6 Best Alternatives to the GREE 42 (2026)
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The GREE 42,000 BTU Tri-Zone Floor Console delivers high-capacity cooling for three separate zones. It uses a 21 SEER2 efficiency rating and operates on 230V power. This floor console design fits spaces where wall mounting is not ideal. You might look for gree 42 alternatives if you need a different configuration or capacity. Some buyers prefer wall-mounted units for easier installation. Others may require lower BTU output for smaller areas. You might also seek smart Wi-Fi controls for remote management. The selected alternatives share key specifications with the original Gree model. They all offer tri-zone capability and comparable energy efficiency. This ensures you get similar performance without the specific floor console form factor. The list covers options ranging from 9,000 to 42,000 BTU. You can find units that match your exact voltage and zone requirements. Each option provides independent temperature control for multiple rooms. This guide helps you find the right balance of capacity and features for your home.
Our top pick: Gree 42k BTU Tri-Zone Floor Console.
How the Alternatives Compare
TOSOT 30,000 BTU Tri Zone Mini Split
The TOSOT 30,000 BTU Tri-Zone Mini Split offers 30,000 BTU of cooling capacity, which is lower than the Gree 42,000 BTU original. It maintains the same 21 SEER2 efficiency and 230V voltage. This model adds Wi-Fi smart control, a feature not listed for the Gree unit. Its indoor unit dimensions are 15.8 inches wide by 26 inches high. The total weight is 282 pounds. You should choose this alternative if you need slightly less cooling power but want built-in Wi-Fi connectivity for remote management. It is suitable for medium-sized zones where the full 42,000 BTU output is unnecessary.
Gree Multi21+ Tri-Zone 24k BTU
The Gree Multi21+ Tri-Zone 24k BTU provides 24,000 BTU of cooling, significantly less than the original 42,000 BTU model. It shares the same 21 SEER2 efficiency rating and 230V operation. This unit is a wall-mount design, whereas the original is a floor console. Its indoor unit measures 38.6 inches wide by 31.1 inches high. It splits capacity into 9K, 9K, and 18K zones. Pick this option if you have smaller rooms that do not require high-capacity cooling. The wall-mount form factor saves floor space but requires less vertical clearance than the floor console.
Gree 42k BTU Tri-Zone Wall Mount
The Gree 42k BTU Tri-Zone Wall Mount matches the original in cooling capacity at 42,000 BTU. It also uses 21 SEER2 efficiency and 230V power. The key difference is the indoor unit design. This alternative is a wall-mount unit, while the original is a floor console. Its indoor dimensions are 29 inches wide by 11 inches high. It distributes capacity as 9K, 18K, and 18K. Choose this model if you prefer wall mounting over floor installation. It provides the same high-capacity zoned comfort but fits differently in your space, requiring clear wall area rather than floor space.
Gree 36K BTU Tri-Zone Wall Mount
The Gree 36K BTU Tri-Zone Wall Mount offers 36,000 BTU of cooling, which is less than the original 42,000 BTU unit. It maintains the same 21 SEER2 efficiency and 230V voltage. This is a wall-mount system, unlike the floor console original. It splits capacity into 9K, 18K, and 18K zones. Select this alternative if you need tri-zone cooling but your space requires less than 42,000 BTU. It is suitable for medium-sized areas where the full capacity of the original model would be excessive. The wall-mount design offers a different installation profile for your rooms.
Rellytech 18k BTU 21 SEER2 Mini Split
The Rellytech 18k BTU 21 SEER2 Mini Split is a single-zone unit, unlike the tri-zone original. It provides 18,000 BTU of cooling, which is much lower than the 42,000 BTU original. It shares the 21 SEER2 efficiency and 230V voltage. This model includes Wi-Fi smart control. Its indoor unit is 39.6 inches wide by 9.5 inches high and weighs 95.1 pounds. Pick this option if you only need to cool one room. It is not a replacement for multi-zone systems but offers efficient, smart-controlled cooling for smaller, single spaces.
