Best HVAC · Mini-splits
The Best Mini-Splits of 2026, by How You Will Install It
There's no single best mini-split; it depends on who installs it and how cold it gets. To install it yourself, get the Klimaire DIY 12,000 BTU (24 SEER2, cold-climate certified, no vacuum pump needed). On a 115-volt circuit, get the Perfect Aire. With a pro installer, the Turbro Greenland 115V rates 23 SEER2 for about $650. For hard winters, the pro-installed Fujitsu H-Series AOUG12LZAS1 puts out 138% of its rated heat at 5°F.
The picks at a glance
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Best DIY
Klimaire DIY 12,000 BTU, 230V
24 SEER2 · COP 2.1 at 5°F · cold-climate certified3
$1,459 on Amazon, October 17, 2026
Check price on AmazonThe most efficient true-DIY unit at this size: pre-charged quick-connect lines, no vacuum pump or gauges, and the listing says self-install keeps the warranty. The listing says 23 SEER2; the certified rating for this exact pair is 24.
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Best DIY on 115 volts
Perfect Aire 12,000 BTU, 115V
22 SEER2 · COP 1.9 at 5°F · cold-climate certified4
$1,719.99 on Amazon, October 17, 2026
Check price on AmazonThe best-rated DIY unit that runs on 115 volts, so it can use a standard 120-volt circuit. You still need a dedicated circuit.
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Best value (pro install)
Turbro Greenland 115V 12,000 BTU
23 SEER2 · COP 2.1 at 5°F · cold-climate certified5
$649.99 on Amazon, October 17, 2026
Check price on AmazonThe cheapest 12,000 BTU unit here that is both ENERGY STAR and cold-climate certified. The listing includes a DIY guide but recommends a pro, who will vacuum and charge the lines. The 230-volt version rates 24 SEER2 for $699.99.
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Best for hard winters
Fujitsu H-Series AOUG12LZAS1, 12,000 BTU
29.4 SEER2 · 138% of rated heat at 5°F · COP 2.321
Not on Amazon. Sold through installers.
It keeps more of its heat at 5°F than any unit we could match on Amazon (best there: 96%).
Certified ratings are the AHRI Directory figures for the exact outdoor + indoor pair each listing names. Prices are Amazon's on October 17, 2026 and change often. Affiliate links; we earn a commission at no cost to you.
What the certified list shows: Of 5,082 certified mini-split systems, the most efficient are the smallest: the top rating is 35.1 SEER2 at 6,000 BTU and 27 at 24,000 BTU. 34 Amazon listings match an exact certified system; 12 of them are DIY kits with pre-charged quick-connect lines.
01 / Most efficient
The most efficient mini-split at each size
Efficiency falls as size goes up, so compare units of the size you need. Certified list as of July 12, 2026; the online column uses Amazon listings matched to their exact certified system, priced October 17, 2026.1
| Size | Systems | Top SEER2 | Top-rated brands | Typical | Best you can buy on Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6,000 BTU | 81 | 35.1 | Carrier, MDV | 25.7 | none matched to a certified system |
| 9,000 BTU | 822 | 33.5 | Carrier, Fujitsu, MDV | 23 | Turbro Greenland, 23 SEER2, $549.99 Check price |
| 12,000 BTU | 777 | 31.5 | Fujitsu | 23.1 | Turbro Greenland 230V, 24 SEER2, $699.99 Check price |
| 15,000 BTU | 143 | 28.7 | Fujitsu | 21.5 | none matched to a certified system |
| 18,000 BTU | 944 | 27.5 | ECO AC, Gree, Kinghome, Ouellet +3 | 21.5 | Klimaire DIY, 23 SEER2, $1,583.10 Check price |
| 24,000 BTU | 757 | 27 | Blueridge, ECO AC, Gree, Kinghome +4 | 21 | Klimaire DIY, 23 SEER2, $1,869 Check price |
Top SEER2 is the highest certified rating at that size; typical is the median. Several brands often share one top rating because they sell the same certified machine under different names.
02 / Before you buy
How to choose in four questions
- Will you install it yourself? Only pre-charged quick-connect systems are true DIY. Klimaire DIY and Perfect Aire are. Most others need a pro to vacuum the lines and add refrigerant, and some void the warranty if you do it yourself.
- What size do you need? ENERGY STAR's sizing chart: 9,000 BTU for 350-400 sq ft, 12,000 for 450-550, 18,000 for 700-1,000. Add 10% for a very sunny room and 4,000 BTU for a kitchen. A 500 sq ft room needs 12,000 BTU.
- What circuit do you have? 115-volt units can run on a standard 120-volt circuit. 230-volt units need a 240-volt circuit, like a dryer's. Both need their own breaker.
