- 1. Lasko Ceramic Tower Space Heater
- 2. Lasko Ceramic Portable Space Heater
- 3. AmazonBasics Cermaic Small Space Personal Mini Heater
- 4. Dr Infrared Heater Portable Space Heater
- 5. Lasko Compact Space Heater
- 6. AmazonBasics Oscillating Ceramic Heater
- 7. Pro Breeze Portable Space Heater
- 8. Vornado MVH Vortex Heater
- 9. Brightown Small Electric Space Heater
- 10. Lasko Designer Series Ceramic Space Heater
- 11. EconoHome Wall Mount Space Heater Panel
- 12. Pelonis Electric Oil Filled Space Radiator
- 13. Crane Personal Ceramic Space Heater
- 14. Honeywell Heat Bud Ceramic Heater
- 15. Heat Storm Cabinet Heater
- 16. NewAir Portable Ceramic Space Heater
The Best Space Heater
When the cooler months draw in, blankets, sweaters, fuzzy socks, and warm, frothy drinks are all used to keep us warm. A great way to warm yourself up and keep cozy in your home or at the office is with a space heater. The best space heater is one that you can easily move around and keep close to help warm you up and keep your gas bills low! For space heaters that may earn a permanent spot in your home, there are some beautifully designed units that are sleek, modern and fit with your decor. Same as portable air conditioners their main characteristic is that you can move them across the room, wherever it suits you the most. Features that keep you and your family safe when your space heater is in operation are best, so you do not need to compromise keeping warm and your safety. Let's take a look at the best space heaters on the market and features you need to consider before any purchase!
1. Lasko Ceramic Tower Space Heater
Key Features
Ideal for rooms up to 300 sq. ft.
1,500 watts
Wireless remote control
2 quiet heat settings
Programmable thermostat
Automatic overheat protection
First up we have the Lasko Ceramic Tower Space Heater, ideal for heating a space up to 300 square feet. It offers two quiet heat settings and contains a self-regulating ceramic element and a programmable thermostat, so you can choose the perfect heating level for you. This tower space heater is very easy to use and offers a color-coded LED display panel conveniently placed on top of the unit. This heater offers a range of safety features such as automatic overheat protection, which will turn the heater off if it has been left on for too long. The exterior of the heater also remains cool, making it ideal for those with children. The built-in carry handle makes it portable, weighing just 7.5 pounds and measuring 7.25 x 7.4 x 23 inches. You will also receive a three year limited warranty with this space heater.
Pros
Oscillation
Built-in timer
Easy to use controls
Built-in carry handles
LED display
Cons
No auto-off if knocked over
Quite loud
No fan only option
Loud beeps when changing settings
2. Lasko Ceramic Portable Space Heater
Key Features
Ideal for small spaces up to 300 sq. ft.
1,500 watts
3 quiet heat setting
11 temperature options
Adjustable thermostat
Perfectly compact and portable, the Lasko Ceramic Portable Space Heater provides heating coverage of up to 300 square feet. With both high and low heat settings, a fan-only option, and an adjustable thermostat, you can set your space heater to the perfect temperature. This heater uses ceramic heating for quick heating and a fan to quickly deliver the heat throughout smaller spaces. The manual controls positioned on top of the heater are really simple to use and allow you to choose from eleven different heat settings. Safety features like overheat protection prevent the heater from being left on too long. Move from room-to-room with the convenient built-in carry handle; measuring just 6 x 3.7 x 9.2 inches and weighing only 1 pound, you can set this space heater atop counters, desks, or tables. You will also receive a three year limited warranty with this purchase.
Pros
Built-in carry handle
Easy to operate
Fan only mode
Overheat protection
Cool to touch exterior
Cons
No remote control
No auto-off if knocked over
Noisy
Noticeable vibration on hard surfaces
Unreliable thermostat
3. AmazonBasics Cermaic Small Space Personal Mini Heater
With a choice of colors, the AmazonBasics Ceramic Small Space Personal Mini Heater is great for the office or home and is ideal for tables or desks – bring it with you wherever you go! Unlike other mini heaters, this mini heater features naturally-conductive ceramic coils can heat up in just seconds. This heater is ideal for use on desks or tables to help warm you up. Simply switch this heater on or off to operate. The tip-over protection safety feature ensures that your heater will switch off if accidentally knocked over, helping prevent fires. This perfectly portable mini heater measures 5.87 x 3.2 x 6 inches and weighs 1.43 pounds.
