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10 Best Portable Propane Heater 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Mr Heater 4000 to 18000 BTU 3 Setting Portable LP Gas Heater Unit with Dual Tank Connection for Indoor and Outdoor Use, Black/Red

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,148
BTU Rating
Safety Features
Ignition Type

Most important from
5487 reviews

BTU Rating
The heater is very easy to start with its piezo igniter and the heat produced is infinitely adjustable from low (4,000 BTU) to high (18,000 BTU).
Safety Features
The safety mechanism works great, with the heater turning off even with the slightest slant, ensuring peace of mind.
Ignition Type
The heater is very easy to start with its piezo igniter and the heat produced is infinitely adjustable from low (4,000 BTU) to high (18,000 BTU).
Fuel Consumption
I have found the Big Buddy Heater to be very efficient in its use of propane, saving a great deal of money by not having to use heat pumps.
Heat Settings
The heat output can be tailored to the exact needs of the moment, making it very pleasant to be near when the room is chilly.

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.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,148
BTU Rating
Safety Features
Ignition Type

Most important from
5487 reviews

BTU Rating
The heater is very easy to start with its piezo igniter and the heat produced is infinitely adjustable from low (4,000 BTU) to high (18,000 BTU).
Safety Features
The safety mechanism works great, with the heater turning off even with the slightest slant, ensuring peace of mind.
Ignition Type
The heater is very easy to start with its piezo igniter and the heat produced is infinitely adjustable from low (4,000 BTU) to high (18,000 BTU).
Fuel Consumption
I have found the Big Buddy Heater to be very efficient in its use of propane, saving a great deal of money by not having to use heat pumps.
Heat Settings
The heat output can be tailored to the exact needs of the moment, making it very pleasant to be near when the room is chilly.
#2

Mr. Heater Portable Buddy Heater MH9BX 4,000-9,000 BTU Indoor-Safe Propane Radiant Heater For Campers, Workshops, Job Sites, Patios & More - Red, Black

Rating
9.8
BTU Rating
Portability
Safety Features
BTU Rating
The Portable Buddy heater delivers great heat, providing the direct warmth of a toasty fire with the convenience of instant warmth.
Portability
The heater is lightweight and sturdy, making it easy to transport and handle.
Safety Features
Safety features like the tip-over switch and low-oxygen shut-off system are crucial, especially around kids and pets.
Ignition Type
Lights easily and efficiently, making it perfect for quick, reliable heat.
Fuel Consumption
Works well with both 1 lb. propane tanks and more economical 20 lb. tanks with a hose and filter.

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.

Rating
9.8
BTU Rating
Portability
Safety Features
BTU Rating
The Portable Buddy heater delivers great heat, providing the direct warmth of a toasty fire with the convenience of instant warmth.
Portability
The heater is lightweight and sturdy, making it easy to transport and handle.
Safety Features
Safety features like the tip-over switch and low-oxygen shut-off system are crucial, especially around kids and pets.
Ignition Type
Lights easily and efficiently, making it perfect for quick, reliable heat.
Fuel Consumption
Works well with both 1 lb. propane tanks and more economical 20 lb. tanks with a hose and filter.
#3

Mr. Heater MH9BX-Massachusetts/Canada approved portable Propane Heater

Rating
9.7
BTU Rating
Portability
Safety Features

Most important from
2267 reviews

BTU Rating
This little heater throws out an impressive amount of heat for its size, effectively warming up spaces like tents, garages, and cabins.
Portability
It’s super portable and lightweight, with a convenient built-in handle that makes it easy to take anywhere.
Safety Features
Built-in safety features like the oxygen depletion sensor and tip-over shutoff provide peace of mind during use.
Ignition Type
The piezo ignition makes starting it up effortless—just turn the knob and press the button, and it fires right up.

The Mr. Heater MH9BX is a versatile portable propane heater ideal for small spaces up to 225 square feet, making it suited for outdoor activities like camping or patio heating. Its BTU rating ranges from 4,000 to 9,000, offering flexibility in heat output to match varying needs. The heater’s clean-burning efficiency and nearly 100-percent energy utilization are excellent, providing warmth without unnecessary fuel waste. Portability is a notable strength, as it's lightweight at 9.5 pounds and features a fold-down handle for easy transport. The design, with a swivel-out regulator for easy propane tank connection, adds to its user-friendly nature.

