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10 Best Cheap Window Ac Unit 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

9.9 score

Midea 6,000 BTU Window Air Conditioner, 3-in-1 Cool/Fan/Dehumidifier Window AC Unit, Easycool Air Conditioner with Remote Control, Cools up to 250 Sq. Ft., Fits bedroom, study, office (2024 Upgrade)

The Midea 6,000 BTU Window Air Conditioner is a solid choice if you're looking for an affordable unit to cool small rooms up to 250 square feet, such as bedrooms or offices. Its 6,000 BTU cooling capacity is enough to quickly cool modest spaces, making it good for personal use rather than large or open areas. The unit offers three modes—cooling, fan, and dehumidifier—which adds flexibility to help maintain comfort in different conditions.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,110
Cooling Capacity (BTUs)
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Noise Level

Most important from
15976 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTUs)
It cools small spaces efficiently and quickly, delivering cold air almost immediately after starting.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Energy efficiency is impressive for its class, running at about half the power consumption compared to similar inverter models.
Noise Level
The unit runs so quietly that it’s barely noticeable even when the compressor kicks on, making it ideal for bedrooms or offices.
Size and Installation
Installation requires care as the unit can trip GFI outlets on startup, making dedicated circuits preferable for reliable operation.
Additional Features
Firmware updates have improved winter operation by enabling a defrost cycle, allowing the unit to function below 40 degrees Fahrenheit where it previously would shut down.
#2
9.8 score

Midea 8,000 BTU Smart Inverter Air Conditioner Window Unit with Heat and Dehumidifier – Cools up to 350 Sq. Ft., Energy Star Rated, Quiet Operation, Electronic Controls, Remote Control, White

The Midea 8,000 BTU Smart Inverter Window Air Conditioner is a strong choice if you need to cool or heat a room up to about 350 square feet without spending too much. Its cooling capacity is solid for medium-sized rooms, and the unit includes a heat pump function, which is useful for keeping warm in milder cold weather (above 41°F). This makes it more versatile than many basic window ACs. It’s Energy Star rated and uses inverter technology, which means it’s designed to save on electricity—up to 35% compared to standard models—helping lower your energy bills.

Rating
9.8
Cooling Capacity (BTUs)
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Noise Level

Most important from
389 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTUs)
The heat pump function is impressively efficient, maintaining steady temperatures with low energy consumption around 400 watts.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
The heat pump function is impressively efficient, maintaining steady temperatures with low energy consumption around 400 watts.
Noise Level
The unit operates with exceptional quietness, barely noticeable even on the highest fan speed or turbo mode.
Size and Installation
Installation is straightforward and fits smaller windows down to about 17 inches, making it versatile for tight spaces.
Additional Features
A firmware update enabled a defrost cycle, allowing the heater to work effectively even below 41°F, overcoming the initial temperature limitation.
#3
9.7 score

Midea MAW08V1QWT U-Shaped AC Window Air Conditioner

The Midea MAW08V1QWT is a smart choice if you’re looking for an affordable window AC unit that covers the basics well. It cools rooms up to about 350 square feet with 8,000 BTUs, which is suitable for small to medium spaces like bedrooms or small living rooms. One of its biggest perks is energy efficiency: it uses advanced inverter technology and holds an ENERGY STAR certification, helping you save over 35% on power compared to traditional units. Noise won’t be an issue either, as it runs very quietly at just 32 decibels, making it great for light sleepers or home offices.

Rating
9.7
Cooling Capacity (BTUs)
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
Noise Level

Most important from
357 reviews

Cooling Capacity (BTUs)
This AC unit cools rooms effectively even in extreme heat, proving its reliability and efficiency in real-world hot conditions.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)
The inverter technology delivers energy-efficient, quiet cooling that eliminates the typical loud on/off cycling, making it ideal for bedrooms or home offices.
Noise Level
The inverter technology delivers energy-efficient, quiet cooling that eliminates the typical loud on/off cycling, making it ideal for bedrooms or home offices.
Size and Installation
Ensuring the unit is properly pitched downward is critical for correct water drainage and preventing trapped moisture inside the case.
Additional Features
The updated 2025 model features improved drain valves and multiple drain holes that effectively prevent water buildup, solving previous mold concerns.

Top 10 Best Cheap Window Ac Unit 2025 in the United States

Midea MAW08V1QWT U-Shaped AC Window Air Conditioner

Cooling Capacity (BTUs): 8,000 British Thermal Units
Noise Level: 32 dB
Size and Installation: 19.17x21.97x13.46 in; Window install
Additional Features: Remote, Dust Filter, Dehumidifier, Wi-Fi

Hisense WCT08W25A Window Air Conditioner, 8,000 BTU, White

Cooling Capacity (BTUs): 8,000 BTU
Noise Level: 41 dB
Size and Installation: 18.9x18.5x13.2 in, Window Kit
Additional Features: Inverter, Silent, Fast Cooling, App
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Buying Guide for the Best Cheap Window Ac Unit

When choosing a window air conditioning unit, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs. A window AC unit can be a great way to cool a room without the expense and hassle of installing central air conditioning. By understanding the key specs, you can make an informed decision that balances cooling power, energy efficiency, and noise levels with your specific requirements.
Cooling Capacity (BTUs)Cooling capacity, measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs), indicates how much heat the unit can remove from a room per hour. This is crucial because it determines how effectively the unit can cool your space. Units with lower BTUs (5,000-8,000) are suitable for small rooms up to 350 square feet, while medium-sized rooms (350-550 square feet) may require 8,000-12,000 BTUs. Larger rooms (550-1,000 square feet) will need units with 12,000-18,000 BTUs. To pick the right one, match the BTU rating to the size of the room you want to cool. If the unit is too powerful, it will cycle on and off too frequently, leading to inefficiency and higher energy costs. If it's too weak, it won't cool the room effectively.
Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER)The Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) measures how efficiently the air conditioner uses energy to cool a room. A higher EER means better energy efficiency, which can lead to lower electricity bills. EER values typically range from 8 to 12. For a more energy-efficient unit, look for an EER of 10 or higher. If you plan to use the AC unit frequently, investing in a higher EER can save you money in the long run. Consider your usage patterns and energy costs when choosing the EER rating.
Noise LevelNoise level is an important factor, especially if the unit will be installed in a bedroom or living area where quiet is essential. Noise levels are measured in decibels (dB). Units with noise levels below 50 dB are considered quiet, while those above 60 dB can be quite loud. If you are sensitive to noise or plan to use the unit in a quiet environment, look for models with lower dB ratings. For less critical areas, a higher noise level might be acceptable.
Size and InstallationThe physical size of the unit and the ease of installation are also important considerations. Ensure that the unit will fit in your window and that you have the necessary tools and skills for installation. Some units are designed for easy installation with minimal tools, while others may require more effort. Measure your window dimensions and compare them with the unit's specifications to ensure a proper fit. If you are not comfortable with DIY installation, consider hiring a professional.
Additional FeaturesAdditional features can enhance the functionality and convenience of your window AC unit. Common features include remote controls, programmable timers, sleep modes, and energy-saving settings. These features can make the unit more user-friendly and efficient. Think about which features are important to you and how they will impact your daily use. For example, a programmable timer can help you save energy by allowing the unit to turn on and off at specific times, while a remote control adds convenience.

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