{"id":1954,"date":"2026-07-08T23:00:41","date_gmt":"2026-07-08T18:00:41","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/usnews-14267fa.ingress-comporellon.ewp.live\/?p=1954"},"modified":"2026-07-08T23:00:41","modified_gmt":"2026-07-08T18:00:41","slug":"whats-the-better-air-conditioner-we-tested-both","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/usnews-14267fa.ingress-comporellon.ewp.live\/?p=1954","title":{"rendered":"What\u2019s the Better Air Conditioner? We Tested Both"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><script>\r\n  atOptions = {\r\n    'key' : '644b717812d811d6a1c1fc5b6ccd6fa6',\r\n    'format' : 'iframe',\r\n    'height' : 90,\r\n    'width' : 728,\r\n    'params' : {}\r\n  };\r\n<\/script>\r\n<script src=\"https:\/\/www.highperformanceformat.com\/644b717812d811d6a1c1fc5b6ccd6fa6\/invoke.js\"><\/script>\r\n<br \/>\n<\/p>\n<div>\n<p id=\"anchor-dfd347\" class=\"body-graf\">I prioritize two things when shopping for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/best-window-ac-air-conditioners-rcna331927?utm_source=google&amp;utm_medium=h5d&amp;utm_campaign=h_nw_00061&amp;gad_source=1&amp;gad_campaignid=23785729848&amp;gbraid=0AAAABDauZh7TWE4wgCwfwdGj3lwVeoXzQ&amp;gclid=CjwKCAjwmJjSBhB-EiwAkZgxiwjWr3ylXjdI8m_q-qx8gTH4KULKiuKv5jWqK0hoE7opahZfJD-rRxoC6n0QAvD_BwE\" target=\"_blank\">window AC units<\/a>: power and looks. I want something that effectively and efficiently cools off my space but isn\u2019t an eyesore, and while researching models that meet my criteria, two brands repeatedly popped up: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/stores\/page\/855CBC00-680D-4ABE-992D-E6F142E615AB?tag=mideavswindmillreviewrcna353472-20\" rel=\"sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" data-commerce-encoding=\"true\" data-seller-id=\"ncrg916911\" data-seller-affiliate-encoded-url=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/stores\/page\/855CBC00-680D-4ABE-992D-E6F142E615AB?tag=mideavswindmillreviewrcna353472-20\">Midea<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/ncls1.com\/irk?o=nthd73&amp;s=515050&amp;subid=nbcnews.com&amp;bkd=windmillair.com&amp;di=mideavswindmillreviewrcna353472&amp;d=https%3A%2F%2Fwindmillair.com\" rel=\"sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" data-commerce-encoding=\"true\" data-seller-id=\"ncrg1309275\" data-seller-affiliate-encoded-url=\"https:\/\/go.redirectingat.com\/?xs=1&amp;id=96128X1608993&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwindmillair.com&amp;sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nbcnews.com%2Fselect%2Fshopping%2Fmideavswindmillreviewrcna353472\">Windmill<\/a>. At first glance, the window units look pretty similar, and both are marketed as efficient, quiet, easy to install and straightforward to operate. Deciding between the two was difficult, even when I evaluated the slight price difference.<\/p>\n<p id=\"anchor-93ebdc\" class=\"body-graf\">To settle the AC debate, two NBC Select staff members (myself included) tested <a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B0FDQGPCG7?tag=mideavswindmillreviewrcna353472-20\" rel=\"sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" data-commerce-encoding=\"true\" data-seller-id=\"ncrg916911\" data-seller-affiliate-encoded-url=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B0FDQGPCG7?tag=mideavswindmillreviewrcna353472-20\">Midea\u2019s U-Shaped Smart Window Air Conditioner<\/a>, and two tested <a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B0C4WFLF75?tag=mideavswindmillreviewrcna353472-20\" rel=\"sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" data-commerce-encoding=\"true\" data-seller-id=\"ncrg916911\" data-seller-affiliate-encoded-url=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B0C4WFLF75?tag=mideavswindmillreviewrcna353472-20\">Windmill\u2019s WhisperTech Air Conditioner<\/a>, including during a record-breaking heat wave in New York City. Below, I compare the two brands and share what I think you should know based on our testers\u2019 first-hand experiences.<\/p>\n<p id=\"anchor-918e0d\" class=\"body-graf\"><em><strong>Want more from NBC Select? <\/strong><\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/link.nbcnews.com\/join\/5cj\/nbc-news-select-signup-pd\" target=\"_blank\"><em><strong>Sign up<\/strong><\/em><\/a><em><strong> for our newsletter, The Selection, and shop smarter.<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/midea-vs-windmill-air-conditioner-review-rcna353472#anchor-9e8acb\" id=\"anchor-9e8acb\" class=\"scrollLink\"><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"body-heading\">Midea vs. Windmill air conditioners: what to know<\/h2>\n<p><\/a><\/p>\n<p id=\"anchor-74d581\" class=\"body-graf\">Before comparing the ACs, here are some key terms to know:<\/p>\n<ul id=\"anchor-bcabe5\" class=\"break-above body-ul body-list-el\">\n<li><strong>BTUs<\/strong>: An air conditioner\u2019s cooling capacity is measured in BTUs, which stands for British Thermal Units. The higher the BTUs, the larger the space the AC can cool. (Learn more about BTUs in our guide to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/affordable-portable-air-conditioners-ncna1266638\" target=\"_blank\">portable air conditioners<\/a>.)<\/li>\n<li><strong>Decibels<\/strong>: Sound levels are measured in decibels. Both a normal in-person conversation and the typical air conditioning unit clock in at around 60 decibels, according to the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncoa.org\/adviser\/hearing-aids\/decibel-levels\/\" target=\"_blank\">National Council on Aging<\/a>.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Inverter<\/strong>: Inverter ACs have a variable-speed compressor, which allows them to continuously adjust their motor speed to maintain your desired temperature, making them quieter and more energy efficient. In contrast, non-inverter ACs have fixed-speed compressors, so they constantly turn on and completely shut off, which uses a lot of energy and can be quite loud. Both window ACs we tested are inverters.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div id=\"anchor-0ed019\">\n<div id=\"rcpd72114\" class=\"styles_product__lnrKX\" data-testid=\"article-product-unit\">\n<div class=\"listicleProduct dn-print  product__grid-container--small\" data-activity-map=\"listicle-product-article-body-midea-u-8,000-btu-u-shaped-inverter-window-air-\" data-testid=\"product-container\">\n<div class=\"product__grid-row\">\n<div class=\"product__border\">\n<div class=\"df flex-column items-stretch product__card-container flex-row-m\">\n<div class=\"product__pictureLink product__picture-link db-m dn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Midea-Shaped-Inverter-Window-Conditioner\/dp\/B0FDQGPCG7?tag=mideavswindmillreviewrcna353472-20\" data-product-id=\"rcpd72114\" data-aps-asc-tag=\"mideavswindmillreviewrcna353472-20\" data-aps-asin=\"B0FDQGPCG7\" rel=\"sponsored noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\" data-testid=\"product-picture-link\" class=\"w-100\"><picture class=\"\" data-testid=\"picture\" data-flavor=\"fit\" data-original-height=\"1000\" data-original-width=\"1000\"><source media=\"(min-width: 1240px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-260w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2026-07\/GUEST11485cc9-7ed9-4a2b-9e68-b58d6009a116-1929a3.webp 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-260w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2026-07\/GUEST11485cc9-7ed9-4a2b-9e68-b58d6009a116-1929a3.webp 1x\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 1000px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-260w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2026-07\/GUEST11485cc9-7ed9-4a2b-9e68-b58d6009a116-1929a3.webp 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-260w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2026-07\/GUEST11485cc9-7ed9-4a2b-9e68-b58d6009a116-1929a3.webp 1x\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 758px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-360w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2026-07\/GUEST11485cc9-7ed9-4a2b-9e68-b58d6009a116-1929a3.webp 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-360w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2026-07\/GUEST11485cc9-7ed9-4a2b-9e68-b58d6009a116-1929a3.webp 