10 Best Cheap Window Air Conditioners Under $100, $200 & $300

Nothing is more daunting than finding a high-quality window air conditioner when you’re on a tight budget.
 
And the question we get asked the most is: “are there cheap window air conditioners under $100?” Well, the answer depends on what exactly you’re looking for – new or refurbished window ACs.

Cheap Window Air conditioners Under $100

While you can buy a refurbished unit for less than $100, we don’t recommend the option for two reasons:
  • Is it worth the money? Are you getting any significant savings by buying the refurbished unit? If the price difference isn’t too far, then a new one is the better option.
  • How long will the warranty last? Most refurbished units come with a short warranty period which signifies a lousy deal.
But how lovely it is to know you can still find cheap window ACs for less than $200 or $300. We extensively researched hundreds of ACs, read common responses from real customers, and put together this guide to expedite your shopping process.
 
The best part, we’ve also compared their efficiency with high-priced units.

So without further ado, here the top-performing cheapest window air conditioners under $200 and $300.

Cheap Window Air Conditioners Under $200

Last update on 2023-09-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Escape the summer heat and enjoy a comfortable environment by picking one of the best cheap window air conditioners reviewed below.

1. Frigidaire Window-Mounted Mini-Compact Air Conditioner – Best Window AC unit

The Frigidaire FFRA0511R1 is one of the best-selling window-mounted air conditioners on the market not only because of its affordability but also because it offers efficient room cooling for spaces up to 150 square feet.

It has received more than 2000 positive reviews, which means many customers appreciate its price and efficiency.

Apart from cooling your room, this cheap window air conditioner can also dehumidify up to 1.1 pints per hour.

If your room is relatively warm and doesn’t need to be air-conditioned, you can turn on the fan mode to circulate the air and prevent stuffiness.

The Frigidaire FFRA0511R1 has an EER of 11. 1 and uses a standard 115V electrical outlet. It also features a low-power start-up and effortless restart system. That means it uses very little energy to power and you don’t have to reset it in case of power interruptions – it picks up from where it was.

Noise level is an important factor when choosing an air conditioner. This window air conditioner operates quietly and allows you to direct the cool air where you need it the most.

The only downside is that it doesn’t come with remote control. However, it’s still easy to use because the mechanical rotary controls still allow you to manage the cooling and fan speeds.


2. hOmeLabs 5000 BTU Window-Mounted Air Conditioner – Best Window AC unit for small space

Sale
hOmeLabs Window Air Conditioner 5000 BTU - Easy...
  • Heavy duty window-mounted air conditioner with 5000 BTUs of cooling power to chill indoor spaces up to 150 square feet; an essential summer addition to bedrooms, living rooms, dorm rooms or small apartments
  • Electric window AC system comes with filter, support brackets, leaf guards, window seal foam, and even a handy non-drip installation guide. Be sure to plug the conveniently extra-long, 6 ft, 3-prong power cord directly into wall outlet (do not use with extension cords)
  • Quiet mini compact air conditioner features 7 temp settings for cooling flexibility, two-way air direction control and adjustable high or low fan speeds to quickly and powerfully reduce hot temperatures in small rooms in just 15 minutes or less
  • Includes reusable washable filter that can be easily cleaned with warm water and dish soap, or vacuum cleaned with dustbuster (if hand washing, please allow to filter dry thoroughly before re-installing). Clean filter regularly to enjoy optimum cooling power
  • 5000 BTU energy efficient window AC unit for 110V/120V electrical outlets measures 16 inches long x 12 inches high x 15.4 inches deep. Ideal for windows for windows measuring between 23 - 36 inches wide, and at least 13 inches high

Last update on 2023-09-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The hOmeLabs 5000 BTU Window Air Conditioner is another unit you can consider if you need a machine to stir up a little breeze in a small space. Like Frigidaire FFRA0511R1, it offers 5000 BTUs of cooling and ideal for rooms up to 150 square.

One of the impressive features of this cheap window air conditioner is the 7 fan speed settings that allow you to customize the cooling to your needs.

