When summer hits hard, as it always does in London, portable cooling solutions become a must-have. For renters who can’t install permanent systems, or homeowners looking to cool just one room, portable air conditioners and air coolers offer an accessible alternative. But what’s the difference between the two, and which one should you choose?

In this guide, we’ll break down the two main options, portable air conditioners and air coolers (evaporative coolers),  looking at how they work, how they differ, and which might be right for you.

What Is a Portable Air Conditioner?

A portable air conditioner (often shortened to portable air con or portable aircon) is a self-contained cooling unit that can be moved from room to room. It works similarly to a traditional air conditioner but doesn’t require permanent installation.

How it works:

Portable air cons use refrigerants to extract heat and moisture from indoor air. This hot air is then vented outside through a hose, typically out of a nearby window. Meanwhile, the cool, dehumidified air is blown back into the room.

Typical features:

• Built-in thermostat
• Dehumidifier mode
• Remote control and digital display
• Multiple fan speeds and timers 

Pros:

• Powerful and effective cooling, even in humid conditions
• Can cool larger spaces than air coolers
• Helps reduce humidity 

Cons:

• Usually requires venting through a window or wall (though there are some ventless options)
• Can be noisy, depending on which model you choose and how light of a sleeper you are!

What Is an Air Cooler (Evaporative Cooler)?

An air cooler, also known as an evaporative cooler, is a simpler cooling device. Rather than using refrigerant, it cools air through the natural process of water evaporation.

How it works:

Air is pulled through water-soaked pads or filters. As it passes through, the water evaporates, which cools the air before it’s pushed back into the room. Some models include an ice compartment to boost the cooling effect.

Ideal conditions:

Air coolers work best in hot, dry climates. They are less effective in humid environments, where the air is already saturated with moisture.

Typical features:

• Water tank (needs regular refilling)
• Fan speed settings
• Ice compartment (on some models)
• Swing or oscillation function for air distribution

Pros:

• Energy efficient
• No venting required
• Lightweight and easy to move
• Adds moisture to dry air (beneficial in dry climates)

Cons:

• Less effective in humid environments
• Cooling is milder than an air conditioner
• Requires regular maintenance (cleaning and refilling water)

Key Differences at a Glance

Feature	Portable Air Conditioner	Air Cooler
Cooling Method	Refrigerant-based, removes heat	Water evaporation
Humidity Effect	Dehumidifies the air	Adds moisture
Energy Use	Higher	Lower
Setup	Vented and ventless options available	No venting required
Running Cost	Higher due to electricity use	Low
Best for	Humid, enclosed spaces	Dry, well-ventilated spaces

 

Which One Is Right for You?

To choose between a portable air con and an air cooler, consider your needs and environment.

Ask yourself:

• Do you need powerful cooling or mild relief? If you’re trying to cool a larger room or need to lower the temperature significantly, a portable air conditioner is a better choice.
• Is your climate dry or humid? Air coolers work best in dry heat. If you’re in a humid area, the added moisture could make things worse. Portable air cons are ideal for humid conditions as they also dehumidify the air.
• What’s your budget for running costs? Air coolers are more energy-efficient and cheaper to run, though they don’t offer the same level of cooling. Portable air conditioners offer better cooling performance but at a higher electricity cost.

The Final Verdict

Both portable air conditioners and air coolers serve a purpose, but they cater to different needs:

• Choose a portable air con if you live in a humid area and need strong cooling power.
• Choose an air cooler if you live in a dry climate, want an energy-efficient option, and are looking for a simple, lightweight solution.

Ultimately, the right option depends on your climate, room size, and personal preferences. Still unsure? Use our air con calculator to determine how many units you need to cool your space.