AC Product Database

LG Dual Inverter LW1522FVSM

I tell clients to pick the LG Dual Inverter smart air conditioner for open-concept living areas or master bedrooms. 

My typical checklist for a smart window AC prioritizes smart connectivity, especially for larger homes. With built-in WiFi, this unit offers full remote control from your via LG's ThinQ app, the handy place for controlling all your LG appliances.  

I was struck by how the app's energy monitoring and reports helped track my costs and run times.

Users can identify patterns and optimize settings for optimal efficiency. Still, while using the app, I tested the unit's air quality sensor, which automatically tweaked fan speeds to improve air circulation whenever it detected fumes or odors.

Also, thanks to its smart diagnostic capabilities, the ThinQ app sends alert notifications if the air filter needs cleaning or other maintenance issues pop up.

You can tweak temperatures, fan speeds, modes, and settings under a single dashboard. I also enjoyed the unit's hands-free convenience with its voice control function via Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.

Other standout features I tested include multiple fan speeds, thanks to LG's DUAL inverter technology, and a reliable dry mode for dehumidification. 

There's also a remote-controlled 24-hour programmable timer for keeping your energy bill in check and a 4-way air deflection mechanism that distributes cool air in multiple directions.

With the auto restart function, your smart air conditioner memorizes the setup before the operation shuts down and automatically resumes with the memorized setup when the power is back.

Having fitted several of these 14K BTU smart air conditioners, the huge difference is the model has an impressive cooling capacity of up to 700 square feet..

 Hence, this is AC is generally intended for larger rooms. 

While models like the GE AHTR10AC are cheaper, this unit has a large cooling capacity, ultra-quiet operation, smart controls, and outstanding energy efficiency, which justify the $500+ price point.

The LG Dual Inverter model would appeal to discerning homeowners seeking top-tier performance in a smart window AC.

Related article: Options for 14000 BTU air conditioners

Dreo DR-HAC002

The Dreo DR-HAC002 is one of the quietest Energy Star-certified smart air conditioners I've installed. I'm wowed by how seamlessly this unit integrates with smart home devices. 

First, you'll enjoy the 8K BTU unit's intelligent, energy-efficient design and smart controls.

Installing the Dreo Home App allows you to leverage a more intelligent and convenient experience instead of manually setting target temperature or fan speeds. 

The app was also swift at setting smart schedules for automatic cooling even while I was away. I didn't face issues while testing its voice controls with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.

I tested the Drep Home App's responsive interface for sorting custom heating and cooling schedules to match my daily routine and lifestyle. Using its energy monitoring function, I can (in real-time) break down runtimes and electrical usage costs to the penny.

Smart diagnostics is another huge plus in my books, as the Dreo Home App pings you when it's time for a filter change based on actual usage, not some generic time estimate. 

I'm thrilled it could detect potential issues and maintenance needs through compressor data, giving owners peace of mind.

The Dreo DR-HAC002 has noise levels as low as 42 dB, making it quieter than the LG Dual Inverter unit. If you want to cool a space larger than 350 square feet, pick models like the GE AHTR10AC unit, which feature higher cooling power.

For a budget-conscious homeowner, this unit is worth it, as it has all the standard smart functions you'd find on the LG Dual Inverter window air conditioner.

Related article: 8000 BTU air conditioners compared

GE Profile AHTR10AC

If better energy efficiency is all you need, the GE AHTR10AC 10K BTU, with its intelligent features, would suffice.

Like other GE units, remote access and custom climate control are as simple as integrating your mobile device with the SmartHQ app via built-in WiFi connectivity. 

I've tested similar setups, and being able to fire up the AC from your phone while you're still at the office seals the deal. Plus, with voice control via Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant, I could control this unit without moving a muscle. 

It was nice to monitor and adjust aspects like cooling modes, temperature settings, or fan speeds from wherever I happened to be. 

Built-in intelligent maintenance functions tied to the app keep precise tabs on airflow and usage patterns based on my home's conditions. 

All GE smart air conditioner models come with eco settings, filter alerts, and compressor diagnostics as standard features.

Its inverter technology also caught my eye as it operates at varying speeds, unlike traditional compressors that cycle intermittently.

The smart air conditioner synced with my cooling needs, running more efficiently and curbing those on-and-off cycles. The 10000 BTU cooling capacity and its four cooling modes and three fan speeds are flexible enough to serve medium-sized rooms of up to 450 square feet. 

On the user experience front, little touches like the 24-hour timer and power interruption restart are an added convenience.

Being 41% more efficient than standard models, you should see noticeable savings compared to using a unit like the Dreo DR-HAC002. 

And if you're looking for a unit with inverter technology, this would be a cheaper alternative to the LG Dual Inverter model.

Windmill WhisperTech 10000

I fancy up-to-date smart air conditioners, and the Windmill WhisperTech 10K BTU unit turns heads with its blend of style and cutting-edge features, even making Time Magazine's list of best inventions in 2023. 

Like other intelligent window ACs, this Windmill AC model isn't just limited to cooling—it integrates seamlessly into your home via built-in WiFi.

I've seen my fair share of AC apps, and this one stands out for its top-rated Windmill app, which has a pretty user-friendly interface.

