If you want to make a switch to quieter and more efficient window AC units at your home or office, look no further! As some of my readers know, I got new ACs when I moved to my new house in Florida last May. Since then I replaced two that were too loud.

As you know, I’M SUPER-DUPER SENSITIVE TO NOISE, just like my (much) prettier half, so making sure the ACs are quiet is my top priority. Since then, I’ve also tested a plethora of other models in order to help fellow sweat-hating grumps like yourself find the right AC for your requirements. This top 10 list begins with the quietest AC at number #1 and gets progressively louder (with the decibels included).

A small, but important buyer’s guide: Don’t focus on the noise level alone. Make sure that the window AC you decide on purchasing is strong enough, depending on the room’s size. It’s completely normal and expected that a stronger AC will produce more noise because it has a stronger motor. But if it’s used in a larger room (and you’re not standing too close), it won’t be as noticeable. All of this has been addressed in the reviews, so keep reading! 🙂

1. TaoTronics TT-AC001 (38 dB)

High-capacity ACs are known to make loud noises. Not TaoTronics AC though. I got this unit for my office space, and its 10,000 BTU is doing a good job so far. The TaoTronics unit has a dehumidifier and can operate on a fan-only mode. The air blows in a 4-way direction to give all-around coolness.

Although the weight can make it a little bit hard to install, the control and maintenance are straightforward. It has a LED remote control and a digital display that features smart buttons that you can use to customize the AC. The ‘check filter’ function allows you to keep tabs on the filter, which is removable and very easy to wash.

My unit has two independent motors that make cooling uniform and noise level low. I often run the AC at full blast during the summer, but I have not noticed any particular uptick in my electricity bills.

Pros

• Multiple functionalities
• One-year warranty
• Good for a large space
• Comes with a mounting kit
• High energy efficiency

Cons

• Pricey
• Weak dehumidification
• Doesn’t come with an installation manual

2. Soleus Air Exclusive (42 dB)

When I got the Soleus Air Exclusive AC unit, the U-shaped design was strange to me. It was unlike the standard AC units I was used to, so I was a little bit skeptical about whether it would be any more different than just in shape.

After watching some YouTube videos and reading some DIYs, I was able to install my Soleus AC unit. It fits into my window like a saddle, with the big compressor staying outside and the air cooling unit on the inside. It balances well on the window without needing extra support. With its 8,000 BTU, I now get to enjoy cool air with relative quiet in my living room and kitchen, which is about 340 sq ft altogether.

The condensation in my unit averages about 3 – 5 lb per day. So, you will need to keep tabs on the tank to avoid FL errors. Overall, the Soleus Air Exclusive has been a great buy.

Pros

• Doesn’t take much space
• Low noise level
• Gives a full window view after installation
• High energy efficiency
• 24 hours self-timer duration
• Remote controlled

Cons

• Not ideal for large rooms
• No plug for a drainage hole

3. Midea MAW08V1QWT (42 dB)

This is also a U-shaped AC unit, but this brand comes with its bracket which allows it to sit conveniently without resting on the window sill. Thus, the Midea U Inverter AC exerts less pressure on the window frame.

It wasn’t easy getting the installation out of the way. Even with instructions, it took me close to 3 hours. But things got smoother from there. It runs so quietly that I could barely hear the compressor running. The in-built inverter keeps it going smoothly too, even when the compressor kicks on or the wire trips.

In my experience, the 8000 BTU may not give you much coolness if you are using this version in a large room. Nevertheless, you can control the fan speed with your phone app or set it up for voice control with Amazon Alexa.

Pros

• Auto and eco-modes for energy efficiency
• Custom-built brackets
• Night and sleep modes
• Smart control via Wi-Fi and Virtual Assistants
• Styrofoam blocks to seal air gaps

Cons

• The bracket creates air gaps on the window
• Not easy to install

4. TOSOT Tranquility (42 dB)

The excellence of this AC unit is in the function as much as it is in the name. Slick and easy to install, the packaging was a thing of beauty. It fits into a condo setting like décor and operates with powerful efficiency. The noise, if we could call it that, can best be described as a hum and not something that will disturb your sleep.

At 12.0 EET rating, the TOSOT Tranquility 8000 BTUs will save you a lot on energy cost. While you will need to get expert instructions to install it, you won’t have problems with the controls.

The AC unit has a thermostat that acts as a sensor to auto regulates the unit according to the temperature of the room. They call it the iFeel function and it works really cool. On top of that, you have a battery-powered remote that you can use from the comfort of your couch.

It has adjustable louvers that allow you to adjust wind direction. This could also come in handy if you are like me and you don’t like the air to always blow on your face.

Pros

• Slick design
• Thermostat control
• High energy efficiency
• High cooling capacity

Cons

• Doesn’t come with instructions for installation
• Not ideal for large spaces
• Fragile packing

5. Haier Serenity (43 dB)

The Haier Serenity AC unit does cooling efficiently and quietly. It spares you the usual grinding noise associated with standard air conditioners. The unit comes in 6000 BTU with 115 volts, which is not suitable for large rooms. However, if you want to use it in a small garage or a basement, the Haier Serenity will give you good value for your bucks.

