5 Best Smart Portable Air Conditioners with Alexa (2025)

In this post, I share my picks for the best smart portable air conditioners to help you beat the heat-while lowering energy costs.

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Portable ACs Are Getting Smarter

I recently moved into a new apartment with side-to-side sliding windows. While I technically could install a traditional window unit vertically-like some of my neighbors here-I really didn’t love the idea.

My place overlooks the ocean, and the last thing I wanted was to block the view with a big chunk of plastic. At the same time, I knew I needed to vent something outside-so I started researching alternatives.

That led me straight into the world of smart portable ACs. These are standalone units on wheels that vent through a hose, and they’ve come a long way. Some even let you control the fan speed and temperature from your phone or with Alexa.

And with the portable air conditioner market projected to hit $1.42 billion by 2030, according to Data Bridge Market Research, it’s clear I’m not the only one making the switch.

As a small smart home blogger, I didn’t have the budget to test all five units, but I bought two of them and did serious research on the rest to confidently narrow it down to these top picks.

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Smart Portable AC Comparison Table (Top 5 Units)

The following table compares the best smart portable air conditioners with Alexa side by side.

Last update on 05/23/2025 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Notes (For Anyone New to BTUs & Cooling Size)

• BTU = Power: The higher the BTU, the more powerful the AC. More BTUs = cools larger rooms.
• SEER = Efficiency: SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. It measures how efficiently an AC cools over a full season. A higher SEER means better energy efficiency and lower electricity use.
• Coverage Can Vary: Some brands list a range to account for different room conditions like sunlight, insulation, or high ceilings.
• Check the SACC Rating: SACC (Seasonally Adjusted Cooling Capacity) is the DOE’s newer, more accurate measure of real-world performance. For example, Midea lists 12,000 BTU (ASHRAE) but only 8,000 BTU (SACC)-a better reflection of actual cooling.

If you’re new to smart portable air conditioners, I’ve put together a fun and helpful sizing and buying guide below. You can click this link to jump straight to it. But I’m leading with hands-on product reviews for those who already know what they’re looking for.

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#1 – KOVIET: Smart Power

I bought and tested this one myself, and it impressed me right away. The KOVIET is one of the best smart portable air conditioners if you want fast, strong cooling in a larger room. It uses a single-hose system, which is typical for most portable units, and it was easy to install with the included window panels and exhaust hose.

While I ultimately returned this model in favor of my second pick below, this is my top recommendation for anyone who wants serious power. It was simply too powerful for my living room and cooled it down faster than I needed. The smart features worked reliably, including app scheduling and voice commands via Alexa. Compared to many window air conditioners, setup was quicker and didn’t require permanent installation or extra tools.

Where to Get It

The KOVIET Smart Portable Air Conditioner is available on Amazon with fast delivery and easy returns.

Video Review

This demo shows the setup process, app controls, and how it sounds while running.

🎥 Video Credit: KOVIET

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#2 – Midea: Budget Beast

This is the model I ended up keeping-and for my space, it’s the best overall pick. The Midea is one of the best smart portable air conditioners if you’re cooling a single room and don’t want to overdo it. It runs quietly, fits easily under a window, and delivers consistent cool air without spiking electricity use.

I tested this in my living room, and it cooled the space comfortably without ever overwhelming it like the KOVIET did. The SmartHome app lets you schedule cooling times and adjust the room temperature remotely, and it plays well with both Alexa and Google. If you’re looking to replace your window units with a more energy-efficient and modern alternative, this is a great place to start.

Where to Get It

The Midea Smart Portable Air Conditioner is available on Amazon with fast delivery and easy returns.

Video Review

Covers setup, app features, and real-world cooling results.

🎥 Video Credit: The DIY HVAC Guy

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#3 – Dreo AC515S: Smart Quiet Cooling

If low noise levels are your top priority, the Dreo AC515S is one of the best smart portable air conditioners I tested in this category. It runs at just 46 dB, making it a solid choice for a bedroom, home office, or nursery. Like many single-hose models, it’s best suited for smaller spaces, but it handled my 400 sq ft test room with ease.