Pros
Tip-over protection
Compact design
Sturdy base
Can be used on tabletops
Cons
No heat settings
Can be easily knocked over
Cannot warm a whole room
A little noisy
4. Dr Infrared Heater Portable Space Heater
Key Features
1,500 watts
Infrared dual heating system
Quiet, just 39 dB
Removable filter
Overheat protection
Tip-over protection
The retro-looking Dr Infrared Heater Portable Space Heater is our premium pick! This heater features a dual heating system and acts almost like sunlight, the infrared heating providing a natural-feeling warmth. The electronic thermostat makes for easy temperature control; you can even use the wireless remote to adjust the settings, so no need to get out of bed! The seven-inch blower is capable of generating high pressure which moves large amounts of air, but at a lower speed making it soothingly quiet, with noise levels of just 39 dB. There is a range of safety features such as overheat protection, tip-over protection, and the exterior remains cool to the touch, even while providing powerful heating. Forget needing to replace your infrared heaters every winter, this space heater is built to last; one of the best features about this heater is the removable filter that is easy to clean. Conveniently set on caster wheels, you can move this heater from room-to-room with ease. It measures 13 x 12.5 x 17 inches and weighs 19 pounds. You will also receive a three year warranty on this heater.
Pros
Ideal for large rooms
Natural feeling warmth
Wireless remote control
On caster wheels
Long power cord
Auto energy-saving mode
Cons
Slightly noisy
Dries the air out
Inaccurate thermostat
Doesn’t work well in very low temperatures
5. Lasko Compact Space Heater
If you are looking for a portable and personal space heater without spending too much, our budget pick, the Lasko Compact Space Heater is best! With a choice of colors, you can choose one that suits your decor or blends in at the office. This ceramic heater warms quickly and warm air is delivered via the fan. Ideal for your desk or placed on top of a counter or table, this personal heater is great for providing a punch of heat on those chilly days, simply turn it on or off with the switch on the front of the unit. With a cool to the touch exterior and auto shut-off, if overheating, your safety comes first. This personal heater measures 1.8 x 4.3 x 6.1 inches and weighs only a pound. You will also receive a three year limited warranty with this heater.
Pros
Energy efficient
Long power cord
Choice of colors
Safety features
Cons
Cannot be used to heat rooms
No temperature control
No tip-over protection
A little noisy
6. AmazonBasics Oscillating Ceramic Heater
Enjoy evenly distributed warmth with the AmazonBasics Oscillating Ceramic Heater. The quick to heat ceramic coils and oscillation provide you with a burst of heat, perfect for use in drafty rooms or underneath your desk. Choose between three heat settings – low, high, or fan-only mode. The manual controls on top of the unit allow you to adjust your settings easily and control the temperature; the power light will also alert you when the heater is on. With several built-in safety features like tip-over protection and protection against overheating, this heater is ETL listed. The built-in carrying handle makes it very easy to transport and it weighs just 3.52 pounds and measures 7.52 x 6.34 x 10.04 inches. This heater is backed by a one year limited warranty.
You May Also Like: Best Electric Fireplaces
Pros
Built-in safety features
Choice of black or silver
Quick heating elements
Evenly distributed heat
Easy to use
Cons
Not for use in high humidity rooms
Shuts off when on high setting due to safety feature
Short power cord
No timer
No remote control
7. Pro Breeze Portable Space Heater
For heating small spaces, the Pro Breeze Portable Space Heater fits the bill! Featuring advanced ceramic heating elements, this compact space heater is capable of heating rooms much more quickly and efficiently than traditional heaters. You have a choice of one of three settings, either high, low, or fan only. The adjustable thermostat control monitors your room temperature and heats your small room efficiently and maintains your preferred comfort level of heating. The manual controls are located on top of this space heater and are simple to use, simply adjust the dial to your preferred setting and temperature. The built-in safety features, tip-over protection, and overheating protection allow you to use this heater without any concerns. This heater is lightweight and portable, measuring 7.09 x 5.83 x 9.65 inches and weighs 2.86 pounds.
