Looking for an air cooler that actually works? With so many choices, it’s tough to know which one will keep you cool without draining your wallet. Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered!

In this guide, we focus on the best air coolers in the UK, reviewing options that balance cooling power, energy efficiency, and affordability.

From compact personal coolers to high-performance evaporative units, we tested a range of products, spending over 40 hours comparing models for cooling efficiency, noise levels, and ease of use.

Our Editor’s Pick, the SHAVINGFUN Portable Air Cooler, stands out for its powerful airflow, lightweight design, and energy efficiency—a great all-in-one cooling solution.

For those who prefer a tower-style cooler, the Midea SmartAir Fast Chill Tower impressed us with its sleek design, multiple modes, and remote control features.

On a budget? The Beldray EH3187 Portable Air Cooler is a compact, cost-effective choice that delivers a refreshing breeze without taking up much space.

Still unsure? No worries—our guide covers options for every budget and space. We’ve even included a product to avoid so you can steer clear of bad buys. Read on to find the best air cooler for your home and beat the heat!

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Essential Air Cooler Features for Effective Cooling

When shopping for an air cooler, there are certain features that should be a given—standard expectations that ensure performance, efficiency, and ease of use. Here’s what you should look for:

• Cooling Performance: The ability to lower temperatures effectively, especially in dry conditions where evaporative cooling works best.
• Adjustable Fan Speeds: Multiple speed settings (low, medium, high) to customise airflow intensity.
• Water Tank Capacity: A larger tank means longer cooling durations without frequent refills. A minimum of 5L is ideal for sustained performance.
• Ice Pack Compatibility: Many air coolers include ice packs or compartments to enhance cooling efficiency.
• Oscillation & Airflow Control: Adjustable vents and oscillation features (typically 60° to 120°) help distribute cool air evenly.
• Quiet Operation: Noise levels should be below 55 dB for comfortable indoor use, especially in bedrooms and offices.
• Portability: Lightweight design with castor wheels for easy movement between rooms.
• Energy Efficiency: Low power consumption (typically under 100W) makes air coolers a cost-effective alternative to AC units.
• Remote Control & Timer: Convenient features for adjusting settings without manual interaction, plus automatic shut-off for energy savings.

Design and Build Quality

An air cooler’s design should be functional, durable, and user-friendly. Key aspects to evaluate include:

• Build Material: Sturdy plastic or metal components for longevity and resistance to wear. Avoid flimsy, low-quality plastics.
• Compact vs. Tower Design: Tower models are slim and space-saving, ideal for smaller rooms, while box-style coolers offer wider air distribution.
• Stable Base: A well-balanced base prevents tipping, especially in households with kids or pets.
• Detachable Water Tank: A removable tank makes refilling and cleaning easier compared to built-in reservoirs.
• LED Display & Touch Controls: Digital controls for easy adjustments and real-time temperature monitoring.

Added Conveniences for Better Performance

While basic air coolers perform well, extra features can enhance usability and convenience. Some high-end models include:

• Humidification Function: Adds moisture to the air, making it ideal for dry environments.
• Air Purification & Filters: Some models include HEPA or dust filters to remove allergens and improve air quality.
• Smart Cooling Modes: Pre-set modes like Night Mode, Eco Mode, or Baby Mode optimise performance for different settings.
• UV Sterilisation: Kills bacteria in water tanks to prevent mould and unpleasant odours.
• Wi-Fi & App Connectivity: Allows remote control via a smartphone app for added convenience.
• Cord Storage & Handle: Helps with organisation and makes moving the unit easier.

When choosing the best air cooler, consider these factors to ensure you’re getting a reliable, efficient, and user-friendly cooling solution tailored to your needs.

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Editors Pick

SHAVINGFUN Portable Air Cooler for Home

The SHAVINGFUN Portable Air Cooler is a multifunctional cooling device designed for home and office use. With its 3-in-1 functionality, it provides cooling, humidification, and air filtration in a lightweight and easy-to-move design.

Key Features

• Adjustable Wind Speeds: Three-speed settings (low, medium, high) for customisable airflow, with convenient remote control adjustments.
• Large 8L Dual Water Tank: Easy to refill the top tank and a lower tank with drainage for simple maintenance. A full tank offers up to 16 hours of cooling.
• Quiet Operation & Timer: Runs at just 50 dB for quiet cooling. Includes a 1-8 hour timer for automatic shut-off to save energy.
• Powerful Airflow & Oscillation: Fan blades swivel 60° or 120° to distribute air evenly across the room.
• Energy Efficient: Uses only 60W, offering a cost-effective alternative to traditional air conditioners.

