6 Best Portable Air Conditioners Under $450 in 2026
We compared six Portable Air Conditioners Under $450 on cooling capacity, room size, noise and controls, from DREO and BLACK+DECKER to HUMHOLD and LG.
By Daniel Brooks
Updated November 3, 2026
Portable air conditioners under $450 reach the upper-middle tier: quieter smart units, models with heat and 14,000 BTU machines for big rooms. We compared six from DREO, BLACK+DECKER, HUMHOLD and LG on capacity, room size, noise and controls. Every unit was listed under $450 when we checked; prices change, so confirm on the product cards.
To browse every model we cover, visit our Single-Hose Portable Air Conditioners page.
All Products Compared
| Product | Best For | Cooling | Room Size | Noise | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DREO 515S Portable Air Conditioner | Overall | 12,000 BTU ASHRAE (8,000 DOE) | Not listed | 45 dB | Drainage-free, app and voice |
| BLACK+DECKER 12,000 BTU Smart Portable Air Conditioner with Heat | With heat | 12,000 BTU (8,350 SACC) | Up to 550 sq ft | 54 dB | 10,500 BTU heat, Wi-Fi |
| HUMHOLD 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner | Large rooms | 14,000 BTU ASHRAE (10,000 SACC) | 550 to 700 sq ft | 48 dB sleep | Self-evaporating, 24H timer |
| BLACK+DECKER 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner with Heat | Heat and large rooms | 14,000 BTU (12,000 BTU heat) | Up to 700 sq ft | 53 dB | Follow Me remote |
| LG 8,350 BTU (DOE) Portable Air Conditioner | LG smart | 8,350 BTU DOE (12,000 ASHRAE) | Up to 350 sq ft | 48 dB | ThinQ, Alexa, Google |
| LG 7,000 BTU (DOE) 10,000 BTU (ASHRAE) Portable Air Conditioner | Small rooms | 7,000 BTU DOE (10,000 ASHRAE) | Up to 300 sq ft | 50 dB | Auto swing, filter reminder |
| Award | Product | WikiCooling Score About WikiCooling ScoreThe WikiCooling Score is our own rating from 0 to 10, based on the criteria described on our How We Review page. It reflects research, not laboratory measurement, and is never influenced by manufacturers, retailers, or affiliate commissions. Learn more › | |
|---|---|---|---|
DREO 515S Portable Air Conditioner
|
8.0/10 | Buy | |
| Best Value |
BLACK+DECKER 12,000 BTU Smart Portable Air
|
7.8/10 | Buy |
| Best Overall |
HUMHOLD 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner
|
8.3/10 | Buy |
| Best Premium |
BLACK+DECKER 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner
|
8.0/10 | Buy |
| Best Budget |
LG 8,350 BTU (DOE) Portable Air Conditioner
|
8.1/10 | Buy |
LG 7,000 BTU (DOE) 10,000 BTU (ASHRAE)
|
7.5/10 | Buy |
DREO 515S Portable Air Conditioner
The DREO 515S is a 3-in-1 portable air conditioner that cools, fans, and dehumidifies. With 12,000 BTU ASHRAE (8,000 BTU SACC) capacity, it suits rooms up to 150 square feet. Its drainage-free system in cool mode under 90% humidity reduces maintenance, and the 45 dB noise level makes it suitable for bedrooms. Smart app and voice control add convenience.
Pros
- Quiet 45 dB operation suitable for bedrooms
- Drainage-free in cool mode under 90% humidity
- Smart controls with app, voice, and remote
- 3-in-1 cooling, fan, and dehumidifier functions
- Cools rooms up to 150 square feet
Cons
- No inverter compressor for variable speed
- Heavy at 62.9 pounds may require two people
- Drainage-free limited to cool mode and low humidity
BLACK+DECKER 12,000 BTU Smart Portable Air
This 4-in-1 portable unit from BLACK+DECKER provides cooling, heating, dehumidification, and fan modes. With 12,000 BTU ASHRAE (8,000 BTU SACC) cooling and 10,500 BTU heat, it covers rooms up to 550 sq. ft. Wi-Fi connectivity and voice control add convenience, while the included window kit simplifies installation.