Pros
Lightweight and portable
Warms quickly
Easy to use manual controls
Ceramic heating elements
Long power cord
Cons
No remote control
Loud
Metal grill gets hot
No degree markings
8. Vornado MVH Vortex Heater
Key Features
1,500 watt
Ideal for use in a small-medium room
Unique vortex air circulation
3 heat settings
Adjustable thermostat
Built-in safety features
Unlike many space heaters that use intense heat that can sometimes become a bit overwhelming, the Vornado MVH Vortex Heater uses a unique vortex air circulation to gently heat the air in your small to medium room. This best value space heater has three heat settings – low, medium, and high – allowing you to control energy consumption and heating in your room; the adjustable thermostat also means you can control your comfort as this heater will maintain your preferred temperature. The included safety features ensure that the casing is kept cool and not hot to the touch, even after prolonged periods of use. You will also find that this heater has a safety shut-off if it is tipped over or if it detects that excessive heat is being used. You can easily move this heater from room-to-room as it weighs 3.76 pounds and measures 9.2 x 10.4 x 10.6 inches. This best value pick also includes a five year limited warranty, which speaks of its high-quality performance.
Pros
Whisper quiet
Easy to operate
Doesn’t get hot when in use
6 ft power cord
Compact, portable design
Cons
No remote control
Pet hair can get trapped, creates burning smell
Slow to heat a room
No degree markings
9. Brightown Small Electric Space Heater
Key Features
For use in rooms up to 200 sq. ft.
1,500 watt
Multiple heat settings
Adjustable thermostat
Built-in safety functions
Heat your small rooms in your home or office, up to 200 square feet with the Brightown Small Electric Space Heater. The safe ceramic heating element has multiple heat settings, all of which can be adjusted with the manual controls on the unit. You may set the thermostat to your preferred temperature; do bear in mind that if the room in which you are using this space heater is warmer than the thermostat setting, it won’t turn on. The heater will only begin heating once the ambient room temperature falls below the thermostat’s temperature. Handy safety functions such as tip-over protection and automatic overheating protection, you can run your space heater worry-free. The carry handle makes it easy to transport, as does it compact design – weighing in at 3.09 pounds and measuring 9.2 x 7 x 6.2 inches. You will also receive a one year manufacturer’s warranty.
Pros
Fast heating
Quiet operation
Compact, portable design
Safe ceramic heating elements
Fan only option
Cons
No remote control
Thermostat isn’t accurate
Temperature control isn’t the best
Grate can get hot
10. Lasko Designer Series Ceramic Space Heater
Key Features
1,500 watt
3 heat settings
Widespread oscillation
Adjustable thermostat
Unique, attractive design
If you are looking for powerful heating paired with a stylishly designed space heater, the Lasko Designer Series Ceramic Space Heater is the best design choice! With three heat settings – low, high, and auto – and oscillation, hot air is evenly distributed throughout your room, helping keep you warm when you need it most. You have the option of both manual controls conveniently placed on top of the heater, or adjust your settings and preferred temperature with the wireless remote, meaning you don’t even have to get out of bed! The built-in safety feature ensures that your heater won’t overheat even when running for long periods of time; the exterior always remains cool to the touch, preventing nasty burns. This unique and attractively designed space heater measures 8.25 x 8.25 x 16.05 inches and weighs 3 pounds. Your heater will also be backed with a three year warranty.
