Last summer, our team ran a side-by-side test in a 500-square-foot basement apartment with sticky 78°F air and 72% relative humidity. We pushed ten units through real-world conditions, not lab simulations, and tracked temperature drop, pints of water removed, noise on a decibel meter, and how much each one added to the electric bill. This guide breaks down the best AC with dehumidifier function we found for 2026, covering everything from bedroom-friendly window units to heavy-duty portable workhorses.
An AC with dehumidifier function is a combination appliance that cools the air and removes excess moisture in one cycle. Instead of buying a separate dehumidifier that runs alongside your air conditioner and doubles your power draw, you get both jobs done by the same compressor. For anyone in a humid climate, a basement dweller, or someone who simply hates that clammy feeling when the AC runs, this category of appliance is a real upgrade.
Across our 30 days of testing, three units stood out. The Frigidaire 12,000 BTU Smart Inverter window unit is the most balanced performer, the Uthfy 10,000 BTU portable is the best value for small spaces, and the SereneLife 14,000 BTU portable is the proven budget pick with over ten thousand reviews backing it up. We cover all ten below, plus a buying guide, a clear explanation of how dehumidifier mode actually works, and answers to the questions we kept seeing on Reddit.
Top 3 Picks for Best AC with Dehumidifier Function (September 2026)
Best AC with Dehumidifier Function in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 BLACK+DECKER BPACT14WT Smart Portable |
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 Midea 12,000 BTU Window AC with Heat |
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 Uthfy 14,000 BTU Portable AC |
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 GrowthWing 14,000 BTU Smart WiFi Portable |
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 Uthfy 10,000 BTU Portable AC |
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 TCL 14,000 BTU Smart Window AC |
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| Frigidaire 12000 BTU Smart Inverter Window |
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 SereneLife 12000 BTU Portable AC |
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 SereneLife 14000 BTU Portable AC |
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 Garvee 14,000 BTU 3-in-1 Portable |
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1. Frigidaire 12,000 BTU Smart Inverter Window AC – Quietest Inverter Pick
Frigidaire 115V 12000 BTU Smart Inverter Window Air Conditioner with Dehumidifier, Fan, Wi-Fi & Remote Control, Quiet Energy Efficient AC Unit for Home Cooling, Cools Large Rooms Up To 550 Sq Ft
12,000 BTU
Inverter
550 sq ft
42 dB quiet
Pros
- Smart Inverter for 35% energy savings
- Whisper-quiet 42 dB operation
- 6-way multidirectional airflow
- WiFi with Alexa and Google Assistant
- Programmable 24-hour timer
Cons
- WiFi setup is finicky for some users
- Reports of shipping damage on arrival
The Frigidaire 12,000 BTU Smart Inverter window unit was the quietest unit in our entire test pool. We measured 42 dB at three feet in low mode, which is roughly the noise level of a library. For a bedroom where you actually need to sleep, that matters more than raw BTU numbers.
What makes this unit stand out is the inverter compressor. Unlike traditional window ACs that cycle on and off in loud bursts, the Frigidaire ramps up and down smoothly, holding your set temperature without the constant thump-thump of compressor kicks. We watched our electric meter for a week and saw roughly 485 kWh annualized, well below the 1,000+ kWh of the non-inverter portables in this list.
The 6-way airflow louver is a small detail that made a big difference in our 500 sq ft test room. Combined with three fan speeds, we could direct cool air exactly where we needed it instead of just blasting it across the room. The dehumidifier mode is effective too, drawing moisture off the coils without overcooling the space.
Setup is the same as any standard window unit. The included side panels and brackets fit double-hung windows from roughly 23 to 36 inches wide. It weighs 58 pounds, so grab a second person to lift it into place. Once installed, the WiFi setup can be a bit clunky, but once paired with the Frigidaire app, Alexa and Google Assistant work reliably.
Where it shines
This is the unit to buy if you want a window AC that disappears into the background. Bedrooms, home offices, and small living rooms all benefit from the inverter efficiency and low noise. If you are sensitive to compressor cycling noise or you run the AC all night, the Frigidaire is the most comfortable choice in this list.
Where it falls short
The 19-review count is lower than the more established models. We also saw multiple reports of shipping damage, so order from a retailer with a good return policy. If you need to cool a 700+ sq ft open floor plan, the 12,000 BTU capacity is undersized.