1x\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 320px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-320w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2026-07\/GUEST11485cc9-7ed9-4a2b-9e68-b58d6009a116-1929a3.webp 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2026-07\/GUEST11485cc9-7ed9-4a2b-9e68-b58d6009a116-1929a3.webp 1x\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2026-07\/GUEST11485cc9-7ed9-4a2b-9e68-b58d6009a116-1929a3.webp\" alt=\"Midea U 8,000 BTU U-shaped Inverter Window Air \" height=\"1000\" width=\"1000\"\/><\/picture><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"styles_accordion__Z2nEy styles_accordion__Z_3zC undefined styles_closed__PAn2s\" data-testid=\"accordion\" data-title=\"What to know\">\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" aria-labelledby=\"accordion-button\" class=\"styles_accordion__content__09JIS styles_accordion__content__NO3i2 styles_closed__PAn2s\" data-testid=\"accordion__content\" role=\"region\" tabindex=\"-1\">\n<p><strong>Cooling power:<\/strong> <span><em>8,000 BTUs<\/em><\/span>\u00a0| <strong>CEER:<\/strong> <span><em>15<\/em><\/span>\u00a0| <strong>Room size:<\/strong> <span><em>to 350 sq. ft.<\/em><\/span>\u00a0| <strong>Energy Star:<\/strong> <span><em>yes<\/em><\/span>\u00a0| <strong>Controls:<\/strong> <span><em>on-unit, remote, mobile app<\/em><\/span>\u00a0| <strong>Advertised noise level:<\/strong> <span><em>32dB <\/em><\/span>\u00a0| <strong>Weight:<\/strong> <span><em>55 lbs.<\/em><\/span>\u00a0| <strong>Dimensions:<\/strong> <span><em>22 D x 19.2 W x 13.5 H in.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"anchor-5b535d\" class=\"body-graf\">To install a window AC, you typically center the unit in your window\u2019s opening, pull the window down to the top of it and fill in the gaps between your AC and window frame with panels made from vinyl or plexiglass. This Midea air conditioner, however, is uniquely designed due to its U-shape. There\u2019s a notch between the front and back pieces, which you slide your window down into all the way, minimizing gaps on the sides and eliminating the need for extra panels.<\/p>\n<p id=\"anchor-eda3a2\" class=\"body-graf\">The Midea AC\u2019s U-shape offers numerous benefits, including letting you open your window while the appliance is installed \u2014 it isn\u2019t dependent on the window to keep it in place, unlike most other models. It also allows for more natural light to enter your space, and it forms a tighter seal around the window, which helps keep cool air inside and block outside noise.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"styles_inlineImage__FvnTh styles_medium__MEKii\" id=\"anchor-e88a79\"><picture class=\"styles_image__i32F7\" data-testid=\"picture\" data-flavor=\"fit\" data-original-height=\"1200\" data-original-width=\"1200\"><source media=\"(min-width: 1000px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-560w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2026-07\/midea-u-380830.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-560w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2026-07\/midea-u-380830.jpg 1x\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 320px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-760w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2026-07\/midea-u-380830.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-760w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2026-07\/midea-u-380830.jpg 1x\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-760w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2026-07\/midea-u-380830.jpg\" alt=\"A Midea U-Shaped Smart Window Air Conditioner installed.\" height=\"1200\" width=\"1200\"\/><\/picture><figcaption class=\"caption styles_caption__TCewG\" data-testid=\"caption\"><span class=\"caption__container\" data-testid=\"caption__container\">Unlike most window air conditioners, this one\u2019s U-shape lets you pull your window down all the way, so you don\u2019t need to fill big gaps on either side with extra panels.<\/span><span class=\"caption__source\" data-testid=\"caption__source\">Courtesy Harry Rabinowitz<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p id=\"anchor-1b0f4a\" class=\"body-graf\">Midea\u2019s U-shaped AC has three fan speeds \u2014 low, medium and high, plus auto \u2014 and four modes: auto, cool, dry and fan. Dry mode helps reduce the humidity of the air in your room, similar to a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/best-dehumidifier-ncna1233988\" target=\"_blank\">dehumidifier<\/a>. The AC also has three programs: eco, sleep and timer. There\u2019s a swing button you can press to control airflow direction, too.<\/p>\n<p id=\"anchor-da44a6\" class=\"body-graf\">Since this AC is Wi-Fi enabled, you can adjust its settings via its control panel, the included remote, the SmartHome app on your phone, certain smartwatches and voice assistants like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. You get a washable, reusable filter with your AC, which you can access by popping off the front panel. It also comes with mounting hardware like a bracket, extension arms, screws and foam.<\/p>\n<p id=\"anchor-305390\" class=\"body-graf\"><em><strong>Editor\u2019s note<\/strong><\/em><em>: The Midea U was <\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/midea-air-conditioner-recall-rcna211324\" target=\"_blank\"><em>recalled in June 2025<\/em><\/a><em>, but the problem has since been fixed in all models manufactured afterward and the brand offered impacted customers repairs or refunds. You\u2019ll likely see \u201cupdated\u201d on product pages when shopping for this AC, denoting that it\u2019s a model made post-recall without issues.<\/em><\/p>\n<p id=\"anchor-3bf7ec\" class=\"body-graf\"><strong>What we like<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul id=\"anchor-3a6dba\" class=\"break-above body-ul body-list-el\">\n<li>Can open window w\/ AC<\/li>\n<li>Dehumidifier mode<\/li>\n<li>All units are inverters<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p id=\"anchor-e3f6d2\" class=\"body-graf\"><strong>Something to note<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul id=\"anchor-93edec\" class=\"break-above body-ul body-list-el\">\n<li>Limited window compatibility<\/li>\n<li>No auto-dimming panel<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p id=\"anchor-e9a770\" class=\"body-graf\"><strong>Sizes<\/strong>: <em>8K BTU (up to ~350 sq. ft.), 10K BTU (up to ~450 sq. ft.), 12K BTU (up to ~550 sq. ft.)<\/em> | <strong>Sound<\/strong>: <em>42 dB.<\/em> | <strong>Inverter<\/strong>: <em>yes, all models<\/em> | <strong>Warranty<\/strong>: <em>1 year<\/em> | <strong>Window compatibility<\/strong>: <em>single- and double-hung windows <\/em>| <strong>Window size<\/strong>: <em>the window\u2019s opening must be between 22 to 36 in. wide and at least 13.75 in. tall<\/em><\/p>\n<div id=\"anchor-92509c\">\n<div id=\"rcpd76256\" class=\"styles_product__lnrKX\" data-testid=\"article-product-unit\">\n<div class=\"listicleProduct dn-print  product__grid-container--small\" data-activity-map=\"listicle-product-article-body-windmill-8,000-btu-inverter-window-air-conditioner\" data-testid=\"product-container\">\n<div class=\"product__grid-row\">\n<div class=\"product__border\">\n<div class=\"df flex-column items-stretch product__card-container flex-row-m\">\n<div class=\"product__pictureLink product__picture-link db-m dn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B0C4WFLF75?tag=mideavswindmillreviewrcna353472-20\" data-product-id=\"rcpd76256\" data-aps-asc-tag=\"mideavswindmillreviewrcna353472-20\" data-aps-asin=\"B0C4WFLF75\" rel=\"sponsored noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\" data-testid=\"product-picture-link\" class=\"w-100\"><picture class=\"\" data-testid=\"picture\" data-flavor=\"fit\" data-original-height=\"500\" data-original-width=\"400\"><source media=\"(min-width: 1240px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-260w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2026-07\/AMAZON-Windmill-Window-Air-Conditioner---Quiet--Smart-Easy-Install-Voice-Enabled-Remote--App-Control-AC-Unit---8000-BTU-Inverter-wWhisperTech-959d91.