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We put 15 of the top window air conditioners to the test, installing them and recording ease of use and room-cooling power to help you choose the right model for your space
Credit: Brian Walker
By Austin Palmer ⋅ Senior Review Analyst ⋅ Updated March 26, 2026
You shouldn't have to choose between a cool living room and a conversation you can actually hear. After testing everything from budget box units to high-tech models, we've identified the best window air conditioners that balance raw cooling power with the energy efficiency and quiet performance needed to make even a record-breaking heatwave feel like a non-event.
After hundreds of hours “chilling” with these window AC units, the Midea Smart MAW08HV1CWT is our favorite. It is powerful enough to cool medium-to-large rooms and versatile enough to save energy, making it the best do-it-all air conditioner for most people. If you want a bedroom-ready option, the smaller LG LW6017R is the best simple budget air conditioner for most people.
We put 15 top window ACs through side-by-side lab testing to verify manufacturer claims. Using precision thermometers and power meters, we measured real-world cooling speed, energy draw, noise levels, and ease of installation to find the best models for your home.
No good window for mounting? We also tested portable air conditioners, and you can see how they compare to window-based options in our overall air conditioner review. If you need to move air around your home, our guide to the best fans will help you chill with a plan on the hottest of days.
Editor's Note: On March 26, 2026, we drastically changed the award line-up and updated the selection. We also added a new value section.
The Midea Smart MAW08HV1CWT is the best window air conditioner for most people, especially if it's your first time buying one. While it isn't the largest or most powerful option on the market, it's plenty capable of chilling typically sized rooms (like living rooms or kitchen/dining areas) in most homes up to 350 square feet. It is one of the quietest models we've ever tested, making it easy to comfortably hold conversations or sleep while the fan runs on high. The smartphone app is also excellent, allowing you to easily set precise fan speeds (from 1 to 100 percent), create custom schedules, and share controls with others in your home. As an added bonus, it also works as a built-in heater, making it incredibly versatile for areas with temperature swings in the spring and fall.
However, there are some important drawbacks for a new buyer to consider. You should understand that this 8,000 BTU unit does not possess the raw power of larger models needed for very large spaces. Furthermore, its heater function is only intended for moderate temperature shifts (like chilly mornings) and is absolutely not meant for extreme winter use. While it is mostly very quiet, we did notice some mildly annoying sounds coming from the fan, specifically when it was running at its lowest speeds. If you are extremely sensitive to minor noise and plan to run the fan on low frequently, you might want to consider a quieter alternative. Finally, you only truly get those potential power savings by running the AC on its “auto” setting; you won't see those benefits if you manually blast it at full power all day.
With 8K BTUs of cooling power, as well as a built-in heater, the versatile Midea Smart MAW08HV1CWT lets you fine-tune settings and schedules with its functional remote and awesome WiFi app. Credit: GearLab Staff
If you need a reliable window air conditioner for an average-sized room, like a standard bedroom or home office (around 250 square feet), the LG LW6017R is the best value available. It is incredibly easy to install and runs efficiently, keeping your long-term operating costs low. While it costs slightly more than the absolute cheapest options, it earns the extra expense by including useful features typically found on much pricier units, such as a full-function remote control, various fan settings, and an energy-saving Eco Mode. It is powerful enough for even hotter rooms, like kitchens, and has outperformed some larger 8,000 BTU models in cooling tests.
You should be aware that this unit prioritizes basic performance over modern “smart” features. The biggest compromise is noise; it runs slightly louder than premium, expensive models when the fan is on high. It also lacks advanced features, meaning it does not have Wi-Fi compatibility, and you cannot control it via your phone or a smart app. However, if you are simply looking for a unit that will make your space comfortable without overcomplicating things, the balance of performance, features, and price here is hard to beat.