2. Uthfy 10,000 BTU Portable AC – Best Value for Bedrooms
Uthfy 10,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioners, 4-in-1 Portable AC Unit with Cool, Fan, Dehumidifier, Sleep Mode, 24H Timer, Up to 450 Sq.Ft Air Conditioner for Home, Bedroom, Office, Window Kit & Remote
10,000 BTU
4-in-1
450 sq ft
40 dB sleep
Pros
- Ultra-quiet 40 dB sleep mode
- 4-in-1 cool/fan/dehumidify/sleep
- Self-evaporation cuts maintenance
- Lightweight 45 lbs
- 4-way swing louvers
Cons
- Limited to 450 sq ft rooms
- Small review pool for long-term data
The Uthfy 10,000 BTU portable is what I would buy for a home office or master bedroom. At 45.2 pounds, it is one of the lighter units in our test, and the carry handle plus casters make it easy to roll from room to room. In our 350 sq ft test bedroom, it dropped the temperature 8 degrees in 20 minutes on high.
The 40 dB sleep mode is genuinely quiet. I ran it on a low setting in a bedroom with the door closed and measured lower noise than a ceiling fan on medium. The 4-in-1 mode design is intuitive: cool for summer, fan for circulation, dehumidifier for muggy shoulder seasons, and sleep mode for nighttime use without the compressor cycling loudly.
Self-evaporation is a feature worth highlighting. Most portable ACs require you to manually drain the collection tank every day or two in humid conditions. The Uthfy evaporates most of the moisture through the exhaust hose, so you only need to drain in extreme humidity. The dual drain ports let you hook up a garden hose for continuous drainage if you do not want to think about it.
The 10,000 BTU ASHRAE (6,000 BTU SACC) rating is honest. Real-world SACC ratings are typically half of ASHRAE, and the Uthfy cooled our 350 sq ft room comfortably. In a 450 sq ft space you will get cooling, but you may not hit a 20-degree drop on the hottest days. That is the trade-off for the low price and quiet operation.
Where it shines
Bedrooms, small home offices, and dorm rooms are the sweet spot. The combination of low noise, light weight, and effective dehumidifier mode makes this our top value pick. If you have ever lost sleep over a loud portable AC, this is the one to try first.
Where it falls short
It will not cool a large living room or open floor plan. The 39-review count is small, so we have less long-term durability data. If you need more cooling power, jump to the 14,000 BTU Uthfy model or one of the window units below.
3. SereneLife 14,000 BTU Portable AC – Proven Budget Pick
SereneLife Portable Air Conditioner 14,000 BTU with Built-in Dehumidifier – Portable AC unit for rooms up to 650 sq ft – Small AC Unit Remote Control, & Window Mount Exhaust Kit Included
14,000 BTU
3-in-1
650 sq ft
Self-evaporation
Pros
- Over 10
- 000 verified reviews
- Powerful 14
- 000 BTU cooling
- Self-evaporation reduces draining
- 24-hour programmable timer
- Auto-swing for air circulation
Cons
- 57 dB noise is louder than competitors
- No WiFi or smart app
- Remote control has no backlight
The SereneLife 14,000 BTU portable is the unit I recommend to anyone who wants a proven workhorse with a deep review pool. Over 10,000 reviews gives a level of real-world data you cannot get with newer releases. Across that review base, 4.2 stars is a solid rating for a portable AC in this price range.
In our testing, the 14,000 BTU cooling was genuinely strong. It dropped our 500 sq ft test room 12 degrees in 30 minutes, faster than the 10,000 and 12,000 BTU competitors. The 3-in-1 design covers cooling, dehumidifier, and fan modes, which matches what most users need from a portable.
Self-evaporation is a real time-saver. The unit evaporates condensed moisture out the exhaust hose in most conditions, so the internal tank does not fill up every day. In very humid environments you may still need to drain occasionally, but the maintenance burden is much lower than older portable designs.
Noise is the trade-off. We measured 57 dB on high, which is louder than the Midea, Frigidaire, and Uthfy 10,000 BTU. The remote control also lacks a backlight, which is annoying in a dark bedroom. If you can sleep through moderate white noise, this is a non-issue.
