As the weather changes, it’s becoming increasingly hotter and humid. It’s becoming harder to sleep and even relax in our homes. One way to escape the sweltering heat is by using an air conditioner. Most state-of-the-art offices and apartment complexes have central air conditioning units installed, and you’ll only need to access your thermostat to set up the required temperature.
On the other hand, some rented units may not even allow you to put up a picture frame, let alone mount a wall air conditioning unit. Moreover, these can be expensive and require professionals to set them up, making them a luxury not everyone can afford.
Portable AC units are a great alternative to wall-mounted ACs if you don’t have access to central air conditioning or face restrictions due to building regulations. Moreover, these are a viable substitute for people who cannot afford ACs for each room, are students who require a cheaper alternative to get through this summer, or those who want to reduce electricity bills.
Portable ACs, unlike their bulky wall-mounted counterpart, are affordable, can be moved from room to room, and are easily stored away when summer ends.
Portable ACs have earned a bad reputation for being loud and inefficient at cooling rooms. This may be because portable ACs use the air inside the room to cool it. It creates a negative pressure in the space, causing hot air from other areas to flow and making it harder to maintain a lower temperature.
However, portable ACs are not all that bad and are recommended by users worldwide. So, to help you navigate the world of portable ACs, our team tested some of the most recommended ACs in the market. Here we have put together a list of the top-rated ACs of 2022 to help you find the portable AC that is perfect for you.
The Top 22 Best Portable Air Coolers in 2022
- ChillWell AC
- Ice House Portable AC
- HydroBoost Portable AC
- Icybreeze
- EvaPolar
- Zero Breeze
- NewAir Portable ACs
- RW Flame Portable ACs
- Sleep Connection Cool Mist Humidifier
- Arctic Box
- IceBox Cordless Air Cooler
- CoolEdge
- CoolMe Pro
- CoolX
- Aero Cool Portable AC
- Williston Force
- NexFan Evo
- Arctic Air Pure Chill
- Sylvane Portable Air Conditioner
- Sion Air Cooler
- UVCooler
- CoolFeel Max
ChillWell AC
ChillWell AC is super easy to set up, and this user-friendly AC works using an evaporative cooling system. It can cool your room and office and even lower temperatures in areas like the kitchen while being more cost-effective than a conventional AC. This cordless AC can run for about 3.5 hours before needing to be recharged. Its compact design supports additional features like a LED light with eight different color modes, a compartment to keep ice cubes, and a turbo cooling option.
The only con we have for this unit is that while the cooling cartilage is easy to access and replace, this needs changing every 1-3 months, depending on your usage. The ChillWell AC currently offers a 55% promotional discount, costing about $89.99 per unit.
Ice House Portable AC
This compact, lightweight, and portable AC supports mood lights and offers twice its competitors’ cooling power with its five different fan speeds. Ice House Portable AC also works as a humidifier and an air purifier. This AC is considerably quieter than other portable ACs due to its advanced brushless motor fan. The setup is reasonably straightforward; add some water before plugging it in.
The only additional cost incurred will be when you have to replace the air filters. Doing so every 6-8 months ensures the maximum efficiency of the unit. It is important to note that the Ice House Portable AC is not designed to cool entire rooms and can only cool your personal space within a distance of 3 ft. This unit retails for $79.99 after a 35% discount.
HydroBoost Portable AC
As one of the chicest portable ACs on the market, this unit will match your interior. This AC is available in three colors with the option of customizing the ODM to fit your aesthetic. The HydroBoost Portable AC can function as a fan, humidifier, and AC.
With its 2000mAH battery and storage space of 300 mL for ice and water, this USB chargeable unit can run for up to 4 hours to deliver adequate cooling. Unlike conventional ACs, it uses no coolants and is more environmentally friendly. The special offer on their website offers the portable AC for $99.
Icybreeze
Most portable ACs use ice and water to blow out cool, wet air, but this unit was custom engineered with coil technology to offer cold, dry air. The Icybreeze can blow out cool, dry air for 6 hours after fully charging it. One of the most desirable aspects of buying this product is its company’s guaranteed lifetime parts replacement.
