Best Dehumidifiers Under $300 in 2026: 15 Picks Compared

Updated on Oct 24, 2026

The AEOCKY 6000Sq.Ft Commercial Dehumidifier takes the top spot under $300 for its Energy Star Most Efficient 2024 label and coverage of over 5,000 square feet, the largest area among our picks. We compared 15 dehumidifiers based on the stated specifications in the product catalog, including capacity, coverage area, and features such as built-in pumps and Energy Star certification.

14 picks from 34 dehumidifiers that match this guide with a price we can quote today, made by 32 makers. Prices below are live, each shown with the time it was read.

Quick list

Which one is right for you?

• For a wet basement: If you have a damp basement that needs constant dehumidification, choose a model rated for over 3,000 square feet with a drain hose or pump so you don't have to empty the bucket. See pick 1
• For large spaces with a pump: If you need to drain water upward to a sink or window, choose a model with a built-in pump like the Midea Cube 50 Pint with Pump, which covers up to 4,500 square feet. See pick 2

All 14 picks in detail

1 Best overall

AEOCKY 6000Sq.Ft Commercial Dehumidifier

Pints per day

100 to 149 pints

Area (sq ft)

Over 5,000 sq ft

Whole house

Yes

Drain hose included

Yes

Commercial or industrial

Yes

For basements

Yes

For crawl spaces

Yes

Energy Star

Yes

$289.99 (as of 10/24/2026 11:25 PDT - Details)

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This AEOCKY unit is Energy Star Most Efficient 2024 and covers over 5,000 square feet, the largest area of any pick. It is a commercial-grade unit, making it suitable for basements, garages, and large open spaces.

Pros

• Energy Star Most Efficient 2024 certified
• Covers over 5,000 sq ft, the most of any pick
• Commercial-grade construction
• Listed for use in commercial spaces

Cons

• No stated capacity in pints per day
• No drain hose or pump specified
• May be larger and noisier than residential models

Good fit if

• For very large areas such as a finished basement or workshop
• For users who prioritize energy efficiency and have a high moisture load

Skip if

• If you need a compact unit for a small room
• If you require a built-in pump for draining to a higher location

Verdict: The best choice for whole-house or large-space dehumidification under $300, especially if energy efficiency is a priority.

2 Best with pump

Midea Cube 50 Pint Dehumidifier with Pump

Pints per day

50 to 99 pints

Area (sq ft)

3,001 to 5,000 sq ft

Pump included

Yes

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This Midea Cube includes a built-in pump, allowing continuous drainage to a sink or window. It covers up to 4,500 square feet with a 50-pint capacity, making it a versatile pick for large basements.

Pros

• Built-in pump for continuous drainage
• 50-pint capacity for large spaces
• Covers up to 4,500 sq ft
• Smart control via app or voice

Cons

• Higher price than similar models without a pump
• Pump adds complexity and potential maintenance
• Not Energy Star certified according to the listing

Good fit if

• For basements where draining the bucket is inconvenient
• For users who want to automate drainage and use smart controls

Skip if

• If you can easily empty a bucket manually
• If you need Energy Star certification for rebates or efficiency

Verdict: A practical choice for large spaces where continuous drainage is essential, with the convenience of a pump and smart features.

3 Best for high capacity

Waykar 120 Pints 6000 Sq. Ft 2025 Energy Star Dehumidifier for Basement

Pints per day

100 to 149 pints

Area (sq ft)

Over 5,000 sq ft

Drain hose included

Yes

For basements

Yes

Energy Star

Yes

$289.99 (as of 10/24/2026 01:53 PDT - Details)

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With a 120-pint capacity and coverage of over 6,000 square feet, this Waykar is the highest-capacity pick in our list. It is Energy Star 2025 certified and designed for basement use, making it ideal for very damp, large areas.

Pros

• 120-pint capacity, the highest in this list
• Covers over 6,000 sq ft
• Energy Star 2025 certified
• Designed for basement use

Cons

• Heavy and large, not portable
• No pump, so you must use the bucket or a drain hose (not specified)
• May be overkill for smaller spaces

Good fit if

• For very wet basements or large open areas
• For users who need maximum moisture removal in a short time

Skip if

• If you only need to dehumidify a small room
• If you have limited floor space

Verdict: The go-to option for extreme dampness in large areas, offering the most capacity available under $300.

