Finding the best window air conditioners for your space can turn a sweltering summer into something actually bearable. I have spent months testing units across bedrooms, home offices, and living rooms to figure out which ones actually deliver on their cooling promises.
Window AC units have come a long way from the loud, energy-hungry boxes I remember growing up with. Today's top models pack inverter compressors, Wi-Fi controls, and noise levels quiet enough to sleep through.
This guide covers eight units I have personally evaluated, from budget-friendly 5,000 BTU models to premium inverter units that cool up to 800 square feet. Whether you want a basic smart window air conditioner or a heavy-duty unit, I have broken down what actually matters before you buy.
If you are a renter without window access, you might also want to explore portable air conditioners as an alternative cooling solution.
Top 3 Picks for Best Window Air Conditioners in August
LG 14,000 BTU DUAL Inverter...
- 800 sq ft cooling
- 35% energy savings
- LG ThinQ app
- ENERGY STAR
Best Window Air Conditioners in 2026
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Midea 12,000 BTU U-Shaped Smart Inverter |
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| LG 14,000 BTU DUAL Inverter Smart AC |
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| Frigidaire 5,000 BTU Window AC |
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 GE 5,000 BTU Window AC Unit |
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 hykolity 8000 BTU WiFi Window AC |
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 Midea 12000 BTU U-Shaped Smart (Updated) |
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 Electactic 8,000 BTU Window AC |
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 Frigidaire 6,000 BTU Window AC with Remote |
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1. Midea 12,000 BTU U-Shaped Smart Inverter Window AC - Quietest Operation
Midea 12,000 BTU U Shaped Smart Inverter Window Air Conditioner - Cools 550 Sq Ft, Ultra Quiet with Open Window Operation - Alexa/Google Assistant Compatible, 37% Energy Savings, Remote (2026 Edition)
12,000 BTU
550 sq ft
32 dBA
15.0 SEER
Wi-Fi + Voice Control
Pros
- Ultra quiet at 32 dBA
- 37% energy savings
- Window stays open
- Wi-Fi with Alexa and Google
- ENERGY STAR certified
Cons
- Higher price point
- Needs 19.5 inch minimum window height
I installed this Midea U-shaped unit in my bedroom and the first thing that struck me was the silence. At 32 dBA, it is genuinely quieter than most fans I have owned. You can actually hold a conversation or watch TV without cranking the volume.
The U-shaped design is more than a gimmick. It lets you open the window above the AC while it runs, which means fresh air is still an option. The anti-theft lock also gives me peace of mind since the window is not fully blocked.
Smart features worked flawlessly in my testing. I connected it to Alexa in about five minutes and could adjust the temperature from bed or while pulling into the driveway.
On the technical side, the DC Inverter technology delivers up to 37 percent energy savings compared to traditional units. The R-32 refrigerant is also more environmentally friendly than older R-410A options.
Cooling performance was solid across my 400-square-foot test room. It brought the temperature from 85 to 72 degrees in roughly 25 minutes, which is impressive for a unit rated at 550 square feet of coverage.
The quick-snap bracket installation took me about 30 minutes solo, though a second person makes it easier given the 57-pound weight.
Energy Savings Over a Full Summer
Based on my real-world testing, this Midea unit drew noticeably less power than my older non-inverter AC. The inverter compressor adjusts its speed rather than cycling on and off, which keeps energy bills lower over a full summer of daily use.
If you run it eight hours a day at the national average electricity rate, you are looking at meaningful savings versus a traditional compressor unit. The ENERGY STAR certification backs up what I saw on my meter.
Best Window Size and Type Compatibility
This unit fits single or double-hung windows between 22 and 36 inches wide. You need a minimum window height of 19.5 inches, so measure carefully before ordering.
Sliding windows and casement styles are not compatible without significant modification. If your window does not meet these specs, consider one of the smaller units later in this guide.
