Now that summer is in full swing and heat waves are becoming more common, cooling your home properly and efficiently becomes increasingly important. The best window air conditioners can provide much-needed relief from rising temps, but it’s worth paying attention to features like energy efficiency, ease of installation and the right BTU rating for your space to ensure the unit performs as well as possible. After sifting through window AC units from top brands, the LG Medium Dual Inverter Smart emerged as our pick for the best window air conditioner of 2026 overall. It’s an intuitive model that uses dual-inverter technology to run more efficiently and quietly. If you only need to cool a small space like a bedroom or office, we recommend the TCL 5,000 BTU Window Air Conditioner for its lightweight, compact design, easy installation and targeted airflow.
Why We Named It Best Window Air Conditioner Overall
LG’s Smart Window Air Conditioner checks all the boxes: It’s powerful, efficient, quiet and easy to operate. The key to its efficiency is the dual-inverter compressor, which, unlike traditional compressors, adjusts its output based on cooling demands. This minimizes the waste of energy that comes with having to turn your AC on and off constantly—and prevents your electricity bill from skyrocketing. Dual-inverter units also tend to vibrate less than single-inverter units, helping this window AC operate quietly; several reviewers back LG’s claim that this model doesn’t get louder than a quiet library, especially in Sleep mode.
Another Smart Addition To LG’s Ecosystem
In addition to this window AC unit’s intuitive control panel, it also comes with an LCD remote, or you can control it remotely using the LG ThinQ app or via voice commands through Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. You can also monitor energy usage and set schedules through the app. Plus, it’s worth noting that our home team backs many of LG’s other smart appliances that connect to the brand’s ThinQ app, from its portable air conditioners to its stackable washer and dryer sets.
Best Installed With Another Person
One downside to keep in mind: This unit weighs a hefty 63 pounds, which may make it difficult to install, especially alone. The installation kit does come with helpful accessories, including foam panels with adhesive backs to fill any cracks in the window. If you opt for this LG window air conditioner, make sure to size appropriately: The smallest version offers 8,000 BTUs to cover 350 square feet, while the extra-large 23,500-BTU unit can handle 1,450 square feet.
Why We Named It Best User-Friendly Window Air Conditioner
Windmill’s Whispertech AC looks more like a sleek home speaker than a utilitarian appliance, thanks to its clean lines, curved edges and subtle auto-dimming LED display. But its user-friendliness—particularly its ease of installation—is what makes the unit stand out most.
A Breezy Installation
Sales, the co-author of this story, recently swapped out her five-year-old manual Frigidaire AC for a 6,000-BTU Windmill, which came with a pre-assembled installation kit. That means the AC itself already had the top and bottom bars, front frame, side adapters and side panels attached. The kit, along with the clear, illustrated instructions, allowed her to install it in under 10 minutes. The trickiest part of the setup process was carrying the 61-pound package up four flights of stairs.
Designed For Convenience
This appliance’s convenience extends beyond its easy installation and chicly understated aesthetic. Sales finds it much easier to use than previous manual window air conditioners she’s owned, mainly thanks to its remote control, built-in thermostat, app control and Wi-Fi connectivity. (It’s also compatible with smart home technology.) Sales, who lives in humid New York City, particularly appreciates being able to turn the machine on from the subway so that her room is cool by the time she gets home.
Quiet And Cost-Efficient, With Thoughtful Details
The Windmill is also designed to cool more efficiently than traditional rotary-compressor ACs. In addition to its Energy Star certification, high CEER rating and Eco mode, this model uses an inverter compressor that automatically adjusts output based on your room’s precise cooling needs. (This also helps it operate more quietly.) The unit’s airflow disperses at a 45-degree angle, further improving efficiency while preventing air from blowing directly into your face. The air passes through a washable mesh filter, but the unit can also accommodate an optional activated carbon filter if you want extra peace of mind that the air you’re breathing is fresh and filtered.
Why We Named It Best Window Air Conditioner For Small Spaces
You might recognize TCL for its televisions, but the brand also has a successful AC product line. Take this 5,000-BTU model that is manually operated and cools rooms of up to 150 square feet. For small-room dwellers who don’t want the extras of a smart AC, this unit has everything needed to cool your space effectively—and do it well, even in spaces like garages that get especially hot in the summer, according to several reviewers.
An Apartment Dweller’s Ideal AC
Those who live in small apartments, especially ones up several flights of stairs, will also appreciate that this unit is truly compact at under 13 inches tall and 36 pounds—almost half the weight of some of our other top picks. Its petite size makes it a great fit for smaller bedrooms, studies and home offices, too.
