Best portable air conditioner UK: in-stock air con for heatwaves

The best portable air conditioners slot right into a UK home. Hotter summers mean more and more UK families are investing in air conditioning, with affordable portable models the most popular choice. The UK Energy Research Centre estimates up to 32% of UK households will have air conditioning by 2050, so if you're searching for the best portable air conditioner for your home, you're certainly not alone.

Best portable air conditioners UK - at a glance:

Best portable air conditioner overall: Meaco MeacoCool Pro Series 10000 Portable Air Conditioner, from £330 - SOLD OUT
Best budget portable air conditioner: VonHaus Air Conditioning Unit 7000 BTU, £400
Best portable air conditioner, dehumidifier, and fan in one: Pro Breeze 4-in-1 Portable Air Conditioner 9000 BTU, £500
Best portable air conditioner with an app: AEG Comfort 6000 Portable Air Conditioner, £499
Best portable air conditioner for bedrooms: DELONGHI Pinguino ES72 8300 BTU Air Conditioner & Dehumidifier, £449

We spoke to Jose Escalante, home efficiency expert at Roofing Craftsmen, to find out more. "With UK summers getting hotter, portable AC units are no longer a luxury; they’re becoming a seasonal necessity," he says. "While fans and open windows might suffice on cooler days, they don’t provide the consistency or humidity control that portable ACs do, especially in heatwaves."

On stifling hot days and nights, a portable AC system can be an invaluable addition to your home, and they work much better than a neck fan or even an air cooler in a heatwave. With more and more people working from home — and in extensions and garden or home offices ill-equipped for extreme temperatures, you’ll want to ensure you have everything you need to keep you and your family cool and comfortable throughout the summer months.

Of course, you’re never going to need an air conditioner in the middle of winter in the UK, which is why most air conditioners for homes sold here are portable units which often double up as heaters or dehumidifiers. But with so many to choose from and important factors like running costs, noise levels, price and size to consider, it can be tricky to pick the right one.

How we chose the best portable air conditioners

The Meaco MeacoCool Pro Series 10000 Portable Air Conditioner is our best overall portable air conditioner, but we’ve also found strong budget and other strong 3-in-1 designs that combine cooling, fans, and dehumidifiers.

Recommendations from real Mumsnet users	We start on the Mumsnet forum, scanning recent threads about surviving heat waves and keeping your home cool in summer. The portable air conditioners that Mumsnet users consistently praise in their own homes are added to our longlist for deeper review.
Expert input and desk research	We compare each air conditioner based on key features – BTU level, functions, portability, energy use, timers, sleep modes and how easy it is to set up. Where relevant, we cross-check the brand’s claims against independent tests and expert reviews.
Verified-buyer feedback	We scrutinise verified reviews across major UK retailers (including Amazon, Argos, AO.com and Very), looking for feedback after long-term use on everyday performance.

We haven’t tested every portable air conditioner in this guide in-house, but we only recommend models that consistently perform well across all of these sources. Where we have run hands-on tests, we clearly say so in the review. For more detail on how we choose and test products on Mumsnet, see our How we test page. Buy

1

Best portable air conditioner overall

Meaco MeacoCool Pro Series 10000 Portable Air Conditioner - SOLD OUT

Buy now from Amazon Buy now from Meaco

What we like

Trusted brand
Impressive cooling power
Sleep mode for overnight

What we don't like

Reviewers find it quite noisy
Limited stock available due to its popularity

Key specs

What Mumsnet users say

SuperWorm24 · Recommended brand

We bought a portable unit this year. It's a meaco one and it's brilliant. We have a newborn baby and I'm breastfeeding. Where most adults can just put up with the heat it's a little more stressful when you have a baby or family member who cannot regulate their own temperature properly.

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beebopdoobop · Recommended brand

I live in a South facing new build and I bought Meaco air con from John Lewis. The tube goes out a window and I bought a window kit to seal the window. It was on for about four hours today and I would not be without it when working from home.