Very basic controls limit your ability to fine-tune the temperature
Lower cooling power (5,000 BTUs) compared to slightly more expensive models
SPECIFICATIONS
Recommended Cooling Area
150 sq ft
BTU Rating
5000 BTU
Window Width Minimum
23"
Window Height Minimum
13"
Measured Weight
37.3 lb
If you just need to cool a small space and want to spend as little as possible, the Midea EasyCool is a reliable, no-nonsense choice. It costs even less than other top budget picks, but it still delivers exactly what you need with a delightfully simple, old-school knob design that anyone can figure out instantly. Beyond the cheap upfront price, it also consumes very little energy, meaning it won't spike your summer utility bills. Plus, it is remarkably easy to install, so you can go from unboxing to cooling down your bedroom in no time.
The trade-off for that rock-bottom price is a distinct lack of modern features and raw power. With a lower 5,000 BTU capacity, it simply doesn't have the cooling muscle of slightly more expensive models, so it will struggle in anything larger than a small office or bedroom. Those simple analog knobs also mean you cannot set a precise target temperature or set a timer, limiting your ability to fine-tune your comfort. Finally, it runs a bit loud—so if you are a light sleeper, the constant hum might take some getting used to.
The ease is in the name: the EastCool was one of the easiest and smallest air conditioners to install. Not a big deal if your window air conditioner is permanent, but we appreciate it if you only need to use it a few months a year. Credit: Brian Walker
Product Comparison Table
How We Tested
Since we started testing AC units in 2018, our test team at GearLab has tested dozens of portable and window ACs, and we've been testing household appliances, like the best humidifiers and fans, even longer. To begin this review, we researched readily available window air conditioners and then tested them in our controlled lab environment. We put each unit through our comprehensive and rigorous side-by-side comparison testing process.
In our controlled lab testing room, we measured how quickly each air conditioner could chill a warm room in one hour, as well as measured noise output and energy consumption to help you decide which AC is right for your window and room. Credit: Natalie Kafader
We measured their energy consumption, evaluated how well they cooled our controlled test space, measured the noise level each unit produced, assessed their ease of installation, and evaluated the convenience of all the included features and functions. To help you find the right AC unit, we selected 12 AC options with multiple power levels and features, which we compared and contrasted using details from our test results and in-person experiences. Our full How We Test article details more info.
Our testing of window air conditioners is divided into five metrics:
Cooling (30% weight of overall score)
Energy Consumption (25% weight)
Noise (20% weight)
Convenience (15% weight)
Installation (10% weight)
We independently purchase every product we test and do not accept ANY manufacturer freebies, so you can rest assured that our results and award winners are unbiased and based only our personal experiences with these air conditioners. Credit: Austin Palmer
Why Trust GearLab
Our window air conditioner test team is led by Austin Palmer, who has spent many months collecting data on both window and portable ACs, which is then translated into readable results by our GearLab tech-guru reviewers Ben Hickok and Chris Maxcer. The three bring together years of in-the-trenches knowledge and experience with the use and testing of home appliances, tools, furniture, and consumer electronics. They've captured hard data in this window air conditioner review to help us compare specific performance differences we found during testing and to help you understand which features and specifications are important factors when buying a window AC for your home or workspace.
After installing each AC, including the Windmill AC 8K BTU with Whisper Tech shown in our test room in our lab, we spent hours testing performance, measuring cooling output, and evaluating controls. Credit: Natalie Kafader
Analysis and Test Results
To identify the best window air conditioner units on the market today, our team conducted extensive research into the top models currently available. We then purchased the models that looked promising and would likely have the performance and features you care about most when it's time to choose and install one in your own home.
Worse Value
Better Value
What's the Best Value?
For shoppers on the strictest budget looking to cool a small room, the Midea EasyCool MAW05M1BWT represents the most basic, entry-level value. It costs less than the other options, but that lower upfront price means you are sacrificing power and convenience. With only 5,000 BTUs and “very basic” analog controls, it lacks the ability to fine-tune your comfort. It is the best value only for someone who needs a functional, no-frills cooler for a small space (up to 150 square feet) and absolutely cannot stretch their budget any further.