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-260w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2026-07\/AMAZON-Windmill-Window-Air-Conditioner---Quiet--Smart-Easy-Install-Voice-Enabled-Remote--App-Control-AC-Unit---8000-BTU-Inverter-wWhisperTech-959d91.jpg 1x\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 1000px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-260w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2026-07\/AMAZON-Windmill-Window-Air-Conditioner---Quiet--Smart-Easy-Install-Voice-Enabled-Remote--App-Control-AC-Unit---8000-BTU-Inverter-wWhisperTech-959d91.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-260w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2026-07\/AMAZON-Windmill-Window-Air-Conditioner---Quiet--Smart-Easy-Install-Voice-Enabled-Remote--App-Control-AC-Unit---8000-BTU-Inverter-wWhisperTech-959d91.jpg 1x\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 758px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-360w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2026-07\/AMAZON-Windmill-Window-Air-Conditioner---Quiet--Smart-Easy-Install-Voice-Enabled-Remote--App-Control-AC-Unit---8000-BTU-Inverter-wWhisperTech-959d91.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-360w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2026-07\/AMAZON-Windmill-Window-Air-Conditioner---Quiet--Smart-Easy-Install-Voice-Enabled-Remote--App-Control-AC-Unit---8000-BTU-Inverter-wWhisperTech-959d91.jpg 1x\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 320px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-320w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2026-07\/AMAZON-Windmill-Window-Air-Conditioner---Quiet--Smart-Easy-Install-Voice-Enabled-Remote--App-Control-AC-Unit---8000-BTU-Inverter-wWhisperTech-959d91.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2026-07\/AMAZON-Windmill-Window-Air-Conditioner---Quiet--Smart-Easy-Install-Voice-Enabled-Remote--App-Control-AC-Unit---8000-BTU-Inverter-wWhisperTech-959d91.jpg 1x\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2026-07\/AMAZON-Windmill-Window-Air-Conditioner---Quiet--Smart-Easy-Install-Voice-Enabled-Remote--App-Control-AC-Unit---8000-BTU-Inverter-wWhisperTech-959d91.jpg\" alt=\"Windmill 8,000 BTU Inverter Window Air Conditioner\" height=\"500\" width=\"400\"\/><\/picture><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"anchor-305880\" class=\"body-graf\">Windmill is a standard window AC (no fancy shape or installation process), and there\u2019s two types: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Windmill-Conditioner-Smart-Home-Unit\/dp\/B09TM28Q98?tag=mideavswindmillreviewrcna353472-20\" rel=\"sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" data-commerce-encoding=\"true\" data-seller-id=\"ncrg916911\" data-seller-affiliate-encoded-url=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Windmill-Conditioner-Smart-Home-Unit\/dp\/B09TM28Q98?tag=mideavswindmillreviewrcna353472-20\">original<\/a> (starting at $339) and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Windmill-Conditioner-Smart-Home-Unit\/dp\/B0C4WFLF75?tag=mideavswindmillreviewrcna353472-20\" rel=\"sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" data-commerce-encoding=\"true\" data-seller-id=\"ncrg916911\" data-seller-affiliate-encoded-url=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Windmill-Conditioner-Smart-Home-Unit\/dp\/B0C4WFLF75?tag=mideavswindmillreviewrcna353472-20\">WhisperTech<\/a> (starting at $449). The WhisperTech models are inverter ACs, while the original ones are not.<\/p>\n<p id=\"anchor-1d60de\" class=\"body-graf\">Both Windmill ACs have three fan speeds \u2014 low, medium and high, plus auto \u2014 and three modes: cool, eco and fan. It comes with a washable, <a href=\"https:\/\/ncls1.com\/irk?o=nthd73&amp;s=515050&amp;subid=nbcnews.com&amp;bkd=windmillair.com&amp;di=mideavswindmillreviewrcna353472&amp;d=https%3A%2F%2Fwindmillair.com%2Fproducts%2Freusable-mesh-filter%3FSize%3D8K%2BBTU%2BOriginal\" rel=\"sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" data-commerce-encoding=\"true\" data-seller-id=\"ncrg1309275\" data-seller-affiliate-encoded-url=\"https:\/\/go.redirectingat.com\/?xs=1&amp;id=96128X1608993&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwindmillair.com%2Fproducts%2Freusable-mesh-filter%3FSize%3D8K%2BBTU%2BOriginal&amp;sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nbcnews.com%2Fselect%2Fshopping%2Fmideavswindmillreviewrcna353472\">reusable mesh filter<\/a>, but you can also add on a <a href=\"https:\/\/ncls1.com\/irk?o=nthd73&amp;s=515050&amp;subid=nbcnews.com&amp;bkd=windmillair.com&amp;di=mideavswindmillreviewrcna353472&amp;d=https%3A%2F%2Fwindmillair.com%2Fproducts%2Factivated-carbon-filters%3FSize%3D6K%2BBTU%2BOriginal%26Refill%2BPlan%3DOne%2Btime%2B%25284%2Bfilters%2529\" rel=\"sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" data-commerce-encoding=\"true\" data-seller-id=\"ncrg1309275\" data-seller-affiliate-encoded-url=\"https:\/\/go.redirectingat.com\/?xs=1&amp;id=96128X1608993&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwindmillair.com%2Fproducts%2Factivated-carbon-filters%3FSize%3D6K%2BBTU%2BOriginal%26Refill%2BPlan%3DOne%2Btime%2B%25284%2Bfilters%2529&amp;sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nbcnews.com%2Fselect%2Fshopping%2Fmideavswindmillreviewrcna353472\">purifying activated carbon filter<\/a> (sold separately). Windmill air conditioners have a magnetic, removable front panel, so you can swap in <a href=\"https:\/\/ncls1.com\/irk?o=nthd73&amp;s=515050&amp;subid=nbcnews.com&amp;bkd=windmillair.com&amp;di=mideavswindmillreviewrcna353472&amp;d=https%3A%2F%2Fwindmillair.com%2Fproducts%2Ffront-panel%3FSize%3D8K%2BBTU%2BOriginal%26Color%3DDusk\" rel=\"sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" data-commerce-encoding=\"true\" data-seller-id=\"ncrg1309275\" data-seller-affiliate-encoded-url=\"https:\/\/go.redirectingat.com\/?xs=1&amp;id=96128X1608993&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwindmillair.com%2Fproducts%2Ffront-panel%3FSize%3D8K%2BBTU%2BOriginal%26Color%3DDusk&amp;sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nbcnews.com%2Fselect%2Fshopping%2Fmideavswindmillreviewrcna353472\">decorative options<\/a> (sold separately).<\/p>\n<figure class=\"styles_inlineImage__FvnTh styles_medium__MEKii\" id=\"anchor-29cd41\"><picture class=\"styles_image__i32F7\" data-testid=\"picture\" data-flavor=\"fit\" data-original-height=\"1200\" data-original-width=\"1200\"><source media=\"(min-width: 1000px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-560w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2024-08\/240809-july-v-windmill-oo-inline-1-823ddf.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-560w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2024-08\/240809-july-v-windmill-oo-inline-1-823ddf.jpg 1x\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 320px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-760w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2024-08\/240809-july-v-windmill-oo-inline-1-823ddf.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-760w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2024-08\/240809-july-v-windmill-oo-inline-1-823ddf.jpg 1x\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-760w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2024-08\/240809-july-v-windmill-oo-inline-1-823ddf.jpg\" alt=\"Windmill\u2019s 8K BTU WhisperTech window AC installed.\" height=\"1200\" width=\"1200\"\/><\/picture><figcaption class=\"caption styles_caption__TCewG\" data-testid=\"caption\"><span class=\"caption__container\" data-testid=\"caption__container\">NBC Select senior editor Nikki Brown installed Windmill\u2019s 8K BTU WhisperTech window AC in her living room, which is powerful enough to cool down her entire apartment.