Shopping for an air conditioner that can cool medium-sized rooms of up to 250 square feet?
You are at the right place.
The 6000 BTU window ACs and portable air conditioners recommended and reviewed below can effectively cool most mid-sized rooms like home offices, media rooms, kitchens, dining rooms, and larger bedrooms and master suites.
Most 6000 BTU air conditioners come in portable and window unit designs.
Portable units are useful if you want one unit you can move around during the day and night and you don’t want to obstruct a window or deal with the installation process.
Window units are more efficient and quiet, in general.
What's in This Guide
Contents of This Guide
In this guide we review the 8 best 6,000 BTU portable ACs and window ACs for a consumer home or small office setting.
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 a 6,000 BTU air conditioner.
Best 6,000 BTU Air Conditioners (Window & Portable Units)
Disclaimer: All links below go to Amazon.com
- 1Best Overall: MIDEA MAW06R1BWT
- 2Runner-Up: LG LW6017R
- 3Quietest Unit: Keystone KSTAW06CE 6000 BTU Air Conditioner
- 4Most Energy Efficient: Emerson Quiet Kool EARC6RE1
- 5Best For An Office: Friedrich Chill CP06G10B
- 6Best Portable AC: Danby
- 7Best Budget Pick: Frigidaire FFRA0611R1
- 8Best Wi-Fi-Connected AC: Friedrich B07QCQD2T7
MIDEA MAW06R1BWT
Best Overall
Window AC
16.02 x 18.54 x 13.39 inches
49.3 pounds
3 Fan Speeds
Heating Mode:
No
LG LW6017R
Runner-up
Window AC
14.38 x 17.31 x 11.13 inches
39.6 pounds
3 Fan Speeds
Heating Mode:
No
Keystone KSTAW06CE 6000 BTU Air Conditioner
Most Energy Efficient
Window AC
18.5 x 15.7 x 13.4 inches
45.1 pounds
3 Fan Speeds
Heating Mode:
No
Emerson Quiet Kool EARC6RE1
Quietest Unit
Window AC
18.58 x 15.59 x 13.31 inches
43.4 pounds
3 Fan Speeds
Heating Mode:
No
Friedrich Chill CP06G10B
Best for an office
Window AC
20.88 x 18.38 x 14 inches
60 pounds
3 Fan Speeds
Heating Mode:
No
Danby
Best Portable AC
Portable AC
12.8 x 12.52 x 24.21 inches
41.4 pounds
2 Fan Speeds
Heating Mode:
No
Frigidaire FFRA0611R1
Best Budget Pick
Window AC
15.5 x 18.5 x 13.44 inches
42 Pounds
2 Fan Speeds
Heating Mode:
No
Friedrich B07QCQD2T7
Best Wi-Fi-Connected AC
Window AC
15.62 x 18.62 x 13.38 inches
51 Pounds
3 Fan Speeds
Heating Mode:
No
1. Best Overall: MIDEA MAW06R1BWT
The MIDEA MAW06R1BWT is our favorite 6000 BTU air conditioner due to its impressive functionality and affordable price.
Five different modes, a remote control, and a bright LED display make it user-friendly.
In addition, it’s relatively easy to install in window mounts.
Pros
- It can be easily installed and mounted to an existing window frame.
- Remote is very responsive.
- Quiet operation.
- It takes only 10 to 15 minutes to cool any room.
- Eco mode helps reduce billing costs.
- Affordable price
Cons
- No installation instructions.
- It is only suited for wooden window frames instead of aluminum ones.
Our Review
Best Features
Installation Kit
The MIDEA MAW06R1BWT is our top pick partly due to its ease of installation. This window AC comes with an installation kit containing all mounting accessories.
You can easily mount it to any wooden frame that measures 23 x 36 x 15.5 inches.
Remote Control
This AC comes with its own LED remote control that can be used to change settings from across the room. You can easily switch between various modes, including EcoSave and SleepWell.
