Staying cool during the summer doesn’t have to come at the cost of sky-high electricity bills or constant background noise. A good window unit can cool you quickly and quietly without using too much energy. The best ones are so efficient and unobtrusive that you can pretty much leave them running all summer and barely even notice them beyond the slightest bump in your utility bill.
Today’s air conditioners come in a range of designs to suit different homes and installation needs. There are even some options that aren’t scary to install and others that won’t take up your entire window, making it easier to maintain natural light and ventilation. While all window ACs can be a bit cumbersome to set up, the right choice will keep you comfortable without adding frustration to your day.
If you’re looking for the most comfortable way to beat the heat, we recommend the Midea U MAW08V1QWT. It is one of the quietest and most energy-efficient window air conditioners available, combining reliable cooling power with innovative design and ease of use.
Midea U MAW08V1QWT
Best Overall Air Conditioner
An innovative U-shaped window AC with 8,000 Btu cooling, smart controls, and inverter tech. It runs quietly and efficiently while letting you fully open your window, ideal for rooms up to 350 sq ft.
Buy on AmazonThe Midea U MAW08V1QWT stands out as a truly innovative window air conditioner that redefines what a compact unit can offer. Its unique U-shaped design allows the window to slide down into the middle of the unit, creating a secure seal while preserving the ability to open and close the window with ease. This design also positions the compressor and heavy hardware outside, effectively separating the indoor fan from the louder components, and providing extra security with built-in locks to prevent unauthorized access from outside.
With an 8,000 Btu inverter compressor, the Midea U efficiently cools rooms up to 350 square feet. The inverter technology allows it to adjust its energy consumption dynamically, running at varying speeds rather than constantly turning on and off. This results in a high energy efficiency ratio of 15, significantly better than non-inverter models that typically have ratings around 11 or 12. In practical use, the Midea U often operates between 100 and 300 watts, even though it is rated for up to 710 watts, maintaining a comfortable temperature with minimal energy use.
One of the most impressive aspects of the Midea U is its quiet operation. The placement of the compressor outside and the insulated window gap reduce noise to levels that blend into normal room ambience, between 35 and 40 decibels. Even when the compressor runs on high, the noise remains subtle and unobtrusive. This makes it an excellent choice for bedrooms, offices, or living spaces where a quiet environment is essential.
The Midea U is competitively priced, generally ranging from $350 to $400 for the 8,000 Btu model. This makes it comparable to standard AC units while providing the benefits of inverter efficiency and smart-home compatibility. Additionally, it includes its own window bracket, adding further value by saving the additional cost of purchasing a bracket separately.
However, there are some drawbacks to consider. Some users have reported mold accumulation, particularly in oversized units that extract high humidity levels. Midea has addressed these concerns with a recall and updated design fixes in 2025, recommending that users operate the unit on auto settings to keep the fan running periodically and aid in moisture evaporation. For anyone considering purchasing a new Midea U now, there is no reason for concern. The company has resolved the issue by including the updated repair kit with all newly packaged units and implementing design adjustments to improve drainage. Overall, the Midea U offers an excellent combination of quiet performance, energy efficiency, and innovative design that makes it a top choice among window air conditioners.
GE Profile ClearView PHNT10CC
Best for Large Rooms
A powerful 10,000 Btu inverter window air conditioner with a unique arch-shaped design that preserves nearly full window access while efficiently cooling rooms up to 450 square feet.
Buy on AmazonThe GE Profile ClearView PHNT10CC is a powerful and thoughtfully designed window air conditioner, ideal for rooms up to 450 square feet. With a 10,000 Btu inverter compressor, it offers more robust cooling than many comparable models while maintaining strong energy efficiency. Its certified energy efficiency rating of 14.7 is slightly lower than some inverter picks, but it remains highly efficient, especially for larger spaces where it can operate at lower power levels to maintain a stable temperature.
This model stands out for its unique design that preserves nearly the entire window for natural light and ventilation. Unlike traditional units that sit fully on the windowsill, the GE Profile has a distinctive lower-case “n” shape. Its 4-inch bridge sits on the sill while the main body hangs downward along the exterior wall. This means you can pull your window down almost completely and open it again easily, making it an excellent choice if you want to maintain access to your window while keeping your room cool.
