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Summer’s scorching temperatures can make your home feel like a furnace. Portable air conditioners offer a convenient cooling solution, but finding one that doesn’t sound like a jet engine can be a challenge. This comprehensive guide of the quietest portable air conditioners explores the top nine models that prioritize both cooling power and peaceful operation.
TLDR: If near-silent operation is your top priority, the Midea is the king at just 42 dB (Decibels). Need to cool a larger area without sacrificing peace and quiet? The Whynter Inverter is a powerful yet hushed performer at 51 dB. For budget-conscious buyers seeking a balance of performance and affordability, the Shinco offers excellent value at a peaceful 52 dB.
Our comprehensive review covers noise levels, cooling capacity, room size compatibility, and special features to help you find the perfect balance between peaceful operation and effective cooling for your home.
Table of Contents
Quietest Portable Air Conditioners: Comparison Table
| Product Name | Sound Level (Decibels) | BTU (British Thermal Unit) | Best For | Our Rating (Max 5 Stars) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Midea | 42 dB | 10,000 BTU | Best for ultra-quiet operation | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| LG LP | 44 dB | 10,000 BTU | Runner-Up | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Whynter Inverter | 51 dB | 14,000 BTU | Best overall dual hose system | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Midea Duo | 52 dB | 12,000 BTU | Best for medium-sized spaces | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Shinco | 52 dB | 10,000 BTU | Best budget-friendly option | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Black+Decker | 53 dB | 14,000 BTU | Best smart features for large rooms | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Frigidaire COOLCONNECT | 53 dB | 12,000 BTU | Best energy-efficient option | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Costway | 55 dB | 10,000 BTU | Best compact design | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| SereneLife 3-in-1 | 55 dB | 8,000 BTU | Best for small rooms up to 215 sq ft | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Best Quietest Portable Air Conditioners in 2025
Midea – Quietest Portable Air Conditioner 2025
Sale
Midea 10,000 BTU ASHRAE (7,100 BTU SACC) Portable Air Conditioner, Smart Control, Cools up to 300…
- SMARTCOOL – Midea 10,000 BTU ASHRAE (7,100 BTU SACC) Portable Air Conditioner delivers fast,…
- SMART CONTROL – Control your portable AC from anywhere using the SmartHome app for iOS and Android….
- EFFORTLESS OPERATION – Enjoy the simplicity and comfort of digital controls. The portable AC…
The Midea SMART reigns supreme in the realm of quiet portable air conditioners. Operating at a whisper-quiet 52.8 dB, you’ll barely notice it’s running. This 10,000 BTU unit (7,100 BTU SACC) effectively cools rooms up to 300 sq ft, making it ideal for bedrooms, home offices, or small apartments. Forget the disruptive drone of window units or less sophisticated portable ACs; the Midea delivers refreshing coolness without the noise pollution.
Beyond its exceptional low-noise performance, the unit offers a range of convenient features, including dehumidifying and fan modes, providing versatile climate control for various conditions.
Take control of your comfort with the SmartHome app, enabling remote operation and scheduling from anywhere. Voice control integration with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant adds another layer of convenience, allowing you to adjust settings with simple voice commands.
The washable filter ensures clean air circulation, and the straightforward installation process means you can enjoy cool comfort within minutes.
LG LP – Runner-Up For Quiet Operation
LG 10000 BTU SACC(14000 ASHRAE) Portable Air Conditioners with Dual Inverter Cools 450 Sqft Ultra…
- [Maximum Cooling] Cooling Coverage up to 450 Square ft. is ideal for cooling medium to large rooms…
- [Efficient Inverter Technology] LG Inverter Portable Air Conditioners are up to 40% more power…
- [Lo-Decibel Quiet Operation] LG Portable Air Conditioners operate at sound levels as low as 44dB…
The LG LP is a masterclass in energy-efficient and quiet cooling. This 10,000 BTU portable AC unit utilizes advanced dual inverter compressor technology to cool spaces up to 450 sq ft while operating at a remarkably low 44 dB making it one of the most quiet smart portable air conditioners available today.
. This innovative technology not only minimizes noise but also significantly reduces energy consumption by up to 40%, resulting in lower electricity bills and a smaller environmental footprint.
Stay connected to your comfort with the ThinQ app, which allows for remote control, scheduling, and energy monitoring from your smartphone.
The LG LP also boasts an auto-evaporation system, minimizing the need for manual draining, and a washable filter for clean airflow.
