Stay Cool All Summer With the Best Small Window AC Units

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Staying cool this summer doesn't have to mean standing in front of your open freezer. Close those windows, put away those fans, and embrace the air conditioning instead. And, no, that doesn't have to include the major hassle of putting in an HVAC system. Window AC units are a great, inexpensive option for renters, apartment-dwellers, or homeowners on a budget. Plus, their small size means they won't block out too much sunlight or clash with your decor.

No matter what kind of space you have, there's a compact window AC unit that will fit right in. They're easy to install (no need to call for help!) and quiet, too, so they won't ruin your summertime chill. Ahead, we rounded up the best options to help you beat the heat this summer.

01
HomeLabs 5000 BTU Window-Mounted Air Conditioner
amazon.com

HomeLabs 5000 BTU Window-Mounted Air Conditioner

The HomeLabs 5000 BTU Window Mounted Air Conditioner ($210) is the perfect unit for microsize spaces, like dorm rooms or studio apartments. It comes with a reusable, washable filter to help keep your allergies at bay and an extra-long cord for easy installation.

02
Keystone KSTAW05CE Energy Star 5000 BTU Window-Mounted Air Conditioner
amazon.com

Keystone KSTAW05CE Energy Star 5000 BTU Window-Mounted Air Conditioner

Want a hands-free AC? The Keystone KSTAW05CE Energy Star 5000 BTU Window-Mounted Air Conditioner ($200) comes with a remote control that has a thermostat inside. If your room starts to heat up unevenly, the remote will signal to the AC to cool things down depending on where you are.

03
GE 5000 BTU Mechanical Window Air Conditioner
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GE 5000 BTU Mechanical Window Air Conditioner

The GE 5000 BTU Mechanical Window Air Conditioner ($160) is so compact, you probably won't even notice it's there. It comes with two cooling settings and two fan speeds, so you can adjust it to fit your space. Plus, there's a mounting kit for quick and painless installation.

04
Midea 5000 BTU EasyCool Window Air Conditioner and Fan
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Midea 5000 BTU EasyCool Window Air Conditioner and Fan

With seven temperature settings and two-way air direction, the Midea 5000 BTU EasyCool Window Air Conditioner and Fan ($170) gives you total flexibility with your space. It's also energy-efficient, so you could even save a few dollars on your power bill.

05
Frigidaire Energy Star 12000 BTU 115V Window-Mounted Compact Air Conditioner
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Frigidaire Energy Star 12000 BTU 115V Window-Mounted Compact Air Conditioner

Cool a room up to 550 square feet with the Frigidaire Energy Star 12000 BTU 115V Window-Mounted Compact Air Conditioner ($389). It also has an "effortless restart" feature that cues the unit to restart with its previous settings in place after the power goes out.

06
Midea U Inverter Window Air Conditioner
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Midea U Inverter Window Air Conditioner

The Midea U Inverter Window Air Conditioner ($469) is nine-times quieter than the average window AC unit, which makes it perfect for households with small children — or adults who like to nap. Its unique design also allows you to open your window while it's installed, so you can cool down while letting more fresh air in.

07
Della 6000 BTU Energy Star Window Air Conditioner
amazon.com

Della 6000 BTU Energy Star Window Air Conditioner

The thing about the Della 6000 BTU Energy Star Window Air Conditioner ($310, originally $350) is that it's super smart. You can control the unit easily from your smartphone, or hook it up to Amazon Alexa to cool down using just your voice.

08
Rovsun 6000 BTU Window Air Conditioner
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Rovsun 6000 BTU Window Air Conditioner

The Rovsun 6000 BTU Window Air Conditioner ($240) is a simple machine that does exactly what it says it's going to do. It has an easy-to-use LED control panel where you can select your cooling settings and also comes with a remote if you're too comfy to get off the couch.

09
Danby 5000 BTU Window Air Conditioner
amazon.com

Danby 5000 BTU Window Air Conditioner

With its affordable price, the Danby 5000 BTU Window Air Conditioner ($174, originally $200) is a fan favorite (pun intended). It features a reusable, washable air filter and two-way air direction, making it a convenient little unit that will fit into almost any space.

10
Tosot 8000 BTU Window Air Conditioner
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Tosot 8000 BTU Window Air Conditioner

The minimalistic Tosot 8000 BTU Window Air Conditioner ($300) has an elegant, simple design. It also has a dehumidifying-only mode, for those long, muggy summer days when the air feels dense and heavy.

11
Frigidaire FFRS1022R1 10000 BTU Slider/Casement Room Window Air Conditioner
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Frigidaire FFRS1022R1 10000 BTU Slider/Casement Room Window Air Conditioner

This little Frigidaire FFRS1022R1 10000 BTU Slider/Casement Room Window Air Conditioner ($700) packs a punch. With six different settings and the capacity to cool up to 450 square feet, this unit is the real, heavy-duty deal.

12
Gree 12000 BTU Window Air Conditioner
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Gree 12000 BTU Window Air Conditioner

You can install the Gree 12000 BTU Window Air Conditioner ($420) with only a screwdriver. And after the easy installation, the remote control will send real-time temperature data to the unit, so it can self-adjust accordingly to suit your preferences. You'll be feeling breezier in no time!