<\/span><span class=\"caption__source\" data-testid=\"caption__source\">Courtesy Nikki Brown, NBC Select Editor<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p id=\"anchor-e1f054\" class=\"body-graf\">This air conditioner is Wi-Fi enabled, so you can adjust its settings via its control panel, the included remote, the Windmill app or Amazon Alexa voice commands. All models come with a pre-assembled installation kit, which includes double-insulating side panels. If you don\u2019t want to install the air conditioner yourself, you can schedule installation service via <a href=\"https:\/\/ncls1.com\/irk?o=nthd73&amp;s=515050&amp;subid=nbcnews.com&amp;bkd=windmillair.com&amp;di=mideavswindmillreviewrcna353472&amp;d=https%3A%2F%2Fwindmillair.com%2Fpages%2Ftaskrabbit\" rel=\"sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" data-commerce-encoding=\"true\" data-seller-id=\"ncrg1309275\" data-seller-affiliate-encoded-url=\"https:\/\/go.redirectingat.com\/?xs=1&amp;id=96128X1608993&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwindmillair.com%2Fpages%2Ftaskrabbit&amp;sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nbcnews.com%2Fselect%2Fshopping%2Fmideavswindmillreviewrcna353472\">Taskrabbit<\/a> through Windmill\u2019s website.<\/p>\n<p id=\"anchor-1cb700\" class=\"body-graf\"><strong>What we like<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul id=\"anchor-7b55e4\" class=\"break-above body-ul body-list-el\">\n<li>Many size and model options<\/li>\n<li>Auto-dimming panel<\/li>\n<li>Interchangeable front panel  <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p id=\"anchor-7d5091\" class=\"body-graf\"><strong>Something to note<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul id=\"anchor-03c21d\" class=\"break-above body-ul body-list-el\">\n<li>Limited window compatibility<\/li>\n<li>Only WhisperTech are inverters<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p id=\"anchor-f4d075\" class=\"body-graf\"><strong>Sizes<\/strong>: <em>6K BTU Original (up to ~250 sq. ft.), 8K BTU Original (up to ~350 sq. ft.), 8K BTU WhisperTech (~250 to 350 sq. ft.), 10K BTU WhisperTech (~350 to 450 sq. ft.), 12K BTU WhisperTech (~450 to 550 sq. ft.)<\/em> | <strong>Sound<\/strong>: <em>49 dB. (original models), 42 dB. (WhisperTech models)<\/em> | <strong>Inverter<\/strong>: <em>no, original models. yes, WhisperTech models<\/em> | <strong>Warranty<\/strong>: <em>1 year<\/em> | <strong>Window compatibility<\/strong>: <em>single- and double-hung windows <\/em>| <strong>Window size<\/strong>: <em>For 6K BTU ACs, the window\u2019s opening must be between 22 and 36 in. wide and 14 in. tall. For 8K, 10K and 12K BTU ACs, the window\u2019s opening must be between 23 and 37 in. wide and at least 14 in. tall.<\/em><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/midea-vs-windmill-air-conditioner-review-rcna353472#anchor-b9d7a1\" id=\"anchor-b9d7a1\" class=\"scrollLink\"><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"body-heading\">What are the key differences between Midea and Windmill\u2019s window ACs?<\/h2>\n<p><\/a><\/p>\n<p id=\"anchor-99663f\" class=\"body-graf\">Midea and Windmill\u2019s ACs have many of the same features, like three fan speeds, being Wi-Fi enabled and offering voice control compatibility. Because of that, comparing the units\u2019 differences, which I outlined below, is helpful when deciding which one to buy.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"styles_inlineImage__FvnTh styles_medium__MEKii styles_portrait__NEQhG\" id=\"anchor-680384\"><picture class=\"styles_image__i32F7\" data-testid=\"picture\" data-flavor=\"fit\" data-original-height=\"1721\" data-original-width=\"1027\"><source media=\"(min-width: 1000px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-560w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2026-07\/midea-v-windmill-chart-27fead.png 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-560w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2026-07\/midea-v-windmill-chart-27fead.png 1x\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 320px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-760w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2026-07\/midea-v-windmill-chart-27fead.png 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-760w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2026-07\/midea-v-windmill-chart-27fead.png 1x\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-760w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2026-07\/midea-v-windmill-chart-27fead.png\" alt=\"A chart comparing Midea\u2019s U-Shaped Smart Window Air Conditioner and The Windmill AC WhisperTech.\" height=\"1721\" width=\"1027\"\/><\/picture><figcaption class=\"caption styles_caption__TCewG\" data-testid=\"caption\"><span class=\"caption__container\" data-testid=\"caption__container\">Midea and Windmill\u2019s window ACs are quite similar, but there are small differences that may make one more suitable for your home when you compare them using this chart.<\/span><span class=\"caption__source\" data-testid=\"caption__source\">NBC News<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/midea-vs-windmill-air-conditioner-review-rcna353472#anchor-438e9b\" id=\"anchor-438e9b\" class=\"scrollLink\"><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"body-heading\">How we tested Midea and Windmill\u2019s air conditioners<\/h2>\n<p><\/a><\/p>\n<p id=\"anchor-040706\" class=\"body-graf\">Three of my colleagues and I tested Midea and Windmill\u2019s ACs for at least a year in our New York City apartments. Throughout the trial period, NYC experienced multiple heat waves that consistently brought temperatures above 90 degrees Fahrenheit and caused humidity levels to spike. The scorching summer weather really put our ACs to the test, allowing us to evaluate cooling efficiency as well as overall look, user-friendliness, fan speeds, noise level and more.<\/p>\n<p id=\"anchor-01e500\" class=\"body-graf\">To make the fairest comparison possible, we only tested Windill\u2019s WhisperTech AC, which is an inverter AC unlike the original models, against Midea\u2019s U-Shaped AC, which is also an inverter AC. <\/p>\n<ul id=\"anchor-e3e5cc\" class=\"break-above body-ul body-list-el\">\n<li>I bought Midea\u2019s <a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Midea-Shaped-Inverter-Window-Conditioner\/dp\/B0G34PP2JW?tag=mideavswindmillreviewrcna353472-20\" rel=\"sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" data-commerce-encoding=\"true\" data-seller-id=\"ncrg916911\" data-seller-affiliate-encoded-url=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Midea-Shaped-Inverter-Window-Conditioner\/dp\/B0G34PP2JW?tag=mideavswindmillreviewrcna353472-20\">10K BTU U-Shaped Smart Window Air Conditioner<\/a>, which I put in my living room. Prior to Midea\u2019s AC, I used a 8K BTU LG model for three years.<\/li>\n<li>NBC Select reporter <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/author\/harry-rabinowitz-ncpn1291108\" target=\"_blank\">Harry Rabinowitz<\/a> bought two of Midea\u2019s U-Shaped Smart Window Air Conditioners: a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Midea-Shaped-Inverter-Window-Conditioner\/dp\/B0G34PP2JW?tag=mideavswindmillreviewrcna353472-20\" rel=\"sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" data-commerce-encoding=\"true\" data-seller-id=\"ncrg916911\" data-seller-affiliate-encoded-url=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Midea-Shaped-Inverter-Window-Conditioner\/dp\/B0G34PP2JW?tag=mideavswindmillreviewrcna353472-20\">10K BTU model<\/a>, which he put in his bedroom, and a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Midea-Shaped-Inverter-Window-Conditioner\/dp\/B0G34JL2ZS?tag=mideavswindmillreviewrcna353472-20\" rel=\"sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" data-commerce-encoding=\"true\" data-seller-id=\"ncrg916911\" data-seller-affiliate-encoded-url=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Midea-Shaped-Inverter-Window-Conditioner\/dp\/B0G34JL2ZS?tag=mideavswindmillreviewrcna353472-20\">12K BTU model<\/a>, which he put in his living room. Prior to Midea\u2019s AC, he used a 12K BTU Frigidaire unit in his living room for about two years, and another unit in his bedroom he describes as \u201ccheap and loud,\u201d but doesn\u2019t remember the name of.<\/li>\n<li>Windmill sent NBC Select senior editor <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/author\/nikki-brown-ncpn1307949\" target=\"_blank\">Nikki Brown<\/a> its <a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Windmill-Conditioner-Smart-Home-Unit\/dp\/B0C4WFLF75?tag=mideavswindmillreviewrcna353472-20\" rel=\"sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" data-commerce-encoding=\"true\" data-seller-id=\"ncrg916911\" data-seller-affiliate-encoded-url=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Windmill-Conditioner-Smart-Home-Unit\/dp\/B0C4WFLF75?tag=mideavswindmillreviewrcna353472-20\">8K BTU WhisperTech AC<\/a>, which she put in her living room. Prior to Windmill\u2019s AC, she used a 6K Frigidaire unit for about five years.