We recently tested the SHAVINGFUN Portable Air Cooler, and overall, it’s a solid performer. We were impressed by its lightweight design (3.1 kg), making it easy to move around, and the four wheels allowed us to transport it from room to room with no hassle.

The LED touch panel and remote control offered seamless control, making it incredibly user-friendly.

While it works best in dry climates and smaller spaces, the cooling effect can be enhanced with ice packs, which is a nice touch for those in need of extra power. (It may not be as effective in humid environments, so keep that in mind.)

Despite being an evaporative cooler, it’s incredibly quiet (only 50 dB), and its energy efficiency makes it a cost-effective alternative to traditional AC units.

In the end, we found the SHAVINGFUN Portable Air Cooler to be a reliable, eco-friendly, and practical solution for cooling off at home or in the office.

Runner Up

Midea SmartAir Fast Chill Tower with 5L Water Tank - Evaporative Air Cooler

The Midea SmartAir Fast Chill Tower is a versatile 2-in-1 fan and air cooler that provides a refreshing cooling effect using Smart Air Cooler and Fast Chill technology.

With a large 5L water tank, multiple cooling modes, and 60-degree oscillation, it’s a convenient and energy-efficient way to stay comfortable on warm days.

Key Features

• 2-in-1 Cooling System: Actively cools air through a water curtain for a refreshing breeze without external piping.
• 5L Water Tank: Provides up to six hours of cooling and is easy to refill.
• Oscillation & Adjustable Airflow: 60-degree oscillation ensures even air distribution with directional control.
• Three Cooling Modes:
  • Day Mode: Strong airflow for effective cooling.
  • Calm Sleep Mode: Gentle, rhythmic breeze for nighttime comfort.
  • Baby Mode: Ultra-quiet operation for undisturbed rest.
• Ice Pack Compatibility: Includes two ice packs for enhanced cooling.
• Remote Control: Adjust settings conveniently from a distance.

The Midea SmartAir Fast Chill Tower impressed us with its effortless setup and lightweight design, making it one of the easiest cooling solutions to move around the home. It operates quietly, making it ideal for bedrooms, living rooms, and home offices (especially for light sleepers).

The 60-degree oscillation ensures even airflow, and the multiple cooling modes provide flexibility for different needs. The 5L water tank offers extended cooling, and adding the included ice packs enhances its effectiveness.

However, it’s important to note that this is not a full air-conditioning unit, so while it significantly cools the room, it won’t match the power of a traditional A/C. Also, moving it while the tank is full requires some care.

Overall, for an energy-efficient cooling solution, the Midea SmartAir Fast Chill Tower is a fantastic choice, especially when used with ice packs for maximum cooling performance.

Budget Pick

Beldray EH3187 Portable Air Cooler - 6L

The Beldray EH3187 Portable Air Cooler is a great option for personal cooling during warm weather. While it doesn’t function like a full air conditioner, it provides a refreshing breeze that helps beat the heat.

Key Features:

• Adjustable airflow: The cooler has an up-and-down function to direct the airflow where it’s needed.
• Water pump cooling technology: Uses water circulation and includes two ice packs to enhance the cooling effect.
• 6L water tank: Provides hours of operation before needing a refill.
• Portable and compact: Lightweight with 360° castor wheels for easy movement.
• Three speed settings: Allows control over the airflow intensity.

The Beldray EH3187 Portable Air Cooler is a fantastic choice for personal cooling. While it won’t cool an entire room, it provides a refreshing, targeted breeze that makes a real difference on warm days.

Its compact, lightweight design (with smooth 360° castor wheels) makes it easy to move and position wherever needed. We found it works best when used up close, especially with chilled water or ice, for an enhanced cooling effect.

The 6L water tank lasts for hours, and the included ice packs help maintain cooler airflow.

There are a couple of minor downsides—it can be noisy on high settings, and it’s not designed to lower the overall room temperature. However, for an affordable, portable solution, this air cooler performs impressively well. If you need a reliable way to stay cool during hot days, this is a solid investment.

Most Versatile Pick

PELONIS 5L Air Cooler, Evaporative Air Cooler with Remote Control

The PELONIS 5L Air Cooler is a practical solution for cooling and humidifying indoor spaces. We tested it in different conditions and found it to be a solid choice for personal comfort, especially in dry weather.

