Best heat pump 2026
Heat pump brands compared on performance, reliability, quietness and the installer network. Ranking scored out of 100 according to our methodology.
- A heat pump delivers several kWh of heat for 1 kWh of electricity: performance is read on the COP and above all the SCOP (seasonal efficiency).
- Daikin leads on performance and range (advertised COP up to ~5); Atlantic reassures on made-in-France and after-sales service; Mitsubishi Electric on reliability and extreme cold (Zubadan technology).
- An air/water heat pump is eligible for MaPrimeRénov' (3,000 to 5,000 € depending on income, spending cap of 12,000 €) combinable with CEE bonuses; the air/air heat pump is not eligible for MaPrimeRénov'. Market cost of an installed air/water unit: often ~10,000 to 16,000 € before subsidies.
- ⚠️ Prices and subsidies change — request several quotes and check your eligibility.
The heat pump has established itself as a central solution for reducing the heating bill: it captures the calories in the air (or the ground) to deliver several kWh of heat per kWh of electricity consumed, hence the importance of seasonal efficiency (SCOP). Behind similar technical sheets, the gaps come down to real efficiency, reliability over time, the sound level and the density of the network of RGE-certified installers — a condition for access to subsidies such as MaPrimeRénov’. This comparison is an editorial ranking scored out of 100 according to an identical grid for all brands, to guide the choice according to your home.
Our methodology
Each option is scored out of 100 against weighted criteria, using the same grid for all.
| Criterion | What we look at | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | Seasonal efficiency (SCOP) and energy efficiency | 30 |
| Reliability | Durability, user feedback, warranty | 25 |
| Quietness | Sound level of the outdoor unit | 15 |
| Installer network | Coverage, RGE certification, after-sales service | 20 |
| Value for money | Price positioning of the range | 10 |
The 2026 ranking
Daikin
Atlantic
Mitsubishi Electric
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Comparison table
| Brand | Performance | Quietness | Network | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Daikin | High | Good | Very wide | 93 |
| Atlantic | Good | Good | Wide | 90 |
| Mitsubishi Electric | Good | Very good | Wide | 88 |
Frequently asked questions
Which heat pump to choose for a house?
The choice depends on the home, the insulation and the need (heating only or with hot water). To replace a boiler and benefit from subsidies, you generally turn to an air/water heat pump. Seasonal performance (SCOP) and reliability weigh the most in our grid: together, 55 % of the score.
Is a heat pump eligible for subsidies?
An air/water (or geothermal) heat pump is eligible for MaPrimeRénov': in the order of 3,000 € for intermediate households to 5,000 € for the most modest, within the limit of a spending cap of 12,000 €, combinable with CEE bonuses. On the other hand, the air/air heat pump is not eligible for MaPrimeRénov'. The amounts and conditions assume an RGE-certified installer and change regularly: check your eligibility.
How much does a heat pump cost?
The price varies greatly depending on the power, the type (air/air or air/water) and the installation. For an installed air/water heat pump, the market cost is often around 10,000 to 16,000 € before deducting subsidies. Only a personalized quote gives a reliable figure.
Is the sound level important?
Yes, especially in adjoining housing. The outdoor unit can generate noise; check the advertised sound level and take care with the installation location.
🗓️ Update history
- 05/08/2026 — Verification of players and facts, 2026 update.
- 18/07/2026 — Update of brands and 2026 ranking.
- 05/04/2026 — Revision of performance and quietness criteria.
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