<\/li>\n<li>Former NBC Select associate reporter <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/author\/bianca-alvarez-ncpn1306070\" target=\"_blank\">Bianca Alvarez<\/a> bought <a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Windmill-Conditioner-Smart-Home-Unit\/dp\/B0C4WJYXQJ?tag=mideavswindmillreviewrcna353472-20\" rel=\"sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" data-commerce-encoding=\"true\" data-seller-id=\"ncrg916911\" data-seller-affiliate-encoded-url=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Windmill-Conditioner-Smart-Home-Unit\/dp\/B0C4WJYXQJ?tag=mideavswindmillreviewrcna353472-20\">Windmill\u2019s 10K WhisperTech AC<\/a>, which she put in her living room. She\u2019s never owned a window AC prior to Windmill\u2019s and previously relied on a Dyson tower fan to cool off her bedroom.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/midea-vs-windmill-air-conditioner-review-rcna353472#anchor-e4d6c2\" id=\"anchor-e4d6c2\" class=\"scrollLink\"><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"body-heading\">Were the window AC units easy to install?<\/h2>\n<p><\/a><a href=\"http:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/midea-vs-windmill-air-conditioner-review-rcna353472#anchor-f87e22\" id=\"anchor-f87e22\" class=\"scrollLink\"><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"body-heading\">Midea<\/h3>\n<p><\/a><\/p>\n<p id=\"anchor-f34fb4\" class=\"body-graf\">I\u2019ve never installed a window air conditioner before, but I was tempted to try it after I saw the detailed directions my unit came with and the numerous instruction videos Midea provides online. Ultimately, however, I decided to call a handyman for help. My lack of experience made attempting self-installation seem too risky: I live on the tenth floor of my building and have two cats, so I was also worried about keeping my window open for an extended period of time. The handyman securely installed my Midea AC in less than 15 minutes, and he said the box had all the materials he needed. A handyman also helped Rabinowitz install both of his Midea units.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/midea-vs-windmill-air-conditioner-review-rcna353472#anchor-e955ef\" id=\"anchor-e955ef\" class=\"scrollLink\"><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"body-heading\">Windmill<\/h3>\n<p><\/a><\/p>\n<p id=\"anchor-06e9b6\" class=\"body-graf\">\u201cI\u2019ve lived in NYC for over 12 years and I\u2019ve always installed my own AC units \u2014 in my experience, it\u2019s very much part of the culture of living here,\u201d says Brown. \u201cHowever, once I saw how big this one was, I knew I would need a helping hand.\u201d Her friend assisted her with installation, which she says was easy thanks to the beginner-friendly directions in Windmill\u2019s included instruction booklet. The process took about an hour, and it required a lot of steps and some heavy lifting.<\/p>\n<p id=\"anchor-80e2cb\" class=\"body-graf\">While installing Windmill\u2019s AC, Brown had to cut the included side panels in order to fit her window. The panels have number guides written on them to help you measure, but Brown spent some time fiddling with them to get a perfect fit. \u201cOne of the panels also fell off after a couple of weeks and I had to put it back on, which is not a deal breaker, just annoying,\u201d she says.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"styles_inlineImage__FvnTh styles_medium__MEKii\" id=\"anchor-af465c\"><picture class=\"styles_image__i32F7\" data-testid=\"picture\" data-flavor=\"fit\" data-original-height=\"1200\" data-original-width=\"1200\"><source media=\"(min-width: 1000px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-560w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2024-08\/240809-july-v-windmill-oo-inline-3-a37965.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-560w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2024-08\/240809-july-v-windmill-oo-inline-3-a37965.jpg 1x\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 320px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-760w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2024-08\/240809-july-v-windmill-oo-inline-3-a37965.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-760w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2024-08\/240809-july-v-windmill-oo-inline-3-a37965.jpg 1x\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-760w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2024-08\/240809-july-v-windmill-oo-inline-3-a37965.jpg\" alt=\"A hand holding a knife while cutting Windmill\u2019s window air conditioner panels.\" height=\"1200\" width=\"1200\"\/><\/picture><figcaption class=\"caption styles_caption__TCewG\" data-testid=\"caption\"><span class=\"caption__container\" data-testid=\"caption__container\">Brown installed Windmill\u2019s AC herself, which involved cutting the included side panels to perfectly fit her window.<\/span><span class=\"caption__source\" data-testid=\"caption__source\">Courtesy Nikki Brown, NBC Select Editor<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p id=\"anchor-eb7337\" class=\"body-graf\">Alvarez, on the other hand, hired a handyman to install her Windmill AC and didn\u2019t run into any issues with the side panels. She was initially going to install it herself, but was worried about doing so safely since she\u2019s inexperienced like me. \u201cAfter watching the handyman install it, I came to the conclusion that setup was easy, so I probably could have done it myself,\u201d she says. \u201cBut I still recommend getting someone to help with it for that safety factor.\u201d Her panels didn\u2019t fall off, and she hasn\u2019t had any other issues.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/midea-vs-windmill-air-conditioner-review-rcna353472#anchor-3671fe\" id=\"anchor-3671fe\" class=\"scrollLink\"><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"body-heading\">Do the window ACs effectively cool spaces?<\/h2>\n<p><\/a><a href=\"http:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/midea-vs-windmill-air-conditioner-review-rcna353472#anchor-61835d\" id=\"anchor-61835d\" class=\"scrollLink\"><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"body-heading\">Midea<\/h3>\n<p><\/a><\/p>\n<p id=\"anchor-30022f\" class=\"body-graf\">For the first three years that I lived in my apartment, my old air conditioner cooled my space down enough to keep me comfortable in the spring and fall. But during the summer, once it was humid every day and temperatures consistently hit about 80 degrees Fahrenheit, I felt like I was living in an oven. Even at its highest fan speed, my AC wasn\u2019t powerful enough to prevent my apartment from becoming hot and sticky. Then, during New York City\u2019s first heat wave of 2025, the unit totally broke down, which motivated me to finally invest in Midea\u2019s higher quality and more powerful, albeit more expensive, model. It was worth every penny and I regret not buying it sooner.<\/p>\n<p id=\"anchor-0c7ca1\" class=\"body-graf\">From the moment I turned the Midea U on, I could feel how much colder the air blowing out of it was compared to my old AC. It\u2019s so powerful that it cools down my entire main living space, not just my living room \u2014 I feel a cold rush of air as soon as I walk in my front door, which the AC is quite far away from. I always keep it on the auto fan speed, auto mode and eco program so its settings automatically adjust as needed. Even when I need to cool my living room off a little bit more than usual, like during a heat wave, I turn the fan speed up to medium and let it run for about 30 minutes \u2014 any longer than that and my space gets too cold.<\/p>\n<p id=\"anchor-edb65d\" class=\"body-graf\">Rabinowitz says his Midea units successfully cool off his bedroom and living room. That\u2019s especially impressive considering his apartment has high ceilings throughout and he lives on the top floor of his building, which is also the hottest.