Best Windowless Air Conditioner

Mick

By Mick

| Updated 3 Days Ago

  • Air conditioning is essential during hot summer months, but window units aren’t always practical or allowed, making windowless air conditioners a great alternative. These portable units offer flexible cooling without needing window installation, and can easily be moved from room to room. Windowless air conditioners work by pulling in warm air, cooling it, and venting the hot air outside through a hose placed in a window or small opening. When choosing a windowless air conditioner, consider the size of the space, ensuring the unit’s cooling capacity (measured in BTUs) matches your room. Noise level, energy efficiency, and ease of maintenance are also important factors. After testing several models, we found the best windowless air conditioners for effective cooling and user-friendly features.

  • CENSTECH Evaporative Cooler

    10

    We think this versatile 4-in-1 cooler is a great choice for those in dry climates looking for an energy-efficient cooling solution.

    10

    We think this versatile 4-in-1 cooler is a great choice for those in dry climates looking for an energy-efficient cooling solution.

    Pros

    • No installation needed
    • Multiple modes and speeds
    • Large water tank for extended use

    Cons

    • Only suitable for dry climates
    • Needs regular water refills
    • May not cool as effectively as traditional AC

    We tested the CENSTECH Evaporative Cooler in a hot, dry room and were impressed by its cooling power. The unit quickly brought down the temperature and added much-needed moisture to the air. We liked that we could just plug it in and start using it right away, with no complicated setup.

    The three fan speeds and modes gave us plenty of options to customize our cooling experience. On the highest setting, we felt a strong breeze that cooled us off fast. The sleep mode was nice and quiet, perfect for nighttime use without disturbing our rest.

    We found the 1-gallon water tank lasted about 8 hours before needing a refill, which was convenient. The included ice packs were a nice touch, boosting the cooling effect when we added them to the tank. The remote control let us adjust settings from across the room, and the oscillation feature helped distribute cool air evenly.

    CENSTECH Evaporative Cooler
    • ❄️【𝟒-𝐈𝐍-𝟏 𝐄𝐯𝐚𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐀𝐢𝐫 𝐂𝐨𝐨𝐥𝐞𝐫 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐃𝐫𝐲 𝐂𝐥𝐢𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬】CENSTECH Swamp Cooler functions as an Air Cooler, Humidifier, and a Fan. Unlike conventional ACs, the evaporative air cooler provides optimal cooling and humidity, enhancing your living and work spaces without excessive drying, helping to keep skin hydrated. Tailored for areas like the Southwestern US, California, and New Mexico, where summers can be uncomfortably dry.
  • BALKO Evaporative Cooler

    9.7

    We think this cooler is a solid choice for those seeking affordable, portable cooling without installation hassles.

    9.7

    We think this cooler is a solid choice for those seeking affordable, portable cooling without installation hassles.

    Pros

    • Large 8-gallon water tank
    • Versatile 3-in-1 functionality
    • Easy to move with wheels and handle

    Cons

    • Not as powerful as traditional AC
    • Requires regular refilling
    • May not be ideal for very humid areas

    We recently got our hands on the BALKO Evaporative Cooler, and it’s been a breath of fresh air in our test space. The first thing we noticed was how easy it was to set up and move around. With its wheels and handle, we could roll it from room to room without breaking a sweat.

    The 8-gallon water tank is a standout feature. We filled it up and didn’t have to worry about refills for a good 10 hours. It’s perfect for those long, hot days when you don’t want to fuss with your cooling system. The top-fill design is a nice touch too – no more awkward bending or spills.

    We put the three speed settings to the test. On high, it pushed out a strong breeze that quickly made our 700 sq. ft. room feel cooler. The oscillation feature helped spread the cool air evenly. We liked that we could adjust the settings with the remote while relaxing on the couch.

    BALKO Evaporative Cooler
    • ❄【𝟖 𝐆𝐚𝐥 𝐋𝐚𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐫 𝐕𝐢𝐬𝐮𝐚𝐥 𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐓𝐚𝐧𝐤𝐬】BALKO Evaporative air cooler has a top-filling, large water tank with a total capacity of 8 gallons that can cool your room or garage for up to 10 hours. The top-fill design means no more bending down to refill, providing increased safety and convenience, particularly for the elderly and pregnant women. Moreover, the swamp cooler intuitive max-min lines easily track water levels, allowing you to continue enjoying cool summer days.
  • BALKO 25-Inch Air Cooler

    9.5

    We recommend this versatile 3-in-1 cooler for its energy efficiency and portability.

