By the end of June, a sweltering heatwave across Europe claimed over 1,300 lives. Amid such oppressive conditions, staying in an air-conditioned environment is critically important, according to health authorities.
The Midea U-Shaped Air Conditioner tops the list with its innovative design that allows windows to slide down for better sealing and quieter operation. It’s also one of the quietest units we’ve tested, with a 42 decibel rating on high. Additionally, it supports Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa.
The Zafro Lullaby Duo Portable AC is perfect for those who need mobility. This freestanding unit uses two hoses to avoid the negative-pressure effect that can be found in cheaper models. Although it’s noisier than the Midea at 60 decibels on high, its ability to move between rooms makes it a versatile choice.
The Windmill With WhisperTech offers a sleek and quiet option with preassembled parts for quick installation. Its WhisperTech version reduces noise from barely audible to 50 decibels on high. However, this model is still louder than the Midea, despite its name.
For those who prefer not to stay put, the Sony Reon Pocket Pro Plus offers wearable cooling. This device attaches to a rubber band around the neck and uses a small fan to cool the back of the head. It’s designed to last up to 15 hours on a charge, though real-world performance may vary.