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/midea-vs-windmill-air-conditioner-review-rcna353472#anchor-2ab69a\" id=\"anchor-2ab69a\" class=\"scrollLink\"><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"body-heading\">Windmill<\/h3>\n<p><\/a><\/p>\n<p id=\"anchor-dc7ef0\" class=\"body-graf\">\u201cThis AC definitely cools off my space,\u201d says Alvarez. \u201cWhen I\u2019m in my apartment, I keep it on the low fan speed and find that it\u2019s enough to keep me cool.\u201d While her AC is in her living room, the air conditioner is powerful enough to also lower the temperature in the nearby bathroom and office areas if she leaves all the doors open.<\/p>\n<p id=\"anchor-358cfd\" class=\"body-graf\">Brown says she\u2019s impressed by the cooling power of her Windmill AC and finds it more effective compared to other models she\u2019s used over the years. \u201cWhen I keep it on the high fan speed, it cools down my entire apartment,\u201d she says. \u201cI actually haven\u2019t even put an AC in my bedroom because having the Windmill in the living room suffices. Plus, I have a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/lower-air-conditioning-bill-rcna166212\" target=\"_blank\">lower energy bill<\/a>.\u201d<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/midea-vs-windmill-air-conditioner-review-rcna353472#anchor-52b5aa\" id=\"anchor-52b5aa\" class=\"scrollLink\"><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"body-heading\">Are these window ACs quiet?<\/h2>\n<p><\/a><a href=\"http:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/midea-vs-windmill-air-conditioner-review-rcna353472#anchor-18ccf8\" id=\"anchor-18ccf8\" class=\"scrollLink\"><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"body-heading\">Midea<\/h3>\n<p><\/a><\/p>\n<p id=\"anchor-9e5965\" class=\"body-graf\">The Midea U is significantly quieter compared to my old AC, which was so loud that I felt like I couldn\u2019t hear myself think. That said, the Midea unit isn\u2019t completely silent, but no AC I\u2019ve ever tried is. In my experience, you have to accept that hearing your window unit to some degree is par for the course. <\/p>\n<p id=\"anchor-593864\" class=\"body-graf\">I don\u2019t notice my AC much on the low fan speed. It\u2019s a tiny bit louder on the medium and high speeds, but the sound doesn\u2019t bother me \u2014 I don\u2019t think it would even if you\u2019re sensitive to noise. Rabinowitz agrees, adding that due to Midea\u2019s U-shape, more than half of the unit is outside, and that part happens to be the noisiest. You don\u2019t hear the appliance running or outside sounds much because your window pane slides down into the center of the unit, creating a tight seal around it as opposed to the huge gaps you have to fill in on either side of standard ACs.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/midea-vs-windmill-air-conditioner-review-rcna353472#anchor-1e61f5\" id=\"anchor-1e61f5\" class=\"scrollLink\"><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"body-heading\">Windmill<\/h3>\n<p><\/a><\/p>\n<p id=\"anchor-2c4882\" class=\"body-graf\">\u201cThis air conditioner is quiet on the low fan speed, but as I turn it up, I can definitely tell that there\u2019s a sound, although it\u2019s not bothersome,\u201d says Alvarez. \u201cI don\u2019t notice it while the TV is on, I have video and phone calls without worrying, and I even film TikToks and you can\u2019t hear anything in the background.\u201d Brown agrees, saying the sound of this AC isn\u2019t disruptive, but don\u2019t expect it to be totally silent.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/midea-vs-windmill-air-conditioner-review-rcna353472#anchor-84c327\" id=\"anchor-84c327\" class=\"scrollLink\"><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"body-heading\">How do the window ACs look?<\/h2>\n<p><\/a><a href=\"http:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/midea-vs-windmill-air-conditioner-review-rcna353472#anchor-c65adb\" id=\"anchor-c65adb\" class=\"scrollLink\"><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"body-heading\">Midea<\/h3>\n<p><\/a><\/p>\n<p id=\"anchor-ac28c2\" class=\"body-graf\">The Midea U is nicer looking than my and Rabinowitz\u2019s old units, but it\u2019s still distinctly an air conditioner. The LED screen and buttons are front and center when you\u2019re looking at it head-on, as are the vents along the top, which only get covered by a panel when you turn the appliance off. Overall, Midea\u2019s AC isn\u2019t a distracting eyesore by any means, and after living with it for months, it blended into our spaces.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"styles_inlineImage__FvnTh styles_medium__MEKii\" id=\"anchor-488fb6\"><picture class=\"styles_image__i32F7\" data-testid=\"picture\" data-flavor=\"fit\" data-original-height=\"1200\" data-original-width=\"1200\"><source media=\"(min-width: 1000px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-560w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2026-07\/midea-u-1-5ba1e7.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-560w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2026-07\/midea-u-1-5ba1e7.jpg 1x\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 320px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-760w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2026-07\/midea-u-1-5ba1e7.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-760w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2026-07\/midea-u-1-5ba1e7.jpg 1x\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-760w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2026-07\/midea-u-1-5ba1e7.jpg\" alt=\"A close-up image of the Midea U-Shaped Smart Window Air Conditioner\u2019s control panel and vents.\" height=\"1200\" width=\"1200\"\/><\/picture><figcaption class=\"caption styles_caption__TCewG\" data-testid=\"caption\"><span class=\"caption__container\" data-testid=\"caption__container\">The Midea U\u2019s control panel and vents are on the front of the unit, so you always see them in your living space, but overall, the AC isn\u2019t an eyesore.<\/span><span class=\"caption__source\" data-testid=\"caption__source\">Courtesy Zoe Malin<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p id=\"anchor-cbbbd6\" class=\"body-graf\">Because your window pane slides into the center of Midea\u2019s U-shaped AC, you don\u2019t need to fill in big gaps on either side with panels. This lets more natural light into your space, something Rabinowitz and I appreciate. We agree that we\u2019d rather have the additional light than a more discrete LED screen and buttons.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/midea-vs-windmill-air-conditioner-review-rcna353472#anchor-f57aed\" id=\"anchor-f57aed\" class=\"scrollLink\"><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"body-heading\">Windmill<\/h3>\n<p><\/a><\/p>\n<p id=\"anchor-ca5d1b\" class=\"body-graf\">\u201cInstalling the Windmill AC is a heavy lift, and the unit is also quite heavy, but her face card does not decline,\u201d says Brown. \u201cI love the little dots on the front panel as opposed to those big vents that other units have.\u201d The front panel is actually the only thing you see when you\u2019re looking at the unit head-on \u2014 the LED screen and buttons are built into the top and flush with it, so nothing sticks out. You can only see them if you\u2019re in front of the unit and looking at it from the top down.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"styles_inlineImage__FvnTh styles_medium__MEKii\" id=\"anchor-f12853\"><picture class=\"styles_image__i32F7\" data-testid=\"picture\" data-flavor=\"fit\" data-original-height=\"1200\" data-original-width=\"1200\"><source media=\"(min-width: 1000px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-560w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2026-07\/windmill-f79969.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-560w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2026-07\/windmill-f79969.jpg 1x\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 320px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-760w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2026-07\/windmill-f79969.