Pros
Auto mode
Wireless remote control
1 to 7 hour timer
Quiet operation
Protection against overheating
Cons
No auto shut off if tipped over
Buttons on the heater beep loudly
Remote control doesn’t display temperature
Not much difference between high and low settings
11. EconoHome Wall Mount Space Heater Panel
If you are tight on space in your home, the EconoHome Wall Mount Space Heater Panel is the best space-saving heater, ideal for a room up to 120 square feet. The way this space heater works differs from most heaters; heat is provided by convection currents that rise towards the back of the panel which is then passed across the heating element. The plugin thermostat allows you to adjust the temperature to your preferred comfort level; it is also compatible with a timer. Safety features like prevention of overheating and cool-touch casing, you can feel comfortable leaving your heater running while unattended. This wall-mounted space heater is very easy to install and features a paintable front panel, so it can blend into your room effortlessly once painted. Those that suffer from allergies and asthma can enjoy air that is not dried out, which is common in most heaters due to the fan. Best of all, it runs completely silent, so it won’t provide any distraction or interrupt sleep. This panel measures 29.25 x 26 x 3 inches and weighs 17.76 pounds. There is also a three year manufacturer’s warranty included.
Pros
Front panel can be painted
Can be hardwired
Includes plug in thermostat
Easy to install
Doesn’t emit any VOCs
Energy efficient
Cons
Doesn’t include heat reflective shield
Low heat production
Lingering chemical odor
Instructions included differ from online manufacturer’s instructions
12. Pelonis Electric Oil Filled Space Radiator
The Pelonis Electric Oil Filled Space Radiator is our radiator pick as it features large heating elements within the space radiator to heat the oil, providing warmth to your room. There is a choice of three settings and the thermostat can be adjusted to suit your comfort level. Unlike many other space heaters, this radiator does not make use of a fan, so you can are guaranteed a good night’s sleep as it operates silently. There are a few built-in features that assure you safety; there is protection against overheating as well as an auto shut off feature if the radiator gets knocked over. For those summer months when you need to store your heater, there is a convenient section for you to wrap up the cord. Perfectly portable with four caster wheels and a front carry handle, this heater measures 13.78 x 11.2 x 25.2 inches and weighs 18.86 pounds. This heater includes a 1 year warranty also.
Pros
Caster wheels and front handle for portability
Safety functions built in
Energy efficient
Simple to use
Cons
Exterior gets hot when in use
Slow to warm
No timer
13. Crane Personal Ceramic Space Heater
Key Features
1,200 watt
2 heat options
Cool to touch aluminum casing
Personal space heater
Shuts off if it overheats
The Crane Personal Ceramic Space Heater is available in two colors and features a sleek dial to adjust the heat setting from low to high or vice versa. Its beautiful aluminum casing remains cool to the touch, never getting hot enough to burn your skin. As air is forced through the heating coils, the warming process is sped up drastically and allows for a greater heat radius. This personal space heater is best used at your desk or you may want to place it atop your bedside table, but it is not intended to warm a whole room. Ideal for those with pets or children, there are built-in safety functions that will shut off it begins to overheat. This personal fan heater measures 8.5 x 7 x 5.5 inches and weighs 3.8 pounds.
Pros
Whisper-quiet operation
Sleek, modern design
Easy to operate
Quick to warm
Cons
No fan only setting
No thermostat
No carry handle
No auto shut off if it tips over
14. Honeywell Heat Bud Ceramic Heater
Key Features
250 watts
2 heat options
Single-button operation
360-degree tip-over protection
Cool to the touch plastic housing
Perfect for warming you, and not your room, is the Honeywell Heat Bud Ceramic Heater. There is a choice of two heat levels, all controlled with a simple, single button. Its compact design makes it perfect for desks, tables, or countertops. Your safety is in mind with this heater, as it offers a 360-degree tip-over switch which will automatically shut it off, as well as an, overheat shut off protection feature. The plastic housing never gets hot, so you need not worry about burning yourself. This heater measures in at 5 x 4 x 7.75 inches and weighs 1.05 pounds.
Pros
Easy to operate
Energy efficient
Quick to heat up
Protection against overheating
Cons
No fan
Chemical odor lasts for a few months
Doesn’t produce a great deal of heat
Set at an odd angle
No noticeable difference between low and high
15. Heat Storm Cabinet Heater
Key Features
1,500 watts
Ideal in a room up to 1,000 sq. ft.
