If you have been searching for the best 10,000 BTU air conditioners to beat the summer heat, you are in the right place!
A portable AC unit can be an excellent investment for those who do not have a central air conditioning system.
It is versatile as you can move it from room to room according to your convenience or invest in a window AC to install in a room you spend the most time in.
This guide covers the 10 best 10,000 BTU air conditioner units you can use, including portable and window AC models. We aim to save your time and money and help you find the right AC unit for your needs.
What's in This Guide
Contents of This Guide
In this guide, we review the 10 best portable and window AC units for a 10,000 BTU (for rooms up to 500 square feet) application.
We recommend and review specific models to address the needs of those needing 10,000 BTU models and follow it with a brief buying guide that goes over the numerous factors to consider when buying the best 10,000 BTU air conditioner.
Best 10,000 BTU Air Conditioners
- 1Best Overall: MIDEA MAP10S1CWT
- 2Runner-Up: TOSOT Window Air Conditioner
- 3Quietest Unit: hOmeLabs 10,000 BTU
- 4Most Energy Efficient: LG LW1017ERSM
- 5Best For an Office: Honeywell HL10CESWK
- 6Best Portable AC: BLACK+DECKER BPACT10WT
- 7Best Ventless / Evaporative AC: HESSAIRE MC18M
- 8Best AC + Heater Combo: Whynter ARC-14SH
- 9Best Budget Pick: Shinco SPF-10C
- 10Best Wi-Fi-Connected AC: Friedrich Chill Premier
MIDEA MAP10S1CWT
Best Overall
3 Modes
Cooling Area
200 sq. ft.17.1 x 13 x 28.3 inches
67.9 pounds
one-year Warranty
TOSOT Window Air Conditioner
Runner-Up
3 Modes
Cooling Area
450 sq. ft.21.4 x 22.8 x 15.8 inches
65 pounds
one-year Warranty
hOmeLabs 10,000 BTU
Quietest Unit
4 Modes
Cooling Area
450 sq. ft.21.5 x 19.76 x 15.16 inches
64 pounds
two-year Warranty
LG LW1017ERSM
Most Energy Efficient
3 Modes
Cooling Area
450 sq. ft.22.2 x 23.6 x 15 inches
74 pounds
one year Warranty
Honeywell HL10CESWK
Best For an Office
3 Modes
Cooling Area
350 to 700 sq. ft.18.9 x 15.7 x 31.3 inches
65 Pounds
Five-year Warranty
BLACK+DECKER BPACT10WT
Best Portable AC
3 Modes
Cooling Area
150 sq. ft.16.5 x 11.5 x 26 inches
52.9 pounds
one-year Warranty
HESSAIRE MC18M
Best Ventless / Evaporative AC
2 Modes
Cooling Area
500 sq. ft.20 x 10 x 28 inches
16 pounds
one-year Warranty
Whynter ARC-14SH
Best AC + Heater Combo
4 Modes
Cooling Area
500 sq. ft.16 x 19 x 35.5 inches
80 pounds
one-year Warranty
Shinco SPF-10C
Best Budget Pick
3 Modes
Cooling Area
300 sq. ft17.4 x 13.4 x 32.7 inches
61.6 pounds
one-year Warranty
Friedrich Chill Premier
Best Wi-Fi-Connected AC
3 Modes
Cooling Area
400 to 500 sq. ft18 x 20 x 13 inches
64 pounds
three-year Warranty
1. Best Overall: MIDEA MAP10S1CWT
Are you looking for a feature-packed air conditioner that is tough to beat? The MIDEA unit is equipped with smart connectivity, sleep mode, energy-saving mode, etc.
It is the perfect personal Air conditioning unit as it comes with tires attached, so you can move it from room to room according to convenience.
Pros
- Installation is a breeze.
- Removes excess humidity from the environment.
- Easy-to-read display and backlit remote.
- All functions can be accessed by phone.
Cons
- Draining the absorbed water is not an easy job.
Our Review
Best Features
Installation Kit
You get an instructional manual, a 5 ft. hose, and brackets with this unit. You will not require any additional tools to install the unit.
You simply need to attach the hose to the windows with the brackets and turn the AC on. This entire procedure takes a few minutes, and anybody can do it.