- How cold does it get? Look for the ENERGY STAR cold-climate label and the COP at 5°F. A COP of 2 means 2 units of heat for each unit of electricity, even at 5°F. If your winters go well below zero, ask an installer about a hyper-heat system.
Tools: sizing calculator · what size for 500 sq ft · best mini split for a garage · running cost at your prices · window AC or mini-split?
03 / Brands
Does the brand matter?
Less than you'd think. The typical certified system rates about 21.8 SEER2 whatever the badge. Brands differ in how they are sold and installed, and in how they hold heat in deep cold.
| Brand | Systems | Typical SEER2 | Best SEER2 | Cold-climate certified |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mitsubishi Electric | 189 | 20.7 | 35 | 61% |
| Fujitsu | 85 | 22.7 | 33.5 | 88% |
| Daikin | 36 | 20 | 25.2 | 78% |
| LG | 130 | 20.9 | 27 | 75% |
| Gree | 201 | 21 | 30 | 92% |
| Midea | 166 | 21.4 | 35 | 77% |
| Carrier | 81 | 21.5 | 35.1 | 80% |
| Bosch | 44 | 22.2 | 27.4 | 77% |
| Panasonic | 38 | 22.4 | 27.5 | 87% |
| Samsung | 44 | 22 | 25 | 77% |
| MRCOOL | 58 | 22.4 | 28.1 | 66% |
| Senville | 36 | 22.3 | 33.3 | 78% |
| Pioneer | 41 | 22.5 | 25.5 | 83% |
| Cooper & Hunter | 32 | 21.3 | 26 | 88% |
04 / The full field
All 5,082 systems, ranked by SEER2
Click a column to re-sort. Each row links to that unit's full record with running cost. Units sold under several brand names appear once.
| Model | SEER2 | HSPF2 | COP @ 5°F | Cooling BTU | Refrigerant | Buy | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Carrier 37MPRAQ06AA3ductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient · also sold as Bryant, Midea, Payne +1 | 35.1 | 15.6 | 2× | 6,000 | R-454B | — |
| MDV MOX430-06HFN10-M1Hductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 35.1 | 15.6 | 2× | 6,000 | R-454B | — |
| AI AIR CONDITIONING AO35-06N2-M1Hductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 35 | 15.6 | 2× | 6,000 | R-454B | — |
| KEEN Home KEENHYMHP06AAductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 35 | 15.6 | 2× | 6,000 | R-454B | — |
| BLUERIDGE BMS635SHYCductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 35 | 15.6 | 2× | 6,000 | R-454B | — |
| BLUERIDGE BXS6A06UC0ductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 35 | 15.6 | 2× | 6,000 | R-454B | — |
| Comfort Aire A-ZHP06SA-1ductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient · also sold as Comfort-aire | 35 | 15.6 | 2× | 6,000 | R-454B | — |
| KERR A-KZP06SA-1ductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient · also sold as Kerr Kapstone | 35 | 15.6 | 2× | 6,000 | R-454B | — |
| KERR A-ZKP06SA-1ductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 35 | 15.6 | 2× | 6,000 | R-454B | — |
| MAINLINE ML06HP230CALH-Oductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 35 | 15.6 | 2× | 6,000 | R-454B | — |
| Midea MO1SS-H06B-2Aductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 35 | 15.6 | 2× | 6,000 | R-454B | — |
| Mitsubishi Electric MUZ-FX06NLHZductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 35 | 13 | 2.38× | 6,000 | R-454B | — |
| Mitsubishi Electric MUZ-FX06NLHZ2ductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 35 | 13 | 2.38× | 6,000 | R-454B | — |
| Carrier 37MPRAQ09AA3ductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient · also sold as Bryant, Midea, Payne +1 | 33.5 | 14.6 | 2× | 9,000 | R-454B | — |
| Fujitsu AOUH09KTAP1ductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 33.5 | 14 | 2.48× | 9,000 | R-32 | — |
| MDV MOX430-09HFN10-M1Hductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 33.5 | 14.6 | 2× | 9,000 | R-454B | — |
| AI AIR CONDITIONING AO35-09N2-M1Hductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 33.3 | 14.6 | 2× | 9,000 | R-454B | — |
| KEEN Home KEENHYMHP09AAductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 33.3 | 14.6 | 2× | 9,000 | R-454B | — |
| CanAir 4C35SCH09H21ductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 33.3 | 14.6 | 2× | 9,000 | R-454B | — |
| BLUERIDGE BMS933SHYCductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 33.3 | 14.6 | 2× | 9,000 | R-454B | — |
| BLUERIDGE BXS6A09UC0ductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 33.3 | 14.6 | 2× | 9,000 | R-454B | — |
| Century A-ZHP09SA-1ductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient · also sold as Comfort Aire | 33.3 | 14.6 | 2× | 9,000 | R-454B | — |
| Comfort Aire A-ZHPO9SA-1ductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient · also sold as Comfort-aire | 33.3 | 14.6 | 2× | 9,000 | R-454B | — |