COSTWAY 9000 BTU Mini Split 21 SEER2
The COSTWAY 9000 BTU Mini Split 21 SEER2 is a single-zone unit with 9,000 BTU of cooling capacity. This is far less than the original 42,000 BTU tri-zone system. It operates on 230V power and offers 21 SEER2 efficiency. This model includes Wi-Fi smart control. Its indoor unit is 31.9 inches wide by 12.1 inches high and weighs only 19.8 pounds. Choose this alternative for small rooms where minimal cooling is needed. It is not suitable for large spaces or multi-zone requirements. It serves as a compact, efficient solution for individual rooms with specific power constraints.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
Gree 42k BTU Tri-Zone Floor Console
Best for: Large spaces needing three separate climate zones
- Cooling Capacity
- 42,000 BTU
- Efficiency Rating
- 21 SEER
- Voltage
- 208/230V
- Number of Zones
- Tri-Zone
- Heat Pump
- Heat Pump
View on Amazon: Gree 42k BTU Tri-Zone Floor Console Affiliate link
This Gree unit delivers 42,000 BTU of cooling and heating for three separate zones. It uses a 21 SEER2 efficiency rating and a 208/230V voltage. The floor console design mounts low to the wall, saving floor space while keeping air circulation effective. It suits large rooms needing high capacity and zoned control without bulky ductwork.
Pros
- 42,000 BTU cooling capacity for large spaces
- Tri-zone control for three areas
- 21 SEER2 energy efficiency rating
- Floor console design mounts six inches above floor
Cons
- Requires 208/230V dedicated circuit
- Line sets not included in package
- Higher capacity than smaller zone needs
Good fit if
- You need to cool three distinct zones
- You require 42,000 BTU for a large area
- You want a floor console that saves wall space
Skip if
- You only have standard 115V outlets
- You need a single-zone system
- You prefer a wall-mounted unit
Verdict: Gree 42k BTU Tri-Zone Floor Console provides high-capacity zoned comfort for large spaces. It fits homes needing three separate climate zones with a low-profile indoor unit.
TOSOT 30,000 BTU Tri Zone Mini Split
Best for: three-zone setups in severe winter climates
- Cooling Capacity
- 30,000 BTU
- Efficiency Rating
- 21 SEER2
- Voltage
- 230V
- Number of Zones
- Tri 3 Zone
- Heat Pump
- Heat Pump
- Smart Connectivity
- Gree+ app, Voice control
View on Amazon: TOSOT 30,000 BTU Tri Zone Mini Split Affiliate link
This TOSOT system provides 30,000 BTU of tri-zone cooling and heating across two 9,000 BTU indoor units and one 12,000 BTU unit. With a 21 SEER2 efficiency rating and an operating range down to -22°F, it serves three distinct spaces from a single 230V outdoor condenser. It suits you if you need multi-room zoning without 42,000 BTU capacity.
Pros
- 21 SEER2 efficiency and 10 HSPF2 rating
- Operates in temperatures from -22°F to 118°F
- Includes Gree+ app and voice control integration
- Comes with a 16.4-foot copper pipe set
Cons
- Total 30,000 BTU capacity provides less output than 42,000 BTU units
- Package does not include a power cord
- Heavy outdoor system weighing 282 pounds
Good fit if
- You need independent heating and cooling across three separate zones.
- You experience sub-zero winter temperatures as low as -22°F.
- You prefer monitoring temperatures through the Gree+ app.
Skip if
- You need 42,000 BTU of total output for larger square footage.
- You cannot supply 230V power to the outdoor location.
Verdict: TOSOT 30,000 BTU Tri-Zone Mini Split delivers efficient multi-room coverage for three moderate spaces requiring heating in extreme winter conditions down to -22°F.
Gree Multi21+ Tri-Zone 24k BTU
Best for: Zoned cooling in medium-sized rooms
- Cooling Capacity
- 24,000 BTU
- Efficiency Rating
- 21 SEER
- Voltage
- 208/230V
- Number of Zones
- Tri-Zone
- Heat Pump
- Heat Pump
- Smart Connectivity
- Wi-Fi (optional kit sold separately)
View on Amazon: Gree Multi21+ Tri-Zone 24k BTU Affiliate link
This Gree Multi21+ system delivers 24,000 BTU of cooling across three zones. It uses a 21 SEER2 inverter compressor for steady temperatures and energy efficiency. The wall-mount unit measures 38.6 by 31.1 inches. It includes a 7-year compressor warranty. You get flexible indoor unit configurations. This setup suits medium spaces needing zoned control.