Fan Speeds and Modes
It has three modes – Cooling, Dehumidifying, and Fan only. It is the perfect investment for those living in hot and humid environments as it not only keeps the surroundings cool but is also capable of removing excess moisture.
Wi-Fi Connectivity
Along with features like an easy-to-read display and backlit remote, it also offers smart features of any modern AC like Wi-Fi connectivity.
You can operate it through your smartphone via the Midea Air app or control the unit through your Google Home or Alexa device.
Limitations & Issues
Draining the moisture is a bit of a hassle as it does not come with a removable container.
Instead, you have to use a bucket to empty it once the non-removable tank is filled, making a tedious and time-consuming effort that could've been avoided with better design.
Specs
Dimensions: 17.1 x 13 x 28.3 inches
Weight: 67.9 pounds
BTUs: 10,000 BTU
Warranty: One-year
Voltage: 115V
2. Runner-Up: TOSOT Window Air Conditioner
The TOSOT windows air conditioners combine the efficient and effective cooling of a conventional windows AC and the versatility of a modern unit to give you the best of both worlds.
It has a modern and sleek design with streamlined panels. Moreover, it is equipped with valuable features like multiple fan speeds, dehumidifying mode, and a 24-hour timer.
Pros
- Energy-efficient performance.
- Adjusts cooling according to the environment.
- Sleek and modern design.
- Combines the usability of a fan, dehumidifier, and cooler.
Cons
- Poorly written user manual.
Our Review
Best Features
Fan Speeds
This unit offers a versatile range of modes and features to personalize your cooling experience.
It has a cool dehumidifier and fan-only option. It also offers 3 fan speeds, a swing function, 24h timer, a night light option, etc.
Energy Saver Mode
This unit equips an R32 refrigerant which has a smaller effect on global warming. Furthermore, it has an energy-star certification which means it operates efficiently.
Remote Control
TOSOT windows ac features an intuitive digital display and comes with remote control. It has a Smart Temperature Control option which uses the thermostat present on the remote to get an idea of the environment and adjust the temperature accordingly.
Limitations & Issues
It operates with a loud noise, so it is not likely the best choice for light sleepers.
You can get around the loud noise by operating it on low fan settings. Also, the user manual of this unit is poorly written with vague instructions.
Specs
Dimensions: 21.4 x 22.8 x 15.8 inches
Weight: 65 pounds
Warranty: One year
BTUs: 10,000 BTU
Voltage: 110V
3. Quietest Unit: hOmeLabs 10,000 BTU
Window ACs generally tend to have a bit of a reputation for being noisy while working. However, the hOmelabs 10,000 BTU AC is not the case for this unit.
Compared to its window AC counterparts, this unit is the quietest of them all. It is equipped with a sleep feature and low noise technology to ensure a peaceful time.
It also offers an energy-efficient operation and is energy-star rated.
Pros
- Comes with all necessary installation tools.
- Highly versatile with features like sleep, eco, dry, etc.
- Offers an energy-efficient operation.
- Low-noise and peaceful operation.
Cons
- Controls could be more intuitive.
Our Review
Best Features
Noise Level
This unit has a noise level ranging from 54 to 59 dB, which is considerably less than most window units that operate at 60+ dB.
It is equipped with low noise technology and a sleep mode to ensure a quiet operation making it the perfect addition to your bedroom, living space, or nursery.
Programmability and Timers
hOmelabs offers four different modes you can choose from – Cooling, Auto, Fan, and Dry. Here's what each does:
Limitations & Issues
Many users find that the buttons on the control panels are not responsive, and they stop working overtime. Also, the remote control only works well if pointed straight at the unit.
Specs
Dimensions: 21.5 x 19.76 x 15.16 inches
Weight: 64 pounds
BTUs: 10,000 BTU
Warranty: Two years
Voltage: 115V
4. Most Energy Efficient: LG LW1017ERSM
LG is a household brand known for its top-quality electronics, and the LG LW1017ERSM is no different. If your current AC costs too much to run, this is the perfect alternative. It has an energy star rating, saving you money on the electricity bills.
Pros
- Energy-efficient operation.
- Easy to clean and maintain.
- It offers multiple fan speeds to choose from.
- Intuitive and user-friendly controls.
Cons
- Tricky installation.
- Does not support voice command.
