BLU 12 Review | 44 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£490
  • Avg. price in US: ~$640
  • Cooling capacity: 12,000 BTU/h
  • Maximum room size: 30
  • Maximum noise level: 53 dB
  • Heating function: yes
  • Cooling Energy Efficiency Class: A

BLU 12 review. Compare 44 technical specifications and user reviews to see how this product ranks in the Portable Air Conditioners category and whether it is worth buying.

7.9

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of products in the Portable Air Conditioners category, based on technical analysis and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference for identifying the best products in the Portable Air Conditioners category.

Score components:

80.0%

7.7

Technical Score

20.0%

8.6

User score

Very good
7.7

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of technical performance for products in the Portable Air Conditioners category across these key areas: Performance, Features, Design.

When it matters: When you want to compare products in the Portable Air Conditioners category by technical performance, specifications, and available features.

Score components:

55.0%

8.0

Performance

30.0%

7.3

Features

15.0%

7.8

Design

Very good
8.6

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews with the total review volume for products in the Portable Air Conditioners category.

When it matters: When you want to know how products in the Portable Air Conditioners category perform in everyday use and how reliable owners find them over time.

Score components:

70.0%

8.8

User reviews

30.0%

8.1

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.4
(225)

(Reviews last updated: August 2026)

Excellent
  • 8.5
    Bedroom use

    Score components:

    35.0%

    10

    Maximum noise level

    25.0%

    4.0

    Night mode

    20.0%

    10

    Timer

    20.0%

    10

    Remote control

  • 7.8
    Large rooms

    Score components:

    40.0%

    10

    Cooling capacity

    30.0%

    5.4

    Maximum room size

    20.0%

    6.1

    Airflow (high speed)

    10.0%

    10

    Airflow direction control

  • 9.0
    Year-round use

    Score components:

    40.0%

    10

    Heating function

    30.0%

    ?

    Dehumidification capacity

    20.0%

    8.0

    Cooling energy efficiency class

    10.0%

    10

    Automatic fan speed

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Best prices in UK

Best rankings

?

Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The BLU 12 (BLU12HP) is a versatile 4-in-1 portable air conditioner that provides 12,000 BTU of cooling and heating power for rooms up to about 30 m². It combines cooling, heating, fan and dehumidifying modes with three fan speeds, a 24-hour timer, LED remote control and an eco-friendly R290 refrigerant. Its main advantages are year-round versatility, self-evaporating condensate handling and easy movement on multidirectional castors. The unit is fairly heavy at about 39.5 kg, needs an exhaust hose, can reach roughly 62–65 dB, and does not provide automatic swing for the air deflectors.

Technical Specifications of portable air conditioner BLU 12

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of technical performance for products in the Portable Air Conditioners category across these key areas: Performance, Features, Design.

When it matters: When you want to compare products in the Portable Air Conditioners category by technical performance, specifications, and available features.

Score components:

55.0%

8.0

Performance

30.0%

7.3

Features

15.0%

7.8

Design

7.7
BLU 12 has a technical score of 7.75 points, which is higher than 84.7% of products in this category.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews with the total review volume for products in the Portable Air Conditioners category.

When it matters: When you want to know how products in the Portable Air Conditioners category perform in everyday use and how reliable owners find them over time.

Score components:

70.0%

8.8

User reviews

30.0%

8.1

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.4
(225)

(Reviews last updated: August 2026)

8.6
BLU 12 has a user score of 8.6 points, which is higher than 90.5% of products in this category.
Popularity
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by products in the Portable Air Conditioners category.
When it matters: When you prefer products in the Portable Air Conditioners category that have been chosen and reviewed by many other buyers.
8.1
BLU 12 has a popularity of 8.1 points, which is higher than 72.1% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the overall score of products in the Portable Air Conditioners category with their prices.

When it matters: When you are comparing products in the Portable Air Conditioners category and want a good balance between quality and price.

Score components:

60.0%

7.9

Overall score

40.0%

6.1

Price

7.4
BLU 12 has a quality-to-price ratio of 7.4 points, which is higher than 76.8% of products in this category.
Cooling capacity
What it is: Cooling capacity is the amount of heat the air conditioner can remove per hour, measured in BTU/h.
When it matters: Higher capacity cools larger or warmer rooms more effectively, provided the unit is sized correctly.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 12,000 BTU/h

12,000 BTU/h
BLU 12 delivers 12000 BTU/h cooling capacity, which is higher than that of 71.3% of portable air conditioners and equal to that of 19.7% of portable air conditioners.
Rated input power
What it is: Rated input power is the electrical power the unit draws at its specified operating point, measured in watts.
When it matters: Lower rated input power reduces electrical demand, though cooling efficiency also depends on delivered capacity.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: Up to 1,200 W

?
Cooling Energy Efficiency Class
What it is: Cooling energy efficiency class summarizes the efficiency of the unit while cooling, from higher to lower letter grades.
When it matters: A higher cooling efficiency class indicates more cooling output for the electricity consumed.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: A or better

A
BLU 12 has cooling energy efficiency class A, which ranks lower than 10.7% of portable air conditioners and equal to 89.4% of portable air conditioners.
Heating energy efficiency class
What it is: Heating energy efficiency class summarizes energy efficiency when the unit operates in heating mode.
When it matters: A higher heating efficiency class matters when the portable air conditioner will also provide regular space heating.

