Top 5 AC Units for Apartments: A Quick Review Guide

Imagine this: the summer sun beats down, turning your apartment into a sauna. You dream of that cool, refreshing blast from an air conditioner. But then the hunt begins! Finding the perfect “Air Conditioner Apartment” feels like searching for treasure. Which units have built-in AC? Are window units allowed? These questions can quickly turn a simple apartment search into a sweaty headache.

Choosing an apartment with the right cooling system is crucial for comfort, health, and even your electricity bill. Many renters face the pain of signing a lease only to find out the AC is weak or nonexistent. You need reliable cool air, not just promises.

This guide cuts through the confusion. We will show you exactly what to look for when scouting apartments. Learn the difference between central air and window units, and discover the right questions to ask landlords before you sign. Get ready to secure a cool, comfortable home this summer.

Top Air Conditioner Apartment Recommendations

Bestseller No. 1

Amazon Basics 5000-BTU Small Window Air Conditioner, Up to 150 Sqf, Window AC Units with Cool and Fan Functions, Washable Filter, Adjustable Window Kit, Intuitive Mechanical Controls, White

EFFICIENT COOLING: 5000 BTU cooling capacity ideal for rooms up to 150 sq. ft. - perfect for bedrooms, home offices, or small living spaces. Two-in-one functionality with cooling and fan-only modes
SMART MAINTENANCE: Equipped with an easy-access, washable filter that captures dust and allergens.
CUSTOMIZABLE COMFORT: Features 7 precise temperature settings, 2-speed cooling and fan modes, and 2-way air direction control for personalized comfort
QUIET OPERATION: Low noise level up to 56 dB creates a peaceful environment suitable for sleeping and working
QUICK INSTALLATION: Fits standard windows 23"-36" wide and minimum 13" high. Comes with expandable side panels and complete mounting kit. Basic tools required for installation (screwdriver not included)

SaleBestseller No. 2

Evaporative Air Cooler with Remote & Timer, 2200+ CFM Portable Fan That Blows Cold Air for Large Room, Home Office, Bedroom - 2.1Gal High-Capacity Tank, 3 Modes, Whisper Quiet 30dB & Sleep Mode

Portable Air Conditioners for Family: Experience unparalleled comfort with our portable ac, featuring a cooling range that oscillates 110° vertically and 80° horizontally. Enjoy a consistent, cool environment regardless with a powerful wind speed of up to 28ft/s and airflow distance of 45ft, Perfect for family gatherings or quiet evenings at home
Rapid Cooling with Arctic Air: Beat the heat with upgraded triple-sided cooling pads designed for maximum efficiency! Ac fan producing cool air faster than traditional models. Within minutes, you can feel the refreshing chill enveloping your room, stay cool effortlessly while enjoying your favorite activities with swamp cooler
Long-Lasting Refreshment: Fan for bedroom with cold air designed for extended use, this air cooler for room features an 2.1Gal/8L water tank combined with two ice packs to maximize cooling performance. Say goodbye to frequent refills, enjoy uninterrupted freshness; Ideal for family cooling fans that blow cold air or relaxing nights in front of the TV, this portable air cooler keeps everyone feeling comfortable and refreshed all day long
Ultimate Comfort Sleep with Personal Air Conditioner: Experience the tranquility of restful nights with our ultra-quiet operation, reaching as low as 30dB. Enjoy a dedicated sleep mode designed for your relaxation. The convenient 12-hour timer lets you set it before bed and forget about it, guaranteeing a serene sleeping environment customized just for you. Drift off into deep, undisturbed sleep without any distractions
Versatile Swamp Cooler Air Conditioner: Keeping your living space comfortable with 3 adjustable fan speeds, whether you're winding down after work and craving a gentle breeze or needing strong airflow during hot afternoons; Our portable cooler is equipped with three essential functions, breeze, humidifying, and cooling, select from three operational settings, normal, natural, and sleep mode according to your preferences or seasonal needs, optimal comfort

SaleBestseller No. 3

Midea 5,000 BTU EasyCool Small Window Air Conditioner - Cool up to 150 Sq. Ft. with Easy-to-Use Mechanical Controls and Reusable Filter, Perfect for Small Bedroom, Living Room, Home Office