This feature is something you’ll not find in very many cheap portable air conditioners. Moreover, it can quickly and powerfully reduce hot zones in your room within 10 minutes or fewer, thanks to the two-way airflow and adjustable fan settings.

Installing this unit is easy, thanks to the included window kit. The installation kit provides leaf covers to use on the side panels, window seal foam, a support bracket, and a user guide that is easy to follow.

If you don’t want to replace your filter now and again, choose this unit because of its washable and reusable filters. All you have to do is to find out how frequently you have to wash it.

The hOmeLabs also doesn’t have digital control systems, so you have to use mechanical controls.


3. MIDEA MAW05M1BWT Window air conditioner – Best 2-in-1 window AC unit

Sale
Midea 5,000 BTU EasyCool Small Window Air...
  • PERFECT FOR SMALLER ROOMS - Midea's Affordable Window AC unit is perfect to help your room be as comfortable as possible. It can cool 150 sq. ft. with 7 temperature settings, 2 cooling/2 fan-only speeds, and 2-way air direction to give you the perfect amount of cooling every time.Controller type:Button Control.Air Flow efficiency:145 CFM. Moisture removal-1.27 pints/ hr.Core material : Copper..Control Type : Electronic. Refrigerant : R410A.
  • ENERGY EFFICIENT- Midea's 5,000 BTU window air conditioner has a Combined Energy Efficiency Rate (CEER) of 11.0 which helps reduce the energy costs to save you money throughout the year.
  • QUIET & EASY TO USE - This window AC unit is quieter than a household refrigerator. It also features easy-to-use mechanical controls to quickly set the time, temperature, and mode and has a removable & reusable air filter.
  • EASY INSTALLATION - Easily install in your home or apartment's existing window frame. Suitable for windows 23''-36'' wide and minimum 13'' high. All mounting accessories are included. A screwdriver is required (but not included) for installation. For some window frames, pilot holes are recommended before installing screws. Please see included instruction manual for further detail.
  • WARRANTY: 1 Year Parts & Labor Warranty comes with each Midea product to ensure the quality of our brand to our customers. Our team is happy to help if any questions or issues arise and make sure to register your product on our website for even faster support in the future.

Last update on 2023-09-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The fast cooling MIDEA window air conditioner is a mini-compact AC perfect for cooling rooms up to 150 square feet. It installs with ease. You only need modest modifications to the window.

It’s also usable in a wide range of windows as long as the window is 23-26 inches wide and at least 13 inches high. All the mounting accessories are included.

At 11.0 CEER, the 5,000 BTU air conditioner is one of the most efficient yet cheapest window air conditioners. The result is that you end up saving a lot of money on energy costs.

You may also want to know that this is a 2-in-1 appliance. It functions both as an air conditioner and a fan. The two features can operate together or separately as you wish.

This cheap window air conditioner comes in a compact design, ideal for small spaces. It’s also impressively quiet at 54 decibels (in the lowest setting).

Even at maximum speed, it generates a modest 57 decibels. You get seven (7) temperature settings in total, and the reusable, washable mesh filters reduce bacteria, room odors, and other airborne particles for healthier, more comfortable indoor air.

Pros 

  • 2-in-1 air conditioner and fan
  • Convenient washable filters
  • 2-way air directions
  • Installation accessories included
  • One year limited manufacturer warranty

Cons 

  • No remote control
  • Not ideal for large rooms

4. LG Energy Star Window Air Conditioner – Best energy efficient window air conditioner

Sale
LG 6,000 BTU Window Conditioner, Cools 250 Sq.Ft....
  • Low Noise Performance - operates at sound levels as low as 52dB (in low mode) eliminating unnecessary noise.
  • Multiple Fan Speeds - 3 cooling and fan speeds allow you to customize your cooling.
  • Maximum Usability - Easy to use electronic controls with remote
  • Auto Restart - After a power failure, Auto Restart will automatically turn the unit back on when power is restored
  • Cools Rooms Up To 250 Sq. Ft- LW6017R is ideal for cooling medium rooms (10' X 25')

Last update on 2023-09-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

If you’re concerned with a window air conditioner’s energy efficiency, then there is no better choice than LG Energy Star Window Air Conditioner.