Doesn’t dry the air out
Power outage setting recall
Child-lock
Includes wireless remote
The Heat Storm Cabinet Heater has a beautiful, modern look making it our best cabinet pick. Infrared heaters like this one provide powerful, quick heating; this model is capable of heating rooms up to 1,000 square feet! This space heater has a patented heat exchanger with HMS technology which means that you will find that your air is left unaffected – no oxygen or humidity is removed. The digital touch thermostat makes it easy to read and adjust; there is a handy power outage setting recall feature that will restore the temperature you had set if you do experience an outage. You also have the option to set the child lock, so they are unable to tamper with this heater. This heater will keep your air cleaner also as it includes a lifetime air filter that you can easily remove, wash, and re-install. In the event that something covers the vent on this heater, it has a safety feature that uses an internal sensor to automatically turn off the heater if it begins to overheat. This sleek heater measures 11 x 13.5 x 15 inches and weighs 13.07 pounds. A one year manufacturer’s warranty is included with this heater.
Pros
Includes optional caster wheels
Lifetime air filter
Protection against overheating
Digital thermostat
Beautiful, modern design
Cons
No fan
Quite loud
Takes a while to heat larger rooms
Grate on the front can get hot
Can’t turn digital display off
16. NewAir Portable Ceramic Space Heater
Key Features
1,500 watts
Best in rooms up to 250 sq. ft.
2 heat settings
Programmable timer
Wireless remote
Safety functions built-in
For the best space heater with a compact design whilst containing a powerful punch of heat, our pick is the NewAir Portable Ceramic Space Heater. Small but mighty, this space heater can cover a room up to 250 square feet. The LCD screen makes checking the temperature a breeze and allows for easy operation; there is also a wireless remote provided, so you can stay comfortable whenever you are needing to adjust anything! This space heater will keep you warm but you will find it doesn’t disturb you, as it runs at a whisper-quiet level of 45 dB. With built-in safety features like automatic shut off when tipped over and protection against overheating, you may run this heater without any concern or fears. This space heater measures 6 x 13.75 x 13.5 inches and weighs 8.5 pounds. Your purchase is also backed by a one year warranty against manufacturer defects.
Pros
Compact, modern design
LCD screen
6 ft power cord
Convenient carry handle
Choice of colors
Cons
Casing may get hot
Loud beep when changing settings
Doesn’t recall settings in a power outage
Thermostat isn’t always reliable
Features To Consider With Space Heaters
Cool Housing
For those with pets and children, cool housing is an especially important feature to consider prior to purchasing a space heater. The best space heaters will have a built-in safety feature that will keep the exterior casing cool to the touch, preventing any burns or injuries. When purchasing space heaters that have grates, or are radiator style, it is important to keep in mind that they do tend to get hot and could potentially be dangerous for a child or pet that may brush up against it.
Controls
The controls of a space heater can make all the difference between staying tucked up in bed while keeping warm or needing to jump out to make adjustments! Many space heaters feature only manual controls, while there are some that include remotes. If you are keeping your space heater in your bedroom and plan to run it during the night, you may want to opt for one that includes a remote so you can easily adjust settings.
Space heaters typically feature either dial controls or buttons; those that have buttons sometimes beep when pressed, which can be bothersome for people if pressed during the night when everyone is sleeping. If you are sensitive to noise, it may be a good idea to find space heaters that use the dial-style controls.
Design
The best space heaters are those that not only warm you up but may earn a spot in your home with its modern or sleek design. Winter sometimes feels as though it lasts for months on end, so you will want a space heater that is capable of keeping you warm whilst being attractive. Some space heaters are more compact and offer a sleek, modern look, whereas you can find others that blend in with your decor and may even look like a piece of art!
Handle
Portability is a really important consideration when you are looking at purchasing space heaters. Space heaters are intended to be used as supplemental heat, so you can carry them around with you and move them from room to room with ease. In order to do this, you will want to look for space heaters that include a built-in carry handle. The carry handle is also ideal in case your space heaters do get a bit too hot to touch. Some space heaters will also include caster wheels which help you easily move them.