The LG LW6017R hits the ultimate value “sweet spot” for most buyers. Paying “a bit more” for this unit than the basic Midea EasyCool is worth it for many people. For a highly approachable price, you gain a remote, an “eco” energy-saving mode, and 6,000 BTUs of power, which cooled the test room 9% more effectively than the EasyCool. Because it balances low upfront costs with low long-term operational costs, it is the best value for the average person looking to efficiently cool a standard bedroom or home office.
By measuring energy consumption during our 1-hour cooling room test, we can calculate comparative energy usage costs among the different AC window units for longer periods of time, including a 3-month estimate to reflect typical usage patterns. Credit: Austin Palmer
Our top-rated Midea Smart MAW08HV1CWT requires a higher initial investment but provides the best long-term value for those cooling larger spaces (up to 350 square feet). Its value comes from its energy-efficient inverter technology, which can save you money on utility bills over time by operating at lower speeds when full power isn't needed. With 8,000 BTUs, ultra-quiet operation, and a highly functional WiFi app for setting smart schedules, this model offers the best value for someone willing to pay more upfront for premium features, lower noise, and greater efficiency.
Cooling
Nearly all window air conditioner units have manufacturer-recommended cooling area sizes, labeled as square-footage estimates of how large a room an AC unit can effectively cool. It's a great starting point for figuring out how well an air conditioner is likely to cool your space.
To create a more measurable comparison of performance, our cooling evaluation lab tested and recorded each model's ability to reduce the heat in a temperature-isolated 10' x 14' test room within one hour. Our 140-square-foot lab room closely mimics a small home living space, but we should note that our ceiling is 12 feet tall, so performance will vary in rooms with lower ceilings or different shapes.
The BTU ratings for the units tested ranged from 5,000 to 12,000. Normally, BTU is directly correlated to cooling ability. Interestingly, some units with lower BTUs performed as well as or better than higher-BTU units. For example, the Windmill AC 8K BTU with Whisper Tech, which reduced our test room temperature by 8.6°F, was not as good as some 5,000 BTU units.
We installed each air conditioner in the same test window. Credit: Natalie Kafader
Two new 5K BTU units cooled remarkably well for their size, too: the Frigidaire FHWC054TE1 dropped the temperature in our test room by 8.0°F in one hour, proving that it was more than capable of cooling bedrooms or small office spaces.
We test and record temperature of the air coming immediately out of each air conditioning unit as part of our cooling test scoring system. Credit: Natalie Kafader
As expected, the largest 12,000 BTU options outperformed the smaller models by a significant margin.
In our 1-hour cooling test, we record the starting temperature in our controlled test room, then run each air conditioner on high to see how many degrees each unit is able to drop the ambient temperature. Credit: Austin Palmer
One 8,000-BTU “quiet” model underperformed in our 1-hour cooling test: The Windmill AC 8K BTU with Whisper Tech posted low cooling scores. You trade a bit of cooling speed for a quieter experience and longer run times to maintain your desired temperature.
The average cooling power ranged from 5K to 12K BTU, and the average temperature drop in our test room over one hour was 9.93°F. One 6K BTU-rated unit stood out for its very respectable performance — the LG LW6017R.
Energy Consumption
Our test team measured the energy usage of each model in our evaluation, which can significantly affect your overall cost. The manufacturer's reported BTU rating provides a general indication of energy consumption. Higher BTU output requires more energy, meaning they'll be more powerful but cost more to run.
When our team used a watt meter to measure the kilowatt-hours of energy consumed, it revealed that some AC units are more energy-efficient than others, even when they're in the same BTU range. For this test, we ran each unit at its highest power and fan speed settings for one hour and collected the usage data. Our energy consumption data identified both energy-efficient models and some energy hogs.
Larger air conditioners usually draw more electricity, but sometimes we find surprising differences among models with the same size rating.