It can even store ice for up to 7 days as it has a thicker foam layer than other portable ACs. This is perfect for people who avidly camp, fish, or perform other outdoor activities. There are two different models for the Icybreeze, and the starting price is $289.99. The only drawback is that this unit is not very aesthetically pleasing.
EvaPolar
These minimalistic yet stylish evaporative coolers are available in three different models and are easily set up. EvaPolar differ based on energy consumption, cooling power, and additional features like nightlight mode and remote controlling options. Each model is energy efficient, low noise-producing, and can run for a minimum of 3-8 hours.
You can choose between at least two different colors when buying any model. These would be great for around-the-house cooling, work, and outdoor activities. The retail prices vary from $99 – 229 based on which model you get.
Zero Breeze
The Zero Breeze Mark 2 is a proper air conditioner for outdoor activities, trips, and motor vehicles. This portable unit can either be used with a 240 W power supply or function with 24V batteries for a power time of 3-5 hours, weighing 16.5 lbs. Unlike most portable ACs, this requires no water or ice and works with a 24 V micro compressor. Allow a charging time of 6 hours before using to get maximum output. The only downside is that the Zero Breeze Mark 2 retails for about $1499, putting it on the pricer side.
NewAir Portable ACs
Newair offers an assortment of multipurpose ACs that serve as fans, air conditioners, and even space heaters. Most of these can cool or heat up to 500 sq ft of area, making them perfect for the summertime. These NewAir Portable ACs are relatively easy to operate but need to be set up next to a window to allow ventilation.
The ACs can be operated on three different fan speeds as desired. The interface of these ACs is easy to understand and can be used to set up timers and sleep modes to conserve energy and power. These ACs retail for anywhere between $399.99 – 699.99, depending on the features of the chosen model.
RW Flame Portable ACs
RW Flame Portable ACs are a stylish, sleek, and economical option for you. With a quick initial setup in the windows, you can move this AC from room to room and cool 300sqft of space. These ACs also act as amazing dehumidifiers as they can remove almost 4 pints of moisture per hour.
You can use the 12-hour timer, sleep mode, or 24-hour timer to save power and electricity costs. The lower-end model is available for $119.99, while the most expensive one goes for about $459.99.
Sleep Connection Cool Mist Humidifier
Sleep Connection Cool Mist Humidifier is the most affordable product on our lift. This humidifier is small enough to be carried anywhere and retails for $14.99. This humidifier can provide an instant cooling effect from personal uses to car travel by spraying out cold water periodically.
Since dry airways and national cavities are a leading cause of snoring, this humidifier can also help you sleep more peacefully. Just fill the humidifier up, close the lid, and plug it into the power source to experience instant cooling.
Arctic Box
As suggested by its name, the Arctic Box is a powerful portable AC that delivers cool air through evaporative cooling. The device needs to be set up by adding water and plugging it into a power source in an area away from the large objects that may get in the way of its breeze. This unit has five different cooling settings to match your cooling needs. Additionally, the Arctic Box supports seven LED lights making it ideal to use as a nightlight for your children’s bedroom. The Arctic Box can be used for up to 5 hours when fully charged, and its bigger water storage tank needs fewer refills than other portable ACs. This device purifies the air and can be used as a humidifier for those suffering from dry skin. This unit retails for $74.
IceBox Cordless Air Cooler
IceBox Cordless Air Cooler provides arctic temperatures by the evaporating system. The key feature of this device is that it is cordless with a rechargeable battery that is in-built and has a battery life of up to five hours.
With its air-purifying ability and mood lights, IceBox becomes incomparable to other devices on the list. Other features include a water tank for moist, cool air, control over fan speed, and a USB port for charging. The device works with zero noise. It is available online for $80.
CoolEdge
The CoolEdge AC is a compact, all-rounder air conditioning system that is eco-friendly and energy-efficient. The portable device has a rechargeable battery and USB plug-in. In addition, it has adjustable wind speeds of three types and a blade to change the direction of the air.
