13 Best Smallest AC Tested + Buying Guide for Micro AC’s | 2020
Have you contemplated buying a small AC, but couldn’t make up your mind? Admittedly, the many advantages of these mini-versions are gaining popularity over the more traditional designs. Not only affordability, but their multi-purpose utility has also attracted the attention of old and new users alike. To have a better understanding of things, we decided […] The post 13 Best Smallest AC Tested + Buying Guide for Micro AC’s | 2020 appeared first on Homesthetics - Inspiring ideas for your home..
Have you contemplated buying a small AC, but couldn’t make up your mind?
Admittedly, the many advantages of these mini-versions are gaining popularity over the more traditional designs. Not only affordability, but their multi-purpose utility has also attracted the attention of old and new users alike.
To have a better understanding of things, we decided to purchase one such unit but came back as quickly as we had left the premise. Why, you ask? Well, because the options are just too many!
So that our readers don’t suffer the same fate as us, we decided to compile the following list of the 13 best smallest ACs up for grabs. And to give you an even clearer picture, we tried each model to observe the individual merits and demerits.
Let’s start with the proceedings!
Top Smallest AC
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | DETAILS | |
|---|---|---|---|
Our Top PickOur Top Pick
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De'Longhi 3-in-1 Portable Air Conditioner |
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VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
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Haier HPC12XCR Portable Electronic Air Conditioner |
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VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
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LG LP1017WSR |
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VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
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EdgeStar AP8000W |
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VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
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BLACK+DECKER BPACT08WT |
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VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
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Friedrich ZoneAire PH14B |
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Honeywell MM14CCS |
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VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
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Whynter ARC-122DHP |
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VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
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Aux Portable Follow Me Air Conditioner |
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VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
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hOmeLabs 5000 BTU Window Mounted Air Conditioner |
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VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
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PIONEER Mini Split Air Conditioner |
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VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
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Frigidaire FFRA0511U1 |
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VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
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Honeywell MO08CESWK |
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VIEW LATEST PRICE → |
Our final pick is the De’Longhi 3-in-1 Portable Air Conditioner that employs a range of features for maximum cooling and optimum user-comfort. Its stylish design is built for saving power in larger rooms while maintaining a cool airflow. Just roll in the unit to your desired spot and get started!
- COOLING POWER: Cools rooms up to 600 square feet in total...
- MULTIFUNCTIONAL FOR MAXIMUM COMFORT: 3-in-1 unit features...
- BREATHE EASIER: The Bio Silver Filter helps prevent the...
- NO TOOLS REQUIRED: Unit sets up in minutes. Caster wheels...
Why Did We Like It?
First and foremost, the no-drip technology demanded every bit of our attention. It simply recycles the condensed air to cool down the interior of the unit, while preventing any leaks on the outside. Since the motor remains cool, its efficiency and life span increases in the longer span.
Furthermore, the motorized control can direct the airflow higher or lower, as per the specific needs. This is a good way to ensure the elimination of hotspots in the room. Combine it with the variable fan speed, and you’ve a highly customized output for every environment.
Also, its distinct BioSilver filter prevents mildew and the mold growth, thereby promoting healthy air circulation.
Last but not least, the unit can be operated by the remote and a front-faced touch panel that automatically dims the light after a few seconds.
What Could’ve Been Better?
Perhaps the only minor glitch is the absence of a LED display on the remote. This means that you won’t have an idea about the current temperature without looking at the display on the unit. Moreover, you can set the switch on/off cycle, but it doesn’t have a 24-hour timer like some others.
- Caster wheels
- 3 fan speeds
- Hassle-free installation
- Low noise
- Remote doesn’t have a display
Haier is a popular name in the air-conditioner market, and its HPC12XCR makes a deserving entry on our list. The model sports a sleek and lightweight design that is suitable for cramped spaces and portability needs. What’s more? Its electronic controls will get the job done rather easily.