Pros
- 24,000 BTU total cooling capacity
- 21 SEER2 efficiency rating
- 7-year compressor warranty
- Tri-zone configuration without distribution boxes
Cons
- Wi-Fi kit sold separately
- Lower capacity than the 42,000 BTU alternatives on this list
- Requires professional installation for warranty validity
Good fit if
- You need to cool three separate rooms with a single outdoor unit
- You prefer a wall-mounted system over a floor console
- You want a 24,000 BTU system with a strong warranty
Skip if
- You require a 42,000 BTU system for a large open space
- You want built-in smart connectivity without buying extra parts
- You need a floor console unit instead of a wall mount
Verdict: Gree 24K BTU Tri-Zone Wall Mount fits homeowners who need zoned cooling for smaller areas rather than whole-house coverage. It offers solid efficiency and warranty coverage for its size class.
Gree 42k BTU Tri-Zone Wall Mount
Best for: multi-zone cooling in large open spaces
- Cooling Capacity
- 42,000 BTU
- Efficiency Rating
- 21 SEER
- Voltage
- 208/230V
- Coverage Area
- 1,400 - 2,300 ft2
- Number of Zones
- Tri-Zone
- Heat Pump
- Heat Pump
View on Amazon: Gree 42k BTU Tri-Zone Wall Mount Affiliate link
This Gree Multi21+ system delivers 42,000 BTU of cooling across three zones. It features a 21 SEER efficiency rating and a 208/230V voltage requirement. The wall-mount design measures 29 inches wide and covers 1,400 to 2,300 square feet. You get steady temperatures via G10 inverter technology. Note that smart Wi-Fi control requires a separate field-installed kit.
Pros
- 42,000 BTU cooling capacity for large spaces
- Tri-zone configuration splits airflow to three areas
- 21 SEER efficiency rating for energy savings
- G10 inverter compressor for steady temperature control
Cons
- Wi-Fi connectivity requires a separate purchased kit
- 208/230V voltage may require specific electrical setup
- Larger 29-inch width needs adequate wall space
Good fit if
- You need to cool three distinct zones simultaneously
- You have a 208/230V electrical circuit available
- You want high BTU output for large areas
Skip if
- You need built-in Wi-Fi without extra parts
- You only have standard 115V household outlets
- You are cooling a single small room
Verdict: Gree 42,000 BTU Tri-Zone Wall Mount suits you if you need to condition three large zones with a single high-capacity unit. It is ideal for open floor plans or multi-room homes requiring independent temperature control.
Gree 36K BTU Tri-Zone Wall Mount
Best for: three-zone cooling under 36k BTU
- Cooling Capacity
- 36,000 BTU
- Efficiency Rating
- 21 SEER
- Voltage
- 208/230V
- Coverage Area
- 1,200 - 2,000 ft2
- Number of Zones
- Tri-Zone
- Heat Pump
- Heat Pump
View on Amazon: Gree 36K BTU Tri-Zone Wall Mount Affiliate link
This Gree 36,000 BTU Multi21+ system cools and heats three zones using a 9K, 18K, and 18K split. It achieves a 21 SEER rating for efficient operation. The unit uses G10 inverter technology to maintain steady temperatures. It covers 1,200 to 2,000 square feet. You get a compact wall mount design. Smart control requires a separate Wi-Fi kit purchase.
Pros
- 36,000 BTU total cooling capacity
- Tri-zone configuration with 9K, 18K, 18K units
- 21 SEER energy efficiency rating
- G10 inverter compressor for steady temperatures
Cons
- Wi-Fi connectivity sold separately
- Lower capacity than the 42,000 BTU options
- Requires separate line sets
Good fit if
- You need to cool three distinct rooms
- You prefer a wall mount installation
- You want efficient inverter technology
Skip if
- You require built-in smart Wi-Fi
- You need more than 36,000 BTU
- You want a floor console unit
Verdict: Gree 36k BTU Tri-Zone Wall Mount suits those needing multi-zone cooling under 36,000 BTU. It offers efficient inverter performance for medium-sized spaces.