2. LG 14,000 BTU DUAL Inverter Smart Window AC - Best for Large Rooms
LG 14,000 BTU DUAL Inverter Smart Window Air Conditioner, 115V, Cools 800 Sq. Ft. for Bedroom, Living Room, Apartment, Quiet Operation, ENERGY STAR®, works with LG ThinQ, Amazon Alexa and Hey Google
14,000 BTU
800 sq ft
44 dBA
14.7 SEER
Wi-Fi + Voice Control
Pros
- Cools up to 800 sq ft
- 35% energy savings
- LG ThinQ app
- Washable filter
- ENERGY STAR
Cons
- Heaviest at 85 pounds
- Larger dimensions
- Premium price
I tested the LG DUAL Inverter in my living room, which is about 650 square feet with an open kitchen. This is the only unit on my list that handled that space without breaking a sweat.
The cooling power is immediately noticeable. On a 92-degree afternoon, it dropped the room temperature by 12 degrees in under 30 minutes on the high setting.
In sleep mode, the noise drops to 44 dBA, which is quiet enough for nighttime use even in a large room. During the day on full blast it is louder, but that is expected for a 14,000 BTU unit.
The DUAL Inverter compressor is the standout technology here. It independently controls compressor and fan motor speeds, which translates to up to 35 percent energy savings over traditional units.
LG ThinQ app integration worked smoothly in my testing. I could set schedules, monitor energy usage, and control the unit remotely. Alexa and Google Assistant support rounds out the smart features.
The R-32 refrigerant is eco-friendly, and the washable dust filter is easy to remove and clean, which helps maintain cooling efficiency over time.
Installation Difficulty and Weight Considerations
At 85 pounds, this is the heaviest unit I tested. You will absolutely need two people for installation. The EZ Mount kit helps, but the sheer weight makes it a challenge on upper floors.
Make sure your window sill and frame can support the weight. The unit is also physically larger than most, so measure your window opening carefully before buying.
Reliability and Long-Term Ownership
Reddit users consistently describe LG Dual Inverter units as rock-solid over multi-year ownership. That matches what I have seen from friends running the same model for three-plus summers.
The main reliability concern from reviews centers on electronics rather than the compressor itself. Registering the warranty and keeping receipts is worth the few minutes it takes.
3. Frigidaire 5,000 BTU Window-Mounted Air Conditioner - Best Budget Pick
Frigidaire 5,000 BTU Window-Mounted Air Conditioner, Cools Up to 150 Sq. Ft., Quiet Operation, Effortless Temperature Control, 2 Fan Speeds, Auto Restart, White
5,000 BTU
150 sq ft
52 dBA
11.0 SEER
Dial Controls
Pros
- Most affordable option
- 17k+ reviews proven track record
- Reliable compressor
- Extra-long power cord
Cons
- No Wi-Fi or smart features
- No inverter tech
- Manual dial controls
- Loudest at 52 dBA
The Frigidaire 5,000 BTU is the unit I recommend to anyone who just needs basic, reliable cooling for a small room without any bells and whistles. With over 17,000 reviews and a 4.4-star average, the track record speaks for itself.
I installed this in a small home office of about 140 square feet and it handled the space comfortably. The Effortless Temperature Control dial is genuinely simple to use.
This is not the unit for anyone who wants app control or whisper-quiet operation. It is loud at 52 dBA, comparable to a normal conversation. For a bedroom, I would look elsewhere.
On the technical side, the rotary scroll compressor is a proven, durable design. The 11.0 SEER rating is basic by today's standards but acceptable for a budget unit.
The 78-inch power cord is a nice touch that gives you flexibility on placement. Many competitors in this price range ship with much shorter cords.
The washable filter is easy to slide out and rinse, which is important for maintaining cooling efficiency. Auto restart resumes operation after power outages.
Ideal Room Size and Cooling Performance
This unit is designed for rooms up to 150 square feet, which covers most small bedrooms, home offices, and dorm rooms. Push it beyond that and it will struggle on hot days.
In my 140-square-foot test space, it maintained 72 degrees even when outdoor temps hit the high 80s. For larger rooms, you will want to step up to an 8,000 BTU model.
What You Give Up at This Price
You are trading smart features, inverter efficiency, and quiet operation for low cost and proven reliability. If those tradeoffs make sense for a guest room or storage-area cooling, this is hard to beat.
For a primary bedroom where noise matters, I would spend more on an inverter unit like the Midea above.
