Note: This article mainly discusses mini splits installed by contractors. If you want buy a single-zone mini split for DIY installation, we highly recommend another post: Best DIY mini splits on the market in 2023.
This guide compares best-selling 1-ton mini split systems from the four leading brands: LG, Mitsubishi, Fujitsu and Daikin.
This isn’t a comparison between good and bad equipment; the comparison is between four excellent mini split heat pumps to determine which is best.
At the end of this comparison of Daikin, Fujitsu, Mitsubishi and LG, we have provided links to our individual guides to each brand.
We cover all the essentials: Cooling and heating efficiency, sound levels, warranties, operating range, price, features and more are compared head to head.
Our approach: For the best comparison, we chose popular 12K BTU models in the high-SEER range. Each brand makes units that are less efficient, and all but LG make more efficient heat pumps. The models offer the best value – a combination of good efficiency without premium cost. Wall units are the most common indoor units for single-zone mini splits.
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Comparison at a Glance
A full explanation of the differences is found below. Here is the overview of the head-to-head comparison between these popular models.
We’ve bolded the best ratings and features where there is a difference.
| Daikin | Mitsubishi | Fujitsu | LG | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Outdoor model | RXS12LVJU | MUZ-GL12NA-U1 | AOU12RLFW1 | LSU120HSV5 |
| Indoor model | FTXS12LVJU | MSY-GL12NA | ASU12RLF1 | LSN120HSV5 |
| Equipment Price | $1,495 | $1,460 | $1,480 | $1,255 |
| Cooling BTU | 12K | 12K | 12K | 11.2K |
| Heating BTU | 14.4K | 14.4K | 14K | 13.3K |
| Cooling efficiency | 23 SEER | 23.1 SEER | 22 SEER | 21.5 SEER |
| Heating efficiency | 12.5 HSPF | 12.5 HSPF | 11 HSPF | 11 HSPF |
| Max. outdoor/Indoor noise | 49dB / 45dB | 49dB / 34dB | 49dB / 43dB | 45dB / 39dB |
| Warranty | 12 years compressor & parts | 12 years compressor & 10 years parts | 10 years compressor & parts | 7 years compressor & 5 years parts |
| 100% heating to: | 0F (Zero)F | -4F | -4F | -4F |
| Additional features | 4-speed fan | 5-speed fan | 4-speed fan | 6-speed |
| Fan auto-variable | Fan auto-variable | Fan auto-variable | Fan auto-variable | |
| Wireless remote | Wireless remote | Wireless remote | Wireless remote | |
| 1-week timer | 24-hour timer | 24-hour timer | 24-hour timer | |
| Washable filters | Anti-allergy filter (washable) | Washable filter | Washable filters | |
| WiFi | WiFi | WiFi | ||
| Occupancy sensor | Occupancy sensor (option) |
Let’s break down that chart to show how these units compare in similarities and differences.
What these Mini Split Heat Pumps Have in Common
The table shows many similarities – wireless remotes, auto restart after a power interruption and fans that adjust automatically faster or slower to match compressor performance. There are a few worth discussing.
Inverter technology: It’s not listed on the table, but worth noting that all these units use have inverter-driven compressors, as do most mini split heat pumps. They compressors modulate up and down in small increments as needed to keep indoor temperatures precisely balanced as outdoor temps rise and fall. Only high-end standard split system heat pumps have inverter/variable-capacity compressors, and prices start above $2,000 for them.
You may also be interested: Will AC Efficiency Skyrocket with Inverter Technology?
Auto-variable fans: This means that the fan switches speeds automatically, rather than you having to do it manually like you might on a window AC, to match compressor speed/capacity.
Multiple filters: All units have a filter that stops general allergens and another that traps odor-causing particles and breaks them down, so they won’t create foul odors in your home. These filters are washable. In fact, these manufacturers recommend washing them every week to every month depending on use. This is a level of maintenance not needed with standard split system air handlers.
