The best air conditioners: LG, GE, and more compared

Midea U MAW08V1QWT specs: BTU: 8,000 | CEER: 15 | Voltage: 115 volts | Decibels: 42 decibels | Wi-Fi: Yes

The Midea U MAW08V1QWT is a nice mid-range, Wi-Fi enabled unit that adds both effective cooling power at 8,000 BTU along with app-controlled convenience. Plus, it only takes three steps to install, promising an easy set-up and power capable of pumping cold air up to 20 feet away-- which is nice especially for larger rooms.

The U-shaped design allows for a much quieter sound that reaches as low as 42dB -- the brand says that testing shows that nine of these units still fail to beat the sound of some traditional units. The unique shape also makes it possible for you to both open and close your windows, even with the unit installed, so you do not lose precious use of that single window you may have in your home or office. 

GE ‎AHEC05AC specs: BTU: 5,000 | SEER: 11 | Voltage: 115 volts | Decibels: 56 decibels | Wi-Fi: No

The GE ‎AHEC05AC is an affordable unit suitable for smaller spaces, using its 5,000 BTUs to cool rooms up to 150 square feet. It's a window-mounted unit with a fixed chassis and EZ Mount installation kit, which promotes easy installation.

Even with a small footprint, the unit still packs in 10 different temperature settings and dual cooling settings, which can be managed via an adjustable thermostat. And appropriate for small bedroom or dorm use, it also promotes quiet cooling.

When it comes time to clean, the filter is easy to remove and can be washed for repeated use. 

July Window Air Conditioner specs: BTU: 8,000 | SEER: 11 | Voltage: 115 volts | Decibels: 52 decibels | Wi-Fi: Yes

The July Window Air Conditioner is a sleek unit that promises easy instillation thanks to a special proprietary installation frame, but also offers white glove installation service from Handy if you prefer a no-fuss approach. Once installed, the system is Wi-Fi-enabled, working with both iOS and Android apps for convenient control. You can also use voice commands via Amazon Alexa or Google Home. 

"This A/C is a game-changer in terms of aesthetics," says Josh Mitchell, HVAC expert and owner of Air Conditioner Lab "It's not just functional; when I installed it in a client's studio apartment, it blended right into the contemporary decor, unlike traditional A/C units that can stand out."

To add more style and flair, you can choose from multiple customization options for your unit: you have the ability to personalize your July Window Air Conditioner with a number of custom items, like advanced filters and upgraded side panels. 

To get started, there is a 30-day trial and a one-year warranty with purchase. It's a purchase you can feel good about, too, with two-thirds fewer emissions and 10% less energy used compared to other similarly-sized traditional window air conditioners.

LG LP1419IVSM specs: BTU: 10,000 | SEER: 10.14 | Voltage: 115 volts | Decibels: 52 decibels | Wi-Fi: Yes

With 10,000 BTUs, a cooling capacity accommodating up to 500 square feet, and three different fan settings, the LG LP1419IVSM air conditioner may be portable, but it is still effective at cooling medium to larger areas. Additionally, a 24-hour timer that is easily programmable to on and off modes, reverting to "Sleep Mode" when the unit doesn't need to actively cool an area (which can save you some extra money).  

"The LG LP1419IVSM is a portable air conditioner that you can move around based on your cooling needs," says  Maria Opre, a tech expert at Earth Web. "Its dual inverter technology ensures efficient cooling, while keeping energy consumption low."

The included LCD remote controls the unit for greater convenience and is Wi-Fi-capable with SmartThinQ technology to work with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. 

Windmill Air Conditioner Smart Home 8300 BTU AC specs: BTU: 8,300 | SEER: 6.2 | Voltage: 115 volts | Decibels: 50 decibels | Wi-Fi: Yes

The Windmill Air Conditioner Smart Home 8300 BTU AC is a popular pick when you want an air conditioner for your smart home. A clean, auto-dimming LED display makes for a streamlined look. You can easily control the unit through the included remote, or you can use your voice via Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. When you use the app, you have the ability to control your A/C from anywhere without the need to be right at the unit. 

"Most ACs I've tried struggled to maintain a steady temperature across the room," says Kelly Indah, a huge fan (pun intended) of using this unit in her home. 

The unit covers a decent area of 350 square feet, blowing air at a 45-degree angle for better coverage. It is also incredibly energy-efficient, thanks to its use of improved R32 refrigerant. 

LG Dual Inverter Smart Wi-Fi Air Conditioner specs: BTU: 9,500 | SEER: 13.8 | Voltage: 115 volts | Decibels: 58 decibels | Wi-Fi: Yes

The LG Dual Inverter Smart Wi-Fi Air Conditioner is a 9,500-BTU powerhouse, combined with smart technology to make this the best smart air conditioner to buy. Plus, it doesn't compromise performance for style. 

"[The LG dual inverter air conditioner] provides a pleasant and cozy ambiance in my room due to its excellent cooling performance," Daniel Ufland, the co-founder of Flitch and an interior styling expert, told ZDNET. "The modern design easily matches the aesthetic of my space, and the air-purifying function maintains a clean, fresh atmosphere."

Users can choose from four different cooling and fan speeds with Auto Cool working as your own custom control. The energy efficiency is an added bonus, earning you up to 15% in energy savings with its Energy Star raring. LG's DUAL Inverter technology means your A/C unit can dip as low as 44 decibels when resting and 58 decibels when running.