Comparison: Best Portable Patio Heaters Propane (Updated | Nov 6th)
When choosing the best portable patio heater powered by propane, it’s essential to balance performance, safety, and convenience. This comparison highlights key features such as heat output, fuel efficiency, portability, and ease of use to help you find a heater suited to your outdoor space and climate needs. Whether extending cozy evenings or preparing for cooler weather, a well-chosen propane heater can enhance comfort without compromising practicality. Explore options designed for durability, user-friendly operation, and reliable warmth to make an informed decision for your patio or gatherings.
Editor’s Choice
Best for a specific purpose
-
Best for best budget:
Cuisinart Portable Tabletop Patio Heater -
Best for best overall:
Mars Explo 50 -
Best for commercial grade:
Amazon Basics 46 -
Best for long battery life:
TemEase Propane Tank Top Heater -
Best for premium build:
GasOne PH-8000 Outdoor Heaters for Patio – 50 -
Best for best value:
Sweetcrispy 48 -
Best for large coverage:
Gasland MHA18R Propane Patio heater -
Best for economical choice:
Avenger FBDTP30 Infra-Red Tank Top Outdoor Heater for Use with Propane Gas Tanks for Camping -
Best for best features:
Amazon Basics 46 -
Best for compact design:
SISUPASSIE 15000BTU Propane Heater
Product Comparison: Best Portable Patio Heaters Propane
Best budget
Cuisinart Portable Tabletop Patio Heater, 11,000 BTU Outdoor Propane Heater with Safety Tilt Switch and Adjustable Heat, Burner Screen Guard, 30 sq. Foot Heat Range, Black
Cuisinart
- POWERFUL & EVEN HEATING: With 11,000 BTUs, this propane heater efficiently warms up to 30 sq. ft., and its reflector top plate distributes heat evenly across your outdoor area.
- SAFE & USER-FRIENDLY DESIGN: Features a built-in anti-tilt automatic shut-off and a burner screen guard, so you can enjoy the warmth with peace of mind.
- PORTABLE & VERSATILE: Lightweight and compact, this outdoor heater is perfect for patios, camping trips, and tailgates. Simply place it on a table for an instant outdoor heating solution.
- ADJUSTABLE HEAT: Portable heater allows you to set to your comfort level with the dial knob. Choose between low or high or in between heat settings.
- EXTENDED USE AVAILABLE: Use a 1-lb. propane tank or connect the patio heater to a 20-lbs propane tank (with optional regulator, not included) for extended warmth on longer nights.
Best overall
Mars Explo 50,000 BTU Patio Heater for Outdoor Use With Adjustable Heat Focusing Top, Portable Propane Patio Heater with Wheels, Stainless Steel Burner for Porch Deck Garden (Brown)
Mars Explo
- Powerful 50,000 BTU Heat: Our outdoor patio heater delivers an impressive 50,000 BTU of heat output, spreading warmth up to an 18-foot diameter. This propane-powered heater is perfect for patios, decks, porches, and gardens, ideal for both commercial and residential use.
- Adjustable Heat-Focusing Design: The umbrella-style heating reflector focuses warmth exactly where you need it, making this heater ideal for everything from outdoor parties to quiet evenings on the patio.
- Stable Conical Barrel Design: The conical design enhances stability and wind resistance, so you can trust it to stay in place even in breezy conditions. This upgraded shape adds a sleek, modern look to your outdoor setup.
- Enhanced Tabletop Functionality: Features a convenient round tabletop for placing drinks, snacks, or small items.
- Fast Five-Second Ignition, Easy to Operate: Start your heater in just five seconds with the one-touch ignition system. The adjustable control knob lets you tailor the heat output to your comfort level or turn the flame off easily.
- Versatile for Any Occasion: Perfect for use in outdoor settings like gazebos, tents, or screened porches. This standing propane heater blends warmth and elegance, creating a comfortable atmosphere for gatherings or quiet relaxation.
Commercial grade
Amazon Basics 46,000 BTU Outdoor Propane Patio Heater with Wheels, Commercial & Residential, Slate Gray, with Water Tank, 32.1 x 32.1 x 91.3 inches (LxWxH)
Amazon Basics
- SOOTHING WARMTH: Outdoor gas heater for cozy warmth when sitting outside; ideal for cafes, restaurants, and home patios
- EASY TO USE AND MOVE: One-touch ignition button for quick start ups; wheels for maneuvering into place
- POWERFUL HEAT: 46,000 BTUs for heating up to a 9 foot radius; adjustable temperature knob for controlling the output
- SAFETY FEATURES: Tilt safety auto-shut off valve; water box for weighing down the base and wheel kit; chain included to secure the tank
- DURABLE EXTERIOR & REQUIRES: Powder-coated finish in Slate Gray for lasting strength; 20 pound liquid propane gas tank to operate (not included)
- PRODUCT DIMENSIONS: 32.1 x 32.1 x 91.3 inches (LxWxH)
Long battery life
TemEase Propane Tank Top Heater, 30,000 BTU Portable Propane Heater for Outdoor, Patio, Camping, Garage, and Indoor Use – Adjustable Heat Levels, CSA Certified, Tilt Auto Shut-Off, Efficient Burner
TemEase
- Adjustable Heat Levels & Efficient Burner: Choose from 3 heat levels – Low (22,000 BTU), Medium (26,000 BTU), and High (30,000 BTU). Our larger, highly efficient burner ensures even heating without flame risk, making it perfect for outdoor and indoor use. When connected to a 20 lb propane tank, the heater provides up to 18 hours on low, 16.5 hours on medium, and 14 hours on high heat, ensuring long-lasting warmth.