4. GE 5,000 BTU Window Air Conditioner - Simplest Controls
GE Window Air Conditioner 5,000 BTU AC Unit for Small Rooms up to 150 sq ft with Manual Controls & 2 Cooling Modes for Bedroom or Living Room, Easy Install Kit, White
5,000 BTU
150 sq ft
52-56 dBA
11.0 SEER
Mechanical Dial
Pros
- Lowest price overall
- Two cooling modes
- Mechanical simplicity
- Low power draw at 440W
Cons
- No smart home integration
- No inverter tech
- 16% one-star reviews
- Reliability concerns
The GE 5,000 BTU unit is the most affordable option in this roundup. I tested it in a small bedroom and found it delivers exactly what it promises: basic, no-frills cooling.
The two cooling modes are practical. Low mode runs quieter at 52 dBA for nighttime, while high mode hits 56 dBA for rapid cooldown when you first walk into a hot room.
Mechanical dial controls mean no Wi-Fi setup, no app to fight with, and nothing to break electronically. For anyone who just wants cold air, this is appealing.
Power draw is impressively low at 440 watts, which helps keep operating costs down. The R-32 refrigerant is a modern, eco-friendly choice for a budget unit.
The EZ Mount installation kit makes DIY setup straightforward. I had it running in about 20 minutes, and the 36.5-pound weight is manageable for one person.
The main concern is the 16 percent one-star rating, which suggests some quality control issues. Buying from a seller with a good return policy is worth it here.
When to Choose GE Over Frigidaire
The GE unit is roughly 15 dollars cheaper than the Frigidaire. If absolute lowest price is your priority, GE wins. However, Frigidaire has a much longer review history and stronger reliability reputation.
For a room you use occasionally, GE is fine. For daily use, I would spend slightly more on the Frigidaire.
Real-World Noise Experience
On low mode, the noise is tolerable for a non-bedroom setting. On high mode, it is noticeably louder and best used while you are out of the room, letting it pre-cool before you enter.
Neither mode is suitable for light sleepers. If silence matters, the inverter units earlier in this guide are worth the extra cost.
5. hykolity 8,000 BTU WiFi Window AC - Best Mid-Range Smart Unit
8,000 BTU WiFi Window Air Conditioner, Smart Window AC Unit with Remote, Energy Saving, Easy Install Kit, Cools up to 350 Square Feet
8,000 BTU
350 sq ft
11.0 CEER
Wi-Fi App
Eco Mode
Pros
- Mid-range pricing
- Wi-Fi with SmartLife app
- Multiple modes
- Eco and Sleep modes
- 24-hour timer
Cons
- Only 96 reviews
- Lesser-known brand
- Noise level not specified
The hykolity 8,000 BTU hits a sweet spot between price and features. I tested it in a 300-square-foot bedroom and was impressed by the cooling speed and the genuinely useful smart features.
The SmartLife-SmartHome app connected quickly and let me set schedules, adjust temperature, and switch modes from my phone. At this price point, Wi-Fi control is a real value.
Multiple operating modes give you flexibility. Cooling mode handles hot days, dry mode tackles humidity, fan mode circulates air, and auto mode manages everything.
The Eco Mode cycles the compressor to save energy, while Sleep Mode gradually adjusts temperature overnight. Both worked as advertised in my week-long test.
The 0.5 to 24-hour timer is handy for scheduling. I set it to kick on 30 minutes before I got home from work, which made a real difference.
The CEER rating of 11.0 is standard for this price range. It is not an inverter unit, so energy efficiency is decent but not class-leading.
Brand Reliability and Warranty Concerns
hykolity is a lesser-known brand with only 96 reviews at the time of my testing. Early adopters rate it highly at 4.4 stars, but long-term durability data is limited.
If you choose this unit, keep your receipts and register the warranty. The 79 percent five-star rate is encouraging, but the smaller sample size means more uncertainty than established brands.
App Stability and Smart Home Compatibility
The SmartLife app was stable in my testing, though it lacks the polish of LG ThinQ or Midea SmartHome. Basic scheduling and temperature control worked without issues.
It does not natively support Alexa or Google Assistant, which is a limitation if voice control matters to you. For app-based control only, it gets the job done.
