Portable air conditioners and cooling fans are fantastic utility accessories that offer an extensive list of uses. It can be used at home, while traveling and even when you’re engaging in outdoor activities. These are very useful during summer should your air conditioners need reinforcement. It is equally helpful during colder months and winter when you choose not to turn on your air con anymore but still need to feel some fresh air on your skin.
Look forward to convenience and a lot of savings on electricity cost! We have prepared this list of the most purchased and most reviewed 12V air conditioners and cooling fans that will surely entice you to get one at the end of this feature.
Top 10 Portable Air Conditioners and Cooling Fans
1. Icy Breeze Cooler Chill Package
You can surely chill anywhere with the Icy Breeze Cooler. This portable air conditioner will surprise you with its capabilities. It is built with a rugged polyethylene material that ensures to keep 30 lbs. of ice for up to 7 days.
This portable air cooler powers a 3-speed fan that blows up to 25MPH of cold air, anytime and anywhere you want it. It has an integrated vent and stay-put flexi-hose that allows users to direct the blower wherever it is needed.
The IcyBreeze Cooler comes with a 12V power supply cord that is compatible with cigarette lighter/car charger ports in cars, trucks and boats. It is important to note that this equipment is not rechargeable and will only work when its plugged. It also comes in a 110V model.
In can also be alternatively used as a storage cooler to keep your refreshments cold, longer. In fact, it can hold up to forty-nine (49) cans. This portable air conditioner measures: 23.5” (L) x 16.26” (W) x 18.5” (H) and weighs 16lbs.
PROS
- Produces long-lasting coolness
- 12V compatible
- 3-speed fan
- Multi-purpose cooler/storage
CONS
- It needs ice to produce cold air
- Bulky
- List Element
Bottom line:
There are many possible uses for this portable air cooler, but it is most suitable for recreation and perfect for traveling. It is a bit on a high price point and reliant on ice to produce cold air, but the accessories like the air vent and the 3-speed fan make it stand out.
2. MightyKool A 12-volt Air Cooler
MightyKool is a powerful portable air conditioner where cold air is produced by water. It can hold about 1 gallon of water and promises to make an area 25 degrees cooler during the dry season and 10 degrees cooler during humid season.
It has two adjustable air vents and two fans inside the unit enclosed in a tool-box like enclosure. It has a water level indicator in front, a fan control knob at the back together with the fan openings and water cartridge on the rear right.
Any 12V cigarette lighter port in any vehicle or home can power on this equipment. You may opt to install a fan hose at the back of the unit for reinforced cooling and hoses on the air vent to blow air directly to where it is needed. It is best used in camper vehicles, pet rooms and rooms that need auxiliary cooling. It can also be plugged directly to a 110V outlet.
PROS
- Portable
- 12V compatible
- Adjustable fans
CONS
- It needs water to produce cool air
- Cold water is necessary for better temperature
3. Arctic Air Portable Air Plane Air Conditioner
Arctic Air is a household name for portable cooling systems. This portable air conditioner is made especially for airplane use. It is designed to fit in between seats of a Lance and Saratoga planes and to fit behind the front seats of most aircraft. It is also Arctic Air’s slimmest unit yet. Should you need more leg room, this can comfortably fit in the baggage compartment of an airplane.
It has a sufficiently flexible and removable duct which can be pointed towards the back seats of a plane to get more air. It is covered in ballistic nylon fabric with straps on both sides that can be attached to safety belts as necessary.
The unit is equipped with two fans for maximum airflow. The 12V plug comes with a switch it so you can turn the fans and pump on and off easily. The unit has a pump out feature to take out excess water out of the unit with a 6-inch drain hose.
The Arctic Air will make an area cooler in just an hour and a half in high cool settings and three hours on low cool and uses ice to generate cold air for an airplane or any vehicle.
PROS
- Produces long-lasting coolness
- 12V compatible
- High cool and low cool settings
- Multi-purpose cooler/storage
CONS
- It needs ice to produce cold air
- It is quite noisy
- High price point
Bottom line:
The Arctic Air Portable Air Conditioner is highly specialized for a plane in terms of size, materials and make. It also costs 70% more than other air coolers in the market, but it is definitely worth it considering the thousands of dollars you will need to spend on a plane air conditioning system. This portable air conditioner will surely be a smart and convenient alternative.
