10 Best Portable Air Coolers 2025 in the United States

The BLACK+DECKER Smart Portable Air Conditioner with Heat is a versatile option for those looking to cool or heat a room up to 700 sq. ft. Its 14,000 BTU ASHRAE (10,000 BTU DOE) cooling capacity and 12,000 BTU heating capacity make it suitable for year-round use.

One of its standout features is its smart functionality, allowing control via a mobile app or voice commands through Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. The 'Follow Me' remote control feature enhances convenience by enabling precise temperature control from any part of the room where the remote is located. Additionally, the unit includes a dehumidifier and fan, making it a four-in-one appliance that can adapt to various needs throughout the year.

The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) of 6.2 suggests it may not be the most energy-efficient option available. The noise level of 54 dB is relatively moderate but may still be noticeable in quieter environments. Portability is a strong point, given its compact dimensions (16.5” x 14.06” x 27.09”) and a weight of 35 pounds, making it easy to move from room to room. An installation kit is included, simplifying setup. However, it lacks Energy Star certification, which might be a concern for eco-conscious users. This portable air cooler is best suited for those who need a multi-functional unit that can provide cooling, heating, and dehumidifying capabilities with the added convenience of smart controls.

The Hessaire MC18M portable swamp cooler offers solid cooling power with its 1300 CFM airflow, suitable for outdoor or large indoor spaces up to 500 square feet. Its 4.8-gallon water tank is fairly generous, allowing a few hours of continuous cooling before needing a refill. It uses energy efficiently at 82 watts, which helps reduce electricity costs compared to traditional air conditioners. Noise is moderate at about 53 dB—comparable to a quiet conversation—which makes it fairly unobtrusive but might be noticeable in very quiet settings.

The cooler is designed for portability with wheels and a top handle, weighing 16 pounds, making it easier to move around despite its size. The body is made from lightweight ABS resin, which balances durability with lightness. The two-speed fan control and a patented axial propeller improve air throw distance, enhancing comfort in larger areas. As an evaporative cooler, it works best in dry climates and outdoors, as it adds moisture to the air rather than lowering temperature like a refrigeration-based air conditioner.

Maintenance is simple but requires regular water refilling and occasional drying before storage. For those living in hot, dry areas and needing an energy-friendly, portable cooler mainly for outdoor or well-ventilated spaces, the Hessaire MC18M serves as a practical choice. It may not perform well in humid environments or sealed indoor rooms.

The 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner by DOMANKI is a robust cooling solution capable of cooling spaces up to 700 sq. ft., making it suitable for large rooms, offices, campervans, and temporary spaces. Its 3-in-1 functionality includes cooling, dehumidification, and fan modes, providing versatile climate control. The unit operates with a power consumption of 1300 watts and a voltage of 115V, which is standard for such devices.

It features a reasonable noise level of 52 dB, which can drop to 48 dB in sleep mode, ensuring a relatively quiet environment. Portability is enhanced by its compact design and caster wheels, although its weight of 73.8 pounds might make moving it around a bit cumbersome for some users. The water tank capacity is 1.2 gallons, which is modest but sufficient for typical use.

Additional features such as a remote control, smart functions (auto swing, 24-hour timer, sleep mode), and child lock add to its convenience and user-friendliness. It also includes a complete installation kit suitable for both vertical and horizontal sliding windows. A basic air filter is included, which, while not advanced, is removable and washable, aiding in maintenance. However, the unit's large dimensions and heavyweight might limit its desirability for users seeking extreme portability or those with minimal space. This unit is best suited for individuals needing a powerful, multi-functional cooling solution in a larger space.