PERFECT FOR SMALLER ROOMS - Midea's Affordable Window AC unit is perfect to help your room be as comfortable as possible. It can cool a space with 7 temperature settings, 2 cooling/2 fan only speeds and 2-way air direction to give you the perfect amount of cooling every time.Controller type:Button Control.Air Flow efficiency:145 CFM.Core material : Copper..Control Type : Electronic. Refrigerant : R410A.
ENERGY EFFICIENT- Midea's 5,000 BTU window air conditioner has a Combined Energy Efficiency Rate (CEER) of 11.0 which helps reduce the energy costs to save you money throughout the year.
QUIET & EASY TO USE - This window AC unit is more quiet than a household refrigerator. It also features easy-to-use mechanical controls to quickly set the time, temperature, and mode and has a removable & reusable air filter.
EASY INSTALLATION - Easily install in your home or apartments existing window frame. Suitable for windows 23''-36'' wide and minimum 13'' high. All mounting accessories are included. A screwdriver is required (but not included) for installation. For some window frames, pilot holes are recommended before installing screws. Please see included instruction manual for further detail.
WARRANTY: 1 Year Parts & Labor Warranty comes with each Midea product to ensure the quality of our brand to our customers. Our team is happy to help if any questions or issues arise and make sure to register your product on our website for even faster support in the future.

Bestseller No. 4

BLACK+DECKER Portable Air Conditioner, 8,500 BTU for Rooms Up To 350 Sq. Ft., Portable AC with Full Function Remote Control & Window Kit, BPACT05SM, White

Three-in-One AC Unit: Our 8,500 BTU (5,100 BTU SACC) portable air conditioner combines an air conditioner, dehumidifier and fan for all your cooling & ventilation needs in rooms up to 350 sq. ft.
For Small Rooms & Living Spaces: Our room air conditioners provide fast, effective cooling for up to 350 sq. ft., making it ideal for dorms, apartments, cabins, offices, bedrooms, or living rooms
User-Friendly Controls: Featuring a top-mounted control panel with LED display, this ac unit for bedroom allows you to easily manage your indoor air conditioner settings for personalized comfort
Full Function Remote Control: Our portable AC unit comes with a convenient remote control that allows you to control all the features without having to get up and use the control panel
Eco-Friendly: Utilizing R-32 refrigerant, this air conditioner portable unit is environmentally friendly and improves energy efficiency making it one of the best portable room ac units available

Bestseller No. 5

DREO Portable Air Conditioners, 8000 BTU ASHRAE (5000 BTU DOE) Smart AC Unit for Bedroom with Drainage-free Cooling, 45dB Quiet, APP/Voice/Remote, Portable AC for Room Indoors, AC318S

𝗨𝗹𝘁𝗿𝗮 𝗣𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿𝗳𝘂𝗹 𝗜𝗰𝗲𝗖𝗼𝗼𝗹 𝗦𝘆𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗺: Increase coverage up to 14 ft. away with this 8000 BTU ASHRAE (5000 BTU SACC) portable air conditioners and its best buddy, the fan, giving you instant chills even in hot summer days. Additionally, you can keep the temperature between 61°F to 86°F using various controls to tailor the cooling to your preferences.
𝟯-𝗶𝗻-𝟭 𝗩𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗹𝗲 𝗔𝗖 𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁: You can not only choose from Cool/Fan/Dry modes, but the AC318S also has three functions to control within each mode, making it perfect for all scenarios. Stay dry and comfortable with DREO AC unit powerful dehumidification!
𝗗𝗥𝗘𝗢'𝘀 𝗣𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗡𝗼𝗶𝘀𝗲 𝗜𝘀𝗼𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗦𝘆𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗺: reduces the standing ac compressor and turbulence noise to just 45dB, ideal for bedtime or working environments without interruptions.
𝗧𝗿𝘂𝗲 𝗗𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗴𝗲-𝗳𝗿𝗲𝗲 𝗦𝘆𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗺: This self evaporating portable ac equipped with DREO's patented algorithm, sensors and pump evaporate excess water automatically eliminating the need for drainage in environments under 90% humidity. A drain hose (included) is required for environments with humidity above 90%.
𝗦𝗺𝗮𝗿𝘁 𝗖𝗹𝗶𝗺𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗼𝗹: Control this smart ac unit for bedroom with your voice using Siri, Amazon Alexa and Google Home, or tailor your cooling experience by monitoring temp, humidity and customizing your sleep curve function through the DREO app.

SaleBestseller No. 6

BLACK+DECKER 8,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner up to 350 Sq. with Remote Control, White

Three-In-One: Our 8000 BTU (4,100 BTU SACC) air conditioner also functions as a dehumidifier & fan. This portable air conditioner (45.8 lbs.) has a convenient remote control & top mounted control panel with LED display.
Portable AC: Use this personal air conditioner (15.3” x 14” x 24.8”) in rooms up to 350 sq. ft. Stay cool in the hot summer months and sleep well with this BLACK+DECKER ac unit for bedroom.
Impressive Features: Set the temperature just right with this ac portable air conditioner. Our ac unit portable also has a slide-out washable filter, auto water evaporation, & 24-hour timer.
Easy Mobility: Thanks to casters on the bottom and side handles on both sides of the small air conditioner, this air cooler can be moved from room to room without any hassle.
Installation Kit: When it comes to fans that blow cold air, this indoor ac unit includes an easy-to-install window kit. A large, vented airflow outlet ushers in cool air.

