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New York–based startup focused on design-forward, eco-conscious window ACs
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Currently offers a single product line in multiple BTU sizes (cooling only)
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Known for ultra-quiet performance, smart connectivity, and clean aesthetics
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Excels in urban apartments and modern interiors
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Limited product variety and premium pricing hold it back for broader use
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Ideal for style-focused renters and tech-savvy small-space users

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Long-standing U.S. brand focused on durability, quiet operation, and advanced engineering
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Offers premium window, through-the-wall, portable, and PTAC units
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Known for build quality, low noise levels, and commercial-grade reliability
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Inverter models (like Kuhl and Chill Premier series) offer strong energy efficiency
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Smart features included but feel more functional than flashy
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Ideal for buyers who want quiet performance and long-term value
Windmill Air Conditioners
Windmill is one of the youngest — and boldest — names in the air conditioner market. Launched by a team of New York natives, the brand set out to fix everything people hate about traditional window units: ugly boxes, loud fans, and headache-inducing installations. Their flagship product is a sleek, whisper-quiet window AC with Wi-Fi control, eco-conscious packaging, and an interface so minimalist it could pass for a Sonos speaker. But for all its design chops, Windmill is still a niche player with limited muscle — so let’s see where its sleek simplicity shines, and where it’s not quite ready for primetime.
Friedrich Air Conditioners
Friedrich is one of the most respected names in U.S. air conditioning — and for good reason. Founded in 1883 in San Antonio, Texas, the brand has been crafting high-performance cooling systems since the 1950s, with a strong focus on institutional, hospitality, and premium residential applications. While they offer a broader lineup, Friedrich’s window air conditioners stand out for their build quality, quiet performance, and reliability. Their current window lineup includes three main series: the heavy-duty Kuhl®, the stylish and smart Chill® Premier, and the energy-efficient Chill® Premier Inverter. Unlike budget-focused brands, Friedrich builds for longevity — delivering quiet operation and commercial-grade components, even in residential settings. That said, the premium price tag and occasionally outdated app design can raise eyebrows. Let’s see where Friedrich justifies its cost — and where it needs to catch up.