If you live in a small apartment, dorm room, or studio, you know how unbearable summers can get without proper cooling. Window AC units aren’t always allowed in rentals, and central air is often not an option. That’s where portable air conditioners come in.
These units are compact, movable, and easy to install—usually requiring just a standard electrical outlet and a small window for venting. With features like dehumidifiers, multiple fan speeds, smart connectivity, and energy-saving timers, portable ACs are designed to maximize comfort in small living spaces without the hassle of permanent installation.
In this buying guide, we’ll review the 15 best portable air conditioners for small apartments. Each review includes detailed descriptions, features, pros, and cons, so you can pick the right model for your space and budget.
Best Portable Air Conditioners for Small Apartments
BLACK+DECKER Portable Air Conditioner (9,000 BTU)
The BLACK+DECKER is a best-selling portable AC built for compact rooms. With 9,000 BTUs of cooling power, it covers spaces up to 400 square feet, making it perfect for bedrooms, dorms, or small apartments. This 3-in-1 model functions as an air conditioner, dehumidifier, and fan. It includes an LED digital display and a full-function remote control for ease of use. The unit is mounted on caster wheels, so you can roll it from room to room. Installation is quick with the included window venting kit. While not as quiet as premium models, it offers strong cooling performance at a budget-friendly price.
Key Features:
➡️ 9,000 BTUs, cools up to 400 sq. ft.
➡️ AC, dehumidifier, fan
➡️ Remote control + LED display
➡️ Portable with caster wheels
Pros:
✅ Affordable and reliable
✅ Easy installation
✅ Portable design
✅ Strong cooling for small rooms
Cons:
❌ Louder than high-end models
❌ Limited to small spaces
❌ Needs regular draining
❌ No Wi-Fi/smart controls
SereneLife Portable Air Conditioner (8,000 BTU)
The SereneLife SLPAC8 is another compact 8,000 BTU model, ideal for rooms up to 350 sq. ft. It offers 3 operating modes—cooling, dehumidifier, and fan—plus a sleep mode for quieter operation at night. The built-in dehumidifier helps reduce humidity in small apartments, preventing mold and discomfort during hot, sticky summers. With rolling wheels and lightweight construction, it’s easy to move between rooms. The included remote lets you adjust settings without getting up. Quiet, sleek, and powerful enough for small spaces, this SereneLife unit is a solid alternative to the Black+Decker.
Key Features:
➡️ 8,000 BTU cooling power
➡️ Covers up to 350 sq. ft, wifi app.
➡️ Sleep mode + dehumidifier
➡️ Portable with wheels
Pros:
✅ Compact, modern design
✅ Sleep-friendly operation
✅ Built-in dehumidifier
✅ Easy to move
Cons:
❌ Works best in smaller rooms
❌ Water tank fills quickly in humid areas
❌ Louder than window ACs
❌ Basic remote (no smart features)
Whynter ARC-148MHP Portable Air Conditioner (14,000 BTU)
The Whynter ARC-148MHP is a sleek and energy-efficient 14,000 BTU portable AC, designed for rooms up to 500 sq. ft. It includes three modes—cool, dehumidify, and fan—and features an eco-friendly CFC-free refrigerant. The unit comes with a washable pre-filter and an activated carbon filter, improving air quality while cooling. The LED display and remote make operation simple, and its modern design blends into small apartments. Though slightly more expensive than entry-level models, the Whynter’s performance and durability make it a worthwhile investment.
Key Features:
➡️ 14,000 BTUs, up to 500 sq. ft.
➡️ 3-in-1 function
➡️ Dual filter system
➡️ Eco-friendly refrigerant
Pros:
✅ Energy-efficient and eco-friendly
✅ Dual air filters improve air quality
✅ Sleek, modern look
✅ Quiet operation
Cons:
❌ Pricier than 8,000 BTU units
❌ Heavier than budget models
❌ Limited color choices
❌ Setup takes longer
TOSOT 8,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner
The TOSOT 8,000 BTU Portable AC is designed with both style and function in mind. It cools up to 300 sq. ft., making it ideal for small living rooms or bedrooms. This unit runs quietly, with a sleep mode that lowers noise levels even further at night. It doubles as a dehumidifier and fan, and the reusable air filter makes it eco-friendly. The LED control panel and remote make adjustments simple, and the included window kit makes installation straightforward. With its attractive design and quiet operation, TOSOT is perfect for renters who want cooling without sacrificing aesthetics.
Key Features:
➡️ 8,000 BTU power
➡️ Cools up to 300 sq. ft.
➡️ Sleep mode for quiet nights
➡️ Washable filter
Pros:
✅ Quiet operation
✅ Stylish design
✅ 3-in-1 functionality
✅ Washable filter saves money
Cons:
❌ Water tank needs frequent draining
❌ Heavy to move
❌ No Wi-Fi controls
❌ Higher cost than some competitors
Honeywell HF0CESVWK6 Portable Air Conditioner (10,000 BTU)
The Honeywell HF0CESVWK6 is a trusted name in cooling. This 10,000 BTU portable AC is designed for rooms up to 350 sq. ft. It has a sleek white design, digital LED display, and remote control. Unlike many models, it features self-evaporation technology, reducing the need to manually empty water tanks in moderate humidity. It runs quietly and has a dual washable filter system to keep air fresh. With a 24-hour timer and multiple fan speeds, it’s a strong contender for medium-sized apartments.
Key Features:
➡️ 10,000 BTUs, up to 350 sq. ft.
➡️ Self-evaporation system
➡️ Dual washable filters
➡️ LED control panel
Pros:
✅ Reliable brand
✅ Low-maintenance design
✅ Covers larger rooms
✅ Quiet for size
Cons:
❌ Bulkier than 8,000 BTU models
❌ Higher price tag
❌ Setup can be tricky
❌ Heavy to move
Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Portable AC for Small Apartments
➡️ BTU Rating: For small bedrooms (up to 150 sq. ft.), 6,000–8,000 BTUs is enough. For studios or living rooms, go with 10,000–12,000 BTUs.
➡️ Noise Level: Look for sleep mode or models under 55 dB for quiet operation.
➡️ Size & Portability: Choose models with caster wheels and compact design for easy movement.
➡️ Energy Efficiency: Check for eco modes, timers, and reusable filters to save money.
➡️ Smart Features: Some newer models include Wi-Fi and app control for convenience.
FAQs
🙋1. Are portable air conditioners good for apartments?
📝! Yes, they’re renter-friendly, easy to install, and don’t require permanent fixtures.
🙋2. Do I need to drain the water tank?
📝! Some models self-evaporate, while others require manual draining in humid areas.
🙋3. Can portable ACs cool more than one room?
📝! They’re designed for single rooms. For larger spaces, you’ll need a higher BTU rating.
🙋4. Are they noisy?
📝! Most portable ACs make noise similar to a fan. Premium models include quieter sleep modes.
🙋5. What size AC do I need for a small bedroom?
📝! For up to 150 sq. ft., choose 6,000–8,000 BTUs.
Conclusion: Which Portable AC Should You Buy?
- Best Budget Option: BLACK+DECKER BPACT08WT (8,000 BTU)
- Best Quiet Operation: TOSOT 8,000 BTU
- Best Smart Features: Ivation Wi-Fi 10,000 BTU
- Best Premium Choice: De’Longhi Pinguino 12,000 BTU
- Best for Small Bedrooms: LG 6,000 BTU Portable AC
No matter the size of your apartment, there’s a compact, powerful, and efficient portable AC to keep you cool all summer long.
