Portacool APEX 1200 vs Portacool APEX 2000

Last updated: October 31, 2026

The Portacool APEX 2000 is the better evaporative cooler overall, rated 4.1 to 4.0. The Portacool APEX 2000 leads on airflow. The Portacool APEX 1200 costs $1,024 less ($1,875 vs $2,899).

Portacool APEX 1200 vs Portacool APEX 2000

Prices 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?

Scores side by side

Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every 2,000 CFM and up evaporative cooler; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.

Factor weightPortacool APEX 2000Portacool APEX 1200
Overall rating4.1/54.0/5
Value 30%40 $322.11 per 1,000 CFM ($2,899, 9,000 CFM)43 $300 per 1,000 CFM ($1,875, 6,250 CFM)
Airflow 25%100 9,000 CFM83 6,250 CFM
Tank 10%100 45 gal tank100 40 gal tank
Features 15%50 rigid cooling pads, hose hookup50 rigid cooling pads, hose hookup
Warranty 20%100 3-year warranty100 3-year warranty

Specifications

Portacool APEX 2000Portacool APEX 1200
Cooling
Airflow9,000 CFM6,250 CFM
Cooling area4,000 sq ft2,800 sq ft
Cooling padsRigid celluloseRigid cellulose
Tank45 gal40 gal
Hose hookupYesYes
Controls and build
Fan speeds55
OscillationNoNo
RemoteNoNo
Weight191 lb134 lb
Warranty3 years3 years
Released2023-102023-10

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