Our Review
Best Features
Energy-Saving
Like other LG products, this AC also has a high energy star rating, which consumes power efficiently. This will be reflected in your electricity bills.
Remote Control
This unit has a user-friendly control panel and remote design, making it intuitive. A check filter reminder on the control panel blinks if the filter needs to be replaced.
Programmability & Timers
You can adjust the airflow according to personal preference by choosing the three different fan settings.
It also has a timer option which you can set to the hours after which the unit will automatically shut off, so you do not have to worry about it running throughout the night or getting up to close it.
Limitations & Issues
Users complain that they cannot access the unit through their Google Home or Alexa device. Plus, LG LW1017ERSM's Wi-Fi connectivity is slow.
This unit is large and requires quite a bit of assembling, plus the instructions are hard to follow. This makes the unit tricky and time-consuming to assemble.
Specs
Dimensions: 22.2 x 23.6 x 15 inches
Weight: 74 pounds
BTUs: 10,000 BTU
Warranty: One-year
Voltage: 115V
5. Best For an Office: Honeywell HL10CESWK
Improve focus and productivity guaranteed with the Honeywell MN10CES WK in your office space.
It has a sleek and small build that does not take up much space and a quiet & efficient operation to ensure a peacefully chilled environment.
Pros
- Small and portable design.
- Easy to install and disassemble.
- Energy-efficient operation.
- Equipped with dual filters to improve air quality.
Cons
- Might not dehumidify well.
Our Review
Best Features
Installation Kit
This unit comes with all the necessary pieces required for installation, and no additional paraphernalia or tooling is required. Installing it takes just a few minutes and is relatively straightforward.
Fan Speeds
This unit allows you to choose between three fan settings and offers other modes like sleep, timer, and self-evaporation.
The sleep mode offers a preset 10-hour program that gradually increases the temperature at fixed intervals.
Noise Level
Honeywell HL10CESWK operates with little to no noise as it is equipped with a dual-motor that reduces noise levels. At its highest setting, it produces no more than 52 decibels.
Limitations & Issues
The water collection tank of this unit is smaller than a pint. It cannot hold much water, and it is not for those looking to dehumidify a humid environment.
Specs
Dimensions: 18.9 x 15.7 x 31.3 inches
Weight: 65 pounds
BTUs: 10,000 BTU
Warranty: Five years
Voltage: 115V
6. Best Portable AC: BLACK+DECKER BPACT10WT
With the BLACK+DECKER BPACT10WT air conditioning unit, you get the convenience of a portable AC but the effective and efficient cooling of a window AC unit.
It has a compact design that barely takes up any floor space but is feature-packed and capable of ensuring a comfortable cooling experience.
Pros
- Quick and straightforward installation.
- Small and compact design which is easy to store.
- Versatile 3-in-1 functionality of a cooler, dehumidifier, and fan.
- Perfect to work in small areas of 150 sq. ft.
Cons
- Noisy operation.
Our Review
Best Features
Programmability & Timer
The sleep mode controls the temperature at night to prevent excess energy consumption.
Meanwhile, the timer lets you set the number of hours after which the AC will shut off its compressor on its own to prevent energy wastage.
Fan Speeds
You can control the unit's airflow and personalize it to your preference. It offers three fan settings to choose from and an auto fan setting that adjusts the speed according to room temperature.
Limitations & Issues
Compared to other portable AC units, BLACK+DECKER is quite noisy. Consumers complain that its operation gets noisier over time, which may be concerning to some.
Specs
Dimensions: 16.5 x 11.5 x 26 inches
Weight: 52.9 pounds
BTUs: 10,000 BTU
Warranty: One-year
Voltage: 115V
7. Best Ventless / Evaporative AC: HESSAIRE MC18M
If you live in an environment that mostly remains hot and dry, an evaporative AC may be an excellent investment.
The Hessaire MC18M is an excellent one to consider. It humidifies and cools areas using evaporated water instead of refrigerators and is completely ventless.
Pros
- Can adjust humidity between 50% and 90%.
- Energy-efficient operation.
- Equipped with a large water tank for storage.
- Small and portable construction.
Cons
- Noisy operation.
- Low-grade plastic construction.
Our Review
Best Features
Dehumidifier
Using the electronic control panel or remote control, you can set the humidity anywhere between 50% and 90% depending upon your preference.