Importance: LOW

Good value: A or better

A+
BLU 12 has heating energy efficiency class A+, which ranks higher than 50% of portable air conditioners and equal to 37.5% of portable air conditioners.
Number of speeds
What it is: The number of selectable fan speeds determines how finely airflow and noise can be adjusted.
When it matters: More speed settings make it easier to balance cooling intensity, sound, and comfort.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 3 speeds

3
BLU 12 offers 3 fan speeds, which is more than 36.8% of portable air conditioners and equal to 61.1% of portable air conditioners.
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Fan-only mode
What it is: Fan-only mode circulates room air without running the refrigeration cycle.
When it matters: This mode provides lower-power airflow when cooling is unnecessary.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: yes

yes
BLU 12 includes a fan-only mode. 99.5% of portable air conditioners support this mode.
Airflow direction control
What it is: Airflow direction control describes whether outlet air can be aimed automatically, manually, or not at all.
When it matters: Better directional control spreads conditioned air more evenly without repositioning the unit.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: automatic

automatic
BLU 12 provides automatic airflow direction control, which ranks higher than 47.3% of portable air conditioners and equal to 52.7% of portable air conditioners.
Night mode
What it is: Night mode adjusts operation for sleeping hours, typically reducing sound, light, or abrupt temperature changes.
When it matters: Night mode is useful when the unit runs in a bedroom or other light- and noise-sensitive space.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: yes

no
BLU 12 does not include a dedicated night mode. 74.3% of portable air conditioners offer night mode.
Timer
What it is: A timer lets the unit start, stop, or change operation after a scheduled interval.
When it matters: Timer control helps cool a room before use and avoids running the unit longer than necessary.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: yes

yes
BLU 12 includes a built-in timer. 99.5% of portable air conditioners feature a timer.
Maximum timer duration
What it is: Maximum timer duration is the longest interval that can be scheduled before automatic operation changes.
When it matters: A longer timer window offers more flexibility for overnight use and advance scheduling.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 24 hours

24 hours
BLU 12 supports a timer of up to 24 hours, which is longer than that of 7.4% of portable air conditioners and equal to that of 92.6% of portable air conditioners.
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Color
What it is: Color describes the main exterior finish of the portable air conditioner.
When it matters: Finish color matters when the unit will remain visible and should suit the room decor.

Importance: LOW

white
Display
What it is: A display shows settings such as target temperature, operating mode, or timer status on the unit.
When it matters: A display makes current settings easier to check without opening an app or using the remote.

Importance: LOW

Good value: yes

yes
BLU 12 includes an integrated display. 99.5% of portable air conditioners feature a display.
Control type
What it is: Control type identifies whether settings are entered through touch controls, physical buttons, or both.
When it matters: The interface style affects tactile feedback, cleaning, accessibility, and ease of use.

Importance: LOW

touch
Remote control
What it is: A remote control operates core functions from across the room without touching the unit.
When it matters: Remote access is convenient when the air conditioner is beside a window, across the room, or used from bed.

Importance: LOW

Good value: yes

yes
BLU 12 comes with a remote control. 99% of portable air conditioners include a remote.
Handles
What it is: Integrated handles provide secure grip points for moving or repositioning the unit.
When it matters: Handles reduce awkward lifting when the air conditioner is moved between rooms or stored.

Importance: LOW

Good value: yes

yes
BLU 12 includes built-in handles for easier carrying. 99.5% of portable air conditioners feature handles.
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BLU 12 vs the average portable air conditioner

  • 3000 BTU/h higher cooling capacity
    BLU 12 delivers higher cooling capacity than the average portable air conditioner (12000 BTU/h vs 9000 BTU/h).
    What it is: Cooling capacity is the amount of heat the air conditioner can remove per hour, measured in BTU/h.
    When it matters: Higher capacity cools larger or warmer rooms more effectively, provided the unit is sized correctly.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: At least 12,000 BTU/h