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-760w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2026-07\/windmill-f79969.jpg 1x\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-760w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2026-07\/windmill-f79969.jpg\" alt=\"A close-up image of The Windmill WhisperTech AC\u2019s control panel, which is built into the top of the unit.\" height=\"1200\" width=\"1200\"\/><\/picture><figcaption class=\"caption styles_caption__TCewG\" data-testid=\"caption\"><span class=\"caption__container\" data-testid=\"caption__container\">Since Windmill built the control panel into the top of its AC, you can\u2019t see it when you\u2019re looking at the unit head on, helping it blend into your space.<\/span><span class=\"caption__source\" data-testid=\"caption__source\">Courtesy Nikki Brown<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p id=\"anchor-c18bf5\" class=\"body-graf\">For Alvarez, Windmill\u2019s sleek design is one of the biggest reasons she bought it instead of other brands\u2019 less pricey models. \u201cI put it in my living room because I would rather have this chic unit be the one people see versus the one in my bedroom,\u201d she says. You can purchase decorative front panels beyond the white one Windmill\u2019s unit comes with. Alvarez and Brown declined to do so, but appreciate having the option.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/midea-vs-windmill-air-conditioner-review-rcna353472#anchor-e51557\" id=\"anchor-e51557\" class=\"scrollLink\"><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"body-heading\">Features we find most useful<\/h2>\n<p><\/a><a href=\"http:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/midea-vs-windmill-air-conditioner-review-rcna353472#anchor-ecabb5\" id=\"anchor-ecabb5\" class=\"scrollLink\"><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"body-heading\">Midea<\/h3>\n<p><\/a><\/p>\n<p id=\"anchor-7a1cdb\" class=\"body-graf\">I\u2019ve never owned a smart AC before this one, and now I can\u2019t imagine going back. Being able to adjust the unit\u2019s settings from my phone and via Amazon Alexa voice commands is so convenient \u2014 if I\u2019m near the unit, I use the buttons on its control panel, but I\u2019m not tied to it. I have an <a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B09B8V1LZ3?tag=mideavswindmillreviewrcna353472-20\" rel=\"sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" data-commerce-encoding=\"true\" data-seller-id=\"ncrg916911\" data-seller-affiliate-encoded-url=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B09B8V1LZ3?tag=mideavswindmillreviewrcna353472-20\">Echo Dot<\/a> in my living room, so I often ask Alexa to adjust my AC\u2019s temperature by a degree or two, or I\u2019ll do it from my phone. Although it\u2019s nice to have a backup handy, I\u2019ve never used the included remote.<\/p>\n<p id=\"anchor-a53a9b\" class=\"body-graf\">Midea\u2019s app also lets me monitor and control my air conditioner when I\u2019m not home, so I can ensure my space is the ideal temperature before I return from being at work all day, for example. Overall, pairing my air conditioner with the app and my Amazon Alexa-enabled devices took less than five minutes, and it hasn\u2019t lost connection so far, making it easy to use regardless of how tech savvy you are.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/midea-vs-windmill-air-conditioner-review-rcna353472#anchor-d7ac41\" id=\"anchor-d7ac41\" class=\"scrollLink\"><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"body-heading\">Windmill<\/h3>\n<p><\/a><\/p>\n<p id=\"anchor-ef7332\" class=\"body-graf\">Windmill\u2019s AC has similar smart capabilities compared to Midea\u2019s, and they too won Brown and Alvarez over, but for different reasons.<\/p>\n<p id=\"anchor-4a6fb2\" class=\"body-graf\">\u201cI have a cat and one of my biggest worries is keeping him cool while I\u2019m traveling,\u201d says Brown. \u201cI went to France shortly after installing the Windmill and loved that I could constantly check in via the app to see the room temperature and adjust it as needed.\u201d Even when she\u2019s home, she doesn\u2019t use the included remote to control her AC since she\u2019s so accustomed to doing so from her phone.<\/p>\n<p id=\"anchor-fa5632\" class=\"body-graf\">For Alvarez, on the other hand, controlling Windmill\u2019s AC from her phone makes it so she never has to walk into a hot, steamy apartment after a long day away. \u201cI turn my air conditioner off when I\u2019m not home to save money, \u201d she says. \u201cWhen I\u2019m about to get home, I turn the AC on via my phone and run it on the medium or high fan speed to quickly lower the temperature. That way once I reach my apartment, my space is already at my desired temperature before I walk through the door.\u201d<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/midea-vs-windmill-air-conditioner-review-rcna353472#anchor-3a43fe\" id=\"anchor-3a43fe\" class=\"scrollLink\"><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"body-heading\">Can you easily clean the window ACs?<\/h2>\n<p><\/a><a href=\"http:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/midea-vs-windmill-air-conditioner-review-rcna353472#anchor-dddba0\" id=\"anchor-dddba0\" class=\"scrollLink\"><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"body-heading\">Midea<\/h3>\n<p><\/a><\/p>\n<p id=\"anchor-4e88fd\" class=\"body-graf\">Thanks to its design, Midea\u2019s AC stays cleaner compared to my old LG model, which had a lot of vents sticking out of it that collected dust. I also had to pull the filter out of the top of my old AC to clean it, a process that caused <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/best-dusters-ncna1305697\" target=\"_blank\">dust<\/a> to fly everywhere. The vents on Midea\u2019s AC are set further into the unit, and they get totally covered by a panel if you turn the AC off, causing them to get less dusty. To <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/how-to-clean-window-air-conditioner-rcna163835\" target=\"_blank\">clean the filter<\/a>, I simply take off the AC\u2019s front panel and slide the filter out, with minimal debris getting on my floor or in the air. Afterward, I slide the filter back in place and click the front panel on. Midea\u2019s AC has a clean filter light that goes off after 250 hours of use, reminding me to clean it, plus the app sends me cleaning notifications.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/midea-vs-windmill-air-conditioner-review-rcna353472#anchor-4cb00b\" id=\"anchor-4cb00b\" class=\"scrollLink\"><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"body-heading\">Windmill<\/h3>\n<p><\/a><\/p>\n<p id=\"anchor-e88798\" class=\"body-graf\">Brown says taking the front panel off her AC to clean the filter is a breeze. Windmill\u2019s unit has a clean filter indicator light on its control panel, which turns red every now and then, indicating that it\u2019s time for you to rinse the washable filter. Its app also sends you clean filter notifications. Alvarez finds these reminders very helpful and says she likely wouldn\u2019t remember to clean the AC\u2019s filter without them.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"styles_inlineImage__FvnTh styles_medium__MEKii\" id=\"anchor-2baf34\"><picture class=\"styles_image__i32F7\" data-testid=\"picture\" data-flavor=\"fit\" data-original-height=\"1200\" data-original-width=\"1200\"><source media=\"(min-width: 1000px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-560w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2026-07\/midea-u-2-cbba4e.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-560w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2026-07\/midea-u-2-cbba4e.jpg 1x\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 320px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-760w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2026-07\/midea-u-2-cbba4e.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-760w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2026-07\/midea-u-2-cbba4e.jpg 1x\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-760w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2026-07\/midea-u-2-cbba4e.jpg\" alt=\"Midea U-Shaped AC with the front panel removed to show the filter (top), Windmill WhisperTech AC with the front panel removed to show the filter (bottom)\" height=\"1200\" width=\"1200\"\/><\/picture><figcaption class=\"caption styles_caption__TCewG\" data-testid=\"caption\"><span class=\"caption__container\" data-testid=\"caption__container\">Midea (top) and Windmill (bottom) both have removable front panels, which you can easily remove to access the washable filter and clean it.