5 Best Portable Air Conditioners for Apartments [In 2025]

Staying cool and comfortable in your apartment during the hot summer months can be a challenge, but with the right portable air conditioner, you can create a refreshing oasis. We’ve reviewed five top-rated portable AC units to help you find the best one for your space.

5 Best Portable Air Conditioners for Apartments Review

Midea MAP05S1AWT-A Air Conditioner

Overview

The Midea MAP05S1AWT-A is a smart, 3-in-1 portable air conditioner that offers cooling, dehumidification, and fan functions. With an 8,500 BTU capacity, it’s designed to effectively cool spaces up to 150 square feet.

Specs

• Cooling capacity: 8,500 BTU (5,000 BTU SACC)
• Coverage area: Up to 150 sq. ft.
• Noise level: 49-52 dB
• Modes: Cooling, dehumidification, fan
• Temperature range: 62°F-90°F
• Remote control and 24-hour timer
• Washable air filter

Pros

• Efficient cooling for small to medium-sized spaces
• Quiet operation
• Easy setup and installation
• Convenient remote control and smart features
• Washable air filter for improved air quality

Cons

• May not be powerful enough for larger apartments
• No built-in drainage, may require manual emptying of water tank

Customer Reviews

Customers are generally very satisfied with the Midea MAP05S1AWT-A, praising its effective cooling, quiet operation, and easy installation. Many appreciate the smart features and remote control functionality.

Tripp Lite SRCOOL12K Spot Cooler

Overview

The Tripp Lite SRCOOL12K is a powerful, self-contained portable air conditioner designed for server rooms, network closets, and other IT environments. With a 12,000 BTU capacity, it can effectively cool spaces up to 300 square feet.

Specs

• Cooling capacity: 12,000 BTU
• Coverage area: Up to 300 sq. ft.
• Noise level: 51-56 dB
• Modes: Cooling, dehumidification, air filtration
• Temperature range: Adjustable
• Built-in casters and exhaust duct
• Automatic restart after power failures

Pros

• Powerful cooling for larger spaces
• Designed for IT and server environments
• Self-contained design, no drainage required
• Durable construction and built-in casters
• Automatic restart after power outages

Cons

• Relatively high noise level compared to other portable ACs
• Lack of built-in network monitoring capabilities (requires separate accessory)
• Higher price point compared to consumer-focused portable ACs

Customer Reviews

Customers who have installed the Tripp Lite SRCOOL12K in their server rooms or IT closets report excellent cooling performance and appreciate the self-contained design. However, some find the noise level to be a drawback.

10,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner

Overview

This 10,000 BTU portable air conditioner from AIDIAM is a versatile 3-in-1 unit that can cool, dehumidify, and provide fan-only airflow. It’s designed to effectively cool spaces up to 450 square feet.

Specs

• Cooling capacity: 10,000 BTU
• Coverage area: Up to 450 sq. ft.
• Noise level: 52-56 dB
• Modes: Cooling, dehumidification, fan
• Temperature range: 61°F-90°F
• Remote control and 24-hour timer
• Casters for easy mobility

Pros

• Powerful cooling for medium to large spaces
• Versatile 3-in-1 functionality
• Convenient remote control and timer
• Mobility thanks to built-in casters
• Relatively affordable price point

Cons

• Slightly higher noise level compared to smaller portable ACs
• May not be as energy-efficient as more advanced models

Customer Reviews

Customers are generally pleased with the cooling performance and versatility of this 10,000 BTU portable air conditioner. Many appreciate the value it offers for the price, though some note the noise level as a minor drawback.

8,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner

Overview

This 8,000 BTU portable air conditioner from Feelfunn is a compact and affordable option for cooling spaces up to 350 square feet. It offers 3-in-1 functionality with cooling, dehumidification, and fan modes.

Specs

• Cooling capacity: 8,000 BTU
• Coverage area: Up to 350 sq. ft.
• Noise level: 49-52 dB
• Modes: Cooling, dehumidification, fan
• Temperature range: 61°F-90°F
• Remote control and 24-hour timer
• Casters for easy mobility

Pros

• Affordable price point
• Compact and portable design
• Quiet operation
• Effective cooling for small to medium-sized spaces
• Versatile 3-in-1 functionality

Cons

• May not be powerful enough for larger apartments
• Flimsy exhaust hose connector

Customer Reviews

Customers praise the Feelfunn 8,000 BTU portable air conditioner for its quiet operation, easy installation, and effective cooling in smaller spaces. Some note the exhaust hose connector as a minor drawback.

Shinco 12,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner

Overview

The Shinco 12,000 BTU portable air conditioner is a powerful and feature-rich option designed to cool spaces up to 400 square feet. It offers cooling, dehumidification, and fan modes, along with a host of convenient features.

Specs

• Cooling capacity: 12,000 BTU
• Coverage area: Up to 400 sq. ft.
• Noise level: 52-56 dB
• Modes: Cooling, dehumidification, fan
• Temperature range: 60°F-86°F
• Remote control and 24-hour timer
• Washable air filter
• Casters for easy mobility

Pros

• Powerful cooling for larger spaces
• Versatile 3-in-1 functionality
• Convenient remote control and timer
• Washable air filter for improved air quality
• Casters for easy portability

Cons

• Slightly higher noise level compared to smaller models
• Drainage may be required, depending on usage

Customer Reviews

Customers who have purchased the Shinco 12,000 BTU portable air conditioner generally report excellent cooling performance, especially in larger spaces. Some note the noise level as a minor drawback, but overall, it’s a well-received and versatile unit.

Buying Guide: Choosing the Best Portable Air Conditioner for Your Apartment

Cooling Capacity

• Consider the size of the room or area you need to cool and choose a portable AC with a suitable BTU rating. Generally, 8,000-12,000 BTU is suitable for most apartment-sized spaces.

Functionality

• Look for portable ACs with 3-in-1 functionality, offering cooling, dehumidification, and fan modes to provide maximum versatility.

Convenience Features

• Prioritize features like remote control, timer, and casters for easy operation and mobility.

Noise Level

• Check the decibel (dB) rating and opt for a model with a noise level that won’t be disruptive in your living space.

Energy Efficiency

• Consider the energy efficiency of the portable AC, as this can impact your utility bills, especially if running the unit frequently.

FAQs

Do I need to vent a portable air conditioner?

Yes, portable air conditioners require venting to the outside to expel the hot air generated during the cooling process. Most models come with a window kit or hose that can be used to vent the unit.

How much electricity does a portable air conditioner use?

The electricity usage of a portable air conditioner can vary depending on the unit’s BTU capacity, energy efficiency, and how often it’s used. On average, a 10,000 BTU portable AC can use around 900-1,200 watts of power when running.

Can a portable air conditioner be used in a room without windows?

No, portable air conditioners require a window or other external vent to expel the hot air. Using a portable AC in a room without any ventilation options is not recommended, as it can cause the unit to overheat and potentially malfunction.

Conclusion

When it comes to keeping your apartment cool and comfortable, a reliable portable air conditioner can make all the difference. From the efficient Midea MAP05S1AWT-A to the powerful Shinco 12,000 BTU model, the options reviewed in this guide offer a range of cooling capacities, features, and price points to suit various apartment sizes and needs. By considering factors like cooling power, functionality, and convenience, you can find the best portable AC to beat the heat and create a refreshing oasis in your home.