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Our verdict

Tested by Mumsnet editor Poppy O'Neill: Read our full MeacoCool MC Series Pro 10000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner review

On hot nights, summoning up the energy even to move from your star-fished position on the bed can be exhausting, which is where a smart air conditioning unit really comes into its own. If the night starts to get sticky, you can control this portable air conditioner via your mobile device or hook it up to your Alexa or Google Home, so it can start pumping out cool air at the touch of a button - transforming the room "from sauna to pleasant" in the words of one Mumsnet user.

"This model stands out for its quiet operation and energy-efficient performance," says home efficiency expert Jose Escalante. "It’s ideal for light sleepers or those working from home in small-to-medium rooms. The remote control and timer add convenience, though the hose length might be a bit limiting in larger spaces."

With a sleep mode for quieter operation overnight and an hour timer to pre-cool any room of your home, the unit also boasts a dry mode for reducing humidity, and a fan mode for use when air conditioning isn't required.

Meaco is a trusted and much-recommended brand on the Mumsnet forums, making some of the best fans and best dehumidifiers around, at affordable prices. All in all, we think this is the best portable air conditioner in the UK right now. However, due to the popularity of their air conditioners, at the time of writing there's very limited stock available. We managed to find a few new on eBay, and there are lower BTU versions suitable for smaller rooms available at Argos and John Lewis.

Related: The best desk fan for keeping your cool when working from home

2

Best budget portable air conditioner

VonHaus Air Conditioning Unit 7000 BTU

Buy now from Amazon

What we like

Affordable price point
Window venting kits included
Remote control or touchscreen operation

What we don't like

Noisier than some models even on lowest fan speed

Key specs

Our verdict

If you’re seeking a more affordable option, this VonHaus air conditioner offers excellent value for money, retailing at less than £250. Despite its budget-friendly price tag, this 3-in-1 design includes a cooling fan, air conditioner, and dehumidifier, making it ideal for year-round use.

Recommended for rooms up to 15m2), its portable design and castors make it easy to move around your house or carry downstairs to cool your surroundings when working from home. There are two window kits included, so whether you have a sash or sliding window, it's easy to set up and secure the venting hose.

Once set up, we love the convenience of the remote control, allowing you to turn it on, navigate between the two speed settings, or trigger the built-in 24-hour timer with minimal effort.

Related: The best budget fans for keeping cool without breaking the bank

3

Best portable air conditioner, dehumidifier, and fan in one

Pro Breeze 4-in-1 Portable Air Conditioner 9000 BTU

Buy now from Amazon

What we like

Window kit included
Smart app, remote or digital display operation
Uses ecofriendly R290 refrigerant

What we don't like

Costly

Key specs

Our verdict

A portable air conditioner is a big investment, and getting one with a dehumidifier function makes a lot of sense in the UK. This compact model from ProBreeze will keep you cool in summer with its air con and fan functions, and help dry your laundry in winter as a dehumidifier. There’s even a specific Sleep mode, so unlike some models, you can run it overnight without disturbing your neighbours.

You’ll find two window kits included to fit bit slide and hinged windows, with clear, step by step instructions. Once you’ve angled the louvres to your preference, you can operate this model from mobile phone, helping you lie back and attempt some shut eye in more comfortable surroundings.

4

Best portable air conditioner with an app

AEG Comfort 6000 Air Conditioner

Buy now from AO

What we like

Good energy efficiency
Great for pre-cooling a room
Uses modern eco-friendly R290 refrigerant gas
Operated via the AEG smartphone app or compatible device
Two-year guarantee

What we don't like

Fairly heavy compared to other models
Window kit sold separately

Key specs

What Mumsnet users say

Namechange202323 · Recommended product

We bought this one last week, it really does cool a big bedroom. AEG 6000. It's heavy and needs a window outlet, but effective, the room is much cooler than using a fan. Can be controlled with phone app too!