| KERR A-KZPO9SA-1ductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 33.3 | 14.6 | 2× | 9,000 | R-454B | — |
| KERR A-ZKP09SA-1ductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 33.3 | 14.6 | 2× | 9,000 | R-454B | — |
| Kerr Kapstone A-KZP09SA-1ductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 33.3 | 14.6 | 2× | 9,000 | R-454B | — |
| MAINLINE ML09HP230CALH-Oductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 33.3 | 14.6 | 2× | 9,000 | R-454B | — |
| Midea MO1SS-H09B-2Aductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 33.3 | 14.6 | 2× | 9,000 | R-454B | — |
 | Senville SENE-09EL-OHductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 33.3 | 14.6 | 2× | 9,000 | R-454B | Similar |
| Midea D5CPRAH06AAKductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient · also sold as Airquest, Arcoaire, Comfortmaker +3 | 33.1 | 15.6 | 2× | 6,000 | R-454B | — |
| Fujitsu AOUG09LZAH1ductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 33.1 | 13.3 | 2× | 9,000 | R-410A | — |
| Fujitsu AOUG09LZAS1ductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 33.1 | 13.4 | 2.14× | 9,000 | R-410A | — |
| Fujitsu AOUH09KZAH1ductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 33.1 | 13.3 | 2.26× | 9,000 | R-32 | — |
| Mitsubishi Electric MUZ-FX09NLHZductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 33.1 | 13.3 | 2.2× | 9,000 | R-454B | — |
| Mitsubishi Electric MUZ-FX09NLHZ2ductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 33.1 | 13.3 | 2.2× | 9,000 | R-454B | — |
| American Standard / Mitsubishi Electric MUZ-FS06NAductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient · also sold as Mitsubishi Electric, Trane / Mitsubishi Electric | 32.2 | 11.9 | 2.46× | 6,000 | R-410A | — |
| American Standard / Mitsubishi Electric MUZ-FS06NAHductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient · also sold as Mitsubishi Electric, Trane / Mitsubishi Electric | 32.2 | 10.9 | 2.46× | 6,000 | R-410A | — |
| American Standard / Mitsubishi Electric NAXSPB06B112Aductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient · also sold as Trane / Mitsubishi Electric | 32.2 | 10.9 | 2.46× | 6,000 | R-410A | — |
| American Standard / Mitsubishi Electric NAXSPH06B112Aductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient · also sold as Trane / Mitsubishi Electric | 32.2 | 11.9 | 2.46× | 6,000 | R-410A | — |
| Gridless GRID09OHHVductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 32 | 11.8 | 2.25× | 9,000 | R-454B | — |
| Hisense AO-09U3T25Pductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 32 | 11.8 | 2.25× | 9,000 | R-454B | — |
| Hisense AO-09U3T26P2ductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 32 | 11.8 | 2.25× | 9,000 | R-454B | — |
| Hisense AS-09UW3TBW00ductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 32 | 11.8 | 2.25× | 9,000 | R-454B | — |
| HAXXAIR HVHZ-09A2Uductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 32 | 11.8 | 2.25× | 9,000 | R-454B | — |
| Zephyr ZE-09UB32Oductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 32 | 11.8 | 2.25× | 9,000 | R-454B | — |
| Midea D5CPRAH09AAKductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient · also sold as Airquest, Arcoaire, Comfortmaker +3 | 31.5 | 14.6 | 2× | 9,000 | R-454B | — |
| Fujitsu AOUH12KTAP1ductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 31.5 | 13.7 | 2.62× | 12,000 | R-32 | — |
| Fujitsu AOUH12KZAH1ductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 30.5 | 12.7 | 2.16× | 12,000 | R-32 | — |
| Willis AUHW09KR32-Oductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 30 | 11.2 | 2.11× | 9,100 | R-32 | — |
| Ouellet OARX-H09A-Oductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 30 | 11.2 | 2.11× | 9,100 | R-32 | — |
| Fujitsu AOUH09KMAS1ductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 30 | 12.6 | 2.32× | 9,000 | R-32 | — |
| GE Appliances ASH109URDEductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 30 | 14 | 1.9× | 9,000 | R-410A | — |
| GE Appliances ASH109URDSEductless mini-split | 30 | 14 | 1.8× | 9,000 | R-410A | — |
| Haier 1U09EH2HEductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 30 | 14 | 1.9× | 9,000 | R-410A | — |
| Haier 1U09EH2VHEductless mini-split | 30 | 14 | 1.8× | 9,000 | R-410A | — |
| GREE AIRY09HP230V1AOductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 30 | 11.2 | 2.11× | 9,100 | R-32 | — |
| GREE GS09HP230V1RYOductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 30 | 11.2 | 2.11× | 9,100 | R-32 | — |
