Air Cooler Vs Air Conditioner [Comparison & Key Differences]

“Different strokes for different folks” is a proverb that now resonates in our everyday situations. But we do know that the choices we make are not just based on preference, but on needs and purchasing power.

All across the globe; in hot, humid and arid regions, people have had to rely on appliances like air conditioners and air coolers to make their homes more comfortable.

While air conditioners are the most popular appliance for cooling and drying the air, air coolers are becoming increasingly popular in many homes as well.

So, if you’re looking to purchase a cooling appliance and you just can’t make up your mind whether an air conditioner is what you need or if an air cooler will do the job, this post will help you make a decision. We’ll show you how both appliances compare and which is best for what situation.

Air Coolers vs Air Conditioners [Comparison]

We’ll compare these two using the following parameters:

1. Efficiency

Air Coolers were introduced for a number of reasons, including their energy efficiency and eco-friendly design.

Air Conditioners, on the other hand, use up more energy and are less eco-friendly.

However, air conditioners are known to last longer and provide more cooling effect than air coolers.

2. Mode of Operation

An air conditioner works by collecting warm air in your room and transform them into cooler, drier air, which is released back into the room.

The unit uses chemical coolant and refrigerant. The air cooler, on the other hand, uses water (and sometimes ice) as its cooling agent.

With the air blowing over the water, vaporization takes place and cool mist is released into the air. This also means air coolers are better in dry and hot areas, as they produce some sort of humidity.

Meanwhile, an air conditioner produces only dry air and can work well in hot and humid areas.

3. Output

One HorsePower air conditioner unit uses an estimated 750 watts and 1,125 for a 1.5 HP unit. This will amount to about 1.125 kW/h for a regular 1.5 HP air conditioner unit.

On the flipside, the average air cooler will run on between 100W and 300W. If you use your air cooler efficiently, you may use up only about 1 kW/h.

4. Installation

This is another area where an air cooler differs from an air conditioner. An air cooler can simply be placed on the floor or on a table anywhere in the room.

Meanwhile, an air conditioner (depending on the type) can be hung on the roof (central unit), attached to the window (window units) or on the wall (split units).

A typical split air conditioner unit consists of a vent (placed inside the room) and the outdoor unit which has a compressor, coils and fan.

5. Portability

Another difference between the two units is the portability of the air cooler. They are smaller and can easily be moved around from one place to another.

The air conditioner, on the other hand, is not easily uncountable or moved around because it is larger and requires fixed installation.

6. Price

In terms of price, air coolers are also quite cheaper. You can get a good quality air cooler between $120 and $350, while an air conditioner will cost you as much as $1,500 or more.

7. Resilience

Another factor we must consider is how long each appliance can be used. Practically, both appliances can last longer than 10 years if used properly.

An air cooler may require fan replacement occasionally, but as a unit, they will last as long as an air conditioner.

8. Cost of Maintenance

Cost of maintenance is often included as part of the overall cost of an appliance. An air conditioner would require gas filling, at least once every two years (if used at the standard rate).

Parts may also go bad and require replacement occasionally. An air cooler mostly runs on minimal electricity and water. Occasional fan replacement may also constitute maintenance costs.

Top 3 Air Coolers We Recommend

1. BREEZEWELL 3-IN-1 Portable Air Conditioner & Evaporative Air Cooler [Value for Money]

It has dual tanks that can take up a gallon of water, with 2 ice bags for cooling. There’s also a remote control for easy manipulation, and all of these come at a very competitive price.

Key Features

• 65-degree maximum swing
• 3 modes
• 3 adjustable speeds
• 1 gallon water tank
• 12 hour timer
• Removable filter cover
• Remote control

Benefits

• Very dynamic operation
• Large water reservoir
• Convenient operation with remote control
• Ability to humidity the room
• Portable design for easy transport
• Energy efficient
• Has a filter cover to remove particles.

2. Hessaire MC18M Portable Evaporative Cooler [Best Price]

Key Features

• Manually adjustable louvers
• 5 speed settings
• 2 cooling modes
• Includes continuous water fill feature to keep supply of water going
• Weighs 16 pounds
• Heavy duty casters

Benefits

• Has a brass float adapter that keeps auto water supply in check
• Manageable noise level
• Powerful fans for indoor and outdoor use
• Quite easy to use
• Very affordable

3. COMFYHOME 3-IN-1 Portable Air Conditioner [Excellent Features]

Key Features

• 3-in-1 design
• Water tank access at the top
• 65-degree oscillation
• 12-hour smart timer
• 3 speeds and 3 modes
• Remote control

Benefits

• Water tank can take up to 1 gallon
• Quiet operation
• Easy mobility and transport
• Portable design
• Comes with 2 ice packs for cooling effects
• Easy to operate

Comparison above listed 3 Air Coolers

	Oscillation	Fan Speeds	Coverage	Remote Control
BREEZEWELL	65 degrees	3	500 sq ft	Yes
Hessaire MC18M	NA	5	500 sq ft	Yes
COMFYHOME	65 degrees	3	170 sq ft	Yes

Top 3 Air Conditioners We Recommend

1. MIDEA EasyCool Window Air Conditioner [Value for Money]

Key Features

• Weighs 74.8 pounds
• 1,000 watts
• Uses a remote control
• 3-mode operation
• LED digital display panel
• Upper and lower vent

Benefits

• Can cover as much as 550 sq ft
• Easy to control
• No need for significant damage to the house for installation
• Sleep mode for quiet operation
• 24-hour timer for auto turn off
• Fast and eco-friendly efficiency

2. GE AHY10LZ Smart Window Air Conditioner [Best Price]

So, whether it’s in operation, performance or power, this air conditioner unit is certainly worth your attention.

Key Features

• 3 cool speeds
• 3 fan speeds
• 2-way air direction
• Air filter included
• Wifi connectivity
• Easy remote control

Benefits

• Easy to install in precut window
• Smartphone control
• Effective Dehumidification
• Covers up to 450 sq ft
• Quite budget friendly
• Air filter easy to clean

3. Commercial Cool CSAH1820 AC Split Air Conditioner [Best Split Option]

Within its ranks, this Commercial Cool entry stands tall.

Key Features

• 18,000 BTU/h cooling capacity
• 19,000 BTU/h heating capacity
• 5 operating modes
• Whisper quiet technology
• Remote control Included
• Auto restart function

Benefits

• Quite easy to operate
• Pre-charged refrigerant lines for easy installation
• Low noise at highest mode
• Can cover up to 1,000 sq ft
• Quick cooling and heating options
• High performance for cooling and heating

Comparison of above listed Air Conditioners

	BTU	Fan Speeds	Coverage	Remote Control
MIDEA Easycool	12,000	3	550 sq ft	Yes
GE AHY10LZ	10,000	3	450 sq ft	Yes
Commercial Cool	18,000	5	1,000 sq ft	Yes

Final Words:

We hope this post provides all the information you need. And so you’re not left wondering where to start, the reviews have been added to help you make an informed choice when you shop for an air cooler or air conditioner.