Timers: Daikin is the only model with a 7-day timer. The others have 24-hour timers. These timers allow you to control heating and air conditioning when you’re away or asleep. Most homeowners find that a 24-hour timer is sufficient.
Differences in Mini Split Heat Pumps
While similar in many ways, there are differences worth pointing out too.
1. Efficiency
As noted, we chose models in the upper-middle range of efficiency. As a brand, Fujitsu is tops, and its most efficient unit is rated 38 SEER, the highest currently available. Mitsubishi makes a unit in the mid-30s SEER. Daikin makes one unit more efficient than this at 26 SEER. The LG model used here is currently the brand’s most efficient.
How much does efficiency effect operating cost?
The least efficient of the four, the LG LSU, is 5% to 7% less efficient than the others. This means it will produce monthly energy costs $7 to $12 higher depending on local electricity prices. The LG unit is also the most affordable. The $205-$240 saved compared with the others will be spent on higher utility bills in 17-34 months for the average home. After that, the lower efficiency of the LG model will cost you money.
Our choice for efficiency: Mitsubishi. The Mitsubishi model in this comparison has the lowest cost to efficiency ratio followed in order by Daikin, Fujitsu and LG.
2. Features
These are full-featured mini split heat pumps, but a few differences are worth noting:
WiFi control: The Fujitsu, Daikin and LG mini split models stand out for WiFi as an option. Using a smart device and the app allows you to monitor and control your system from anywhere, so you can turn it down if you forgot to do so when leaving your house and turn it up shortly before you arrive back home. The feature saves you money and ensures your home is comfortable when you arrive. We think that’s an important feature. The technology is available, so it makes sense to use it for energy savings and indoor comfort. (Updated on 2022: Mitsubishi also has its wifi called jumó Cloud now)
Occupancy sensor: The Daikin and Mitsubishi indoor units include motion sensors. When the sensor determines a person has left the room, it will put the system into an energy-saving mode, boosting heating or AC again when a person enters. It’s standard on the Daikin and an option on the Mitsubishi. This is another important feature, we believe.
Fan speed: LG has one more fan speed than Mitsubishi and two more than the others, so fan speed more closely follows the capacity at which the compressor is working. We noted these compressors speed up and slow down as needed for balanced heating and air conditioning. More fan speeds allow for closer tracking. This will make a slight difference in indoor comfort that some wouldn’t notice.
100% heating: The 100% heating lines show the temperatures to which you can expect 100% effectiveness before the unit can’t keep up. Mitsubishi, LG and Fujitsu have slight advantages, but those are irrelevant to most climates.
Our choice for features: Daikin. The Daikin RXS12LVJU & FTXS12LVJU combination mini split system has more of the features we think are most important including a 7-day timer, occupancy sensor and WiFi.
3. Noise
The mini split HVAC industry calls noise “sound pressure,” just so you know what the information is talking about as you visit brand sites.
The sound pressure of the outside units is less important. They’re all quiet enough to not be heard when you’re inside. It’s the noise level of the indoor units that is more significant, and here there is a large difference. The Mitsubishi model has a clear advantage over the others followed by the LG, Fujitsu and Daikin models.
Our choice for noise: Mitsubishi. The 34 decibels of the indoor unit is quieter than the LG model and much quieter than the others.
4. Warranty
There are real differences here too. Daikin’s 12-year total coverage is the best in the industry, slightly better than Mitsubishi’s 12/10 coverage and Fujitsu’s 10/10. LG lags behind.
Note: Mitsubishi warranty is 12 years parts and 12 compressor (if purchased through diamond contractor. Warranty length and level of coverage of Mitsubishi vary depending on who installs the unit and the level of contractor.
Our choice for warranty: Daikin, though Fujitsu and Mitsubishi are very good too. LG’s warranty is the shortest, but LG is also the most affordable of the four. The longer you plan to live in your current home, the more it makes sense to pay more for a unit with a longer warranty. If a move is in the plans, then the LG unit offers better value in the short-term.