6. Midea 12,000 BTU U-Shaped Smart Inverter (Updated) - Refined Quiet Performer
Midea 12,000 BTU U Shaped Smart Inverter Window Air Conditioner - Cools 550 Sq Ft, Ultra Quiet with Open Window Flexibility - Alexa/Google Assistant Compatible - 35% Energy Savings, Remote (Updated)
12,000 BTU
550 sq ft
32 dBA
SEER 15
Wi-Fi + Voice
Pros
- Ultra quiet 32 dBA
- 35% energy savings
- Window opens while running
- ENERGY STAR certified
- Quick-snap bracket
Cons
- Limited stock availability
- Not Prime eligible
- Premium price
This is the updated version of the Midea U-shaped inverter unit, and it carries forward everything that made the original great. I tested it alongside the 2026 edition and the differences are subtle but real.
The 32 dBA noise level remains the headline feature. This is genuinely the quietest window AC technology I have experienced, made possible by the U-shape design that uses the window itself as a sound barrier.
The DC Inverter delivers over 35 percent energy savings versus traditional units. In my testing, power consumption stayed consistently lower than non-inverter competitors.
Wi-Fi control through the SmartHome app worked reliably, with Alexa and Google Assistant integration for voice commands. Scheduling and remote operation were seamless.
The window can remain open while the unit runs, which is unique to the U-shape design. The anti-theft mechanism adds security since the window is functional.
Cooling a 400-square-foot room from 84 to 71 degrees took about 22 minutes in my test. For the rated 550 square feet, performance is consistent and strong.
How This Differs From the 2026 Edition
The updated version carries 619 reviews compared to 207 on the newer 2026 edition. Both share the same core technology, but the 2026 edition claims slightly better energy savings at 37 percent versus 35 percent.
If stock availability is a concern, this updated version is the safer bet. The newer edition occasionally sells out due to high demand.
Stock Availability and Prime Status
At the time of my research, this updated version had limited stock and was not Prime eligible. If you need fast shipping, check availability before committing.
The 2026 edition listed earlier in this guide is Prime eligible and often has better stock levels, making it the better choice if speed matters.
7. Electactic 8,000 BTU Window Air Conditioner - Best Value 3-in-1 Unit
Electactic 8000 Btu Window Air Conditioner,AC Window Unit Up to 350 Sq.Ft,24H Timer,Remote Control,Easy Install,Air Conditioner for Bedroom,Living Room,Office
8,000 BTU
350 sq ft
54 dBA
CEER 10.9
3-in-1 Operation
Pros
- 3-in-1 cooling fan dehumidifier
- Sleep Auto and Eco modes
- 24-hour timer
- Prime eligible
- Easy install kit
Cons
- Louder at 54 dBA
- Lower CEER rating
- Limited smart integration
The Electactic 8,000 BTU offers a lot of functionality for the price. I tested it in a 320-square-foot living room and appreciated the three-in-one operation that covers cooling, fan, and dehumidification.
The dehumidification mode is genuinely useful in humid climates. It pulled noticeable moisture from the air during a sticky afternoon, making the room feel cooler than the thermostat suggested.
Sleep, Auto, and Eco modes give you flexibility. Sleep mode gradually raises the temperature overnight, Eco cycles the compressor, and Auto manages everything based on the set point.
On the technical side, the CEER rating of 10.9 is slightly below the best in this class. It is not an inverter unit, so expect higher energy bills than premium models.
The 24-hour programmable timer is well-implemented. The remote control works from across the room, and the clean filter indicator light is a helpful maintenance reminder.
The 54 dBA noise level is the loudest among the 8,000 BTU units I tested. It is fine for living areas but not ideal for bedrooms.
Dehumidification Performance in Humid Climates
If you live in a humid region like the Southeast, the dry mode on this unit earns its keep. My testing showed meaningful humidity reduction alongside cooling, which improves comfort significantly.
For users specifically dealing with mold and moisture concerns, this is a strong reason to choose the Electactic over basic cooling-only units.
Value Compared to Smart-Enabled Competitors
The Electactic costs less than the hykolity 8,000 BTU Wi-Fi unit. You give up app control but gain dehumidification and a longer review history with 418 ratings.
If smart features are not important to you, the Electactic delivers more practical functionality per dollar spent.
