Ductless mini-split air conditioners provide a flexible and energy-efficient way to heat and cool your home without requiring ductwork. This type of cooling system is ideal for single rooms, home additions, or spaces without central air. To help you find the best model for your needs, we reviewed the top ductless mini-split systems on Amazon for performance, efficiency, and overall value.
Key Takeaways
- We chose the Senville LETO 30,000 BTU Mini-Split as the best ductless mini-split air conditioner for its powerful performance, smart-home compatibility, and Energy Star certification.
- Ductless mini-splits cost $500–$2,000 for single-zone units and up to $20,000 for multi-zone systems, including installation.
- When choosing a ductless mini-split, focus on energy efficiency and cooling power. A Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER2) rating of 14 or higher indicates good efficiency, and 20 British Thermal Units (BTUs) per square foot provides adequate cooling coverage.
Top 5 Ductless Mini-Split Air Conditioners
- Senville LETO 30,000 BTU Mini-Split: Best Overall
- DELLA Vario Series 12,000 BTU Mini-Split: Best Smart Features
- Cooper & Hunter MIA Series 18,000 BTU Mini-Split: Best Value
- COSTWAY 12,000 BTU Mini Split: Best Multi-Function Design
- MRCOOL DIY 5th Gen 24,000 BTU Mini Split: Easiest DIY Installation
Compare Top Ductless Mini-Splits
The table below compares our picks for the top mini-split systems based on cooling power, SEER ratings, and more.
| Product | Image | Coverage | SEER2 Rating | BTUs | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Senville LETO 30,000 BTU Mini-SplitCheck Price | | 1,400 square feet | 18.6 | 30,000 | 2 years for parts, 5 years for compressor |
DELLA Vario Series 12,000 BTU Mini-SplitCheck Price | | 550 square feet | 19 | 12,000 | 3 years for parts, 5 years for compressor |
Cooper & Hunter MIA Series 18,000 BTU Mini-SplitCheck Price | | 800 square feet | 19 | 18,000 | 7 years |
COSTWAY 12,000 BTU Mini SplitCheck Price |  | 750 square feet | 21 | 12,000 | 5 years for parts, 8 years for compressor |
MRCOOL DIY 5th Gen 24,000 BTU Mini SplitCheck Price |  | 1,050 square feet | 22.7 | 24,000 | 5 years for parts, 7 years for compressor |
Our Reviews of the Best Ductless Mini-Split Air Conditioners
Our team evaluated a variety of ductless mini-split systems to accommodate a range of setups, budgets, and preferences. We looked at the ductless mini-splits for large, medium, and small rooms, as well as the quietest options and units with the best smart feature set. You can find all of our top picks on Amazon, making each option easy to compare and order.
Best Overall
Senville LETO 30,000 BTU Mini-Split
Good for: Cooling large, open spaces while maintaining energy efficiency and smart home control.
The Senville LETO 30,000 BTU Mini-Split offers a powerful, wall-mounted system ideal for cooling large spaces like garages, open-concept rooms, or additions. With built-in Amazon Alexa compatibility, a high 18.6 SEER rating, and ENERGY STAR certification, it balances smart convenience with impressive energy efficiency.
Pros and Cons of Senville LETO 30,000 BTU Mini-Split
- Cools spaces up to 1,400 square feet
- Includes smart home integration with Amazon Alexa
- Operates at a quiet 34 decibels for minimal disruption
- Offers a limited two-year warranty on most components
- Must opt for professional installation to maintain warranty coverage
Key Features
- Coverage: 1,400 square feet
- SEER Rating: 18.6
- BTUs: 30,000
What People Are Saying About The Senville LETO 30,000 BTU Mini-Split
Amazon customers like the Senville LETO 30,000 BTU Mini-Split for its strong cooling performance, energy efficiency, and quiet operation. Many reviewers mention the unit’s ability to handle year-round use and appreciate the added convenience of Alexa compatibility. While most reviews are positive, a few users mentioned needing extra parts for installation and found the instructions difficult to follow without prior HVAC experience.