- Electronic controls with full function remote control
- Digital time/temperature display and control with 24 hour...
- 3 cooling and fan speeds
- Dehumidify mode
Why Did We Like It?
First and foremost, the 12,000 BTU cooling capacity is what drew our attention. With a high airflow of around 190 CFM, the unit can seamlessly cool down spaces up to 450 square feet in size. Plus, the user can choose from three different fan speeds for customized cooling.
Similar to the Honeywell MO08CESWK, this unit can also operate for circulating air or dehumidifying the room just as effectively. Furthermore, the remote control feature lets you access it from across the room.
But what really takes user-convenience a notch higher is its switch on/off timer. Simply program it to turn on or off after running anywhere between 1 and 24 hours. This way, you don’t have to get up in the middle of the night to switch off the unit.
Weighing around 56 pounds, the HPC12XCR comes with a 5 feet exhaust hose and 6 feet power cord. So, even if you don’t have a window nearby, installing this unit shouldn’t be a problem. All in all, its small size definitely packs a punch, almost at par with some of its bigger alternatives.
What Could’ve Been Better?
Despite having an auto-start feature, it takes the air-conditioner some time to begin with the cooling process. This wasn’t a huge concern for us but may disappoint those users who want instant cooling. But once it kicks into action, its efficiency is next to none.
- Auto-evaporation
- Digital setting panel
- Exhaust hose compatible with horizontal and vertical window
- Easy to clean slide-out mesh filter
- Doesn’t start immediately
The LG LP1017WSR is a 115 V air-conditioner that is designed to suit every room need, no matter how small. Its elegant design is equipped with several user-friendly features that don’t need constant attention and maintenance. If you’re on the hunt for high performance on a budget, then this unit is worth considering.
- Your purchase includes One LG LP1017WSR 10,200 BTU Portable...
- Air conditioner dimensions: 16.93” W x 27.36” H x...
- Performance: 10,200 BTU. Dehumidification: 5.3 pts/hr. |...
- Other specifications: Dry Air Flow (CFM) 220 | Voltage / 60...
Why Did We Like It?
First up, let’s talk a bit about the oscillating air discharge vent that swings up and down for sweeping air in an even manner. This is a good feature to eliminate hotspots, and can be turned on or off as per preference. Besides, its 10,000 BTU capacity does well to fit the needs of a 300 square feet room.
Similar to the other two models, this one also has three different modes to choose from. The cool mode runs the AC and uses the auto-evaporating feature to prevent water accumulation. Switch to the dry mode to activate dehumidification, and opt for the usual fan mode for air circulation.
Also, it displays an error-code when it’s time to remove the rear plug for draining. Since we were feeling lazy, we used a discharge hose instead and placed a bucket at the end for automating the process.
In addition to the remote control, this unit can also be operated via the LED touch panel to select the modes and fan speeds. Lastly, the thermostat allows you to maintain a comfortable temperature throughout.
What Could’ve Been Better?
The hose attachment outlet located at the back of the machine leaks hot air, thus hampering its efficiency. In case you decide to use a hose, we’d strongly recommend using some duct tape to cover up the gaps. A little extra effort, and you should be good to go!
- Water collection tank with output port
- Timer control
- Low maintenance filters
- Includes slide-together window bracket
- Rear discharge of warm air
A top choice for smaller rooms, the EdgeStar AP8000W is loaded with a range of features to ensure adequate cooling. It’s hassle-free installation and a quick three-step setup is ideal for first-time users. Complete with remote control and casters, this unit won’t make you break the bank.
- 8,000 BTU (ASHRAE-128 Standard) / 4600 BTU (DOE 2017...
- 24 hour programmable timer; 3 speed fan with directional air...
- Dehumidifier function- Up to 50 pints/day; Adustable digital...
- All portable air conditioners including this one must be...
Why Did We Like It?