Limitations & Issues
The biggest drawback of this AC is the absence of precise temperature control. You can only choose different modes but cannot pick precise temperatures.
Specs
Dimensions: 16.02 x 18.54 x 13.39 inches
Weight: 49.3 pounds
Cooling BTUs: 6000
Coverage Area: 250 square feet
Operation Modes: Cooling, fan only, dehumidification, EcoSave, and SleepWell.
Control Options: LED remote
2. Runner-Up: LG LW6017R
The LG LW6017R is our second-favorite 6000 BTU air conditioner due to its low noise, 3 cooling modes plus an energy saver mode.
This 6000 BTU air conditioner can efficiently cool down rooms measuring between 150 and 250 square feet.
Pros
- Lightweight unit that is easy to install.
- Noiseless operation.
- 24-hour auto on/off timer.
- Cools down the area effectively.
- Has a handy remote.
Cons
- Instructions are not as clear.
- Flimsy plastic lever for controlling ventilation blades.
Our Review
Best Features
Noise Level
The LG LW6017R is a super-quiet air conditioner suitable for bedrooms and even crib rooms. It produces just 52 dB of noise which is inaudible to most people.
Fan Speeds
This AC has 3 cooling speeds, 3 fan speeds, and an energy-saving function.
You can opt for Low, Mid, or High fan speeds based on need. You control these speeds via the remote control that comes with the unit. You can also set the temperature precisely.
Limitations & Issues
Some customers have complained that the unit can make grinding sounds after a couple of hours.
Continuous use, loose fan blades, and rusting may cause the unit to create more noise. So, keeps your ACs maintained.
Specs
Dimensions: 14.38 x 17.31 x 11.13 inches
Weight: 39.6 pounds
Cooling BTUs: 6000
Coverage Area: 250 square feet
Operation Modes: 3 cooling speeds, energy saver mode, and 3 fan speeds.
Control Options: Remote control
3. Quietest Unit: Keystone KSTAW06CE 6000 BTU Air Conditioner
The super-quiet Keystone KSTAW06CE is a window AC that fits most standard-sized windows and is easy to install.
The unit comes with a 6.5-foot-long power cord and has a "Follow Me" feature that converts the remote into a portable personal thermostat to increase energy efficiency.
A variety of modes and a SEER rating of 12.2 is what lands this AC on our list of the Best 6000 BTU air conditioners.
Pros
- Energy-efficient function due to Eco mode, timer, and sleep modes.
- Quiet operation of 51.9 dB.
- Has an LED display panel with buttons.
- Easy to install.
- The auto-restart function switches the AC on using previous settings in a power outage.
Cons
- Will not fit narrow windows.
- Not the best at cooling rooms larger than 250 square feet in size.
Our Review
Best Features
Dehumidifier Mode
The Keystone KSTAW06CE AC has a dehumidification mode to keep your room cool and dry when turned on.
The dehumidification mode will remove about 1.5 pints of moisture from the air every hour. The best part is that the unit produces very little noise that is not very noticeable while it functions.
Remote Control
The Keystone KSTAW06CE remote control is an addition to the LED panel on the unit that allows the user to control AC functions.
The remote can be turned into a thermostat for increased cooling and energy efficiency by using the "Follow Me" function.
Three fan speeds, sleep mode, energy saver, 24-hour timer, and dehumidification modes can all be switched on and off using the remote.
Limitations & Issues
The only limitation of this unit is the need for an exact window frame size. If your window frame is even slightly smaller, installing this unit will become difficult or entirely impossible.
Specs
Dimensions: 18.5 x 15.7 x 13.4 inches
Weight: 43.4 pounds
Cooling BTUs: 6000
Coverage Area: 250 square feet
Operation Modes: 3 fan speeds, dehumidification, Energy saver, and Sleep mode.
Control Options: LED display and remote control.