The quietness of the Haier Serenity is based on its excellent design. It uses Cross Flow technology to make the fan run much more smoothly, thereby reducing the noise they generate. The compressor, too, is covered with a noise suppressant blanket to give a high degree of noise reduction.

Also, it has air blowers with small fins which rotate effortlessly within the blower wheel. Nevertheless, condensation is an issue. It produces a lot of water that I have to keep tabs on the water basin plug to avoid water splashing.

Pros

• Quietest at low speed
• High energy efficiency
• Reliable brand
• Ideal for small rooms

Cons

• Low cooling power
• Lack Wi-Fi control
• Styrofoam partition

6. LG Dual Inverter Smart Window AC (44 dB)

This unit excites me for two reasons. One, it uses low energy which affords me some airtime without spiking my electricity bills. Secondly, it has a high cooling capacity with enough voltage power to serve it over a wide space.

However, the large cooling doesn’t reflect on the noise level. At 44 dB, this LG Dual Inverter unit is my new favorite. It is quiet even at full blast.

This unit comes at a steep price though. So, you might have to look for alternatives if you are on a budget. But if you are looking for something quiet, easy-to-operate with little cost on energy, this brand will give you good value for your money.

Pros

• Emits 14,000 BTU
• High energy efficiency
• LED display

Cons

• Not budget-friendly
• Sleeve not provided

7. Frigidaire FHWW083WB1 (50 dB)

The reviews said this model of Frigidaire AC unit was a ‘reliable’ one. Indeed, it has proven to be quite reliable since I’ve been using it for almost 8 months.

After its whirring noise in the first few hours of installation, it has been a smooth ride. This model has Wi-Fi connectivity which can prevent the annoyance of having to leave the bed to change the temperature or look for the remote.

The Frigidaire AC can cool a large or mid-size room with great efficiency. It tends to rattles when the speed is low, so the fan will have to be at a full blast for you to enjoy its quietness. The small disc-shaped fan blades on this unit lean towards the right when they blow which makes air distribution uneven.

You don’t have to worry much about maintenance. This unit has a removable filter mesh that should be cleaned twice a month. The frequency at which you clean yours may be lower depending on where you are, but at least you can rest assured knowing that the maintenance is something you can do in just a few minutes.

Pros

• Easy to install
• High energy efficiency
• Easy to maintain
• Smart connectivity (Wi-Fi and app)

Cons

• No drain
• Some rattling noise at low speed

8. LG LW8017ERSM (52 dB)

LG is known to make good AC units and this one doesn’t disappoint.

I was able to install the unit without any help. Setting up was easy as the AC is fitted with a LED display and a control panel. There is also a filter check reminder that pops up when the washable filter mesh is becoming clogged with dust and algae. However, I didn’t see my current settings while in fan speed and timer modes.

The unit has a rotatory compressor that allows it to run without producing much noise. If you run it at a low speed, you can use it in the bedroom. Another upside is that it’s quite energy efficient and uses the eco-friendly R-32 coolant.

Pros

• Affordable
• Efficient use of energy
• Auto restart after power failure
• Washable filter
• 24 hours on/off timer
• Smart control with App and Wi-Fi

Cons

• Somewhat weak blades

9. Friedrich CP10G10B (54 dB)

This is a brand you should consider if you are looking to get a good AC unit for a budget price. The energy star rating of the Friedrich AC unit is good and the frame is light enough for easy installation (I have some engineering experience).

The 8000 BTU unit I got is remote-controlled and makes the littlest of noises at lower settings. The fan doesn’t rattle as I expected from the slight misalignments I observed in the blades. In fact, it did better with its auto sweep louvers that distribute air consistently across my garage. It keeps the garage cool in no time.

While away, you can place the AC on auto control, which operates on a 24-hour cycle.

Pros

• 10,000 BTU
• Available in different sizes
• High energy efficiency
• Multiple airflow controls
• Easy to maintain
• Affordable

Cons

• Gets loud at higher settings

10. Emerson Quiet Kool (55 dB)

This programmable unit comes in a rust-free body with a washable filter and a control panel with easy-touch buttons. The power cord has a built-in surge protector to safeguard it against tripping wires.

I installed the unit into the old LG sleeve, which sits quietly below my window. Aside from the sunlight that comes in through the mesh, the Emerson Quiet Kool has been quite a darling. It does a good job of covering my entire 350 sq. ft. living room and kitchen with quiet efficiency, while also providing enough warmth for cover during the winter. It remains to be seen how well it will do this summer.

Pros

• Programmable settings
• Remote control
• Eco-mode for energy efficiency
• Good warranty

Cons

• Faulty controls
• Heavy to install
• Lesser known brand
• Sleeve not provided

Final Word

In selecting a window unit, there are a lot of things to factor in your decision. They range from your room size to the AC cooling capacity, energy efficiency, ease of maintenance, and noise levels. I’ve outlined the best options that can really cool up a space while being nice and quiet. Hope this helps!