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Our verdict

Reviewed by Mumsnet editor Poppy O'Neill: Read our full AEG Comfort 6000 Portable Air Conditioner review

If your tower fan just isn't cutting it anymore as the temperatures rise, this easy-to-use AEG Comfort 6000 Portable Air Conditioner can be set up and installed in your bedroom or living space in minutes and offers quick cooling for spaces up to 36m². Whilst it’s fairly heavy compared to some models, it has casters to the base and strong grip handles to improve its portability, allowing you to move it around your home or upstairs as required, with a little bit of effort and some help lifting it.

"This is a premium choice with solid cooling performance and sleek design," says air con expert Jose Escalante. "Its powerful 12000 BTU output makes it great for large rooms or open-plan living spaces. A downside is its weight. Portability is relative here, so it's best for those who won’t need to move it often."

Simple to control remotely via the AEG app, it runs at a relatively low noise level and thanks to its powerful 12000 BTU rating, it gets to work pretty fast once you turn it on. Plus, if you don't want to control it through your smartphone, you can also set it to work manually on the control panel.

Unlike some older portable air conditioner models, it uses the modern R290 refrigerant gas to cool your surroundings, a more sustainable and environmentally-friendly choice. It also boasts an A energy efficiency rating, but as with all portable air conditioning units, the overall performance can be improved by using a window seal kit to prevent warm air from re-entering the room. The window kit is sold separately, which we don't like - there are different types for different window frames available on the AEG website.

Related: The best neck fans, as recommended by Mumsnetters

5

Best portable air conditioner for a bedroom

DELONGHI Pinguino ES72 8300 BTU Air Conditioner & Dehumidifier

Buy now from Currys

What we like

Fast and efficient cooling
Three-in-one product with fan and dehumidifier options
Remote control and 24-hour timer

What we don't like

Costly
Reviewers found the exhaust hose length a little short

Key specs

What Mumsnet users say

Canthelpmyselffromjoiningin · Recommended product

We've had a Delonghi Pinguino for about 4 years which I thoroughly reccommend. You do need to put the vent hose out of a window, but its very effective at cooling and the air feels better too as its also a dehumidifier. Worth every penny when the weather is like this.

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NeverDropYourMooncup · Recommended product

Weighs a ton but once it's upstairs, it's really easy to move around. It's really noisy when actively cooling, but stick it on a noise absorbing mat like one for underneath a washing machine and when you get to night time, it's a lot quieter on the sleep setting. I loved being able to set a timer for it so that I'd get home and head for the bedroom where it had been running for about 45 mins before I got in - bliss. Also usable as a dehumidifier in winter for clothes.

See Post

Havinganamechange · Recommended brand

Forget all the fans, go straight for a mobile air con unit. We have a delonghi which was about £500 but it works brilliantly. Hose out of the window, on full and it’s amazing.

See Post

Our verdict

We all know that heat rises, meaning our bedrooms can be unbearable during the summer months. If you have young children, this can lead to a disturbed night for everyone. Having a portable air conditioning unit upstairs or in your master bedroom can make the surroundings far more comfortable and conducive for sleep.

"The Pinguino offers a good balance of power and eco-friendliness, using R290 refrigerant," says Jose. "It’s quieter than many models in its class, making it ideal for bedrooms or offices. It's a bit pricier, but you're paying for quality and brand reliability."

The De'Longhi Pinguino ES72 Portable Air Conditioner is designed to cool rooms up to 60 m³, making it a great option for bedrooms, home offices or smaller living spaces during hot weather. It offers both air conditioning and dehumidifying functions, so you can use it throughout the year to help reduce excess moisture in the air as well as keep rooms cool.

You can control it remotely without getting out of bed, and there are three fan speeds plus an auto mode to help maintain a comfortable temperature while keeping noise levels lower on gentler settings. It’s also designed with energy efficiency in mind, using R290 refrigerant, which has a lower environmental impact than traditional gases. While it is an investment purchase, the added dehumidifier function means you’re likely to get use from it beyond the summer months too.