4 Best from an established brand

Frigidaire 50 Pint Dehumidifier for Basement & Large Rooms

Pints per day

50 to 99 pints

For basements

Yes

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Frigidaire is a well-known appliance brand, and this 50-pint model is designed for basements and large rooms. It offers a solid capacity at a reasonable price, and the brand's reputation adds confidence.

Pros

• Well-known and trusted brand
• 50-pint capacity for large rooms
• Specifically designed for basement use
• No pump or extra features to maintain

Cons

• Not Energy Star certified according to the listing
• No pump, so manual bucket emptying is required
• No area specification provided by the seller

Good fit if

• For users who prefer established appliance brands
• For basement or large room dehumidification with a simple setup

Skip if

• If you need a pump or smart controls
• If you require Energy Star certification for efficiency

Verdict: A dependable choice from a reputable brand for standard basement dehumidification needs.

5 Best for very large spaces

hOmeLabs Dehumidifier 7

Pints per day

50 to 99 pints

Area (sq ft)

Over 5,000 sq ft

Pump included

Yes

For basements

Yes

For bedrooms and bathrooms

Yes

Wi-Fi or app

Yes

$309.99 (as of 10/24/2026 14:41 PDT - Details)

Outside this guide's budget at today's price.

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This hOmeLabs unit covers up to 7,500 square feet and has a 50-pint capacity (up to 120 pints at 95°F, 90% RH). The built-in pump allows continuous drainage, making it suitable for expansive basements or industrial-like spaces.

Pros

• Covers up to 7,500 sq ft, the largest area in this list
• Built-in pump for continuous drainage
• High capacity at high temperature and humidity (120 pints max)
• Suitable for large basements and commercial spaces

Cons

• Pump may add noise and maintenance
• Not Energy Star certified
• Large and heavy unit

Good fit if

• For very large basements, warehouses, or workshops
• For users who need continuous drainage without manual emptying

Skip if

• If you have a small or medium room
• If you prefer a quieter, more compact unit

Verdict: The best option for extremely large areas, with a pump and high maximum capacity for humid conditions.

6 Best for basement with pump

GE Dehumidifier with Pump & Hose

Pints per day

50 to 99 pints

Area (sq ft)

3,001 to 5,000 sq ft

Pump included

Yes

Drain hose included

Yes

For basements

Yes

$282.00 (as of 10/24/2026 13:37 PDT - Details)

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GE's 50-pint model includes a pump and hose for automatic drainage, and is specifically designed for basements. It covers up to 5,000 square feet, making it a strong contender for large below-grade spaces.

Pros

• Built-in pump and hose for automatic drainage
• Covers up to 5,000 sq ft
• Designed for basement use
• GE is a reputable brand

Cons

• Higher price than similar models without a pump
• Not Energy Star certified
• Pump adds complexity

Good fit if

• For basements with high humidity that need continuous operation
• For users who want a reliable brand with a pump

Skip if

• If you can manually empty a bucket to save money
• If you need Energy Star certification

Verdict: A reliable, feature-rich choice for basement dehumidification with the convenience of a pump.

7 Best for medium rooms with drain hose

36 Pints/D, 2

Pints per day

Under 50 pints

Area (sq ft)

1,501 to 3,000 sq ft

Drain hose included

Yes

For basements

Yes

For bedrooms and bathrooms

Yes

$239.99 (as of 10/24/2026 11:04 PDT - Details)

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This VEAGASO unit is rated for 2,800 square feet with a 36-pint capacity, and it includes a drain hose for continuous operation. It is a compact and affordable option for medium-sized basements or large rooms.

Pros

• Includes drain hose for continuous drainage
• Compact 36-pint capacity for medium rooms
• Covers up to 2,800 sq ft
• Lower price point

Cons

• No Energy Star certification
• Smaller capacity may not suffice for very wet areas
• Brand less established than others

Good fit if

• For medium-sized basements or large bedrooms
• For users who want a drain hose and a budget-friendly price

Skip if

• If you need more than 36 pints per day
• If you prefer a well-known brand

Verdict: A practical, affordable choice for medium spaces with the convenience of a drain hose.

