Looking to buy a 5,000 BTU air conditioner?
You are on the right page.
5,000 BTU air conditioners are a good choice for people looking to cool small rooms. They can cover areas up to 150 square feet to help keep people inside cool and dry.
5,000 BTU units are the smallest units on the market. You can find them in both portable and permanent variations.
The portable models are good when you want a mobile solution to keep you cool all around the house.
While the permanent, window or wall-mounted units are more suitable for cooling an office or a particularly hot area of your house.
While we are strongly partial to portable models, you can check out our recommendations for the 8 best 5000 BTU air conditioners below.
What's in This Guide
Contents of This Guide
In this guide we review the best portable and window AC units for a 5,000 BTU (small room) application.
We recommend and review specific models for the most common needs and follow it with a brief buying guide that addresses the factors to consider when buying one.
Best 5,000 BTU Air Conditioners (Window and Portable Units)
- 1Best Overall: MIDEA Easy-Cool
- 2Runner-Up: FRIGIDAIRE FFRA051ZA1 17" Window Air Conditioner
- 3Quietest Unit: AMANA 5,000 BTU Window-Mounted Air Conditioner
- 4Most Energy Efficient: KEYSTONE LCD 5,000 BTU Window Mounted Air Conditioner
- 5Best For An Office: LG 5,000 BTU Window Air Conditioner
- 6Best Budget Pick: TCL 5WR1-A Home Series Window-air-Conditioner
- 7Best Wi-Fi-Connected AC: Friedrich CCF05A10A
MIDEA Easy-Cool
Best Overall
Window AC
15.98 x 15.35 x 12.05 inches
42.3 pounds
2 Fan Speeds:
Heating Mode:
No
FRIGIDAIRE FFRA051ZA1 17" Window Air Conditioner
Runner-up
Window AC
41.2 x 40.8 x 30.2 inches
39.7 pounds
4 Fan Speeds:
Heating Mode:
No
AMANA 5,000 BTU Window-Mounted Air Conditioner
Quietest Unit
Window AC
15.3 x 16 x 12.5 inches
39.7 Pounds
2 Fan Speeds:
Heating Mode:
No
KEYSTONE LCD 5,000 BTU Window Mounted Air Conditioner
Most Energy Efficient
Window AC
16 x 15.4 x 12 inches
42.1 Pounds
3 Fan Speeds:
Heating Mode:
No
LG 5,000 BTU Window Air Conditioner
Best for an office
Window AC
14.38 x 17.31 x 11.13 inches
40 pounds
2Fan Speeds
Heating Mode:
No
TCL 5WR1-A Home Series Window-air-Conditioner
Best Budget Pick
Window AC
15.2 x 15.98 x 12.52 inches
37.7 pounds
4 Fan Speeds:
Heating Mode:
No
Friedrich CCF05A10A
Best Wi-Fi-Connected AC
Window AC
16 x 19 x 13 inches
51 Pounds
3 Fan Speeds:
Heating Mode:
No
1. Best Overall: MIDEA Easy-Cool
The Midea Easy-Cool is an elegant and stylish 5,000 BTU window AC. It can run on seven different temperature settings and two modes of operation.
You can use it to cool down your room or circulate air. This unit has a dB 54-57 rating.
Pros
- Simple and easy to install.
- Seven different temperature settings.
- Comes with all mounting accessories.
- High CEER rating.
- Two-way airflow direction.
Cons
- No dehumidifier mode.
- Lacks an exhaust switch.
Our Review
Best Features
Easy operation
We consider the Midea Easy-Cool the best 5,000 BTU air conditioner for its easy operation.
The unit contains two mechanical rotary dials, one for adjusting the temperature output and the other for mode selection.
It has multi-directional airflow vents that you can adjust for adequate airflow. While the washable filter makes it easy to maintain.
Energy-saving
The Midea Easy-Cool, boasts a high Combined Energy Efficiency Rating (CEER) of 11.0. Meaning it operates over minimum wattage consuming less energy and keeping your energy bills under control.
Limitations and Issues
The biggest limitation of this AC is its lack of dehumidifier mode. You cannot use it to extract excess moisture from your indoor atmosphere.
Specs
Dimensions: 15.98 x 15.35 x 12.05 inches
Weight: 42.3 pounds
Cooling BTUs: 5,000
Coverage Area: 150 square feet
Operation Modes: Cooling and Fan only
Control Options: Mechanical Controls
2. Runner-Up: FRIGIDAIRE FFRA051ZA1 17" Window Air Conditioner
The FRIGIDAIRE FFRA051ZA1 17" Window Air Conditioner is a solid option for cooling any 150 square feet room. It is easy to set up and simple to install.
