Last year was the hottest year on record for Charlotte (and not just the summer, either). Anyone who’s experienced summer in the Carolinas knows how intense the heat and humidity can get and temperatures climbing into the 90s and beyond, and sticky air well into the evening, a reliable air conditioner isn’t just a good idea; it’s a necessity.
Whether you’re cooling a small apartment or a multi-bedroom house, I looked at dozens of top-rated models to find the most effective options based on cooling power, energy efficiency, noise level and smart features. Beating the heat is important, but saving on your power bill is even better.
We checked out dozens of models and grouped the top picks into four clear price ranges, so you can quickly find the best air conditioner for your space and budget.
Note: Prices were accurate at the time of publication but may fluctuate due to seasonal demand and retailer promotions.
Best Air Conditioners: $150-$300
Compact and Capable: If you’re looking for a straightforward way to cool a smaller space, this Frigidaire 5,000 BTU is one of the best air conditioners for under $200. It’s ideal for rooms up to 250 square feet and offers simple mechanical controls, two fan speeds and a washable mesh filter. Its small footprint makes it a great option for dorms, home offices or guest bedrooms.
Smart Start: Toshiba’s 8,000 BTU Smart Wi-Fi window AC brings app-based control and Alexa compatibility to your space without pushing your budget. It quietly and efficiently cools rooms up to 350 square feet and includes a 24-hour timer, sleep mode and Energy Star certification for lower running costs.
Best Air Conditioners: $300-$400
Design-First Cooling: The Windmill 6,000 BTU Smart window AC is a top-rated option thanks to its curved edges, quiet operation and Wi-Fi-enabled app control. It cools rooms up to 250 square feet and installs easily in standard double-hung windows, making it an ideal option for bedrooms or home offices.
Quiet and Cozy: For year-round comfort, the Midea 8,000 BTU Smart Inverter AC with heat is good for rooms up to 350 square feet. The smart app control, voice compatibility, Energy Star efficiency and ultra-quiet 45 decibel performance make the Midea an excellent option for the Carolinas’ hot summers and mild winters.
Midea’s popular U-shaped window air conditioners have been pulled from sale pending a potential recall due to a potential mold issue. This is related to the shape and does not affect the conditional box-shaped ACs–ed.
Best Air Conditioners: $400-$500
Portable Performer: Honeywell’s portable air conditioner works well for rooms up to 450 square feet. It cools, dehumidifies and circulates air with fan mode, all while offering easy mobility and a remote control. The auto-evaporation system helps eliminate water buildup, making this a great solution for renters or homes without window access.
Peaceful Power: The LG 14,000 BTU Dual Inverter Smart Window AC is strong enough to cool up to 700 square feet while keeping noise levels low for sleeping or working. It connects to the LG ThinQ app along with any other LG smart appliances for smart control and features a dual inverter compressor that reduces energy use and speeds up cooling.
Out of Sight, Out of Mind: The GE Profile ClearView Window AC blends into your space with a slim, low-profile design that doesn’t block your view. It is one of the best air conditioners designed for rooms up to 450 square feet, and it includes Wi-Fi connectivity, Energy Star efficiency and app-based controls through SmartHQ.
Best Air Conditioners: $500 and Up
Big Power Cooling: The Whynter ARC-14S Dual Hose Portable AC packs 14,000 BTUs of cooling power for rooms up to 500 square feet. Its dual-hose setup improves efficiency over single-hose models, and the built-in dehumidifier and fan modes add to its versatility. It also uses eco-friendly refrigerant and comes with an activated carbon filter.
All-Season Solution: The Toshiba 14,000 BTU Inverter Portable AC with Heat is perfect for Charlotte’s changing weather. It cools and heats spaces up to 550 square feet and runs as quietly as 42 decibels. The smart app and voice control compatibility make it easy to manage your climate from anywhere, while the inverter technology cuts down on power use.