For starters, the positive customer feedback helped us put our trust in the product. Agreed that the 8,000 BTU might not sound like a lot of power, but we were satisfied with its cooling for our 150 square feet spare room. Moreover, the unit draws a reasonable 115 V that won’t rack up the electricity bills.
Coming to its controls, the adjustable digital thermostat enables its built-in dehumidifier to absorb up to 50 pints of moisture a day. Furthermore, the self evaporative system gets rid of the condensed liquid without requiring manual drainage. The only thing to note is that if the unit is placed away from the window, the exhaust pipe’s end should be contained in a bucket to prevent overflow.
Another all-out highlight is the automatic intelligent restart feature, which saves the existing setting. This will come in handy during power cuts, and make the machine run just as before when supply is resumed.
Lastly, the user may choose between the high, medium and low fan speed for the desired output and related noise level. Overall, we liked it’s capability to deliver consistently at minimal maintenance.
What Could’ve Been Better?
Similar to the Honeywell MO08CESWK, the operational sound on this one is slightly more in comparison to the design. Other than that, the unit performs exceptionally well for its affordable price.
- Slim and lightweight design
- Includes replaceable carbon filter
- 24-hour programmable timer
- Ozone friendly
- Noisy
The Black+Decker BPACT08WT is a compact, powerful and sturdy little unit for optimum performance at a reasonable price. Equipped with a couple of smart features, it’s a self-reliant machine that doesn’t demand constant supervision. Take your pick from the 4 BTU variants to suit your needs on a budget.
- QUIET & POWERFUL - Our 8,000 BTU compact air conditioner...
- PERFECT FOR SMALL ROOMS - This floor-standing portable AC...
- SIMPLE & QUICK TO INSTALL – Just wheel this portable air...
- EASY TO USE & CLEAN – The simple remote control &...
Why Did We Like It?
First things first, its versatility compelled us to try the product. Not only can it be used as a dehumidifier and ventilator, but its floor-standing build has been designed to be compatible with both sliding and double-hung windows. Moreover, the 5-feet long exhaust pipe lets you place the unit at a suitable spot, not necessarily near the window.
In addition to the more usually found 24-hour timer setting, we were pleased to see a special sleep-mode which automatically adjusts the temperature at night. Both the features are remote controlled and ensure optimum power saving.
So that you have a supply of clean and breathable air, the filters on the unit can be removed easily for a thorough wash. For best results, we’d suggest cleaning them at least twice a month when being used regularly.
Last but not least, the four caster wheels allow you to easily slide the unit in and out of the room for convenient storage. If you’re looking for some power cooling for those cramped up spaces, the Black+Decker BPACT08WT is worth considering.
What Could’ve Been Better?
The window panel that comes in the installation kit is a bit wider than usual. We are not really critical about it, but users who have narrower windows may need to put in some extra effort for sizing the panel without causing any damages.
- Automatic restart feature
- Suitable for RVs and dorms
- Self-evaporating function
- 65-degree Fahrenheit at lowest fan speed
- Window panel may need some work
Moving on from the 3-in-1 models, it’s about time to introduce a 4-in-1 air conditioner, the Friedrich ZoneAire PH14B. The added heater mode makes it usable throughout the year so that you get your money’s worth. Now cool down or heat larger spaces from the same source!
- Auto restart: automatically restarts the motor in the event...
- Easily portable: durable castor wheels and side handles make...
- 3 fan speeds: find your ideal temperature by selecting 1 of...
- Air Circulation- 250 cubic feet per minute. Moisture...
Why Did We Like It?
No surprises here as its heater mode is one of the first things that drew our attention. With a heat output of 10,700 BTU, the unit can seamlessly work for spaces up to 700 square feet. Sure, the Friedrich ZoneAire PH14B isn’t the cheapest AC out there, but its round the year utility makes it worth the tag.
Having said that, the brand has made no compromise with the unit’s primary cooling function. In addition to the 13,500 BTU output, the design employs a dual-hose system for fast and even cooling. Also, its self-evaporating feature uses the condensate to reduce coil temperature and evaporate quickly. Hence, the user is saved from the trouble of installing a separate drain line.
