Comparison: Best Portable Gas Heater Indoor (Updated | Dec 17th)
When winter’s chill sneaks through your windows, nothing beats the instant warmth of a portable gas heater. We’ve done the heavy lifting for you, testing and comparing the top models to bring you the ultimate guide to the best portable gas heaters. From safety features to heating efficiency, we’ll help you find the perfect balance of comfort and convenience.
Editor’s Choice
Best for a specific purpose
- Best for compact buddy heater: 9
- Best for powerful cabinet heater: Gasland MHA18BN Propane Radiant heater
- Best for durable outdoor radiant: Propane Patio Heater
- Best for versatile big buddy: 18
- Best for 2-in-1 heater stove: MOZODAWN 2 in 1 Propane Heater & Stove
- Best for tiltable heat hog: Heat Hog 18
- Best for little buddy heater: 3
- Best for massachusetts/canada approved: Mr. Heater MH9BX-Massachusetts/Canada approved portable Propane Heater
- Best for ultra-thin radiant: Propane Heater Indoor and Outdoor
- Best for outdoor camping heater: Portable Propane Heater for Camping
Product Comparison: Best Portable Gas Heater Indoor
Compact Buddy Heater
9,000 BTU Portable Buddy Radiant Propane Heater
Mr. Heater
- Emits 4,000 or 9,000 BTU/hr radiant heat
- Designed and approved for indoor and outdoor use
- Heats up to approximately 225 square feet
- Features emergency low oxygen safety system
- 2 temperature settings: low and high
- Runs 5.4 hours on low and 2.4 hours on high with 1 lb propane cylinder
- Constructed with self-extinguishing materials
- The use of un-authorized accessories/attachments with this heater are expressly prohibited, may cause serious injury, and will void the warranty.
Powerful Cabinet Heater
Gasland MHA18BN Propane Radiant heater, 18,000 BTU Warm Area up to 450 sq. ft, Portable LP Gas Heater for Garages, Workshops and Construction Sites, Ultra Quiet Propane Heater with LP Regulator Hose
GASLAND
- ☀【Safe & Reliable】Our propane Garage heater features with Tip-Over and Low Oxygen Shut-off to enhance safety. Since our small space heater is portable, they may be easier to kick down. The heater will shut off when it gets knocked over accidentally or the oxygen level surroundings is too low.
- ☀【Cut Down Your Electricity Bills】With the Gasland Portable Cabinet Heater—no electricity required. All you need is a 20lb liquid propane cylinder, and you’ll have plenty of warmth. Never worry about power outages when a hurricane strikes. The main advantage is that it helps reduce your electricity bills, with no risk of tripping over electric cords.
- ☀【Mobile & Space Save Design】The Gasland portable propane radiant heater features a convenient, mobile, and space-saving design intended for use in ventilated garages, offices, and workshops. Move this heater effortlessly from room to room, thanks to the built-in rolling wheels and Easy-Carry handle. The tank is housed inside the cabinet, keeping it out of sight, which enhances the heater’s aesthetic appeal.
- ☀【3 Heating Modes】 Customize the heating mode (High/Medium/Low) to keep your room comfortably warm. Delivers up to 18,000 BTU of heat, effectively warming spaces up to 450 square feet.
- ☀【Quiet & Multifunctional Use】The ultra-quiet propane radiant heater creates a serene environment for reading, working, and enjoying parties. Common applications include construction sites, patios, factories, sporting events, utility buildings, and farming activities (such as barns).
