As summer temperatures rise, staying cool without breaking the bank is essential. Portable air conditioners offer an affordable and convenient way to beat the heat, especially in spaces like bedrooms, apartments, or offices. This guide reviews six of the best budget portable air conditioners, highlighting their key features and benefits to help you select the right model for your needs.
| Product | Cooling Capacity | Modes | Room Size | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| YIJU Portable Air Conditioners | 85W (Evaporative) | 4 | Variable | Windowless, Energy-Saving, Swamp Cooler |
| BLATACY Portable-Air-Conditioners 16,000 BTU | 16,000 BTU | 5 | Up to 730 sq. ft. | WiFi/App Control, Drainage-Free, Dehumidifier |
| DOMANKI 14,000 BTU Portable AC | 14,000 BTU | 3 | Up to 700 sq. ft. | Quiet Mode, Smart Sensors, Window Kit |
| BLACK+DECKER 12,000 BTU AC | 12,000 BTU | 3 | Up to 550 sq. ft. | 3-in-1, Remote Control, Auto Evaporation |
| Dreo Portable Air Conditioners 12,000 BTU | 12,000 BTU | 3 | Medium/Large Rooms | 46dB Quiet, APP/Voice Control, Drainage-Free |
| EUHOMY 8,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioners | 8,000 BTU | 4 | Up to 350 sq. ft. | 4-in-1, Sleep Mode, Energy Efficient |
Content Navigation
- YIJU Portable Air Conditioner: Windowless & Energy-Saving
- BLATACY 16,000 BTU WiFi Smart Portable AC
- DOMANKI 14,000 BTU Portable AC: Quiet and Smart Functions
- BLACK+DECKER 12,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner
- Dreo 12,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner: Quiet Operation and Smart Controls
- EUHOMY 8,000 BTU 4-in-1 Portable Air Conditioner
- Buying Guide: Choosing the Best Budget Portable Air Conditioner
YIJU Portable Air Conditioner: Windowless & Energy-Saving
The YIJU Portable Air Conditioner stands out for its windowless, plug-and-play design. With no assembly required and no window installation, this unit is especially convenient for spaces where venting isn’t possible. Utilizing advanced 2025 cooling technology and a 2.6-gallon tank, it offers high-capacity airflow (up to 2500 CFM), quickly reducing room temperatures by 50-59℉.
Equipped with four smart modes (Normal, Natural, Sleep, Cooling) and three fan speeds, you can adjust the settings for optimal comfort. The air supply reaches up to 28 feet, ensuring effective cooling across medium areas. Its energy-efficient motor operates at just 85W, cutting electricity consumption by up to 70% compared to traditional air conditioners. Additionally, the swamp cooler technology allows you to enhance cooling with ice packs, and the removable cooling pad eases maintenance. This model is particularly suitable for those seeking efficiency, low running costs, and easy operation in rooms where standard AC installation isn’t feasible.
BLATACY 16,000 BTU WiFi Smart Portable AC
The BLATACY Portable-Air-Conditioners unit delivers powerful 16,000 BTU cooling, capable of efficiently handling large rooms up to 730 square feet. Its 5-in-1 functionality combines cooling, three-speed fan, sleep mode, and dehumidification, adapting to different seasonal needs.
Smart technology is a highlight, featuring WiFi and app control for remote operation. You can schedule temperatures, monitor energy use, and receive maintenance alerts from your mobile device. A 24-hour timer allows precise climate control, and drainage-free operation saves on daily maintenance. With a cooling range adjustable from 61°F to 88°F, this unit fits well in living rooms, bedrooms, offices, basements, and more. The inclusion of a window kit streamlines installation, making this model flexible for renters or anyone needing a versatile and powerful yet affordable portable AC.
DOMANKI 14,000 BTU Portable AC: Quiet and Smart Functions
The DOMANKI 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner brings robust cooling to rooms up to 700 sq. ft., making it a good fit for larger bedrooms, apartments, or shared spaces. This CEC- and ETL-certified unit uses R32 refrigerant, offering efficient operation with a maximum airflow of 450 m³/hr and dehumidification up to 96.2 pints per day.
Its multi-function controls include cooling, dehumidification, fan modes, auto mode, turbo mode, sleep mode, four fan speeds, and an easy-to-use 24-hour timer. Smart sensors and an automatic evaporation system minimize maintenance by reducing the frequency of manual draining. Both the digital display and remote control provide intuitive access, with the remote effective up to 25 feet away—helpful for seniors or those wanting more convenience. The included windows kit ensures hassle-free installation in most window types, making this portable AC a practical, quiet, and energy-efficient budget choice for larger spaces.
