Want to beat the sweltering heat but don’t want to buy an expensive aircon? (Hey, maybe you do) Is your stand fan just not effective? A portable air cooler solves both problems. Before you put down thousands of dollars for a System 4 super setup, consider why the best portable air cooler is the better option:
- Lower installation and maintenance: Air coolers are less expensive than air conditioners are require minimal installation, if any. With fewer components and no refrigerants, they require less servicing.
- Energy efficiency: Portable coolers are much more energy-friendly than air conditioners because they do not have power-hungry compressors. This means lower electricity bills.
- Environmentally friendly: Air coolers do not use harmful refrigerants or emit greenhouse gases that contribute to climate change or ozone depletion.
- Better air quality: Air coolers do not recirculate the air inside a room but draw fresh air from the outside. This helps remove dust, allergens and odours from the room.
- Versatility: Air conditioners require a sealed environment but air coolers work well in partially open spaces or rooms, too. They are effective in open-plan spaces and even outdoor areas. Move them wherever you need.
Choosing the best portable air cooler
Not all portable coolers are made the same. Look at these features when you are choosing between models.
- Cooling capacity: Consider the room size and the climate in your area to ensure the air cooler can effectively cool the intended area.
- Airflow and fan speed: Adjustable fan speeds and multiple airflow settings allow you to customise the cooling intensity based on your preferences and ambient temperature.
- Water tank capacity: A larger tank will require less frequent refills if you use the cooler for extended periods
- Portability: A compact size and shape and caster wheels or handles make for easy mobility.
- Evaporative cooling pads: High-quality evaporative cooling pads offer better cooling efficiency and durability.
- Energy efficiency: Energy tick rating, and features such as programmable timers, sleep modes, and adjustable thermostat settings reduce electricity consumption and save on energy bills.
- Noise levels: Look for models that operate quietly, especially if you plan to use them in bedrooms, offices or other noise-sensitive areas.
- Additional features: Features such as remote controls, digital displays, air purifying capabilities, and built-in humidifiers are always a plus.
We have also factored in price and build quality in creating our list. Here are the 10 best portable air coolers in Singapore right now.
1. Mistral MAC1600R
- Coverage: 269 ft2/25 m2
- Water tank capacity: 15 L
- Speed options: 6
- Others: Built-in ioniser & humidifier; LED panel; remote control
Buy now from S$259 on Amazon
2. Sona SAC6303 Portable Air Cooler
- Air flow timer volume: 410 m3/h
- Water tank capacity: 10 L
- Speed options: 3
- Noise: dB
- Others: Built-in humidifier; remote control; LED display
Buy now from S$155 on Amazon
3. PowerPac iFan PP7880
- Air flow timer volume: 1,432 m3/h
- Coverage: 161 ft2/15 m2
- Water tank capacity: 11 L
- Speed options: 3
- Others: Built-in ioniser
Buy now from S$199 on Amazon
4. Tecno Turbo TAF2901 Portable Air Cooler
- Water tank capacity: 6 L
- Speed options: 3
- Others: LED display; remote control; removable water tank; dustproof filter
Buy now from S$258 on Amazon
5. Mistral MAC1000R
- Air flow volume: 1,000 m3/h
- Coverage: 215 ft2/20 m2
- Water tank capacity: 10 L
- Speed options: 3
- Others: Built-in humidifier; remote control
Buy now from S$198 on Amazon
6. EuropAce 5-in-1 Evaporative Air Cooler | ECO 8401
- Air flow volume: 3,500 m3/h
- Water tank capacity: 40 L
- Speed options: 6
- Noise: 62 dB
- Others: Built-in ioniser
Buy now from S$699 on Amazon
7. TIOKVIOP Desktop Evaporative Air Cooler
- Air flow volume: 34 m3/h
- Water tank capacity: 0.9 L
- Speed options: 3 (+3 wind modes)
- Others: LED light, adjustable wind speed, cool mist, 2-8hr timer, 900g light
Buy now from S$69 on Amazon
8. Maogear Portable Air Conditioner
- Water tank capacity: 0.3 L
- Speed options: 3
- Others: LED light, adjustable wind speed, cool mist, 560g light
Buy now from S$38 on Amazon
9. Sona SAC 6029
- Air flow timer volume: 480 m3/h
- Water tank capacity: 8 L
- Speed options: 3
- Noise: 40 dB
- Others: Remote control; Ice Pack x 2, Ioniser, Humidifier, 12hr timer
Buy now from S$329 on Amazon
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