5. Price
Because all these units are sold by many local and online retailers, prices will vary, sometimes by as much as $200 per system. We use average retail prices for our comparison. Shop around when you buy to find the best equipment costs.
These are competitively priced units, with the LG being significantly more affordable wherever you compare costs. The cost difference is largely due to the LG being the least efficient and having the shortest warranty coverage. We’re not as concerned about quality.
Our choice for price: The prices are clear to see. As we said, take into consideration how long you plan to live in your current home when deciding the price you’re willing to pay.
Daikin Vs Fujitsu Vs Mitsubishi Vs LG Single Zone Heat Pump Bottom Line
You might say that you can’t go wrong with any of these…but that leaves the issue unsettled.
There are two ways to look at it: Long-term and short-term.
The Daikin system has the most to offer. But it is also the most expensive. If you’re planning to stay put and want high efficiency, the best warranty protection and top features, then Daikin is a great choice.
If you think you’ll move in the next 5-7 years, then cost might be more important than warranty or efficiency. The LG LSU120HSV5 / LSN120HSV5 system is a good-quality unit that should serve you well for that time period. It is also a cost-effective option for locations where it won’t get heavy use – a vacation home, guest apartment or those few regions like much of the California coast that have moderate temperatures all year long.
On Exception
We say you can’t go wrong with any of them…except if it isn’t properly installed. There are variables that go into any installation that will affect durability and indoor comfort. These include correctly installing the equipment, determining the right location for the indoor unit and properly charging the system with refrigerant.
These variables are why it is important to hire a certified installer that is licensed, insured and very experienced. If you’d like to quickly and conveniently get estimates from top installers in your area that know they are competing on price, use the Free Local Quotes button or call today.
There is no cost or obligation.
For Further Research
Here are the guides mentioned above.
Daikin: https://www.pickhvac.com/ductless/daikin/
Fujitsu: https://www.pickhvac.com/ductless/fujitsu/
Mitsubishi: https://www.pickhvac.com/ductless/mitsubishi/
LG: https://www.pickhvac.com/ductless/lg/
FAQs
Which is better Mitsubishi or LG mini split? ›
Price + EFFICIENCY
There's a reason that a ductless heat pump from LG comes with the shortest warranty coverage. Mitsubishi offers the best ratio of efficiency to cost, followed in order by Daikin, Fujitsu, and LG. LG ductless heat pumps are five to seven percent less efficient than Mitsubishi's.
- Best Ductless Mini Split Air Conditioner of 2023.
- Senville LETO Series 9,000 BTU Mini Split Air Conditioner.
- Cooper & Hunter MIA Series 9,000 BTU Ductless Mini Split AC/Heating System.
- Senville AURA Series 12,000 BTU Mini Split Air Conditioner.
- Pioneer Inverter++ Energy-Star Mini Split Wall-Mounted Air Conditioner.
Warranty Information
Mini split systems require a high initial investment, and having to replace major parts can be expensive. While Fujitsu-brand air conditioning systems are known for their reliability, Mitsubishi's mini splits tend to have lower failure rates, requiring less general maintenance.
The differences in efficiency are more pronounced between the 3-zone models. Here, not only does the Mitsubishi Hyper Heat offer better efficiency in all three ratings, it does it with 25% more capacity than the Daikin Aurora. Mitsubishi is the clear choice if you're looking for a three-zone system.
Is Mitsubishi the best mini split? ›If you're looking for the best ductless mini split unit for your home, Mitsubishi Electric offers some of the best options. A pioneering leader in mini split technology, Mitsubishi Electric provides some of the most energy efficient, advanced, and innovative ductless mini split in the market today.
How long do LG mini-splits last? ›If you invest in ductless mini split systems like those produced by LG, Mitsubishi, Boreal, and GREE, you can expect your air conditioning to run upward of 20 years.