<\/span><span class=\"caption__source\" data-testid=\"caption__source\">Courtesy Harry Rabinowitz; Courtesy Nikki Brown<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/midea-vs-windmill-air-conditioner-review-rcna353472#anchor-e92474\" id=\"anchor-e92474\" class=\"scrollLink\"><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"body-heading\">Midea vs. Windmill: the final verdict<\/h2>\n<p><\/a><\/p>\n<p id=\"anchor-dbba87\" class=\"body-graf\">After months of testing Midea and Windmill\u2019s air conditioners, we learned that the units really are as similar as they seem on the brands\u2019 websites. They\u2019re both good-looking ACs that effectively cool our homes, and the convenience that their smart capabilities offer is a gamechanger if you\u2019re accustomed to old-school window ACs. Brown, Alvarez, Rabinowitz and I would all buy our respective ACs if we ever needed another unit, and recommend them without hesitation.<\/p>\n<p id=\"anchor-df7a83\" class=\"body-graf\">That said, there are a few key differences that now stand out to us when evaluating Midea and Windmill\u2019s ACs that may help you decide which one to buy:<\/p>\n<ul id=\"anchor-bae88f\" class=\"break-above body-ul body-list-el\">\n<li><strong>Midea is slightly more customizable. <\/strong>It has a dry mode, which is essentially a built-in dehumidifier, and a swing button that you press to change airflow direction. Windmill doesn\u2019t have either of these features.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Windmill<\/strong> <strong>wins on looks<\/strong>. Even though Midea\u2019s U-shape lets more natural light into your space, Windmill better disguises itself since its control panel is built into the top. You can\u2019t see the buttons or LED screen at all, and its vents are deeply set into the unit, which hides them well.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Both brands\u2019 air conditioners are generally quiet<\/strong>, but don\u2019t expect them to be completely silent. According to their decibel ratings, they actually produce the exact same amount of noise while running. <\/li>\n<li>Don\u2019t be a hero \u2014 <strong>consider hiring a handyperson for installation<\/strong>. Despite both brands providing detailed installation instructions and all the components you\u2019ll need to set them up, the ACs are very large and heavy. Installing each of them is at least a two-person job in our experience, and we all felt it was worth it to hire a professional so we could avoid safety concerns.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/midea-vs-windmill-air-conditioner-review-rcna353472#anchor-86f477\" id=\"anchor-86f477\" class=\"scrollLink\"><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"body-heading\">Why trust NBC Select?<\/h2>\n<p><\/a><\/p>\n<p id=\"anchor-ce8250\" class=\"body-graf\">I\u2019m a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/author\/zoe-malin-ncpn1232165\" target=\"_blank\">reporter at NBC Select<\/a> who tests hundreds of products a year, including <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/amazon-comlife-neck-fan-review-rcna164318\" target=\"_blank\">neck fans<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/best-womens-running-shoes-tested-rcna255629\" target=\"_blank\">running sneakers<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/stakt-mat-review-rcna186098\" target=\"_blank\">workout mats<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/bala-bangles-review-rcna263682\" target=\"_blank\">ankle weights<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/hatch-restore-2-review-rcna143055\" target=\"_blank\">sunrise alarm clocks<\/a>. To write this article, I coordinated Midea and Windmill window AC unit testing among the NBC Select staff, developed testing criteria to help us evaluate the units and collected feedback for each person.<\/p>\n<section id=\"anchor-26e619\" class=\"embed-widget embedWidget embed-widget--medium\" data-testid=\"embed-widget\"\/>\n<p id=\"anchor-49ebcc\" class=\"endmark body-graf\"><em><strong>Catch up on NBC Select\u2019s in-depth coverage of <\/strong><\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/tech-tools\" target=\"_blank\"><em><strong>tech and tools<\/strong><\/em><\/a><em><strong>, <\/strong><\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/wellness\" target=\"_blank\"><em><strong>wellness<\/strong><\/em><\/a><em><strong> and more, and follow us on <\/strong><\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/NBCSelect\" target=\"_blank\"><em><strong>Facebook<\/strong><\/em><\/a><em><strong>, <\/strong><\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/nbcselect\/\" target=\"_blank\"><em><strong>Instagram<\/strong><\/em><\/a><em><strong>, <\/strong><\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/nbcselect\" target=\"_blank\"><em><strong>Twitter<\/strong><\/em><\/a><em><strong> and <\/strong><\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tiktok.com\/@nbcselect\" target=\"_blank\"><em><strong>TikTok<\/strong><\/em><\/a><em><strong> to stay up to date.<\/strong><\/em> <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p><script async src=\"\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script><script async src=\"\/\/www.instagram.com\/embed.js\"><\/script><script async src=\"\/\/www.tiktok.com\/embed.js\"><\/script><br \/>\n<br \/><script async=\"async\" data-cfasync=\"false\" src=\"https:\/\/pl30214220.effectivecpmnetwork.com\/9ab3d4df8a7e1a6171e16ddbf732cc19\/invoke.js\"><\/script>\r\n<div id=\"container-9ab3d4df8a7e1a6171e16ddbf732cc19\"><\/div>\r\n<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>I prioritize two things when shopping for window AC units: power and looks. I want something that effectively and efficiently cools off my space but isn\u2019t an eyesore, and while researching models that meet my criteria, two brands repeatedly popped up: Midea and Windmill. At first glance, the window units look pretty similar, and both&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":1955,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"fifu_image_url":"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_nbcnews-fp-1200-630,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2026-07\/260707-midea-vs-windmill-oo-main-13ee0d.jpg","fifu_image_alt":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[4],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-1954","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-news-hub"],"brizy_media":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/usnews-14267fa.ingress-comporellon.ewp.live\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1954","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/usnews-14267fa.ingress-comporellon.ewp.live\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/usnews-14267fa.ingress-comporellon.ewp.live\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/usnews-14267fa.ingress-comporellon.ewp.live\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/usnews-14267fa.ingress-comporellon.ewp.live\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=1954"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/usnews-14267fa.ingress-comporellon.ewp.live\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1954\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/usnews-14267fa.ingress-comporellon.ewp.live\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/1955"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/usnews-14267fa.ingress-comporellon.ewp.live\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=1954"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/usnews-14267fa.ingress-comporellon.ewp.live\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=1954"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/usnews-14267fa.ingress-comporellon.ewp.live\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=1954"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}