Plus, you can run it over four fan speeds and seven cooling temperatures.
Pros
- Easy and quick to install.
- Cools and circulates air.
- Multi-directional vents spread cool air evenly.
- Simple to use dials.
- Extra-long power cord makes an extension cord unnecessary.
Cons
- Removing the filter can be a bit awkward.
Our Review
Best Features
Simple Installation
We like this window AC from Frigidaire for its simple installation. All you need is a Phillips screwdriver and you are good to go.
It comes with adjustable side panels that make it easy to fit in most windows. There is also an extra-long cord for operation without extension cords.
User-friendly dials
Another noteworthy feature of this AC is its old-fashioned control knobs. There are two control knobs on this machine, one for temperature adjustment and the other for mode selection.
Each dial is clearly marked with various selections. There are seven temperature and four mode settings for you to choose from.
Limitations and Issues
While this AC is certainly one of the best 5,000 BTU air conditioners out there, some users have complained about it making loud grinding noises after being used for more than a couple of hours.
Specs
Dimensions: 41.2 x 40.8 x 30.2 inches
Weight: 39.7 pounds
Cooling BTUs: 5,000
Coverage Area: 150 square feet
Operation Modes: Cooling and Fan only modes
Control Options: Manual Dials
3. Quietest Unit: AMANA 5,000 BTU Window-Mounted Air Conditioner
The AMANA 5,000 BTU Window-Mounted Air Conditioner is the best 5,000 BTU air conditioner if you prioritize quiet operation.
You can only detect about 40 decibels of noise if you really come near this unit. Plus, the multi-directional air vents make it a solid choice for most buyers.
Pros
- Noiseless.
- Simple installation.
- 8-way directional airflow.
- Low maintenance.
- Removes up to 1.06 pints of moisture per hour.
Cons
- Two fan speeds only.
- No remote control.
Our Review
Best Features
8-way directional Airflow
One feature that makes AMANA Window-Mounted Air Conditioner the best 5,000 BTU air conditioner is its 8-way directional airflow.
It has two air output vents across the top, each moving in four different directions for adequate cooling. You can point them towards a specific room area to cool it quickly.
Simple maintenance
This AC is equipped with a washable and reusable air filter. It improves indoor air quality by trapping various airborne particles.
Once it becomes clogged, you can simply remove and wash it with water to remove the debris. Once dry, reinstall and continue to use.
Limitations and Issues
The only issue we found with this unit is its two fan speeds. It can run on high or low; there is no in-between.
Specs
Dimensions: 15.3 x 16 x 12.5 inches
Weight: 39.7 Pounds
Cooling BTUs: 5,000
Coverage Area: 150 square feet
Operation Modes: Cooling, Dehumidifying, and Fan only modes
Control Options: Mechanical rotary controls
4. Most Energy Efficient: KEYSTONE LCD 5,000 BTU Window Mounted Air Conditioner
The Keystone LCD Window-Mounted Air Conditioner is the most energy-efficient choice for a 5,000 BTU air conditioner.
It is Energy Star rated and offers lots of energy-saving features like sleep mode, energy-saver mode, and a programmable timer.
Pros
- Simple and easy to use.
- Multiple operation modes.
- Noiseless.
- Digital temperature readout.
- Temperature sensing LCD remote control.
Cons
- Instructions could be better.
- Poor draining system.
Our Review
Best Features
Electronic controls
Unlike most window ACs on our list; the Keystone LCD boasts electronic controls.
There are no mechanical rotary dials within this unit. Instead, you have digital controls with a feature-rich remote control for remote adjustment.
Multiple operating modes
We also like this unit for its energy-saving operating modes. It boasts cooling, drying, and fan-only modes like traditional windows AC.
There is an energy-saving mode and a sleep mode for lower efficient energy consumption.
Limitations and Issues
The most common complaint about this Keystone AC is its poorly designed water drainage system.
It does not expel all of the condensates which make their way to the fan causing it to emit strange noises.
