Finding the best LG air conditioners can feel like an overwhelming process if you don’t know what criteria to use. You need to consider the square footage of the room you want to cool and find a unit with BTUs that are compatible with that space. Consider whether you want a mounted or portable unit, and look for an option with higher energy efficiency and a strong CFM rating for adequate airflow. If you’re going to link your air conditioner to a smart assistant, look for WiFi-enabled models. And also consider options such as a dehumidifier or supplemental heat if your space isn’t warm enough with the current heating system.
After researching through countless consumer reviews, we nominated the LG LW1816ER Air Conditioner as our Top Pick. Keep reading to learn more about the rest of our picks, and the criteria we used to create this guide and identify the best air conditioners for you.
Top 10 Best LG Air Conditioners
#1 LG LW1816ER Air Conditioner
Award: TOP PICK
WHY WE LIKE IT: The best window air conditioner for larger rooms up to 1,000 square feet thanks to 18,000 BTUs of power with a dry mode for increased comfort.
- Ideal for rooms up to 1,000 sq. ft.
- 18,000 BTUs
- 530 CFM, 11.8 EER
- Doesn’t include a heater option
If you’re trying to cool a larger room, then you know how important it is to find an air conditioner with increased power. This LG LW1816ER is up to the challenge thanks to 18,000 BTUs of power. We think it’s the best window air conditioner from our research thanks to its ability to cool rooms as large as 1,000 square feet. You’ll get a 530 CFM rating and an 11.8 energy efficiency score — both of which are incredibly efficient.
As is standard, this window air conditioner comes with an installation kit and remote control. You’ll get three cooling and three fan speeds, as well as four-way air deflection which gives you the freedom to adjust the airflow up, down, right, or left. And at 52 decibels, this noise output is on par for the medium range of window air conditioner units. However, if you’re looking for a model that includes supplemental heat, this won’t meet that need. But if you’re planning a camping trip, then you better check out the best portable AC for camping.
#2 LG LW1017ERSM Air Conditioner
Award: HONORABLE MENTION
WHY WE LIKE IT: The best air conditioner for rooms up to 450 square feet can also integrate into smart home technology thanks to WiFi support and the proprietary SmartThinQ app.
- 3 cooling & fan speeds
- 12.1 EER, 280 CFM rating
- 530 CFM, 11.8 EER
- Energy saver mode not as efficient as with other models
For people that are focused on creating a smart home, they want appliances that can integrate into smart assistants like Alexa or Google Assistant. Thankfully, the LG LW1017ERSM is designed WiFi-enabled, making it a top-rated WiFi smart air conditioner. This means that it can be controlled truly remotely — through either LG’s proprietary SmartThinQ app via your mobile device, or with a smart assistant. Specifically, you can link this unit with Alexa or Google Assistant. We think it’s the best air conditioner because, in addition to smart integration, it can work with medium-sized rooms up to 450 square feet.
Aside from that, you’ll get a solid 280 CFM and 12.1 EER rating. In terms of power, this pick offers 10,000 BTUs and also comes with a remote control if you prefer a classic operation mode. WIth the LW1017ERSM, you’ll get three cooling and three fan speeds. Of course, the installation kit also comes with it, and you’ll be able to control the airflow direction with the four-way controls. Other key, but standard features include an eco-mode, a dry setting, and an indicator for when it’s time to clean the filter. Now when deciding between a mounted window AC or a leading portable air conditioner, you’ll need to survey options from the best air conditioners for sliding windows.
#3 LG LP1419IVSM Air Conditioner
Award: BEST QUALITY
WHY WE LIKE IT: The best portable air conditioner for quick and easy installation that supports smart assistant integration for rooms up to 500 square feet and 14,000 BTUs of power.
- High evaporation rate of 160.8 pints/day
- Integrates with Alexa and Google Assistant
- 14,000 BTUs for up to 500 sq. ft.
- Lacks a heat setting
The LG LP1419IVSM is one of the best portable air conditioners that we found during our research for this guide. We liked that this is another solution that is WiFi-enabled, meaning that it can be linked with a smart home assistant like Alexa or Google Assistant for control through voice commands. Or if you prefer, you can use LG’s SmartThinQ app on your mobile device, or the included remote control. Whichever you prefer, you’ll love that installation is quick and easy thanks to the included kit.