Rellytech 18k BTU 21 SEER2 Mini Split
Best for: Single rooms up to 750 sq ft
- Cooling Capacity
- 18,000 BTU
- Efficiency Rating
- 21 SEER2
- Voltage
- 208V/230V
- Coverage Area
- Up to 1250 sq ft
- Heat Pump
- Heat Pump
- Smart Connectivity
- Wi-Fi, Voice control, Smartphone app
View on Amazon: Rellytech 18k BTU 21 SEER2 Mini Split Affiliate link
This Rellytech unit offers 18,000 BTU cooling and heating for spaces up to 750 square feet. It achieves a 21 SEER2 efficiency rating on 230V power. The system includes Wi-Fi connectivity for remote control and voice commands. It operates in temperatures from -13°F to 122°F. This model suits you if you need a reliable, energy-efficient split system for a bedroom or office.
Pros
- 21 SEER2 energy efficiency rating
- Wi-Fi and voice control support
- Operates from -13°F to 122°F
- Uses R454B refrigerant
- Includes 24-hour timer and sleep mode
Cons
- 18,000 BTU capacity is lower than the 42,000 BTU GREE model
- Requires 230V electrical connection
- Indoor unit width is 39.6 inches
Good fit if
- You need efficient cooling for a single room
- You want Wi-Fi control for scheduling
- You have 230V power available
Skip if
- You need more than 18,000 BTU
- You only have 115V outlets
- You require multi-zone heating
Verdict: Rellytech 18k BTU 21 SEER2 Mini Split fits you if you need a single-zone unit with strong efficiency and smart controls. It does not replace the high-output GREE 42 for large commercial spaces.
COSTWAY 9000 BTU Mini Split 21 SEER2
Best for: small rooms with 230V power
- Cooling Capacity
- 9000 BTU
- Efficiency Rating
- 21 SEER2
- Voltage
- 208/230V
- Coverage Area
- Up to 450 Sq. Ft
- Heat Pump
- Heat Pump
- Smart Connectivity
- WiFi, Alexa, Google Assistant, App
View on Amazon: COSTWAY 9000 BTU Mini Split 21 SEER2 Affiliate link
This COSTWAY 9000 BTU unit provides cooling and heating for spaces up to 450 square feet. It features a 21 SEER2 efficiency rating and operates on 208/230V power. You get smart control via Wi-Fi, app, and voice assistants. The indoor unit runs as low as 28 dB and includes a 4D airflow design. It is a compact option for smaller rooms or zones where high capacity is not required.
Pros
- 21 SEER2 energy efficiency rating
- Wi-Fi, app, and voice control support
- Quiet operation down to 28 dB
- 4D airflow distribution design
- Self-clean function for maintenance
Cons
- 9000 BTU capacity is low for larger areas
- Requires 208/230V electrical connection
- Indoor unit width is 31.9 inches
Good fit if
- You need a low-capacity unit for a small room
- You have a 208/230V power source available
- You want smart app and voice control
Skip if
- You need more than 9000 BTU of cooling
- Your home only has standard 115V outlets
- You are cooling a large open space
Verdict: COSTWAY 9000 BTU Mini Split is a quiet, efficient choice for small rooms with 230V power. It suits buyers who prioritize smart features and low noise over high capacity.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Gree 42k BTU Tri-Zone Floor Console | TOSOT 30,000 BTU Tri Zone Mini Split | Gree Multi21+ Tri-Zone 24k BTU | Gree 42k BTU Tri-Zone Wall Mount | Gree 36K BTU Tri-Zone Wall Mount | Rellytech 18k BTU 21 SEER2 Mini Split | COSTWAY 9000 BTU Mini Split 21 SEER2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cooling Capacity | 42,000 BTU | 30,000 BTU | 24,000 BTU | 42,000 BTU | 36,000 BTU | 18,000 BTU | 9000 BTU |
| Efficiency Rating | 21 SEER | 21 SEER2 | 21 SEER | 21 SEER | 21 SEER | 21 SEER2 | 21 SEER2 |
| Voltage | 208/230V | 230V | 208/230V | 208/230V | 208/230V | 208V/230V | 208/230V |
| Coverage Area | not stated | not stated | not stated | 1,400 - 2,300 ft2 | 1,200 - 2,000 ft2 | Up to 1250 sq ft | Up to 450 Sq. Ft |
| Number of Zones | Tri-Zone | Tri 3 Zone | Tri-Zone | Tri-Zone | Tri-Zone | not stated | not stated |
| Heat Pump | Heat Pump | Heat Pump | Heat Pump | Heat Pump | Heat Pump | Heat Pump | Heat Pump |