Durable Outdoor Radiant
Propane Patio Heater, 18000BTU Portable Outdoor Heater, LP Gas Radiant Propane Heaters for Indoor, Garage, Camping, Shop
Goocoz
- EFFICIENT HEATING: Our patio heater features three ceramic panels that quickly produce radiant heat, and you can adjust the heat output to 6,000, 12,000, or 18,000 BTUs. Built-in piezoelectric ignition for easy lighting. The propane outdoor heater is a great addition to any space, ensuring constant warmth during the winter
- SAFETY PROTECTIONS: As the indoor gas heater consumes oxygen, it should only be used in a well-ventilated area. The built-in oxygen depletion sensor (ODS) ensures that the propane heater will automatically turn off when oxygen levels are low. The tip-over switch shuts off the heater in the event of it falling over
- CONVENIENCE OF USE: Most parts of the propane heaters come pre-assembled. With the provided instructions and all the necessary hardware, assembly requires just a few screws. The casters allow you to place the heater anywhere, ensuring you stay comfortable in cold weather. Comes with a CSA-approved regulator that is durable and safe for long-term use
- WINTER ESSENTIALS: This patio heater produces far more heat than an electric heater and continues to work during blackouts and storms.. Ideal for patio, outdoor, small cabins, warehouses, garages and similar spaces. If you are using a propane heater indoors, make sure the area is well ventilated
- DURABLE CONSTRUCTION: Crafted from 0.6mm metal housing and 0.9mm thick bottom plate, much thicker than other heaters, ensuring longevity and reliability. Whether it’s a party on the patio, an outdoor camping trip, or a busy day in the garage, our propane heater provides constant warmth while you work or play outdoors
Versatile Big Buddy
18,000 BTU Big Buddy PRO Series Heater
Mr. Heater
- 4,000- to 18,000-BTU radiant heater for spaces up to 450 square feet. Approved for indoor/outdoor use; clean-burning; nearly 100-percent efficient
- When operating the heater at altitudes over 7,000 FT above sea level the heater may shut off. Maximum Hours Of Operation- 220.0
- Auto shut-off if tipped over, if pilot light goes out, or if detects low oxygen levels
- Low, medium and high heat level control knob for steady temperatures; connects to propane tank (not included). Note- Due to recent governmental changes to import tariffs, Mr. Heater has removed the fan on some models of the Mr. Heater Big Buddy (MH18B).
- THE USE OF UN-AUTHORIZED ACCESSORIES/ATTACHMENTS WITH THIS HEATER ARE EXPRESSLY PROHIBITED, MAY CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY, AND WILL VOID THE WARRANTY.
2-in-1 Heater Stove
MOZODAWN 2 in 1 Propane Heater & Stove, 13000 BTU Portable Propane Heater Indoor with Handle, Outdoor Heater Gas Stove for Patio, Camping, Tent, Ice Fishing, Garage
MOZODAWN
- 🔥【Multi-Function Camping Heater】MOZODAWN is proud to introduce our 2-in-1 heater and stove, perfect for your outdoor and indoor use. This portable propane heater allows you to cook and heat your surroundings with ease.
- 🔥【Stable Quality】This propane heater is equipped with a stainless steel threaded interface – resistant to rust, a high-quality heating element – providing a longer service life, an adjustable switch – allowing you to easily control the fire power, and a portable handle – making it convenient to carry this heater.
- 🔥【Fast Heating】Our camping heaters for tents has a maximum output of 13000 BTU, providing efficient 360-degree radiant heating. It can quickly warm you and your loved ones, even in the cold winter.
- 🔥【Triple Safety Device】Your safety is our top priority. Our gas heater is equipped with a tip-over switch to prevent accidents in the event of accidental tip-over. After the flame goes out, the air source is automatically turned off.Additionally, the ODS switch instantly shuts down the device when low oxygen levels are detected in the surrounding environment.
- 🔥【Package List】In addition to the 2-in-1 heater and stove, the package also includes an instruction manual and 5FT gas tank hose connector. Please note that the gas tank is not included. MOZODAWN provides you with a reliable gas heater outdoor to keep you warm on your garage, greenhouse, outdoor backpacking, camping, ice fishing, and hunting trips.
