93.8
Best for light sleepers and smart home enthusiasts needing quiet, automated cooling
- 28 ft/s Max Velocity
- 90 Degree Oscillation
- DC Brushless Motor
$80
Head to head · Air Conditioning
12, 000 BTU U Shaped Window Air Conditioner vs 8, 500 BTU ASHRAE Portable Air Conditioner
Ravvy scores 12, 000 BTU U Shaped Window Air Conditioner at 93.13 and 8, 500 BTU ASHRAE Portable Air Conditioner at 79.26. 12, 000 BTU U Shaped Window Air Conditioner takes the overall pick, best for light sleepers and apartment dwellers who want to retain window functionality.
Ravvy pick
$510
The Midea U is the best choice for those seeking near-silent cooling and energy efficiency, provided they are willing to navigate a more complex initial bracket installation.
$220
Budget conscious buyers should choose this for its excellent app connectivity and small footprint, provided they accept the limited cooling range and modest 5,000 BTU SACC rating.
How they score
| Factor | 12, 000 BTU U Shaped Window Air Conditioner | 8, 500 BTU ASHRAE Portable Air Conditioner |
|---|---|---|
| Noise Level | 98.5 | – |
| Cooling Power | 94 | 65 |
| Smart Features | 91 | 92 |
| Energy Efficiency | 96 | 72 |
| Installation Ease | 72 | – |
| Setup Ease | – | 85 |
| Portability | – | 88.5 |
12, 000 BTU U Shaped Window Air Conditioner
What owners praise
- Ultra-quiet 32 dBA operation is barely audible
- U-shape design allows window to open and close freely
- Inverter technology cuts energy costs by over 37 percent
- Highly responsive smart app and voice control integration
- Modern, sleek aesthetic compared to traditional box units
What to know first
- Installation requires a specific bracket setup that takes longer
- Heavier than many standard window units at nearly 57 pounds
- Window side foam seals may require extra attention for a perfect fit
Skip it if temporary setups or users who frequently move units between rooms
8, 500 BTU ASHRAE Portable Air Conditioner
What owners praise
- Integrated WiFi for remote app and voice control
- Compact and narrow design fits into tight corners
- Simple tool free window installation kit included
- Washable reusable filter reduces long term costs
- Responsive digital controls and 24 hour timer
What to know first
- Lower 5,000 SACC rating limits it to very small rooms
- Noisy 52.6 dB operation can be distracting for light sleepers
- Exhaust hose length is limited to 5 feet
Skip it if open concept living rooms or spaces larger than 150 square feet
Specs side by side
| Spec | 12, 000 BTU U Shaped Window Air Conditioner | 8, 500 BTU ASHRAE Portable Air Conditioner |
|---|---|---|
| UPC | 840296520062 | 840296514016 |
| ASIN | B0G34JL2ZS | B0DQW6R81R |
| GTIN | 840296520062 | 840296514016 |
| Brand | Midea | Midea |
| Color | White | White |
| Noise | 32 db | 52.6 db |
| Voltage | 115 volts | 115 volts |
| Wattage | 1140 watts | 830 watts |
| Capacity | 1 tons | 4 cubic feet |
| Room Type | Bedroom, Living Room | Indoor Residential/Small Office Room |
| Brand Name | Midea | Midea |
| Efficiency | 15.0 CEER | High |
Other options in this category
93.7
Best for budget conscious homeowners needing standard allergen protection
- Standard MERV 8 rating
- Six filter bulk value pack
- Electrostatic synthetic media
$35
93.5
Best for light sleepers and home office workers who need precise airflow height
- 40 to 45 inch adjustable height
- 9 precision speed settings
- Smart App and Remote control
$100