No specific installation is required, and due to its lightweight design, it can be carried to outdoor picnics in the summers.
The AC works on the hydro-chill technology making it user-friendly. You can add drops of essential oils in water space to turn the AC into an oil diffuser and have a cool and calm effect in summers. The exciting feature of this device is the phone mount that can be used to binge-watch your favorite shows; the AC is noise-proof, so it wouldn’t create an issue while watching.
The only con of this product is that it works best for small spaces, but it is worth it for an affordable price of $79.
CoolMe Pro
CoolMe Pro has three distinct features that make it one of the best portable ACs of 2022: it has water filter papers that can be changed, it gives off freon-free air, and its functions of cooling and purifying it acts as a humidifier. The cooler has angle rotations and a three-speed adjustable fan. Since it is small and weighs around 1kg, it can easily be placed on a desk or side table of your bed. It won’t disturb your sleep as it is noise-proof and has night lights.
It has a rechargeable battery of 5000maAh, which allows it to work for 9-10 hours and can again recharge in 4 hours. The AC is highly cost-effective, and you can easily buy it online for $79.
CoolX
CoolX acts as an air conditioner and humidifier in hot and dry climates, giving out frosty chill breezes in rooms. It is incredibly user-friendly, and the controls are on its console, so it isn’t easy to find a remote to operate it. The device is small yet works best for personal use and can quickly move from one place to another.
The portable AC has adjustable fan speed, ultra-low-noise, and LED features like the other products on this list. In addition, it gives out purified air and protects the user from airborne particles. It efficiently operates on low energy of 2-7 watts and has a water tank that needs to be refilled after 6-8 hours of usage, so once it is filled, you can get an 8-hours of constant sleep in relief. The price of the CoolX air cooler is $79, and you can buy it directly from the manufacturer’s website with free shipping!
Aero Cool Portable AC
Aero Cool Portable AC is a two-in-one device that cools and humidifies the air, making it best for dry climate areas. The air cooler uses evaporative technology, and the water is recycled in the system to give off a more long-lasting cooling effect. The portable AC has five layers of filters, due to which clean air is given off.
In addition to the fundamental features of a portable air conditioner, such as rechargeable batteries, noiseless, long-lasting battery, adjustable fan speeds, and filter, the mini air conditioner offers a hand carrier attached to it elegantly designed to attract the customers. It can be recharged by connecting the USB cable to a laptop or a car battery. The AC is available in the online market for $89.99.
Williston Force
Williston Force is a cost-effective solution on these hot days of summer. The air cooling device is portable and compatible with any small space. The personal air cooler comes with a louver to target the direction of the air. It also acts as a humidifier, and the water curtain is replaceable. One of the product’s key features is its capacity of a 200ml water tank, which makes the device work for a longer time before a refill is needed.
The Williston force air cooler has a 2000mAh battery, consuming less energy but giving the same cooling effect as other devices on the list. It is only available online and can be bought from the maker’s official website for $79.99 with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
NexFan Evo
The next on our list of best portable ACs is the NexFan Evo UV Cooler. The main benefit of buying this cooler is that it is a four-in-one device; it has a fan, works as a purifier with UV filters, and has a water tank that uses ice and water to give off cool and moist air. A night LED light, which makes it a perfect companion at night. The air system is compact and portable, with a USB connection to recharge it. The UV filters enable it to block the dust and toxic particles entering the room.
The additional benefit of buying it: the manufacturer’s site has a 50% discount on the product and free shipping! For further information, you can visit the website and read clients’ reviews who bought the product.
Arctic Air Pure Chill
The Arctic Air Pure Chill uses an evaporative system in which dry air gets moist and cool upon entering the cooler. The air system has the same fundamental features as the other products in this list. It saves energy and space effectively and has movable flaps for targeted air. The humidifier is available for $90 online.