I can fire up the AC before getting home on a scorching day or shut it off remotely anytime I dashed out and forgot. I also experimented with scheduling features that let you set custom cooling patterns to match your lifestyle.

This smart air conditioner gets even more intelligent by featuring voice control, which is compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Home. 

The WhisperTech inverter technology is another selling point, as it adjusts the compressor speed to maintain a desired temperature. 

I experienced consistent comfort and quieter operations, unlike traditional portable ACs, whose on-and-off cycles can be frustrating. At just 42 dB, this unit lives up to its "WhisperTech" moniker since it's about as loud as a library.

Windmill put thought into the aesthetics, with the unit featuring curved edges and clean lines that are a far cry from the eyesores often associated with window ACs. For light-sensitive sleepers, the unit's auto-dimming LED display is a plus. 

I'm impressed by the dual air intake system, which speeds up cooling and incorporates dual filtration. Blending an activated carbon filter with a mesh filter means you're not just cooling the air but also cleaning it.

The airflow design mimics central air, directing cool air at a 45-degree angle upward instead of blasting it directly at you, which I find makes a massive difference in comfort. 

At around $450, you'll also find low-priced options like the GE ‎PHC06LY, but they lack Windmill's capabilities. 

Still, if I'm looking for an intelligent and stylish AC with a notably lower carbon footprint, I'd choose the Windmill WhisperTech unit.

GE ‎PHC06LY

I'd pick the GE PHC06LY if I'm on a budget and want a smart AC that is small and cools a compact space. This WiFi-enabled smart air conditioner pushed alerts to my phone for all schedules I had set.

The integration with GE's SmartHQ app is about as seamless as it gets. For starters, you want a unit that allows you to monitor airflow, different fan speeds, and adjust modes on the go.

Besides the app's convenience, its smart functions extend to voice commands through Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.

On the efficiency front, I was blown by the unit's Eco Mode, which automatically adjusts the compressor and fan speeds to improve its energy efficiency.

I live in a muggier climate, and the dehumidification mode didn't lag while tweaking my indoor moisture levels.

You can scrutinize runtimes, play with eco settings, and optimize cooling schedules to prevent energy waste. While running tests, I could keep precise tabs on usage and fish for potential issues through compressor diagnostics.

The app warns the owner so they can take preemptive action before problems escalate. Additional features on this Energy Star-rated unit, including the power interruption restart, 24-hour on-off timer, and removable filter, make it pretty easy to maintain.

I love how its geofence technology locates your mobile device and automatically adjusts the smart air conditioner settings when you're home. 

After experiencing the PHC06LY's ultra-low 40dB operation, I agree it's as quiet as the Dreo DR-HAC002.

I often recommend the GE ‎PHC06LY to clients craving powerful cooling in a compact BTU package and not wanting to spend money on a pricier model like the LG Dual Inverter window AC.

The 6K BTU smart air conditioner is what I'd go for if I'm looking to cool a small bedroom of about 250 square feet. 

At an estimated $350 price tag, I'd place the PHC06LY in the mid-range category. It blends innovative features and reliable cooling power that suits smaller spaces.

Related article: Small and compact window ACs rated

ROVSUN Smart 

If you're hunting for a budget-friendly smart window AC under $200, the ROVSUN Smart Window Air Conditioner makes a compelling case.

While it doesn't carry the same name recognition as GE or LG, this unit still packs a punch, making it a solid pick for dorm rooms, apartments, and smaller spaces where affordability and connectivity matter.

With built-in WiFi control, I could adjust cooling modes and fan speeds remotely through the Smart Life app. 

The app itself is fairly intuitive, letting me set schedules, tweak temperatures, and even pair the unit with Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant for voice control. No need to fumble with a remote—just tell it what to do.

Cooling-wise, its 6,000 BTU rating is ideal for compact rooms, and I found that it handled spaces up to 250 square feet without struggling, just as advertised.

I appreciated its eco-friendly sleep mode, which automatically adjusts temperature settings to save energy overnight. It’s a practical addition for anyone trying to keep electricity costs in check.

However, the trade-off for this affordability is noise. Even on its lowest setting, the unit hums at 52 dB, making it noticeably louder than premium options like the GE PHC06LY or the ultra-quiet Windmill WhisperTech 10000. 

If you’re a light sleeper, this could be a dealbreaker.

Despite that, the ROVSUN Smart AC is an excellent entry-level option for buyers wanting WiFi connectivity, simple smart controls, and budget-conscious cooling.

It’s not the quietest window AC available, but for under $200, it gets the job done without draining your wallet.

Which types of phones are compatible with smart window ACs?

Smart window air conditioners work with both iOS and Android devices running a relatively recent version.

Will smart ACs work with computers?

Smart window ACs use mobile apps as their primary control method. A few brands, like Friedrich and Sensibo, also have web interfaces that allow users to control their units from a desktop or laptop.

Can you make any window AC 'smart'?

While you can't make a non-smart window AC unit fully WiFi-enabled and app-controlled, some third-party smart accessories can help add some basic remote functionality.

For instance, by plugging a non-smart window AC into a smart plug that connects to your home WiFi, you'll turn the unit on or off from your phone and even create schedules. However, you'll lose out on app controls for modes and temperature settings.