Pros
- 4-in-1 operation (cool, heat, dehumidify, fan)
- Wi-Fi and voice control compatible
- Includes window installation kit
- Follow Me remote thermostat
- Compact and portable with casters
Cons
- No inverter compressor for variable speed operation
- Manual drain for dehumidifier mode
- 54 dB noise level may be audible
HUMHOLD 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner
This portable AC from HUMHOLD delivers 14,000 BTU of cooling power (10,000 SACC) for spaces up to 700 square feet. It combines cooling, dehumidifying, and fan modes, with a self-evaporating system that reduces manual draining in cool mode. The quiet sleep mode operates under 48 dB, and the auto-swing function distributes air evenly, making it suitable for bedrooms, living rooms, and offices.
Pros
- Cools up to 700 sq. ft.
- Quiet sleep mode under 48 dB
- Self-evaporating in cool mode
- Auto swing for even airflow
- Easy installation with included kit
Cons
- Heavy at 65 pounds
- Requires continuous drain in dry mode
- Noise up to 56 dB in cooling mode
BLACK+DECKER 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner
This 4-in-1 portable unit combines cooling, heating, dehumidifying, and fan functions for rooms up to 700 sq. ft. The Follow Me remote lets the remote act as a thermostat for precise temperature control. Auto water evaporation reduces the need to drain buckets, making it convenient for larger spaces.
Pros
- Heats and cools up to 700 sq. ft.
- Follow Me remote for precise temperature control
- Auto water evaporation reduces draining
- Easy window install with included kit
- Four modes for year-round use
Cons
- Heavy at 64.7 lbs for moving
- Noise level of 53 dB may be noticeable
- SEER rating of 2.6 indicates lower efficiency
LG 8,350 BTU (DOE) Portable Air Conditioner
This LG portable air conditioner uses LG ThinQ technology for smartphone and voice control via Alexa and Google Assistant. It cools medium rooms up to 350 square feet with 8,350 BTU (DOE) capacity and operates quietly at 48 dB. The 3-in-1 system provides cooling, fan, and dehumidifier modes for year-round comfort.
Pros
- Smartphone and voice control
- Quiet 48 dB operation
- 3-in-1 cooling, fan, and dehumidifier
- Easy-rolling casters for portability
- Auto restart after power outage
Cons
- Reciprocating compressor, not inverter
- Heavy at 60.4 pounds
- No heating mode
LG 7,000 BTU (DOE) 10,000 BTU (ASHRAE)
This LG portable air conditioner offers both ASHRAE and DOE ratings, cooling rooms up to 300 sq. ft. with quiet operation at 50 dB. Its 3-in-1 modes, auto swing vent, and remote control make it a versatile choice for medium-sized rooms. Suitable for those seeking an easy-to-install portable AC with basic smart features like a 24-hour timer and auto restart.
Pros
- Quiet operation at 50 dB
- Covers up to 300 sq. ft.
- Auto swing vent for even airflow
- Washable filter with reminder
- Easy mobility with rolling casters
Cons
- Single-hose design may reduce efficiency
- No inverter for variable speed cooling
- Heavy at 56.4 pounds
Top 3 Portable Air Conditioners Under $450 Reviewed
#1 DREO 515S Portable Air Conditioner: Best Overall
Why We Picked It
The DREO 515S is a 12,000 BTU ASHRAE (8,000 BTU DOE) smart portable air conditioner that runs drainage-free in cool mode and lists a 45 dB noise level.
DREO says its noise isolation system cuts compressor and turbulence noise to 45 dB, which makes it the quietest unit on this list. It cools up to 16 feet from the cabinet and holds a set temperature between 61 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit. It works as an air conditioner, a fan and a dehumidifier, and you can run it from the touch panel, the remote, the app or by voice through Alexa and Google Assistant. The cabinet measures 14.37 by 17.32 by 28.13 inches, it draws 1,500 watts on a standard 115 volt outlet, and it uses R-32 refrigerant with no inverter.