With a 243 CFM and a 9.0 EER rating, you’ll get efficient airflow and solid energy efficiency from this portable AC unit. This unit offers 14,000 BTUs, which translates to enough power to efficiently cool a 500-square-foot room. However, if you’re looking for a portable model with a heating component, this won’t offer it. Still, you’ll get cooling, a dehumidifier, and a fan. The dehumidifier has an evaporation rate of 160.8 pints per 24 hours, the largest rate we discovered in our research. And with a maximum of 53-decibel output, this is one of the quieter models even when comparing portable and window AC units. Feel free to compare this with any of the best window air conditioners.
#4 LG LP0817WSR Air Conditioner
Award: BEST ON A BUDGET
WHY WE LIKE IT: An LG portable air conditioner that’s budget-friendly with three-in-one functionality for smaller rooms up to 200 square feet and an easy-to-use control panel.
- Streamlined control panel with LCD temperature display
- 8,000 BTUs for up to 200 sq. ft.
- 3-in-1 cooling, dehumidifier, and fan function
- Lower EER rating of 8.2
- 2 fan speeds and 2 cooling speeds
For people with smaller rooms, it can be hard to find an air conditioner that’s not overpowering your room. Picking a unit that’s too powerful can lead to increased energy consumption, possible power outages, and a room that’s uncomfortable because it’s too cold. The LP0817WSR is an LG portable air conditioner that’s easy on your wallet, easy to install, and effective. With 8,000 BTUs it’s perfect for smaller rooms up to 200 square feet.
Note that this portable AC isn’t WiFi-enabled and has a slightly lower 8.2 EER as compared to other LG air conditioners. Additionally, because of the lower BTU rating, you’ll get a 220 CFM. Still, we like that it has a straightforward control panel that’s easy to use with an LCD temperature display. This unit is also a three-in-one solution with cooling, a dehumidifier, and a fan function. The dehumidifier can remove up to 91.2 pints per 24 hours. You’ll also get two cooling and two fan speeds. And if you live in drier climates where the humidity levels are relatively low, then you may need the best evaporative air conditioner.
#5 LG LP0818WNR Air Conditioner
Award: BEST FOR SMALL AREAS
WHY WE LIKE IT: A simple portable AC unit that’s ideal for rooms up to 200 square feet with an auto-evaporation mode that’s more efficient and a solid 117.6 pints per day evaporation rate.
- 8,000 BTUs of power
- Auto-evaporation mode for continuous use
- 230 CFM rating
- Requires manual drainage of collection basket
Small rooms deserve to be efficiently cooled. And that’s why we like the LP0818WNR air conditioner. This is another portable AC unit that is ideal for smaller rooms of up to 200 square feet. You’ll get 8,000 BTUs of power and a 230 CFM rating. We like that this LG air conditioner that’s portable only weighs 58.4 pounds, making it a truly mobile solution. This is important as even though portable air conditioners are designed to be moved, they can be incredibly heavy.
While this model has an auto-evaporation mode which is designed to be more efficient, we did note that you need to manually drain this unit. And that can be a nuisance as it requires tipping the unit to drain the collection basket. You also get two cooling and two fan speeds, and a dry mode. We did like that this model has a fairly impressive evaporation rate of up to 117.6 pints per day. And you may also find a better, portable, evaporative air cooler for the summer, from our review on the best outdoor air conditioners.
#6 LG LW8017ERSM Air Conditioner
Award: BEST SMART WINDOW UNIT
WHY WE LIKE IT: A WiFi-enabled window air conditioner that can cool rooms up to 340 square feet, with an incredible 12.1 energy efficiency rating and 8,000 BTUs of power.
- WiFi-enabled for Alexa & Google Assistant
- 12.1 EER, 220 CFM
- 8,000 BTUs for up to 340 sq. ft.
- Dehumidifier has lower evaporation rate at 52.8 pints/day
- Louder 58 dB maximum output
The LW8017ERSM LG window air conditioner is a great option for rooms up to 340 square feet. We think this is one of the best smart-enabled window units from LG. You’ll like that thanks to its WiFi Connect feature, you can link it to smart assistants such as Alexa and Google Assistant. This gives you the freedom to rely on voice activation to operate your air conditioner. Or if you prefer, you can use the LG SmartThinQ app, or the included remote control.
This pick is a three-in-one solution that comes with three cooling speeds, three fan speeds, and a dehumidifier feature. Note though, that the dehumidifier has a lower evaporation rate of just 52.8 pints per day. Likewise, with a maximum output of 58 decibels, this is one of the noisier choices if you’re running the unit at full speed. Still, with a 12.1 EER, this is also one of the more efficient air conditioners in our guide. For another energy-efficient unit that features a low sound output and white noise functionality, take a look at the best tower air conditioner.
