Window AC Units Vs. Portable AC Units: Which Is Right For You?
Feb 13, 2025
Window AC vs. Portable AC: Finding the Best Fit for Your Needs
Having the right air conditioner unit for your home can make a significant difference, both in terms of comfort and energy efficiency. While there are many options out there, here we will focus on the two most popular ones – Window AC and Portable AC. Both these ACs come with their unique features, benefits, and drawbacks, and depending on your lifestyle, needs, and space they can provide you with much-needed relief during the hot seasons.
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In this article, we will discuss the features and benefits of window ACs and portable ACs. Additionally, we will also do a comprehensive AC unit comparison, discuss the factors to consider before choosing any of the two, when you should choose a window AC and when you should choose a portable AC, and more.
Air Conditioners that are compact and designed to be installed in a window or a wall opening are known as Window ACs. These ACs are ideal for small to medium-sized spaces, particularly single rooms where they can operate efficiently.
What Are Portable ACs?
Portable ACs are designed with wheels so that they can be transported easily from one space to another. They do not require permanent installation because these are freestanding units that aim to provide a more flexible cooling option.
Key Features of Window AC Units and Portable AC Units
Designed to permanently be installed into a window frame, window ACs are just what you need to cool single rooms. On the other hand, portable ACs, designed as standalone units with wheels, are needed for cooling multiple spaces. Let’s take a look at the key features of both window ACs and portable ACs
Window AC
Below are a few basic features of window ACs.
• Permanent Installation: Window ACs have to be permanently installed into a window frame or wall, which can be a bit complicated. However, the result is a secure and long-lasting solution.
• Space-Saving Design: Since window ACs are designed to be installed in a window frame or wall, your floor space isn’t occupied. This feature makes these ACs ideal for a small room.
• Superior Cooling Efficiency: Window ACs have very powerful cooling capabilities. They often outperform portable ACs in terms of cooling efficiency and speed.
• Quieter Operation: With the compressor being outside the room, the operation of window ACs is much quieter.
Portable AC
Here are a few basic features of portable ACs.
• Easy Setup: Portable ACs are easy to set up. You need no tools nor do you have to do any extra work to install them. All you need to do is connect the exhaust hose to a window and plug it in.
• Flexible Mobility: Since portable ACs are standalone units that come with wheels, you can move them to whichever room you need at any time.
• Versatility: Portable ACs are ideal for anyone looking to get one for temporary usage. Basically, they are suitable for renters or those who want a cooling system that doesn’t require any space modification.
• Storage-Friendly: Portable ACs can be easily stored away when not in use, especially during the Winter season, offering more space.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Windows ACs and Portable ACs
Let’s take a look at the benefits and drawbacks of window ACs and portable ACs.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Window ACs
Here are a few benefits and drawbacks of window ACs.
Benefits
Drawbacks
Powerful and consistent cooling performance.
Requires properly sized windows for installation. Else might need additional work for building one.
Installed in a window frame, saving up floor space.
The functionality of the window is limited.
Energy-efficient and cost-effective since most models are ENERGY STAR-certified.
Natural light is blocked.
Built with durability in mind, hence, requires minimal maintenance.
Cannot be moved easily once installed.
Quieter operation since the compressor and fan are outside the room.
Some rental properties might not allow it.
Long term-solution.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Portable ACs
Here are a few benefits and drawbacks of portable ACs.
Benefits
Drawbacks
Easy to set up. Only a window kit and exhaust hose are needed.
Lower cooling efficiency. Not as powerful as window ACs.
Easily movable from one room to another.
Takes up floor space and might crowd a small space.
Perfect for spaces that do not have suitable windows for a window AC installation.
Noisy operation because the entire system operates within the room.
Can be stored easily when not required.
Less energy efficient.
Key Differences: Window AC Units vs. Portable AC Units
Here are the key differences between a window AC and a portable AC.
Ease of Installation
Window ACs need to be permanently installed which requires more time, effort, and money. Portable ACs, on the other hand, need no effort or tools to set up as they are freestanding units, however, they need an exhaust hose to be connected to a window kit.
Mobility and Flexibility
Window ACs cannot be moved from one room to another, hence, multi-room usage isn’t possible. Portable ACs can be moved from one place to another because they are equipped with wheels but require floor space.
Cooling Capacity
Window ACs have a higher cooling capacity and can easily cool large spaces or single rooms. Portable ACs have a lower cooling power and are suitable for small rooms.
Energy Efficiency
Window ACs come with Energy STAR certification, which means that they consume less energy, hence, reducing your electricity bills in the long run. Portable ACs, on the other hand, consume a lot more energy due to less efficient heat exchange, thereby, increasing your energy bills.