Energy-Saver Mode
An evaporative AC unit like the Hessaire MC18M can save 50% electricity compared to a standard AC unit.
Furthermore, they do not use any refrigerant to cool the space, preventing the release of harmful, ozone-depleting chemicals.
Limitations & Issues
This unit makes a lot of noise as it operates, which is hard to get used to. This will not be the best purchase if you are a light sleeper or looking for a low-noise operation.
Also, it is made from low-grade plastic, which may be susceptible to easy damage.
Specs
Dimensions: 20 x 10 x 28 inches
Weight: 16 pounds
BTUs: ~10,000 BTUs
Warranty: One-year
Voltage: 110V
8. Best AC + Heater Combo: Whynter ARC-14SH
The Whynter ARC-14SH offers four-in-one functionality (fan, heater, cooler, and dehumidifier) and can be used year-round. It is pricey but, given its practical usage, worth the investment.
Pros
- Sleek and modern design.
- Quiet and peaceful operation.
- Features dual-filters to improve air quality.
- Offers highly versatile and four-in-one functionality.
Cons
- The drain pan fills too quickly.
Our Review
Best Features
Noise Level
It operates with little to no noise, making it perfect for bedrooms, nurseries, or living rooms where you want peace. Plus, it is easy to install and is equipped with an automatic restart option so that the unit will restart on its own after a power outage.
Dual Function (Heat + Cool)
You can use this unit year-round. There is no need to invest in a separate heater or cooler as the Whynter ARC-14SH does it all.
Limitations & Issues
Consumers noticed that they frequently needed to empty the tank in the heat functionality mode as it filled too quickly.
Specs
Dimensions: 16 x 19 x 35.5 inches
Weight: 80 pounds
BTUs: 14,000 BTU
Warranty: One year
Voltage: 115V
9. Best Budget Pick: Shinco SPF-10C
If you want an excellent 10,000 BTU air conditioning unit on a budget that does not compromise on cooling and features, you are at the right place. The Shinco SPF-10C is affordable and effectively cools a 300 sq. ft area.
Pros
- User-friendly design.
- Quick installation process.
- Affordable.
- Quiet operation.
Cons
- Poorly written manual make installation difficult.
Our Review
Best Features
Installation Kit
This unit comes with an exhaust hose and window kit, and no additional tools are required to set it up. A window is necessary to work, and you can set up this unit within 10 minutes.
Programmability & Timers
This unit is an air conditioner, fan, and dehumidifier. You get 3 fan speed settings to choose from, and Shinco SPF-10C has a swing mode that can better circulate the air throughout the room. The timer mode is used to set a timer to shut the unit off after several hours.
Limitations & Issues
The instructions in the user manual are vague and uninformative. It does not help you navigate through the features or installation of the unit.
Specs
Dimensions: 17.4 x 13.4 x 32.7 inches
Weight: 61.6 pounds
BTUs: 10,000 BTU
Warranty: One year
Voltage: 120V
10. Best Wi-Fi-Connected AC: Friedrich Chill Premier
This excellent window AC unit offers built-in Wi-Fi control through the convenience of your phone.
You can turn on your AC and set your preferred temperature without even being in the room through the FriedrichGo app.
Pros
- Easy to install.
- Customizable cooling experience.
- Comes with remote control for user convenience.
- Features washable filter and check filter indicator light for timely maintenance.
Cons
- Quite noisy even at the lowest fan setting.
Our Review
Best Features
Wi-Fi Connectivity
You can download the Friedrich mobile app for free and use it to adjust the modes, set timers and temperature, and adjust fan speeds from the convenience of your phone.
The app is user-friendly and intuitive and can be accessed through a phone, tablet, or computer.
Installation Kit
All materials needed for the unit's installation come with it, including the screws and brackets. The installation is a breeze and can be done in a few minutes.
Fan Speeds
You can customize the airflow according to your preference by choosing between the three fan speeds and eight airflow options.
Friedrich Chill Premier has impressive wide air vents with movable louvers that provide eight airflow options. It also has a fan-only option to distribute and circulate air better.
Limitations & Issues
Even at the lowest fan speed, most users find it loud. This limits the convenient applications of this particular model.