4. Most Energy Efficient: Emerson Quiet Kool EARC6RE1
The Emerson Quiet Kool EARC6RE1 boasts quiet, almost noiseless operation and is exceptionally energy-efficient.
The unit helps cut energy costs and protects the environment with its notable EER of 12.2 and Energy Star certification.
This AC keeps your room cool and dry through its dehumidification mode.
The included remote control and four operating modes make this appliance useful in almost any setting.
Pros
- 12.2 EER rating & Energy Star certified.
- Built-in 24-hour timer.
- ECO function reduces electricity costs.
- 1-2-5 warranty.
- Almost noise-free operation (55 db).
Cons
- Not the most durable.
- Moisture collects at the bottom of the unit and can be difficult to drain.
Our Review
Best Features
Energy-Saver Mode
Emerson Quiet Kool EARC6RE1 made it to the best 6000 BTU air conditioners list due to its energy efficiency and noise-free function.
The ECO mode ensures the AC turns off after a while to help save electricity. Furthermore, the unit has an EER rating of 12.2 and is also Energy Star certified.
Programmability & Timers
The 24-hour timer lets you control when the AC should be turned on and off. The unit not only has a cooling mode, but it can also dehumidify the room and run on a fan-only setting.
All of these features can be easily controlled via remote control.
Limitations & Issues
The biggest drawback is the absence of proper vents and hoses. The condensed water usually accumulates at the bottom of the unit and is quite challenging to remove.
Specs
Dimensions: 18.58 x 15.59 x 13.31 inches
Weight: 43.4 pounds
Cooling BTUs: 6000
Coverage Area: 250 square feet
Operation Modes: Cooling mode, dehumidification, fan-only, automatic, Eco function, and Sleep function.
Control Options: Remote control
5. Best For An Office: Friedrich Chill CP06G10B
The Friedrich Chill CP06G10B is one of the best 6000 BTU air conditioners for an office due to its energy efficiency and remote control option.
It has 3 cooling speeds and various other options for flexible control. These units are suitable for small offices measuring up to 250 square feet.
Pros
- Energy Star certified.
- Comes with its own remote control.
- Antimicrobial and antibacterial filters are included.
- Noise-free operation.
Cons
- Slightly difficult to assemble.
- Not the most durable unit out there.
Our Review
Best Features
Remote Control
Unlike most other window ACs that need to be controlled manually, this one comes with its own remote control.
The digital control panel is a plus. The remote allows the user to program a 24-hour timer, control 3 fan-only speeds, 3 cooling speeds, and a four-way airflow.
Noise Level
At 60 decibels, the Friedrich Chill CP06G10B may not be the quietest AC unit on this list, but it operates silently enough to not distract you from daily office work.
Limitations & Issues
The only limitation of this fantastic AC is its build quality.
It is not as durable or long-lasting compared to other units on this list. Timely maintenance is a must with this one, as well.
Specs
Dimensions: 20.9 x 18.4 x 14 inches
Weight: 60 pounds
Cooling BTUs: 6000 BTU
Coverage Area: 250 square feet
Operation Modes: Cooling and fan-only.
Control Options: Digital remote.
6. Best Portable AC: Danby
The Danby unit is the best 6000 BTU portable AC, in our opinion. It has an LED display and remote control which makes it convenient to use and user-friendly.
A dehumidification mode helps control humidity levels. This powerful unit cools rooms up to 250 square feet in size. You will need access to an open window or an exhaust outlet outside to use it correctly.
Pros
- Four rolling casters aid portability.
- Comes with its own remote control.
- All accessories are included.
Cons
- No heating option.
- Plastic wheels could have been of higher quality.
Our Review
Best Features
Fan Speeds & Modes
The unit has 2 fan speeds, air conditioning mode, and a dehumidification option. These can be controlled via the control panel or remote control.
The dehumidification is further aided by a continuous draining pipe. You can also run the unit on fan only.
