Windmill vs. LG: The Ultimate Smart AC Face-Off

Brought to you in collaboration with Windmill. We only partner with brands that reflect our values and standards, ensuring content that benefits you.

As summer approaches, a reliable window AC isn’t just a luxury, it’s essential. Today we’re comparing two leading smart cooling solutions to help you make the right choice for your home.

Quick Verdict

Windmill takes the crown with superior design, user-friendly installation, and better environmental credentials, though LG offers reliable performance from an established brand.

Windmill 8K BTU

LG LW8017ERSM 8,000 BTU

Best For

Design-conscious buyers, simplified, pre-assembled installation

Budget-conscious consumers, LG ecosystem users

Price

$369

$319

Stand Out Feature

Upward airflow design

ThinQ® Smart Technology

Our Rating

★★★★★

★★★★☆

Cooling Performance

This is why you’re buying an AC. Here’s how they compare.

Coverage & Power

• Windmill: Cools up to 350 sq. ft. (8,000 BTU)

• LG: Cools up to 340 sq. ft. (8,000 BTU)

Cooling Technology

• Windmill: Standard compressor with innovative upward airflow distribution

• LG: Standard compressor with traditional forward airflow

Moisture Removal

• Windmill: 2.68 pints per hour

• LG: 2.2 pints per hour

“I love it! Especially that the air is blown upwards, so I don’t always catch a chill when using it!”
– Abi D., Verified Windmill customer

The Windmill AC Upward Airflow

Design & User Experience

Windmill reimagines what an AC can look like. LG keeps it conventional.

Aesthetics

• Windmill: Sleek minimalist design with rounded edges and hidden controls

• LG: Conventional appearance with visible vents and standard control panel

Night Experience

• Windmill: Auto-dimming display, starts at 50 dBA

• LG: Standard display, operates at 54-60 dBA

Installation

• Windmill: Tool-free installation with innovative frame system

• LG: Standard installation requiring typical hardware assembly

The Windmill AC

LG LW8017ERSM

Smart Features

Both offer app control and voice assistant integration.

Mobile App?

• Windmill App: Clean, intuitive interface focused on essential functions

• LG ThinQ: Feature-rich platform connecting to broader LG ecosystem

Voice Control

• Both: Support Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant

• Common commands: Power on/off, temperature adjustment, mode switching

> Pro Tip: Both units allow you to schedule cooling times to reduce energy consumption when you’re away.

Windmill App

LG ThinQ® App

Environmental Impact

Environmental consciousness varies between models.

Feature

Windmill 8K BTU

LG LW8017ERSM 8,000 BTU

Refrigerant

R32 (GWP: 675)

R32 (GWP: 675)

Carbon Offset

Yes (shipping neutral)

Corporate sustainability program

Energy Star

Yes

Yes

Packaging

Recyclable Materials

Standard Packaging

Value & Long-Term Cost

Comparing initial investment and running costs.

Purchase Price

• Windmill: $369

• LG: $319

Installation Costs

• Windmill: Patent-pending, pre-assembled installation kit saves time and installer costs.

• LG: Additional installation support may be required.

Long-Term Value

• Both: No material differences in operating costs between the two options

What Users Love & Dislike

Windmill

Pros

✅ Stylish, modern design
✅ Simplified installation process
✅ Comfortable upward airflow distribution
✅ Avg 4.8★ customer rating

Cons

❌ Newer company
❌ Limited retail availability
❌ Higher initial cost

LGLW8017ERSM

Pros

✅ Established brand
✅ Wide service network
✅ Lower initial cost

Cons

❌ More conventional appearance
❌ Direct airflow can feel uncomfortable
❌ Standard installation complexity
❌ Avg 4.4★ customer rating

The Bottom Line

The Windmill 8K BTU delivers an excellent balance of performance and design innovation. Its upward airflow technology provides more comfortable cooling while its sleek aesthetics blend seamlessly into modern homes. For most users seeking a balance of style, function, and user-friendliness, the Windmill is our recommended choice.

The LG LW8017ERSM 8,000 BTU Smart Window AC offers reliable performance from a trusted brand with a slightly lower price point. For those prioritizing established reliability and broader retail availability, this LG model presents a solid alternative.

Our Recommendation:

Choose Windmill for superior design and user experience.

Windmill

The Windmill AC

$369 $389

Jenica Weyand

Jenica "Hen" Weyand is a seasoned writer and creative professional with over 20 years of experience in brand storytelling, art, fashion, trends, and lifestyle. With a background in theater, design, and brand experience, Jenica continues to shape conversations around art, style, and modern living.

Jenica "Hen" Weyand is a seasoned writer and creative professional with over 20 years of experience in brand storytelling, art, fashion, trends, and lifestyle. With a background in theater, design, and brand experience, Jenica continues to shape conversations around art, style, and modern living.