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When the temperature drops, a reliable space heater can help you keep your home cozy and comfortable without skyrocketing your monthly gas bill. Whether you’re looking to warm up a chilly office, supplement your home heating system, or create a toasty atmosphere in a specific room, the right space heater can provide efficient, targeted warmth. However, finding the right one can be difficult, so our team thoroughly researched and ranked the best space heaters on the market to help you find the perfect solution for your heating needs.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best space heaters of 2025, delving into their features, performance, and overall value. Read on to see our top picks and find the right one for you.
Here are our top picks.
Top 4 Space Heaters
*Links open to product retail page.
- Best Overall: GiveBest Portable Electric Space Heater
- Best for Rapid Heating: Dreo Space Heater
- Best Energy Efficiency: De’Longhi Dragon Oil Filled Radiator
- Best for Small Spaces: Vornado AVH10 Space Heater
Compare Top Space Heaters
| Product | Power Settings | Heating Technology | Coverage Area | Safety Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GiveBest Portable Electric | 750W / 1500W | PTC ceramic | 200 sq ft | Overheat protection, tip-over safety |
| Dreo Space Heater | 1500W | Ceramic | 200 sq ft | Tip-over protection, overheat protection |
| De’Longhi Dragon Oil Filled Radiator | 1500W | Oil-filled | 300 sq ft | Thermal shutoff, child lock, insulated wiring |
| Vornado AVH10 | 750W / 1500W | Forced air | 256 sq ft | Cool-touch exterior, tip-over protection, overheat shutoff, hidden cord storage |
*Links open to product retail page.
Best Overall
GiveBest Portable Electric Space Heater
- $29.99
Prices taken at time of publishing.
Pros and Cons
✔ Rapid heating for small spaces
✔ Highly portable with a built-in handle
✔ Multiple safety features
✔ Affordable price point
✘ Limited to heating areas up to 200 square feet
✘ Basic features compared to more advanced models
✘ You can’t set an exact temperature with the thermostat knob
Key Features:
- Dual functionality: 1500W/750W heat settings plus cool air fan option
- PTC ceramic heating technology for quick warmth
- Compact design with built-in carry handle
- Quiet operation (below 45 decibels)
- Automatic overheat protection and tip-over safety system
- Thermostat knob for maintaining the desired temperature
- 1-year limited warranty
What Customers Are Saying:
Users frequently praise the GiveBest heater for its effectiveness in quickly warming small spaces like offices, bedrooms, or bathrooms. Many appreciate its compact size and portability, making it easy to move from room to room as needed. Most positive reviews also mention the price, claiming it performs very well for such a small, affordable heater.
Some users mention that while the heater is powerful for its size, it may struggle in larger rooms or open floor plans, which is typical for small heaters. Additionally, you can’t set a specific heating temperature with the analog controls of this heater. Still, numerous users prefer manual controls, as digital display heaters often mistake their own unit heat for room temperature. Overall, customers find it to be an excellent value for its price, especially for heating smaller areas.
Best for Rapid Heating
Dreo Space Heater
- $39.99
Prices taken at time of publishing.
Pros and Cons
✔ Rapid heating capability
✔ Energy-efficient ECO mode
✔ Wide oscillation for even heat distribution
✔ Quiet operation
✘ Limited to heating spaces under 270 sq ft
✘ May make a humming noise while operating
Key Features:
- 1500W ceramic heating element
- Oblique Airflow system for fast heat distribution
- Three power settings: Low (700W), Medium (900W), and High (1500W)
- ECO mode for energy-efficient operation
- 70-degree oscillation for wide-angle heating
- Quiet operation at 37.5 dB
- Remote control included
- 12 hour timer
- 45-degree tip-over protection
- 1-year limited warranty (extendable to 30 months with registration)
What Customers Are Saying:
Many users are impressed with the Dreo Space Heater’s ability to heat up quickly and quietly. Several customers note that they are also impressed with convenient features like the remote control and multiple heat settings, allowing for easy adjustments without getting up.
However, while the heater is effective in smaller spaces, it may struggle to heat larger areas. Overall, the Dreo Space Heater receives high marks for its rapid heating, quiet operation, and user-friendly features.