How We Chose the Best Air Conditioners
To find the best air conditioners, we looked at over 30 popular models from major retailers and brands. We prioritized products based on:
- Cooling capacity (BTUs) and room size coverage
- Energy efficiency and smart features
- Noise level and user-friendliness
- Customer reviews and recommendations
- Product availability and shipping
Stay Cool and Shop Smart in Charlotte
With Charlotte’s long, humid summers, a dependable air conditioner can make a huge difference in your comfort and energy bills. Retailers like Amazon, Lowe’s and Home Depot offer a wide selection, but Home Depot is often a smart place to start.
Many AC units qualify for free in-store pickup, fast shipping and for larger units, free or low-cost delivery. If you’re on a tighter budget, Home Depot offers flexible financing options. You can also check stock at your local store before you buy, which is especially helpful if you need to cool down your home as soon as today.
With those factors in mind, you can find the right air conditioner that can help you stay comfortable while keeping energy costs in check all summer long.
| Model | Price | Best For | Type | Coverage |
| Frigidaire 5,000 BTU Window-Mounted Room Air Conditioner | $179 | Small rooms and tight budgets | Window | Up to 250 sq. ft. |
| Toshiba Smart Wi-Fi Window AC | $249 | Budget-friendly smart features | Window | Up to 350 sq. ft. |
| Windmill 6,000 BTU Smart AC | $329 | Sleek design and simple installation | Window | Up to 250 sq. ft. |
| Midea 8,000 BTU Smart Inverter with Heat | $379 | Year-round comfort and quiet performance | Window | Up to 350 sq. ft. |
| Honeywell Portable AC with Dehumidifier | $449 | Multi-function cooling | Portable | Up to 450 sq. ft. |
| LG Dual Inverter Smart Window AC | $479 | Quiet cooling and energy savings | Window | Up to 700 sq. ft. |
| GE Profile ClearView Window AC | $499 | Sleek, low-profile installation | Window | Up to 450 sq. ft. |
| Whynter ARC-14S Dual Hose Portable AC | $549 | Portable cooling in larger rooms | Portable | Up to 500 sq. ft. |
| Toshiba 14,000 BTU Portable AC with Heat | $599 | Large rooms and year-round climate control | Portable | Up to 550 sq. ft. |
How to properly maintain your AC unit?
Here are some expert tips on how to make your AC unit work better:
- Utilize a Dehumidifier: Removing excess moisture from the air can make your home feel cooler and more comfortable, often using less electricity than running the AC continuously.
- Clean or Replace Air Filters Regularly: Dirty filters restrict airflow, making your system work harder. Check and replace filters every one to three months to maintain efficiency.
- Seal Air Leaks: Inspect windows and doors for gaps or cracks that allow cool air to escape. Sealing these leaks can improve comfort and reduce energy bills.
- Schedule Professional Maintenance: Having your HVAC system inspected and serviced by professionals can identify issues early and ensure optimal performance.
- Use Ceiling Fans Strategically: Fans can help circulate cool air more effectively, allowing you to set the thermostat a few degrees higher without sacrificing comfort.
- Install a Programmable Thermostat: Setting your thermostat to adjust temperatures when you’re away can reduce energy consumption and lower costs.
You should choose an AC with the right BTU rating for your space. For smaller rooms up to 250 square feet, a 5,000 to 6,000 BTU unit is usually sufficient. Medium rooms around 350 square feet may need 8,000 BTUs, while larger areas over 500 square feet call for 12,000 BTUs or more. Always consider ceiling height, insulation and sun exposure, too.
Portable ACs offer flexibility, especially if you’re renting or need to move the unit between rooms. However, window units are generally more energy-efficient and effective at cooling, especially for long-term use in a single space.
Look for models with inverter technology or Energy Star certification. Many newer units also include ECO mode, programmable timers and smart controls that help reduce energy use. For best results, keep doors and windows closed, use blackout curtains during the day and clean or replace filters regularly.