You May Also Like: Garage Heaters
Heat Up Time
When you are feeling chilly, there's nothing like a space heater that provides a quick burst of heat, warming you through. Heat up time is a key feature and some space heaters, especially infrared heaters, may earn the title of instant heating. Other space heaters use coils that will heat up; most models do warm their coils quickly, but there can be a bit of wait time before you begin to feel any warming effects. Much like space heaters that use coils, radiator-style heaters will also need more time to heat, as the heating elements need to warm the oil within the radiator before you feel any heat.
Noise Level
As with many home climate appliances, space heaters may make a little noise when in operation, which many class as white noise. Space heaters with fans & oscillating fans tend to be noisier than those without, but the majority of space heaters will run at quiet levels. Generally speaking, the noise level of normal conversation usually is about 60 dB and you will find that many of the best space heaters run at much lower levels than this.
Power
Many space heaters are energy-efficient and will help you save money on your gas bill. Simply turn down your main heating by a few degrees and use your space heater as supplemental heat. The higher the wattage level of your space heater, the more powerful it will be - while remaining energy efficient. As space heaters can be very powerful, always be sure to read the instructions as many models are not recommended to be used on an extension cord as it could potentially become a fire hazard.
Safety
The best space heaters are designed with your safety in mind. Features like automatic shut off if your heater is knocked over or if it begins to overheat allow you to run your space heater completely worry-free. Some space heaters also have a power light that will stay lit when it is in use, so there won't be any accidental burns. Child lock options are also great for those with curious children who may try and tamper with the settings.
Size
The size of your space heater is an important feature, especially if you are wanting to bring it to work with you. Many personal space heaters are similar to desk fans in size, they can be just the right size to sit on your desk or underneath it. There are large space heaters available too which are meant for heating large areas, and lately, patio heaters are becoming extremely popular. Always check the difference to find out if the space heater you are looking at is intended to warm only you or if it is capable of warming a room up to a certain size. Size is also important if you plan to move your space heater from room to room, as large, bulkier heaters can be more difficult to transport than those that are smaller in size.
You May Also Like: Baseboard Heater
Space Heater FAQ
Q: Can you leave a space heater on overnight?
Most recommendations in regards to having your space heater running throughout the night is that it is not a good idea. However, with top-notch safety features like tip and overheating prevention, you are able to run your space heater worry-free. To ensure your safety while running your space heater overnight, be sure to have the smoke alarms in your home checked regularly to make sure they are working.
Q: Do space heaters use a lot of electricity?
The wattage level will tell you how much electricity your space heaters are using. While a figure of 1,500 watts may not mean a whole lot to you, you can plug it into this equation to determine how much it will cost you to operate your space heaters. Let's assume your space heater uses 1,500 watts and your electricity company charge $0.24 per kilowatt-hour and you want to run your heater for one hour:
- 1,500 watts x 1 hour = 1,500 watts used
- 1,500 watts /1,000 kilowatts = 1.5 kilowatts
Then, multiply that figure by the kilowatt per hour charge your electricity company has in place:
- 1.5 x 0.24 = $0.36 per hour
Q: Are space heaters dangerous?
Space heaters can be dangerous and the biggest danger associated with them is the risk of fire they may cause. As they use a great deal of electricity to create heat, they can easily overload a circuit which can either cause a power outage or potentially create a fire. Before plugging in your space heater, you should always read the instruction guide to find out the recommended socket to be used; many instruction manuals will advise which circuits to not plug space heaters into, as running a space heater and a microwave, for example, on the same circuit could be dangerous.
Space heaters can also tip over, which can create a risk of fire in your home. Some space heaters can also get very hot to the touch, which leaves you, or your pets or children, at risk for burns. The best space heaters will be designed with safety functions to prevent you from getting burnt, such as cool to the touch casing, and they will have automatic shut off features if the heater is using excessive heat or is knocked over. It is recommended you test these features when you receive your space heater to ensure they are working correctly.
Q: Where is the best place to place a space heater to heat a room?
Most space heaters are designed to heat you and not a whole room in your home, although some are capable of heating larger areas. The best place to position your heater is at least one foot away from the wall and with a three foot buffer zone from anything else to prevent anything catching alight.
Sources
Tips on Using Space Heaters - DIY Network
How to Use Space Heaters Efficiently - Networx
Space Heater Safety Tips - ESFI