How low can they go? $269

I stumbled across this AliExpress mini split and it got me wondering: **what is the absolute rock-bottom price you can get a decent mini split for?**

At this point, we’re seeing 12K BTU units in the U.S. for roughly $500–$1,000+, depending on brand/specs. ([The Home Depot](https://www.homedepot.com/b/Heating-Venting-Cooling-Mini-Split-Air-Conditioners/12000-BTU/230v/N-5yc1vZc4m1Z1z195ppZ1z19b6s?utm_source=chatgpt.com)⁠)

But AliExpress has me wondering how much of that price is actually the equipment vs. markup, distribution, warranty, etc.

For those who have bought directly from China/AliExpress:

What’s the cheapest mini split you’ve purchased? How low have you seen a **9K/12K BTU inverter heat pump** go?

Were you actually happy with it?

Any nightmare experiences with parts, refrigerant, or warranty?

At what price would you say **“screw it, it’s worth the gamble”**?

I’m curious if **$200–$300** equipment-only mini splits are actually a thing, or if the really cheap listings are too good to be true.

Link for reference: [https://www.aliexpress.us/item/3256812008877731.html](https://www.aliexpress.us/item/3256812008877731.html)