Key Specifications
- Cooling: 12,000 BTU ASHRAE, 8,000 BTU DOE
- Noise: 45 dB
- Modes: Cool, Fan, Dry
- Controls: Touch panel, remote, app, Alexa, Google Assistant
- Power: 1,500 watts, 115 volts
- Size: 14.37 x 17.32 x 28.13 inches
- Weight: 62.9 pounds
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
|
Things to Consider
Drainage-free operation applies to cool mode in low humidity, so keep a drain hose handy in a damp room. It is not an inverter unit, and the compressor cycles on and off.
Best For
This portable air conditioner is best for bedrooms and home offices where low noise and smart control matter most.
Check the current price and availability of the DREO 515S Portable Air Conditioner on Amazon.
Read our full DREO 515S Portable Air Conditioner review.
#2 BLACK+DECKER 12,000 BTU Smart Portable Air Conditioner with Heat: Best with Heat
Why We Picked It
This BLACK+DECKER is a 12,000 BTU (8,350 BTU SACC) portable air conditioner that also gives 10,500 BTU of heat, with Wi-Fi app and voice control, for rooms up to 550 sq ft.
It is the only smart unit here that heats, so it covers summer and the shoulder seasons in one cabinet. It works as an air conditioner, a heater, a dehumidifier and a fan. The app is available on iOS and Google Play, and the unit takes voice commands through Alexa and Google Assistant. The Follow Me remote acts as a thermostat, so the unit cools or heats the spot where you sit. The cabinet measures 16.5 by 14.06 by 27.09 inches, it lists 54 dB and draws 1,400 watts, and the filter is washable.
Key Specifications
- Cooling: 12,000 BTU, 8,350 BTU SACC
- Heating: 10,500 BTU
- Coverage: Up to 550 sq ft
- Noise: 54 dB
- Power: 1,400 watts, 115 volts
- Controls: Wi-Fi app, voice, Follow Me remote
- Size: 16.5 x 14.06 x 27.09 inches
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
|
Things to Consider
The 8,350 BTU SACC rating is the real-world figure, so treat it as a bedroom or medium room unit. Dehumidifier mode needs a manual drain.
Best For
This portable air conditioner is best for bedrooms and medium rooms that need heat in cool weather as well as smart control.
Check the current price and availability of the BLACK+DECKER 12,000 BTU Smart Portable Air Conditioner with Heat on Amazon.
#3 HUMHOLD 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner: Best for Large Rooms
Why We Picked It
HUMHOLD rates this portable air conditioner at 14,000 BTU ASHRAE and 10,000 BTU SACC for spaces of 550 to 700 sq ft, with a sleep mode under 48 dB.
It has the largest coverage of the group. It works as an air conditioner, a dehumidifier and a fan, and you can set 61 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit in cool mode. HUMHOLD lists a dehumidifier capacity of 80 to 96 pints per day, a 1 to 24 hour timer, auto swing and a self-evaporating system that handles condensate in cool mode. The kit includes the window installation parts. It draws 1,250 watts on a 115 volt outlet and uses R-32 refrigerant with no inverter.
Key Specifications
- Cooling: 14,000 BTU ASHRAE, 10,000 BTU SACC
- Coverage: 550 to 700 sq ft
- Noise: Sleep mode under 48 dB, up to 56 dB in cooling
- Power: 1,250 watts, 115 volts
- Modes: Cool, Dry, Fan
- Timer: 1 to 24 hours
- Weight: 65 pounds
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
|
Things to Consider
The 56 dB figure in cooling mode is well above the 48 dB sleep setting, so expect noise at full output. It has no inverter and no smart control.
Best For
This portable air conditioner is best for large bedrooms, living rooms and open spaces up to 700 sq ft.
Check the current price and availability of the HUMHOLD 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner on Amazon.
Other Models Worth Considering
BLACK+DECKER 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner with Heat. BLACK+DECKER lists 14,000 BTU of cooling and 12,000 BTU of heating for rooms up to 700 sq ft, with a Follow Me remote and auto water evaporation. It lists 53 dB and weighs 64.7 pounds.