8 Best quiet operation

Pro Breeze 50 Pint Dehumidifier for Basement Bedroom and Bathroom

$239.99 (as of 10/24/2026 01:02 PDT - Details)

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Pro Breeze markets this 50-pint unit as quiet, making it suitable for bedrooms and bathrooms. It covers 3,500 to 4,500 square feet, and the lack of a pump reduces noise and complexity.

Pros

• Marketed as quiet, suitable for bedrooms
• 50-pint capacity for large rooms
• Covers 3,500-4,500 sq ft
• No pump to maintain

Cons

• Sound level is not stated by the seller.
• Not Energy Star certified
• No drain hose or pump, so bucket must be emptied

Good fit if

• For bedrooms, bathrooms, or living areas where noise is a concern
• For users who don't need continuous drainage

Skip if

• If you need a pump for automatic draining
• If you require Energy Star certification

Verdict: A good choice for interior living spaces where quiet operation is a priority.

9 Best smart features

LG PuriCare 50-Pint WiFi Dehumidifier

Pints per day

50 to 99 pints

Drain hose included

Yes

For basements

Yes

Wi-Fi or app

Yes

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LG's PuriCare 50-pint unit offers Wi-Fi connectivity and the LG ThinQ app for remote control and monitoring. This is the only pick with smart features, and it covers a large area with a solid capacity.

Pros

• Wi-Fi and LG ThinQ app for remote control
• 50-pint capacity
• Suitable for large rooms (area not specified but standard for 50-pint)
• LG brand reputation

Cons

• No stated area coverage by the seller
• Not Energy Star certified in this listing
• Smart features may require setup and an account

Good fit if

• For tech-savvy users who want to monitor humidity from their phone
• For large rooms or apartments where smart control is convenient

Skip if

• If you prefer a simple, non-smart unit
• If you need a pump or drain hose

Verdict: The best choice for smart home integration, offering remote control and monitoring via Wi-Fi.

10 Best for small to medium rooms

Whirlpool 25 Pint Energy Star Certified Dehumidifier in White

Pints per day

Under 50 pints

For bedrooms and bathrooms

Yes

Energy Star

Yes

$229.99 (as of 10/24/2026 01:55 PDT - Details)

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This Whirlpool is Energy Star certified and has a 25-pint capacity, making it efficient for smaller spaces. It is the most compact pick in this list, suitable for bedrooms, bathrooms, or small basements.

Pros

• Energy Star certified for efficiency
• Compact 25-pint capacity, ideal for small rooms
• Whirlpool brand trust
• Lower price point

Cons

• Smaller capacity may not handle large or very wet areas
• No pump or drain hose specified
• Area coverage not stated by the seller

Good fit if

• For small bedrooms, bathrooms, or closets
• For users who want to save energy and money

Skip if

• If you need to dehumidify a large area
• If you require continuous drainage

Verdict: A compact and efficient option for small spaces, with Energy Star certification for low operating costs.

11 Best Energy Star for large spaces

AEOCKY 5500 Sq.Ft Energy Star Most Efficient 2025 Dehumidifier Max

Pints per day

50 to 99 pints

Area (sq ft)

Over 5,000 sq ft

Drain hose included

Yes

For basements

Yes

For bedrooms and bathrooms

Yes

Energy Star

Yes

$224.99 (as of 10/24/2026 11:25 PDT - Details)

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This AEOCKY unit is Energy Star Most Efficient 2025 and covers up to 5,500 square feet with a maximum capacity of 80 pints per day. It combines high efficiency with broad coverage for large basements or open areas.

Pros

• Energy Star Most Efficient 2025 certified
• Covers up to 5,500 sq ft
• Up to 80 pints/day capacity
• High efficiency for lower energy bills

Cons

• No pump or drain hose specified
• Large unit may be heavy
• Commercial-grade features may be unnecessary for small homes

Good fit if

• For large basements or open-plan areas
• For users who value energy efficiency and high capacity

Skip if

• If you need a pump
• If you have a small or medium room

Verdict: The best Energy Star pick for large spaces, offering efficient performance and broad coverage.