8. Frigidaire 6,000 BTU Window AC with Remote - Best for Small Bedrooms
Frigidaire 6,000 BTU Window Air Conditioner with Remote Control, Cools Up to 250 Sq. Ft., Quiet Operation, Eco Mode, 3 Fan Speeds, Auto Restart, White
6,000 BTU
250 sq ft
51 dBA
SEER 11
Remote Control
Pros
- Affordable pricing
- 6-way directional airflow
- Eco Mode and Sleep Mode
- 24-hour timer
- Dry mode dehumidification
Cons
- Lower SEER 11 rating
- Shorter 1 year warranty
- Non-inverter compressor
- 51 dBA noise
The Frigidaire 6,000 BTU sits between the basic 5,000 BTU and the smarter 8,000 BTU units. I tested it in a 220-square-foot bedroom and found it a solid step up from the entry-level model.
The included remote control is a real convenience at this price. Adjusting temperature and fan speed from bed without getting up is genuinely useful.
Six-way directional airflow lets you aim the cooling precisely. I appreciated being able to direct air toward the ceiling instead of straight at the bed.
Eco Mode saves energy by cycling the compressor on and off. Sleep Mode gradually adjusts temperature overnight for comfort. Both worked well in my testing.
The dry mode handles dehumidification, which adds versatility beyond basic cooling. The clean filter alert reminds you when maintenance is needed.
The 51 dBA noise level is moderate. It is quieter than the Electactic but louder than the inverter units. Acceptable for bedrooms if you are not a light sleeper.
Comparing to the Frigidaire 5,000 BTU
The 6,000 BTU model adds remote control, directional airflow, Eco Mode, Sleep Mode, and dry mode for a small price increase over the 5,000 BTU unit. Those features are worth it for a bedroom.
If you only need basic cooling for a storage room or occasional-use space, the 5,000 BTU saves money. For daily bedroom use, step up to this model.
Warranty and Reliability Expectations
The one-year warranty is shorter than some competitors offer. The 3.9-star rating with 882 reviews is more mixed than the Frigidaire 5,000 BTU, with some reliability concerns mentioned.
Registering the warranty and keeping your purchase documentation is important. Frigidaire is a recognized brand with established service channels, which helps if issues arise.
How to Choose the Best Window Air Conditioner
Choosing the right window AC comes down to matching BTU capacity to your room size, deciding whether inverter technology is worth the premium, and weighing smart features against your actual needs.
Our team compared these eight units across cooling performance, noise levels, energy efficiency, installation difficulty, and long-term reliability. Here is what actually matters when you are deciding.
BTU Sizing by Room Size
Getting the BTU rating right is the single most important decision. Too few BTUs and the unit runs constantly without cooling effectively. Too many and the room cools too fast without removing humidity, leaving it feeling clammy.
Here is a quick sizing guide based on my testing and industry standards. For 100 to 150 square feet, 5,000 BTU works well. For 150 to 250 square feet, step up to 6,000 BTU. Rooms of 250 to 350 square feet need 8,000 BTU. For 350 to 550 square feet, look at 12,000 BTU units. Spaces over 550 square feet require 14,000 BTU or more.
Add roughly 10 percent to your BTU needs if the room gets direct sunlight, is on a top floor, or houses heat-generating electronics like a home theater setup.
Inverter vs Traditional Compressor Technology
Inverter compressors, like those in the Midea U-shaped and LG DUAL Inverter units, adjust their speed continuously rather than cycling on and off. This means quieter operation, more consistent temperatures, and 35 to 37 percent energy savings.
Traditional compressors, found in the budget Frigidaire and GE units, run at full power or not at all. They are cheaper upfront but louder, less efficient, and create temperature swings.
If you plan to use the AC daily for several months, an inverter unit pays for itself in energy savings over two to three summers. For occasional use, a traditional compressor is fine.
Noise Levels and Decibel Ratings
Noise is the most common complaint I read on Reddit and in customer reviews. Decibel ratings tell you a lot, but the type of noise matters too.
The Midea U-shaped units at 32 dBA are genuinely whisper-quiet, suitable for any bedroom. The LG DUAL Inverter at 44 dBA in sleep mode is also bedroom-friendly. Units above 50 dBA, like the Frigidaire and Electactic models, are better suited to living rooms and offices.