| GREE GWH09AVDXE-D6DNA1A/Oductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 30 | 11.2 | 2.11× | 9,100 | R-32 | — |
| GREE GWH09AVDXE-D6DNA1B/Oductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 30 | 11.2 | 2.11× | 9,100 | R-32 | — |
| GREE SAP09HP230V1R32AOductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 30 | 11.2 | 2.11× | 9,100 | R-32 | — |
| Kinghome KW09XQ29S1DOductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 30 | 11.2 | 2.11× | 9,100 | R-32 | — |
| Kinghome KW09XQ29SDOductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 30 | 11.2 | 2.11× | 9,100 | R-32 | — |
| TOSOT TW09HAY32A1DOductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 30 | 11.2 | 2.11× | 9,100 | R-32 | — |
| TOSOT TW09HAY32A1DOCductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 30 | 11.2 | 2.11× | 9,100 | R-32 | — |
| TOSOT TW09WH29D6DOductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 30 | 11.2 | 2.11× | 9,100 | R-32 | — |
| TOSOT TWH09AD32AOductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 30 | 11.2 | 2.11× | 9,100 | R-32 | — |
| TOSOT TWH09AV29D6DOductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 30 | 11.2 | 2.11× | 9,100 | R-32 | — |
| Gridless GRID12OHHVductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 30 | 11.8 | 2.25× | 12,000 | R-454B | — |
| Hisense AO-12U3T25Pductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 30 | 11.8 | 2.25× | 12,000 | R-454B | — |
| Hisense AO-12U3T26P2ductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 30 | 11.8 | 2.25× | 12,000 | R-454B | — |
| Hisense AS-12UW3TBW00ductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 30 | 11.8 | 2.25× | 12,000 | R-454B | — |
| ECO AC EHP-O09KBBductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 30 | 11.2 | 2.11× | 9,100 | R-32 | — |
| HAXXAIR HVHZ-12A2Uductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 30 | 11.8 | 2.25× | 12,000 | R-454B | — |
| Zephyr ZE-12UB32Oductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 30 | 11.8 | 2.25× | 12,000 | R-454B | — |
| Mitsubishi Electric MUZ-FX12NLHZductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 29.9 | 12.4 | 2.2× | 12,000 | R-454B | — |
| Mitsubishi Electric MUZ-FX12NLHZ2ductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 29.9 | 12.4 | 2.2× | 12,000 | R-454B | — |
| American Standard / Mitsubishi Electric MUZ-FS09NAductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient · also sold as Mitsubishi Electric, Trane / Mitsubishi Electric | 29.8 | 10.9 | 2.4× | 9,000 | R-410A | — |
| American Standard / Mitsubishi Electric MUZ-FS09NAHductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient · also sold as Mitsubishi Electric, Trane / Mitsubishi Electric | 29.8 | 10 | 2.4× | 9,000 | R-410A | — |
| American Standard / Mitsubishi Electric NAXSPB09B112Aductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient · also sold as Trane / Mitsubishi Electric | 29.8 | 10 | 2.4× | 9,000 | R-410A | — |
| American Standard / Mitsubishi Electric NAXSPH09B112Aductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient · also sold as Trane / Mitsubishi Electric | 29.8 | 10.9 | 2.4× | 9,000 | R-410A | — |
| Mitsubishi Electric MUZ-FH09NAHductless mini-split | 29.8 | 10 | — | 9,000 | R-410A | — |
| TOSHIBA CARRIER MCY-MUB0368HS2P-ULductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 29.7 | 12.2 | 2.42× | 36,000 | R-454B | — |
| QuébecVair QVNOductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 29.5 | 10 | 2× | 12,000 | R-32 | — |
| Willis AUHW12KR32-Oductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 29.5 | 10 | 2× | 12,000 | R-32 | — |
| Carrier 37MPRAQ12AA3ductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient · also sold as Bryant, Midea, Payne +1 | 29.5 | 12.7 | 2× | 12,000 | R-454B | — |
| Ouellet OARX-H12A-Oductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 29.5 | 10 | 2× | 12,000 | R-32 | — |
| GREE AIRY12HP230V1AOductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 29.5 | 10 | 2× | 12,000 | R-32 | — |
| GREE GS12HP230V1RYOductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 29.5 | 10 | 2× | 12,000 | R-32 | — |
| GREE GWH12AVDXE-D6DNA1A/Oductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 29.5 | 10 | 2× | 12,000 | R-32 | — |
| GREE GWH12AVDXE-D6DNA1B/Oductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 29.5 | 10 | 2× | 12,000 | R-32 | — |
| GREE SAP12HP230V1R32AOductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 29.5 | 10 | 2× | 12,000 | R-32 | — |
| Kinghome KW12XQ29ductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 29.5 | 10 | 2× | 12,000 | R-32 | — |