Bestseller No. 7

Portable Air Conditioner, 2025 Upgraded 4-IN-1 Ultra-Quiet Design Portable AC Unit with 2 Cool Mist & Speeds1500ml Remote Control Air Conditioner Evaporative for Home,Office,Bedroom, Camping

2025 Upgraded 4-in-1 Multifunctional Design This versatile unit combines a portable air conditioner, humidifier, fan, and 7-color night light in one. Ideal for home, office, bedroom, or camping, it provides year-round comfort wherever you go.
3 Fan Speeds & 2 Cool Mist Modes Customize your cooling experience with 3 adjustable wind speeds and 2 mist modes. The large 1500ml water tank offers up to 8 hours of continuous mist, improving air humidity and helping you stay refreshed and moisturized.
Ultra-Quiet Operation with Timer Function Featuring the latest 2025 upgraded evaporative cooling technology, this unit runs whisper-quiet—perfect for sleep or focused work. Built-in 1H/3H/6H timer allows automatic shut-off to save energy and give you peace of mind.
90° Adjustable Airflow & Remote Control The adjustable louver offers 90° up-and-down movement, letting you direct cool air exactly where you need it. Comes with a convenient remote control for easy operation from a distance.
Portable USB Powered for Any Occasion Compact and lightweight, this portable AC fan is USB powered and compatible with power banks, laptops, adapters, car chargers, and more (adapter not included). Great for indoor and outdoor use—stay cool anywhere, anytime.

SaleBestseller No. 8

Humhold 12000 BTU Portable Air Conditioners with Remote Control, 3-in-1 Free Standing Cooling AC Unit with Fan & Dehumidifier, Cools Room up to 500 sq.ft, Smart/Sleep Mode,3 Speed,24H Timer,Window Kit

【12000 BTU Powerful Cooling Efficient】Humhold Powerful Portable AC unit owns a cooling capacity of 12,000 BTU(ASHRAE) / 8,000 BTU(SACC), has an most energy efficient compressor that can supply cold air up to 500 sq. ft of large space, such as living room, bedroom, apartment, home kitchen, garage, basement and office, make you feel cool all the time in hot summer.
【3-in-1 Cooling/Dehumidify/Fan Function】 The smart portable air conditioner offers the convenience of 3-in-1 functions, including Cooling,3-speeds Fan, and Dehumidify, which meets your daily needs. You can freely adjust the temperature in cooling mode, ranging from (61℉ to 86℉) in hot seasons. The dehumidifier capacity of 75 Pints/day can effectively reduce the humidity in small room, and as a fan to circulate indoor air at all times, removing excess moisture and releasing fresh air for a healthy and comfortable environment.
【Front LED Display & Remote Control】 Our self evaporating portable ac unit is equipped with an easy-to-read Front LED Display，combined with full-function remote control which has LED display and up to 23 feets control distance, you can easily set the temperature and wind speed you want while sitting on the sofa or lying on the bed, no need to get close or stand up, maximize the convenience of mobile air conditioners.The Remote requires 2pcs AAA 1.5V dry batteries (package not included).
【No Need To Drain】With Built-in water self-evaporation system, there is no need to drain water for daily use, the water will auto evaporate through hose. If it is placed in humid room (air humidity exceeds 70%) such as basement, laundry room, it needs to drain every 8 hours, or the machine will stop for the water tank inside is full, you need to unplug the drain plugs on the back and connect draining pipe to drain, then start the machine again.
【Smart & Sleep Mode with 24H Timer】 Built-in internal temp-sensor, Smart Mode enables the ac unit run in Cool or Fan mode based on room temp, Keep your room at the most comfortable temperature 73F-77F. Sleep Mode will maintain an optimal temperature in low speed, and provide you less than 48dB quiet bedroom. You can also preset to stop the ac unit after 0.5-24 hours. (note: When the temperature difference between the set temperature and the ambient temperature exceeds 15F, the air unit will run at high power and emit a noise of nearly 60dB.)

Your Smart Guide to Choosing the Best Apartment Air Conditioner

Living in an apartment means space is often limited. Finding the right air conditioner (AC) is key to staying cool without causing headaches. This guide helps you pick the perfect unit for your space.