4. Excoup 12V 360-Degree Rotating Cooling Fan
This 360-degree rotating cooling fan from Excoup is the perfect dashboard accessory in your car. Whether your car’s air conditioning system broke down or if it is insufficient during summer, you will need this energy-efficient reinforcement.
It can be directly connected and powered by the 12V and installed conveniently in the passenger side dashboard, or it could sit right on top where the air conditioning vents are. The fan heads can be directed at any angle in your vehicle by manually rotating it up to 360 degrees. It can also pan 180 degrees left and right to ensure that there will be no blind spots while driving. The fan speed is adjustable to 1 and 2.
The unit comes with two fan heads, 12V cord, adhesives and user manuals. You can also purchase a DC adapter to use the fan at home.
PROS
- Portable
- 12V compatible
- 2-speed fan settings
- Affordable
- Easy to install
CONS
- Does not produce cold air
This fan is portable and affordable. These alone can draw buyers attention. Even though the Excoup 12V Cooling Fan does not produce cold air, it is an excellent reinforcement to your vehicle’s air conditioning without straining the car’s blower during summer.
5. Fan-tastic Vent Endless Breeze 12V Fan
Big in size and airflow, that’s how Fan-tastic Vent Endless Breeze Fan is for most of its users. It is being marketed as a fan perfect for dog cages and camper vans.
It is a box-type fan that has a plastic grill enclosure. It can be used for various purposes, but it can be best utilized in trucks, vans, pet cages, poultry and even at home, as long as there is a 12V connection available.
Its 3-speed fan can produce 10MPH. Despite its power, this fan is surprisingly quiet. It can be mounted in between the driver’s and passenger’s seats, secured with cables ties to deliver reinforced cool air at the back of the vehicle.
PROS
- Portable
- 12V compatible
- 3-speed fan settings
- Low noise operation
- Easy to install
CONS
- Does not produce cold air
Bottom line:
This fan has many functions aside from delivering better airflow in areas where it’s installed. Although it does not have the features of an air cooler, it helps improve the temperature and helps transport cooler area in larger areas. The only downside is that it seems a little overpriced for its functions.
6. Taotou Car Cooling Air Fan 12V
If you are looking for a portable cooling fan that you can use in your car, during campings or even on your office desk, Taotou 12V Air Fan is the one you are looking for. This sleek looking piece of equipment is perfect for your car’s dashboard with its discreet black and blue color and modern design. The air vents resemble a car’s air conditioning vents so it will not be an eyesore.
It is low noise and only needs a 12V plug in your car to start running. This portable fan is easy to carry at 1.15 pounds. The vent can be moved up and down for your convenience. Your out of town trips will be more enjoyable with this handy and powerful fan.
PROS
- Portable
- 12V compatible
- 2-speed fan settings
- Easy to install
CONS
- Does not produce cold air
Bottom line:
This fan is simple in terms of design and functions, but it delivers what is expected from it without producing too much noise or consuming too much energy. It will surely be a great car and home accessory.
7. GoCool 12V Portable Air Conditioner
This is probably the most advanced portable air conditioner in the market today. As for its design, it looks like a mini ref made with durable plastic material. It has an air vent on top, a control panel on its right and a drain valve at the bottom. On both side of the unit are carrying handles. At the back is a retractable trolley and two wheels making it easy to move.
This air cool utilizes the cold air produced by melting ice. The interior of the unit has a capacity of 40 lbs. of bagged ice. The control panel can be programmed to generate less cool and the coolest air possible. The fan can also be adjusted to High and Low. It has a “Low Ice” indicator as well. Draining the water from the melted ice won't be a problem with a 6-feet drain hose that comes with the GoCool.
There are also multiple ways to power this portable air conditioner. The standard is the 12V car lighter connection, but you may also plug it directly on a 110V outlet. Another great feature is its rechargeable battery pack. This enables users to use this air cooler during campings, barbecues and even during power outages. It can also be used as a storage and cooler and can hold four (4) one-gallon jugs or nine (9) 2-liter bottles.