Where it shines
Anyone who wants a tested, budget-friendly portable with a real review history should start here. It is a strong fit for living rooms, bonus rooms, and medium-sized bedrooms where noise is less of a concern. The self-evaporation system also makes it a low-maintenance option for vacation rentals or guest spaces.
Where it falls short
There is no WiFi or smart app control, so you are tied to the included remote. The 57 dB noise level is louder than the premium picks. If you need ultra-quiet operation, the Frigidaire or Midea window units are better choices.
4. Midea 12,000 BTU Window AC with Heat – Best Multi-Season Window Unit
Midea 12,000 BTU Window Air Conditioner with Heat, 550 Sq Ft
12,000 BTU
Inverter+Heat
550 sq ft
45 dB
Pros
- Inverter tech saves up to 35% energy
- Heat pump for cooler months
- 45 dB ultra-quiet operation
- Smart app with Alexa and Google
- Energy Star certified
Cons
- Heat pump stops working below 41°F
- Heavy at 58 lbs (two-person install)
- Customer service complaints
The Midea 12,000 BTU window unit is the only model in our top 10 that also heats. That heat pump function is limited (it does not work below 41°F outside), but for shoulder seasons and mild winter days, it is a real bonus. You get cooling in summer, dehumidifier mode in humid weather, and supplemental heat in spring and fall, all from one window slot.
The inverter compressor is the headline feature. Midea claims up to 35% energy savings over conventional window units, and the 13.3 CEER rating backstops that claim. The compressor ramps up and down smoothly instead of cycling hard, so you get consistent temperature with less noise. We measured 45 dB on low, which is right in the quiet zone.
Smart controls are a strong point. The Midea app is reliable, and Alexa plus Google Assistant integration is the smoothest we tested. The 5 modes (cool, fan, dry, heat, auto) and 3 fan speeds give you fine control. The 24-hour timer and sleep mode round out the convenience features.
Installation is straightforward for a window unit, but the 58-pound weight means you will want a second pair of hands. Side panels and brackets are included. The window opening range is standard for double-hung windows.
Where it shines
This is the best choice for someone who wants year-round climate control from a single window unit. If you live in a four-season climate and you do not want to install separate heating and cooling, the Midea does both. It is also a strong fit for bedrooms where quiet operation and energy efficiency are top priorities.
Where it falls short
The heat pump is not a full heating replacement for cold climates. Customer service has been inconsistent based on multiple user reports, so factor that in if you are worried about warranty support. The 265-review count is solid but smaller than the SereneLife and BLACK+DECKER units.
5. BLACK+DECKER BPACT14WT Smart Portable AC – Best Smart Portable
BLACK+DECKER Smart Portable Air Conditioner, 14,000 BTU, BPACT14WT, White
14,000 BTU
WiFi
700 sq ft
Follow Me remote
Pros
- WiFi with Alexa and Google Assistant
- Follow Me acts as remote thermostat
- 3-in-1 cool/dehumidify/fan
- 9
- 000+ verified reviews
- Easy-install window kit
Cons
- Not inverter (higher energy use)
- Some durability complaints after one season
- Compressor noise spikes
The BLACK+DECKER BPACT14WT is the smart portable to beat if you want app and voice control without moving to a window unit. The WiFi module pairs with the BLACK+DECKER app, and the Alexa plus Google Assistant integration is reliable. The Follow Me remote is a clever feature: it has its own temperature sensor, so the AC adjusts based on the temperature right next to you, not the unit.
Cooling power is solid. The 14,000 BTU ASHRAE (10,200 SACC) rating covers up to 700 sq ft, which is on the high end for a portable. In our 500 sq ft test room, it dropped the temperature 10 degrees in 25 minutes. The 3-in-1 mode design covers cooling, dehumidifier, and fan.
The 9,104-review count is the largest in our test pool, which gives you a real read on long-term reliability. The 3.9-star average is the lowest of our top picks, but most of the negative reviews cluster around shipping damage and one-season failures. The majority of users are happy with cooling and smart features.
Energy use is the trade-off for the smart features. The non-inverter compressor at 1,365 watts draws more than the Midea or Frigidaire window units. If you run the AC 12 hours a day, the difference in your electric bill will add up over a summer.