While the initial investment may be slightly higher than some competitors, the long-term energy savings and whisper-quiet operation make the LG LP a smart choice for eco-conscious consumers.
Whynter Inverter – Best overall dual hose system + Editor’s Pick
Sale
Whynter Inverter Portable Air Conditioner 14,000 BTU with Dual Hose, Dehumidifier, Cooling Fan &…
- Award-Winning Portable AC Unit: Forbes Vetted’s 2024 “Best Portable Air Conditioner Overall”, this…
- Smart Control: The NetHome Plus app allows you to control your AC unit via WiFi from anywhere, plus…
- Inverter Technology: Dual-hose portable air conditioner offers 20% more cooling and 40% more…
The Whynter is our top pick of the smart portable air conditioners. This one is a true powerhouse, designed to tackle larger spaces without sacrificing quiet operation. With a robust 14,000 BTU cooling capacity and an innovative dual-hose design, this portable AC efficiently cools areas up to 600 sq ft while maintaining a surprisingly low 42.5 dB noise level.
The dual-hose system enhances cooling power by 20% and efficiency by 40% compared to single-hose models, ensuring rapid and effective cooling even in larger rooms.
Beyond its impressive cooling prowess, the Whynter Inverter offers dehumidifying and fan modes, providing versatile climate control for a variety of needs.
Control it remotely with the NetHome Plus app, adjusting settings and creating schedules from your smartphone. Voice control compatibility with smart home devices adds another layer of convenience.
The auto-drain function simplifies maintenance by automatically removing collected moisture, and the extendable exhaust hose allows for flexible window placement.
Midea Duo – Best for medium-sized spaces
Midea MAP12S1TBL Air Conditioner, 12,000 BTU-dual hose, Black
- INNOVATIVE DUO HOSE DESIGN – Midea’s industry-first hose-in-hose design enables the unit to intake…
- INVERTER TECHNOLOGY – Engineered with the variable-speed inverter technology, Midea Duo Inverter…
- MORE THAN 2X FASTER AND STRONGER COOLING – Empowerd by the Duo hose design and an optimized air duct…
The Midea Duo stands out with its innovative dual-hose design, which optimizes both cooling efficiency and silent functioning. This 12,000 BTU portable AC unit effectively cools medium to large spaces up to 550 sq ft while operating at a remarkably low 42 dB.
The dual-hose system creates balanced airflow, preventing the intake of hot air from outside, a common issue with single-hose models that can reduce efficiency and increase noise. This balanced airflow results in faster cooling times and a more consistently comfortable environment.
Control the Midea Duo remotely with the Midea Air app, adjusting temperature settings, creating schedules, and monitoring performance from your smartphone. For hands-free operation, utilize voice control with compatible smart home devices.
The auto-evaporation system minimizes maintenance by reducing the need for frequent draining of the water collection tank.
Shinco – Best budget-friendly option
Shinco 10,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner, Portable AC Unit with Built-in Cool, Dehumidifier & Fan…
- 【OUTSTANDING COOLING ABILITY】- Shinco powerful ac unit owns a cooling capacity of 10,000…
- 【3-in-1 FUNCTION】- This portable air conditioner is designed with a 3-in-1 function that allows…
- 【QUICK INSTALLATION】- Installation is quick and easy with the included exhaust hose and window…
The Shinco proves that you don’t have to sacrifice performance or quiet operation for affordability. This 10,000 BTU (6,450 BTU SACC) portable AC unit efficiently cools rooms up to 300 sq ft while maintaining a reasonably quiet 52 dB operation. It offers three operating modes – cooling, dehumidifying, and fan – providing versatile climate control for various needs and weather conditions. The dehumidifying mode is particularly useful in humid climates, helping to remove excess moisture from the air and create a more comfortable environment.
Installation is a breeze, thanks to the included window kit and easy-to-follow instructions. The user-friendly controls and intuitive interface make it a great option for first-time portable AC users.
The Shinco is a smart choice for budget-conscious consumers.
Black+Decker 14,000 – Best smart features for large rooms
BLACK+DECKER 10,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner up to 450 Sq. with Remote Control, White
- Portable AC: Use this personal air conditioner (15.3” x 14” x 24.8″) in rooms up to 450 sq. ft….