It has a sleek control panel and a polished app with solid scheduling options. You get support for Alexa and Google, and the auto-evaporation system means no messy draining in cool mode. This is a good alternative to something like the LG portable air conditioner, especially if you want quieter operation without sacrificing powerful cooling.

Where to Get It

The Dreo AC515S is available on Amazon with fast delivery and easy returns.

Video Review

Quick overview of performance, app setup, and quiet operation.

🎥 Video Credit: Eli Euley

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#4 – LG: For Smaller Spaces

The LG is one of the best smart portable air conditioners for cooling smaller rooms with limited floor space. It’s a great pick for a home office, guest room, or apartment that doesn’t need a ton of power. I didn’t test this one personally, but based on specs and verified feedback, it’s designed to move hot air out efficiently without draining too much power.

The LG ThinQ App gives you remote control of fan speed, cooling mode, and temperature. Like most single-hose models, it’s best for enclosed spaces – not large open-concept layouts. That said, the design is clean and low-profile, and it includes a high-efficiency filter, making it a smart alternative to bulkier window units.

This isn’t the quietest unit in the lineup, but it’s a top pick for those who prioritize energy efficiency, compatibility, and convenience over raw power. If you’re not cooling an entire building or battling all-day heat, it’s the right portable AC for the job.

Where to Get It

The LG portable air conditioner is available on Amazon with fast shipping and standard return options.

Video Review

🎥 Video Credit: Alfredo Diaz

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#5 – Dreo IceWind: Cooling Tower Alternative

This isn’t your traditional portable AC. The Dreo IceWind is an evaporative cooler – think of it as a high-end smart fan that simulates cool air by using water and airflow instead of refrigerant. It’s not going to replace a BTU portable air conditioner for large rooms or extreme heat, but for light-duty cooling in dry climates, it’s a legit option.

I didn’t test this one hands-on, but the tech specs are solid: a 6L water reservoir, app control, 85° oscillation, and ultra-low ambient noise. It’s whisper-quiet and efficient – an ideal pick if you’re just trying to stay comfortable in a small room or office without pushing a full unit’s electricity use.

If you’ve looked at products like the EcoFlow Wave or older free-standing air conditioners, this has similar appeal with far less hassle. It’s also worth noting: there’s no dual-hose system, no exhaust hose, and no setup beyond adding water. That alone makes it one of the easiest units to get running.

Where to Get It

The Dreo IceWind is available on Amazon and ships quickly for Prime members.

Video Review

Covers unboxing, fan speed settings, and mobile app features.

🎥 Video Credit: Whynter

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How to Choose the Best Smart Portable Air Conditioners

Choosing the best smart portable air conditioners comes down to two key things-and a few smart extras.

Thing 1: Know Your BTU Rating

Every unit’s BTU (British Thermal Units) should match the square footage of your space. Too small, and it won’t keep up. Too large, and it may waste energy or cause humidity issues.

Quick guide for portable models:

• 8,000 BTU – Up to 350 sq. ft. (small bedrooms, offices)
• 10,000 BTU – Up to 450 sq. ft. (mid-sized rooms)
• 12,000 BTU – Up to 550 sq. ft. (living rooms, larger bedrooms)
• 14,000 BTU – Up to 700 sq. ft. (open layouts, larger spaces)

Look for the seasonally adjusted cooling capacity (SACC)-the Department of Energy standard that reflects actual performance.

Example: A 12,000 BTU unit with a SACC of 8,000 is really suited for about 350 sq. ft.

Thing 2: Single vs. Dual Hose Design

All portable units push warm air out a window, but how they do it matters.

• Single-hose units: Most common, easier to install, best for smaller rooms. But they can pull in outside air, reducing efficiency.
• Dual-hose systems: More efficient, especially in larger spaces or during a long run. They reduce negative pressure and cool faster.