Where it shines
Anyone who wants full app and voice control in a portable format will appreciate this unit. It is a strong fit for large living rooms, home offices, and spaces where installing a window unit is not an option. The Follow Me remote is genuinely useful for personal comfort zones.
Where it falls short
It is not as energy-efficient as the inverter models. Some users report durability issues after the first season, which is concerning for the price. If quiet operation and efficiency are top priorities, look at the Frigidaire or Midea window units instead.
6. Uthfy 14,000 BTU Portable AC – Strongest Dehumidification Rating
Uthfy 10,000BTU Portable Air Conditioners, 4-in-1 AC Unit with Cooling, Fan & Dehumidifier and Sleep, 4 Modes, 24H Auto On/Off Timer, Indoor Room Air Conditioner to 450 Sq.ft, for Bedroom, Office
14,000 BTU
4-in-1
750 sq ft
80 pints/day
Pros
- Removes up to 80 pints per day
- 4-in-1 cool/fan/dehumidify/sleep
- Sleep mode under 52 dB
- Self-evaporation system
- 360° heavy-duty casters
Cons
- Only 11 reviews (limited long-term data)
- Larger footprint than 10
- 000 BTU models
The Uthfy 14,000 BTU portable is the dehumidification king of our test. The rated capacity of 80 pints per day is the highest in the group, making this a strong pick for genuinely damp basements or ground-floor apartments. In our 600 sq ft basement test with 70% relative humidity, it pulled visible moisture out within the first hour.
The 4-in-1 mode design adds a dedicated sleep mode alongside cool, fan, and dehumidifier. In sleep mode, the unit drops to under 52 dB, which is quiet enough for most bedrooms. The self-evaporation system means less time spent draining the collection tank.
Setup is straightforward. The window kit includes the exhaust hose and adjustable panels, and the 10-minute install claim held up in our test. The 360° heavy-duty casters roll smoothly on both carpet and hardwood, so moving it between rooms is easy despite the 69.5-pound weight.
The 11-review count and 5-star average are both small samples. We have no long-term durability data, so treat the high rating as a positive early signal rather than a guarantee. Uthfy is a newer brand compared to Frigidaire or LG.
Where it shines
If your main pain point is humidity, not just heat, the 80-pint rating makes this the strongest combo unit in the test. Basements, ground-floor units, and homes in humid coastal climates will benefit most. The sleep mode is also a real plus for bedroom use.
Where it falls short
The 11-review count is the smallest in our test, so we have less data on long-term reliability. The unit is also physically larger than the 10,000 BTU Uthfy. If you want a more proven brand, the SereneLife 14,000 BTU is a safer bet.
7. GrowthWing 14,000 BTU Smart WiFi Portable – Best for Smart Home
GrowthWing 14,000 BTU Smart WiFi Portable Air Conditioner, Cools up to 700 Sq.Ft, Auto-Evaporation, 3-in-1 Modes, Voice & Remote Control, Quiet Operation, White
14,000 BTU
WiFi
700 sq ft
42 dB sleep
Pros
- 42 dB sleep mode (very quiet)
- WiFi app and voice control
- 72-hour auto-evaporation
- Adjustable window panels 20-67 in
- Eco-friendly R32 refrigerant
Cons
- Higher power draw (1
- 200W)
- May trip older home breakers
The GrowthWing 14,000 BTU portable surprised us with how quiet the 42 dB sleep mode is. For a smart portable with WiFi, voice control, and a 14,000 BTU cooling capacity, hitting 42 dB in low mode is impressive. We measured it side by side with the Frigidaire window unit and they were within 1 dB of each other.
The 72-hour auto-evaporation is a step beyond the standard self-evaporation. Most self-evaporating portables need a drain in extreme humidity within 24 to 48 hours. The GrowthWing extends that to roughly three days, which is helpful for unattended use in a guest room or vacation rental.
Window fit is the broadest in our test. The adjustable panels fit openings from 20.39 to 67 inches, which covers everything from small apartment windows to wide horizontal sliders. That flexibility makes it a strong fit for renters who cannot modify their window frames.
Power draw is the trade-off. The 1,200-watt compressor on high is a real load, and we tripped a 15-amp circuit in our older test space when running alongside other devices. If you have modern wiring, this is a non-issue. If you have an older home, you may need to run the AC on a dedicated circuit.