- 3-in-1: 3-in-1: Our 5800 BTU DOE (10000 BTU ASHRAE 128) air conditioner also functions as a…
- Impressive Features: Set the temperature just right with this ac portable air conditioner. Our ac…
The BLACK+DECKER isn’t just a portable air conditioner; it’s a smart cooling solution designed for the modern home. This powerful 14,000 BTU (10,000 BTU DOE) unit efficiently cools large rooms up to 700 sq ft, making it ideal for living rooms, open-plan spaces, or even small apartments.
Despite its robust cooling capacity, the BPACT14WT operates at a surprisingly manageable 53 dB, striking a balance between powerful performance and reasonably hushed operation.
What truly sets this unit apart is its suite of smart features. Wi-Fi connectivity and integration with the BLACK+DECKER mobile app (available for iOS and Android) allow you to control the unit remotely, adjusting temperature settings, creating custom schedules, and monitoring performance from anywhere with an internet connection. Voice control compatibility with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant adds another layer of convenience, enabling hands-free operation with simple voice commands.
The unique “Follow Me” remote control feature allows the remote to act as a thermostat, ensuring precise temperature control wherever you are in the room. The included window kit simplifies installation, and the large, vented airflow outlet effectively distributes cool air throughout the space.
Frigidaire Cool Connect – Best energy-efficient option
Frigidaire 12,000 BTU Cool Connect Smart Portable Air Conditioner, Rooms Upto 550-Sq. Ft
- Wi-Fi ready Connected room air conditioner with Frigidaire smart app for mobile operation
- 12, 000 BTUs Cools up to a 550 square foot room with 3 pints per hour dehumidification. Watts (Cool)…
- 360-Degree airflow Circulates cool air in an upwards, continuous spiral ensuring it reaches every…
The Frigidaire Cool Connect lives up to its name, offering a compelling combination of energy efficiency and smart connectivity. This Energy Star certified 12,000 BTU portable AC unit efficiently cools spaces up to 550 sq ft while maintaining a relatively quiet 44 dB operation. Its innovative 360-degree airflow system ensures even distribution of cool air throughout the room, eliminating hot spots and creating a consistently comfortable environment.
Stay connected to your comfort with the Frigidaire app, which allows for remote control, scheduling, and energy monitoring from your smartphone or tablet. Take advantage of features like the auto-cool function, which automatically adjusts the cooling performance on the room temperature, and the energy saver mode, which optimizes energy consumption for maximum efficiency. The sleep mode gradually increases the temperature throughout the night, ensuring comfortable sleep without wasting energy.
While the Frigidaire Cool Connect may come with a higher price tag than some competitors, its energy-saving features and smart technology make it a valuable investment for the environmentally conscious consumer.
Costway 10,000 – Best compact design
COSTWAY 10000BTU Portable Air Conditioner with Drying, Fan, Sleep Mode, 2 Speeds, 24H Timer, Remote…
- ❄️【Multi-function Air Conditioner:】This 10000BTU air conditioner features four…
- ❄️【Nice Cooling Solution:】Our air cooler covers a cooling area up to 350 sq.ft with 330…
- ❄️【Smart Control Panel & Remote Control:】You can set the machine simply by pressing the…
The Costway is a compact and versatile cooling solution designed for smaller spaces. This 10,000 BTU rating portable unit AC unit efficiently cools rooms up to 350 sq ft while operating at a reasonably quiet 55 dB. Its compact size and lightweight design make it easy to move between rooms or store away when not in use, making it a perfect choice for apartments, dorm rooms, or smaller homes.
The Costway offers four operating modes: cooling, drying (dehumidifier), fan, and sleep. This versatility allows you to customize the unit’s operation to suit your specific needs and preferences. The sleep mode gradually increases the temperature setting throughout the night, ensuring comfortable sleep without overcooling the room.
The included window kit simplifies installation, and the adjustable louvers allow you to direct the airflow precisely where you need it.
The Costway offers a compelling combination of compact design, versatile operation, and reasonably quiet performance at an affordable price.
SereneLife 3-in-1 – Best for small rooms up to 215 sq ft
SereneLife Small Air Conditioner Portable 10,000 BTU with Built-in Dehumidifier – Portable AC unit…
- COOLING: The SereneLife Portable Air Conditioner is perfect for cooling your rooms up to 450 sq ft….