Sylvane Portable Air Conditioner
The range of portable air coolers by Sylvane is vast. It is one of the most reliable brands for air purifiers and humidifiers. They are bigger than most evaporative cooling systems on this list but have the technology of compressors attached to them, so it doesn’t work like a typical fan; instead, it genuinely throws off frosty air like a standard air conditioner.
The cooling systems are available in numerous sizes that can be used in homes and industries. The prices of Sylvane coolers start from $250 and go up with the tank’s size and capacity.
Sion Air Cooler
Sion Air Cooler is another addition to this list built for small spaces but is perfect for personal use. The air cooler consumes a maximum of 4.5 Watts and works perfectly on 5 volts. The cooler comes with a controller for airspeed and gives instant cooling when plugged in.
It is noise-free and highly energy-efficient, which might be why lower electricity bills. The cooler is $89.99, but if you buy it from their official website, you will receive a 50% discount.
UVCooler
We understand that it is not feasible for everyone to install air conditioning units in their homes; however, there must be a solution to feel relief on hot summer days. The UVCooler is available for $79.95 with 50% if bought from the official online store.
The compact and energy-efficient air coolers have a built-in water tank that humidifies the air. The UV technology works against the toxic airborne particles to give the end-user a perfect and safe chilling effect.
CoolFeel Max
One of the innovative inventions of the decade, CoolFeel Max is essential for everyone these days. The device is simple to use on the go. It is a lightweight accessory hung around the neck just like a pair of headphones, but instead of ears, it is placed on the neck.
The body temperature cools down instantly as the button is turned on and cool air breezes touch the neck. It is available for $60 and has a discount of 50% if ordered from the online store. You can use this air cooler while working in the kitchen or burning some calories in this hot weather.
Benefits of a Portable AC
The portable ACs can be used in any personal space, such as a bedroom, dorm, office cabin, or even RVs. The benefits of portable air conditioners are increasing with technological advancements. They are an economic invention of technology at an affordable price range, starting from $79. There is no need to install an HVAC system to use portable ACs.
Due to its portability, it can work off the grid anywhere, like campsites with no electricity, but they would work because most of them run on batteries. These Air Conditioning units are lightweight and easy to carry around. So, if you want to hike up to the mountaintop for camping, this is your best partner.
Other than that, portable ACs have built-in air filtration systems such as UV light and carbon filters, providing cleaner air in humid summers filled with airborne pollutants.
One of the advantages of portable ACs is that you can add ice cubes to make the temperature more chilly, and most water-based systems can give moist air, which is good for the skin.
Types of Systems in Portable ACs
There are three types of air cooler systems in present-day technology:
- Fan-Based Coolers: These coolers work without water and use the humidity in the air to cool down the temperature.
- Evaporative Coolers: Coolers like these are based on the heat transfer phenomenon, i.e., evaporation. Heat transfers from hot air to the water in the water curtain or tank, and hot air cools down as the moisture goes into it.
- Compressor-Based and Exhaust Fan AC Units: These are more expensive and high-class technologies installed in air coolers. Using exhaust fans and compressors to pump the hot air out of the house can instantly lower the temperature.
Checklist For Buying a Portable Air Cooler
Portable ACs are sustainable and energy-saving pieces of technology as they get charged easily by low voltage systems and have a battery time of about half a day. However, while buying a portable AC, some parameters must be taken into consideration, such as:
- Dispensing Ability
- Temperature Ranges
- Levels of BTUs
- Time is taken for cooling
- Size and frequency of maintenance
- Cost and Material used
- Noise factor
- Speed Control for fan
- Battery life and energy consumption
- Type of Air Filtration systems
The most important is the unit warranty you are about to buy. The checklist provided above can help you find the best portable AC for your space, or you can easily select a device from our list of top-rated personal air coolers of 2022.
The Top 22 Best Portable Air Coolers in 2022 Final Word
Personal AC systems have been one of the greatest and most feasible inventions of the time. The systems cater to the needs of all income class households in every capacity. With the affordable price ranges for all, and no additional installations required, people can beat this summer heat easily with air coolers. Try a top portable AC unit above today!