| Kinghome KW12XQ29S1DOductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 29.5 | 10 | 2× | 12,000 | R-32 | — |
| Kinghome KW12XQ29SDOductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 29.5 | 10 | 2× | 12,000 | R-32 | — |
| TOSOT TW12HAY32A1DOductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 29.5 | 10 | 2× | 12,000 | R-32 | — |
| TOSOT TW12HAY32A1DOCductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 29.5 | 10 | 2× | 12,000 | R-32 | — |
| TOSOT TW12WH29D6DOductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 29.5 | 10 | 2× | 12,000 | R-32 | — |
| TOSOT TWH12AD32AOductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 29.5 | 10 | 2× | 12,000 | R-32 | — |
| TOSOT TWH12AV29D6DOductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 29.5 | 10 | 2× | 12,000 | R-32 | — |
| ECO AC EHP-O12KBBductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 29.5 | 10 | 2× | 12,000 | R-32 | — |
| AI AIR CONDITIONING AO35-12N2-M1Hductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 29.4 | 12.7 | 2× | 12,000 | R-454B | — |
| KEEN Home KEENHYMHP12AAductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 29.4 | 12.7 | 2× | 12,000 | R-454B | — |
| CanAir 4C35SCH12H21ductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 29.4 | 12.7 | 2× | 12,000 | R-454B | — |
| BLUERIDGE BMS1229SHYCductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 29.4 | 12.7 | 2× | 12,000 | R-454B | — |
| BLUERIDGE BXS6A12UC0ductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 29.4 | 12.7 | 2× | 12,000 | R-454B | — |
| Fujitsu AOUG12LZAH1ductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 29.4 | 12.7 | 2.16× | 12,000 | R-410A | — |
| Fujitsu AOUG12LZAS1ductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 29.4 | 12.9 | 2.32× | 12,000 | R-410A | — |
| Comfort Aire A-ZHP12SA-1ductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient · also sold as Comfort-aire | 29.4 | 12.7 | 2× | 12,000 | R-454B | — |
| KERR A-KZP12SA-1ductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient · also sold as Kerr Kapstone | 29.4 | 12.7 | 2× | 12,000 | R-454B | — |
| KERR A-ZKP12SA-1ductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 29.4 | 12.7 | 2× | 12,000 | R-454B | — |
| MOOVAIR MSHHA12C2AN1ductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 29.4 | 12.7 | 2× | 12,000 | R-454B | — |
| MAINLINE ML12HP230CALH-Oductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 29.4 | 12.7 | 2× | 12,000 | R-454B | — |
| Midea MO1SS-H12B-2Aductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 29.4 | 12.7 | 2× | 12,000 | R-454B | — |
| Senville SENE-12EL-OHductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 29.4 | 12.7 | 2× | 12,000 | R-454B | Similar |
| AI AIR CONDITIONING AO29-09N1-M1Hductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 29 | 14 | 1.86× | 9,000 | R-410A | — |
| Goodman MSH093G26MCAAductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 29 | 14 | 1.86× | 9,000 | R-410A | — |
| EG4 DWA4-09Kductless mini-split · also sold as Deye | 29 | 9.8 | — | 9,000 | R-410A | — |
| LBG Products LBHB09DYWOductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 29 | 14 | 1.86× | 9,000 | R-410A | — |
| MOOVAIR DMB09HOS42230E8ductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 29 | 14 | 1.86× | 9,000 | R-410A | — |
| Fujitsu AOUH15KTAP1ductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 28.7 | 13 | 2.52× | 14,500 | R-32 | — |
| Mitsubishi Electric MUFZ-KJ09NAHZductless mini-split | 28.7 | 11.3 | — | 9,000 | R-410A | — |
| Trane / Mitsubishi Electric NTXSPF09A112Aductless mini-split | 28.7 | 11.3 | — | 9,000 | R-410A | — |
| Midea MOX430-09HFN1-MZG5Wductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 28.5 | 12 | 1.85× | 9,000 | R-410A | — |
| MOOVAIR DMA09HOS42230E4ductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 28.5 | 12 | 1.85× | 9,000 | R-410A | — |
| American Standard / Mitsubishi Electric MUZ-GS09NAductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient · also sold as Mitsubishi Electric, Trane / Mitsubishi Electric | 28.4 | 10.9 | 2.12× | 9,000 | R-410A | — |
| American Standard / Mitsubishi Electric MUZ-GS09NAHZductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient · also sold as Mitsubishi Electric, Trane / Mitsubishi Electric | 28.4 | 9.6 | 2.01× | 9,000 | R-410A | — |
| Mitsubishi Electric MUZ-GS09NAHductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 28.4 | 10.2 | 2.12× | 9,000 | R-410A | — |
| Mitsubishi Electric MUZ-GX09NLductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 28.4 | 10.9 | 1.8× | 9,000 | R-454B | — |