When we estimated the cost differences for running each air conditioner, we also calculated the estimated summer cost to run each unit for 12 hours per day over 90 days, which is fairly typical summertime use in many homes.
Reading the energy consumption of units with a watt meter was our standard test procedure for every model. Credit: Brian Walker
Unsurprisingly, the smallest BTU-rated air conditioners are the least costly to run, with our three 5K options costing an estimated $72.92 for 3 months of predicted heavy summertime usage.
Our Energy Consumption chart accounts for both our test performance and differences in how inverter and non-inverter AC systems operate. Generally, an inverter-powered AC unit features a variable-speed compressor, which reduces energy consumption as it transitions to temperature-maintaining modes. Our 1-hour cooling test simulates a scenario in which inverter air conditioners operate at 100% compressor capacity for the entire hour. Inverter technology allows a machine to run much more efficiently than simply cycling the compressor motor on and off. They generally consume less energy than similarly rated BTU models when run for hours on end.
Three 5K BTU units, the Frigidaire FFRA051WAE, and the Midea EasyCool MAW05M1BWT, earned the same final scores, putting them in a three-way tie for second, with the LG LW6017R hot on their heels. If you're looking for the most affordable window air conditioners for relatively small rooms, including ongoing operating costs, these four options offer a compelling value.
The Frigidaire FHWC054TE1 consumed just 0.47 kWh of energy while running on its highest setting. Credit: Austin Palmer
Noise
Adding a window air unit is supposed to make a space feel more pleasant, but a noisy fan or a compressor motor cycling on and off can seriously kill a vibe. Our noise metric measures and evaluates each model's loudness, identifying the quietest models. We also point out some really loud models that may not be the best choice, even if their respective cooling performance is great.
The quietest air conditioners sometimes trade a bit of raw cooling power for a more pleasant experience. For instance, the Windmill AC 8K BTU with Whisper Tech, which is one of the quietest models we've ever tested, did not cool our test room as quickly as the much louder and larger models. However, the Midea Smart MAW08HV1CWT was just as quiet as the Windmill but maintained quick cooling capabilities.
We measured average sound pressure with the fan on high, medium, and low from 4 feet away, making sure the air flow did not move over the mic. The Windmill AC 8K BTU with Whisper Tech, shown in our testing lab here, registered as one of the quietest window air conditioners we've ever tested. Credit: Austin Palmer
The majority of models produced sounds registering at low-to-mid 60 decibels, but some also had more disruptive sounds, like a fan blade or compressor, that were more annoying than others. For reference, we can usually speak at normal levels and comfortably enjoy music from a laptop with background noise around 58 dBa and below.
Our decibel meter measures physical pressure changes in the air to indicate sound loudness, but human perception of different sound frequencies can vary. Subjectively, our testers sometimes noted that certain air conditioners seemed slightly louder or quieter than the measurement. Credit: Austin Palmer
Because some people experience the sound of a fan or a compressor a bit differently, our scores take into account the impressions of different members of our testing crew, letting us nudge the score slightly toward how each AC sounds compared to the others in our test room. In the chart below, the higher the rating, the quieter the air conditioner seemed to our testing crew.
The clear takeaway from our noise test is that the Windmill AC 8K BTU with Whisper Tech and Midea Smart MAW08HV1CWT are both very quiet. If you're sensitive to noise or simply want to cool a room while watching a show, participating in a home office teleconference, or listening to a podcast, these two models are outstanding. We also appreciated the LG Smart LW1022FVSM, which is rated for 150 more square feet than the 8K BTU Midea. While the noise measured slightly louder at 53.9 dBa on high, the LG's LoDecibel quiet operation seemed to work well. We could even lower the music volume from our test laptop and still distinguish the lyrics.