Specs
Dimensions: 18 x 20 x 13 inches
Weight: 64 pounds
BTUs: 10,000 BTU
Warranty: Three years
Voltage: 110V
Buying Guide: 10,000 BTU ACs
This buying guide will discuss the features to consider when looking for the best 10,000 BTU air conditioners and the different types of air conditioners available in the market.
What Size Room Can a 10,000 BTU Window AC Cool?
The cooling capacity is the first factor to consider when choosing an AC unit, and it is measured in British thermal units or BTUs.
Do you have your eye on a nice 10,000 BTU window AC and wonder whether it will be enough to cool your space?
The cooling capacity of the AC is impacted by the type and model of the unit. A standard 10,000 BTU window AC unit can cool 450 to 500 sq. ft.
This could include a large bedroom, a common kitchen/dining area, or even an average-sized living room.
Features That Matter
Here are the features that you need to consider when searching for the best 10,000 BTU air conditioner.
BTUs & Room Size
The cooling capacity or power of an AC is measured in BTUs, and it is an essential aspect to consider. The BTU capacity will depend upon the room size you need to cool.
To cool a 450 to 500 sq. ft. area, you need 10,000 BTU units. If you plan to cool multiple rooms, use the area of the largest room as a reference and select a unit appropriate for cooling it. It will cool smaller rooms effectively as well.
It is essential to mention that getting more BTUs is not always better. A higher BTU capacity than you need will cost you more and be energy inefficient and make your room humid.
Therefore, invest in an AC unit suitable for the room size – not more and not less.
Type of AC
Here are the most common types of Air conditioning units you will encounter
Window - Horizontal
Window ACs are permanently installed in the window frame of your room. Some parts of the unit are inside the room, while the rest are outside.
They are a popular choice as they do not take up any of your floor plans and cool a larger room more efficiently than a portable air conditioner.
Window - Casement/Sliding/Vertical
If you have a vertical window, a conventional window AC unit will not work for you. This is where vertical or casement window ACs come into the picture.
They are designed to fit a sliding or more vertical window space. They operate on the same principle as a standard window AC.
Portable (Vented)
Portable ACs are designed to move from space to space. Vented portable ACs have a hose on the back of the unit and need to be connected to a window sill for ventilation.
However, this installation procedure is simple and takes only a few seconds.
Ventless / Evaporative
A standard portable Air conditioner uses refrigerant to cool a space and offers adjustable temperature, a dehumidifying function, etc.
A ventless portable AC does not rely on refrigerant to cool. It is most suitable for dry and hot areas.
Size of Unit vs. Size of Window
It is paramount to consider the size of the window you plan to install the AC unit.
Measure the window and check the unit's dimension before buying it to make sure the air conditioner is the right size to install in the window.
Installation Kit
The air conditioning unit you buy should have all the equipment required for its installation. This includes an easy-to-understand manual, screws, L-brackets, etc.
You should not have to buy the screws or brackets on your own, as the added investment or chance of getting the wrong sized screws would make installation a hassle.
Dual Function (Heat + Cool)
If the winter is particularly chilly in your locality, you may also have to invest in a heating unit.
This could be avoided by having a unit with heating and cooling modes. Having dual functionality in an air conditioning unit is convenient.
Noise Level
All air conditioning units make some noise because of the fans spinning. Your air conditioning unit will be the loudest at its highest fan setting.
If you're looking for a unit for a bedroom, invest in a unit with a low noise feature or one that operates at a low noise level. You can also try using it at the lowest fan setting.
Fan Speeds
Air conditioners that offer multiple fan speeds and swing settings are more versatile than others as they allow you to adjust the temperature according to your needs.
Most air conditioning units offer three to four fan settings – low, medium, and high.
Energy-Saver Mode
You should opt for an AC that has a good energy efficiency rating and is equipped with an energy saver feature.
Energy saver mode will reduce the power consumption of the AC unit by turning the circulation fan and exhaust fan off in case the compressor is not on.
An EER rating is the ratio of cooling output and energy usage, and it determines how energy efficient the AC is. An energy rating of 10 of 12 is considered good.
Exhaust Switch
The moisture needs to be drained out somehow. A self-evaporative option or exhaust switch lets the unit expel the moisture absorbed through the window.
If there is too much humidity, you may still need to drain the reservoir manually. However, it is an excellent option in average weather, saving time and effort.
Dehumidifier Mode
A dehumidification function is an absolute must if you live in a highly humid area.
