No matter where you live, managing indoor temperatures can be costly. If you’re looking for a more efficient solution, it might be time to consider the best space heater for your needs.
While smart thermostats and insulated windows can make a difference, they won’t fully address the high energy consumption associated with heating and cooling your entire home. Traditional systems often waste energy by adjusting temperatures in unused rooms. A more cost-effective approach? Investing in indoor and outdoor space heaters.
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Sure, you can pull on those cozy pajamas, candles, warm blankets, and more. Or you can add a space heater to the mix.
- Best Overall: Dyson Purifier Hot+Cool Formaldehyde purifying fan heater
- Best Value: Give Best Portable Electric Space Heater Safe and Quiet Ceramic Heater Fan
- Best for Large Room: Duraflame Electric Stove
- Best for Camping: Mr. Heater Indoor-Safe Portable Propane Radiant Heater
- Best Cordless: TABYIK Space Heater Indoor, Portable Heater
Whether you’re interested in a small space heater for your bedroom or the best space heater for a large room, there are various options to choose from. Electric space heaters are particularly popular for their convenience and energy efficiency.
You might explore battery-operated space heaters for portable warmth or propane space heaters for outdoor spaces. These versatile devices plug into wall outlets and offer precise temperature control, ensuring that you heat only the areas you use and avoid wasting energy on unused spaces.
So, if you’re looking to stay cozy without stripping your wallet, a space heater might be just what you need. Whether it’s a compact model for a small room or a powerful heater for larger spaces, the right space heater can make all the difference in maintaining comfort and reducing energy costs.
Considering the variety of space heaters on the market, we consulted with appliance experts to get their recommendations for the best indoor space heaters for your home.
Our team tested space heaters and spoke with Jeff King, who reviews home appliances on the YouTube channel Den of Tools, covering indoor and outdoor heating systems for almost a decade, along with input from Gary McCoy, store manager at Lowes, to find the best recommendations for you. Let’s get lit, shall we?
Best Space Heaters
Best Overall: Dyson Purifier Hot+Cool Formaldehyde Purifying Fan Heater
Pros:
- Delivers clean air at 46 cubic feet per minute
- Has a HEPA-activated carbon filter
- Comes with 10-speed settings and a remote control
Cons:
- Higher price point
This cordless purifying fan is extremely versatile and worth the investment as it’s exceptional at both heating and cooling down a room. It has an Air Multiplier technology, which is fancy Dyson speak for a system that warms and pushes out purified air. Once it reaches the ideal temperature it automatically shuts off, saving the user money and keeping things comfortable. The device also has a carbon filter that removes gases and odors, as well as formaldehyde, so it also triples as a purifying system, justifying the higher price tag.
Commerce Editorial Director, Barret Wertz, has owned and tested the model. He broke down for the Post Wanted Team while this is the best space heater overall.
“Most space heaters are going to have settings similar to a low, medium or high, but the Dyson Purifier Hot+ Cool Formaldehyde Purifying Fan Heater ranges from one to 10 in power, and allows for actual temperature settings, making it far more comfortable and customizable,” he says.
Wertz praises the heater’s coverage, as well as design features that minimize overheating risk.
“[Its] 360-degree oscillation means it doesn’t have to just heat in one direction either,” he notes. “I also really love the timer and night mode. Not only is this purifying the air while it warms, but there is no exposed heating element like most other heaters, so the risk of catching fire is practically nil. If you are worried about leaving heat settings on while you’re asleep or away, there is a sleep timer you can set so it shuts off automatically, and using the MyDyson app, you can turn it on remotely or schedule it to turn on remotely so the frigid room in question is toasty in time for your arrival.”
If the home space heater has any cons (and even the best have at least one), it’s the remote, according to Wertz. While he calls the design “intuitive,” he also mentions the accessory could be better for nighttime use.
“Although the slim, sleek, flat design of the magnetized remote makes storage atop the device easy and intuitive, it becomes quite the opposite when laying in bed surrounded by darkness, trying to figure out where which button does what,” he says. “Yes, over time I have managed to commit to memory “up” and “down” in order to regulate the airspeed, but if my middle-of-the-night brain requires anything more than that, I’m out of luck … and out of bed.”