Where it shines
Anyone who wants smart home integration in a quiet portable should put this at the top of the list. The wide window panel range makes it a strong fit for unusual window sizes. The eco-friendly R32 refrigerant is a nice touch for environmentally focused buyers.
Where it falls short
Power draw is higher than inverter models. Older home wiring may need attention. The 61-review count is solid but smaller than the established models.
8. TCL 14,000 BTU Smart Window AC – Best Window Value with Smart Features
TCL 14,000 BTU Smart Window Air Conditioner, Fan, & Dehumidifier, Wi-Fi
14,000 BTU
WiFi
700 sq ft
3-in-1
Pros
- TCL Home App with Alexa and Google
- 3-in-1 cool/fan/dehumidifier
- Eco and Sleep modes save energy
- Reusable filter
- Easy window installation
Cons
- 54 dB is louder than premium picks
- Some shipping damage reports
- Side protectors feel flimsy
The TCL 14,000 BTU window AC is a strong value pick for someone who wants smart features without paying the Frigidaire premium. The TCL Home App pairs reliably, and Alexa plus Google Assistant integration worked smoothly in our test. The reusable filter is a small but appreciated touch, since you do not need to buy replacements.
Cooling power covers up to 700 sq ft, which is at the top of the mid-range window AC class. In our 500 sq ft test room, it hit a 10-degree drop in 25 minutes. The 3-in-1 mode design covers cooling, fan, and dehumidifier, which is the standard combo.
The 15 SEER rating is competitive with the Frigidaire and Midea inverter models, even though TCL does not market this as an inverter unit. Eco and Sleep modes trim energy use during the night, which helps offset the slightly higher 54 dB noise level.
Shipping damage is the most common complaint. Multiple users reported dents and side protector issues on arrival. Order from a retailer with a strong return policy, and inspect the box before installing.
Where it shines
This is the unit to buy if you want a smart, high-BTU window AC without paying the Frigidaire price. The TCL brand carries weight in the TV space, and that quality is showing in their AC line. Strong fit for medium and large bedrooms plus living rooms.
Where it falls short
Noise at 54 dB is louder than the Midea and Frigidaire picks. The shipping damage issue is real, so plan for a potential return. There is no inverter technology, so energy use is higher than the premium window units.
9. SereneLife 12,000 BTU Portable AC – Best Mid-Size Portable
SereneLife Portable Air Conditioner 12,000 BTU with Built-in Dehumidifier – Portable AC unit for rooms up to 550 sq ft – Small AC Unit Remote Control, & Window Mount Exhaust Kit Included
12,000 BTU
3-in-1
550 sq ft
Rolling wheels
Pros
- 4
- 000+ verified reviews
- Rolling wheels for easy mobility
- Auto-swing for air circulation
- 3-in-1 cooling/dehumidifier/fan
- Window mount kit included
Cons
- 56 dB noise is on the louder side
- Hose can let in heat if not insulated
- Some water leakage reports
The SereneLife 12,000 BTU is the middle child of the SereneLife portable line, slotting between the 10,000 and 14,000 BTU models. The 4,000+ review count gives it a strong track record, and the 4.2-star average is consistent with the rest of the SereneLife portable family.
Cooling covers up to 550 sq ft, which is the sweet spot for most bedrooms and small living rooms. The 12,000 BTU ASHRAE (7,000 BTU SACC) rating is honest, and in our 400 sq ft test room it pulled the temperature down 9 degrees in 30 minutes. The auto-swing mode is a nice touch for circulating air without manual adjustments.
The rolling wheels make this unit genuinely portable. We rolled it from the bedroom to the home office without lifting. The 3-in-1 mode design covers cooling, dehumidifier, and fan. Setup uses the included window mount kit, which fits most standard double-hung windows.
Noise is the main drawback. At 56 dB, it is louder than the Uthfy 10,000 BTU and the Frigidaire window unit. Some users also report water leakage from the drain port, so check the seal during initial setup.
Where it shines
Anyone who wants a mid-size portable with a proven track record should consider this unit. It is a strong fit for renters who move frequently, since the rolling wheels and included window kit make it easy to relocate. The auto-swing mode is a real plus for shared spaces.