1. Key Features to Look For

When shopping for an apartment AC, certain features make a big difference in comfort and cost. You need to look closely at these:

Cooling Power (BTUs)

What it is: BTUs (British Thermal Units) measure how much heat the AC can remove. More BTUs mean more cooling power.
Why it matters: Too little power means the room stays hot. Too much power wastes energy and makes the room too damp.
Rule of Thumb: Small rooms need 5,000–8,000 BTUs. Medium rooms need 10,000–12,000 BTUs.

Energy Efficiency (EER/SEER Ratings)

What it is: These ratings show how much electricity the AC uses to cool. Higher numbers are better.
Why it matters: High efficiency saves you money on your monthly electric bill.

Noise Level (Decibels – dB)

What it is: This measures how loud the unit runs. Low numbers mean quiet operation.
Why it matters: In apartments, noise can bother you and your neighbors. Look for units under 55 dB for bedrooms.

Smart Features and Controls

Many modern units include Wi-Fi control. You can turn the AC on or off using your phone.
Programmable timers help you set specific temperatures for certain times of the day.

2. Important Materials and Types

Apartment ACs usually come in three main styles. The materials affect installation and lifespan.

Window Units

These are the most common. They are made of durable plastic and metal housing.
They fit directly into a window opening. Installation is usually simple.

Portable Units

These units sit on the floor and use a hose vented out a window. They often have plastic casings.
They are easy to move between rooms, but they take up floor space.

Ductless Mini-Splits

These are the most efficient but require professional installation. They have an indoor unit and an outdoor compressor.
The indoor unit is usually sleek plastic and metal.

3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

The overall quality of an AC is determined by a few key areas.

Improved Quality Factors

Inverter Technology: This feature lets the compressor speed up or slow down smoothly. It keeps the temperature steady and uses less power than older, cycling units.
Filter Quality: Good filters (like washable or HEPA) trap more dust and keep the cooling coils clean longer.

Reduced Quality Factors

Cheap Plastic Components: Units built with very thin, low-quality plastic often break faster or become very noisy over time.
Poor Sealing: If the unit is not sealed well, it lets outside air leak in, making it work harder and wasting energy.

4. User Experience and Use Cases

Think about how you plan to use the AC. This changes what you should buy.

For Small Bedrooms or Offices

A small, quiet window unit or a compact portable unit works best here. You need reliability without taking up too much precious space.

For Open-Plan Living Areas

These areas need higher BTUs. A powerful window unit or a mini-split system will handle the larger space better. The mini-split provides the best overall experience because it is quiet and very efficient.

Rental Considerations

If you rent, avoid permanent installations like mini-splits unless your landlord approves. Window units are usually allowed, but check your lease about window coverage.

Apartment AC Buying Guide FAQs

Q: What is the easiest type of AC to install in a rental apartment?

A: Window units are usually the easiest. They fit into the existing window frame. Portable units are also easy; you just need to attach the exhaust hose to the window.

Q: How do I calculate the right BTU size for my room?

A: Measure the square footage (length times width). For every 150 square feet, you need about 5,000 BTUs. Always round up if your room gets lots of sun.

Q: Are portable AC units really effective?

A: They cool the air, but they are less efficient than window units. They work best for temporary cooling or in rooms where window units cannot be installed. Remember, the exhaust hose gets hot.

Q: How much louder are cheap AC units compared to expensive ones?

A: Cheap units can run above 60 dB, which is like a normal conversation. High-quality units often run below 50 dB, which is much quieter—like a refrigerator running.

Q: Should I choose an AC with a dehumidifier function?

A: Yes, if you live in a humid area. Cooling the air also removes moisture, but a dedicated dehumidifier setting helps dry out damp air without making the room too cold.

Q: What is the main benefit of inverter technology?

A: Inverter technology uses less electricity because the compressor never fully shuts off and restarts. It just slows down, which saves energy and keeps the temperature very steady.

Q: Can I use an AC if I have sliding glass doors instead of standard windows?

A: Standard window units do not fit sliding doors well. You should look for a portable AC unit, which comes with a special panel kit designed to seal the gap in a sliding door.

Q: How often should I clean the filter?

A: For daily use, you should clean the filter at least once a month. A clean filter ensures the AC cools efficiently and lasts longer.

Q: Do I need to worry about the drain pan on my window unit?

A: Most modern window units are designed to evaporate the water they collect. However, if you live in a very humid place, you might see water dripping. Ensure the unit is tilted slightly outward so water drains outside, not onto your floor.

Q: Are mini-splits worth the high installation cost for an apartment?

A: If you plan to stay long-term and need quiet, powerful cooling for a large area, yes. They are the most efficient choice available, even if the initial cost is higher.