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
8, 500 BTU ASHRAE Portable Air Conditioner vs 12, 000 BTU U Shaped Window Air Conditioner
Ravvy scores 8, 500 BTU ASHRAE Portable Air Conditioner at 79.26 and 12, 000 BTU U Shaped Window Air Conditioner at 93.13. 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.
$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.
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.
How they score
| Factor | 8, 500 BTU ASHRAE Portable Air Conditioner | 12, 000 BTU U Shaped Window Air Conditioner |
|---|---|---|
| Setup Ease | 85 | – |
| Portability | 88.5 | – |
| Cooling Power | 65 | 94 |
| Smart Features | 92 | 91 |
| Energy Efficiency | 72 | 96 |
| Noise Level | – | 98.5 |
| Installation Ease | – | 72 |
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
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
Specs side by side
| Spec | 8, 500 BTU ASHRAE Portable Air Conditioner | 12, 000 BTU U Shaped Window Air Conditioner |
|---|---|---|
| UPC | 840296514016 | 840296520062 |
| ASIN | B0DQW6R81R | B0G34JL2ZS |
| GTIN | 840296514016 | 840296520062 |
| Brand | Midea | Midea |
| Color | White | White |
| Noise | 52.6 db | 32 db |
| Voltage | 115 volts | 115 volts |
| Wattage | 830 watts | 1140 watts |
| Capacity | 4 cubic feet | 1 tons |
| Room Type | Indoor Residential/Small Office Room | Bedroom, Living Room |
| Brand Name | Midea | Midea |
| Efficiency | High | 15.0 CEER |
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