
SPEED READER ENHANCED PORTABLE PORTABLE
Accessibility: With the understanding that maneuvering a portable AC into position and connecting its exhaust hoses can be physically difficult if not impossible for people with limited mobility, we sought models that made this process relatively easy, and we took note of any that used an app, remote control, scheduling, or other automations to make the devices easier to use for anyone once they’re installed and running regularly.Accessories: We looked for features such as cord storage, a remote, or the ability to connect to an app-minor factors that we noted but didn’t hang any big decisions on.Overall user experience: We evaluated what it was like to live with these machines, how intuitive they were to control, what size footprint they occupied, and what it would be like to store them in the off-season.We then measured the actual noise output of our finalists, noting any obnoxious mechanical sounds or frequencies. Noise: We dismissed any models with an advertised noise rating of 56 decibels or higher.Portability: All of the units we tested had casters, but we also looked into how easy they were to move around or lift, as well as how easy they were to break down.Performance: We evaluated how quickly a unit cooled the room and how well it dispersed that coolness throughout the space.



In our tests, it was also remarkably effective at distributing the cool air, never leaving more than a 1-degree temperature difference across the room. Rather than running only at max speed or nothing, the Midea’s inverter-powered compressor can operate at a continuously variable speed, so the unit has a lot more flexibility in how it reaches a desired temperature in a wide range of temperature and humidity conditions. Most portable ACs are pretty similar, but the Midea Duo MAP12S1TBL delivers better cooling performance than other models while using less energy and making less noise.