Key Features

• 3-in-1 Functionality: Functions as an air cooler, tower fan, and humidifier. Adding water boosts humidity, and ice packs enhance cooling.
• Energy Efficient: Uses less power than traditional air conditioners, making it a cost-effective choice.
• Customisable Settings: Three wind modes (normal, natural, sleep) and three fan speeds adjust airflow for comfort.
• Oscillation & Directional Control: 60° oscillation ensures even airflow, with adjustable vents for precise direction.
• Remote & Timer: Adjust settings remotely with a 7-hour timer for added convenience.
• Easy Maintenance: The 5L water tank lasts up to 10 hours, and the detachable filter simplifies cleaning.

The PELONIS 5L Air Cooler is a versatile and efficient cooling solution, especially for dry climates. We found it well-built, compact, and easy to move, thanks to its built-in handle. It delivers a refreshing breeze and enhances airflow, particularly when using ice-cold water for added cooling.

The customisable settings allow for tailored comfort, and the 7-hour timer makes it great for nighttime use. While it doesn’t cool a room like an air conditioner, it noticeably improves comfort. Noise levels are reasonable but not whisper-quiet, so it may require slight adjustments for light sleepers.

The design is sleek and modern, making it a stylish addition to any space. It’s also energy-efficient, consuming far less power than traditional cooling systems.

Overall, this PELONIS Air Cooler is a fantastic alternative to standard fans, offering better airflow and added humidity control—a great value for those looking for an affordable cooling option.

Fastest Cooling Power Pick

HOMCOM Portable 3-in-1 Air Cooler with 5 Litre Capacity

The HOMCOM Portable 3-in-1 Air Cooler is a versatile cooling solution designed for small to medium-sized rooms. With its multi-function cooling system, easy operation, and portable design, it provides an efficient way to stay comfortable during warm weather.

Key Features

• Effective Cooling: Covers up to 15-20m² with three cooling modes—cold air fan, cold air fan with ice, and humidifier.
• Wide Airflow: 60-degree oscillation ensures better air distribution for faster cooling.
• Customisable Settings: Choose from three fan speeds (low, medium, high) and three modes (normal, natural, sleep) for personalised comfort.
• User-Friendly Controls: LED screen and remote control make it easy to adjust settings from anywhere in the room.
• 15-Hour Timer: Allows automatic shut-off for energy-saving operation, ideal for nighttime use.
• Portable Design: Swivel casters with locking brakes for effortless movement between rooms.
• 5L Water Tank: Provides up to 7 hours of continuous operation before refilling.

The HOMCOM Portable 3-in-1 Air Cooler impressed us with its versatile cooling power and user-friendly features. The oscillating airflow ensures even distribution, and the humidifier function adds a refreshing touch—especially in dry conditions.

We loved how quiet it runs, making it ideal for bedrooms and home offices. The remote control and 15-hour timer make it incredibly convenient, allowing adjustments without getting up. Swivel casters make it effortless to move between rooms, and the no-tool assembly means it’s ready to use in minutes.

While it’s not a full air conditioner (so don’t expect ice-cold air), it significantly improves comfort in small to medium-sized spaces. Plus, the washable air filter helps keep the air fresh and clean.

Overall, this is a fantastic option for anyone seeking an affordable, portable air conditioners, and effective way to stay cool during warm weather.

One To Avoid

BLACK+DECKER BXAC65002GB Digital Air Cooler

The BLACK+DECKER BXAC65002GB Digital Air Cooler is one to avoid. We tested it thoroughly, and while it has some redeeming qualities, its flaws far outweigh any benefits.

At first glance, the unit seems promising with its 2-in-1 air cooler and fan functionality. It’s lightweight, easy to move, and has a 7L detachable water tank that reduces the need for frequent refills. However, the cooling effect is minimal at best, even when using the included ice packs.

In larger rooms, the temperature drop is barely noticeable. The build quality is underwhelming, with a plastic exterior that feels flimsy. The fan has three-speed settings, but even at the lowest, it is uncomfortably loud. The swing function helps circulate air, but the airflow itself is weak.

Worse, using this unit for extended periods increases humidity, making the room feel damp rather than cool. While it might provide some relief if you sit directly in front of it, it simply does not work as an effective cooling solution.

In reality, a standard fan performs just as well—if not better—at a fraction of the cost. This is a disappointing and overpriced alternative to real air conditioning.

How We Tested and Chose the Best Air Coolers

Finding the best air cooler requires more than just switching it on and feeling the breeze. We took a deep dive into key factors that matter most—cooling performance, airflow, energy efficiency, and overall value. Here’s how we did it.

Cooling Performance

To measure how effective each air cooler was, we tracked temperature changes before and after use at set intervals, including 30 minutes and an hour.

We also tested how well each model performed in different room sizes and under varying humidity levels since evaporative coolers are more effective in dry environments. To push the limits, we tested cooling efficiency with and without ice packs to see if they made a noticeable difference.