Installation Kit
The Danby portable unit is perfect for newbies as it comes with all installation accessories. With your purchase, you will get an air filter, trim kit, grilles, tubing and hoses. This unit is a good option for RVs.
Limitations & Issues
While the wheels are sturdy enough, the overall quality could have been better. Be careful if you plan to move this AC unit across uneven terrain or past a lot of corners.
Specs
Dimensions: 12.8 x 12.5 x 24.2 inches
Weight: 41.4 pounds
Cooling BTUs: 6000 BTU DOE
Coverage Area: 250 square feet
Operation Modes: Cooling, dehumidification, 2 fan modes.
Control Options: LED control panel and digital remote.
7. Best Budget Pick: Frigidaire FFRA0611R1
The Frigidaire FFRA0611R1 is a 6000 BTU window AC that anyone on a tight budget will appreciate.
Even though this unit does not have a dehumidification mode, it does offer 2 cooling and fan speeds.
This window AC is perfect for keeping 250 square feet rooms and offices cool.
The washable filter ensures the air in the room is clean and pure.
Pros
- It is an affordable unit.
- Prevents bad odour.
- Low-startup energy reduces billing costs.
- Has its own remote control.
Cons
- No Energy Star rating.
- No dehumidification mode.
Our Review
Best Features
Fan Speeds
This AC has 2 cooling and 2 fan speeds. Even though the unit has no dehumidification option, it supports eight directional airflow so that cool air can be blown to specific parts of any room.
Remote Control
Tbis Ac comes with its own remote control and window mounting kit. It's user-friendly and a good, low-budget option.
Limitations & Issues
The issue with the Frigidaire FFRA0611R1 AC is an absence of the dehumidification mode, added cooling/fan speeds, basic top vents, and no energy star rating.
Specs
Dimensions: 15.5 x 18.5 x 13.44 inches
Weight: 42 pounds
Cooling BTUs: 6000 BTU
Coverage Area: 250 square feet
Operation Modes: Cooling and fan-only.
Control Options: Remote control.
8. Best Wi-Fi-Connected AC: Friedrich B07QCQD2T7
The Friedrich B07QCQD2T7 unit is the final product on our list of the best 6000 BTU air conditioners.
This unit made it on our list due to its Wi-Fi connectivity settings and ease of use. This quiet 55 dB unit can be controlled using your smartphone, Amazon Alexa and Google Home. It is also easy to install and is Energy Star certified.
Pros
- Fast and efficient cooling.
- Durable unit.
- AC is Energy Star certified.
- It can be connected to Alexa and Google Home.
- It can be controlled via voice commands and remote control.
Cons
- The remote control is slow to respond.
- App and remote functions are different.
Our Review
Best Features
Wi-Fi Connectivity
The Wi-Fi connectivity feature of the Friedrich B07QCQD2T7 makes it stand out among the other 6000 BTU air conditioners.
You can control the unit using an App on your smartphone while you are at home or away.
You can also connect your unit to Google Home or Amazon Alexa to control it via voice commands. You can easily set timers, control temperature, and various other settings using Wi-Fi.
Energy-Saver Mode
Friedrich B07QCQD2T7 is Energy Star certified with an EER of 12.1. It is eco-friendly and can reduce billing costs. The R-410A refrigerant used in this AC and recyclable packaging make it an even more environmentally-friendly product.
Limitations & Issues
The Wi-Fi controls of this unit are tricky to set up. The remote control is not as responsive, and the functions of both the remote and App functions differ.
Some users have also reported the unit produced grinding sounds after continuous use.
Specs
Dimensions: 15.62 x 18.62 x 13.38 inches
Weight: 51 pounds
Cooling BTUs: 6000 BTU
Coverage Area: 250 square feet
Operation Modes: Cooling, sleep, and fan-only.
Control Options: LED control panel, Wi-Fi control, and remote.
Buying Guide: 6,000 BTU ACs
What Size Room Can a 6,000 BTU Window AC Cool?