    9.5

    We recommend this versatile 3-in-1 cooler for its energy efficiency and portability.

    Pros

    • 3-in-1 functionality (fan, cooler, humidifier)
    • Energy-efficient at 60W
    • Easy to move with wheels and handle

    Cons

    • Not as powerful as traditional AC
    • Requires regular water refills
    • May not cool large spaces effectively

    We tried out the BALKO 25-Inch Air Cooler in our home office. Its compact size fit nicely in the corner, and we loved how easy it was to wheel around. The 3-in-1 design caught our eye – it works as a fan, air cooler, and humidifier all in one.

    Setting it up was a breeze. We just added water and the included ice packs, then pressed the cooling button. The cool air felt great on a hot day. We liked the 70° oscillation, which helped spread the cool air around the room. The remote control was handy too – we could change settings from across the room.

    One thing to keep in mind is that this isn’t as powerful as a traditional AC unit. It worked well in our small office, but might struggle in larger spaces. We had to refill the water tank every few hours during heavy use. But for the price and energy savings, we think it’s a solid choice for spot cooling in dry climates.

    BALKO 25-Inch Air Cooler
    • ❄️【𝐂𝐨𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐇𝐮𝐦𝐢𝐝𝐢𝐟𝐲𝐢𝐧𝐠, 𝐀𝐥𝐥 𝐈𝐧 𝟏】BALKO 3-IN-1 evaporative cooler combines a fan, air cooler, and humidifier in one device. Add water and ice packs (3 included), press the cooling button, and enjoy the cold wind blowing out. Upon package receipt, check ice packs on top & bottom of the water tank. Enjoy personal cooling and comfort with fewer bucks for one unit.
  • Verminget Portable AC

    9.4

    We think this portable AC is a solid choice for those seeking affordable and flexible cooling in small spaces.

    9.4

    We think this portable AC is a solid choice for those seeking affordable and flexible cooling in small spaces.

    Pros

    • Large 3-gallon water tank
    • Energy-efficient at 65W
    • Quiet operation at 45dB

    Cons

    • Limited cooling range
    • Requires regular water refills
    • May not be suitable for very hot climates

    We tested the Verminget Portable AC in various rooms of our house. Its compact size and wheels made it easy to move around. We liked how it cooled small areas quickly.

    The 3-gallon water tank lasted about 20 hours before needing a refill. This was great for overnight use. The unit also helped add moisture to dry rooms, which was a nice bonus.

    We found the 45dB noise level very quiet. It didn’t bother us during sleep or while working. The remote control was handy for adjusting settings from across the room.

    The cooling effect was noticeable in spaces up to 270 square feet. It worked best in smaller rooms like bedrooms or home offices. For larger areas, we needed to place it closer to where we were sitting.

    We appreciated the energy efficiency of this unit. At just 65 watts, it used much less power than traditional air conditioners. This could lead to lower electric bills during hot months.

    The 70-degree oscillation spread cool air evenly. We could feel the difference in air temperature within minutes of turning it on. The three fan speeds let us adjust the cooling to our comfort level.

    Verminget Portable AC
    • ❄️【2024 Upgraded Portable Air Conditioners Efficient Cooling】Our air cooler adopt the 3IN1 function,you can use the swamp cooler as a fan/air conditioner portable for room/humidifier. The 2024 upgraded efficient motor offers extreme cooling capabilities that quickly cool hot air while adding moisture to dry/hot rooms.This portable air conditioner can bring more powerful cooling air to the room,living room,bedroom,kitchen,garage and office.
  • AIRTHRYL Portable Air Cooler

    9.3

    We recommend this versatile air cooler for its effective cooling, quiet operation, and user-friendly features.

    9.3

    We recommend this versatile air cooler for its effective cooling, quiet operation, and user-friendly features.