Tiltable Heat Hog
Heat Hog 18,000 BTU Portable Propane Radiant Space Heater, Indoor, Outdoor, Garage, Camping, Outdoor Sports, Boating, RVs, Tiltable Design, Gas Powered
Heat Hog
- Versatile Heater: Our small, portable propane space heater is perfect for the garage, tailgating, ice fishing, hunting, camping, or anywhere you need reliable, convenient heat quickly
- 18,000 BTU’s: This heater heats up to 450 square feet with up to 18,000 BTUs of radiant heat output, running on a 1 lb. LP cylinder or a 20 lb. propane tank (with accessory hose) and no electricity required
- Tiltable Design: The Heat Hog has a tiltable design so you can direct the heat where needed and has curved plaque technology that provides a 33-degree wider heating area than a standard heater
- Safety Features: Includes a rugged safety guard, a safety tip-over switch and an Oxygen Depletion Sensor (ODS) which detects low oxygen or accidental falls, automatically turning off the unit
- Explore the Heat Hog Collection: Discover the full collection of portable propane space heaters that include 18,000 BTU, 9,000 BTU, or 4,000 BTU heaters built for indoor or outdoor occasions
Little Buddy Heater
3,800 BTU Little Buddy Portable Radiant Propane Heater
Mr. Heater
- 3,800 BTU per hour
- For use with propane gas
- Heats up to 95 sq ft
- One button ignition on function
- 8in round stand; uses little floor space
- Accidental tip-over safety shut-off
- Automatic low oxygen shut-off system
- Connects directly to one 1lb propane cylinder
- Quiet, clean,odor-free operation
- The use of un-authorized accessories/attachments with this heater are expressly prohibited, may cause serious injury, and will void the warranty.
Massachusetts/Canada Approved
Mr. Heater MH9BX-Massachusetts/Canada approved portable Propane Heater
Mr Heater
- 4,000- to 9,000-BTU radiant heater for spaces up to 225 square feet. Approved for outdoor use; clean-burning; nearly 100-percent efficient
- When operating the heater at altitudes over 7,000 FT above sea level the heater may shut off.
- Auto shut-off if tipped over, if pilot light goes out, or if detects low oxygen levels
- Fold-down handle; swivel-out regulator; connects to propane tank (not included). Run Time (Hrs at Min BTU) – 5.6 Hours
- THE USE OF UN-AUTHORIZED ACCESSORIES/ATTACHMENTS WITH THIS HEATER ARE EXPRESSLY PROHIBITED, MAY CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY, AND WILL VOID THE WARRANTY.
Ultra-Thin Radiant
Propane Heater Indoor and Outdoor,18000 BTU Propane Patio Heater with ODS & Tip-over Protection, Outdoor Heaters with Gas Regulator & Hose Heat up to 450 Sq.Ft, for Patio, Garage, Camping,Workshops
Ruasveltan
- [3 Heating Modes Adjustable] Our propane patio heater have a heat output range from 6,000 to 18,000 BTU(High/Medium/Low) and can heat for up to 69 hours, supporting rooms up to 450 square feet. Built-in piezoelectric ignition for a convenient infrared heating experience.
- [Mobile and Portable] This propane heater features a wireless design and is lightweight, equipped with a wide fixed stand that combines stability and portability. Its ultra-thin design makes it easy to store and saves space. This indoor and outdoor propane heater is suitable for garages, courtyards, and camping scenarios, providing warmth wherever you go.
- [No Electricity Required] Cut Down Your Electricity Bills With the Portable Cabinet Heater—no electricity required. All you need is a 20lb liquid propane cylinder, and you’ll have plenty of warmth. Never worry about power outages when a hurricane strikes. The main advantage is that it helps reduce your electricity bills, with no risk of tripping over electric cords.
- [Dual Safeguard] The indoor propane heater features an automatic shut off in case of low oxygen surrounded(ODS) or unexpected tip-over. If used in enclosed areas or if tilted/knocked over, the propane heater outdoor will cut off the gas supply and turn off as a safety precaution.The front of the ceramic panel is fitted with a windscreen to block the wind when outdoors.
- [Quiet & Multifunctional Use] This ultra-quiet propane radiant heater is ideal for indoor and outdoor use, keeping your family and friends warm and comfortable during winter. You can place it in yard, take it on camping trips, or use it in any space such as a patio, garage, greenhouse, porch, cabin, gazebo, etc.
