Daikin vs Mitsubishi Electric Air Conditioner: Which Is Better?

Daikin and Mitsubishi Electric are the two most highly regarded air conditioner brands in Australia. Both are Japanese, both are exceptional, and both are frequently recommended by HVAC professionals. But which one should you choose? Here's a detailed comparison.

Brand Overview

Daikin

Daikin is a Japanese manufacturer and the world's largest air conditioner company. In Australia, Daikin is known for excellent reliability, quiet operation, wide product range and strong after-sales support. They make everything from residential split systems to commercial HVAC.

Mitsubishi Electric

Mitsubishi Electric (not to be confused with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, which also makes air conditioners) is another Japanese giant with a reputation for ultra-quiet indoor units, premium build quality and excellent heating performance in cold climates. The Mitsubishi Electric MSZAP series is considered by many to be the benchmark for split system air conditioners.

Noise Levels

Both brands are very quiet. Mitsubishi Electric's indoor units are among the quietest available globally — some rated as low as 19 dBA, nearly silent. Daikin is also very quiet, with indoor units typically in the 20–30 dBA range. For bedroom installations, Mitsubishi Electric has a slight edge.

Heating Performance

Both brands perform well in Sydney's mild winters. For colder climates (Blue Mountains, Southern Highlands), Mitsubishi Electric's Hyper Heat models maintain full heating output at very low outdoor temperatures (–15°C), making them the preferred choice for cold-climate applications.

Energy Efficiency

Both brands produce highly energy-efficient models. The latest Daikin Alira X and Mitsubishi Electric MSZAP series both earn 5–6 star energy ratings. Running costs over time will be similar for comparable models.

Features

Daikin offers 3D airflow (which directs air more evenly around the room), Coanda effect operation, and a wide range of wifi-connected models. Mitsubishi Electric's standout feature is their i-see sensor, which detects people's locations in the room and directs airflow toward (or away from) them depending on your preference.

Price

Both brands sit at the premium end of the market. Comparable models are similarly priced. You are unlikely to find one significantly cheaper than the other for the same capacity and feature set.

Reliability

Both brands are extremely reliable with low fault rates. Daikin has a very strong service network across Australia. Mitsubishi Electric also has good support. Either brand is a solid long-term investment.

Which Should You Choose?

• Choose Daikin if you want the widest model range, excellent service network coverage, and consistent reliability across the full line-up.
• Choose Mitsubishi Electric if you prioritise the absolute quietest indoor unit, want the i-see sensor feature, or are installing in a cold climate where Hyper Heat models matter.

Shop Air Conditioners at Oceania Appliances

We supply and can help arrange installation of split system air conditioners to suit all homes across Sydney. Free delivery, 3–6 month warranty. Shop online or visit our Wetherill Park showroom.