What is the best seer for a mini split? ›However, a SEER rating of 16 is recommended as the minimum. This can help you save over $2,000 over the unit's lifetime and reduces your greenhouse gas emission by approximately 30,000 pounds. The average SEER rating is between 15 and 18, but there are many mini-split systems with ratings into the 20s and 30s.
What mini splits are made in the USA? ›All MRCOOL products, including Mini Splits, Air Conditioners, Heat Pumps and Furnaces, are designed, created and manufactured by MRCOOL. Proudly an American company, MRCOOL plans, designs and ships from Kentucky, USA - where both the Headquarters and Warehouse are located.
Which is the best split AC to buy? ›LG AI Convertible 6-in-1 Cooling 2023 Model 1.5 Ton 5 Star Split AI Dual Inverter 4 Way Swing, HD Filt... Blue Star Convertible 4 in 1 Cooling 2023 Model 1.5 Ton 4 Star Split Inverter Multi Sensors, Stabalize... LG AI Convertible 6-in-1 Cooling 2023 Model 1.5 Ton 3 Star Split AI Dual Inverter 2 Way Swing, HD Filt...
Why Daikin split AC is best? ›Daikin ACs use the eco-friendly refrigerant R-32, which has reduced global warming potential by a third, emits 75% less CO2, has zero ozone depletion potential and best overall life-cycle climate performance. R-32 is not only the most balanced refrigerant but is also fairly easy to recycle.
How long do Fujitsu mini splits last? ›
How Long Do Ductless Mini-Split Systems Last? If you have regular maintenance performed, you should get around 20 years out of the unit. This is considerably longer than the lifespan of traditional HVAC systems of 12 to 15 years.
Is Daikin Made in China? ›Indeed, Daikin has relied heavily on China for parts since the mid-2010s, importing 35% of its needs, on a value basis, from the country in 2020.
What is the rank of Daikin? ›As of March 2023 Daikin has a market cap of $53.49 Billion. This makes Daikin the world's 284th most valuable company by market cap according to our data.
Is Daikin or Mitsubishi more expensive? ›Daikin air conditioners tend to be more expensive than Mitsubishi Electric air conditioners. However, both companies offer a variety of models and price points so it is possible to find an affordable option within either brand.
How long do Daikin mini splits last? ›So, How Long Do Mini Split Systems Last? The question “how long do mini split systems last” does not have a definitive answer. However, we do have enough experience to confidently state you can expect 10 – 15 years of efficient, reliable use when you purchase a quality system from a reputable manufacturer.
What is the difference between Daikin and Mitsubishi? ›Daikin's units are reliable energy efficiency and affordability. They have a wider range of systems than Mitsubishi Electric, but Mitsubishi Electric's still offer stylish design, are designed to be environmentally friendly and feature a hard wearing anti-corrosion treatment which will make the units last.
Are Daikin mini splits made in the USA? ›Daikin products are made in the USA!
They are actively adding jobs and investing in their future in America. In fact, they recently built a 40 million square foot facility outside of Houston TX, a $450 million investment.
And because mini splits have an air purification system, they will also improve your home's air quality. However, like all systems that can help improve indoor air quality, your ductless mini split will need to be periodically cleaned.
Do LG mini splits work in cold weather? ›Yes, ductless “mini-split” heat pumps are designed to work great in cold weather.
What is the life of LG Split AC? ›Main AC Maintenance Items:
Expect your AC's lifespan to be on the low end, 15-18 years. If you do 2-3 of these items regularly, then your AC's lifespan will be on the higher end of the range – between 18 to 20 years.
How long does a Mitsubishi split system last? ›
Most split systems are built to last around 7 years.
What SEER is the best value? ›A good SEER rating is typically 14 or higher.
The average efficiency rating for a central air conditioner in operation today is 16 but high energy-efficient models can have ratings as high as 23.
Generally, the higher the SEER, the more efficient it is. If you are dealing with hot days and cool evenings you may want to consider a higher SEER amount. 13 SEER A/C units are single stage, which is cheaper initially but cost more to run in the same amount of time you'd be using the 16 SEER unit.