Quiet operation is another strength of the GE Profile ClearView PHNT10CC. By positioning the compressor and noisy components outside, it minimizes interior noise levels, with only occasional low rumbles when the compressor first starts or vibrates against the frame. This makes it a good choice for bedrooms or offices where a quiet environment is important.
However, installation may require two people due to the unit’s length and unique design. While the process itself is straightforward, simply placing the unit to straddle the window and securing it in place, its barbell-like weight distribution can make it awkward to handle alone. Once installed, users should be aware that it extends about 9 inches into the room and hangs down another 7 inches, which may interfere with furniture placement below the window.
The controls on the GE Profile could also be improved. The touch-sensitive haptic buttons lack tactile feedback, making it difficult to confirm selections, and the LED indicators turn off after a few seconds of inactivity, leaving it unclear whether the unit is running. Despite these minor drawbacks, the GE Profile ClearView PHNT10CC is an excellent choice for powerful, efficient cooling with minimal noise and maximum window access.
Frigidaire FHWW084TE1
Best Budget Air Conditioner
An 8,000 BTU Wi‑Fi window AC that cools rooms up to 350 sq ft with multi‑directional airflow, remote smart‑app controls, and quiet 54 dB operation—all at a budget‑friendly price.
Buy on AmazonThe Frigidaire FHWW084TE1 is a dependable and affordable window air conditioner that offers consistently reliable cooling performance. While it does not have the inverter technology found in more premium models, it remains an efficient choice for its class. With an EER of 12.0, it is the highest-rated non-inverter air conditioner available, providing effective cooling while keeping energy consumption relatively low for its category. It is not as powerful or as quiet as more expensive picks, but it gets the job done well and remains widely available at a budget-friendly price.
This model includes a unique feature: compatibility with Frigidaire’s PureAir RAC10 Premium air filters, offering MERV-14 air filtration. This allows it to function as both an air conditioner and an air purifier, cleansing your space of particles and pathogens while keeping you cool. The filters are sold separately, adding a bit to the overall cost, but this dual functionality can eliminate the need for a separate purifier in your room.
Installation is also more straightforward compared to many other window units. The Frigidaire FHWW084TE1 is lighter, with a smaller chassis and better weight distribution, making it easier to lift and place in the window. Its side curtains slide in instead of needing to be screwed in, saving both time and frustration during setup. While no window AC is effortless to install, this model is notably easier to manage than larger or more complex units.
Smart features come standard, with built-in Wi-Fi and compatibility with the Frigidaire app for convenient control and scheduling. Integration with smart-home assistants allows for simple voice commands, and the Wi-Fi setup is quick and reliable. For those who prefer to skip the smart features, the Frigidaire FHWC083TC1 is nearly identical but does not include Wi-Fi, often available at a lower price.
The main drawback is its noise level, which is higher than inverter models. On its loudest setting, it produces around 55 decibels, including a low mechanical growl. This is louder than premium AC picks but quieter than most other standard air conditioners. All things considered, the Frigidaire FHWW084TE1 remains the best low-cost window AC available, offering efficiency, ease of installation, and optional air purification at an accessible price point.
Choosing the right air conditioner can make a significant difference in your comfort during the hot summer months. Whether you prioritize quiet operation, energy efficiency, or preserving window access, there are models that meet each need without compromising on cooling power. The Midea U offers an innovative design that combines efficient cooling with minimal noise and the ability to keep your window usable. The GE Profile ClearView provides robust cooling for larger rooms while allowing nearly full window access, and the Frigidaire FHWW084TE1 delivers reliable performance at a budget-friendly price with the bonus of air purification compatibility.
All of these options come with trade-offs, whether it’s installation complexity, interior space requirements, or noise levels compared to inverter models. However, each stands out in its category, providing a balance of performance, energy savings, and features that make summer living more comfortable.
No matter which model you choose, investing in a quality air conditioner ensures your home stays cool and comfortable without excessive noise or high energy costs. With the right unit installed, you can relax and enjoy the summer heat from the comfort of a perfectly cooled room.