Users also appreciate how easy the TCL is to install: Its lighter weight makes it manageable for one person to handle during window placement, and the guided instructions are simple enough for non-techies to understand. (One caveat, though, is that this AC isn’t compatible with horizontal-sliding windows. And if you have a window frame that’s significantly wider than the listed width of the AC, you may need additional sealing foam.)
Two Unique, Helpful Features
While the TCL’s cooling power is limited to smaller spaces, it comes with several helpful features that some more powerful units lack. In addition to the intuitive dials on its front panel—which let you choose from seven cooling settings and two fan speeds—you can further customize airflow with its four-way steerable cooling vents. It also has a washable, reusable filter, which is helpful for extending the life of the AC; instead of buying a new disposable filter every month or two, you can simply slide the filter out and wash it.
Editor’s Note: The previous version of Midea’s U-Shaped Inverter Window Air Conditioner, our former pick for Best Overall, was recalled on June 5, 2025 due to drainage issues and the risk of mold exposure (see the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission’s official recall notice). Midea has since released a new version of the unit that includes a drain hole and black plugs, which allow the appliance to drain properly while still using the same technology and design that make it one of the most efficient window ACs on the market.
Why We Named It Best Energy-Efficient Window Air Conditioner
Hands down, the Midea U-Shaped Inverter Window Air Conditioner is one of the best units on the market when it comes to balancing efficient performance and modern design. A distinct U-shaped design features a special bracket that lets you close (and open) the window while the unit is installed. In addition to allowing you to enjoy the breeze on cooler days, this unique setup also helps the machine run quietly—down to 36 decibels—while in operation, as the compressor noise is confined to the other side of the glass. This unit is also Wi-Fi equipped, which is a bonus for those who want to remotely control the AC or use voice commands.
One Of The Most Efficient And Quietest Units On The Market
This unit’s crowning glory is its energy efficiency. Similar to the LG and Windmill models on our list, this updated Midea uses inverter technology, which helps rapidly and quietly cool rooms of up to 450 square feet. Beyond that, it also garnered a 2025 Energy Star Most Efficient certification. For reference, only ACs with a CEER rating of 13.5 and above typically qualify for Energy Star’s Most Efficient designation, and Midea’s is 16.0—the highest efficiency score a window AC can get in its category.
One recurring complaint with older versions of the Midea was improper drainage, which led to mold growth and prompted some users to DIY their own solutions. In response, Midea recalled affected models in 2025 and released updated versions with redesigned drainage components, including a new drain hole and drain plugs.
Why We Named It Best Window Air Conditioner For Large Spaces
This window air conditioner from Whirlpool is a no-nonsense workhorse with simple features. Still, its power makes it a worthwhile pick among users who need to cool extra-large spaces of up to 1,500 square feet—like pool houses and whole floors of a home—and, in some cases, even larger ones. The Whirlpool installs relatively easily for a unit of its size, has a clear digital readout and a timer, and comes with a remote that lets you adjust multiple speeds and modes. Maintenance is also straightforward, and it comes with a removable, washable filter.
Powerful And Efficient At Every Setting
User feedback for this window AC is also compelling. Several reviewers report that they don’t need to exceed its medium setting to feel significant cooling of their extra-large space. While it doesn’t list a CEER rating, this unit is Energy Star certified, and many users note that their energy bills haven’t increased despite the noticeably high cooling power of this unit. Others highlight that its energy-saving Eco mode contributes to cost savings, too.
Two Considerations Before You Buy
While this unit gets the job done—and well—in extra-large spaces, note that it doesn’t have many extra capabilities, like Wi-Fi connectivity, if those are something you’re also after. Another thing to keep in mind: Because this unit is so powerful, it can’t be plugged into a standard electrical outlet and instead requires a 230-volt outlet.
How We Chose The Best Window Air Conditioners
To determine the best window air conditioners of 2026, we consulted with an HVAC expert and identified the top-rated, best-reviewed models from trusted home appliance and home-cooling brands, including LG, Midea and Whirlpool.
- To analyze the quality of each window unit, we first considered its BTU (British Thermal Unit) rating. The most important consideration when shopping for window ACs is making sure the size of your space aligns with this figure. “Don’t over- or under-size your AC. Too small, and the unit will struggle too much; too big, and it won’t dehumidify properly,” explains Alex Atkinson, a plumbing and HVAC expert.
- We prioritized energy efficiency, considering factors like Energy Star certification and CEER (Combined Energy Efficiency Ratio) ratings where available. A CEER rating of 12.0 or higher is generally considered excellent. “The better the CEER rating, the less you will pay for electricity in the long term, even though the upfront cost [for an efficient window AC] may be a little more,” Atkinson says.
- We accounted for other crucial features experts advise shoppers to keep in mind when shopping for a window AC, including dimensions, ease of installation and operation, noise level and added elements like auto-shutoff and Wi-Fi connectivity.