On that note, we should mention that installing this AC is also not a tricky job either, because its window bracket is fit for both horizontal and vertical windows.
Similar to the EdgeStar AP8000W, this model also has an auto-start feature that saves the current settings in case of a power failure. Once operation resumes, the setting remains the same unless changed.
What Could’ve Been Better?
Weighing at almost 100 pounds, moving around the unit can be challenging, despite having the assistance of four caster wheels and two side handles. Moreover, the design is rather bulky and will need a good amount of space. But for its size, the noise level is surprisingly low.
- Three fan speeds
- 24-hour smart timer
- Removes 5 pints of moisture per hour
- Remote controlled operation
- Heavy and bulky
The impressive performance of the Honeywell MO08CESWK made us want to try another model from the house. So, the MM14CCS occupies the seventh spot on the list. Designed to deliver optimum cooling for spaces up to 750 square feet, this unit is ideal for people who want something that’s easy to use and maintain.
- [POWERFUL, SAFE & DEPENDABLE] Cools rooms up to 550-700 sq....
- [EASY INSTALL & MAINTENANCE] Washable Filter designed to...
- [DESIGNED FOR COMFORT] With 3 fan speeds, digital controls...
- [3-IN-1 APPLIANCE] Powerful cooling in the summer,...
Why Did We Like It?
Although looks shouldn’t be the primary concern when choosing an AC, we couldn’t help falling for its elegant design. In fact, this model is one of the shortest in the 14,000 BTU category but is still powerful and efficient. Thanks to the automatic vertical wind motion, there’s a consistent supply of air for fast cooling.
We were delighted to finally find a thermal overload protection system that prevents overheating related damages. This is a safety feature that was missing in some premium-priced models.
Like the other units on the list, the MM14CCS also has a self-evaporating system for automatic drainage. If the humidity content is low, then you’re saved from the effort of emptying buckets at regular intervals. Moreover, the dehumidifier can absorb around 86 pints per 24hours for continuous maintenance-free operation.
Honeywell pays minute attention to air filtration, and this unit is no exception. Its dual filters prevent dust and debris from entering the machine, which by the way, can be cleaned just as easily.
Lastly, the model is also available in a heater variant, just in case you want some more flexibility.
What Could’ve Been Better?
Weighing at 74 pounds, it might not be very easy to carry around. Besides, it’s relatively larger size means that you might have to make up some space on the floor. However, if you ask us, these issues are far from being deal-breakers.
- Feather-touch LED control panel
- Triple fan speed
- Energy-saving timer
- Digital thermostat, ranging from 61-89 degree Fahrenheit
- Not very sleek
The Whynter ARC-122DHP is another one of our favorites for cooling smaller spaces up to 400 square feet. Sporting a familiar dual-hose design, this unit is one of the most popular choices in the 12,000 BTU category. And the built-in heater mode makes it usable throughout the year.
- AWARD WINNING : 1. Good Housekeeping's "Best Portable Air...
- Four operational modes: air conditioner, fan, heat or...
- Full thermostatic control (61°F - 89°F) with digital...
- Remote control, activated carbon air filter, washable...
Why Did We Like It?
For starters, we liked the 61-89 degree Fahrenheit range on offer by the digital thermostat. This gives the user more control over adjusting the cold as per preference. Plus, its dual-hose technology speeds up the process. Since the generated heat is vented out, you can expect better air intake and cooling efficiency than the single-hose designs.
Ably assisting the standard self-evaporating feature is the unit’s auto pump system, which can be activated to draw out excess moisture in more humid conditions. Once the tank is full, the operation shuts down and can be resumed only when the water is drained out. This way, you don’t have to keep a constant eye for maintenance.
Its 11,000 BTU heat output is slightly less than its cooling power, but effective nonetheless. Considering that the unit is primarily meant for air conditioning, the heating capacity isn’t bad either. And the caster wheels allow you to shift the unit as and when needed.
