10 Best Portable Propane Heater 2025 in the United States

The Mr. Heater Big Buddy Pro Series is a portable propane heater that offers flexible heating with power ranging from 4,000 to 18,000 BTUs, suitable for rooms up to about 450 square feet. It’s designed for both indoor and outdoor use, making it a versatile choice for spaces like garages, offices, patios, or small living areas. Portability is good, thanks to its relatively light weight of 11 pounds and compact pedestal design, so you can move it around as needed.

Safety features are a strong point: it automatically shuts off if tipped over, if the pilot light goes out, or if it senses low oxygen levels, which makes it safer for indoor use. The heater uses a reliable radiant burner and requires 4 D batteries for ignition, which means it doesn’t rely on electricity but does need battery replacements. You can adjust the heat with three settings (low, medium, high), providing control over your comfort and fuel use, although actual fuel consumption depends on the setting and propane tank size (not included). The heater runs up to 220 hours on a standard tank, which is decent for its class.

A potential limitation is that it may shut off automatically at high altitudes (above 7,000 feet), which could be an issue if you live in or visit mountainous areas. Also, some newer models no longer include a fan due to tariff impacts, which means heat distribution may be less even compared to fan-equipped heaters. The size is manageable but take note of the dimensions (18.5"D x 18"W x 11.4"H) to ensure it fits your space. This heater is a reliable, safe, and efficient option for those needing portable propane heating indoors or outdoors, especially where ventilation is adequate and altitude limits are considered.

The Cuisinart COH-500 Portable Tabletop Patio Heater is a solid choice if you're looking for an outdoor heating solution for smaller spaces, such as patios or camping sites. With an 11,000 BTU rating, it efficiently warms up to 100 square feet, making it quite powerful for its compact size. Its reflector top plate ensures the heat is distributed evenly, which adds to its effectiveness in keeping your outdoor space warm and comfortable.

The heater is designed with safety in mind, featuring an automatic shut-off if tilted and a burner screen guard to prevent accidents, so you can use it without worrying about safety hazards. Portability is one of its standout features. It’s lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry around and place on any tabletop. This makes it ideal for various outdoor activities like camping trips or tailgates. The heater uses either a 1-lb. propane tank for short-term use or can be connected to a larger 20-lb. tank (with an optional hose and regulator, which are not included) for extended heating sessions. This flexibility can be convenient, although the need to purchase additional accessories for longer use might be seen as a drawback.

Additionally, the heater does not appear to have multiple heat settings, which may limit its versatility for different temperature preferences. In terms of design, it is sleek and black, fitting well with most outdoor decors. However, being a tabletop unit, its small size might not be suitable for larger gatherings or more extensive outdoor spaces. To summarize, the Cuisinart COH-500 is a reliable and effective portable propane heater best suited for smaller areas and occasional use, boasting easy portability and important safety features.

The Mr Heater 4000 to 18000 BTU Portable LP Gas Heater is a versatile option suitable for heating various spaces, including camping sites, sheds, patios, and more. With a BTU rating ranging from 4,000 to 18,000, it offers three heat settings, allowing users to adjust the warmth according to their needs. The heater can cover up to 450 square feet, making it ideal for medium-sized areas. Its dual tank connection feature adds convenience, enabling it to connect to a pair of 1 lb propane tanks, though hoses, filters, and propane are not included in the package.

Safety is a key consideration with automatic tip-over shutoff and low-oxygen safety shutoff mechanisms in place. The piezo igniter ensures reliable ignition, and the single control knob simplifies operation. Weighing 15 pounds and designed with portability in mind, the heater is easy to move around. However, users should be aware that it doesn't come with the necessary accessories for immediate use and might require additional purchases.

The heater boasts a solid 4.6 out of 5 stars rating from over 5,000 reviews, indicating high customer satisfaction. Its compact design and floor mount make it suitable for various indoor and outdoor settings. Despite being made in China, it offers a 1-year warranty, providing a measure of reliability. This product is particularly beneficial for those looking for a portable, safe, and efficient heating solution for both indoor and outdoor use.