What size portable air conditioner do I need (BTU guide)?

When choosing a portable air conditioner, it’s important to consider the BTU - British Thermal Unit of the appliance and ensure its suitable for your chosen room size. The BTU rating is a measurement that describes how much heat an air conditioner can remove from a room per hour.

As a general rule, the larger your room or office, the higher BTU rating you’ll need:

Small rooms (up to 14m²) - 4000-6000 BTU
Medium rooms (up to 23m²) - 6000-8000 BTU
Large rooms (up to 35m2) - 8000-10000 BTU
Extra large rooms (up to 42m2) - 10000-12000 BTU

You may also want to choose a higher BTU if your room is on the top floor of a 3 story house or gets strong direct sunlight during the day.

Do portable air conditioners need to be vented out of a window?

Yes, portable air conditioners need venting out of a window or patio door to remove the hot air from your room via an exhaust hose.

Most portable air conditioners come with window kits included, with options for both sliding and sash windows. Some window kits are sold separately however, so check the product listings before you buy to avoid disappointment.

Venting can be done in a few easy steps. Grab the hose and connect it to the back of your AC. Here's the important part: make sure the other end of the hose is directed outside, preferably through a slightly open window or a vent hole. This lets the hot air escape while your AC cools things down indoors. Just double-check for any gaps or leaks around the window and hose, and you're good to go. A lot of air conditioners come with a sealing kit so you can maximise its efficiency, too, by blocking gaps in the open window.

Related: Best cooling boxes for chilled food and drink

Single hose vs dual hose portable air conditioner: what’s the difference?

Single-hose portable air conditioning units exhaust the hot air from your room through one hose, whereas dual-hose air conditioners use two – one to pull in outside air and expel hot air to the outside.

For occasional use in the UK, a single-hose portable air conditioner should be sufficient, but you may want to invest in a dual-hose for continuous use in warmer climates.

How much does a portable air conditioner cost to run per hour in the UK?

The exact cost of running an air conditioner overnight will depend on the type of unit, whether it has an auto shut-off timer and its overall power consumption. You can calculate the energy use by multiplying the wattage, electricity rate and number of hours it's running.

According to recent testing by consumer champion Which?, the average cost of running a portable air conditioning unit is 22p per hour.

Are portable air conditioners noisy - and can you sleep with one on?

Portable air conditioners can be noisy, especially at maximum fan speeds - ranging between 50-65dB on higher settings.

If you plan to sleep with it running, you should look for models with designated sleep modes, which use low fan speeds for quieter 40-50dB operation during use. If you are a light sleeper however, you may prefer to use a timer, or cool the room prior to going to bed.

About the authors

Lucy Cotterill is a freelance writer, who in addition to running an established blog, Real Mum Reviews, writes lifestyle content for a variety of publications in the UK and US, with a focus on detailed and balanced product reviews.

She's written about a vast range of products for Mumsnet, including the top ways to beat the heat this summer, whether that's with the best cooling boxes for family trips or the top cooling pillows for a dreamy night's sleep.

Poppy O'Neill is a Content Editor at Mumsnet and a mother of two. She researches and reviews the products Mumsnetters swear by, with a particular focus on home essentials, laundry and fans. From a highly-recommended retractable washing line to the best quiet fans money can buy, and Mumsnet's favourite dehumidifier to the steam generator iron that'll cut your ironing time in half, she loves to deep-dive into research and find the very best products on the market.

Why you should trust us

We work hard to provide honest and independent advice you can trust and we spend hours scouring the Mumsnet forums and online bestseller lists to find products that real parents rate.

Transparency is really important to us and that's why we're always upfront about where we find our recommendations. We write about products that we feel offer the best value to most parents – the ones that our users would recommend to their own friends and family.

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