Best Smart Features
DELLA Vario Series 12,000 BTU Mini-Split
Good for: Smart, efficient cooling in small to mid-sized rooms with customizable comfort features.
The DELLA Vario Series 12,000 BTU Mini-Split provides smart, Wi-Fi-enabled cooling for smaller spaces, such as bedrooms, home offices, or apartments. With a 20 SEER rating and built-in smart sensor, this unit offers efficient performance along with advanced features, including four-way airflow, a 24-hour timer, and multiple modes such as sleep, eco, auto, and dehumidification for customizable comfort.
Pros and Cons of DELLA Vario Series 12,000 BTU Mini-Split
- Includes the DELLA+ app for smart remote control and scheduling
- Offers multiple comfort modes for both heating and cooling
- Provides both vertical and horizontal airflow for better room coverage
- Not powerful enough to cool large or open-concept spaces
- Requires professional installation
Key Features
- Coverage: 550 square feet
- SEER Rating: 19 SEER2*
- BTUs: 12,000
*SEER2 is the updated 2023 efficiency standard that reflects how well an AC unit performs under real-world conditions.
What People Are Saying About The DELLA Vario Series 12,000 BTU Mini-Split
Most Amazon reviewers find the DELLA Vario Series 12,000 BTU mini-split easy to install and surprisingly powerful for its size. Customers like its smooth operation, strong cooling in hot weather, and quieter performance than expected. Some users had trouble with the smart app or experienced hardware issues, though these appear to be exceptions rather than the norm.
Best Value
Cooper & Hunter MIA Series 18,000 BTU Mini-Split
Good for: Efficient, smartphone-controlled heating and cooling in medium-sized spaces.
The Cooper & Hunter 18,000 BTU Mini Split, a midsized system, delivers good value with its combination of performance, features, and included accessories at a competitive price point. It efficiently heats and cools rooms up to 800 square feet with a 19 SEER rating and includes a smart port adapter for app-based control through the Cooper & Hunter Remote app. Precharged with refrigerant and bundled with a 16-foot installation kit, this unit offers strong performance and convenience.
Pros and Cons of Cooper & Hunter MIA Series 18,000 BTU Mini-Split
- Includes a 16-foot precharged installation kit
- Heats and cools rooms up to 800 square feet efficiently
- Operates in cold climates down to 5 degrees Fahrenheit
- Requires professional installation, meaning this is not a do-it-yourself (DIY)-friendly unit
- Potentially oversized for smaller rooms or tightly insulated spaces
Key Features
- Coverage: 800 square feet
- SEER Rating: 19
- BTUs: 18,000
What People Are Saying About The Cooper & Hunter MIA Series 18,000 BTU Mini-Split
Amazon buyers like the Cooper & Hunter MIA Series 18,000 BTU unit for its quiet operation, clean look, and ease of installation. Users say it heats and cools effectively and comes with user-friendly instructions. While overall customer satisfaction is high, a few reviewers experienced breakdowns within months of purchasing a unit or noted refrigerant issues.
Best Multi-Function Design
COSTWAY 12,000 BTU Mini Split
Good for: Versatile heating, cooling, and dehumidifying in small to mid-size rooms
The COSTWAY 12,000 BTU Mini Split Air Conditioner provides efficient, year-round comfort with its 4-in-1 design, offering cooling, heating, dehumidification, and fan modes. Ideal for spaces up to 750 square feet, this air conditioner uses inverter technology to maintain steady temperatures while reducing energy use, achieving a 21 SEER2 rating for excellent efficiency. The unit also features a built-in self-cleaning function to enhance air quality and uses R-32 refrigerant with a low global warming potential (GWP) for environmentally friendly operation. This system includes a wireless remote with multiple operating modes, providing flexible, user-friendly control in any season.