- We scanned customer reviews to get a better sense of how these units perform in the real world. Specifically, we focused on models with an average of 4-star ratings and above, making special note of recurring pain points among users.
What To Look For In A Window Air Conditioner
Whether you’re shopping for a window AC unit that will combat a brutal heat wave or one that will provide year-round comfort, keep these factors in mind:
BTUs And Coverage Area
Window air conditioners come in a variety of sizes, from small-room models with as low as 5,000 BTUs to monster coolers with 18,000 BTUs or more. According to HVAC technician Alex Atkinson, the most important consideration when shopping for a window AC is ensuring it’s properly sized for your space—in other words, it has the appropriate BTU rating.
“As a general rule, the larger the room, the higher the BTU rating you’ll need. For example, a 150-square-foot room might need just 5,000 BTUs, but a 500-square-foot room might need 10,000 or more,” he explains. While window ACs with higher BTUs cost more upfront, you minimize the risk of your unit overworking (and thus using more energy) because it’s properly sized. Another aspect that’s easy to overlook is your home’s electrical configuration: “Some of the larger-BTU units need a dedicated circuit or direct 220V outlet, which some older homes lack,” Atkinson says.
Energy Efficiency
ACs that are Energy Star certified are typically less expensive to operate, because they tend to have a higher CEER (Combined Energy Efficiency Rating) than non-certified devices—and are approximately 10% more efficient than the U.S. Department of Energy’s minimum standards. That’s why looking at the CEER of a window AC gives you a more accurate view of its energy efficiency. Atkinson says, “It’s a helpful rating that provides a sense of how effectively the unit uses electricity with standby mode included, which more units are incorporating these days. The better the CEER rating, the less you will pay for electricity in the long term, so although the upfront cost may be a little more, you may save on your energy bill.”
CEER numbers range from 9 to 16. (You’ll also sometimes see EER numbers, which differ from CEER in that they don’t account for energy usage when an appliance is on standby mode or turned off.) Most window units display this information on the label or product page.
Installation
Window air conditioners also vary in how easy they are to install. “Models with a slide-out chassis or mounting brackets are much easier to handle than the heavier, more primitive box types,” says Atkinson. Installing your window AC properly also factors into its performance and longevity, he adds. One of his tips is to install your AC tilted slightly toward the outside so that condensation drains properly.
While it seems like a no-brainer, it’s worth emphasizing the importance of properly sealing your unit with the weather stripping included in the kit to prevent cool air from escaping and hot air from seeping in (which might spike up your energy bills). Atkinson adds, “If possible, install the AC in a shaded area of your home. Direct sunlight causes units to work harder.”
Noise Levels
While all window air conditioning units make some amount of noise, some are louder than others. If you’re bothered by excess noise, look for models on the lower end of the decibel spectrum—around 40 or so decibels, which is what you can expect at your local library. “Many newer models advertise low decibel ratings, which will make an enormous difference if you’re installing it in an office or bedroom,” says Atkinson. Window ACs that use inverter compressors tend to run more quietly (because they’re more efficient) than those that use the more traditional rotary compressors.
Maintenance And Added Features
Spending a little more on a window AC with eco-saving features, as well as being diligent with maintenance, will also help your unit last longer (and save you more money) in the long term, Atkinson explains. “Note smart features like Wi-Fi connectivity, programmable timers and energy-saver modes, all of which can add to your comfort and reduce your utility bills down the line,” he says. He also advises replacing or cleaning your AC’s filter monthly, especially if you’ve used it heavily, as well as cleaning it and storing it properly in the off-season.
Why Trust Forbes Vetted
The Forbes Vetted home team has published dozens of heating and cooling stories based on our editorial expertise, extensive research and firsthand testing, ranging from portable air conditioners to window fans.
- Main author Fran Sales is the home commerce writer for Forbes Vetted. She has been researching, testing and reporting on various home and kitchen products for over six years. Her latest coverage includes guides to the top tower fans, robot vacuums for pet hair and air purifiers.
- Co-author Christine Colby is a former commerce editor who tested and reviewed home, kitchen and sleep products for five years. She also covered a variety of home topics, from the best cooling blankets to the best stackable washer and dryer sets.
- Each pick on this list has been vetted by deputy editor Rebekah Lowin, a seasoned home and kitchen reporter who currently oversees several lifestyle verticals for Forbes Vetted.
- We regularly refresh this story to ensure we continue to stand by our picks’ performance, energy efficiency and value. It was last updated by home and mattress commerce writer Kathleen Knowles in June 2026 and reviewed by our senior home and kitchen editor, Amy Moran.
Our Expert
- Alex Atkinson, licensed plumbing and HVAC expert and technician at Super Brothers, a company based in Citrus Heights, California