Last Updated: February 27, 2024
Whether you’re resting or working, a certain level of air comfort is necessary to do either properly. Neither too hot nor too cool an atmosphere is conducive to the best experience. For this reason, so many air comfort devices, be it air purifiers, humidifiers, dehumidifiers, or AC’s, etc., have seen increasing demand over the year. Consequently, there have been numerous advancements in design and performance to better suit a wide range of customer bases.
Portable Air Conditioners are among the widely used air comfort devices, and their popularity seems to be growing as they provide users with their own comfort space.
Generally speaking, the technology used in these devices is powerful and eco-friendly than central air conditioners or even the window- mountable air conditioners and help users achieve the cooling effect with ease. These devices offer better control over performance to users as well.
See also:
Air Conditioners come in various designs and differ based on coverage, features, etc. In this article, we’ll be discussing desktop AC models and how users can choose the best options in the sea of choices. But, before we do that, let’s discuss why desktop AC’s are a good idea!.
Why Desktop ACs?
Desktop Ac’s, as compared to bigger central air-conditioning units, or other options, are preferred by many for a couple of reasons –
- The compact and portable design of desktop Ac’s is one of the main attractions of these devices. You can easily change the placement of these units based on your requirements. Modern portable AC’s has evolved in their construction to allow for proper coverage, safety, and better overall performance.
- Unlike central air conditioning, installing, placing, and handling these devices is not hard. With plenty of innovative features(i.e., auto shut-off, remote control, etc.), use is very comfortable and safe. With regular maintenance, the desktop AC’s can make your space feel pleasant for a long time.
- These devices also act as a humidifier and help add moisture to the atmosphere, preventing dry skin, breathing problems, static electricity buildup, etc. You don’t need to buy a humidifier separately if you’re using a portable AC unit.
- Central AC’s are very effective cooling aids, but they can consume considerable amounts of energy. Sometimes, when you only need to cool a small portion of the house, let’s say your bedroom, turning on the central AC system can be heavy on your pocket. A compact desktop model is ideal for smaller spaces, and you can move it effortlessly to cool occupied space at any time.
These are some of the reasons why a desktop AC unit might be a good idea for you.
Workings of a Desktop AC Unit
A desktop AC is usually different than refrigerant-based air conditioners and uses a separate cooling mechanism. It is a much simpler and eco-friendly choice and is also a more cost-effective option. Here’s how these devices work –
- Unlike refrigerant-based AC’s which circulate refrigerant to pump heat from inside the house to the outside, desktop AC’s usually use water to cool the area.
- Water goes onto the pads (via an internal pump), and the heat from the hot air that enters goes into the water and enables evaporation.
- These devices work with electrical energy, and the electricity passes to the pump, which pumps water onto the pads, and then energy passes to the fan, which blows out cool air into the room.
In a nutshell, this is how desktop AC’s usually work. Now, let’s look at the factors needed to consider before buying one for yourself.
Buying the ideal Desktop AC unit: A Buyer’s Guide
Manufacturer
First and foremost, the source of your chosen desktop Ac needs to be a quality name. A good manufacturer has users in mind, and the products are durable, dependable, and provide quality output. Having a good name behind your product also gives you quality customer care, timely updates on products, warranties, and more.
Design Considerations
The design of your desktop AC can vary based on its shape, size, appearance, and other such factors, and you can choose something that can adjust into your desired space, be it your office, bedroom, living room, or anywhere else. These devices may also vary depending on the mechanism in use. There may be color considerations, and so on. Desktop AC’s are usually easily portable and come with handles, rollers, etc., to make moving easier on users.
Ease of use
Most newer desktop AC’s come with convenient controls, even remote control, and users should choose something they feel will be comfortable for them. Take a good look at the features the AC has to offer and try for something that falls into your winning space. Whether a unit is self-evaporative or you need to empty it: whether it features a bladeless fan or with blades, how much noise does it make, does it come with a remote control option, is the window mount kit along with it, etc., are also some questions you can ask while looking.
Maintenance is also a concern, and you can get a unit that you can take care of if need be.
Efficiency and Safety
safety should also be on your primary checklist. Make sure the product is well-tested and properly certified by the right boards. Features like auto shut-off, and various alerts, are also desirable in your ideal pick.