Specs
Dimensions: 16 x 15.4 x 12 inches
Weight: 42.1 Pounds
Cooling BTUs: 5,000
Coverage Area: 150 square feet
Operation Modes: Cooling, Dehumidifying, Energy-Saver, Sleep, and Fan only modes
Control Options: Remote and touch-sensitive keys
5. Best For An Office: LG 5,000 BTU Window Air Conditioner
This LG 5,000 BTU Window Air Conditioner is a solid option for an office because of its compact size and user-friendly controls.
It can operate on two fan speeds and nine different temperature settings.
Pros
- Easy to operate.
- Quiet operation.
- Minimalistic design.
- Comes with a complete mounting kit.
- Two-way air directional vents.
Cons
- No exhaust switch is present.
- Lacks the dehumidifier mode.
Our Review
Best Features
Quiet operation
This LG air conditioner made it to our list for its ultra-quiet operation. It emits about 50 decibels of noise on low settings, which is barely audible. And if you set it to operate at high, you'll only hear a gentle hum that is not very irritating.
User-friendly controls
Another good aspect of this unit is its user-friendly controls. It has a single rotary dial that lets you choose between the fan mode and nine cooling options. It also has two buttons.
One is for powering the unit on and off, while the other is for selecting between high and low fan speeds.
Limitations and Issues
This window AC may be the best 5,000 BTU air conditioner for an office, but its lack of dehumidifier mode can be noticeable in areas with high humidity.
Specs
Dimensions: 14.38 x 17.31 x 11.13 inches
Weight: 40 pounds
Cooling BTUs : 5,000
Coverage Area: 150 square feet
Operation Modes: Cooling and Fan only modes
Control Options: Mechanical rotary dial and buttons
The TCL 5WR1-A Home Series Window-air-Conditioner is a great choice for anyone on a tight budget. It is easy to use with mechanical knobs and efficient performance.
Pros
- Heavy-duty construction.
- User-friendly controls.
- Affordable.
- Adjustable vents blow air in eight different directions.
- Quiet operation.
Cons
- 2 fan speeds only.
- No remote control.
Our Review
Best Features
Simple Controls
We included this AC unit in our list of the best 5,000 BTU air conditioners for its affordability and simple controls.
It has two rotary mechanical dials, one for temperature settings and one for mode of operation. You can choose between seven temperature levels as well as high and low cooling and air circulation modes.
Noiseless Operation
One of the best things about this budget-friendly 5,000 BTU air conditioner is its noiseless operation.
It emits about 50 decibels of noise at its lowest speed. You can easily hold conversations with this running in the background.
Limitations and Issues
We have an issue with its two fan speeds. It can either run on high or low, there is no middle ground.
So, keep that in mind during purchase. However, it will get the job done, considering what you’ll be paying to own it.
Specs
Dimensions: 15.2 x 15.98 x 12.52 inches
Weight: 37.7 Pounds
Cooling BTUs: 5,000
Coverage Area: 150 square feet
Operation Modes: Cooling and Fan only modes
Control Options: Mechanical Dials
7. Best Wi-Fi-Connected AC: Friedrich CCF05A10A
The Friedrich CCF05A10A is the best unit for smarthome fans. With its Wi-Fi connectivity feature, you can link it to your home assistant device and operate it with ease. It also supports apps for easy control.
Pros
- Wi-Fi enabled.
- Supports voice commands.
- Energy Star certified.
- Noiseless.
- Simple to set up.
Cons
- Remote control has a limited range.
- Does not remember previous settings.
Our Review
Best Features
Wi-Fi connectivity
This is the best 5,000 BTU air conditioner because of its Wi-Fi support. You can use this feature to synchronize it with your Alexa home assistant and operate it via voice commands.
It is also compatible with the Friedrich Go app that you can download on your smartphone for remote operation.
Multi-directional air vents
The Friedrich CCF05A10A has two airflow vents across the top. They are equipped with louvers, each movable in four different directions.
You can manually adjust these to ensure optimum cooling in the direction of your choosing.
Limitations and Issues
While this Friedrich unit is one of the best 5,000 BTU air conditioners for its Wi-Fi support; it lags behind in its remote-control operation. The included remote is not responsive at all times.
Specs
Dimensions: 16 x 19 x 13 inches
Weight: 51 Pounds
Cooling BTUs: 5,000 BTUs
Coverage Area: Not Specified
Operation Modes: Cooling, Dehumidifying, Money saving, sleep, and Fan only modes
Control Options: Remote, Mobile phone application, voice commands, and soft keys
Buying Guide: 5,000 BTU ACs
What Size Room Can a 5,000 BTU AC Cool?