PROS
- Produces long-lasting coolness
- 12V compatible
- Rechargeable battery pack
- Programmable control panel
- Multi-purpose cooler/storage
- Retractable trolley with wheels
CONS
- It needs ice to produce cold air
- Bulky
Bottom line:
This excellent product is indeed a breath of fresh air in its league. GoCool took their portable air cooler to the next level by equipping it with a programmable control panel, a rechargeable battery pack and a bigger interior to hold more ice for cooling and more storage when necessary.
8. Poraxy Rear Seat 12V Car Fan
When the temperature gets too hot outside, the car’s air conditioning system does not perform at its best. Most of the time, those who occupy the rear seats suffer. Most portable car fans are intended for the dashboard only, but it can be an obstruction to the driver’s view. Poraxy brand came up with the best solution to bring more air inside the car and help the car’s AC as well – the Poraxy Rear Seat Car Fan.
It is an easy-to-install fan that comes with a car headrest mount and lock that will be attached to the headrest stand of the driver’s or passenger’s seat. The fans are 360-degree rotatable and will surely bring comfort to the passengers at the back of your car.
The standard kit comes with the dual fan heads, headrest mount, lock and the 12V cord. The cord is also equipped with the fan switch to increase or lower the speed.
PROS
- Designed exclusively for headrest mounting
- 12V compatible
- 2-speed fan settings
- Affordable
CONS
- Does not produce cold air
- Cannot be used in other locations
Bottom line:
This fan with an exclusive purpose will surely delight car owners. It will be a fantastic add on to their vehicle for the comfort of their passengers without spending too much.
9. Anpress 12V Portable Mini Car Fan
Portable car fans are becoming a trend not only to be used during summer, but it can also be used standalone during the colder months, so you don’t have to use your AC anymore. While most brands come with dual fans, Anpress went with a smaller version to avoid view obstruction in the dashboard.
This fan can easily be rotated in different angles with its 360-rotating head. It is easy to install in the dashboard or can be placed behind the headrests to help circulate air at the back of your car.
The fan has five plastic blades, a stable base with adhesives, On/Off switch and it comes with a standard 12V car charger head.
PROS
- Portable
- 12V compatible
- Affordable
- Easy to install
- 360-degree rotatable
CONS
- Does not produce cold air
- Single fan speed
Bottom line:
This affordable fan is a perfect alternative for dual head fans for your car. It takes up a much smaller space yet provides the additional airflow that you need. With a little creativity, this fan can also be utilized in other areas.
10. RoadPro 12V Tornado Fan with Removable Mounting Clip
The RoadPro 12V Tornado Fan promises to be the most powerful 12V fan there is in the market. It may be small in size but delivers and helps circulate air effectively while consuming a little power. It is perfect to be used in cars, trucks and vans.
It comes with a removable mounting clip that allows the users to transfer it wherever necessary. But it also comes with a mounting base should you decide on its permanent location. The barrel-shaped fan head can be tilted and can be swiveled. Likewise, variable speed can be controlled. The 12V charger head is attached to a 15-feet fused power cord with a power consumption of 4 amps.
PROS
- Portable
- 12V compatible
- Affordable
- Easy to install
- Can use a mounting clip or permanently mounted
CONS
- Does not produce cold air
- Item is too light and feels flimsy
Bottom line:
Affordability and durability do not always go hand in hand. This fan can effectively boost and maintain cool air in an area but the materials used are not guaranteed durable. Its portability must be complemented by a sturdy mounting clip
Conclusion :
We sometimes encounter products that we never thought we need until we purchase them. It is easy to believe that portable air conditioners and cooling fans are good examples of those products. These equipment offer auxiliary cooling with that will either support your current air conditioning system during the hot months. It can also make you skip using your AC during the cold months because its cooling power is sufficient.
It also makes traveling and going out of town more enjoyable with the perks these air coolers can offer. Set it up in your boat, plane, camper vans and trucks in minutes. Place it in your pet’s cage and they’ll surely love it. Now that you’ve seen the best portable air conditioners and cooling fans, which one have you become a fan of?