LG 8,350 BTU (DOE) Portable Air Conditioner. LG rates this smart unit at 8,350 BTU DOE and 12,000 BTU ASHRAE for rooms up to 350 sq ft. It works with LG ThinQ, Alexa and Google, lists 48 dB, draws 1,005 watts and weighs 60.4 pounds.
LG 7,000 BTU (DOE) 10,000 BTU (ASHRAE) Portable Air Conditioner. LG lists 7,000 BTU DOE and 10,000 BTU ASHRAE for rooms up to 300 sq ft at 50 dB. It has an auto swing vent, a washable filter with a reminder light and an LCD remote, and weighs 56.4 pounds.
What to Expect from Portable Air Conditioners Under $450
A portable air conditioner is a complete refrigeration unit on wheels. It pulls warm room air across a cold coil, sends the cooled air back into the room and pushes the heat it removed outside through an exhaust hose that runs to a window. Because the hot side and the cold side share one cabinet indoors, a portable unit works harder than a window unit of the same rating, but it needs no permanent installation and can move from room to room.
For more options, see our guides to dual-hose portable air conditioners and single-hose portable air conditioners. The product cards above show the current price for each model.
How to Choose Portable Air Conditioners Under $450
ASHRAE vs SACC Ratings
Portable AC boxes often show two numbers. The larger ASHRAE figure is measured under ideal lab conditions and does not account for the heat that leaks back from the exhaust hose. The smaller SACC or DOE figure reflects real-world portable use. Compare units by their SACC or DOE rating when a listing gives one, and treat the ASHRAE number as a ceiling.
Match the Rating to the Room
A 14,000 BTU ASHRAE unit with a 10,000 BTU SACC rating suits a large bedroom or a living room, while a unit with a 7,000 BTU DOE rating belongs in a small room or office. Oversizing a portable unit costs more to run and adds noise without cooling a small room any better.
Check the Noise
Every portable AC has its compressor in the room with you, so noise matters. Look for a decibel figure on the listing, a sleep mode that slows the fan and dims the display, and an inverter compressor if you can find one. Quiet settings usually mean less airflow.
Controls and Smart Features
Nearly every portable AC now includes a remote, a timer and several modes such as cool, dry and fan. Smart models add Wi-Fi control from a phone app, schedules and voice control through Alexa or Google Assistant. A remote with its own temperature sensor helps the unit cool the spot where you sit rather than the air right around the cabinet.
Weight and Moving It
Units in this range weigh between 56 and 65 pounds, and they roll on casters. Plan the route before you buy if you will carry one up stairs between seasons.
How We Evaluate Portable Air Conditioners Under $450
We rank these units on manufacturer specifications and listing details: cooling capacity, the room size the maker lists, noise, controls, setup, power use and price. We kept only new, in-stock units and left out accessories, renewed listings, color duplicates and listings with too little data. For this list we kept only units listed under $450 and weighed capacity, room size and noise first.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I trust the ASHRAE or the SACC rating?
Use the SACC or DOE rating to compare portable units. It accounts for real-world heat losses and is always lower than the ASHRAE number printed on the box.
Does a portable air conditioner need a window?
Yes, in almost every case. The exhaust hose has to send the heat outside, usually through a window, a sliding door or a wall vent. A unit with nowhere to vent only moves heat around the room.
How much power does a portable air conditioner use?
Larger units use more power, and running time matters as much as size. Energy saver modes, timers and sleep modes all reduce the daily total.
Is a single hose portable AC good enough?
For bedrooms, offices and moderate climates, yes. Dual hose units cool faster in very hot weather and large rooms, but single hose models are lighter, cheaper and simpler.
Final Verdict
The DREO 515S Portable Air Conditioner is the best Portable Air Conditioner Under $450 for most people, with 45 dB operation and app and voice control. For heat, choose the BLACK+DECKER 12,000 BTU Smart Portable Air Conditioner with Heat, and for large rooms, the HUMHOLD 14,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner.
About the author
Daniel Brooks is a home cooling editor at WikiCooling, covering window, portable, through-the-wall and mini-split air conditioners, fans, and dehumidifiers. He researches cooling capacity, energy efficiency, noise levels, installation requirements, and buyer feedback to help homeowners choose the right unit for their room size, climate, and budget.