The best 5,000 BTU air conditioner can efficiently cool areas of about 100 to 150 square feet. This area coverage estimation comes from the Energy Star air conditioner room sizing guide.
They further state that if your room receives direct sunlight, you should increase the capacity by 10%, bringing a 5,000 BTU unit's coverage area to 95 to 135 square feet.
And if the room you want to cool is in a shaded area, you should decrease the cooling capacity by 10%, so the 5,000 BTU AC will cover areas ranging from 110 to 165 square feet.
The cooling capacity is also affected by the number of people inside the room and the room type. However, such adjustments are not relevant for such a small air conditioning unit.
Features That Matter
Since the range of 5,000 BTU air conditioners is vast and varied, you cannot blindly choose any model.
Although these are low-capacity units, you still have to determine the type of AC, ventilation, noise output, fan speeds, etc. Below we have listed all of them so you can make an informed purchasing decision.
BTUs & Room Size
A 5,000 BTU air conditioner generates 5,000 cooling BTUs per hour. This cooling capacity might seem low, but it is enough to cool small areas measuring 150 square feet.
You can use such a unit to cool an office, closet, kitchen, or small bedroom.
So when you are choosing between different models, make sure to pick the one that can efficiently cool your room. Measuring its size beforehand also enables you to make the right choice.
Type of AC
5,000 BTU ACs come in both portable and window variations. And even these two categories are further divided into subcategories. Have a look:
Window - Horizontal
These models encase both the cooling and exhaust components inside their body, with the cooling vents opening into the room and the exhaust vents facing outside.
They come with mounting brackets and pleated curtains to prevent cool air from escaping outside.
Window - Casement/Sliding/Vertical
These are designed to install over horizontal sliding or casement windows. Since such windows are usually vertical, these ACs also feature a vertical design that easily fits inside the window.
Operation-wise, they are similar to horizontal window ACs with cooling vents on the inside and exhaust vents outside the window.
Portable (Vented)
The portable ACs that need a window or some other opening to vent outside are included in this category.
They come with an exhaust hose on the back and a window kit. The kit installs over a window while the hose attaches to it for venting the heat generated by the system.
Ventless / Evaporative
The ventless or evaporative units use the moisture drawn from the air to keep their system cool.
Since the system uses condensate and no heat is generated, these systems are portable and can be easily used as standalone units.
Size of Unit vs. Size of Window
Whether you choose to purchase a portable AC or a window mounting one, you have to keep the size of your window in mind.
For mounting the unit over it, your window should be big enough to fit the AC through. If it is small, the AC will not fit, and if it is too big, you'll need to think of something to seal the gaps.
Similarly, portable air conditioners also need a window to vent the heat. If your windows have an unconventional design or size, you'll need to factor it in before finalizing your purchase.
Installation Kit
Some 5,000 BTU air conditioners come complete with their installation kits; others do not.
The installation kit in window ACs consists of the mounting brackets and frame, while in portable ones, it is the window kit for venting.
Your priority should be an AC that comes with all the installation components. Nobody likes making additional purchases, let alone the entire process of finding compatible components in the first place.
Dual Function (Heat + Cool)
An AC that can cool and heat a room is undoubtedly a must-have. Such a unit keeps your room cool in summer and provides supplemental heat in winter.
While there are not many dual-function AC in the 5,000 BTU range, it is definitely worth your notice if you can find one.
Noise Level
Nobody likes a loud AC. It makes everyday activities like conversing and watching TV very difficult.
If you want to avoid such a situation, look for an AC with a maximum sound output of around 50 decibels.
Fan Speeds
An AC with multiple fan speed support makes your life easier. You can adjust its cool air output to suit your needs and lower the noise and energy bills.
Energy-Saver Mode
The energy-saver mode is your key to reduced energy bills. An AC that can operate on energy-saver mode guarantees efficient performance and savings with controlled fan speed and cooling temperature.
Exhaust Switch
Most window ACs feature an exhaust switch that allows the stagnant indoor air to be replaced by fresh one from outside.
It is typically a slider that opens a small window towards the back of the unit. The fresh air from outside is drawn in, cooled down, and circulated into the room from this window.
Dehumidifier Mode
Almost every AC doubles up as a dehumidifier to draw extra moisture from the air.
While this function is active in the cooling mode, having it separately lets you reduce indoor humidity without investing in a dedicated dehumidifying unit. If you live in a humid area, prioritize this mode of operation.
