AC | 8,000 BTU (ASHRAE) | Up to 350 sq. ft. | 4-in-1 functions, remote, rolling wheels, quiet operation |
| Viemon 4-in-1 Portable Air Cooler Fan | Evaporative cooling | Small personal spaces | 3-speed fan, humidifier, 900mL water tank, LED lights |
Content Navigation
- BLACK+DECKER 5,100 BTU Portable Air Conditioner
- WUEZOE Mini Portable Air Conditioner with 4-in-1 Design
- Hisense 6,000 BTU Portable AC with Remote and Timer (Renewed)
- Antarctic Star 8,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner
- Viemon 4-in-1 Portable Air Cooler Fan with 900mL Water Tank
- Buying Guide for Portable Air Conditioners Under $300
BLACK+DECKER 5,100 BTU Portable Air Conditioner
The BLACK+DECKER BPACT05SM is a versatile 3-in-1 portable air conditioner, combining cooling, dehumidifying, and fan functions in one unit. Its cooling power of 5,100 BTU (SACC) makes it well-suited for rooms up to 350 square feet, which covers most small to medium bedrooms, offices, or apartments. The unit includes a full-function remote control and an easy-to-install window kit.
With user-friendly top-mounted controls featuring an LED display, it offers convenient operation. The multi-functional design ensures all-around indoor airflow control, providing fast and effective cooling. This model is ideal for those needing a compact and efficient AC combined with dehumidification capabilities.
WUEZOE Mini Portable Air Conditioner with 4-in-1 Design
This WUEZOE mini air conditioner emphasizes portability and multi-functionality with a 4-in-1 feature set that includes air cooling, a fan, humidifier, and night light. It rapidly lowers ambient temperature by up to 40-50℉ using evaporative cooling technology. Its compact design makes it perfect for personal use in bedrooms, dorms, or offices.
Charging through USB, it supports power banks and laptops, boosting its portability for both indoor and outdoor uses such as camping or office desks. The handle design facilitates easy carrying, and the unit has adjustable mist settings and fan speeds to customize comfort efficiently without complicated installation.
Hisense 6,000 BTU Portable AC with Remote and Timer (Renewed)
The Hisense 6,000 BTU portable air conditioner efficiently cools rooms up to 250 square feet, making it ideal for smaller spaces like bedrooms or offices. It features three operating modes: cool, dehumidify, and fan, giving users the flexibility to adjust according to needs.
This model provides quiet operation for undisturbed work or sleep and includes a programmable 24-hour timer so you can schedule cooling in advance. A remote control enhances convenience by allowing adjustments from anywhere in the room, enhancing user comfort and ease of use.
Antarctic Star 8,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner
The Antarctic Star 8000 BTU unit offers powerful cooling for spaces up to 350 square feet with added fan and dehumidification modes. It features a smart control panel and remote control for easy operation. Its rolling wheels allow effortless portability without permanent installation, suitable for apartments, dorms, and small living areas.
Designed for quiet operation with two fan speeds and a 24-hour timer, it fits well in bedrooms or offices where noise levels matter. The adjustable window kit accommodates a wide range of window sizes for flexible setup.
Viemon 4-in-1 Portable Air Cooler Fan with 900mL Water Tank
The Viemon portable air cooler combines an evaporative cooler, fan, humidifier, and LED light into one compact unit ideal for personal cooling. Its 900mL water tank supports 4-6 hours of continuous misting, enhancing the cooling effect in dry or warm environments.
This model offers 3 adjustable wind speeds and a timer that can be set for 2 or 4 hours. The air cooler’s oscillation and adjustable blowing direction help deliver targeted breathability for home or office use. It is best used in small personal spaces rather than large rooms.
Buying Guide for Portable Air Conditioners Under $300
Cooling Capacity and Room Size
Measure the room you plan to cool and choose an air conditioner with appropriate BTU capacity. Units with 5,000 to 8,000 BTU generally cover small to medium rooms (250-350 sq. ft.). Oversized units waste energy, while underpowered units will not cool effectively.
Portability and Installation
Look for ACs with built-in wheels or compact designs that are easy to move. Check if the window kit is adjustable for easy installation without permanent alteration. Some units, especially evaporative coolers, only require a simple power source and minimal setup.
Multi-function Features
Many models combine air conditioning with dehumidifiers and fans to increase versatility. Evaporative coolers add humidification, suitable for dry environments but less effective in high humidity. Consider what features fit your climate and personal preference.
Controls and Convenience
Remote control and LED display panels improve user experience. Timers and programmable settings save energy and allow scheduled operation. Adjustable fan speeds and oscillation enhance airflow customization.
Noise Level
Check manufacturer noise ratings, especially if the unit will be used in bedrooms or offices. Quiet operation is crucial for undisturbed sleep or concentration.
Power Source and Energy Efficiency
Energy-efficient models lower electricity costs. Some personal or evaporative portable air conditioners run on USB power, enhancing portability. For larger spaces, ensure the unit uses eco-friendly refrigerants and has high energy efficiency ratings.
Making an informed choice based on these factors ensures effective cooling, energy efficiency, and user comfort within a budget of $300 or less.