12 Best Energy Star for basements

Midea Cube 50 Pint Dehumidifier for Basement

Pints per day

50 to 99 pints

Area (sq ft)

3,001 to 5,000 sq ft

For basements

Yes

Energy Star

Yes

$241.59 (as of 10/24/2026 00:34 PDT - Details) Typical price: $258.11, 6% off

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This Midea Cube is Energy Star certified, has a 50-pint capacity, and covers up to 4,500 square feet. It's specifically designed for basement use, with a robust feature set and the trust of the Midea brand.

Pros

• Energy Star certified
• 50-pint capacity for large basements
• Covers up to 4,500 sq ft
• Designed for basement use

Cons

• No pump, so manual bucket emptying is required
• No Wi-Fi or smart controls
• Not the most compact option

Good fit if

• For basements with high humidity
• For users who want Energy Star efficiency without a pump

Skip if

• If you need a pump for continuous drainage
• If you're on a very tight budget

Verdict: A reliable, Energy Star certified choice for basement dehumidification with a trusted brand.

13 Best 80-Pint Energy Star

Waykar 80 Pints 5000 Sq. Ft 2025 Energy Star Dehumidifier for Basement

Pints per day

50 to 99 pints

Area (sq ft)

3,001 to 5,000 sq ft

Whole house

Yes

Drain hose included

Yes

For basements

Yes

Energy Star

Yes

$219.96 (as of 10/24/2026 01:53 PDT - Details)

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At 80 pints per day and covering 5,000 square feet, this Waykar offers high capacity with Energy Star 2025 certification. It is designed for basements and provides a strong balance of performance and efficiency.

Pros

• High 80-pint capacity
• Energy Star 2025 certified
• Covers up to 5,000 sq ft
• Designed for basement use

Cons

• No pump, so draining requires a bucket or an add-on hose
• Large and heavy unit
• May be more than needed for smaller spaces

Good fit if

• For large, wet basements
• For users who need high capacity with energy efficiency

Skip if

• If you have a small or medium room
• If you need continuous drainage without manual emptying

Verdict: The best choice for those who need high capacity and Energy Star efficiency in a large basement.

14 Best for small rooms

Frigidaire 35 Pint Dehumidifier for Home

Pints per day

Under 50 pints

For bedrooms and bathrooms

Yes

$217.00 (as of 10/24/2026 12:56 PDT - Details)

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This Frigidaire 35-pint unit is compact and designed for homes, bedrooms, and medium rooms. It's a simple, brand-trusted option for spaces up to about 2,000 square feet, with no unnecessary extras.

Pros

• Compact design for small rooms
• 35-pint capacity, suitable for bedrooms
• Trusted Frigidaire brand
• Simple and easy to use

Cons

• Not Energy Star certified
• No pump or drain hose specified
• Area coverage not stated by the seller

Good fit if

• For bedrooms, home offices, or small apartments
• For users who want a basic, reliable unit

Skip if

• If you need a larger capacity for a big basement
• If you require Energy Star certification

Verdict: A no-frills, reliable choice for small to medium rooms from a well-known brand.

Specs compared

How we chose these

We started with a pool of 35 dehumidifiers that fit the budget criteria for this guide. From these, we selected 15 picks that represent the range of capacities and features available in this budget. We prioritized established brands and units with clear specifications from the seller. We did not test any of these units; all comparisons are based on the manufacturer's published specifications and the catalog data. Prices shown on this page are live and read from the store listing at the time of writing. We focused on capacity (pints per day), coverage area (square feet), energy efficiency (Energy Star certification), and convenience features such as continuous drain hoses and built-in pumps.

What to look for

Capacity measured in pints per day

The most important specification for any dehumidifier is its capacity, rated in pints of water removed per 24 hours. According to ENERGY STAR, the right capacity depends on the size of your space and how damp it is. A slightly damp room under 2,000 square feet may only need a 20-30 pint unit, while a very wet area over 2,000 square feet typically requires 50 pints or more. Among our picks, capacities range from 25 pints (Whirlpool) to 120 pints (Waykar). Remember that the U.S. Department of Energy updated testing standards in 2020, so new models may have lower advertised capacities than older ones under the same conditions; check the test standard year if you are replacing an older unit.

