Best bang for the buck:
Frigidaire FRA073PU1
BTUs: 5,000
Room Size: Up to 290 square feet
Dimensions (HxWxD): 32″ x 20″ x 16.75″
Weight: 64 pounds
Extras: Three speeds, remote control
Purchase: Amazon ($280) | Compare: Google
This Frigidaire beats the $300 starting price of most portable air conditioners but promises an extra 40 square feet of cooling power—most others at this price claim to be able to cool rooms up to 250 square feet or smaller in size.
If you’re looking for a similar option in town, Best Buy has the 7,000-BTU version of this unit for $300.