This window air conditioner meets strict guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and Department of Energy and claims that your yearly energy cost will be approximately $89.

Ideal for rooms up to 260 square feet, this unit can also dehumidify, pulling up to 1.8 pints of excess moisture from the air per hour.

If you want your room cool within a few minutes or target specific zones within your home, you can take advantage of the adjustable horizontal and vertical louver controls along with the three-speed fan.

The LG 6,000 BTU, which is the cheapest in the pack, doesn’t offer WI-FI connectivity.

However, if you choose higher BTUs from 8,000 to 18,000, then the Wi-Fi connectivity feature is included and you can make adjustments from the convenience of your smartphone.

Keep in mind that the 6,000 BTU is priced low because it doesn’t have the Wi-Fi feature.

On the upside, this cheap window AC is built for quiet operation. No matter where it’s installed – in the bedroom, living room, or study room, it will do its job without even waking up the cat.

Since it’s compatible with standard double-hung windows, installing this AC is also easy and includes a window installation kit for your convenience.


5. Emerson Quiet Kool Window Air Conditioner – Best quiet window air conditioner

Emerson Quiet Kool 5,000 BTU 115V Window Air...
  • Quiet Cooling: This mechanical 5,000 BTU window air conditioner efficiently cools up to 150 sq. ft. At 52dB, this unit is among the quietest in the industry, making it ideal for bedrooms, living rooms, apartments, and any other environment
  • Smart-Fit Sizing: With dimensions of 16” W x 12” H, this Emerson Quiet Kool window air conditioner was designed with Smart-Fit dimensions, meaning it will fit any 23” to 26” window you have
  • Programmable Timer and Sleep Mode: Integrated 24-hour timer can be set via on-board controls or remote control. Intelligent sleep mode takes it one step further by slowly adjusting the temperature and fan speed to keep you comfortable overnight
  • Exclusive 1-2-5 Warranty: Your Emerson Quiet Kool Wi-fi enabled air conditioner comes with an industry-exclusive 1-2-5 warranty that covers 1 year of labor, 2 years of parts, and 5 years on the compressor. Buy and use with confidence
  • Split Air Exhaust Vents: Two air exhaust vents (instead of one) combine with three fan speeds to give you 8-way flexibility to direct the flow of cold air where you want it when you want it

Last update on 2023-09-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

With an affordable price and excellent quality, this unit from Emerson is one of the best-selling and popular 5,000 BTU window air conditioners in the US.

Emerson is one of the largest companies in electronics and electrical equipment and has been featuring on the Fortune 500 list of America’s largest corporations.

One of the features that have made Emerson Quiet Kool EARC5MD1 stand out is its quiet operation. This AC operates at a minimum noise level of 50 dB and only 55 dB at the maximum level.

The Emerson Quiet Kool EARC5MD1 will not only cool your room but also remove up to 1.3 pints per hour for a more comfortable environment.

Apart from the quiet operation, this window air conditioner offers 8-way airflow louvers that allow you to direct the air where you need it the most.

Moreover, you don’t have to worry about resetting the unit to its original settings when the power is restored in case of power outage. The Auto Restart resumes operating at its previous settings.

Other features you will definitely love when you chose this unit include a low voltage start-up that conserves energy and saves you money, mechanical rotary controls with 2 cooling speeds, 2 fan speeds and variable temperature dial, hydrophilic aluminum condenser fins that resist corrosion in saltwater areas and window mounting kit for easy installation.

Read also: Cheap portable air conditioner under $200 


Cheap Window Air Conditioners Under $300

Last update on 2023-09-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Below are our top picks for cheap window air conditioners under $300;

1. Friedrich CP05G10B Air Conditioner –

If you want to stay cool and relaxed in your home and willing to spend a little bit more on a small room window air conditioner, then you need to choose the Friedrich CP05G10B Air Conditioner. This small AC pumps out refreshing air at 5,200 BTUs to keep a space up to 150 square feet cool to your delight.