Best Energy Efficiency
De’Longhi Dragon Oil Filled Radiator
- $149.95
Prices taken at time of publishing.
Pros and Cons
✔ Efficient and consistent heat output
✔ Silent operation (no fan)
✔ Low surface temperature for added safety
✔ Programmable timer for customized heating schedules
✘ Slower initial heat-up time compared to fan-forced heaters
✘ Heavier and less portable than some other models
✘ More expensive than other types of space heaters
Key Features
- 1500W heating capacity with three heat settings
- ECO Plus feature regulates power flow and temperature
- Permanently sealed oil reservoir (maintenance-free)
- Adjustable thermostat and 24-hour programmable timer
- Antifreeze function to prevent freezing in unattended spaces
- High-quality steel assembly
- 1-year limited warranty
What Customers Are Saying:
Users appreciate the De’Longhi Dragon’s ability to provide steady, comfortable heat without the noise associated with forced-air heaters. Some customers report that this heater doesn’t add much to their energy bills and helps supplement their central heating. Others note that the unit doesn’t dry up the air like a space heater, so it heats the room more naturally.
The heater’s low surface temperature is a key benefit for homes with children and pets. Although the unit can take longer to heat a room than other space heaters and the initial price is much higher, the consistent warmth, energy efficiency, and high build quality are worth the trade-off.
Best for Small Spaces
Vornado AVH10 Space Heater
- $72.79
Prices taken at time of publishing.
Pros and Cons
✔ Efficient whole-room heating
✔ Advanced temperature control
✔ Quiet operation
✔ Compact design
✘ Higher price point than some competitors
✘ It may be too powerful for tiny spaces
Key Features
- Auto Climate Control for maintaining balanced room temperature
- Two heat settings: 750W (Low) and 1500W (High)
- Vortex Action technology for efficient heat circulation
- Cool-touch exterior
- LED display with push-button controls
- Digital thermostat for precise temperature management
- 5-year limited warranty
What Customers Are Saying:
Users praise the Vornado AVH10 for its ability to evenly heat medium and large rooms despite its small size. Many also appreciate the Auto Climate Control feature, which helps maintain a consistent temperature without having to constantly adjust the settings. The cool-touch exterior is a valuable safety feature for households with children or pets.
However, some customers mention a slight plastic smell when running, which may be unpleasant, especially in small, unventilated spaces. Still, most users find the AVH10 a reliable and effective heating solution, and its 5-year limited warranty is a big purchasing perk.
What To Know Before Buying a Space Heater
If you’re in the market for a new space heater, there are a few things you should consider before pulling out your credit card:
1. Room Size and Heating Capacity
Make sure that the heater’s capacity can handle the space you want to heat. Sometimes, the heaters will even advertise their heating coverage in square feet. As a general rule:
- For small rooms (up to 150 sq ft): Look for heaters with 1,000 watts or less.
- For medium rooms (150–300 sq ft): Consider heaters between 1,000–1,500 watts.
- For larger spaces: You may need multiple heaters or a more powerful unit.
2. Heating Technology
Different types of space heaters use various technologies, all with unique benefits:
- Ceramic heaters: Quick heating, suitable for personal spaces
- Infrared heaters: Provide instant warmth, best for spot heating
- Oil-filled radiators: Slower to heat up but offer consistent warmth and are often more energy-efficient
- Fan-forced heaters: Quickly warm air and distribute it throughout the room
3. Energy Efficiency
Look for features like programmable thermostats, multiple heat settings, and eco modes to help manage energy consumption. Remember, the most energy-efficient heater is the one that’s sized correctly for your space. If you’re trying to heat a large space with a small heater, it must run all day to keep up with the ambient cold.
4. Safety Features
Any type of space heater can pose a fire hazard, so we strongly recommend choosing a heater with safety features to prevent fires. Some essential safety features include:
- Tip-over protection
- Overheat protection
- Cool-touch exteriors
- Underwriters Laboratories (UL) certification
5. Noise Level
Consider models that operate at a noise level of 45 dBA or lower—particularly if you plan on placing it in a bedroom or office.