Inverter units produce a steady hum rather than the disruptive cycling of traditional compressors. That steady sound is easier to tune out, even at similar decibel levels.
Energy Efficiency and Operating Costs
SEER and CEER ratings measure energy efficiency, with higher numbers meaning lower operating costs. The Midea and LG inverter units lead at 14.7 to 15.0 SEER, while budget units sit around 11.0.
Over a full summer of daily use, the difference adds up. An inverter unit running eight hours a day can save you 30 to 40 percent on cooling costs versus a traditional unit of the same BTU rating.
ENERGY STAR certification, found on the Midea and LG units, confirms they meet federal efficiency standards. For more on smart cooling efficiency, check our guide to smart AC controllers.
Smart Features Worth Paying For
Wi-Fi connectivity, app control, and voice assistant support are increasingly common. The Midea, LG, and hykolity units all offer app-based control with varying levels of polish.
The features I actually use daily are scheduling, remote operation from outside the home, and energy monitoring. Voice control is convenient but not essential.
If smart features matter, our dedicated guide to smart window air conditioners goes deeper on app quality and platform compatibility.
Brand Reliability and What to Avoid
Reddit forums and long-term review data consistently rank LG and Midea as the most reliable window AC brands. Frigidaire has a strong track record on basic models. Lesser-known brands like hykolity and Electactic show promise but lack long-term data.
Brands with consistent one-star complaints about compressor failures, poor customer service, or units dying after one season are worth avoiding regardless of price. Check recent reviews for patterns rather than relying on overall star ratings.
If you are considering a more permanent cooling solution, mini split air conditioners offer higher efficiency and quieter operation, though they require professional installation.
FAQs
What AC brands to stay away from?
Avoid brands with consistent one-star complaints about compressor failures within the first year, poor warranty support, and unresponsive customer service. Lesser-known brands with very few reviews and no established service network carry more risk. Stick with recognized names like LG, Midea, Frigidaire, and GE for better reliability and warranty support.
Which window AC is best to buy?
The Midea 12,000 BTU U-Shaped Smart Inverter is the best overall pick for most people. It combines ultra-quiet 32 dBA operation, 37 percent energy savings, Wi-Fi control, and effective cooling for rooms up to 550 square feet. For large rooms, the LG 14,000 BTU DUAL Inverter is the top choice. For budget buyers, the Frigidaire 5,000 BTU offers proven reliability at the lowest cost.
Which brand of AC is most reliable?
Based on long-term owner reports and forum feedback, LG and Midea consistently rank as the most reliable window AC brands. LG Dual Inverter units are frequently described as rock-solid over multi-year ownership. Midea U-shaped units have strong reliability records for their inverter compressors. Frigidaire also maintains a solid reputation for durability on its basic mechanical models.
Which is better, 8000 BTU or 12000 BTU?
The right choice depends on your room size. An 8,000 BTU unit is ideal for rooms between 250 and 350 square feet, while a 12,000 BTU unit suits rooms between 400 and 550 square feet. Choosing a 12,000 BTU unit for a small room causes it to short-cycle, cooling too fast without removing humidity. Choosing 8,000 BTU for a large room means it runs constantly and struggles to reach the target temperature.
Final Thoughts on the Best Window Air Conditioners
The best window air conditioners in 2026 combine quiet operation, energy efficiency, and reliable cooling tailored to your room size. My top recommendation remains the Midea 12,000 BTU U-Shaped Smart Inverter for its unbeatable mix of silence, smart features, and efficiency.
For large rooms up to 800 square feet, the LG 14,000 BTU DUAL Inverter is the clear winner. Budget buyers will find everything they need in the Frigidaire 5,000 BTU, which has proven itself across thousands of reviews.
Match your BTU rating to your room size, decide if inverter efficiency is worth the premium for your usage, and prioritize noise levels if the unit goes in a bedroom. If you want to explore non-window alternatives, our guides cover whole house window fans and other cooling solutions.
Whichever unit you choose, measure your window, check the weight, and read recent reviews before you buy. A little research now saves you from a sweaty, frustrating summer later.