A cheap, light cooler for one person in a dry garage, porch or small room. Buy it for the low running cost, not for wide coverage.
Amazon $187The Hessaire MC18 is the better evaporative cooler overall, rated 3.2 to 2.7. The Hessaire MC18 leads on airflow, features and tank. The Hessaire DC18 costs $28.41 less ($158.59 vs $187).
For tailgating, camping or a job site where a tool battery is easier than an extension cord. In a garage with power, a bigger AC only cooler moves more air for the money.
Amazon $158.59Prices were last checked October 31, 2026 and are subject to change; the price and availability shown by the retailer at the time of purchase apply.
Which should you buy?
- Choose the Hessaire MC18 for airflow (1,300 CFM vs 900 CFM), features (rigid cooling pads, hose hookup vs rigid cooling pads) and tank (4.8 gal tank vs 2.8 gal tank).
Scores side by side
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every under 2,000 CFM evaporative cooler; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | Hessaire MC18 | Hessaire DC18 |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.2/5 | 2.7/5 |
| Value 30% | 69 $143.85 per 1,000 CFM ($187, 1,300 CFM) | 62 $176.21 per 1,000 CFM ($158.59, 900 CFM) |
| Airflow 25% | 67 1,300 CFM | 40 900 CFM |
| Tank 10% | 35 4.8 gal tank | 10 2.8 gal tank |
| Features 15% | 50 rigid cooling pads, hose hookup | 25 rigid cooling pads |
| Warranty 20% | 0 1-year warranty | 0 1-year warranty |
Specifications
| Hessaire MC18 | Hessaire DC18 | |
|---|---|---|
| Cooling | ||
| Airflow | 1,300 CFM | 900 CFM |
| Cooling area | 500 sq ft | 300 sq ft |
| Cooling pads | Rigid cellulose | Rigid cellulose |
| Tank | 4.8 gal | 2.8 gal |
| Hose hookup | Yes | No |
| Controls and build | ||
| Fan speeds | 2 | - |
| Oscillation | No | No |
| Remote | No | No |
| Power draw | 85 W | 55 W |
| Weight | 16 lb | 17.6 lb |
| Warranty | 1 year | 1 year |
