June 16, 2025, 10:40 am | Read time: 3 minutes
Split air conditioning units can cool and also heat rooms, with many models operating efficiently. A recent test by Stiftung Warentest, a German consumer organization, reveals which models are recommended and what you need to know about them.
The “Stiftung Warentest” tested seven fixed and one mobile split air conditioning units with a cooling capacity of 3.5 kilowatts. All classic models received a “good” rating–a more affordable unit particularly impressed with its price-performance ratio. Here is an overview of the test results.
How Split Air Conditioners Work
Split air conditioning units typically consist of an indoor and an outdoor unit, connected by a fixed line. The warm air is transported directly outside, making them more efficient than the cheaper monoblock models. Additionally, many split units can also heat–a plus for year-round use.
However, installing traditional split air conditioners usually requires a wall breakthrough. An exception is a model from the current test by “Stiftung Warentest” (issue 6/2025).
Seven Fixed Units Impress
The “Stiftung Warentest” examined seven classic split units with a cooling capacity of 3.5 kilowatts. Prices ranged from 1,030 to 1,990 euros. All tested units can be controlled via an app and received an overall “good” rating. Two models were particularly efficient with a test score of 2.2:
- Daikin FTXM35A + RXM35A Perfera for 1,900 euros
- Samsung AR12CXCAAWKNEU + AR12TXCAAWK XEU for 1,420 euros
The LG H12S1P Dualcool stood out as a price-performance tip. At an average of 1,030 euros, it received a score of 2.4, making it the most affordable of the tested split units.
Mobile Split Unit: Flexible Solution for Rental Apartments
In addition to the classic models, a mobile split unit was also part of the test field–the Portasplit from Midea. Priced at around 1,000 euros, it received an overall score of 3.3. Although it performed worse in terms of power, it can be a sensible alternative for renters, according to the testers.
A wall breakthrough is not required, as the outdoor unit is very light and can be flexibly mounted outside. It is connected to the indoor unit via a special, non-fixed hose that can be routed through a slightly open window. If you want to use the unit in another location, you can easily relocate the outdoor unit and hose.
Two Models from Last Year Still Strong
Five units from an earlier test (6/2024) with mostly 2.5 kilowatts of cooling capacity were re-evaluated. Two of them impressed again:
- The MSOPB from Midea for 1,300 euros cooled the fastest–it lowered the temperature from 35 to 30 degrees in just seven and a half minutes and received a score of 2.4.
- A unit from Bosch for 1,550 euros took twice as long but was the most energy-efficient, making it the best of the tested 2.5-kW units.
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Choose the Right Capacity for the Room
The testers emphasize: The key is matching the cooling capacity to the room size. A 2.5-kW unit is suitable for rooms with 25 square meters of floor space and 2.60 meters of ceiling height, with a southern exposure. For rooms with 35 square meters, a 3.5-kW unit is recommended.
With material from dpa