If you don’t have double-hand windows or don’t want to install your unit on the window, you have the option to set up this AC on the wall.

The installation process is not complicated because the slide-out chassis makes it easy to slide out the AC from a window or wall for hassle-free maintenance. It also comes with a power cord that runs either left or right out of the AC front side.

Once installed, this unit will cool your space in the most energy-efficient way possible, thanks to the money saver setting that allows you to run the unit by selecting the fan-only mode for cooling.

The Auto Air Sweep swing louvers will ensure that cool air is consistently distributed across the room.

Using the air conditioner is easy. With the remote control, you can conveniently customize the different settings from a distance without getting up.

Another important feature of the Friedrich CP05G10B Air Conditioner is that it operates quietly – you won’t get distracted because it is designed to cut operation noise to a minimum.


2. Frigidaire FFRE0833S1 Window-Mounted Mini-Compact Air Conditioner

FRIGIDAIRE FFRE0833S1 8,000 BTU 115V...
  • 2016 energy star: 12. 0 energy efficiency ratio (eer)
  • 8, 000 BTU mini-compact air conditioner for window-mounted installation
  • Quickly cools a room up to 350 sq. Ft
  • Dehumidification up to 1. 7 pints per hour
  • Clean air ionizer removes pollen and impurities from the air providing relief for allergy sufferers

Last update on 2023-09-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Frigidaire FFRE0833S1 is one of the budget window air conditioners that have met the latest Energy Star standards and has an impressive 12.0 energy efficiency ratio (EER).

It saves energy by operating at a low voltage and has an energy saver mode that maintains your desired temperature without using a lot of energy.

This heavy-duty air conditioner has a cooling output of 8,000 BTUs and serves an area of up to 150 square feet. Other than cooling, it can also dehumidify up to 1.7 pints per hour.

You can easily customize your cooling needs by selecting any of the three fan speeds or direct cool air to your desired zone using the eight (8)-way comfort control feature.

The control panel will show you all the preselected settings, so you don’t have to guess the temperature or the modes you have selected. While you can use the mechanical control, the AC comes with a remote control that you can use to adjust the various setting.

An auto-restart function allows the unit to automatically resume operation with its previous settings when power is restored or when you turn the unit back on.

A built-in thermostat will ensure the AC precisely maintains preset room temperature. Another way to keep operation simple and hands-free is by taking advantage of the 24-hour On/Off timer.

Maintenance is a breeze with the clean filter alert that notifies you when it’s time to clean the included antibacterial filter responsible for preventing bacteria, odors, and other airborne particles.

You don’t have to worry about pollen and other air impurities because the clean air ionizer and fresh air vent remove them.


3. Koldfront WAC10002WCO Window Air Conditioner

Koldfront 10,000 BTU 115V Window Air Conditioner
  • This Certified Refurbished product is manufacturer refurbished, shows limited or no wear, and includes all original accessories plus a 90-day limited hardware warranty.
  • Finish: White
  • Manufactured By: Koldfront
  • Cooling Area: 450 sq. ft.

Last update on 2023-09-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

There are various cheap window air conditioner options if you choose the Koldfront brand. The Koldfront WAC10002WCO 10,000 BTU 115V Window Air Conditioner is just one of the models, and it can be installed in almost any space that you need.

It fits very well in windows from 23 inches to 36 inches wide with a minimum height of 15.5 inches.

This compact window AC has 8,000 BTUs cooling power that should enough to cool rooms up to 350 square feet. Since it has a slightly high cooling capacity, you might think that it’s not energy efficient.

Well, you should be happy because it’s energy rated and equipped with multiple energy-saving features to keep you comfortable and your power bill low.

Some of these features include an energy saver mode that helps you eliminate unnecessary energy waste by recycling on and off and a fan-only mode that circulates gentle air at a low speed, ensuring energy is not wasted.

The programmable thermostat enables you to set your preferred temperature between 62° – 86°F. The delay timer automatically turns the air conditioner on or off up in 1-hour increments up to 24 hours in advance.

Instead of the mechanical control, you can take advantage of the remote control to adjust the temperature settings and switch between operation modes from up to 16 feet away.