#7 LG LW8016HR Air Conditioner
Award: BEST FOR ALL CLIMATES
WHY WE LIKE IT: A four-in-one air conditioner unit with a heating and cooling function, one of the lowest decibel outputs, a solid 11.2 EER rating, and 7,500 BTUs to cool rooms up to 350 square feet.
- Ideal for rooms up to 350 sq. ft.
- Quiet operation 49 dB noise output
- 205 CFM, 11.2 EER
- Low 7500 BTUs
Some people are looking for air conditioners with supplemental heat. While that’s not the most efficient method for heating a room, it can be effective. The LG LW8016HR is a four-in-one wall-mounted air conditioning unit that provides cool air, heat, a dehumidifier, and fan functionality. At 7,500 BTUs, it’s one of the lowest power outputs we found in our research. Still, you can heat or cool rooms up to 350 square feet. Note though that the heating BTUs is 3,850.
Because of the lower BTU rating, it’s not surprising that this unit has a 205 CFM. But it does offer an 11.2 EER which is a good energy efficiency rating. We liked that depending on your setting, the noise output is as low as 49 decibels, which is one of the lowest ratings we’ve seen across window, wall, or portable air conditioner units. You’ll get a 50.4 pints per day evaporation rate, which is on the lower end as well. You can also toggle between multiple heating and cooling speeds as well as manage the four-way air direction. For options regarding a self-evaporative technology to remove condensation and purify the air, have a look at the best portable air conditioner for RVs.
#8 LG LW2217IVSM Air Conditioner
Award: BEST ENERGY EFFICIENCY RATING
WHY WE LIKE IT: A WiFi-enabled air conditioner for rooms up to 1,300 square feet with a dual inverter design that increases energy efficiency — as proven by the high 14.5 EER.
- Comes with SmartThinQ App
- 22,000 BTUs of power, up to 1,300 sq. ft.
- 14.5 EER, 550 CFM
- High noise output up to 67dB
If you’re looking to increase energy efficiency, a dual inverter air conditioner is the way to go. This LW2217IVSM LG air conditioner with an inverter actually has a dual inverter compressor, which makes it a top inverter AC. This means increased energy efficiency that can quickly cool rooms without spiking energy bills. You’ll get 22,000 BTUs of power that’s rated for rooms as large as 1,300 square feet. That also means you have a high 550 CFM for efficient air circulation. To really see the difference, check out our content on inverters vs non-inverters A/Cs.
But what’s most impressive is that this LG dual inverter unit has a 14.5 EER, meaning it’s incredibly energy efficient. Note that this is one of the noisier options — even though a dual inverter is intended to reduce noise levels. Depending on your setting, you’ll get anywhere from 55 to 67 decibels of operation noise. Still, this is another great WiFi-enabled unit that can be connected with Alexa and Google Assistant. And thanks to the dry setting, you can remove as much as 163.2 pints of moisture from the air per day. Even better is the self evaporative feature that comes with the best windowless air conditioner.
#9 LG LT1037HNR Air Conditioner
Award: BEST FOR ALTERNATIVE INSTALLATIONS
WHY WE LIKE IT: A wall-mounted air conditioner that also offers supplemental heat and 10,000 to 11,200 BTUs to efficiently heat or cool rooms up to 450 square feet.
- Removes up to 76.8 pints/day
- 10,000 BTUs for up to 450 sq. ft.
- Includes supplemental heat
- Higher 56 dB noise output
Most of us think of window air conditioners when we picture AC units, and how to choose the right window A/C unit. But some people don’t want to limit available windows by mounting a unit in them. In that scenario, a wall-mounted unit can be a great alternative. If this sounds like an issue you’re focusing on, then the LG LT1037HNR unit is a great option. It’s a wall-mounted unit that also includes supplemental heat, making it great for people who need to effectively heat and cool a space up to 450 square feet. To see this brand up against a competitor, check out our comparison of LG vs Mitsubishi A/C.
You’ll get 10,000 BTUs of cooling power and 11,200 BTUs of heating power. This unit has a great 285 CFM rating and a medium efficiency at 9.7 EER. This four-in-one solution also includes a dehumidifier and fan. The dry setting can remove as much as 76.8 pints of moisture per day. However, this is also a noisier unit emitting as much as 56 decibels when working at maximum capacity. You’ll get two cooling speeds, two fan speeds, an energy-saving mode, and four-way air direction controls. And for more efficient airflow, the best dual hose portable air conditioner may be just what you need.
#10 LG LP1414WSRSM Air Conditioner
Award: BEST FOR MEDIUM-SIZED AREAS
WHY WE LIKE IT: A WiFi-enabled portable air conditioner with 14,000 BTUs to cool rooms up to 500 square feet with a dehumidifier that can remove up to 158.4 pints per day.