Noise Levels
Since the compressor is outside the room, a window AC is much quieter. As for portable ACs, since it operates inside the room, it is much louder.
Cost
The cost of a window AC is initially lower, however, installation charges add to the cost. Portable ACs are generally much costlier per BTU of cooling power, however, since they offer more flexibility the price might be justified for certain customers. Having said that, long-term energy costs should be factored in too.
AC Unit Comparison Chart: Window AC vs. Portable AC
Factors to Consider Before Choosing a Window AC or a Portable AC
These are the factors to consider before choosing either a window AC or a portable AC.
Room Size: Before you decide to get a window AC or a portable AC, first evaluate your room’s size. If you need to use an AC for a single small or medium-sized room, then a window AC is ideal. Additionally, a window AC can work for a small room only if you have enough window space for fixing the AC. On the other hand, a smaller room can benefit from a portable AC but it might not be very effective for a large room.
Home Layout: Your home’s layout is also a crucial factor when it comes to choosing between these two AC units. If you are renting the space or your window is quite unconventional then a portable AC is a better option than a window AC.
Budget: Budget plays an important role in your decision-making too. Window ACs are generally more budget-friendly but might cost a little more initially due to other factors such as installation. However, since they are energy efficient, they can save you some money in the long run. Portable ACs are much more expensive, both in terms of purchase and energy consumption. However, since they offer mobility, multi-room usage, and easy installation, their prices can be justified.
Aesthetic Preferences: Your aesthetic preference is another factor to consider before you choose an AC unit. Consider how either would affect the look of your space. Window ACs might obstruct your window view but would be hidden away, giving you ample floor space, while portable ACs are much more noticeable and take up floor space.
When Should You Choose Window AC Units?
Here’s when you need to choose a window AC unit.
• When you want a permanent solution.
• You have your own home, so there’s no one to object.
• You are looking for powerful cooling for a single room.
• You do not want your floor space to be occupied.
• You want a quiet operation.
• You are looking for an energy-efficient solution.
When Should You Choose Portable AC Units?
Here’s when you need to choose a portable AC unit.
• When you are looking for a temporary cooling solution.
• You need something that can be easily set up.
• You live in a rental property and permanent installations aren’t allowed.
• You need to use an AC for more than one room.
Window ACs and Portable ACs On GARVEE that You Must Check Out
Here are a few Window ACs and Portable ACs to check out on GARVEE.
GARVEE 8000 BTU Smart Window AC
This is a fast and powerful 8000 BTU window air conditionerthat can cool a 350 sq.ft space and fits a 23-36” window. It has a 3-in-1 functionality – cool, dehumidify, and fan. Besides, it is ultra-quiet and has a sleep mode that ensures you sleep noise-free. Additionally, it comes with an eco-friendly R-32 refrigerant that ensures efficient and fast cooling.
GARVEE 8000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner
This 8000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner has cooling capacity for 350 sq.ft rooms. It comes with 4-in-1 functions – cooling, drying, sleep mode, and fan. Additionally, it has a self-evaporation and manual draining system. It comes with a remote, exhaust hose, and a kit.
GARVEE 6000 BTU Window Air Conditioners with Remote Control and WiFi
This GARVEE 6000 BTU Window Air Conditioner can cool up to 250 sq.ft. Additionally, it comes with an energy-saving mode and DC technology. Besides, its innovative U-shape helps in noise reduction.
GARVEE 14000 BTU Portable AC
This GARVEE 14000 btu portable air conditionercan cool up to 700 sq.ft. It comes with a 3-in-1 function – cool, fan, and dehumidify. Additionally, it has energy-efficient settings such as sleep mode and timer. Its 360° wheels make it easily movable from one space to another.
GARVEE 10000 BTU AC for Rooms Up to 450 Sq. ft
This GARVEE ETL & DOE certified mini portable air conditionercan cool up to 450 sq.ft. It has a 90° vertical and 60° horizontal cooling system. It also comes with a smart control panel and remote. For safety purposes, it has a child lock.
You can explore more window AC units and portable AC units here on garvee.com!
Whether you choose a window AC or a portable AC, the choice you make completely depends on your needs and circumstances. This includes room size, layout, budget, aesthetic preference, permanent usage, temporary solution, etc. If you are looking for noise-free, energy-efficient, space-saving, and single-room usage, then a window AC is for you. If you are looking for a temporary, easy setup, and multi-room usage, then a portable AC would be an ideal option for you. Weigh in all the benefits and drawbacks of each and choose one that suits your requirements.
Explore window ACs and portable ACs as per your needs on garvee.com.