All in all, the easy installation process, coupled with powerful performance makes it a value for money deal, in our humble opinion!
What Could’ve Been Better?
For everything it does, the only notable missing feature was the presence of a smart auto-restart feature. Though the remote operation is comfortable, you still have to program the settings when the unit resumes after a power failure.
- Ozone friendly
- Fan and dehumidifier modes
- 24-hour timer setting
- Washable carbon filter for clean air circulation
- Doesn’t have smart auto-restart
For the ninth pick, we’d like to introduce the Aux Portable Follow Me Air Conditioner. Capable of delivering an enormous 14,000 BTU of cold air, it’s ultra-lightweight design includes all the standard features of any other high-end model. Moreover, it has a modest power consumption that adds little to your expenses.
- MULTI-PURPOSE – You don’t have unlimited space, so why...
- ULTRA LIGHTWEIGHT – You don’t need muscles like Arnold...
- NO CONSTRUCTION NECESSARY – The struggle is real!...
- CATERING TO COMFORT – Get what you want, when you want it....
Why Did We Like It?
The fact that Aux has been able to combine everything into such a compact and lightweight design is nothing short of impressive. Weighing at just 34 pounds, this unit is the most lightweight model on our list. But that’s not the only thing that deserves our praise.
The 14,000 BTU output is more than enough for working on areas up to 350 square feet. Additionally, the auto-swing flaps provide superior control over air direction from the comfort of the remote. It’s temperature range is no less either, allowing you to choose anywhere between 62 and 82-degree Fahrenheit. That’s some customization, we say!
Despite being lightweight already, the model is equipped with 360-degree caster wheels and comfortable gripping handles for enhanced portability. Moreover, the easy installation kit gives you the liberty of moving the AC from one room to another, if the need be.
Complete with a remote control and discharge hose for dehumidification mode, the Aux Portable Follow Me is a strong contender in the budget buy group.
What Could’ve Been Better?
While operating on the dehumidification mode, the unit can absorb only about 2.2 pints of moisture per hour, which doesn’t make it very effective for humid areas. Considering it’s price, we’d say that the absorption rate is okay, but can be a problem on the more humid days.
- 24-hour programmable timer
- Has 3 fan speeds
- Power-saving sleep mode
- Washable filters
- Low moisture absorption
The hOmeLabs 5,000 BTU Air Conditioner is a simple and effective unit that comes at an affordable price. This heavy duty window mounted model is suitable for smaller rooms, measuring up to 150 square feet in size. With a modest cooling time, there aren’t a lot of things that disappoint.
- COLD WINDOW AC for SMALL HOT ROOM - Heavy duty...
- WITH AIR CONDITIONER MOUNTING KIT - Electric window AC...
- SUPER FAST COOL TIME - Quiet mini compact air conditioner...
- REUSABLE ECO FILTER - Includes reusable washable...
Why Did We Like It?
We liked how the unit doesn’t make fancy promises and stays true to its purpose. The design might not be the most pleasing to look at, but is equipped with enough features that help it render optimum performance. While the 7 temperature settings offer a high degree of customization, its two-way air directional control ensures that the cold air reaches every corner of the room.
Furthermore, the anti-bacterial filters keep the debris and harmful germs from circulating in the air. Not only does this make the room safer to breathe in, but it also protects the accumulation of dirt particles on the motor. Simply use a vacuum or some warm water and dish soap to clean the filters at least once a month.
One thing to note is that the model doesn’t have a dedicated drainage outlet, since it uses water to cool down the back coils. Having said that, it does employ a safety mechanism that doesn’t allow the water from dripping on the floor or the motor.
Lastly, a rotating front-mounted knob allows the user to select the desired fan speed.
What Could’ve Been Better?