Pros and Cons of COSTWAY 12,000 BTU Mini Split
- Offers 4-in-1 functionality for heating, cooling, dehumidifying, and fan modes
- Includes a wireless remote and 13-foot copper line set for convenient installation
- Simplifies maintenance and improves air quality with a built-in self-cleaning function
- Doesn’t include smart-home features like Wi-Fi or app-based controls
- Generates more noise than other high-end or premium models
Key Features
- Coverage: 750 square feet
- SEER Rating: 21
- BTUs: 12,000
What People Are Saying About The COSTWAY 12,000 BTU Mini Split
Customers on Amazon say that the COSTWAY 12,000 BTU Mini Split Air Conditioner performs well, providing smooth heating and cooling for larger rooms. Many reviewers praise its quiet operation and easy installation, with all the necessary parts included in the box. Customers appreciate its solid build, quick startup, and energy efficiency, noting that the unit helps reduce utility bills. However, some reviewers mention that the instruction manual could read clearer, which can make setup a bit confusing for first-time users.
Easiest DIY Installation
MRCOOL DIY 5th Gen 24,000 BTU Mini Split
Good for: Easy, tool-free DIY installation with high-efficiency performance.
The MRCOOL DIY 5th Gen 24,000 BTU Mini Split is the only true DIY-friendly option in this review, offering powerful heating and cooling for spaces up to 1,050 square feet. With a SEER2 rating of up to 22.7 and variable-speed direct current (DC) inverter technology, this unit delivers year-round efficiency and comfort. The latest 5th-generation model uses the new, low-GWP R-454B refrigerant, designed to meet upcoming environmental standards while maintaining strong performance. Pre-charged and packaged with a 25-foot Quick Connect line set, the system installs easily without the need for special tools or professional assistance.
Pros and Cons of MRCOOL DIY 5th Gen 24,000 BTU Mini Split
- Backed by a seven-year warranty on the compressor and five-year warranty on parts
- Cools spaces up to 1,050 square feet
- Supports DIY setup with pre-charged quick-connect line
- Costs more than other models we’ve reviewed
- Larger size may not work for smaller rooms
Key Features
- Coverage: 1,050 square feet
- SEER Rating: 22.7
- BTUs: 24,000
What People Are Saying About The MRCOOL DIY 5th Gen 24,000 BTU Mini Split
Amazon buyers consistently mention how easy the MRCOOL DIY 5th Gen 24,000 BTU Mini Split is to install, even with minimal HVAC experience. Many customers praise its strong cooling performance and energy efficiency, noting that setup is straightforward with basic tools or online tutorials. A few reviewers report issues with customer support and product reliability, but most agree it’s a powerful, DIY-friendly system for homeowners seeking affordable comfort.
Ductless Mini-Split AC Buying Guide
According to our team’s research, the most important features in a ductless mini-split air conditioner are energy efficiency, cooling capacity, noise level, and ease of installation. When choosing a model for your home, start by evaluating each of these factors in relation to your space and budget.
Once you’ve narrowed your options, consider some helpful “nice-to-have” features like smart connectivity, multiple operating modes, and remote control. These extras can help you choose between similarly performing units.
Read our guide below for more details on how to choose the best ductless mini-split air conditioner for your needs.
Mini-Split vs. Central Air Systems
Ductless mini-splits are ideal for homes without existing ductwork, offering zoned cooling and improved energy efficiency. They’re typically cheaper and easier to install than central air systems, which require ducts and can lose energy through leaks. Central air provides whole-home comfort, but mini-splits offer room-by-room control and lower energy costs—perfect for additions, older homes, or energy-conscious homeowners.
Energy Efficiency Measurements
When shopping for a mini-split, prioritizing energy efficiency can help you reduce utility bills and lower your environmental impact. The Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) rating measures a system’s cooling output over a typical cooling season, divided by the total energy used. Higher SEER ratings indicate better energy efficiency and lower operating costs.