| Smart Connectivity | not stated | Gree+ app, Voice control | Wi-Fi (optional kit sold separately) | Wi-Fi (optional kit sold separately) | Wi-Fi kit accessory (sold separately) | Wi-Fi, Voice control, Smartphone app | WiFi, Alexa, Google Assistant, App |
| Smart Control | not stated | Wi-Fi | not stated | not stated | not stated | Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi, Alexa |
| Dimensions | not stated | 37.9 × 15.8 × 26 inches | not stated | 10 × 29 × 11 inches | not stated | 9.45 × 39.6 × 12.4 inches | 7.48 × 31.9 × 12.1 inches |
| Weight | not stated | 282 pounds | not stated | not stated | not stated | 95.1 pounds | 19.8 pounds |
| Width | not stated | not stated | 38.6 inches | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Height | not stated | not stated | 31.1 inches | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Size | not stated | 30,000 BTU(T3) 9+9+12 | 24,000 BTU / 9K, 9K, 18K | 42,000 BTU / 9K, 18K, 18K | 36,000 BTU / 9K, 18K, 18K | 18000BTU,230V,21 SEER2-WiFi | not stated |
| Color | not stated | White | White | not stated | not stated | White | White |
| Model | not stated | e3f954de-af41-41a3-b206-d026286e1ba5 | MULTI24CVIR302 | not stated | MULTI36CLIV307 | CE0-1 | Blast Pro |
For a related comparison, read vivicreate 42 alternatives.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best tri-zone alternative to the GREE 42k BTU?
The TOSOT 30,000 BTU Tri Zone Mini Split is a strong alternative. It offers 30,000 BTU of cooling capacity across three zones. It matches the GREE 42k with a 21 SEER2 efficiency rating and 230V power. It also includes Wi-Fi smart control for remote management.
Are there smaller tri-zone options for medium-sized spaces?
Yes, the Gree Multi21+ Tri-Zone 24k BTU is a compact option. It provides 24,000 BTU total capacity split into 9K, 9K, and 18K zones. It maintains a 21 SEER2 efficiency rating and operates on 230V power. It is designed for medium-sized rooms rather than large open areas.
Does the TOSOT 30k BTU unit have smart features?
Yes, the TOSOT 30,000 BTU Tri Zone Mini Split includes Wi-Fi smart control. This allows you to manage the system remotely. It also delivers 30,000 BTU of cooling with a 21 SEER2 efficiency rating. The unit operates on 230V power and fits three distinct climate zones.
Is there a wall-mount alternative with 42k BTU capacity?
The Gree 42k BTU Tri-Zone Wall Mount is a direct wall-mount alternative. It provides 42,000 BTU total capacity split into 9K, 18K, and 18K zones. It shares the same 21 SEER2 efficiency rating and 230V voltage as the floor console version. It suits large open spaces needing independent control.
What is a single-zone alternative if I only need one room cooled?
The Rellytech 18k BTU 21 SEER2 Mini Split is a suitable single-zone choice. It delivers 18,000 BTU of cooling with Wi-Fi smart control. It matches the high 21 SEER2 efficiency rating and operates on 230V power. It is designed for single rooms up to 750 square feet.
Can I find a mini split under 18k BTU for small rooms?
The COSTWAY 9000 BTU Mini Split 21 SEER2 is a small option. It provides 9,000 BTU of cooling capacity for small rooms. It features Wi-Fi smart control and a 21 SEER2 efficiency rating. It operates on 230V power and prioritizes low noise over high capacity.
Do these alternatives also use 21 SEER2 efficiency ratings?
Most listed alternatives share the 21 SEER2 efficiency rating. This includes the TOSOT 30k, Gree 24k, Gree 42k wall mount, Gree 36k, Rellytech 18k, and COSTWAY 9k models. This high rating indicates strong energy efficiency across different capacities and brands in the list.
Which alternative offers the highest total cooling capacity?
The Gree 42k BTU Tri-Zone Wall Mount offers the highest capacity at 42,000 BTU. The TOSOT 30,000 BTU Tri Zone Mini Split provides 30,000 BTU. The Gree 36k model offers 36,000 BTU. These units are designed for larger spaces requiring significant cooling power across multiple zones.