    BLU 12 delivers higher cooling capacity than the average portable air conditioner (12000 BTU/h vs 9000 BTU/h).12000 BTU/h vs 9000 BTU/h
  • 11 dB quieter at maximum output
    BLU 12 is quieter at maximum output than the average portable air conditioner (53 dB vs 64 dB).
    What it is: Maximum noise level is the loudest stated sound output, usually produced at full cooling or fan speed.
    When it matters: Lower maximum noise makes intensive cooling less disruptive during work, conversation, or sleep.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: Up to 60 dB

    BLU 12 is quieter at maximum output than the average portable air conditioner (53 dB vs 64 dB).53 dB vs 64 dB
  • Provides heating
    BLU 12 provides heating, the average portable air conditioner does not.
    What it is: A heating function reverses or supplements normal operation to warm the room.
    When it matters: Heating extends seasonal usefulness and can replace a separate spot heater in mild weather.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: yes

    BLU 12 provides heating, the average portable air conditioner does not.
  • 0.1 m longer exhaust hose
    BLU 12 has a longer exhaust hose than the average portable air conditioner (1.6 m vs 1.5 m).
    What it is: Exhaust hose length is the maximum usable distance between the unit and its window vent connection.
    When it matters: A longer hose provides more placement flexibility when the window is not directly beside the unit.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: At least 1.5 m

    BLU 12 has a longer exhaust hose than the average portable air conditioner (1.6 m vs 1.5 m).1.6 m vs 1.5 m
  • 50 m³/h higher low-speed airflow
    BLU 12 delivers higher low-speed airflow than the average portable air conditioner (300 m³/h vs 250 m³/h).
    What it is: Low-speed airflow is the volume of air moved per hour at the quietest or lowest fan setting.
    When it matters: Higher low-speed airflow maintains stronger circulation when reduced noise is preferred.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: At least 250 m³/h

    BLU 12 delivers higher low-speed airflow than the average portable air conditioner (300 m³/h vs 250 m³/h).300 m³/h vs 250 m³/h
  • 0.07 m longer power cord
    BLU 12 has a longer power cord than the average portable air conditioner (1.9 m vs 1.8 m).
    What it is: Power cord length is the distance the unit can reach from a wall outlet without an extension lead.
    When it matters: A longer cord makes safe placement easier when suitable outlets are limited.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: At least 1.8 m

    BLU 12 has a longer power cord than the average portable air conditioner (1.9 m vs 1.8 m).1.87 m vs 1.8 m
  • 10 m³/h higher high-speed airflow
    BLU 12 delivers higher high-speed airflow than the average portable air conditioner (360 m³/h vs 350 m³/h).
    What it is: High-speed airflow is the maximum volume of air the fan can move per hour.
    When it matters: Higher maximum airflow circulates cooled air through the room more quickly.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: At least 350 m³/h

    BLU 12 delivers higher high-speed airflow than the average portable air conditioner (360 m³/h vs 350 m³/h).360 m³/h vs 350 m³/h
  • 2 dB quieter minimum operation
    BLU 12 is quieter at minimum output than the average portable air conditioner (49 dB vs 51 dB).
    What it is: Minimum noise level is the quietest stated sound output, normally reached at a reduced fan setting.
    When it matters: Lower minimum noise is valuable in bedrooms, home offices, and other quiet spaces.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: Up to 50 dB

    BLU 12 is quieter at minimum output than the average portable air conditioner (49 dB vs 51 dB).49 dB vs 51 dB
  • 3000 BTU/h higher cooling capacity
    BLU 12 delivers higher cooling capacity than the average portable air conditioner (12000 BTU/h vs 9000 BTU/h).
  • 11 dB quieter at maximum output
    BLU 12 is quieter at maximum output than the average portable air conditioner (53 dB vs 64 dB).
  • 50 m³/h higher low-speed airflow
    BLU 12 delivers higher low-speed airflow than the average portable air conditioner (300 m³/h vs 250 m³/h).
  • 10 m³/h higher high-speed airflow
    BLU 12 delivers higher high-speed airflow than the average portable air conditioner (360 m³/h vs 350 m³/h).
  • 2 dB quieter minimum operation
    BLU 12 is quieter at minimum output than the average portable air conditioner (49 dB vs 51 dB).
  • Provides heating
    BLU 12 provides heating, the average portable air conditioner does not.
  • 0.1 m longer exhaust hose
    BLU 12 has a longer exhaust hose than the average portable air conditioner (1.6 m vs 1.5 m).
  • 0.07 m longer power cord
    BLU 12 has a longer power cord than the average portable air conditioner (1.9 m vs 1.8 m).
  • 2 °C lower maximum temperature
    BLU 12 has a lower maximum temperature setting than the average portable air conditioner (30 °C vs 32 °C).
  • No night mode
    BLU 12 does not include a night mode, while the average portable air conditioner does.
  • 52.9% higher weight
    BLU 12 is heavier than the average portable air conditioner (39 kg vs 25.5 kg).
  • 11 cm taller cabinet
    BLU 12 is taller than the average portable air conditioner (82 cm vs 71 cm).
  • 4 cm deeper cabinet
    BLU 12 is deeper than the average portable air conditioner (39.5 cm vs 35.5 cm).
  • 2.5 cm wider cabinet
    BLU 12 is wider than the average portable air conditioner (40.5 cm vs 38 cm).
  • 27.8% larger external volume
    BLU 12 has a larger external volume than the average portable air conditioner (131179.5 cm³ vs 102623.407656 cm³).
  • No night mode
    BLU 12 does not include a night mode, while the average portable air conditioner does.
    What it is: Night mode adjusts operation for sleeping hours, typically reducing sound, light, or abrupt temperature changes.
    When it matters: Night mode is useful when the unit runs in a bedroom or other light- and noise-sensitive space.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: yes