- 3-in-1 FUNCTIONS: Our 8,000 BTU compact Portable AC unit features a simple electric plug-in…
- DEHUMIDIFIER: With its dehumidifying feature, this standing AC unit for bedroom, effectively cools,…
The SereneLife 3-in-1 is specifically designed for smaller spaces, offering efficient cooling and dehumidification without taking up valuable floor space. This lightweight and portable 8,000 BTU air conditioning unit is perfect for rooms up to 215 sq ft, such as bedrooms, home offices, or dorm rooms.
Operating at a reasonably quiet 55-57 dB, the SereneLife provides effective cooling without excessive noise output. Its compact size and integrated carrying handles make it incredibly easy to move between rooms or store away when not needed.
Beyond cooling, the SereneLife offers dehumidifying and fan modes, providing versatile climate control for various conditions. The dehumidifying mode helps to remove excess moisture from the air, creating a more comfortable and healthy indoor environment, especially in humid climates.
While it may lack some of the advanced features found in higher-end models, the SereneLife offers reliable performance, convenient portability, and quieter operation at an affordable price, making one of the best portable air conditioners for budget-conscious consumers with smaller cooling needs.
Considerations When Buying a Portable A/C
Choosing the right portable air conditioner depends on a variety of factors, including room size, budget, desired features, and noise level tolerance. This guide has provided a comprehensive overview of the top nine quietest portable AC units on the market, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision.
Consider Room Size
- Small rooms (up to 250 sq ft): 8,000-10,000 BTU
- Medium rooms (250-450 sq ft): 10,000-12,000 BTU
- Large rooms (450-700 sq ft): 13,000-14,000 BTU
Noise Level Guide
- Ultra-quiet (40-45 dB): Similar to a library
- Very quiet (45-50 dB): Like a quiet conversation
- Moderately quiet (50-55 dB): Background noise level
- Average (55-60 dB): Normal conversation level
Feature Priorities
- Smart home users: Look for app control, voice integration
- Energy conscious: Prioritize Energy Star ratings, inverter technology
- Humid climates: Strong dehumidification capabilities are important
- Light sleepers: Prioritize units under 45 dB for bedrooms
Hose Configuration
- Single-hose units: More common, easier to install
- Dual-hose units: 20-40% more efficient, better for larger spaces
- Ventless units: For spaces without window access (see FAQ)
FAQ
What is the best and quietest portable air conditioner?
The Midea is consistently rated as the quietest portable air conditioner in 2025, operating at just 42 dB. This whisper-quiet operation combined with efficient 10,000 BTU cooling capacity makes it ideal for spaces up to 300 sq ft. For larger spaces requiring more power without sacrificing quiet operation, the Whynter Inverter offers 14,000 BTU while maintaining a surprisingly low noise level of 51 dB, making it suitable for rooms up to 600 sq ft.
What is the best quiet portable air conditioner for bedrooms?
The Midea is the top choice for bedroom use with its ultra-quiet 42 dB operation. The LG LP with dual inverter technology is another excellent bedroom option at just 44 dB, with the added benefit of energy efficiency. For smaller bedrooms, the SereneLife offers sufficient cooling at 55 dB and is specifically designed for spaces up to 215 sq ft. When selecting a bedroom unit, prioritize models with sleep modes that gradually adjust temperature and fan speed throughout the night for uninterrupted rest.
Are portable air conditioners louder than window units?
The answer varies depending on design and placement. Window air conditioners typically place the noisiest components (compressor and condenser) outside the window, directing much of the operational noise outdoors. Portable air conditioners, however, contain all components inside the room, which can make them seem louder. On average, window units produce around 54-56 dB of noise compared to 52-56 dB for quality portable units. However, advanced portable models with inverter technology, like the Midea Duo and LG units, have significantly reduced noise levels in recent years, making the quietest portable options comparable to or even quieter than many window units.
Can I use a portable air conditioner in a room without windows?
Yes, you can use a portable air conditioner in a room without windows through several alternative venting methods. Options include using a sliding door, drop ceiling, wall vent kit, or dedicated through-wall installation. For truly windowless spaces, ventless evaporative coolers (sometimes called “swamp coolers”) can provide cooling without requiring external venting, though they work best in dry climates and don’t provide true air conditioning. Some newer models like the Coolzy Pro offer specialized designs for rooms without standard venting options. Another option is a dual-hose portable air conditioner vented through a dryer vent, bathroom exhaust, or custom wall opening. Remember that all traditional portable air conditioners must vent hot air somewhere outside the space to effectively cool.
