Last year, Windmill announced an exciting addition to its line of sleek air conditioning units — the upgraded Windmill 3.0, featuring innovative WhisperTech and interchangeable color grills. We were able to try out the new unit hands-on, and we’re happy to report that it offers all the features of the original, plus new features that offer customizable design and quieter fans.
Our editors have been fans of Windmill for a while, and the original unit earned high marks in our testing of the best window air conditioner. Last summer I kicked my old AC unit to the curb in favor of the streamlined Windmill, and I couldn’t be more pleased. Anyone who wants to prioritize interior aesthetics without sacrificing comfort will appreciate the Windmill — plus, the sustainable design offers intuitive remote controls, a dual-filtration system and easier installation than the competition.
The upgraded Windmill 3.0 air conditioner offers the same sleek look and sustainable design with new WhisperTech technology.
When the brand announced the latest edition, I knew I had to get my hands on one to see how it compares to my older unit. Spoiler alert: It’s worth the splurge. With hot summer days ahead, now’s the time to invest in a unit that’ll actually keep you cool all season. If you’re considering this upgrade, read on for everything you need to know.
The Windmill 3.0 still offers all the features you know and love
Last year, I praised the Windmill’s “minimalist, elegant” design that integrates seamlessly into any space. Intuitive controls and a minimalist display that fades after 60 seconds eliminate distracting visual clutter. And while the sleek look certainly sets Windmill apart from alternatives, it’s not the only unique feature.
If you’re setting up the unit yourself, you’ll find detailed instructions and practically everything you need included in the box. If you’d rather not DIY it, Windmill makes it easy to outsource to Taskrabbit.
Even if local air quality is a concern, you’ll breathe easy indoors, thanks to the dual-filtration system, which features an antimicrobial-protected mesh filter to block dust and larger air particles as well as a second filter with activated carbon that helps protect against odors, fumes and VOCs.
While remote control isn’t exclusive to Windmill ACs, it’s worth mentioning that the unit’s Wi-Fi connection and remote control are a true game changer, whether you don’t want to move from a comfortable position in bed or want to return to a perfectly chilled apartment (without wasting energy running the unit all day long).
I’m generally skeptical of smart home evangelism — in my view, the simpler the better — but the Wi-Fi-enabled Windmill is the exception. Rather than languishing unused on my home screen, the app is actually a breeze to set up and so convenient that I use it daily. Choose your desired mode (Fan, Cool or Eco) and fan speed (Auto, Low, Medium or High), and your room will be cool in just a few minutes.
Speaking of sustainability, Windmill offers 35% more energy efficiency than competitors with dual-air intake for better air flow and a faster cooling process. Plus, the brand’s EcoRewards pays customers back for smart energy use.
Plus, new innovative WhisperTech
As you can see, the Windmill 3.0 maintains all the features you know and love from the older units. And though the update is visually indistinguishable from its predecessors, it’s internally outfitted with WhisperTech, an energy-efficient core that combines advanced inverter technology with an ultra-quiet fan.
My older Windmill is already ultra quiet, unlike others I’ve had in the past that roar over the sound of the TV. So I was surprised to hear the 3.0 run at an even lower volume, without any of the shuddering or rattling you might associate with window units.
If you’re a light sleeper, you’ll love the WhisperTech — even at its highest setting, it hums as lightly as a white noise machine at low volume. You might even forget it’s on.
Choose from interchangeable color grills
The Windmill is famous for its streamlined, minimalist look — but that doesn’t mean you can’t have some fun with a pop of color. Simply pop off the magnetic front panel and replace it with a colorful grill, available in four colors. Go for an ombre sunset look or cool-toned hue — whatever matches your decor best. Plus, the color grills are compatible with older units too.
Sizing options
As of last month, the Windmill AC is available in three sizes. You’ll want to measure the square footage of your room to determine the right size: Windmill advises the small 6k BTU unit for rooms up to 250 square feet, the medium 8k BTU unit for rooms up to 350 square feet and the large 10k BTU unit for rooms up to 450 square feet. Keep in mind that only the medium and large sizes are available with WhisperTech.
Bottom line
Windmill’s latest AC unit preserves everything we expect from the brand, from a sleek design to energy efficiency to intuitive remote control. Even though the new changes are slight, the Windmill 3.0 is a solid upgrade, especially if volume is a concern or you’re looking to cool a large room. Plus, you can swap out the plain white panels for a fun color, making the unit even more of a design-forward appliance.