    BLU 12 does not include a night mode, while the average portable air conditioner does.
  • 52.9% higher weight
    BLU 12 is heavier than the average portable air conditioner (39 kg vs 25.5 kg).
    What it is: Weight is the mass of the portable air conditioner before installation accessories are attached.
    When it matters: A lighter unit is easier to carry, reposition, and move between floors.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: Up to 25 kg

    BLU 12 is heavier than the average portable air conditioner (39 kg vs 25.5 kg).39 kg vs 25.5 kg
  • 2 °C lower maximum temperature
    BLU 12 has a lower maximum temperature setting than the average portable air conditioner (30 °C vs 32 °C).
    What it is: Maximum set temperature is the highest thermostat target available in the unit controls.
    When it matters: A higher maximum setting provides a broader adjustment range, especially on models with heating.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: At least 30 °C

    BLU 12 has a lower maximum temperature setting than the average portable air conditioner (30 °C vs 32 °C).30 °C vs 32 °C
  • 11 cm taller cabinet
    BLU 12 is taller than the average portable air conditioner (82 cm vs 71 cm).
    What it is: Height is the vertical dimension of the portable air conditioner.
    When it matters: A shorter cabinet fits more easily below windows, shelves, and other height restrictions.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: Up to 70 cm

    BLU 12 is taller than the average portable air conditioner (82 cm vs 71 cm).82 cm vs 71 cm
  • 4 cm deeper cabinet
    BLU 12 is deeper than the average portable air conditioner (39.5 cm vs 35.5 cm).
    What it is: Depth is the front-to-back cabinet dimension of the portable air conditioner.
    When it matters: A shallower unit protrudes less into the room and leaves more usable floor space.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: Up to 35 cm

    BLU 12 is deeper than the average portable air conditioner (39.5 cm vs 35.5 cm).39.5 cm vs 35.5 cm
  • 40% more expensive
    BLU 12 is more expensive than the average portable air conditioner (£490 vs £350).
    BLU 12 is more expensive than the average portable air conditioner (£490 vs £350).£490 vs £350
  • 2.5 cm wider cabinet
    BLU 12 is wider than the average portable air conditioner (40.5 cm vs 38 cm).
    What it is: Width is the side-to-side cabinet dimension of the portable air conditioner.
    When it matters: A narrower unit occupies less wall and floor space beside a window.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: Up to 35 cm

    BLU 12 is wider than the average portable air conditioner (40.5 cm vs 38 cm).40.5 cm vs 38 cm
  • 27.8% larger external volume
    BLU 12 has a larger external volume than the average portable air conditioner (131179.5 cm³ vs 102623.407656 cm³).
    What it is: The exterior physical volume (bulk footprint) occupied by the portable air conditioner chassis, calculated from its height, width, and depth.
    When it matters: Crucial for assessing room floor intrusion and determining whether the appliance can be stored away easily in closets or under stairs off-season.

    Importance: LOW

    BLU 12 has a larger external volume than the average portable air conditioner (131179.5 cm³ vs 102623.407656 cm³).131179.5 cm³ vs 102623.407656 cm³

Graphic comparison of BLU 12 and other products in the Portable Air Conditioners category

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

(Reviews last updated: August 2026)

What customers like about BLU 12?

  • Powerful 12,000 BTU cooling that chills rooms and offices very quickly
  • Excellent value for money compared to other models
  • Easy to install and get running in about 15 minutes
  • Simple to operate with straightforward default settings
  • Omnidirectional wheels make it easy to move between rooms
  • Comes with a useful window kit/sheet included for easy venting
  • Quiet operation compared to some competing portable AC units
  • Requires very little ongoing maintenance

What customers dislike about BLU 12?

  • The included hot air exhaust pipe is too short
  • The electrical power cable could be longer
  • The unit is physically heavy to lift or carry up stairs
  • Operation produces noticeable noise (similar to a running fridge or loud fan)
  • Lacks an automatic air swing function for moving louvers

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