As of 2023, the U.S. Department of Energy introduced SEER2, an updated testing standard that reflects more realistic operating conditions. Under these new standards, residential air-conditioning systems must meet regional efficiency minimums of around 13.4 SEER2 in northern states and about 14.3 SEER2 in southern states, replacing the older 14 and 15 SEER minimums. For even better performance, look for Energy Star-certified models, which typically exceed these baselines and often achieve 15 SEER2 or higher, resulting in improved efficiency and eligibility for rebates or tax credits.
Cooling Capacity Measurements
Cooling capacity refers to the amount of space an air conditioner can effectively cool, measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs). The higher the BTU rating, the larger the area the unit can handle. A common rule of thumb is to allow 20 BTUs per square foot of space. For example, a 500-square-foot room would typically require a unit with a cooling capacity of at least 10,000 BTUs.
You’ll also need to consider factors like ceiling height, insulation, sun exposure, and the number of indoor zones. These zones refer to separate areas or rooms in your home that require individual temperature control, each typically served by its own wall-mounted indoor unit. If you’re trying to cool a poorly insulated space, opting for a higher BTU unit can help offset cooling losses and maintain consistent comfort.
Ductless Mini Split AC Cost
According to our team’s split AC installation guide, ductless mini-split air conditioners typically cost between $500 and $2,000 for a single-zone unit, while full multi-zone or whole-home systems can reach up to $20,000 with installation. Installation costs vary based on the number of indoor units, system size, and home layout. Expect to pay around $500–$5,000 to install a basic one-zone setup, while a five-zone system may cost between $4,400 and $12,000 in installation alone.
Rebates and Incentives
Installing an Energy Star-certified ductless mini-split heat pump may qualify you for valuable rebates and federal tax credits. Under the Inflation Reduction Act’s Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit (Section 25C), homeowners can claim up to $2,000 for qualifying air-source heat pump systems, including many ductless models that meet the required efficiency standards. This federal tax credit is set to expire at the end of 2025.
In addition to federal incentives, several states and local utility providers offer rebates for high-efficiency mini-split installations. Eligibility typically depends on the unit’s SEER2 rating, Energy Star certification, and installation by a licensed professional in your primary residence. Check your state energy office or local utility’s website for the most up-to-date programs and application details.
Unit Noise Level
Low-noise ductless mini-split systems can make it easier to sleep, work, or relax comfortably in any room. A unit’s operating volume is measured in A-weighted decibels (dBA), with lower numbers indicating quieter performance. Most indoor units run between 19 and 30 dBA, quieter than a whisper. For comparison, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that prolonged exposure to noise above 70 dBA can contribute to hearing damage. Fortunately, ductless mini-split units typically operate well below that threshold, making them a quiet and safe option for home use.
Installation Difficulty
Installation difficulty depends on the system’s size and design. Single-zone mini-splits near exterior walls are generally easier and less expensive to install, while multi-zone setups require more labor and materials due to additional indoor units and longer refrigerant lines.
Although some models offer pre-charged lines for easier self-installation, most systems require professional installation to ensure proper performance and maintain warranty coverage. Because the process involves electrical work and refrigerant handling, we recommend hiring a licensed HVAC contractor for your installation.
Other Mini-Split Features To Look For
Many modern ductless mini-split systems include advanced features for added comfort, convenience, and energy savings. For added benefits, look for models with smart connectivity, Wi-Fi or app-based controls, programmable timers, and sleep or auto modes that adjust operation for maximum efficiency.
Newer systems also incorporate inverter-driven compressors for precise temperature control, smart-home integration with platforms like Alexa and Google Home, and cold-climate performance that maintains heat output even in freezing conditions. Units that use R-32 refrigerant and eco-modes offer better environmental performance and lower operating costs.
Installation Requirements and Considerations
Installing a ductless mini-split AC system is less invasive than a traditional central air system, but it still requires careful planning. You’ll need to mount the indoor air handler(s), drill a small hole through the wall for the conduit, and place the outdoor condenser on a stable and well-ventilated surface. A licensed professional should handle the installation to ensure the system is correctly sized, safely wired, and properly charged with refrigerant.