| Mitsubishi Electric MUZ-GX09NLH2ductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 28.4 | 10.9 | 1.8× | 9,000 | R-454B | — |
| Mitsubishi Electric MUZ-GX09NLHZductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 28.4 | 10.2 | 1.8× | 9,000 | R-454B | — |
| Mitsubishi Electric MUZ-GX09NLHZ2ductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 28.4 | 10.2 | 1.8× | 9,000 | R-454B | — |
| Trane / Mitsubishi Electric NTXSSH09A112ductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 28.4 | 9.6 | 2.01× | 9,000 | R-410A | — |
| Trane / Mitsubishi Electric NTXSST09B112ductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 28.4 | 10.9 | 2.12× | 9,000 | R-410A | — |
| Carrier DLCSRBH09AAKductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient · also sold as Bryant | 28.1 | 11.5 | 2× | 9,000 | R-410A | — |
| Franklin MSH093F25MCAAductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 28.1 | 11.5 | 2× | 9,000 | R-410A | — |
| CanAir C28SCH09H21ductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 28.1 | 11.5 | 2× | 9,000 | R-410A | — |
| CONFORTO MHSZ109DAductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient · also sold as EMI | 28.1 | 11.5 | 2× | 9,000 | R-410A | — |
| Century A-VMH09SV-1ductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 28.1 | 11.5 | 2× | 9,000 | R-410A | — |
| MRCOOL O-HH-09-HP-C-230Aductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 28.1 | 11.5 | 2× | 9,000 | R-410A | — |
| MRCOOL O-HH-09-HP-C-230Bductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 28.1 | 11.5 | 2× | 9,000 | R-410A | — |
| KANIONco KWSM-09IR410AHS28.1ODUductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 28.1 | 11.5 | 2× | 9,000 | R-410A | — |
| Napoleon NDHAS26-09-Oductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 28.1 | 11.5 | 2× | 9,000 | R-410A | — |
| Midea D5CPRAH12AAKductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient · also sold as Airquest, Arcoaire, Comfortmaker +3 | 28 | 12.7 | 2× | 12,000 | R-454B | — |
| EG4 DWA4-12Kductless mini-split · also sold as Deye | 28 | 9.7 | — | 12,000 | R-410A | — |
| MDV MOX430-12HFN10-M1Hductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 28 | 12.7 | 2× | 12,000 | R-454B | — |
| QuébecVair QVNOductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 27.5 | 10 | 1.8× | 18,000 | R-32 | — |
| Willis AUHW18KR32-Oductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 27.5 | 10 | 1.8× | 18,000 | R-32 | — |
| AI AIR CONDITIONING AO29-12N1-M1Hductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 27.5 | 14.5 | 1.86× | 12,000 | R-410A | — |
| AIR-CON ABZCI4H4S09ductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 27.5 | 10.5 | 2.1× | 9,000 | R-410A | — |
| Goodman MSH123G26MCAAductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 27.5 | 14.5 | 1.86× | 12,000 | R-410A | — |
| Ouellet OARX-H18A-Oductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 27.5 | 10 | 1.8× | 18,000 | R-32 | — |
| DIRECT AIR DIR-09HP28-TQOductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 27.5 | 10.5 | 2.1× | 9,000 | R-410A | — |
| Fujitsu AOUH12KMAS1ductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 27.5 | 11.2 | 2.38× | 12,000 | R-32 | — |
| Fujitsu AOUH15KZAH1ductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 27.5 | 12.7 | 2.1× | 14,500 | R-32 | — |
| Westinghouse WHZ09SZA21Sductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 27.5 | 10.5 | 2.1× | 9,000 | R-410A | — |
| GE Appliances ASH112URDEductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 27.5 | 12.5 | 1.9× | 12,000 | R-410A | — |
| Haier 1U12EH2HEductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 27.5 | 12.5 | 1.9× | 12,000 | R-410A | — |
| LBG Products LBHB12DYWOductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 27.5 | 14.5 | 1.86× | 12,000 | R-410A | — |
 | GREE AIRY18HP230V1AOductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 27.5 | 10 | 1.8× | 18,000 | R-32 | Similar |
| GREE GS18HP230V1RYOductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 27.5 | 10 | 1.8× | 18,000 | R-32 | Similar |
| GREE GWH18AVEXF-D6DNA1A/Oductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 27.5 | 10 | 1.8× | 18,000 | R-32 | Similar |
| GREE GWH18AVEXF-D6DNA1B/Oductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 27.5 | 10 | 1.8× | 18,000 | R-32 | Similar |
| GREE SAP18HP230V1R32AOductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 27.5 | 10 | 1.8× | 18,000 | R-32 | Similar |
| Kinghome KW18XQ29S1DOductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 27.5 | 10 | 1.8× | 18,000 | R-32 | — |
