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 Portable Buddy Heater MH9BX is a versatile and powerful propane heater well-suited for various environments, including campers, workshops, job sites, and patios. It delivers adjustable radiant heat from 4,000 to 9,000 BTUs, making it effective for heating spaces up to 225 sq. ft. This range provides flexibility depending on your needs.

Its portability is enhanced by a fold-down handle and a compact design, with dimensions of 7.7 inches in depth, 13.4 inches in width, and 15 inches in height, weighing 8.53 pounds. This allows for easy transportation and storage. The heater includes several safety features, such as a tip-over switch and a low-oxygen shut-off system, which are crucial for safe indoor use. Ignition is straightforward with a durable Piezo igniter, eliminating the need for matches or lighters.

Fuel efficiency is another highlight, offering up to 6 hours of heat on the low setting and 3 hours on high with a 1 lb. propane cylinder. However, it also supports larger 20 lb. tanks with an optional hose and filter for extended use. Despite its many strengths, a potential drawback is that it may not be suitable for very large areas beyond its 225 sq. ft. capacity. Additionally, while the heater is efficient, frequent users may need to budget for propane refills, especially on the higher setting. The design is practical but lacks advanced aesthetics, focusing more on functionality. The Mr. Heater Portable Buddy Heater MH9BX is an excellent choice for those needing a reliable, portable heating solution with solid safety and convenience features.