Before purchasing a unit, consider how many zones you want to cool and where you want to place each indoor unit. Make sure your electrical panel can handle the system’s power needs and that your outdoor space meets clearance requirements. Thinking through these details ahead of time can help you avoid delays, added costs, or performance issues down the line.
Questions To Ask Mini-Split Installers
If you’re opting for a professional installation, choosing the right installer is just as important as selecting the right cooling system. We recommend asking these key questions before moving forward with any potential installer:
- Are you licensed and insured to perform HVAC installations in my area?
- How many ductless mini-split systems have you installed?
- Can you perform a load calculation to ensure the right system size for my home?
- Will you handle all electrical and refrigerant line work, or will you subcontract it?
- Do you obtain permits and schedule inspections, or is that my responsibility?
- How long will installation take from start to finish?
- What kind of maintenance or warranty support do you provide after installation?
Additional Air Conditioner Resources
There’s a lot to consider when it comes to investing in a ductless mini-split air conditioner—far more than we could hope to cover in this product roundup alone. We’ve also reviewed the best air conditioner brands.
Since we want to provide our readers with the most holistic guidance possible, we’ve compiled a list of our favorite air conditioning resources below.
- An Introduction to Home Air Conditioning Systems
- What Size Air Conditioner Do I Need?
- Our Top 10 Air Conditioning Tips
- How To Maintain Your Air Conditioner
- Air Conditioner Repair Costs
FAQs About Ductless Mini-Split Air Conditioners
How many mini-splits do I need to cool 2,000 square feet?
Most 2,000-square-foot homes require 2–4 mini-split units, depending on the layout, insulation, and climate. We recommend having a professional HVAC assessment to determine the right number and placement for your home.
How long do mini-split systems typically last?
Mini-split systems usually last 15–20 years with regular maintenance. Longevity depends on usage, brand quality, and how well the system is cared for.
Can one mini-split cool multiple rooms?
A single mini-split can cool multiple rooms if they’re connected by open spaces and airflow isn’t obstructed. However, larger or separated areas often need multi-zone systems with individual indoor units.
What are the disadvantages of a ductless mini-split?
Mini-splits can have a higher upfront cost and may end up being less effective in very large or multi-story homes without multiple units. Some homeowners also find the indoor units less visually appealing than central air vents.
What does a SEER2 rating mean for a ductless mini-split?
The SEER2 rating measures a cooling system’s energy efficiency during cooling. New standards introduced in 2023 require most units to meet or exceed 13.4–14.3 SEER2, depending on region. Many 2025 models achieve 15–19 SEER2, offering better performance, lower energy costs, and eligibility for rebates.
Our Methodology
To provide our readers with the best ductless mini-split air conditioner recommendations possible, we rely on several key sources of information to help guide our selection process.
- Initial research: Our research process began by generating a list of mini-split units with a significant number of verified buyer reviews and an average customer review rating of 4–5 stars on Amazon. We looked at positive and negative reviews, focusing on information from both satisfied and critical buyers.
- Expert insights: Through years of experience, we’ve learned that listening to what others have to say is key to building accurate, well-rounded articles. To complement our in-house expertise, our team looked at reviews and videos from trusted publications and independent testers, spoke with subject matter experts, and drew insights from reader contributions.
- Final product selection: We then began fine-tuning our list by replacing older models with the latest versions and eliminating any discontinued models. From there, we pared the list down by comparing each model’s feature set and selecting the best-in-class options for a variety of buyers, budgets, and scenarios.
Why You Can Trust Us
This Old House has empowered homeowners and DIYers for more than four decades with top-notch home improvement advice in the form of television programs, print media, and digital content.
Our team focuses on creating in-depth product and service review content. To date, we’ve published over 1,600 reviews on products for the home, from doorbell cameras and dining room decor to circular saws and snow blowers.
Once we conclude the research and testing phases, we craft a comprehensive, user-friendly article of recommended products and additional information to help our readers make the right purchase.