A 6000 BTU air conditioner can cool down rooms, offices, studios, and spaces that measure something between 150 and 250 square feet.
A window AC can cover an area of 200 to 250 square feet, while a portable air conditioner will work for spaces between 150 and 200 square feet.
6000 BTU units are great for bedrooms and small studies. A regular bedroom in a house usually measures 219 square feet, so a window unit should work well.
An apartment bedroom is usually 132 square feet, so a portable 8000 BTU ((5300 BTU, 2017 SACC Standard) will be better.
The best 6000 BTU air conditioner should work as promised, but a few factors might require you to purchase more power. These include furniture, sunlight, number of people, and insulation.
Features That Matter
There are several features that you need to keep in mind before selecting the best 6000 BTU air conditioner for your room or office.
Features such as fan speeds, noise output, connectivity, modes, and portability all come into play.
BTUs & Room Size
The BTU of any unit defines the cooling capacity per hour. A 6000 BTU air conditioner can generate 6000 cooling BTUs each hour to cool a 250 square feet room.
A 12 by 12-foot room can be cooled down by a portable unit easily, but a 6000 BTU window AC is more suitable for a 13 by 13-foot room.
Type of AC
A 6000 BTU air conditioner can be purchased as a portable AC or window-mounted unit. Both of these are further divided into 4 other types that you might want to consider:
Window - Horizontal
Horizontal window ACs are perfect for windows that open horizontally. These are regular windows with window flaps that open and close like doors but horizontally.
Horizontal window ACs come with a complete installation kit and mounting brackets so that you can fix your unit into place. The front of your unit will be inside the room, while the exhaust will face outwards.
Window - Casement/Sliding/Vertical
Casement/sliding/vertical ACs are used with vertically sliding doors and windows. These windows and doors open and close vertically like a regular door or slide from side to side.
An AC suited for a casement window will come with an installation kit. The mounting will be similar to a horizontal window AC with the cooling portion inside the room and exhaust outside.
Portable (Vented)
Portable or Vented ACs have a vertical hose that allows the unit to dispose of heat. It is essential to ensure that the hose fits appropriately and is located at the back.
This will ensure that heat is not let back inside the room and the hose pipe down does not become a hindrance.
Ventless / Evaporative
Not all ventless or evaporative air conditioners are literally without vents. While some have no vents, others have a window kit and hose pipe that comes with the unit.
These units work without eliminating heat and use a pool of water to create condensation.
This is released into the room for an instant cooling effect. Ventless ACs can be used as standalone units with no pipe or duct.
Evaporative or swamp coolers use the exact mechanism but have a pipe that needs to be connected to an outlet, so they are not exactly as portable.
Size of Unit vs. Size of Window
You must always measure your window and consider mounting bracket size and insulation before deciding whether a particular unit will fit your window. It is also important to note whether your window is horizontal or vertical.
Another thing you might want to consider is sliding doors. A sliding door can easily mount a Casement Window AC if you have no suitable windows.
Installation Kit
The best 6000 BTU air conditioner will come with a proper installation kit. Whether a window AC or a portable unit, a sound installation kit will make all the difference.
Ideally, you should not have to purchase anything extra, and only equipment such as screwdrivers or drilling machines may be required. The kit should have all mounting brackets, screws, and insulation material.
Dual Function (Heat + Cool)
If you live in a region where cooling down your room during summers is as essential as heating it during winters; you might want to purchase a dual-function unit.
Such units act as heaters and cooling units and cover you all year round.
Make sure to research the cooling BTUs and heating power before making your purchase.
Noise Level
A unit with low noise operation is best since you might want to install your AC in your bedroom. The suitable noise output is about 50 dB, which is low enough to go unnoticed.
Fan Speeds
Varying fan speeds allow you to control the amount of air blown out of your AC. You can use these with or without the cooling mode on most air conditioners.