Dimensions: 30 H x 9.8 W x D 5 | Weight: 12.6 pounds | Heating type: Corded electric purifying heater and fan | Wattage: 1,500 Watts | Heat Range: Up to 1,200 square foot | Special Features: Kills formaldehyde and filters gases and odors
Best Value: Portable Electric Space Heater Safe and Quiet Ceramic Heater Fan
Pros:
- Great value
- Dual cooling fan and space heater
- Lightweight, portable, and energy efficient
- Tip-over and overheating protection
Cons:
- Nothing to add at this amazingly low pricepoint
This is Amazon’s best-selling space heater and cooling fan. With over 8,000 customers purchasing this month alone and a rating of 4.3 out of 80,000 reviews, it is worth considering, especially at this low price point. Equipped with two heat settings (1500 watts and 750 watts), you can switch to fan mode when things get too hot. It is also extremely quiet, making it ideal for your home office.
Dimensions: 6.2 D x 7.9 W x 10.2 H | Weight: 2.99 pounds | Heating type: Corded electric ceramic heater | Wattage: 1,5000 Watts | Heat Range: Up to 200 square feet | Special Features: Dual fan
Best Fan Space Heater: Vornado VH10 Vortex Space Heater Black 1,500W
Pros:
- VH10 is backed by a 5-year satisfaction guarantee with the brand
- Two heat settings
- Lightweight and portable
Cons:
- Not designed for large spaces
This Vornado VH10 Vortex Space Heater features two settings ( 750 watts and 1,500 watts) and is ideal for those seeking a small space heater. It comes with an automatic safety shut-off and tip-over protection, plus is light enough to move wherever its needed. If you like to keep things tucked away, there’s also a place to tuck the cord when not in use and an integrated carrying handle. Although small and simple, we love the ergonomic and practical design.
Dimensions: 12 H x 11.7 W x 9.3 D | Weight: 5.1 pounds | Heating type: Corded electric heater | Wattage: 1,500 Watts | Heat Range: Up to 300 square feet | Special Features: n/a
Best Battery Operated Space Heater: Outdoor Space Heater Commercial Battery Operated Space Heater
Pros:
- Available in three alternative shades
- Portable and easy to carry
Cons:
- Can’t heat large spaces
This retro portable battery-operated space heater is easy to transport wherever you go. Keep it in the back of your car for outings or at the office for added warmth. While small, we’re impressed that the tiny but mighty space heater has multiple heat settings, as well as a fan, and some neat safety features, including being made with flame retardant material. It’s also quiet, so even if you’re BIO (back in office), feel free to use without fear of disturbing your deskmate.
Dimensions: 7.76 H x 3.44 W x 5.04 L | Weight: 1.7 pounds | Heating type: Battery operated | Wattage: n/a | Heat Range: n/a | Special Features: n/a
Best Space Heater for Large Rooms: Duraflame Electric Stove
Pros:
- Available in six shades
- It has a 0 to 24 hour timer
- Heat covers a 90-degree oscillation range
- 1,500 watts high-power space heater
Cons:
- A little pricey
NYP Review: “I absolutely adore this space heater. I originally purchased it because I wanted a fireplace but couldn’t find an apartment in New York that had one. Thanks to the beveled glass, this Duraflame electric heater was the next best thing with its believable flicker. The heat will automatically shut off after the temperature is reached, and it’ll pop back on if the room cools below your preferred setting.” — Emma Sutton-Williams
Dimensions: 23.4 H X 24 W X 13.07 D | Weight: 28.6 | Heating Type: Corded electric with infrared quartz heat | Wattage: 1,500 Watts | Heat Range: 1,000 square feet | Special Features: 3D Flame effect
Best Space Heater for Small Rooms: Dreo Space Heater
Pros:
Cons:
- Precise thermostat controls
- Tip-over safety switch
- 12-hour timer
- Some Amazon reviewers noted the touchscreen buttons can be hard to see
At 11 inches tall and 8 inches in diameter, this budget-friendly indoor space heater is also a compact choice. As a ceramic space heater, it’s lightweight and quickly dispenses heat. Great for use in smaller areas, its rear cool-touch handle allows for it to be moved or repositioned as needed, without the risk of burning your hand.
“Dreo is a newer brand that has surged to the forefront of the indoor space heater market in recent years,” King explains. “Their easy-to-use controls with large digital interface and modern design are a pleasant change of pace from many of the older units on the market. And it’s surprising to see all these features at a price point like this…I [also] found this heater safe enough to justify using it in our kids’ room.”