Oil-filled radiators and some ceramic heaters are among the quietest models, with operating noise levels within 20–26 dBA.
6. Portability
If you plan to move the heater between rooms, look for lightweight, portable space heaters with built-in handles or wheels. Also, consider the power cable length for your heater since most models have cables that are only a few feet.
7. Additional Features
While all heaters have the same basic functions, some go the extra mile to incorporate the latest technology into their designs. A few extra features that might be more efficient or convenient are:
- Remote controls
- Digital displays
- Oscillation for broader heat distribution
- Timer functions
Some of these features may increase the heater’s price, but in many cases, the upgrade is worth the cost.
Space Heater Safety Tips
While space heaters can be an excellent source of supplemental heat, safe use is critical to preventing fire or electrical hazards. Follow these guidelines to ensure safe operation:
- Keep flammable objects away: Maintain at least 3 feet of clearance around the heater from flammable materials like curtains, furniture, and bedding.
- Place on level surfaces: Always operate the heater on a flat, level surface to prevent tipping.
- Plug directly into wall outlets: Avoid using extension cords or power strips, which can overheat.
- Never leave unattended: Turn off and unplug the heater when leaving the room or going to sleep.
- Keep away from water: Don’t use space heaters in damp areas like bathrooms unless they’re specifically designed for it.
- Check for damage regularly: Inspect the cord, plug, and heater for any signs of wear or damage before each use.
- Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors: Ensure your home has working detectors on every floor.
- Follow manufacturer instructions: Always read and adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines for operation and maintenance.
By following these safety tips, you can enjoy the warmth and comfort of your space heater without having to worry about the potential risks.
Space Heater FAQs
Can I use a space heater as my primary heat source?
While space heaters can be effective for supplemental heating, we don’t recommend them as a primary heat source for an entire home. They’re best used to heat small areas or to boost warmth in specific rooms.
How much does it cost to run a space heater?
The cost varies depending on your electricity rates and the heater’s wattage. According to Angi, running your 1500-watt heater for six hours a day will cost around $1.08 per day, depending on your electricity rates.
Are space heaters energy-efficient?
If you use them correctly, space heaters can be energy-efficient for heating small areas. However, central heating systems are typically more efficient for heating larger spaces or multiple rooms.
Can I leave a space heater on overnight?
We don’t recommend leaving your space heater running overnight due to safety concerns. Always turn off and unplug your heater before going to sleep.
How often should I clean my space heater?
Clean your space heater at least once a month during regular use. Unplug the heater and use a vacuum or soft cloth to remove dust from vents and surfaces.
Can space heaters cause fires?
When used improperly, space heaters can pose a fire risk, usually because of overheating components or outlets. Always follow safety guidelines and manufacturer instructions to minimize this risk.
Are oil-filled heaters safer than other types?
Oil-filled heaters are typically safer because they have lower surface temperatures and no exposed heating elements. However, all types of space heaters can be safe when used correctly.
Our Methodology
This Old House has empowered homeowners and DIY-ers for more than four decades with top-notch home improvement advice in the form of television programs, print media, and digital content. Our team focuses on creating in-depth product and service review content. To date, we’ve published over 1,600 reviews on products in the home space, including power tools, outdoor equipment, major appliances, kitchen gadgets, electronics, and more that focus on product quality and helpfulness to our readers.
To provide our readers with the best recommendations possible, we rely on several key sources of information to help guide our selection process.
Initial Research: Our research process began by generating a list of garbage disposals with a significant number of verified buyer reviews and an average customer review rating of 4–5 stars. We looked at positive and negative reviews alike, focusing on information from both satisfied and critical buyers.
Expert Insights: To complement our in-house expertise, our team looked at reviews and videos from trusted publications and independent testers, spoke with subject matter experts, and drew insights from reader contributions.
Final Product Selection: We then began fine-tuning our list by replacing older models with the latest versions and eliminating any discontinued models. From there, we compared each model’s feature set to create a final shortlist, selecting the best-in-class options for various buyers, budgets, and scenarios.
Once we conclude our research, we craft a comprehensive, user-friendly article of recommended products and additional information to help our readers make the right purchase.
Questions or Comments?
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