Airflow and Distribution

A strong air cooler should provide consistent airflow throughout a space. We assessed how far cool air reached by measuring the cooling effect at different distances. Models with oscillation were tested to see how well they distributed air across the room.

We also evaluated the range of fan speed settings to ensure they offered practical adjustments for different cooling needs.

Noise Levels

An air cooler should keep you comfortable without being disruptive. We measured noise levels at various fan speeds to determine whether they were quiet enough for use in a bedroom or office.

We also tested them in different settings to see if the sound was noticeable during daily activities like working, watching TV, or sleeping.

Water Tank and Ice Pack Efficiency

Water tank capacity plays a big role in how long an air cooler can operate before needing a refill. We tested how long each model could run on a full tank and how easy it was to refill and clean.

For models that included ice packs, we checked whether they provided a meaningful improvement in cooling performance.

Energy Efficiency

Air coolers are a popular alternative to traditional air conditioners because they consume less energy. To verify this, we measured the power consumption of each model at different settings.

We then compared cooling effectiveness to energy usage to determine which units offered the best balance of performance and efficiency.

Design and Build Quality

A well-designed air cooler should be sturdy, easy to move, and simple to use. We examined the materials used in construction to determine durability, checking for flimsy plastic parts or weak fittings that could break over time.

We also tested how easy each unit was to move around, considering weight, wheel functionality, and handle placement. For ease of use, we looked at the responsiveness of control panels, remote functions, and the clarity of display screens.

Extra Features and Convenience

Some air coolers come with additional features that can enhance usability. We tested remote controls to check their range and responsiveness, as well as smart modes like night, eco, and baby modes, to see if they provided noticeable benefits.

Air coolers with built-in filters were assessed for their ability to improve air quality by capturing dust and allergens.

Long-Term Reliability and Maintenance

A good air cooler should last more than just one season. We tested how easy it was to clean and maintain each unit, focusing on water tank accessibility and filter removability. We also checked for signs of leaks, mould buildup, or excess condensation that could indicate long-term durability issues.

Value for Money

Finally, we compared each air cooler’s performance to its price, determining whether the features and cooling capabilities justified the cost. We also reviewed warranties, return policies, and brand reputation to ensure customers would receive good long-term support.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Difference Between a Room Cooler and an Air Cooler?

The difference between a room cooler and an air cooler lies in their cooling mechanisms and coverage. A room cooler is typically larger and designed for cooling entire spaces, often requiring more water and power.

An air cooler, on the other hand, is more compact and best suited for personal or small-area cooling warm air.

Do Air Coolers Work in the UK?

Air coolers do work in the UK, but their effectiveness depends on humidity levels. Since air coolers rely on evaporative cooling, they work best in dry conditions. In the UK’s often humid climate, they provide a cooling breeze but may not be as effective as in drier regions, especially during damp summers.

Am I Better Off With a Fan or an Air Cooler?

Choosing between a fan and an air cooler in the UK depends on cooling needs. A fan circulates air, providing relief through airflow, while an air cooler actively lowers temperatures through water evaporation,

In humid conditions, a fan may be more effective, whereas an air cooler is better for dry, stuffy rooms.

Is It OK to Sleep With an Air Cooler On?

It is generally OK to sleep with an air cooler on as long as it is used correctly. Many air coolers have night modes with lower noise levels and reduced airflow for comfort. However, prolonged use in humid conditions may increase moisture in the air, potentially making the room feel damp.

Which Is Better, an Air Cooler or a Tower Fan?

Whether an air cooler or a tower fan is better depends on cooling preferences. An air cooler provides moisture-based cooling, making it more effective in dry environments, while a tower fan improves airflow without affecting humidity.

A tower fan is ideal for steady airflow, while an air cooler offers a slight cooling effect.

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Final Word

We hope our Best Air Cooler UK guide has helped you find the right model for your needs. With so many options, choosing can be tricky, but our top pick is clear—the SHAVINGFUN Portable Air Cooler.

It delivers powerful airflow, energy efficiency, and added features like humidification and air filtration, making it a great all-rounder for home or office use.

While most models we reviewed offer great value, one stands out for the wrong reasons—the BLACK+DECKER BXAC65002GB Digital Air Cooler. Despite its well-known brand, it underperforms, offering weak airflow and minimal cooling.

Worse, it increases humidity, making rooms feel damp rather than refreshing. A basic fan would be a better investment.

What do you think of our guide? Are you ready to upgrade your cooling setup, or still deciding? Let us know in the comments—we’d love to hear from you!