Coverage area in square feet

Manufacturers often list a maximum square footage coverage, but this is an estimate. The actual area a dehumidifier can handle depends on the moisture level, air circulation, and ceiling height. As a rule, use the coverage as a ceiling, not a target. If your 2,500 square foot basement is very damp, choose a model rated for 3,000 or more square feet, like the Midea Cube 50 Pint or the GE 50 Pint with Pump. Oversizing is better than undersizing, as the unit will cycle less frequently and remove moisture more consistently.

Energy Star certification

ENERGY STAR certified dehumidifiers use about 20% less energy than conventional models, according to the ENERGY STAR program. In this list, the AEOCKY, Waykar, Midea Cube, and Whirlpool models carry Energy Star certification. If your unit will run for long hours, such as in a basement, the lower operating cost of an Energy Star model can be significant over time. Look for the certification label to ensure it meets the latest efficiency standards. Some models, like the AEOCKY 6000 SqFt, are even listed as 'Most Efficient' for 2024 or 2025, indicating top-tier performance.

Drainage: buckets, hoses, and pumps

Most portable dehumidifiers collect water in a removable bucket that you must empty manually. If you run the unit continuously, consider a model with a continuous drain option. A hose can be connected to a floor drain, but only works if the drain is below the unit. If you need to move water upward, for example to a sink or window, you need a built-in condensate pump. Picks like the Midea Cube 50 Pint with Pump and the hOmeLabs 7,500 Sq Ft model include pumps for automatic drainage. This convenience adds to the cost and can increase noise, but it is essential for unattended operation.

Brand reputation and purpose

Dehumidifiers are a mature appliance category with many established brands. In this list, we included models from Frigidaire, GE, Midea, LG, Whirlpool, Hisense, and hOmeLabs, all well-known in the home appliance space. AEOCKY and Waykar are less familiar names but often offer higher capacity at lower prices. Consider the specific use case: a 'basement' model may have a more durable build and handle lower temperatures better. A 'small room' model may be more compact and quieter. Match the unit's intended use to your space to avoid over- or under-buying.

Questions

What size dehumidifier do I need for a large basement?

For a large basement over 2,000 square feet, ENERGY STAR recommends a capacity of at least 50 pints per day for very damp conditions. In our list, the Midea Cube 50 Pint, the GE 50 Pint with Pump, and the Waykar 120 Pint are all suitable. If your basement is extremely wet, consider a 100-pint or larger unit, such as the Waykar 120 Pints, to handle the moisture load.

What is the difference between a dehumidifier with a pump and one without?

A dehumidifier without a pump collects water in a bucket that you must empty manually. A model with a built-in pump can automatically push the water upwards through a hose, allowing you to drain into a sink or window even if the drain is above the unit. This is essential for unattended operation in basements. Pumps add a small amount of noise and cost, but greatly reduce maintenance.

Are Energy Star dehumidifiers worth the higher cost?

Yes, for most users. According to ENERGY STAR, certified dehumidifiers use about 20% less energy than conventional models. Over a humid summer month, this can make a noticeable difference on your electricity bill. Many of our picks, such as the AEOCKY, Waykar, and Midea Cube models, carry Energy Star certification without a large price premium over non-certified competitors.

How often do I need to empty a 50-pint dehumidifier?

A 50-pint dehumidifier can remove up to 50 pints of water per day under standard test conditions. In practice, this means you may need to empty the bucket once or twice a day in a very wet basement. To avoid frequent emptying, choose a model with a drain hose, or better yet, a built-in pump for automatic drainage. Our picks with pumps include the Midea Cube 50 Pint and the GE 50 Pint with Pump.

Can a dehumidifier under $300 handle a 5,000 square foot space?

Yes, several models in this price range are rated for over 5,000 square feet. The AEOCKY 6000Sq.Ft and the hOmeLabs 7,500 Sq Ft are two examples. However, the actual performance depends on the moisture level and air circulation. For a very wet space, you may need a higher capacity unit like the Waykar 120 Pints, which is still under $300 and covers over 6,000 square feet.

Update history

• 2026-10-07: First published.

Sources

• ENERGY STAR Dehumidifiers Buying Guidance
• ENERGY STAR Dehumidifier Testing and Capacity
• U.S. Department of Energy: Consumer Dehumidifiers
• CDC: Mold Prevention
• EPA: A Brief Guide to Mold, Moisture and Your Home