The fan can be operated on only two speeds, viz. high and low. In the absence of an intermediary speed, we needed some permutation-combination to strike a balance between the temperature and speed for comfortable cooling. Besides, the operation is pretty noisy.
- 15 minutes cool time
- Reusable slide-out filters
- Easy to install
- Low power startup
- Fan speed is not very flexible
If you’re a fan of split ACs and were missing one on the list, here we are talking about the Pioneer Mini Split Air Conditioner. Its 9,000 BTU cooling capacity is a fitting choice for small spaces without taking up much space. Also, it has an in-built heater mode for dual utility.
- Ultra high efficiency inverter+ ductless mini split heat...
- Cooling capacity: 9, 000 BTU/H with 17.0 SEER efficiency
- Heating capacity: 9, 500 BTU/H with 9.0 hspf efficiency
- Voltage: 110~120 VAC, 60 hertz (standard household power,...
Why Did We Like It?
To begin with, its ductless design calls for better efficiency while operating at the standard household current. The fairly wide temperature range on offer delivers ample cooling to suit varied preferences. Moreover, the automatic swing feature works just fine to ensure a uniform air distribution throughout, on the touch of a button on the remote.
Like all other split ACs, this one also comes with an outdoor heat pump section to vent out the warm air sucked from inside the room. The galvanized metal build and electrostatic epoxy paint account for its durability and low noise output.
A good thing about this AC is that it’s available in multiple BTUs and the corresponding operating voltage to suit the varied needs of customers.
Finished off with a complete 16-inch installation kit, this is a sturdy and compact unit that can be mounted high on the wall. And thanks to its white body, the design blends in with most light and dark-colored walls.
What Could’ve Been Better?
In case you’re wondering as to why we didn’t mention its heating mode in the above section, then that’s because it serves very little purpose. Unlike some other cold/hot ACs, we weren’t able to use this as a primary heater. It’s unfortunate that this incompetent feature contributes to its pricing.
- Dehumidifies and circulates air
- Suitable for single-zone area
- Multi-speed fan
- Fixed washable filters
- Low heating capacity
The second-last product for the day is the simple but powerful Frigidaire FFRA0511U1 window mounted AC. Its compact design and moderate output are suitable for seamlessly covering up to 150 square feet. The very traditional look has a reasonably quiet operation that won’t hammer your ears during continuous use.
- Window-Mounted Room Air Conditioner
- Filter Type: Anti-Bacterial Mesh
Why Did We Like It?
We wanted to try some other window mounted units like the hOmeLabs 5000 BTU AC when we came across this, and frankly, the performance was pretty satisfactory. Besides, its in-built thermostat provides for maximum temperature control.
Our experience with the hOmeLabs model came in handy as we were now able to adjust the fan speed as per the cooling requirements. Also, we were particularly impressed with how quickly the fan functions to increase or decrease the flow of cold air. In hindsight, its efficiency compensated for the low number of speed settings.
Again, the basic analog design doesn’t garner a lot of praise, but that’s only till you hear the operational noise. In fact, we were surprised to see that the traditional design produces less sound than some of the more advanced models on the market.
All in all, the Frigidaire FFRA0511U1 is one of those units that emphasizes productivity more than anything else. If looks and remote control are not your priority, then you may consider this model for your needs.
What Could’ve Been Better?
This wall mounted AC is an expensive buy. Although it does its job with sincerity, the price may be a constraint, considering that cheaper models in the 5,000 BTU category are equipped with a lot more features.
- Anti-bacterial filter
- Compact design
- Quiet operation
- Lightweight
- Relatively expensive
For the top position, we have picked the Honeywell MO08CESWK 3-in-1 portable air-conditioner. This powerful unit has the right blend of performance and portability with minimal maintenance needs. It is one of the most cost-effective models in our list with a set of easy but efficient controls.
- Enjoy Powerful air flow in a Compact Air Conditioning Unit.
- Cools rooms up to 250 square feet Auto-evaporation, quiet...
- Washable filter and filter change alert for easy...