With a tested dBa of 61.1, this Black+Decker BD08WT6 sounds about average for a window air conditioner. It's a bit loud on high to enjoy a normal conversation, but it's also not egregious, either. Credit: Austin Palmer
Convenience
Our convenience metric evaluates several key features and functions, from air direction adjustments to smart apps. We also weigh in on whether each unit includes an effective child lock for those with little ones.
Simple models without WiFi access were the easiest and fastest to set up. Smarter models, such as the Windmill AC 8K BTU with Whisper Tech and LG Smart LW1022FVSM, took us 40-45 minutes to set up with WiFi and an app.
A mobile app can make controlling your air conditioner a breeze. Credit: Natalie Kafader
Our testing identified two exceptional models: the Midea Smart MAW08HV1CWT and LG Smart LW1022FVSM really outshine the rest of the ACs in the test lineup, offering powerful features, easy mode changes, and smart capabilities that allow them to be controlled remotely.
The simple remote with large buttons for the GE AWCS05BWA is easy to use, making it a particularly user-friendly choice for aging adults. Credit: Natalie Kafader
While apps can offer convenience, other factors are important as well. Four other models without WiFi scored very well with our convenience raters in our lab due to their above-average mode selections, effective airflow adjustments, and easy-to-use remote controls.
This Black+Decker AC lacks a WiFi app but makes up for it with effective controls, mode options, and a remote control. Credit: Natalie Kafader
The LG LW6017R doesn't let you split the airflow horizontally like some models, but its modes, remote, and timer options all ranked above average, making it surprisingly usable for a relatively small 6,000-BTU model. Most of the smaller AC units we test tend to have fewer features as the price point comes down.
Our testers found the LG LW6017R controls easy to understand and use. Credit: Austin Palmer
Remote controls are great for bedrooms or any location where window access isn't easy or convenient. Credit: Natalie Kafader
The Black+Decker BD08WT6 impressed us with its ability to let you set timers with the remote when the AC unit is turned off. We were surprised by how much we appreciated being able to adjust the settings from the remote and see which mode the air conditioner would be in when it was scheduled to turn on. Despite not having a WiFi app, the functionality is a bit more powerful than that of comparably priced AC models with remotes.
While most apps let you change temperatures, modes, and set schedules, the Midea app includes advanced diagnostic features, and the system lets you connect to voice-enabled services like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. Credit: Brian Walker
After testing dozens of air conditioners, we discovered a feature we didn't realize we would come to love: Midea's WiFi app lets you turn off the annoying beeps when changing modes. If you're looking for an air conditioner that quiets more than just fan noise, this is the unit for you.
While we often associate many features with convenience, that's not always the case. If you don't use all the extra features, they can be more of a pain than help. If you're looking for super-simple AC functions that just blow cool air, the Frigidaire FFRA051WAE, GE AWCS05BWA, and Midea EasyCool MAW05M1BWT are the simplest models we tested. They may be great for those who don't want to deal with techy controls when seeking relief from the heat.
Sometimes all you really need are easy-to-use and understand knobs to control a basic air conditioner, though the knob settings shown here don't tell you what temperature you're trying to achieve. Credit: Brian Walker
Installation
While it is unlikely you'll install a window unit more than once a year when taking it out of storage in preparation for the summer months, the ease of installation should still be a serious consideration.
We spent many hours installing and testing air conditioners in our lab, including the Windmill AC 8K BTU with Whisper Tech, which came with a pre-built install kit and double-insulating side panels. Credit: Austin Palmer
A few units are too heavy or cumbersome for a single person to install; however, for the most part, our lead tester was able to install them on his own. However, for most of them, the process will be much easier if you can enlist a friend to help.
For this metric, we spend hours upon hours installing each unit individually. Sometimes, we were able to do it on our own, but oftentimes, we needed assistance.
Smaller, lighter air conditioners are usually the easiest to lift into place and install in most windows, letting our lead tester install them without assistance in our test window. Credit: Brian Walker
The easiest to install were the Midea EasyCool MAW05M1BWT. The Midea installs with fewer than ten steps and isn't too much more difficult than removing the unit from the box, installing the top bar, inserting the accordion-style curtains through the tabs, inserting the rails of the frame for both sides, and then placing it onto the window before securing the unit with some screw locks and brackets.
