Are you unsure whether to choose a portable air conditioner or a fan? An honest comparison of price, performance, consumption, and noise level.
The quick verdict
Fan = moves air, does not cool. Good for 25-28°C, useless above 30°C.
Portable air conditioner = truly cools the air (up to -8°C). Essential during heatwaves.
Comparison table
| Criterion | Fan | Portable air conditioner |
|---|---|---|
| Cools the air? | No | Yes (-5 to -8°C) |
| Price | 20-80 € | 40-500 € |
| Consumption | 50-100 W | 65-1200 W |
| Cost/hour | 0.01 € | 0.02-0.30 € |
| Noise level | 45-65 dB | 28-60 dB |
| Effectiveness at 35°C | Low | High |
When to choose a fan?
- Maximum temperature 28°C
- Budget <50 €
- Room already cool
When to choose a portable air conditioner?
- You really want to cool the air
- Recurring heatwaves
- Important sleep (night mode 28 dB)
- Room facing south
The hybrid option: the air cooler
Between the two: the Fresco 20L 3-in-1 combines fan + evaporative cooler + humidifier. 65 W but real cooling effect up to -5°C.
Our 2026 recommendation
For 80% of French people in apartments, a 9000 BTU portable air conditioner without a window at 129.99 € is the most cost-effective investment. See the Coldest Breeze™ Lite.