Although desktop AC units consume less energy than many other portable AC’s, it is possible to find a more efficient model among numerous models available for you. Look for something that can save you some money on your bill.
Budget
Various factors such as manufacturer, coverage capacity, efficiency, special features, etc., determine the overall price of a desktop AC unit. You can select the best options which have all the features you require, and then you can shortlist them according to your budget. There are plenty of excellent options available in different price ranges, and you can pick the one which suits your pocket the best.
Now let’s have a look at some of the best desktop AC units available for you –
1. Evapolar evaCHILL Personal Air Conditioner and Fan
Special Features: Compact and stylish design, Three in one operation, Quiet and efficient functioning, and more.
This stylish, lightweight desktop AC model from Evapolar is quite popular and is deserving of its accolades. It is well-made, with high-quality material, and doesn’t contain any organic material (so it doesn’t rot). It looks fabulous in your office, bedroom, or any other space you’re sitting. It can cool approximately 45 sq. ft. in front of it.
The device offers three-in-one operation to users as it purifies, cools, and humidifies your personal space. You don’t need to worry about an additional humidifier unit for yourself. You can fill, refill the tank and plug in the device to operate it with ease. The control ad is easy to understand and control. It is also quiet and doesn’t interfere with your routine.
It is a safe option for users as well, as there are no Freon-like liquids used. The evaporative pads are fully biodegradable and do not cause any mess for the environment. It has a leakage-free system, and you can refill it without worrying about drippings on the floor.
Why buy this device?
This desktop AC comes from a well-established brand, i.e., Evapolar, and is a stylish, effective, and efficient model. It is one of the most well-reviewed models and has received mentions from reputable publications like Forbes, The Guardian, TNW, and Business Insider.
It is expensive for a desktop AC: however, it provides quality performance and more than makes up for its pricing.
2. Evapolar EvaLIGHT Plus EV-1500 Personal Air Conditioner
Special Features: Stylish design, Compact, lightweight, Tripple operation, Quiet and efficient, Portable.
Another great product from Evapolar, this lightweight desktop AC is a stylish addition to your personal space. It features filters with patented Evabreeze material that has inorganic nanofibers (as compared to cellulose-based filters). It can cool up to 45 sq. ft. in front of it effectively.
The device gives users triple action: Purifier, Cooler, and humidifier, and keeps your personal space comfortable. It is easy to operate with easy to figure out control pad. You can fill, refill the tank and plug in the device to work with ease. It has a silent operation and isn’t a bother to you while you work or sleep.
There are no Freon-like liquids used in the device, making it a safe choice. It features a leak-proof system and doesn’t spill while you refill. The evaporative pads used in the device biodegradable and environmentally friendly.
Why buy this device?
Evapolar is a trusted name, and this device is another stylish and efficient addition from their catalog. Their products are rated well by consumers and provide satisfactory performance.
Like its predecessor from Evapolar on the list, it is a bit expensive; however, it is a worthy investment for personal comfort.
3. cfmour Portable Air Conditioner Fan
Special Features: Compact Design, Quiet and Efficient, Ease of Use, Portable.
It is a compact model that works well for your personal space. It is well-made and can cover up to six feet in front of it. It is quick-action, and you can add spices to the water to get fragrance in your cooled air.
It is easy to operate the device, and you can place it wherever you are. There are three fan modes to choose from, and the unit features a water catcher (drip tray), and you can gather and reuse the water when humidifying. Your surface will not be wet when the device is in use.
With the included adapter, you can plug in the device and start using it. The device has a 420 ml water tank, and the fan can cool your space for up to 4-6 hours. It is an ideal option for offices, pet areas, living rooms, or any other place (with a power outlet) you prefer to spend time.
Why buy this device?
This desktop AC is an efficient, safe, and easy to use device which features a drip tray for collecting water that comes in use for humidification. It is easy to refill, and there are no issues of spilling on the floor. It is a cost-effective solution and eco-friendly solution for users.
4. HAUEA Personal Portable Air Conditioning Fan
Special Features: Stylish Design, Compact, Ring-shaped fog outlet, Silent and Efficient Operation, Easy to use, Portable.
This HAUEA product is an excellent desktop unit that comes with a stylish design and provides effective cooling. It can cover 3- 4 ft of area in front of it, but as it is a personal AC fan, it doesn’t have a reach of more than that.
