The Best Deals on Window-Mounted and Portable Air Conditioners Right Now

Find the right fit for your space, and stay cool this summer without breaking the bank.

Price and stock could change after publish date, and we may make money off these affiliate links. Learn more.
Updated on August 10, 2023

You would think that after growing up in the hot and humid South, where stepping outside felt like standing in front of an open oven, that I would be used to and unbothered by stagnant summer air at this point. But nope! I still dislike the feeling of sticky clothes and stifling heat, especially in my own home, and think that everyone should have an air conditioner they can rely on.

But some houses don't come with central air and might not allow you to permanently mount something to the wall, which is where things can get complicated. So, to help you stay nice and cool this summer, I'm breaking down the difference between window-mounted and portable AC units and sharing the best deals on both happening right now. Keep scrolling to get the details.

Window-Mounted Air Conditioners

If you can't have a wall-mounted air conditioner, a window unit is a great alternative for a few reasons. They're pretty affordable and easy to install, they don't take up any floor space (which is nice if you're living in a small studio or apartment), they're temporary and they cool rooms efficiently and quickly. The only catch is that they'll also block some of the natural light that comes in your room, and they have to fit the specific dimensions of your window.

OUR TOP PICKS

The Best Window AC Units for Every Budget

Check out these top-rated models with features like quiet operation for bedrooms and stylish clear panels so the whole window isn't blocked.

UNDER 500 SQUARE FEET ON SALE

These ACs on sale are smaller than most window units, both in size and BTUs, so they're ideal for a smaller room such as a home office or an apartment living room.

OVER 500 SQUARE FEET ON SALE

If you have a little wiggle room in the budget, these units have slightly more power than the ones above, which means they can cool a larger area.

Portable Air Conditioners

If you don't love the idea of a box sitting on your window sill, you might prefer a portable air conditioner. Just as the name suggests, these units typically come on four caster wheels, so you can move them as needed. However, this means that even the most compact unit will take up some of your floor space, and high-powered ones can be pretty pricey. You'll also still need to vent your unit through a window, which means it will have to sit in a corner of your living room or bedroom.

OUR TOP PICKS

The Best Portable Air Conditioners Under $600

Check out these top-rated models with features like quiet operation for bedrooms and dehumidifiers for hot, humid spaces.

UP TO 300 SQUARE FEET ON SALE

Small. Efficient. As cheap as it gets. We spotted this AC for under $300. If you need cooling ASAP for a small home office or bedroom, this is your best buy.

$419.99 $279.99
33% Off!

We already named this Black + Decker unit the best overall portable AC in our shopping guide, and now it's on sale for a fraction of the cost over at Wayfair! This deal won't last long so pounce on it if you're shopping for an apartment or small room AC.

UP TO 500 SQUARE FEET ON SALE

We named this Black + Decker unit the best overall portable AC in our shopping guide, and now it's on sale for a fraction of the cost over! This deal won't last long so pounce on it if you're shopping for an apartment or small room AC.

UP TO 700 SQUARE FEET ON SALE

Need mega power to cool a large room? These units are perfect for a family den or large bedroom. Plus, they come with extra features such as a dehumidifier and heater for winter!

More Ways to Stay Cool

12 Stylish Ceiling Fans Under $500 to Keep You Cool

Sure, you might need a ceiling fan to stay cool, but what about a fan that also looks cool?

The Best Portable Cooling Fans for Summer

Check out our top picks, from large towers to handheld fans.

More Buys for Summer

Next Up

The Best Portable Air Conditioners Under $600 in 2024

As temperatures rise, beat the heat with a portable AC unit. Check out these top-rated models with features like quiet operation for bedrooms and dehumidifiers for hot, humid spaces.

The Best Window Air Conditioning Units for Every Budget

As temperatures rise, beat the heat with a window AC unit. Check out these top-rated models with features like quiet operation for bedrooms and stylish clear panels so the whole window isn't blocked.

The Best Deals on Outdoor Tools, Grills and Fire Pits Right Now

Snag discounted big-ticket items for your next backyard project, from top-rated lawn movers to power tools under $60.

The Best Presidents Day Mattress Sales to Shop Now

Treat yourself to a plush new bed without breaking the bank.

42 Best Deals From the Walmart Deals Holiday Kickoff Savings Event

Get ready to save up to 60 percent on mattresses, TVs, cookware sets, stick vacuums, toys and more, and get your holiday shopping done early.

21 Humidifiers You Can Snag on Sale Right Now for Winter

Soothe your skin, clear your sinuses and more with a humidifier tailored exactly to your needs and budget.

25 Weighted Blankets You Can Snag on Sale Right Now

Snuggle up for winter with a good deal on a cozy, calming blanket.

The Best Home, Travel + Gift Deals From the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale

Now's your chance to snag bedding sets, suitcases, small appliances and more for a huge discount.

11 More Amazing Home Sales to Shop During Way Day

Double your savings this week and snag luxury bedding sets, living room furniture, area rugs, tech and more from some of our favorite retailers.

Where to Score Online Deals During Prime Day Not on Amazon

We'd be remiss not to alert you to these competitive deals happening across the internet.

Go Shopping

Refresh your home with stylish products handpicked by HGTV editors.

Follow Us Everywhere

Join the party! Don't miss HGTV in your favorite social media feeds.