Dimensions: 7.32 D x 7.32 W x 11.02 H | Weight: 3.04 Pounds | Heating type: Corded electric ceramic heater | Wattage: 1,500 Watts | Heat Range: up to 200 square feet | Special Features: n/a
Best Portable Space Heater: Amazon Basics Ceramic Mini Heater
Pros:
Cons:
- Tip-over safety switch
- Low price point
- No adjustability, just an ON/OFF switch on the back
This space heater’s extremely shallow depth (under 4 inches) lets you place it just about anywhere without sacrificing space. Its ceramic heating element delivers warmth quickly, and because it doesn’t draw much electricity, it won’t significantly impact your power bill.
“There are many times when you don’t need to heat the entire room just the area you are in. This is where the Amazon Basics mini heater shines,” King says. “Whether you’re sitting at your desk or on your couch, this puts heat right where you need it. At 500 Watts it may seem underpowered…but for this heater, that’s kind of the point. Small, compact and easy to use, and at just under a pound and a half it’s also extremely portable so you can take your heat to go.”
Dimensions: 5.8 D x 3.4 W x 6.0 H | Weight: 1.43 pounds | Heating type: Corded electric, ceramic heater | Wattage: 500 Watts | Heat Range: Up to 200 square feet | Special Features: n/a
Best Space Heater for Camping: Mr. Heater Indoor-Safe Portable Propane Radiant Heater
Pros:
- Voted Amazon’s Choice with over 2,000 purchased this month
- Very light and portable
Cons:
- Propane tank not included
- Some customers have said it requires a few turns of the knob to ignite
With over 2,000 purchased this month alone, this portable propane heater is perfect for outdoor settings from camping to tailgating. It heats up to 225 square feet with a 1 pound cylinder tank. Runs out after 5.6 hours on a low setting and 2.4 hours on maximum heat.
One five-star reviewer said, “Great little compact heater…highly recommended for functionality and ease of use,” they enjoyed camping and found “was enough to keep us on the warm side, even though it was set on low. On low, I got about 5-6 hours and 4-5 on high.” Overall, it’s highly ranked at 4.7 out of 29,000+ ratings and sought after for portability.
Dimensions: 14.25 L x 9 W x 15 H | Weight: 0.6 pounds | Heating type: Propane heater | Wattage: n/a | Heat Range: Up to 225 square feet | Special Features: Low-oxygen safety shut-off system
Best Cordless Space Heater: TABYIK Space Heater Indoor Portable Heater
Pros:
- Available in two sizes, small or large
- Portable, lightweight, and cordless
Cons:
- Not great for heating large rooms
- Batteries not included
Tired of tripping on needless cords? Not anymore. Welcome this battery-operated space heater created to sit on your desk or near your feet for some toasty goodness without becoming a tripping hazard. Made of anti-inflammatory material and ETL-certified, the space heater has an overheating detector and is easy to carry around.
Dimensions: 6 D x 6 W x 9.5 H | Weight: 0.09 pounds | Heating type: Cordedless | Wattage: 600 Watts | Heat Range: n/a | Special Features: Tip-Over Protection
Best Retro Space Heater: Dr. Infrared Heater Portable Space Heater
Pros:
Cons:
- Includes remote control
- 12-hour timer
- ECO mode for enhanced energy efficiency
- Tip and overheat protection
- Doesn’t heat as quickly as a ceramic space heater
The infrared heating technology in this space heater warms you by being absorbed into your body — which means very little heat and energy are wasted. It also means the device can heat large spaces more efficiently, reducing the amount of power it draws while in use. The rolling wheels on the bottom also make it simple to move around as needed.
“When it comes to larger rooms you need a heater that can not only put out large amounts of heat but efficiently distribute that heat throughout the room. I’ve been using this heater in our living room for years and it’s easy to forget it’s even there,” King told The Post. “This device features a dual heat system, as well as a high-pressure low noise blower and an electronic thermostat that can keep the room between 50 and 85 [degrees] at all times. Its high-end construction and cherry wood cabinetry allow it to easily integrate into your living space and look good doing it.”
Dimensions: 13 L x 11 W x 16 H inches | Weight: 19 pounds | Heating type: Corded electric infrared heater | Wattage: 1,500 watts | Heat Range: n/a | Special Features: Overheat and Tip-over protection built-in with a 12 hour automatic shut-off timer
Best Lightweight Space Heater: SANVINDER 1500W Portable Electric Heater
Pros:
- Has a tip-over switch safety protection
- Easy to move around
- Includes remote control
- Oscillates up to 90 degrees
Cons:
- If air output is blocked, it’ll trigger the overheat protection and stop working
Able to reach 59-95 degrees Fahrenheit, this space heater heats a room instantly with a tip-over safety switch to ensure protection against any possible hazards.
NYP Review: “I bought the Sanvinder space heater in November of 2022 when I felt like the heat in my apartment was unreliable. Initially, it was used as a backup but my family started to prefer using the Sanvinder over the winter to feel extra cozy together. We eventually bought a second one to use on the other side of our railroad apartment. It is sturdy, reliable, user friendly, and I especially love having the remote available if it gets too warm in the middle of the night.” -— Michelle Moezam
Dimensions: 7.08 D x 6.3 W x 10.63 H | Weight: 0.03 pounds | Heating type: Up to 300 square feet | Wattage: 1,500 Watts | Heat Type: Corded electric | Special Features: Overheating and tip-over switch safety protection
Best Energy Efficient Space Heater: Utilitech Ceramic Tower Indoor Electric Space Heater
Pros:
Cons:
- Can be paired with a thermostat
- Built-in tip-over safety switch
- Includes 1-year manufacturer warranty
- No timer
- No energy-saving setting
This space heater is rated for use in small to medium-sized rooms and uses a ceramic plate to heat your space evenly. According to the home electronics review site Electronics Hub, heaters such as these that use ceramic plates begin to emit heat quickly and will continue emitting heat for some time even after they’re turned off. That makes them more efficient to use than filament or infrared heaters.
“With a perfect 5-star rating on Lowes.com, this Utilitech space heater is a fan favorite,” McCoy explains. “It features ceramic heating technology that reaches temperatures of up to 70 degrees Fahrenheit in about three seconds. It also comes with a carry handle and is made up of flame-resistant material, making this an all-around great option.”
Dimensions: 6.5.D x 17.5 H x 6.3 W | Weight: n/a | Heating type: Corded electric, ceramic heater | Wattage: 1,500 Watts | Heat Range: Up to 200 square feet | Special Features: Tip-over and overheat safety switch
Best Infrared Space Heater: Utilitech Infrared Quartz Cabinet Indoor Electric Space Heater
Pros:
Cons:
- Includes remote control
- The cool-touch exterior makes repositioning easy while in use
- Tip-over safety switch
- Size is larger than most small space heaters (over 1 foot in depth)
- Infrared heating doesn’t work as quickly as ceramic
While ceramic and filament space heaters work great, if you want an indoor space heater that truly helps you reduce your electricity usage, an infrared model such as this one is the way to go. Instead of attempting to heat an entire area, the device uses infrared light to directly (and safely) heat any objects in front of the heater — which reduces energy waste. Its digital thermometer also allows for program precise temperatures, so you can enjoy a personalized heating experience.
“This heater is safe, convenient and easy to operate with an adjustable thermostat and remote control,” McCoy explains. “This heater also has a UV LED light that helps to kill germs and viruses brought into the heater, and return clean air into the room.”
Dimensions: 13.5 D x 14.4 H x 11.4 W | Weight: n/a | Heating type: Corded electric, infrared quartz heater | Wattage: 1,500 Watts | Heat Range: Up to 300 square feet | Special Features: Overheat shut off
Best Kid-Friendly Space Heater: Lasko Ceramic Adjustable Thermostat Space Heaters
Pros:
- Over 11 heat settings
- Lightweight and easy for small hands to carry
Cons:
- Best for small spaces
This lightweight fan is easy to transport and priced in a range we all can appreciate. It has eleven different heat settings and an overheat protection system to prevent scary accidents. Thanks to its cool-to-the-touch exterior while on, it’s ideal for having around kids, as well as pets. More than 34,000 Amazon customers have helped it earn its 4.5 star rating.
Dimensions: 13.5 D x 14.4 H x 11.4 W | Weight: 3.2 pounds | Heating type: Corded ceramic electric heater | Wattage: 1,500 Watts | Heat Range: Up to 300 square feet | Special Features: Cool-to-the-touch exterior while on
Best ThermaWave: Honeywell ThermaWave 6 Ceramic Heater
Pros:
- Includes tip-over and shut-off protection
- Features a programmable thermostat
- Extremely quiet
- Energy efficient
Cons:
- Not great for heating large spaces
- A little heavy for the amount of square footage it covers
This ceramic heater has two heat settings, a fan setting, plus comes with shut-off and tip-over protection. While on the smaller side, the space heater can effectively warm a living room (up to 200 square feet) and other medium-sized areas with minimal fuss or noise. The programmable thermostat is a feature we love, especially for folks who like to set and forget. Although not our favorite for large spaces, it’s an ideal option for apartment dwellers and those with humble homes.
Dimensions: 18.1 H x 18.5 W x 7.9 D | Weight: 7.9 pounds | Heating type: Corded ceramic electric heater | Wattage: 1,500 Watts | Heat Range: Up to 200 square feet | Special Features: Cool-to-the-touch exterior and tip-over protection
Best Ceramic Space Heater: DeLonghi Ceramic Tower Indoor Electric Space Heater
Pros:
Cons:
- Includes remote control
- The anti-freeze setting automatically turns on to prevent frozen water pipes (when used in the basement)
- Tip-over safety switch
- Can make surrounding areas become hot to the touch while in use — may not be ideal for frequented by small children or pets
This indoor space heater has all the bells and whistles that maximize convenience and functionality. In addition to the ceramic plate and oscillating motor that provide even heating, this option has an ECO mode that automatically adjusts the heat output to keep its power usage at a lower level. An adjustable thermostat lets you dial in your desired temperature, and an electric fan transforms this device into a cooling machine during the summer — a smart two-in-one appliance.
“This ceramic heater offers a wide range of heat distribution with motorized oscillation and is best for small spaces and individual comfort,” McCoy shares. “[It] features a digital thermostat, 24-hour timer, full-function remote and fan function for year-round use.”
Dimensions: 23.2 H x 6.1 W x 7.67 D | Weight: n/a | Heating type: Corded electric, ceramic heater | Wattage: 1,500 Watts | Heat Range: Up to square feet | Special Features: Cool touch handle, thermal shutoff, and tip over switch safety functions
Best Tower Space Heater: Utilitech Ceramic Tower Indoor Electric Space Heater
Pros:
Cons:
- ECO mode to save energy
- Includes remote control
- 12 programmable times
- Tip-over safety switch
- Some customers report damage during shipment
While most tower space heaters have a heating panel that faces only one direction, this circular design allows for heat to radiate 360 degrees, which gives you more flexibility in terms of where you place it in a room. Its intuitive touch-panel display makes setting your ideal temperature easy, and the flip-up handle on top allows for easy carrying.
“This tower space heater warms areas up to 300 square feet,” McCoy said. “It has a large digital display with user-friendly remote controls, a thermostat and a timer function.”
Dimensions: 8.3 D x 18.4 H x 8.3 W | Weight: n/a | Heating type: Corded electric, ceramic heater | Wattage: 1,500 Watts | Heat Range: Up to 300 square feet | Special Features: Thermostat capabilities and tip-over safety switch
FAQ
What type of space heater is most effective?
For large rooms where a furnace isn’t feasible, consider a heater that reaches a lot of square footage. These heaters are designed to cover more extensive areas. Smaller spaces like an office or personal area, a compact, portable plug-in heater or a battery-operated model may be ideal. These options are convenient and easy to move around.
What type of heater heats a room the fastest? Heaters that utilize infrared or quartz heating technology often provide rapid warmth. These heaters work by directly heating objects and people in the room, rather than just warming the air, resulting in quicker heat.
What is the best space heater that uses the least electricity?
Consider heaters with energy-saving modes, such as those with a programmable thermostat or eco mode. Battery-operated heaters and those designed with high energy efficiency in mind, such as infrared models, are a good choice for reducing electricity consumption.
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Why Trust Post Wanted by the New York Post
For over 200 years, the New York Post has been America’s go-to source for bold news, engaging stories, in-depth reporting, and now, insightful shopping guidance. We’re not just thorough reporters – we sift through mountains of information, test and compare products, and consult experts on any topics we aren’t already schooled specialists in to deliver useful, realistic product recommendations based on our extensive and hands-on analysis. Here at The Post, we’re known for being brutally honest – we clearly label partnership content, and whether we receive anything from affiliate links, so you always know where we stand. We routinely update content to reflect current research and expert advice, provide context (and wit) and ensure our links work. Please note that deals can expire, and all prices are subject to change.