Is 16 SEER that much better than 14 SEER? ›A 16 SEER unit is about 13% more efficient than a 14 SEER. For every $100 you spend to cool your home with a 14 SEER, you could save $13 on your monthly bill by upgrading to the 16 SEER unit.
Who makes LG Mini Split? ›LG is a well-known manufacturer of home appliances and electronics. The company is based in Seoul, South Korea. As a brand, LG is known for innovation.
Who is the largest mini split manufacturer? ›Daikin Mini Splits
Many Americans have not heard of Daikin, but it is the largest air conditioning manufacturer on the planet. They own a large number of brands, and have a huge inventory of products.
Fujitsu Ltd. is an owner in Fujitsu General, partnered with ETA-Ascon to manufacture and sell ductless air conditioners. Fujitsu has strong roots in the IT world, allowing their ductless mini-splits to have the latest technological advancements.
Which is No 1 AC brand? ›LG, Voltas, Daikin, Carrier, and Hitachi are the best AC brand in India for Split AC.
Which is No 1 AC in world? ›1. Samsung. These qualities have helped them to produce the best Ac in the world.
Which Daikin split AC series is best? ›Daikin's FTKM series is the winner of the “Appliance of the year Award 2022” under the Air Conditioners category by Ministry of Power. This 5 Star Inverter Split AC has a high ISEER of 5.2 and its patented swing compressor makes it highly energy efficient.
Which one is best LG or Daikin AC? ›
Our reviewers nominated Daikin as the best value air conditioning brand across several factors. While both Daikin and LG's products generally have a higher price tag they also offer intelligent and environmentally friendly features, including apps to control usage.
Is LG Split AC good? ›Cooling is excellent and yes it's energy efficient too, AC is running for 20+ hours every day and adds only 400-500 Rs/Month to Electricity Bill. Fast delivery by flipkart even in the current pandemic scenario and great service by LG, got it installed by LG technicians the same day it was delivered.
How long should a Daikin split system last? ›Daikin systems are designed for a typical useful life of 15 years with the actual average of 20+ years. This is why we are confident in supplying a warranty longer than any other manufacturer.
Are Fujitsu mini splits reliable? ›Fujitsu General AIRSTAGE systems are remarkably reliable: more than 99.99% have never had to be replaced or removed from where they've been installed during the life expectancy of the unit.
How quiet is a Mitsubishi mini split? ›How Quiet is a Mitsubishi Mini Split? The mini split systems are the quietest air conditioners you can find on the market. They have an average noise level of 32 decibels. To put that into perspective, window units and split and packaged central air conditioners have an average noise level of 50-72 decibels.
How efficient are Fujitsu mini splits? ›ENERGY STAR® Ratings
Fujitsu General Mini-splits have earned the "Most Efficient" rating by ENERGY STAR® for being 2.35 times more efficient than the government minimum standard. The ENERGY STAR® logo is assigned to products that meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
...
- Best Air Conditioner Brands 2023.
- American Standard.
- Amana.
- Lennox.
- Frigidaire.
- Rheem.
- Coleman.
- Heil.
Japan's diverse climate and limited resources led to the birth of Daikin technologies, a Japan Brand.
What brands are owned by Daikin? ›Daikin Industries, Ltd. (DIL) is a Fortune 1,000 company with more than 84,870 employees worldwide and is the world's #1 indoor comfort solutions provider company. Daikin Comfort Technologies North America (DNA), Inc is a subsidiary of DIL, providing Daikin, Goodman, Amana® and Quietflex brands products.
What is Daikin famous for? ›Daikin is a leading innovator and worldwide provider of advanced, high-quality air conditioning and heating solutions for residential, commercial and industrial applications. With more than 90 years of operation, Daikin has sold millions of systems throughout 140 countries.