    Pros

    • 3-in-1 functionality (cooler, fan, AC)
    • Large 2-gallon water tank
    • Remote control for convenience

    Cons

    • Limited cooling range
    • Requires regular water refills
    • May not be suitable for very hot climates

    We tested the AIRTHRYL Portable Air Cooler in various settings and were impressed by its performance. The 3-in-1 functionality allows us to use it as an air cooler, fan, or air conditioner, making it adaptable to different needs and weather conditions.

    One feature we really liked was the large 2-gallon water tank. It kept the unit running for hours without needing constant refills. The remote control was handy too, letting us adjust settings from across the room.

    We found the cooling effect to be noticeable in smaller spaces, but it might struggle in larger areas or very hot climates. The unit runs quietly, even on higher settings, which we appreciated during nighttime use.

    The oscillation feature helped distribute cool air evenly, and we could adjust the airflow direction manually. While it’s not a replacement for central AC, we found it to be a good option for spot cooling or supplementing existing cooling systems.

    Overall, we think this AIRTHRYL cooler offers good value for its price point. It’s easy to move around, simple to set up, and does a decent job of cooling small to medium-sized rooms.

    AIRTHRYL Portable Air Cooler
    • ❄️【3 In 1-Air Cooler & Air Conditioner & Fan】With three cooling processes (air/water/ice), this evaporative cooler can be used as an Air Cooler, an Air Conditioner and a Fan. It features 3 modes (Normal/Natural/Sleep) and 3 wind speeds (Low/Medium/High) to offer a wide range of use for any activity. It can absorb the surrounding hot air and cool it down quickly, evaporate the water to release cold air, and create a comfortable space environment for you.
  • CENSTECH 4-in-1 Evaporative Cooler

    9.1

    We recommend this versatile cooler for its efficient cooling, energy savings, and user-friendly features.

    9.1

    We recommend this versatile cooler for its efficient cooling, energy savings, and user-friendly features.

    Pros

    • Multi-functional 4-in-1 design
    • Energy-efficient operation
    • Large water tank for extended use

    Cons

    • Limited cooling in high humidity
    • Not as powerful as traditional AC
    • May require frequent refills in very hot weather

    We recently tested the CENSTECH 4-in-1 Evaporative Cooler and were impressed by its versatility. This unit functions as an air cooler, humidifier, and fan all in one, making it a great choice for dry climates. We found it particularly effective in areas like the Southwest US, where summers can be uncomfortably dry.

    The cooler offers 4 modes and 3 fan speeds, giving us plenty of options to customize our comfort. We liked being able to switch between cooling, sleep, normal, and nature modes. The remote control was handy for adjusting settings from across the room.

    One of the biggest advantages we noticed was the energy efficiency. Using just 65 watts, it’s much more economical than traditional air conditioners. The 2-gallon water tank also impressed us, providing up to 20 hours of cooling on a single fill. We appreciated not having to refill it constantly.

    The 120° oscillation and coverage area of up to 300 sq. ft. worked well in our medium-sized room. While it’s not as powerful as a traditional AC, we found it effective for smaller spaces. The quiet operation at 50 dB was a nice bonus, especially for nighttime use.

    We did notice that the cooling effect wasn’t as strong in very humid conditions. It’s important to keep in mind that this is an evaporative cooler, so it works best in dry climates. In very hot weather, we had to refill the tank more frequently to maintain the cooling effect.

    Overall, we think the CENSTECH 4-in-1 Evaporative Cooler is a solid choice for those looking for an energy-efficient, versatile cooling solution, especially in dry climates. Its ease of use and portability make it a practical option for various settings.

    CENSTECH 4-in-1 Evaporative Cooler
    • ❄️【𝟒-𝐈𝐍-𝟏 𝐄𝐯𝐚𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐀𝐢𝐫 𝐂𝐨𝐨𝐥𝐞𝐫 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐃𝐫𝐲 𝐂𝐥𝐢𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬】CENSTECH Swamp Cooler functions as an Air Cooler, Humidifier, and a Fan. Unlike conventional ACs, the evaporative air cooler provides optimal cooling and humidity, enhancing your living and work spaces without excessive drying, helping to keep skin hydrated. Tailored for areas like the Southwestern US, California, and New Mexico, where summers can be uncomfortably dry.
  • COOLECH 3-in-1 Air Cooler

    9

    We recommend this versatile air cooler for its efficient cooling, quiet operation, and energy-saving features.

    9

    We recommend this versatile air cooler for its efficient cooling, quiet operation, and energy-saving features.

    Pros

    • 3-in-1 functionality (fan, humidifier, air cooler)
    • Quiet operation at 45 dB
    • Energy-efficient with 65W power consumption

    Cons

    • Limited cooling range (250 sq. ft.)
    • Requires regular water refills
    • May not be effective in very humid areas

    We tested the COOLECH 3-in-1 Air Cooler in various settings and were impressed by its performance. The unit’s ability to function as a fan, humidifier, and air cooler makes it a great choice for different cooling needs. We found the 3 speeds and 4 modes offered plenty of options to customize our comfort level.

    The 2.4-gallon water tank is a standout feature. It allowed us to run the cooler for up to 20 hours without refilling. We liked the clear water level indicator, which made it easy to check when a refill was needed. The waterless alert system is a nice touch, beeping when the water runs low and switching to fan mode to prevent damage.

    During our tests, we noticed a significant drop in room temperature, especially when using ice packs in the water tank. The wide-angle air supply covered our 250 sq. ft. test room well. We appreciated the quiet operation, which didn’t disrupt our sleep or work. The remote control and touch panel were user-friendly, allowing easy adjustments from across the room.

    Sale
    COOLECH 3-in-1 Air Cooler
    • ❄【𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐥𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐀𝐥𝐞𝐫𝐭 𝐒𝐲𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐦 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠】Equipped with a NO-water warning system, the room air conditioners will beep to remind you in time when the water level is running low, preventing the risk of damage and ensuring safe operation. Plus, it seamlessly switches to natural wind mode after water depletion, ensuring restful sleep. With this added safety measure, you can have peace of mind and enjoy the gentle breeze without any concerns.
  • AEROZY Evaporative Cooler

    8.7

    We think this portable evaporative cooler is a solid choice for personal cooling in small spaces, but it may not be powerful enough for larger rooms.

    8.7

    We think this portable evaporative cooler is a solid choice for personal cooling in small spaces, but it may not be powerful enough for larger rooms.

    Pros

    • Compact and easy to move
    • Quiet operation
    • Remote control included

    Cons

    • Limited cooling power
    • Needs regular water refills
    • May not work well in humid climates

    We tested the AEROZY Evaporative Cooler in our office for a few weeks. Its 36-inch height and slim design made it easy to place near our desk without taking up much space. The fan was quiet, which we liked for focused work.

    The remote control came in handy for adjusting settings without getting up. We found the 7-hour timer useful for overnight cooling. The 60-degree oscillation helped spread cool air around our workspace.

    On hot days, the cooling effect was noticeable but not dramatic. It worked best when we sat close to the unit. We had to refill the water tank often, which was a bit of a hassle. In very humid weather, we didn’t notice much cooling at all.

    For personal use in dry climates, this cooler could be a good fit. But for larger rooms or humid areas, you might want to look at other options. We think it’s best suited for small, dry spaces where you need a bit of extra cooling.

    AEROZY Evaporative Cooler
    • 🌬️ Impressive Height and Velocity: The AEROZY Tower Fan stands 35 inches tall with a powerful 25 ft/s airflow, ideal for cooling larger spaces efficiently and quickly.
  • Whynter ARC-14S Portable AC

    8.7

    We think the Whynter ARC-14S is a top choice for cooling larger rooms up to 500 square feet, thanks to its powerful performance and versatile features.

    8.7

    We think the Whynter ARC-14S is a top choice for cooling larger rooms up to 500 square feet, thanks to its powerful performance and versatile features.

    Pros

    • Cools large spaces well
    • Quiet operation
    • Built-in dehumidifier

    Cons

    • Heavy and bulky
    • Takes up floor space
    • Needs window access for venting

    We tested the Whynter ARC-14S in a 400 square foot room during a hot summer day. It cooled the space quickly and kept it comfortable. The unit runs quietly, which we liked for bedroom use. We barely noticed it was on while sleeping.