The control panel comes with a digital display that will show you all the settings and operating modes, while the LED filter alert will let you know when it’s time to change your filters.


4. SPT WA-1222S: 12,000BTU Window AC with Energy Star

SPT WA-1222S 12000 BTU Window Air Conditioner
  • 3 fan speeds; Modes: Dry, Auto, Energy Saver, Sleep
  • Top air discharge; Fresh Air Vent for air circulation and odor removal
  • Thermostat controlled energy saver; Electronic controls with digital display
  • Auto Restart feature
  • Up to 24 hours timer setting

Last update on 2023-09-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The SPT WA-1222S is the right window air conditioner for your home if you want to save money without sacrificing quality, convenience, and efficiency.

It’s a powerful unit with 12,000 BTUs recommended for rooms from 450-550 square feet. However, some customers have reported that it can serve 700 square feet of rooms without any problems.

When purchasing an air conditioner, note the various features and identify what you need and what you don’t. Most air conditioners with several features are usually expensive.

However, the SPT WA-1222S is the type of AC that offers many features at a very affordable price.

It has three fan speeds, so you can choose the settings according to your cooling needs. The Auto mode will automatically maintain your ideal room temperature.

The cool mode will lower your indoor temperature to as low as 62 degrees Fahrenheit, while the dry mode will extract moisture from the air as the aAC cools your home. It removes 3.2 pints of moisture per hour.

An EER rating of 11.3 means that it is an efficient window air conditioner. It will use less electricity to cool your home, resulting in significant savings on your yearly cooling costs.

If you have double-hung windows, make sure they have a minimum width of 23 inches and a maximum width of 36 inches. If you have vertical casement windows ac, make sure they have a minimum of 15.5 inches in width.


5. Midea Window Air Conditioner 12000 BTU Easycool AC

Last update on 2023-09-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Midea is one of the world’s largest providers of air conditioning products. They offer various options, but Midea Window Air Conditioner 12000 BTU Easycool AC is a top contender for alleviating unwanted hot spots throughout your home.

The company backs up the product by offering one-year parts and labor warranty.

Rated at 12, 000 BTU, this unit is ideal for rooms up to 550 square feet. It also offers dual functionality by dehumidifying your space, removing up to 1.8 pints of excess moisture over the course of an hour.

You can also turn on the fan mode to circulate the cold and reduce energy.

This window unit installs easily without significant modification to the existing window frame. It comes with the necessary mounting accessories plus an instruction manual to guide you through the installation process.

The good thing is that it is compatible with standard double-hung windows with opening widths from 21″ to 35″ and a minimum height of 12″.

Convenient features such as the Eco Energy-Saver function help you eliminate unnecessary energy waste, while the integrated thermostat and rotary compressor supply a temperature range of 62-89°F.

Featuring a 24-hour timer, a sleep mode, a clear LED display on the front panel, and remote control, Midea Window Air Conditioner would be a smart addition to your home.

Benefits Of Cheap Window Air Conditioners

If you don’t have a central unit installed, you still have many options to maintain a comfortable temperature in your home during the summer.

These include portable AC, window AC, through-the-wall AC, and ductless mini-split systems. Why should you choose window air conditioners? What are its benefits compared to other options?

Here are some of the reasons why you should choose window air conditioners.

Affordable

Window air conditioners are available at affordable prices compared to ductless AC and central units. Their prices can range from as little as a few $100 and go as high as $2000.

The price difference is determined by the unit’s cooling capacity, features, and brand.

Apart from the upfront cost, window air conditioners are also affordable to operate and maintain. All you have to do is schedule regular maintenance and keep the filters clean.

This may cost approximately $20 to $40 a month compared to central cooling systems’ operating cost of about $100 to $200.

It’s always important to consider the operating and maintenance cost of your home cooling and heating units. The cost of an air conditioner doesn’t stop at the initial purchase.

Find out how much replacement filters cost and how often you’ll be required to replace them. The costs add up fast, especially if the filters need to be replaced frequently.

Easy to Install

Unlike ductless air conditioners, through the wall AC and a central unit, window air conditioners are easy to install.