| Kinghome KW18XQ29SDOductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 27.5 | 10 | 1.8× | 18,000 | R-32 | — |
| TOSOT TW18HAY32A1DOductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 27.5 | 10 | 1.8× | 18,000 | R-32 | — |
| TOSOT TW18HAY32A1DOCductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 27.5 | 10 | 1.8× | 18,000 | R-32 | — |
| TOSOT TW18WH29D6DOductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 27.5 | 10 | 1.8× | 18,000 | R-32 | — |
| TOSOT TWH18AD32AOductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 27.5 | 10 | 1.8× | 18,000 | R-32 | — |
| TOSOT TWH18AR32AOductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 27.5 | 10 | 1.8× | 18,000 | R-32 | — |
| TOSOT TWH18AV29D6DOductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 27.5 | 10 | 1.8× | 18,000 | R-32 | — |
| Hisense AS-09UR3SXE00ductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 27.5 | 10.5 | 2.1× | 9,000 | R-410A | — |
| Hisense AS-09UW3SXE00ductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 27.5 | 10.5 | 2.1× | 9,000 | R-410A | — |
| Hisense AS-09UW3SXETG00ductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 27.5 | 10.5 | 2.1× | 9,000 | R-410A | — |
| Hisense AS-09UW3SXETG00Gductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 27.5 | 10.5 | 2.1× | 9,000 | R-410A | — |
| Hisense AS-09UW3SXETG00Pductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 27.5 | 10.5 | 2.1× | 9,000 | R-410A | — |
| ECO AC EHP-O18KBBductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 27.5 | 10 | 1.8× | 18,000 | R-32 | — |
| MOOVAIR DMA12HOS42230E4ductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 27.5 | 14.5 | 1.86× | 12,000 | R-410A | — |
| MOOVAIR DMB12HOS42230E8ductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 27.5 | 14.5 | 1.86× | 12,000 | R-410A | — |
| MOOVAIR SHC24VH2AGductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 27.5 | 14.5 | 1.86× | 12,000 | R-410A | — |
| Panasonic CS-XZ9AKUAW/CU-XZ9AKUACductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 27.5 | 12 | 2.31× | 8,700 | R-32 | — |
| Panasonic CS-Z9AKUAW/CU-XZ9AKUACductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 27.5 | 12 | 2.31× | 8,700 | R-32 | — |
| Panasonic CU-XZ9AKUACductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 27.5 | 12 | 2.31× | 8,700 | R-32 | — |
| J-KU JKS09HP230V1XCductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 27.5 | 10.5 | 2.1× | 9,000 | R-410A | — |
| Bosch BMS500-AAS009-1CSXHDductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 27.4 | 12.5 | 1.8× | 9,000 | R-454B | — |
| EMI EMXSZ109DAductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 27.4 | 12.5 | 1.8× | 9,000 | R-454B | — |
| MRCOOL O-ES-09-HP-C-230C-O1ductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 27.4 | 12.5 | 1.8× | 9,000 | R-454B | — |
| MRCOOL O-HH-09-HP-C-230C-Oductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 27.4 | 12.5 | 1.8× | 9,000 | R-454B | — |
| MOOVAIR MSHMA09C2ANductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 27.4 | 12.5 | 1.8× | 9,000 | R-454B | — |
| NOVAIR LEA09SZ36-Oductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 27.4 | 12.5 | 1.8× | 9,000 | R-454B | — |
| Senville SENA-09HF-OGductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 27.4 | 12.5 | 1.8× | 9,000 | R-454B | Similar |
| Continental CDHAS26B-09-Oductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 27.4 | 12.5 | 1.8× | 9,000 | R-454B | — |
| Continental CDHAS26BA-09-Oductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 27.4 | 12.5 | 1.8× | 9,000 | R-454B | — |
| Panasonic CU-XE9WKUAductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 27.3 | 12 | 2.06× | 8,700 | R-410A | — |
| QuébecVair QVNOductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 27 | 10 | 1.8× | 22,000 | R-32 | — |
| Willis AUHW24KR32-Oductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 27 | 10 | 1.8× | 22,000 | R-32 | — |
| ACD UHD09KCH38SB-Oductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 27 | 11 | 1.91× | 9,000 | R-410A | — |
 | DELLA 048-TPH-MODU-1D3ductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 27 | 10 | 2× | 20,000 | R-454B | Similar |
| BOREAL KUL09HPL132OAductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 27 | 10.5 | 1.83× | 9,100 | R-32 | — |
| BOREAL KULA09HPL1OBductless mini-split · cold-climate · Most Efficient | 27 | 10 | 1.87× | 9,100 | R-410A | — |
Similar means Amazon does not list that exact model. The button opens a unit of the same brand and size instead. Check its specs before you buy.