    The dual-hose design worked better than single-hose units we’ve tried. It didn’t create negative air pressure in the room. This meant less hot air got pulled in from outside. The built-in dehumidifier was a nice bonus. It kept the air feeling less muggy on humid days.

    Setting up the window kit took some work, but wasn’t too hard. The unit is heavy, so moving it takes some muscle. But the casters roll smoothly on hard floors. The control panel is simple to use. We liked having a remote to adjust settings from across the room. While it’s not small, we think the cooling power is worth the floor space for many people.

    Sale
    Whynter ARC-14S Portable AC
    • Award-Winning Portable AC Unit: Awarded Good Housekeeping's 2024 "BEST OVERALL PORTABLE AIR CONDITIONER," this powerful yet quiet portable air conditioner provides powerful cooling over large areas up to 500 sq. ft.
  • TEMEIKE Portable Cooler

    8.6

    We think this 4-in-1 evaporative cooler is a good choice for spot cooling in dry climates, but it won’t replace a true air conditioner.

    8.6

    We think this 4-in-1 evaporative cooler is a good choice for spot cooling in dry climates, but it won’t replace a true air conditioner.

    Pros

    • Multiple modes and speeds for customized cooling
    • Large water tank for extended use
    • Quiet operation at 50 dB

    Cons

    • Limited cooling power compared to AC units
    • Not effective in humid environments
    • Requires regular maintenance

    We tested the TEMEIKE portable cooler in various settings. It worked best in our dry, hot garage where it provided a nice cooling effect. The 2-gallon water tank lasted about 18 hours on low speed, which was handy.

    The cooler has 4 modes and 3 fan speeds. We liked the sleep mode for nighttime use. It was quiet enough not to disturb our sleep. The remote control made it easy to adjust settings from across the room.

    One downside we noticed was its limited cooling power in larger spaces. It works well for personal cooling or small areas up to 300 square feet. But it won’t cool an entire house like a central AC system.

    We appreciated the easy setup. Just add water and plug it in. The ice packs helped boost the cooling effect on really hot days. Keep in mind that this is an evaporative cooler, so it works best in dry climates. In humid areas, its cooling ability drops off.

    Overall, we think this TEMEIKE cooler is a decent choice for spot cooling in the right conditions. It’s more energy-efficient than an AC unit and provides some relief from the heat. Just don’t expect it to match the cooling power of a true air conditioner.

    TEMEIKE Portable Cooler
    • ❄️【𝟒-𝐈𝐍-𝟏 𝐄𝐯𝐚𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐀𝐢𝐫 𝐂𝐨𝐨𝐥𝐞𝐫 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐃𝐫𝐲 𝐂𝐥𝐢𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬】TEMEIKE Swamp Cooler functions as an Air Cooler, Humidifier, and a Fan. Unlike conventional ACs, the evaporative air cooler provides optimal cooling and humidity, enhancing your living and work spaces without excessive drying, helping to keep skin hydrated. Tailored for areas like the Southwestern US, California, and New Mexico, where summers can be uncomfortably dry.

Buying Guide

When shopping for a windowless air conditioner, we recommend considering a few key factors. Here are the main things to look at:

Cooling Capacity

BTUs (British Thermal Units) measure cooling power. Match the BTU rating to your room size:

Room Size (sq ft)Recommended BTUs
Up to 1505,000-6,000
150-2506,000-8,000
250-3508,000-10,000
350-45010,000-12,000

Energy Efficiency

Look for units with high EER (Energy Efficiency Ratio) ratings. A higher EER means better efficiency and lower electricity costs.

Noise Level

Check the decibel (dB) rating. Lower numbers mean quieter operation. We suggest aiming for units under 60 dB for bedrooms.

Portability

Consider weight and wheel quality if you plan to move the unit. Some models have handles for easier transport.

Drainage Options

Units with self-evaporating technology are convenient. If not available, look for easy-to-access drain ports or hoses.

Extra Features

Some helpful extras include:

  • Remote control
  • Digital display
  • Programmable timer
  • Multiple fan speeds
  • Dehumidifier mode

By focusing on these aspects, we can choose a windowless air conditioner that fits our needs and space.