Inverter (variable speed) technology is used to control the compressor motor located in the outdoor unit. This conserves energy by matching the motor power to the air conditioning load requirements. Once the desired temperature is reached, the system adjusts the power output to ensure that the desired temperature is constantly maintained, without large temperature fluctuations.
A non-inverter (fixed speed) air conditioner is constantly starting and stopping the compressor to control the room temperature, resulting in greater temperature fluctuations and using more energy.