Outdoor Camping Heater
Portable Propane Heater for Camping, Outdoor Gas Space Patio Garage Heater, High Heat Output Big Heaters Foldable Tank Holder for Winter Tent Hiking Ice Fishing Hunting
GasCalorix
- PORTABLE PROPANE HEATER:Take the comfort of home with you wherever you adventure. Our portable propane heater is built lightweight and easy to carry, yet strong enough for the most demanding conditions. Portable heater runs on propane tank not Included. It’s the perfect companion for camping heater,patio heater,outdoor heater,space propane heater,camping heater,hunting heater,gas heater. Powerful heat output keeps you warm and comfortable whether you’re working outside or simply relaxing
- POWERFUL OUTDOOR SPACE HEATER: Propane heater heats up to 200 square feet of radiant heat output, 2S Quick Heating.Bring instant warmth wherever you go. a lightweight, compact gas heater with a foldable, stabilized base.Easy to ignite this camping heater. A must-have for any homeowner who loves the outdoors, it’s the perfect companion for outdoor ice fishing, garden gatherings, trips, and camping adventures,RVs, deer blind hunting,and more
- EASY SETUP & ONE-PUSH IGNITION CAMPING HEATER: One-push self ignition air shutter requires no extra tools. Easy to set up,with two adjustable heat settings, simply rotate the control knob clockwise (+) to choose your ideal temperature—from soft warmth to powerful heat. Tailor your comfort in any situation with this portable propane radiant heater. Perfect for garages, tailgates, ice fishing, camping, hunting, travel, sports events, or anytime you need fast and dependable heat outdoors
- EASY-TO-USE OUTDOOR HEATER FOR CAMPING TENTS: Designed with a protective front grill to prevent accidental contact and burns, plus a sturdy base that keeps the propane tank stable and upright during operation. The built-in brass connector ensures a secure, leak-free connection for consistent and safe performance. Ideal for outdoor activities,camping, patios, garages, and more. Enjoy extended outdoor dining and evenings outside with reliable, comfortable heat
- SOLD WITHOUT TANKS:Includes the portable heater and tank holder only. Runs on standard 1-lb propane cylinders — no electricity needed. Enjoy peace of mind with efficient, reliable heat wherever you go.We provide 1-year quality support. If you have any issues with propane heater, our support team is always ready to assist you at any time.Ideal gift for outdoor enthusiasts. A practical and thoughtful gift for family and friends who love the outdoors!
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Buying Guide
FAQs
What safety features are non-negotiable for an indoor gas heater?
You must choose a heater with an Oxygen Depletion Sensor (ODS), which automatically shuts the unit off if oxygen levels become dangerously low. A tip-over switch is also essential, instantly turning the heater off if it’s accidentally knocked over. These two features are critical for preventing carbon monoxide poisoning and fire hazards.
How do I choose the right size heater (BTU) for my room?
The heater’s power, measured in BTUs, should match your room’s square footage, ceiling height, and insulation quality. A common guideline is to allocate approximately 40 BTUs for every square foot of space in a well-insulated room with an 8-foot ceiling. Always consult the manufacturer’s chart, as a unit that is too large can waste fuel while one that is too small will struggle to heat the area.
What’s the difference between radiant and blue flame heaters?
Radiant heaters emit infrared heat that warms objects and people directly, much like the sun, making them ideal for spot heating in drafty or large open spaces. Blue flame heaters circulate warm air throughout the room, providing a more ambient and even temperature, similar to a central furnace. Choose radiant for targeted, immediate warmth and blue flame for heating an entire room more uniformly.
How long will a standard propane tank last with a portable heater?
The runtime of a 20-pound propane tank depends heavily on the heater’s BTU setting, but it typically ranges from 10 to 30 hours. Running the heater on its highest setting will consume fuel much faster than using a low or medium setting. Check the product’s specifications for its BTU rating per hour to calculate a more precise estimate for your usage.
Do I need to provide ventilation when using an indoor gas heater?
While modern indoor-safe heaters with an ODS are designed for use in well-ventilated areas, cracking a window slightly is always a recommended best practice. This allows for a small amount of fresh air to enter the room, preventing stuffiness and ensuring optimal combustion. Always follow the specific ventilation guidelines outlined in the heater’s instruction manual.
What extra features justify paying more for a higher-end model?
More expensive models often include a programmable thermostat for maintaining a consistent temperature and multiple heat settings for better energy efficiency. An integrated blower fan is a valuable feature that can significantly improve heat distribution, especially in larger rooms. These conveniences provide greater comfort and control, making the higher initial cost worthwhile for many users.
How important is portability, and what should I look for?
Portability is crucial if you intend to move the heater between different rooms or take it to a cabin or workshop. Look for models that feature a convenient carrying handle and a relatively lightweight design. For larger, heavier units, built-in wheels are a major advantage that makes moving them effortless and safe.