It is an easy-to-operate device with simple controls. Users can adjust the performance of this device according to their liking, using the three wind speeds and two levels of fog volume (low, high). It has a power rating of 17.5 W and is an environmentally friendly and efficient unit. With the leather handle, you can conveniently move the AC wherever you want.
It provides three in one operation, and users get a mini air conditioner, table fan, and a humidifier, all in one device. The humidifier option uses ultrasonic atomization technology to atomize water to humidify the air.
The device features a 600 ml, large capacity tank, which continuously humidifies the air for up to six hours. It is easy to pull in or out the tank, to fill it with water or ice directly. There’s also a 2/ hour timer function on the air cooler, and you can set it to avoid unwanted use.
The unit comes with a seven-colored LED light, and you can choose amongst these colors to set the atmosphere according to your taste. The cooler adopts a ring-shaped fog-outlet design, which is more uniform than a single hole and cools the air faster.
Why buy this unit?
It is an aesthetically pleasing, silent, and powerful desktop AC that comes reasonably priced. It provides triple action (cooler, fan, humidifier), three wind speeds, and two mist gears. The tank is considerable (600 ml) for typical desktop models and is easy to refill. Overall, it is an excellent choice for a desktop AC.
5. AUZKIN Portable Air Conditioner
Special Features: Compact desktop design, Quiet and efficient operation, Ultrasound cool spray technology, Night Light, Three fan speeds, and more.
This compact and portable desktop AC from AUZKIN is an excellent option for your workplace, living room, bedroom, etc., and you can move it whenever you want, where ever you want, with ease.
The device is easy to operate and features three wind speeds (high, medium, low) you can choose from and set the performance to your liking. The fan rotating speed can go up to 4000RMP, and the maximum wind speed reaches 3.5m/s. The wind direction is also adjustable, and the device can oscillate 60 degrees or 120 degrees.
It is an efficient model with a power consumption of only 8W/h, ideal for personal use. It uses ultrasonic atomization technology and atomizes that water into ultra-fine water molecules. The device cools your air and also humidifies it.
The device works quietly and does not become a nuisance while you work, converse, or relax. If you’re using it in your bedroom, you can turn the nightlight on to create a soothing atmosphere.
The tank is high-quality, and you can add ice cubes to the water directly. You can also add essential oils to the water (which in many models you can’t) without damaging the material and enjoy, cool, humidified, fragrant atmosphere.
Why buy this device?
It is a compact device and can be less effective if you’re looking for more extensive coverage, but it is an ideal desktop AC and a perfect personal air-care product. It is compact and easy to move and operate and can also humidify your personal space. This desktop version works silently and efficiently to bring you the best performance.
6. GeMitSee Portable Space Air Conditioner, Personal Air Cooler
Special Features: Compact desktop design, Cost-effective, Cordless, Quiet and efficient functioning, Easily portable, and more.
It is a lightweight, compact desktop AC that you can take with you easily without worrying about the power source. The cordless design ensures the convenience of use, and there’s an easy-grab handle you can use to move it anywhere. It features a 2000mAh rechargeable lithium battery, and you can recharge it simply with mobile devices for power supply (USB type-C fast charging).
It provides ease of operation with three in one action. You can use it for cooling, using ice with water, then there’s the only fan mode, and it is also effective as a humidifier. It is easy to operate with no complicated controls.
The device features a large water tank, and the unit can operate for up to 4-8 hours (depending on the fan- speed). There are three fan speeds (high, medium, low), and you can choose according to your needs.
Why buy this device?
It is a compact, lightweight, easy to port desktop AC with three fan speeds and a cordless design. You can charge its 2000mAh rechargeable lithium battery with a power bank, USB power adapter, PC, desktops, etc. It is a cost-effective, silent, cooling solution, and is easy to operate.
Conclusion
Investing in a desktop AC is a good idea if you’re looking for a cooling solution, which is also easily portable. If you’re in a hot and humid area, these devices may not be as effective, and you may need to invest in alternate options such as bigger (window-mountable) portable AC units.
However, for personal use, a desktop AC is a cost-effective and efficient choice. There is so much variety in the Desktop AC range, and based on our Buyer’s Guide, you can identify your ideal desktop AC with ease.