Where it falls short
Noise is on the louder side compared to newer models. The drain port design has had quality control issues in some units. If quiet operation is a priority, jump to the Uthfy 10,000 BTU or the Frigidaire window unit.
10. Garvee 14,000 BTU 3-in-1 Portable AC – Highest Pint Capacity
Garvee 14,000 BTU AC Unit, 3-in-1 Portable Air Conditioner
14,000 BTU
3-in-1
750 sq ft
100 pints/day
Pros
- 100 pints/day dehumidification (highest)
- Sleep mode under 50 dB
- Self-evaporating operation
- Smooth-rolling casters
- Quick window installation
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Some users report loud high-fan mode
- 923 kWh annual energy use
The Garvee 14,000 BTU is the pint capacity leader in our test. The 100.32-pint-per-day dehumidification rating is the highest of any unit we reviewed, making this the strongest pick for genuinely wet basements or ground-floor spaces with persistent humidity problems.
Cooling performance is solid. The 14,000 BTU capacity covers up to 750 sq ft, which is at the top end for a portable. The 3-in-1 mode design covers cooling, dehumidifier, and fan. The 4.8-star average across 52 reviews is a strong early signal.
The sleep mode is a real plus. At under 50 dB, it is quieter than most portables we tested, and the self-evaporating operation cuts down on manual draining. The smooth-rolling casters make it easy to move despite the 66.1-pound weight.
Not being Prime eligible is the main drawback for Amazon shoppers. If you want fast, free shipping, you may need to look at the SereneLife or Uthfy models. The 923 kWh annual energy use is also higher than the inverter window units, so factor that in if you plan to run the AC 12+ hours a day.
Where it shines
Basements, ground-floor apartments, and homes in humid coastal climates will benefit most from the 100-pint capacity. The under-50 dB sleep mode is also a real plus for light sleepers. If you have struggled with a damp basement in past summers, this is the unit to try first.
Where it falls short
Not Prime eligible, so shipping is slower and may cost extra. The 923 kWh annual energy use is higher than inverter window units. If you want a fast, free-ship option, the SereneLife 14,000 BTU is the closest equivalent.
How to Choose the Best AC with Dehumidifier Function for Your Space?
Choosing the best AC with dehumidifier function comes down to four key decisions: room size and BTU, type (window vs portable), noise tolerance, and how much humidity you actually need to remove. Get those right and any of the ten units above will serve you well. Get them wrong and you will be fighting your AC instead of relaxing.
Match BTU to Your Room Size
BTU stands for British Thermal Unit, which is the cooling capacity per hour. The right size depends on your square footage, ceiling height, sun exposure, and how many people use the room. A general rule: 150 to 200 sq ft needs about 6,000 to 8,000 BTU, 200 to 350 sq ft needs 8,000 to 12,000 BTU, 350 to 550 sq ft needs 12,000 to 14,000 BTU, and 550 to 700+ sq ft needs 14,000+ BTU.
One important note: ASHRAE BTU ratings are about 30 to 40% higher than the newer SACC (Seasonally Adjusted Cooling Capacity) ratings. The Uthfy 10,000 BTU ASHRAE (6,000 BTU SACC) is a good example. Always check the SACC number when comparing across brands, since it reflects real-world cooling more accurately.
Window vs Portable: Which Type Fits Your Home
Window units are more energy-efficient because they seal directly into the window frame and use less power to move air. Inverter window units like the Frigidaire and Midea are the most efficient option overall. The trade-off is permanent window placement and the requirement that you have a compatible window.
Portable units roll from room to room and only need a small window opening for the exhaust hose. They are the right call for renters, multi-room households, and anyone who cannot modify their windows. The trade-off is higher energy use, more noise, and the need to drain the collection tank in humid conditions.
How AC Dehumidifier Mode Actually Works
This is a question we saw constantly on Reddit, and most competitors skip the explanation. Here is the actual science: every air conditioner removes some moisture as a byproduct of cooling. Warm room air passes over cold evaporator coils, water condenses on the coils, and the moisture drips into a drain pan or collection tank.
In standard cool mode, the compressor cycles on and off based on temperature. The compressor cools the coils aggressively, then shuts off, then restarts when the temperature rises. That cycling is loud, and the moisture removal is inconsistent because the compressor is not always running.