- Built in dehumidifier removes up to 44 pints/24 hours with...
Why Did We Like It?
First off, we were impressed with its compact design that has a cooling capacity of 8,000 BTU, making it competent for smaller spaces. Apart from serving as an air-conditioner, the unit can also be used as a dehumidifier or fan on the press of a button.
Thanks to its remote control operation, you can adjust the temperature and switch to the desired mode from the comfort of a bed or couch.
Moreover, it is equipped with a dehumidifier that can remove up to 44 pints of moisture in 24 hours for continuous drainage. In addition, a distinct auto-evaporate feature means that the user is relieved from the hassle of emptying the bucket every 4 or 5 hours. The dual drainage makes it a fitting choice for humid areas.
The presence of a dual filtration system prevents dust and hair from entering the unit, thereby ensuring a longer service life. Also, the filters are easily washable, so that you don’t need frequent replacements. That’s some cost-cutting right there!
Overall, the unit stays true to its purpose without employing a lot of fancy features, which also accounts for its moderate price. With a temperature range of 61-89 degrees Fahrenheit, fall back on the Honeywell MO08CESWK for creating a relaxed and comfortable environment.
What Could’ve Been Better?
The operation may not be the quietest but it is not too loud either. And honestly, for all the work that it does, we were happy to bear with the noise. Also, areas with high moisture content may demand a hose for better drainage, which can cost a few extra bucks.
- Includes window installation kit for easy fitting
- Filter clean alert
- Smart digital thermostat system
- Lightweight design equipped with wheels
- Slightly noisy
Smallest AC and Micro AC Buyers’ Guide
We know that the various advantages of the small ACs are tempting you to purchase one even before you finish reading this review guide. But bear with us a little longer, as we quickly walk you through some of the most crucial factors to keep in mind before spending those hard-earned bucks.
BTU Count
The most critical aspect of choosing a small AC is to take note of its BTU or cooling capacity. For small to average-sized rooms, you may opt for a unit that falls in the range of 6,000 to 12,000 BTU. However, for slightly bigger spaces, we’d recommend going for a 14,000 BTU model.
Another thing to consider is that if your preferred brand and model offers a heating mode on the AC, make sure that the heating capacity serves some purpose to justify the price.
Mounted vs. Portable
As you may have figured out from the list, small ACs are available in both mounted and portable designs. If you need to cool multiple rooms on a budget, then we’d recommend a portable unit. Here again, make sure it’s sufficiently equipped with wheels and handles to support maneuverability, especially for heavy weight designs.
On the other hand, you can go for a split or window mounted AC to serve for cooling a single room. Whatever the choice, it’s better to invest in a model that’s easy to install and comes with related fitting gears.
Dehumidification
If you encounter high humidity on a daily basis, then it is vital to consider the dehumidification feature.Though most such units reduce the need for constant manual drainage, areas with more moisture content may require frequent drainage.
Special Features
It’s a good practice to look out for some additional helpful features, like the intelligent auto-restart feature, for example, which improves utility and reduces user-effort. Accordingly, in the case of filters, we’d suggest something like an anti-bacterial protection to ensure cleaner air circulation.
Verdict
The idea is enticing, but the options are many!
At least this is what we felt while shortlisting the best units on the market. And that’s when we decided to test each one for having a first-hand experience that would enable us to write a truly informative guide.
Although almost all of the models stand the test of power and efficiency, we thought of naming our favorites from the list, so here it goes:
The Honeywell MO08CESWK is one of the most efficient 3-in-1 models, while the Aux Portable Follow Me Air Conditioner is a very lightweight and portable model. On the other hand, both the Friedrich ZoneAire PH14B and Whynter ARC-122DHP have a heater mode for enhanced round the year usability.
With this, we’ve come to the end of yet another top 13 list. We hope our effort helps you make the right choice, and you had as much fun reading this as we had compiling it.
Do let us know about your top picks in the comments below. Till we meet again!
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