Choosing the best window air conditioner is never a one size fits all comparison.
There will always be too many variables that change from scenario-to-scenario that will make it all but impossible to pick just one.
One person may be on a budget and need a low-cost unit, while another may want a quiet unit.
So let us take a look at some popular Window A/C units to see if one fits your scenario.
As always, be sure to read the reviews on Amazon, forums, here, or elsewhere to be sure a unit is a good fit for you.
Types of Window Air Conditioners
There are new types of window AC units available, mainly in design and layout.
The new units can be saddle-shaped or “U†shaped, which makes for a better window fit and make them quieter to operate.
There are also smart units that have WiFi built-in and can connect to other smart devices such as Alexa or Google smart home.
Controlling a unit from a smartphone with an app can also be done with some models.
Our Picks for Best Window Air Conditioners
- Soleus Air Exclusive
- Frigidaire 5,000 BTU
- Haier Serenity Series
- Keystone KSTSW08B 8,000 BTU
The Soleus Air Exclusive is a unit shaped like a saddle.
This puts all the noisy components on the outside of the window, which greatly reduces the noise.
It also has WiFi and can be controlled with a smartphone app or Alexa.
If you are on a budget and need a small, low-cost unit, then the Frigidaire FFRA051WAE may be for you.
The first is small, 15.25 x 16 x 12 inches making it a good fit for almost any window.
Next, it is a low-cost unit that works very well for the price.
The Haier company has offered the Serenity Series of air conditioners for those who want the quietest unit possible.
All window units will make some noise, but Haier has added many features to the Serenity Series to help with this.
For example, they wrap the noisiest component of the compressor in a noise suppressant material along with a better design of the fans.
If you want a quiet unit, read the reviews on current quiet or U-shaped window units.
Keep in mind, Serenity models are usually discontinued.
Some windows have panes that slide side-to-side, or the window is tall and narrow.
For these types of windows, casement window air conditioners are made to fit.
These units are tall and narrow, allowing them to fit in many windows that otherwise would be impossible with a standard unit.
Summary
Finding the best window air conditioner that fits your setup may take a bit of reading and research, but with the many available, there is no doubt one to fit any environment.
Keep in mind, many new window units now use R-32 refrigerant instead of R-410A.
Be sure to measure the window it will go into along with examining the wall outlet it will plug into.