Either way, look for models with window panels, a self-evaporating system, and easy setup.

Other “Things” to Consider

Before choosing one of the best smart portable air conditioners, ask yourself:

• Do you want Alexa, Google, or app control?
• Will it go in a bedroom, living room, or shared space?
• Is noise level or energy consumption a top concern?
• Would a 3-in-1 portable air conditioner with fan mode or dehumidifier mode be more useful?

Many top models like Honeywell portable air conditioners or the LG LP series include programmable timers, sleep mode, and quiet operation-perfect for anyone replacing a window AC or supplementing central air conditioning.

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FAQ: Portable ACs and Smart Cooling

If you’re shopping for the best smart portable air conditioners, you probably have questions about venting, hose types, and power usage. Below are five of the most helpful answers based on real-world feedback and expert discussions-ideal for anyone looking to get more out of their cooling setup.

1. Can I extend the exhaust hose of my portable AC?

It’s not recommended. Extending the hose of a portable air conditioner can trap hot air, reduce cooling efficiency, and overwork the compressor. Most models, including the best portable air conditioners, are designed for specific hose lengths. Modifying that setup could void warranties and compromise airflow. Stick with the included hose whenever possible.

2. Do all portable air conditioners require venting?

Yes. Every portable AC-whether it’s a Decker BPACT or newer inverter model-must vent hot air outside. That’s how the unit cools your room rather than circulating warm air. Even the best smart portable air conditioners rely on exhaust hoses to function properly. Venting through a window, wall, or sliding door is essential for performance.

3. What’s the difference between single-hose and dual-hose portable AC units?

Single-hose units pull in room air and exhaust hot air, which can create negative pressure. Dual-hose systems use one hose to pull in outdoor air and another to push out heat. Dual-hose models-like many of the best portable AC units-are better for larger square feet and improve cooling speed and energy efficiency.

4. How do I determine the right BTU rating for my room?

To find the right portable AC, multiply your room’s square feet by 20. For example, a 300 sq. ft. bedroom needs at least 6,000 BTUs. Larger spaces with high ceilings or sun exposure need more. A best smart portable air conditioner matched to your space avoids wasted energy and improves comfort.

5. Are there energy-efficient portable air conditioners?

Yes. Look for smart air conditioners with inverter compressors, programmable timers, and eco modes. These use less energy while maintaining comfort. Unlike older models, today’s units often meet updated AC efficiency standards. While not every model includes a solar panel, many are far more efficient than central air conditioners in single-room use.

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Verdict: Which Portable AC Is Right for You?

After comparing and testing five standout models, these truly represent the best smart portable air conditioners for real-world use. Whether you’re cooling a large space or just need something quieter for your bedroom, there’s a smart option here that fits.

• Go with KOVIET if you want serious cooling power for larger rooms (up to 700 sq. ft.).
• Go with Midea or Dreo AC515S if you need reliable cooling for medium-sized rooms with quieter operation and smart scheduling.
• Go with LG if you want a compact solution for smaller rooms and trust a well-known brand with solid app support.
• Go with Dreo IceWind if you want a vent-free alternative to traditional portable ACs – ideal for dry climates or light-duty use.

Whichever you choose, you’ll be getting a versatile portable air conditioner that’s easier to use, more efficient, and better suited to modern living than the old-school alternatives.

All product links are included above for quick reference.

Not convinced that a portable air conditioner is right for you? Check out this article I wrote on the best smart window air conditioners that work with Alexa and Google.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Tim Brennan, a tech blogger and host of the @TecTimmy YouTube channel, writes about smart homes at oneSmartcrib, home theaters at UniversalRemoteReviews, and AI in writing at Writeinteractive. He holds a Journalism degree from Northeastern University and has covered technology for three decades. He lives on the ocean in Nahant, Massachusetts.