Even if you don’t consider yourself to be handy, you can follow the manufacturer’s instructions to mount the unit yourself.

However, the installation process always depends on the model you choose.

Most window air conditioners come with installation kits, so you don’t have to spend more money. If the installation kit is sold separately, you’ll incur an extra cost.

Extremely Energy Efficient

This is one of the major advantages of window air conditioners. Since heating and cooling are some of the largest energy expenses in many homes in the United States, it’s always important to choose energy-efficient units, and window air conditioners offer just that.

It’s common to find window air conditioners with high EER (the amount of energy a unit requires to cool a particular room size) than portable ACs, making them more efficient.

They have not only a higher EER but also other energy-saving features such as a programmable thermostat, energy saver mode, a timer.

When shopping for a window air conditioner, make sure it’s energy star-certified, which means it’s been inspected and confirmed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to be an energy-efficient product.

Doesn’t Take up Floor Space

Window air conditioners are designed to fit inside a window. Installing such a unit means you get to save a lot of floor space that can be used for other things.

This is particularly important if you live in a tiny house and looking to reduce the number of appliances on the floor.

Great for Supplemental Cooling

Central air conditioners are arguably the best type of air conditioner to install if you want to cool the whole house — however, most of the time, you might not use all of the rooms.

Purchasing a window air conditioner to supplement your central air conditioner is a strategy you can use to save money on your electric bills while maintaining your desired temperature in a room where you spend most of your time.

Multi-functional for Year-Round Use

The primary function of air conditioners is to cool. Many homeowners use them when the temperature becomes unbearable in the summer. During winter, they are stored, waiting for the next summer season.

Air conditioner manufacturers have introduced multi-functional units that can double as heaters. This dual function makes these units great investments for year-round use.

Some window air conditioners also come with in-built anti-microbial or HEPA filters; therefore able to purify your space.

These units will not only cool your room but also improve the quality of air by reducing odors, dust, allergens and other allergens that pollute indoor air.

Features to Look For in a Window Air Conditioner

Even on a tight budget, you need to consider all the extra features that you may need in a window air conditioner to keep your home cool.

  • Thermostat: Having control over the cooling output is something that matters a lot. If you experience inconsistent temperatures where you live, you need to choose a unit with a programmable thermostat to maintain your desired temperature. Keep in mind that some units have digital/programmable thermostats while others have mechanical thermostats.
  • Adjustable fan speed: The fan’s speed determines the rate at which your space cools down and how loud the unit will be. It’s a good idea to choose a window air conditioner with multiple fan speeds so that you can select a lower, quieter fan speed at night and a higher fan speed during the day.
  • Remote: It’s not always convenient to operate a window air conditioner using mechanical controls. Choose a device with a remote so you can operate it from anywhere within the room.
  • Programmable timer: Leaving your AC running throughout the day is not a good idea. You’ll end up paying huge electricity bills at the end of the month. A programmable timer allows you to turn the AC on when you need your room cool or off when you’re away. The AC, therefore, only operates when you need it.
  • Air direction control: Some window air conditioner models have adjustable louvers that allow you to direct cool air to the areas that need it most, eliminating hot spots in your room. This feature lets you cool your space without having the unit blowing air directly on people.
  • Energy star rating: Different people utilize air conditioners differently. Whether a window AC will be your primary cooling system or not, you should choose an Energy Star-rated air conditioner. They are 15% more efficient than those that are not Energy Star.
  • Filter type: Filters are responsible for preventing air pollution in your home as well as protecting your window air conditioner from small particles that may try to find their way inside the unit. Do you want to be replacing your filters from time to time when they have worn out, or do you want long-lasting, washable air filters? Both have their advantages and disadvantages.

If you’re still interested in finding the best cheap window air conditioner under $100 – please visit your local stores to examine the refurbished or used units yourself.

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AUTHOR
Ronald Watford, the owner of Quality Home Air Care, is a qualified HVACR technician and manages the team of expert writers on this site. He believes that educating homeowners about HVAC systems is one of the most impactful aspects of his job.