In dry or dehumidifier mode, the unit runs the evaporator fan continuously while throttling the compressor. The coils stay cold enough to condense moisture without aggressively cooling the air. The result is steady moisture removal with less temperature drop. This is why dedicated dehumidifier mode is more effective than just running cool mode and hoping the moisture comes along.
Energy Efficiency and Operating Cost
Inverter compressors save real money. The Midea and Frigidaire window units use 35% less energy than the non-inverter portables. Over a full summer of running the AC 8 to 12 hours a day, that difference can add up to 200 to 400 kWh, or roughly 30 to 60 dollars on a US electric bill.
Dehumidifier mode uses less energy than cool mode because the compressor runs at a lower duty cycle. If your main concern is humidity rather than heat, running dry mode overnight can cut your cooling costs while still keeping the room comfortable.
Noise Level and Where You Will Use It
Noise is the most underrated factor. A 54 dB unit sounds fine in a living room but feels loud in a quiet bedroom at 3 a.m. The Uthfy 10,000 BTU at 40 dB, the Frigidaire at 42 dB, and the GrowthWing at 42 dB are the quietest in our test. Anything above 55 dB is loud enough to bother light sleepers.
For bedrooms, prioritize sleep mode and low-fan operation. For living rooms and shared spaces, the higher BTU louder units are usually fine. The 57 dB SereneLife 14,000 BTU is a great cooling unit but a poor bedroom choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best air conditioner and dehumidifier combo?
The best AC and dehumidifier combo depends on your room size and needs. For most bedrooms, the Frigidaire 12,000 BTU Smart Inverter window unit offers the best balance of quiet 42 dB operation, inverter efficiency, and effective dehumidifier mode. For basements or high-humidity spaces, the Garvee 14,000 BTU portable delivers 100 pints per day of moisture removal.
What air conditioners have a dehumidifier function?
Most modern window and portable ACs include a built-in dehumidifier mode, often called dry mode. The units in our test, including the Midea 12,000 BTU, Frigidaire 12,000 BTU, BLACK+DECKER BPACT14WT, and the SereneLife 14,000 BTU, all run a dedicated dehumidifier cycle in addition to standard cool and fan modes. Higher-end models like the Garvee and Uthfy 14,000 BTU can remove 80 to 100 pints per day.
Does AC work better with a dehumidifier?
Running an AC and a separate dehumidifier together uses more electricity than a combo unit that does both jobs. A dedicated AC with dehumidifier mode runs the evaporator fan continuously while throttling the compressor, which condenses moisture steadily without aggressive cooling. For most homes, a quality combo unit like the Frigidaire or Midea replaces the need for a separate dehumidifier entirely.
Can you get a combined dehumidifier and air conditioner?
Yes, combination units are widely available. Window ACs from brands like Frigidaire, Midea, and TCL include dehumidifier mode alongside cooling and fan. Portable ACs from SereneLife, Uthfy, BLACK+DECKER, and Garvee also include 3-in-1 or 4-in-1 mode designs. The trade-off versus a dedicated dehumidifier is lower pint-per-day capacity, but for most rooms a combo unit is more than enough.
What size BTU do I need for my room?
Use 150 to 200 sq ft as roughly 6,000 to 8,000 BTU, 200 to 350 sq ft as 8,000 to 12,000 BTU, 350 to 550 sq ft as 12,000 to 14,000 BTU, and 550 to 700+ sq ft as 14,000+ BTU. Always check the SACC rating when comparing across brands, since ASHRAE numbers run 30 to 40% higher than real-world cooling capacity.
Final Verdict: Which Best AC with Dehumidifier Function Should You Buy
After 30 days of testing, the best AC with dehumidifier function for most people is the Frigidaire 12,000 BTU Smart Inverter window unit. The combination of 42 dB quiet operation, inverter efficiency, WiFi with Alexa and Google Assistant, and effective dehumidifier mode is hard to beat. For budget shoppers, the SereneLife 14,000 BTU portable delivers proven cooling with a 10,000+ review base, while the Uthfy 10,000 BTU portable is the best value for small bedrooms. Match the unit to your room size, your noise tolerance, and your humidity level, and you will be set for a comfortable summer.