Window vs Split Type Aircon: Which Uses Less Electricity? (Verified Pairs)

The most efficient aircons we could verify are split types: TCL’s P7 inverter splits have label CSPFs of 6.74 to 7.11, higher than any verified window unit. But a good inverter window unit can beat an average split. The Kolin KA-100GQAIINV32 1HP window (CSPF 5.60, 740 W) uses fewer watts and has a higher CSPF than the verified Midea and Fujidenzo 1HP splits. Compare the models, not the type.

How we compared

We paired verified models of the same horsepower and compared CSPF (cooling per kWh over a season, from the DOE label “Energy Efficiency Rating”) and rated power input (watts at full load). Where possible we also compared rated cooling capacity, because a unit that uses fewer watts but cools less isn’t a fair win.

0.7HP: the window unit wins

The window unit uses 20 W less, cools more and has the higher CSPF. At 0.7HP, there’s no efficiency reason to pay extra for a split.

1HP: the best split wins, but not every split

*Retailer-listed CSPF; the 1HP FBI’s CSPF is from TCL’s spec sheet.

Look at TCL’s own line-up. The P7 and FBI splits clearly beat TCL’s UB2 and UJE2 windows. But TCL’s KEI2 split (4.90) is no better than its UJE2 window (4.88). And the Kolin window ranks above three of the five splits.

1.5HP: Samsung’s pair favours the split

Samsung’s own pair is the cleanest comparison: the split uses 140 W less at full load and gives more cooling (3.52 vs 3.3 kW). TCL shows the same pattern: the P7 split beats the UB2 window on every number. The Kolin window, though, is almost level with the Samsung split, with the same 3.89 kW capacity as the P7.

Why splits often come out ahead

• More splits are inverters. CLASP’s survey of the Philippine market found about 78% of split models were inverters, while about 87% of window models were fixed-speed. An average split on the shelf is more likely to be an inverter than an average window unit.
• The highest CSPFs we found are all splits. Every verified unit with CSPF above 6 is a TCL inverter split (P7 or FBI).

What else to weigh

• Installation. A split needs refrigerant piping between indoor and outdoor units, so a licensed technician or the brand’s authorised installer should fit it. A window unit needs a properly supported wall or window opening.
• Price. Prices change daily, so check today’s price for the exact models. A cheaper window unit with a high CSPF may cost less overall than a split with an average CSPF.
• Hours of use. The more hours you run the aircon, the more a higher CSPF pays off. Estimate your own cost with the aircon electricity cost calculator, using your rate from our electricity rates page.

Where to buy the top pick of each type

• Top split, 1HP: TCL TAC-11CSD/P7: Lazada · Shopee (TCL Official Store)
• Top split, 1.5HP: TCL TAC-14CSD/P7 (same series listing): Lazada · Shopee
• Top window, 1HP: Kolin KA-100GQAIINV32: Lazada (Kolin)
• Top window, 1.5HP: Kolin KA-150GQAIINV32: Lazada (Kolin)
• Top window, 0.7HP: iFFALCON IFAC-07CWI/UL: Lazada · Shopee (TCL Official Store)
• Samsung 1.5HP split AR60H13D1FWNTC: Shopee (Samsung AI Home)

Bottom line

If you want the lowest possible electricity use and can install a split, the TCL P7 splits are the most efficient verified aircons. If a window unit suits your home better, a high-CSPF inverter window such as the Kolin Quad AI is as efficient as many splits. Full rankings: 1HP window, 1HP split, 1.5HP window, 1.5HP split.