The best small window air conditioners of 2026, tested and reviewed

These compact air conditioners provide quick relief from the heat without making you break a sweat to get them installed.

No Central Air? No Sweat. These Tested Window Air Conditioners Cool Down Spaces Fast

We got our hands on multiple units and looked for models that are quiet, energy-efficient, and easy to install.

Our best-tested window AC is on sale ahead of Prime Day—and it won’t block your view

Our top window AC pick is easy to install, quiet, and discounted before Prime Day.
New York Magazine

There’s a New Generation of Window AC Units. We Found the Best Ones.

Units with Wi-Fi support can be set to run on a schedule, or integrated with other smart home devices. This often requires installing an app, but some ACs offer Matter support, which allows you to ...
CNET

This Is the Only Window AC I Can Count On to Cool My Two-Story Home All Summer Long

Courtney Johnston led the CNET Money team and worked closely with the consumer insights data team. Before CNET, she worked as a graduate writing instructor at the University of Indianapolis and ...
Good Housekeeping

Window AC or Portable AC? Here's How to Choose the Right One

A room air conditioner can make a sweltering space comfortable again, especially in older homes, apartments, and additions where central air falls short. The bigger challenge is choosing between a ...