BLACK+DECKER 12,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner
The BLACK+DECKER 12,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner is tailored for rooms up to 550 sq. ft., making it ideal for bedrooms, home offices, or small living rooms. Its 3-in-1 operation combines air conditioning, fan, and dehumidification for year-round comfort.
This model includes user-friendly features such as a remote control, a top-mounted control panel with an LED display, and a slide-out washable filter for easier maintenance. The auto water evaporation system means less frequent emptying, and the 24-hour timer provides flexible scheduling. Its portability, weighing in at 56.8 lbs. and featuring caster wheels, ensures it can be easily moved from room to room. Simple window kit installation allows for quick setup wherever needed. This BLACK+DECKER AC unit suits those who value reliability, functionality, and established brand support at a budget-friendly level.
Dreo 12,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner: Quiet Operation and Smart Controls
The Dreo AC515S Portable Air Conditioner offers 12,000 BTU (ASHRAE) of cooling power, suitable for both medium and larger rooms. Its standout feature is the quiet operation at only 46dB, achieved through advanced noise isolation around the compressor—ideal for bedrooms, nurseries, and offices.
Offering 3-in-1 modes (cooling, fan, dehumidifier), the Dreo model delivers flexible climate control between 65°F and 86°F. Smart integration, including app, voice, and remote control, fits modern smart home environments and enhances user convenience. The drainage-free operation reduces daily maintenance demands. With a 24-hour timer, this AC unit is flexible for daily and night schedules. The compact and modern design, combined with advanced features, make it a strong budget contender for users seeking low-noise operation and smart connectivity.
EUHOMY 8,000 BTU 4-in-1 Portable Air Conditioner
The EUHOMY 8,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner is designed for compact spaces up to 350 sq. ft., such as bedrooms, small apartments, RVs, dorms, or garages. Its 4-in-1 functionality includes air conditioning, dehumidification, fan, and a sleep mode for tailored air comfort.
With a strong maximum wind speed of 290 m³/h and a 16-foot air supply range, this unit ensures even cooling throughout your space. The temperature can be set as low as 61℉, and the dehumidifier removes up to 51 pints of moisture daily. Sleep mode dims the display and reduces noise to 52 dB for restful nights. The included timer (up to 24 hours) and energy-saving programming assist in reducing electricity consumption. The unit is easily installed with any hanging or sliding window using the included hose and adapter, providing a straightforward solution for smaller rooms needing efficient cooling.
Buying Guide: Choosing the Best Budget Portable Air Conditioner
Selecting a budget portable air conditioner involves balancing room size, cooling power, efficiency, features, and ease of use. Here’s what to consider when making your choice:
- Room Size & BTU Rating
Determine the size of the space to be cooled. Generally, higher BTU (British Thermal Unit) ratings mean more powerful cooling. For small rooms (less than 350 sq. ft.), 8,000 BTU may suffice. Larger rooms (up to 700 sq. ft.) require units of 12,000-16,000 BTUs. Over-sizing wastes energy, while under-sizing causes inefficient cooling. - Installation Flexibility
Some models are windowless (like swamp coolers) and require minimal setup. Others come with window kits for venting. Consider if you need a ductless option or if your space allows for window-based installation. - Operating Modes & Features
Most budget models include multiple functions such as cooling, fan, and dehumidifier. Advanced features may add sleep modes, auto timers, app/voice control, or smart sensors. Determine which features enhance your comfort and convenience. - Noise Level
Bedrooms and offices benefit from quieter models (below 50 dB). Noise ratings are crucial for restful sleep or maintaining a quiet work space. - Energy Efficiency
Look for units with energy-saving features, programmable timers, and eco-friendly refrigerants (like R32) to reduce operating costs and environmental impact. Review energy efficiency ratios (EER or CEER) if listed. - Maintenance
Drainage-free or auto-evaporation systems limit how often you need to empty water trays. Check for washable filters or accessible cooling pads for easy cleaning. - Portability & Size
Consider weight, caster wheels, and overall size, especially if you plan to move the unit between rooms. Compact models are easier to store when not in use. - Smart Controls
Features like WiFi/app or voice control, remote operation, and programmable timers can offer substantial convenience, particularly if you have a smart home setup or non-standard usage patterns.
When comparing these portable air conditioners, factor in your room’s needs, installation constraints, preferred feature set, and long-term energy savings. This will ensure you select the most suitable model that fits your budget while keeping you cool and comfortable through the heat.