- 14,000 BTUs
- WiFi for smart assistant-integration
- Dehumidifier with 158.4 pints/day evaporation rating
- Only available as a certified refurbished model
Portable air conditioners can be a great solution for people who need to cool a room, but aren’t prepared or able to install something more permanent like a traditional window unit or even a mini-split system. The LG LP1414WSRSM is a WiFi-enabled portable air conditioner that can be linked to Alexa and Google Assistant or be operated through the SmartThinQ app. This pick is 14,000 BTUs and is rated for rooms up to 500 square feet.
While this model is only available as a certified refurbished unit, we think it has a lot to love. You’ll get a 278 CFM which is fairly strong for air circulation. This three-in-one solution includes cooling, dehumidifying, and fan functions. The dehumidifier has an evaporation rate of 158.4 pints per day, which is on the higher end. This model comes with two cooling and two fan speeds along with a sleep mode. But you may also be interested in a combo unit in the class of the best portable air conditioner and heater.
How We Decided
Air conditioners are an essential item for anyone who lives in areas of the world where hot weather is a part of life. To create our guide, we looked at the following key features — the BTU rating, style, room size, CFM and EER ratings, programmability, and additional features. You’ll find that we focused on two main types of air conditioners, those that must be mounted (either wall or window mounts) and portable air conditioners.
The BTU rating and room size are two factors that go hand in hand. Picking the right BTU rating requires knowing the square footage of whatever space you want to cool. In our guide, the BTUs ranged from as low as 7,300 to as much as 22,000. And understandably, the compatible square footage ranged from as small as 200 square feet to as much as 1,300 square feet.
But to find an efficient model, you also need to pay attention to the cubic feet per meter (CFM) and energy efficiency rating (EER). The CFM dictates how effectively a unit can move air throughout the space while the EER determines how efficiently an air conditioner can operate and whether it can pose a risk of higher energy bills.
Next, we considered whether an air conditioner was programmable. While basic functions like a 24-hour timer, sleep, and eco mode are fairly standard, we also looked for models that are WiFi-enabled. This means that they can be linked with smart assistants such as Alexa or Google Assistant. And it increases the intuitive nature of the product, allowing you to control it remotely, even if you’re not home.
Finally, we considered additional features. Primarily, this came down to a dehumidifier setting and supplemental heat. A dehumidifier can help to reduce the temperature in a room by removing the humidity. And we focused on the evaporation rate which is usually listed in pints per hour or pints per 24 hours. And a supplemental heat function can be useful for people in spaces that lack heat, or where the built-in heater isn’t as effective.
Best LG Air Conditioners Buyer’s Guide
The Most Important Factors to Consider
- BTU Rating
Start by thinking about the BTUs or “British Thermal Units”. The BTU rating confirms how much square footage an air conditioner can effectively heat or cool. If you have a larger room, you’ll need a unit with a higher BTU rating. BTUs can range from as low as 8,000 to as much as 36,000 BTUs. - Style
There are a variety of air conditioner options to meet your needs. Aside from central air which requires ductwork to be installed, you can also find portable models, mounted units, and even mini-split systems. Mounted units must be installed in a window or through the wall while portable air conditioners require a simple window hose installation. Think about whether or not you’re able to install something permanent, or if you want the freedom to move your unit from room to room. - Room Size
Your air conditioner’s BTU rating should be compatible with the square footage of the space that you want to cool. Don’t just get a unit with the largest BTU rating as you could end up paying for more power than you can use. - CFM and EER Ratings
Also known as the CFM, the cubic feet per meter rating is going to be important for windows and portable units. CFM denotes an air conditioner’s efficiency at circulating air through a room. A higher CFM number usually means that the unit offers better airflow. But remember that CFM must be considered after you’ve selected a unit with the right BTU level for the space you’re heating or cooling. But if you’re concerned with energy efficiency, pay attention to the EER rating. This figure represents how efficient an appliance is. The higher the EER rating, the more efficient an appliance is. - Programmability
In addition to having a control panel or a remote, some people may be concerned about smart integration or truly remote operation from their smartphone. While this will usually come with a price increase, you can find models that are WiFi-compatible or are already smart assistant-enabled to work with popular options like Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple Home. - Additional Features
If all you care about is basic cooling, then additional features may not matter. But nice add-ons like a dehumidifier can remove humidity from a room and naturally reduce the temperature without requiring you to crank the AC and use more energy. Other options like self-evaporation can be nice for portable units, while a heating function is nice if you need to supplement your home’s built-in heating system.