This 8K BTU Black+Decker BD08WT6 was a pretty straightforward, typical install for our lead tester. Credit: Austin Palmer
A typical installation process takes between 20 and 30 minutes. Both GE units have nearly identical installation steps and were nearly as easy to install as the Midea EasyCool MAW05M1BWT.
Outside the top models, you can plan to carve out 30 minutes to install most of the models we tested. Installation will probably go smoother if you recruit a friend to help lift the unit out of the box and into place.
It took our experienced lead tester about 30 minutes to install the LG Smart LW1022FVSM, but he recommends you read the instructions carefully on this one before doing the install, primarily to make a decision around using or not using some adhesive foam insulation, which you may not want to use if you plan on storing your AC elsewhere part of each year. Credit: Austin Palmer
The most tedious part of installing most window air conditioners is ensuring that all gaps are sealed. As much as we appreciate the Midea Smart MAW08HV1CWT, it has some noticeable gaps near the side curtains. The Frigidaire FHWC054TE1 might not sit right in all windows because it has a pop-out metal section at the bottom, which will require shims or additional foam to seal.
How to Choose a Window Air Conditioner
Finding the right window air conditioner depends on factors like your climate, home size, and what a comfortable temperature is to you. Selecting the right one for your needs is easier when you keep a few key factors in mind.
Calculating the square footage of the room you want to cool is the first step. If you have a large, open living area that's 450 square feet with open halls, a small air conditioner rated for 250 square feet will simply not provide enough power for the job. In this case, it would be beneficial to opt for a slightly larger air conditioner that you run less often or operate at lower modes, essentially allowing you to tap into extra power only on the hottest days. Of course, you'll also need to measure your window opening to ensure that it is large enough to fit the AC you choose. If you only need to cool your bedroom or office, then a smaller AC will work just fine.
Smaller air conditioners and more feature-rich modern air conditioners with timers, inverters and variable-speed compressors tend to consume less electricity. If your schedule isn't easily predictable from week to week, WiFi-enabled air conditioners let you turn them on before you arrive home or turn them off when you realize you'll be staying out longer than expected. Sometimes, you can spend a bit more for a more energy-efficient model that will pay off economically and ecologically over time through reduced electricity usage. This calculation could be particularly important if you live in an area that has high electricity utility costs.
While we'd much rather be comfortably cool than sweaty and hot, listening to a loud air conditioner can get really annoying after multiple hours. In addition, if your air conditioner is near your TV or any relaxation space, a loud fan or compressor noise can make it hard to hear everything you care about. Ideally, this isn't a trade-off you have to make, but with higher-powered units (or budget models), you can expect louder motor and fan noise. If your budget allows and you prefer quiet spaces, choose a quieter air conditioner—and you'll likely appreciate it.
The convenience factor will depend very much on the location of your window. If it's in a hard-to-reach place because furniture is in the way, definitely get a model with a remote control. The same advice goes for any AC in a bedroom window — you'll appreciate the ability to kick it on or off in the middle of the night from your bed. Sleep is important, and if you can get back to sleep faster, it could be a game-changer for you.
In our experience, most WiFi apps were only slightly more convenient than most remote controls. The key convenience feature is the ability to start, stop, adjust or schedule your air conditioner when you're not home. Credit: Natalie Kafader
Conclusion
We hope our extensive research, product selection, testing, and evaluation of the top window air conditioners available today, as well as our process for identifying award-winning models, will help you find the perfect unit for your needs. If you are interested in a guide on how to select a unit, then please take a look at our Buying Advice article. Or perhaps you aren't sold on a window unit and are looking at other cooling options. In that case, you may be interested in our comprehensive review of the best portable air conditioner units on the market today.
