Keeping cool shouldn't cost a billion. And while the weather is changing and the hottest months are over, air conditioners are a must during those awkward in-between days of late summer and early autumn.  

If you want to stop waking up all sweaty in the middle of the night and don't want to spend your whole paycheck on an A/C unit, there are plenty of cheap air conditioners you can buy. 

Also:The best smart thermostats

scoured the market and found the best cheap air conditioners under$400, so you can cool off for less. While some of the picks on this list have original prices over$400, they will normally have sales or deals that cut the price down, well below$400. Our top pick is theWindmill Air Conditioner due to its smart home capabilities and features. However, if you prefer a simpler A/C, read on to find other budget-friendly options from Black+Decker, Whynter, and more. 

The best cheap air conditioners of 2023 

Windmill Air Conditioner

Best cheap air conditioner overall

• Simple installation
• Useful app
• Smart home compatible

• Limited cooling area
• Not compatible with all systems

Windmill features: Power:8,000 BTUSpace size:MediumPrice:$415 (but constantly on sale for less)

The Windmill Air Conditioner may not be the cheapest on our list, but it is our top pick given the fully loaded benefits this model provides. It is a smart air conditioner that goes right into your window and comes ready to go right out of the box, so you can save the time and headache of set-up with the help of instructive guide included for easy installation. 

The unit comes with 8,000 BTU power, giving a bit more than the average air conditioner, so it's enough to cool down a medium-sized space. That in itself offers far greater flexibility in where you can use it and still feel the cooling effects. It is also the quietest machine on our list, as soft as the evaCHILL that is a fraction of its size. 

It is also Wi-Fi-enabled and connects to a convenient app that easily works with your Android or iPhone device, allowing you the option to control the unit remotely. With an auto-dimming LED display, you can use Google Assistant or Amazon's Alexa to control the unit by voice. In case you're not completely satisfied with your purchase, the air conditioner comes with a 30-day, no questions asked return policy. 

Black+Decker Portable Air Conditioner with Remote Control

Best cheap air conditioner for small rooms

• Built-in dehumidifier and fan
• Sleep mode and timer
• Washable filter

• Set up can be difficult
• Not ideal for larger spaces

Black+Decker Portable Air Conditioner features: Power:8,000 BTUSpace size:up to 350 square feet  Price:$420 (but constantly on sale for cheaper)

The Black+Decker Portable Air Conditioner with Remote Control is a great pick for those smaller rooms, like your bedroom or office. The unit is designed for areas no larger than 350 square feet for maximum performance. It is a corded model, so it can only go so far away from your window, but there is a handy remote control that comes included to help you control the unit from across the room. Thanks to an unobtrusive design, it is a compact unit in white that seamlessly blends in with most home decor. 

Still, this air conditioner packs in some extra features. It boasts a fan speed that you can easily adjust to your liking with a convenient LED display. The coolest setting will bring the room to a brisk 65