As an Amazon Associate and eBay Partner, toptenpick.com earns from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are subject to change.
An evaporative cooler can be useful in Los Angeles during hot, dry periods, especially outdoors or in a room with open windows. It is not a portable air conditioner: it adds moisture, so coastal and humid days can sharply reduce the benefit. These current coolers span personal, room and large patio use.
| # | Product | Price | Where to buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Hessaire MC12V | $90–$120 | Amazon · eBay |
| 2 | Hessaire MC18M | $170–$220 | Amazon · eBay |
| 3 | Hessaire MC18X | $230–$320 | Amazon · eBay |
| 4 | Hessaire MC37V | $360–$450 | Amazon · eBay |
| 5 | Hessaire MC61V | $550–$700 | Amazon · eBay |
| 6 | Hessaire W2800 | $380–$480 | Amazon |
| 7 | Bonaire Durango 2800 | $400–$500 | Amazon |
| 8 | Bonaire Durango 5900 | $1,100–$1,500 | Amazon · eBay |
| 9 | MasterCool MCP44 | $450–$650 | Amazon · eBay |
The picks, in detail
Hessaire MC12V
A compact 900 CFM portable model for a small, ventilated room or covered patio.
- 900 CFM
- portable
- two speeds
- Low entry price
- Compact
- Not for sealed rooms
Hessaire MC18M
The 1,300 CFM MC18M is a portable cooler marketed for up to 500 square feet.
- 1,300 CFM
- 500 sq ft claim
- folding handle
- Hose-capable portable design
- Well-known model
- Needs ventilation
Hessaire MC18X
A larger 1,300-CFM outdoor-oriented Hessaire option with a weather-resistant cabinet.
- 1,300 CFM
- outdoor use
- axial fan
- Good for patios
- Straightforward controls
- Bulky for apartments
Hessaire MC37V
This 3,100 CFM portable cooler is sized for larger open rooms or patio zones.
- 3,100 CFM
- three speeds
- portable
- More airflow
- Large tank
- Takes floor space
Hessaire MC61V
A 5,300 CFM portable option for big workshops, garages and open entertaining areas.
- 5,300 CFM
- three speeds
- portable
- High airflow
- Large-area option
- Heavy when filled
Hessaire W2800
A 2,800 CFM window evaporative cooler for a permanent, properly fitted opening.
- 2,800 CFM
- window mount
- two speeds
- Does not occupy floor space
- Dedicated installation
- Requires compatible window
Bonaire Durango 2800
A 2,800 CFM window unit for buyers who prefer Bonaire’s Durango format.
- 2,800 CFM
- window cooler
- three speeds
- Dedicated window design
- Good airflow class
- Installation required
Bonaire Durango 5900
A much larger whole-space window evaporative cooler for suitable dry-climate homes.
- 5,900 CFM
- window mount
- large capacity
- High airflow
- Home-scale option
- Not a renter-friendly installation
MasterCool MCP44
A 4,000 CFM portable evaporative cooler for open, dry spaces needing more circulation.
- 4,000 CFM
- portable
- rigid media
- Mid-large capacity
- Suitable for patios
- Check local stock
Buying tips
- Use an indoor unit only with an open window or door for exhaust air.
- Check the day’s humidity: evaporative cooling works best in hot, low-humidity air.
- Drain, dry and descale the unit between seasons to limit mineral buildup.
As an Amazon Associate and eBay Partner, toptenpick.com earns from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are subject to change.