Again, whether a portable AC is worth buying depends on what you’re looking for. If you live somewhere that gets oppressively hot and your options are no AC at all or a portable model, then yes, it’s worth buying. If you’re just looking for something to tide you over until, say, your window unit is fixed or you already have central air installed, then probably not. Portable ACs are not inexpensive (though there are relatively cheap portable air conditioner options for the smallest spaces). They’re best for people looking to cool down relatively small spaces and get some relief in an otherwise airless room. Think of it this way: If you use a fan and that seems to do the trick, then you probably don’t need to drop that much cash on a portable AC.