Safety is a highlight, with automatic shut-off features for tip-overs, extinguished pilot lights, or when low oxygen levels are detected, enhancing peace of mind during use. However, it’s important to note that the heater may shut off at altitudes over 7,000 feet, which could be a limitation for high-altitude camping.

Ignition is straightforward and does not require batteries, contributing to ease of use. Fuel consumption is reasonable with a runtime of 5.6 hours at minimum BTU, though users should be mindful to bring sufficient propane for extended use, as the tank is not included.

While its robust safety features and portability are appealing, users should avoid unauthorized accessories to maintain warranty coverage and ensure safety. The heater is designed for both indoor and outdoor use, but the official recommendation is for outdoor use, likely due to ventilation requirements. This heater is an excellent choice for those needing a portable, efficient, and safe heating solution for outdoor spaces, though care should be taken when using it at high altitudes.

Rating
9.7
BTU Rating
Portability
Safety Features

Most important from
2267 reviews

BTU Rating
This little heater throws out an impressive amount of heat for its size, effectively warming up spaces like tents, garages, and cabins.
Portability
It’s super portable and lightweight, with a convenient built-in handle that makes it easy to take anywhere.
Safety Features
Built-in safety features like the oxygen depletion sensor and tip-over shutoff provide peace of mind during use.
Ignition Type
The piezo ignition makes starting it up effortless—just turn the knob and press the button, and it fires right up.

Buying Guide for the Best Portable Propane Heater

Choosing the right portable propane heater can make a significant difference in your comfort and safety, whether you're camping, working in a garage, or dealing with a power outage. The key is to understand your specific needs and how different features of propane heaters can meet those needs. Here are some important specifications to consider when selecting a portable propane heater.
BTU RatingBTU stands for British Thermal Unit and measures the heater's heat output. This spec is crucial because it determines how much space the heater can effectively warm. Heaters with a lower BTU rating (around 3,000-5,000 BTUs) are suitable for small spaces like tents or small rooms. Medium BTU ratings (5,000-10,000 BTUs) are good for larger rooms or small garages. High BTU ratings (10,000-20,000 BTUs or more) are ideal for large spaces like big garages or workshops. To pick the right one, consider the size of the area you need to heat and choose a heater with an appropriate BTU rating.
PortabilityPortability refers to how easy it is to move the heater from one place to another. This is important if you plan to use the heater in different locations. Lightweight heaters with handles or wheels are easier to transport. If you need a heater for camping or outdoor activities, look for compact and lightweight models. For home or garage use, portability might be less critical, but still consider how often you might need to move it.
Safety FeaturesSafety features are essential to prevent accidents and ensure safe operation. Key safety features include an automatic shut-off if the heater tips over, a low-oxygen shut-off sensor, and a protective grill to prevent burns. These features are particularly important if you have children or pets. Always prioritize heaters with robust safety features to minimize risks.
Ignition TypeIgnition type refers to how the heater is started. There are mainly two types: manual ignition and automatic (or electronic) ignition. Manual ignition requires a match or lighter, while automatic ignition uses a built-in spark mechanism. Automatic ignition is more convenient and safer, especially in windy conditions or if you need to start the heater frequently. Choose the ignition type based on your convenience and safety preferences.
Fuel ConsumptionFuel consumption indicates how much propane the heater uses over a certain period, usually measured in pounds per hour. This is important for understanding how long a propane tank will last and planning for fuel needs. Lower consumption rates are more efficient and cost-effective, especially for extended use. Consider how long you need the heater to run and how often you can refill or replace propane tanks when choosing a model.
Heat SettingsHeat settings allow you to adjust the heat output to your comfort level. Some heaters offer multiple settings, while others have a single setting. Multiple heat settings provide more flexibility and control over the temperature. If you need to use the heater in varying conditions or for different purposes, look for models with adjustable heat settings. For consistent use in a single environment, a single setting might suffice.
Size and DesignThe size and design of the heater can affect its suitability for your space and how it fits with your decor. Compact designs are better for small spaces or for portability, while larger designs might offer more features or higher heat output. Consider where you will place the heater and how much space you have available. Also, think about whether the design complements your space if aesthetics are important to you.

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