Brand
Price
Top filters (8)
Size (capacity)
Reverse cycle or cooling only
Rated cooling capacity (kW)
Rated heating capacity (kW)
Yearly running cost – cold zone
Yearly running cost – average zone
Yearly running cost – hot zone
Test results (2)
Airflow Score
Cooling Efficiency Score
Product reviews
We review split-system air conditioners (with an indoor unit on the wall, connected to an outdoor unit) ranging from small 2kW models for a single bedroom, up to large models of 10kW or more that are suitable for an open-plan living area.
- Read our guide to choosing the right size air conditioner for your home.
- Our advice on air conditioner energy saving will help keep the running costs down.
Our review covers reverse-cycle air conditioners for both cooling and heating, as well as cooling-only models.
We’ve also partnered with Shop Ethical on this update to show the ratings the Ethical Consumer Group gives to each company.
To pick the best models in the capacity you need, you can just pick a Recommended model in that size and type. Or you can use the filters to select the best models based on the below.
- Brand reliability – the brands that rate well in our member surveys.
- Running costs – the better the cooling and heating efficiency score, the cheaper the unit is to run.
- Noise – for the indoor and outdoor units (we show the quietest indoor fan setting where possible).
- Airflow – it’s good to have a useful range of fan speeds, from quiet breeze to powerful blast.
This review now includes zoned star ratings for each model where available. Check out our air conditioners buying guide for more details about the zoned energy rating label. The running costs are now also based on the rated energy usage in each zone, so you can see how much each model is likely to cost you to run in your location.
A note about scores
Scores are not comparable between size groups. For example, it’s unfair to expect the same level of efficiency from a large model as for a small one – larger models aren’t as energy-efficient, but they have more powerful fans and can cool or heat a much larger space. Scores can change from the previous reviews as newer more efficient models enter the market.
Our reviews are based on data provided by manufacturers, cross-checked against the government registry database. Read how we test air conditioners for more details about our method.