Energy-Saver Mode
If you want to avoid high bills, then you might want to consider Energy Star ratings and EER for the AC you are going to invest in.
The Eco or Energy Saver modes are usually present in such units. These allow you to run your unit using very little electricity.
Exhaust Switch
An exhaust switch lets fresh air from outside into the room and simultaneously removes the stuffy air inside the room.
Dehumidifier Mode
This feature is a must for regions where it is not only hot but also humid. The dehumidification mode helps keep the inside of your room dry and free from excess moisture.
It is also ideal for those that have pets that do not fare well in humid conditions.
Remote Control
The remote control is a necessary tool to help you control your unit, even if you are far away.
The best 6000 BTU air conditioner will have a proper control panel and functional remote control for added ease.
A good remote will have all the necessary functions to control your AC and should be able to make the AC work instantaneously, even from far away.
Wi-Fi Connectivity
Wi-Fi connectivity is the cherry on top. This feature allows users to control the AC via an App on their smartphones.
It also allows the AC to be connected to Amazon Alexa and Google Home to enable voice commands.
Programmability & Timers
A good unit will have a range of modes and a 24-hour timer function for easy on and off settings. It should be easy to program and offer added functions such as temperature and time controls.
Installing a Window AC Unit
To install a window AC unit, you will need a stool to hold the unit, a utility knife, screwdrivers, a drilling machine, measuring tape, and a torpedo level.
Once you have all these gathered, follow the steps mentioned below:
Window AC Maintenance
Your unit will last longer and work more efficiently if you take good care of it. Follow the steps mentioned below to maintain your window AC:
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 6000 BTU enough power for an air conditioner?
Yes, a 6000 BTU unit is ideal for cooling down an office or room that measures anywhere between 200 to 250 square feet.
What size room will a 6000 BTU air conditioner cool?
A 6000 BTU air conditioner will efficiently cool down any space that measures 13 by 13 feet.
Will a 6000 BTU air conditioner cool a bedroom?
Most home bedrooms are 220 square feet in size, while apartment bedrooms are 132 square feet. Therefore, a 6000 BTU AC should be an ideal choice for a bedroom.
Should I get a 5000 or 6000 BTU air conditioner?
A 5000 BTU unit will cool down rooms that are approximately 150 square feet, while the 6000 BTU AC can cool down 250 square feet. You should pick out an AC based on the size of your room.
Is 6000 BTU enough for a living room?
If your living room is small enough, a 6000 BTU air conditioner should work fine. However, if it measures greater than 13 by 13 feet, you should opt for one with a higher cooling BTU.
Does higher BTU use more electricity?
Yes, a larger unit or one that has a higher BTU will use up more electricity.
How many BTU do I need for a 12x12 room?
You will need a 5000 BTU AC or higher for a 12 by 12-foot room.
How much energy does a 6000 BTU air conditioner use?
A 6000 BTU air conditioner uses approximately 600 Watts of energy when running at total capacity.
How much power does a 6000 BTU air conditioner use?
A 6000 BTU AC uses about 500 to 600 Watts of power at total capacity.
What Happens If My BTUs Are Too Low For My Space?
You will experience ineffective cooling if the BTU of your AC is not compatible with the size of your space.
Final Verdict: What is the Best 6,000 BTU Air Conditioner?
In our opinion, the MIDEA MAW06R1BWT is the best 6000 BTU air conditioner for most medium-sized bedrooms and similar-sized rooms.
It can be mounted easily to a window, provides effective cooling, is basically noiseless, offers Eco mode, and has a remote control.
However, if you are interested in a portable AC, we recommend the Danby, which has 4 wheels, a remote control, and can help you maintain desired humidity levels. It is an excellent choice for areas up to 250 square feet in size.
Lastly, if you want an AC with Wi-Fi connectivity, we suggest the Friedrich B07QCQD2T7 window AC. It can be controlled via an app and connected to Google Home or Alexa.