Remote Control
Being installed in a small 150 square feet room, your AC would not be very far to adjust manually. But with a remote control at hand, you can operate the AC from afar.
Wi-Fi Connectivity
Wi-Fi connectivity is a feature present 8n most modern AC. You can sync the device with your home assistant and use voice commands to control its operations with this function.
Similarly, with Wi-Fi connectivity, you can also control the unit from any part of the world with the compatible mobile phone application.
Programmability & Timers
The convenience of programming the AC to turn off and on at desired times is a true blessing.
You can easily adjust such a unit to turn on and off at desired times, so you come to a cool room, and when you leave, the AC automatically turns off.
Installing a Window AC Unit: Top Tips
Installing a window AC unit is not a very difficult task. Many homeowners have been doing it themselves for a while now. Here is how you can install one yourself:
Window AC Maintenance: What To Focus On
As temperatures start rising, your window AC has to work for longer and longer. To ensure it is performing optimally, you should care for and maintain it properly. Here's how to do it:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most energy-efficient 5,000 BTU air conditioner?
Any 5,000 BTU air conditioner with a high SEER rating is the most energy-efficient air conditioner. Another sign of improved energy-efficiency is the Energy Star logo.
Is a 5,000 BTU air conditioner good?
This depends upon the size of the room you are using it in. A 5,000 BTU AC is most suitable for areas up to 150 square feet. If the area is any bigger, the unit would be insufficient to cool it.
What size room will a 5,000 BTU air conditioner cool?
A 5,000 BTU AC is most suitable for smaller rooms. You can use one to cool rooms measuring up to 150 square feet in size.
Are all 5,000 BTU air conditioners the same?
No, not all 5,000 BTU air conditioners are the same. They come in ductless mini-split, window, and portable varieties.
How much should a 5,000 BTU air conditioner cost?
The cost of a 5,000 BTU AC ranges from $150 to $500. The window ACs tend to cost less, while the portable variations tend to be costlier.
Should I get a 5,000 or 6,000 BTU air conditioner?
That depends upon the size of the area you want to cool. If it measures around 150 square feet, go for the 5,000 BTU unit, and if it measures about 200 square feet, the 6,000 BTU unit would be a better fit.
Is 5,000 BTU enough for a living room?
Since most living rooms measure around 340 square feet, a 5,000 BTU air conditioner is not enough for a living room.
Is 5,000 BTU air conditioner the smallest?
Among the traditional AC range, 5,000 BTU units are the smallest. But you can also find personal AC models with lower cooling output and coverage area.
How Noisy Are 5,000 BTU Air Conditioners?
Because of their lower cooling capacity, the 5,000 BTU ACs tend to be quiet. They produce about 48 to 52 decibels of noise on average.
Does a 5,000 BTU air conditioner use a lot of electricity?
The 5,000 BTU ACs consume less energy than their bigger counterparts. An average 5,000 BTU unit uses about 500 watts of energy when running at full capacity.
What is the difference between a 5,000 BTU vs. 8,000 BTU air conditioner?
An 8,000 BTU AC has a more powerful cooling output suitable for larger, open living spaces. It can cover areas as big as 350 square feet.
How many square feet is a 10×12 room?
A room that measures 10×12 feet in dimensions is about 120 square feet in area.
How many square feet is a 12×12 room?
If your room measures 12×12 feet, it has a square footage of 144 square feet.
How do I find the right size air conditioning unit?
The key to finding the right size air conditioner is knowing the area of the room you want to cool.
Measure the length and height of the room and multiply them with each other to learn about its area. Keep this estimate in mind and choose a unit with compatible cooling output.
Final Verdict: What is the Best 5,000 BTU Air Conditioner?
If you want to cool a small room in your home or office, a 5,000 BTU air conditioner is your best bet.
After carefully assessing the different models available on the market, we believe the MIDEA Easy-Cool is the best 5,000 BTU air conditioner for most small rooms and home offices. It boasts a high CEER rating and user-friendly controls for easy operation.
Our Runner-up is the FRIGIDAIRE FFRA051ZA1 17" AC unit. It is easy to install and provides you with over four fan speeds and seven cooling temperatures.
Lastly, if you want a 5,000 BTU air conditioner that cools while being very quiet, we have the AMANA 5,000 BTU Window-Mounted Air Conditioner. You won’t be able to detect about 40 decibels of noise produced by this unit.
Happy shopping!