Why is Daikin more expensive? ›
While Daikin's AC is powerful it's cost of maintenance is extremely high. It is basically due to the poor service center extended warrenty packages. No plastic and or metal part is included in warrenty. They take unnecessary visitation charges and are unable to find the exact problem.
Which is the best 5 star rating air conditioner? ›- Samsung 1.5 Ton 5 Star Split AC (AR18CYNAMWK)
- Voltas 1.5 Ton Split Inverter AC (4503224-185V DAZJ)
- Panasonic 1 Ton Split Inverter AC (CS/CU-NU12YKY5W)
- Daikin 1.5 Ton Split Inverter AC (MTKM50U)
- LG 1 Ton Split (RS-Q14ENZE)
If you're in the market for a new air-conditioner, you may be wondering what the quietest split system air-conditioner is. Fortunately, two options stand out from the rest: the Mitsubishi Electric MSZ-AP and Senville Mini Split.
Is Mitsubishi the best AC brand? ›The Mitsubishi electric company produces AC's of superior quality, with a reputation that precedes it. A premium brand, the Mitsubishi AC price in India for split air-conditioners can be higher, but this is a far more technologically advanced cooling system than what other brands have to offer.
What is the warranty on a Daikin mini split? ›Air Quality
To receive 12-Year Parts Limited Warranty, online registration must be completed within 60 days of installation.
Generally Mitsubishi Electric air con units are more expensive than Daikin but this can vary between types and models of air conditioner. With similar pricing it would be worth considering performance, what size AC unit you need, after sales service & which unit is going to suit your homes décor better.
Which AC is better Daikin or Fujitsu? ›All three brands offer a range of energy-efficient models that can help reduce your running costs. However, Fujitsu is generally considered to be the most efficient brand, followed by Daikin and then ActronAir. When it comes to performance, all three brands offer reliable and effective split-system air conditioners.
Does Daikin make a good mini split? ›All in all, after a spec-by-spec review of the Daikin mini-splits, you can see that they are a solid choice. If you compare them to Mitsubishi, Pioneer, Haier, Carrier units, you will find that Daikin units have above-average SEER and HSPF ratings. Be sure to choose the right Daikin unit for your specific needs.
Is Mitsubishi Split good? ›Mitsubishi Electric Air Conditioners won the award for the Most Trusted Brand (Air Conditioners) for in Asia for 2022 so it's clear they know a thing or two about customer service!
Who makes Mitsubishi mini splits? ›Mitsubishi mini-split systems are produced by Mitsubishi Electric, a core company of Mitsubishi, that was founded in 1921 in Japan. Mitsubishi's mini-split systems rank among the high-performing systems and are comparable in price to similar brands.
What SEER mini split should I buy? ›
However, a SEER rating of 16 is recommended as the minimum. This can help you save over $2,000 over the unit's lifetime and reduces your greenhouse gas emission by approximately 30,000 pounds. The average SEER rating is between 15 and 18, but there are many mini-split systems with ratings into the 20s and 30s.
Is Mitsubishi and Daikin the same? ›Mitsubishi and Daikin are two very recognizable brands that are always in demand. They are rival companies selling much the same product and sharing a customer base. Whether it be as a home air conditioner or commercial HVAC system, Daikin and Mitsubishi are found everywhere.
Who is the best split AC? ›- LG 1.5 Ton 5 Star AI DUAL Inverter Split AC. ...
- Panasonic 1.5 ton 5-star Wi-fi Twin-Cool Inverter Split AC. ...
- Godrej 1.5 Ton 5 Star Inverter Split AC. ...
- Voltas Split AC Inverter 1.5 ton 3-star. ...
- Samsung 1.5 Ton 3 Star Inverter Split AC. ...
- Blue Star 1.5 ton 3-star Fixed Speed Split AC. ...
- Carrier 1.5 ton 3-star Inverter Split AC.
Fortunately, two options stand out from the rest: the Mitsubishi Electric MSZ-AP and Senville Mini Split. These air-conditioners are designed to be as quiet as possible, making them perfect for homes or businesses where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum.