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10 Best Portable Gas Heater 2026 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Heatstar 30000 Btu Vent Free Radiant Propane Heater With Thermostat And Blower

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,110
Heating Capacity
Fuel Type
Energy Efficiency

Most important from
39 reviews

Heating Capacity
Great product, easy hookup, and works without electricity. The fan is a great addition, and it heats an 850 sq ft cottage with ease.
Fuel Type
This heater warms up a large area quickly. Gas heat makes the room comfortable, and my electric bill has been reduced significantly.
Energy Efficiency
This heater warms up a large area quickly. Gas heat makes the room comfortable, and my electric bill has been reduced significantly.

The Heatstar 30000 Btu Vent Free Radiant Propane Heater is a solid choice for those needing a portable heating solution. With a substantial heating capacity of 30,000 BTU, it can comfortably warm larger spaces. The use of propane as a fuel type means it’s quite efficient and convenient for areas where electricity might not be reliably available. One standout feature is its top-mounted adjustable thermostat, which allows you to control the heat output with ease. Additionally, the battery-operated electronic ignition makes it simple to start without fumbling for matches or lighters.

The heater is flexible in terms of placement, as it can be wall-mounted or used freestanding, thanks to the included feet kit. This adds to its portability, making it easy to move and set up in different areas as needed. Safety is a priority with this model, which includes a built-in low oxygen sensor to prevent hazardous conditions. However, it's worth noting that while the heater operates without electricity, the blower requires power. This means that during a power outage, the heater will still work, but without the blower's enhanced heat distribution.

The unit is relatively lightweight at 1 pound, so transporting it should be hassle-free. The black color and compact design ensure it blends well with most interiors. On the downside, some users might find that the need for an AA battery for ignition and power for the blower adds a layer of maintenance. Nevertheless, the Heatstar 30000 Btu Vent Free Radiant Propane Heater is an efficient, safe, and portable option that suits various heating needs, especially in areas prone to power outages.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,110
Heating Capacity
Fuel Type
Energy Efficiency

Most important from
39 reviews

Heating Capacity
Great product, easy hookup, and works without electricity. The fan is a great addition, and it heats an 850 sq ft cottage with ease.
Fuel Type
This heater warms up a large area quickly. Gas heat makes the room comfortable, and my electric bill has been reduced significantly.
Energy Efficiency
This heater warms up a large area quickly. Gas heat makes the room comfortable, and my electric bill has been reduced significantly.
#2

Original 540-Degree 45,000 BTU Tank Top Radiant Propane Heater

Rating
9.7
Heating Capacity

Most important from
4844 reviews

Heating Capacity
While the heat output is substantial, the main heat seems to radiate upwards. Tilting the heater improves warmth distribution.

The Mr. Heater MH540T is a powerful portable propane heater designed for outdoor activities like camping, hunting, and tailgating. One of its key strengths is its impressive heating capacity, offering up to 45,000 BTUs with three adjustable heat settings (high, medium, and low). This allows users to customize the warmth to their preference, making it versatile for different weather conditions. The 540-degree radiant coverage is another standout feature, providing wide-reaching heat by combining a 360-degree burner and a 180-degree swivel bracket, effectively warming both people and objects directly around it.

Safety is a priority with this heater, featuring a tip-over safety shut-off that automatically turns the heater off if it’s knocked over, preventing accidents. Additionally, the secure, leak-free connection ensures dependable and safe operation. In terms of ease of use, it boasts a push-button TE valve for quick ignition and also offers a manual match-lit ignition as a backup. However, it’s important to note that this heater is for outdoor use only, which limits its versatility.

Portability is a major plus, as it’s lightweight at just 5.5 pounds and doesn't require any assembly, making it easy to move and set up. On the downside, because it uses propane, it may not be the most energy-efficient option compared to electric heaters. The Mr. Heater MH540T is an excellent choice for those needing a reliable and powerful source of outdoor heat, particularly for active outdoor enthusiasts.

Rating
9.7
Heating Capacity

Most important from
4844 reviews

Heating Capacity
While the heat output is substantial, the main heat seems to radiate upwards. Tilting the heater improves warmth distribution.
#3

Mr. Heater MH9BX 4000-9000 BTU Portable Buddy Heater

Rating
9.4
Heating Capacity
Adjustable Heat Settings
Fuel Type

Most important from
597 reviews

Heating Capacity
Delivers reliable warmth in tents and small campers, making cold camping nights much more comfortable.
Adjustable Heat Settings
Easy to operate with quick ignition and two heat settings that effectively take the chill off in moderately cold conditions.
Fuel Type
Runs efficiently on propane, but smaller 1-pound tanks only last about 2.5 hours, so connecting to a larger tank with a hose is recommended for extended use.
Safety Features
Safety features like the oxygen depletion sensor and tip-over shutoff provide peace of mind during use in enclosed or semi-enclosed spaces.
Portability
Compact and portable with a sturdy handle, though it’s best to position it carefully as it’s not ideal for carrying around during activities like hunting.
Energy Efficiency
Produces no unpleasant odors and maintains consistent heat output without complicated controls.

The Mr. Heater MH9BX Portable Buddy Heater is a solid choice for anyone needing outdoor heating in spaces like campers, porches, garages, or sheds. It offers two adjustable heat settings—4,000 BTU for smaller spaces and 9,000 BTU for larger areas up to 225 square feet—giving you control over your comfort and fuel use. It runs on propane gas, compatible with small 1-pound cylinders or larger 20-pound tanks if you have a hose, though the hose and tanks are sold separately. This flexibility is great for portability and longer use.

Safety is well-covered with an automatic oxygen depletion sensor and a tip-over shutoff, which are important for preventing accidents. The heater also has a sturdy handle and protective wire guard, making it easy and safe to carry around. It is designed for outdoor use only, so it’s not suitable for indoor heating inside homes. Since fuel, hose, and batteries are not included, you need to buy those separately, which might add to the setup cost.

The heater runs up to 6 hours on low and about 3 hours on high, so it’s good for short to medium periods without refueling. This model is a dependable and portable option if you want straightforward, adjustable heat for outdoor or semi-enclosed spaces and value safety features in your portable gas heater.

Rating
9.4
Heating Capacity
Adjustable Heat Settings
Fuel Type

Most important from
597 reviews

Heating Capacity
Delivers reliable warmth in tents and small campers, making cold camping nights much more comfortable.
Adjustable Heat Settings
Easy to operate with quick ignition and two heat settings that effectively take the chill off in moderately cold conditions.
Fuel Type
Runs efficiently on propane, but smaller 1-pound tanks only last about 2.5 hours, so connecting to a larger tank with a hose is recommended for extended use.
Safety Features
Safety features like the oxygen depletion sensor and tip-over shutoff provide peace of mind during use in enclosed or semi-enclosed spaces.
Portability
Compact and portable with a sturdy handle, though it’s best to position it carefully as it’s not ideal for carrying around during activities like hunting.
Energy Efficiency
Produces no unpleasant odors and maintains consistent heat output without complicated controls.

Buying Guide for the Best Portable Gas Heater

Choosing the right portable gas heater involves understanding your heating needs, the space you want to heat, and the features that will provide you with the most comfort and safety. Portable gas heaters are convenient for providing warmth in various settings, but it's important to select one that matches your specific requirements. Here are some key specifications to consider when making your decision.
Heating CapacityHeating capacity is measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs) and indicates how much heat the heater can produce. This spec is crucial because it determines how effectively the heater can warm up your space. For small rooms or personal use, a heater with lower BTUs (around 3,000-5,000) may be sufficient. For larger areas or outdoor spaces, you might need a heater with higher BTUs (10,000-20,000 or more). Consider the size of the area you need to heat and choose a heater with an appropriate BTU rating to ensure comfort.
Fuel TypePortable gas heaters can use different types of fuel, such as propane or butane. The fuel type affects the heater's performance, portability, and cost of operation. Propane heaters are generally more powerful and suitable for larger spaces or outdoor use, while butane heaters are often more compact and ideal for indoor use. Think about where you will be using the heater and how easy it is to access and store the fuel type you choose.
Safety FeaturesSafety features are essential to prevent accidents and ensure safe operation. Look for heaters with features like tip-over protection, which automatically shuts off the heater if it falls over, and oxygen depletion sensors, which turn off the heater if oxygen levels drop too low. These features are particularly important if you plan to use the heater in enclosed spaces or around children and pets. Prioritize heaters with robust safety mechanisms to ensure peace of mind.
PortabilityPortability refers to how easy it is to move the heater from one place to another. This spec is important if you need to frequently relocate the heater or use it in different areas. Consider the weight, size, and design of the heater. Lightweight and compact models are easier to carry and store, while larger models may offer more heating power but can be cumbersome to move. Choose a heater that balances portability with your heating needs.
Adjustable Heat SettingsAdjustable heat settings allow you to control the level of heat output, providing flexibility and comfort. This feature is important because it lets you customize the warmth according to your preference and the current temperature. Heaters with multiple heat settings can be more versatile, catering to different heating needs throughout the day or season. Look for models with easy-to-use controls and a range of settings to maximize comfort.
Energy EfficiencyEnergy efficiency indicates how effectively the heater converts fuel into heat. This spec is important for reducing fuel consumption and operating costs. Efficient heaters provide more heat with less fuel, making them more economical and environmentally friendly. Check for heaters with high efficiency ratings or features like thermostats that help maintain a consistent temperature without wasting fuel. Choose an energy-efficient model to save on fuel costs and minimize environmental impact.

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