Your AC unit will focus more on removing moisture from the environment than cooling the room with this feature selected.
Remote Control
It can be pretty tedious to change the fan temperature manually. A remote control allows you to configure settings and choose your preferred one from the comfort of your couch or bed.
Wi-Fi Connectivity
Wi-Fi-enabled AC units have gained massive popularity over the years a. This feature allows you to connect and control your air conditioner from your smartphone.
You can also control it through voice commands from your ALEXA or Google home device.
Programmability & Timers
A timer function turns off the AC automatically after a set number of hours. It can be handy if you do not want the AC to run throughout the night after you sleep.
Additional features like sleep mode adjust the room temperature to help you sleep better and keep the noise levels at the lowest.
Installing Window AC Unit
Here’s what you should keep in mind when installing a Window AC unit:
Window AC Maintenance
It is crucial to regularly maintain and clean your window AC unit to ensure it works efficiently. Here are a few maintenance tips:
Frequently Asked Questions
What size room will a 10,000 BTU air conditioner cool?
A 10,000 BTU air conditioner can cool a 450-500 sq. ft. space. However, this will differ according to the type and model of the air conditioner.
For example, a 10,000 BTU portable air conditioner will only cool a 200 sq. ft area even though it has the same 10,000 BTU rating as window air conditioners.
How good is a 10,000 BTU air conditioner?
A 10,000 BTU air conditioner is an excellent investment for cooling a 450-500 sq. ft. space.
It can efficiently cool an average-sized living area or a living area/kitchen combo. It will also perfectly cool medium to large-sized bedrooms.
Does higher BTU use more electricity?
Yes, the more BTUs your air conditioner makes, the higher its energy consumption will be, so choosing a unit with the appropriate BTU rating for your room is crucial.
How much does running a 10,000 BTU air conditioner per hour cost?
The cost of running a 10,000 BTU air conditioner depends on your local electricity rates, wattage used per hour, and the time you run the unit for.
The average electricity rate of $0.13 kWh, and an average 10,000 BTU air conditioner has 850 wattages per hour. It would cost you $0.11 to run it per hour.
You can calculate the exact cost for your unit using his formula:
Cost per day=kWh X (wattage/1000) X Hours run per day.
Calculating cost using this formula and considering the previous example:
Cost= ($0.13) X (850/1000) X (8 hours).
The cost for running the AC per day is $0.88.
How many BTUs do I need to cool my house?
The BTUs needed will depend upon the area that needs to be cooled. Check the following table to understand better
Area to be cooled (in sq. ft.) | BTU capacity needed |
250-300 | 7,000 |
450-550 | 7,000 |
550-700 | 14,000 |
700-1000 | 18,000 |
1400-1500 | 24,000 |
2000-2500 | 34,000 |
Does more BTU mean colder rooms?
It is not better to have excessive BTU capacity as it might cool the room faster but will leave it humid.
On the other hand, having a lower BTU capacity than needed will not cool the room and waste energy.
This is why choosing a unit with a suitable BTU capacity for a particular space is necessary.
What is the quietest 10,000 BTU air conditioner?
Most air conditioners have a noise level greater than 50 dB, so anything less than that is considered quiet in AC units.
On our list, the hOmelabs 10,000 BTU window AC is built with low-noise technology and a sleep mode to ensure quiet operation.
These are good features to look for if you're looking for a quiet operating air conditioner.
How many square feet will a 10,000 BTU air conditioner cool?
Depending on the model and AC type, a 10,000 BTU air conditioner will cool a 400 to 500 sq. ft. space effectively.
How energy-efficient are 10,000 BTU units?
This will depend on their energy-efficient rating. A 10,000 BTU window AC is more energy-efficient than a 10,000 BTU portable AC.
This is because windows units have a 9.5 EER rating, whereas portable units, on average, are rated 8.5 EER.
Final Verdict: What is the Best 10,000 BTU Air Conditioner?
We believe the MIDEA MAP10S1CWT unit to be the best 10,000 BTU air conditioner for most people who need to cool a small or medium-sized room - including a bedroom or a home office.
It has a small and portable design that you can take from room to room depending on your cooling needs.
Furthermore, this unit has a dehumidifying function and fan-only operation alongside a cooling setting, making it a highly versatile product.