This table shows the top 200 of 5,082 by SEER2. See every one in the product database: browse all 5,082 → At the median heat-pump price, heat runs about $19.82/MMBtu vs $55.19 for electric resistance heat.
05 / Questions
Frequently asked
- What is the best mini-split brand?
- No brand wins on the numbers. Across 14 big brands, the typical (median) certified system rates between 20 and 22.7 SEER2. What differs is how you buy and install them: MRCOOL and Klimaire sell true DIY kits online, Mitsubishi, Fujitsu and Daikin are mostly sold through installers. In deep cold, the Fujitsu AOUG12LZAS1 keeps the most heat of the 12,000 BTU units we compared.
- What is the best DIY mini-split?
- The Klimaire DIY 12,000 BTU: 24 SEER2, cold-climate certified, pre-charged lines, $1,459 on October 17, 2026. For a 115-volt circuit, the Perfect Aire (22 SEER2, $1,719.99).
- What is the most efficient mini-split?
- The small ones. The highest certified rating is 35.1 SEER2 at 6,000 BTU, and the top rating falls to 27 at 24,000 BTU. So pick the most efficient unit at the size you need. The table above lists the leader for each size.
- What is the best mini-split for a cold climate?
- For a pro install, the Fujitsu H-Series AOUG12LZAS1 keeps 138% of its rated heat at 5°F with a COP of 2.32. Online, the Klimaire DIY is cold-climate certified with a COP of 2.1 at 5°F. Certified tests stop at 5°F, so for colder places check the maker's low-temperature spec.
- What is the best 12,000 BTU mini-split?
- DIY: Klimaire DIY (24 SEER2, $1,459). Lowest price with ENERGY STAR and cold-climate certification: Turbro Greenland 115V (23 SEER2, $649.99, pro install recommended). The highest certified rating at this size is 31.5 SEER2, from installer brands.
- What size mini-split do I need?
- Start with ENERGY STAR's sizing chart: 9,000 BTU for 350-400 sq ft, 12,000 for 450-550 sq ft, 18,000 for 700-1,000 sq ft. Add 10% for a very sunny room, 600 BTU for each regular occupant over two, and 4,000 BTU for a kitchen. A load calculation from an installer is the real answer.
- Is the MRCOOL DIY worth it?
- It is one of the few kits you can install without HVAC tools, and the 5th Gen is cold-climate certified (22 SEER2 at 12,000 BTU, 115V). You pay more for the kit: $1,719.99 vs $649.99 for a pro-install unit with similar ratings, but that one also needs an installer's fee. Whether DIY saves money depends on what a local pro charges. See our MRCOOL comparisons below.
How we did this
Method
How we picked the units and built the tables
Picks. We matched 43 Amazon mini-split listings to the exact outdoor + indoor pair they name in the AHRI Directory (read September 29, 2026) and re-read every listing on October 17, 2026 for price and stock. A listing counts as true DIY only when its own text says it ships with pre-charged quick-connect lines and needs no vacuum pump; 'easy DIY install' with 'professional installation recommended' counts as pro install.
Best DIY = the highest certified SEER2 among true-DIY, cold-climate-certified 12,000 BTU listings in stock. Best on 115 volts = the same rule for 115-volt units. Best value = the lowest price among in-stock 12,000 BTU listings that are both ENERGY STAR and cold-climate certified. Best for hard winters = among certified 12,000 BTU wall-mounted systems with COP of at least 2.0 at 5°F and at least 25 SEER2, the one whose 5°F heating output is the largest share of its 47°F rating.
Size table and brands. From our rebadge-collapsed copy of the AHRI and ENERGY STAR records (5,082 ductless systems, as of July 12, 2026). A size includes systems within 12% of the nominal BTU. Ratings above 45 SEER2 are treated as data errors and left out.
We don't test units in a lab. Every efficiency number is a certified rating, not a claim from a box or a review.
References
Sources
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