- Safe & Certified – 45° Tilt Auto Shut-Off: Safety is our priority. With a CSA-certified regulator and 45° tilt auto shut-off feature, this propane tank top heater ensures peace of mind by preventing accidents in case of tipping.
- Durable Design with Full Protective Mesh: Built with a full-coverage protective mesh to prevent accidental contact with hot surfaces, the TemEase propane heater provides safe and reliable heating. Ideal for patios, camping, and winter fishing.
- 90° Adjustable Head for Flexible Heating: Adjust the burner head within a 90-degree range to direct heat exactly where you need it. Whether you're outdoors or in a garage, this propane heater offers flexible and targeted warmth.
- Portable & Versatile for Multiple Settings: Designed for patios, camping, and garages, this propane heater is easy to transport and set up. When used indoors, always ensure proper ventilation to avoid carbon monoxide build-up. Propane tank not included.
Premium build
GasOne PH-8000 Outdoor Heaters for Patio – 50,000 BTU Propane Heater Outdoor for Backyard, Terraces, Home Garden – Heavy Duty Gas Powered Outdoor Patio Heater Portable Propane Heater with Wheels
Gas One
- The Possibilities Are Endless: The Gas One patio heaters are incredibly versatile and can be used to heat up a wide range of outdoor spaces, including cafes, backyards, terraces, patios, balconies, home gardens and more!
- Create a Cozy Outdoor Ambiance: This propane patio heater creates a cozy and warm ambiance by emitting radiant heat that warms up the surrounding area, allowing your loved ones to comfortably enjoy outdoor spaces even in cooler weather. The gentle, consistent warmth mimics the feel of sitting by a fire, creating a welcoming and inviting atmosphere, inviting to relaxation, perfect for gatherings or quiet outdoor moments.
- 50,000 BTU Power: Our outdoor space heater has a powerful 50,000 BTU system and provides substantial heat output, effectively warming a larger area The powerful heat coverage allows for more flexibility in outdoor seating arrangements, reducing the need for multiple heaters. This 50,000 BTU heater can quickly raise the temperature, making it efficient and convenient for impromptu gatherings or events.
- Safe and Durable Construction: Unlike similar products on the market, this portable outdoor heater is made employing premium grade, highly durable materials, with a heavy duty stainless steel body, designed to withstand the test of time and weather conditions.
- Wider Heating Radius: The Gas One deck heaters for outdoor use measure 31.89 x 31.89 x 86.61 inches and feature a convenient wheel design allowing you to move with ease, at the same time creating a wider heating radius for improved efficiency.
Best value
Sweetcrispy 48,000 BTU Propane Patio Heater with Wheels, Patio Heater Deck Porch for Outdoor Use in Camping, Backyards, and Commercial, Double Layer Stainless Steel Burner
Sweetcrispy
- 【Powerful Outdoor Heating】 With an impressive output of 48,000 BTU per minute, this patio heater can quickly warm up a large area with a diameter of 18 feet, providing comfortable heat for gatherings of 4-8 people outdoors. Perfect for a variety of outdoor settings, this heater is ideal for use on patios, outdoor balconies, gardens, and more, making it a reliable choice for both personal and commercial use.
- 【Advanced Safety Features】 Our heater is equipped with a safety protection system that automatically shuts off the flame if the heater is tilted more than 45 degrees, ensuring safe operation. Additionally, the flame safety system will automatically cut off the gas supply if the flame goes out, providing peace of mind and added safety for users.
- 【Enhanced Heating Performance】 The Outdoor Heater features a double-layer stainless steel burner that sets it apart from traditional single burner heaters. Crafted from high-quality 304 stainless steel, this double-layer design not only enhances durability but also ensures superior strength and safety for long-lasting performance.
- 【Multi-Functional Tabletop Design】 Our propane heater is thoughtfully designed with a round small table top, providing a convenient space to place drinks, phones, or other small items while enjoying the warmth outdoors. Additionally, the heater features a round hole specifically designed for easy access to close the gas tank, adding to the user-friendly and practical design of the product.
- 【Effortless Portability and Stability】 This heater is equipped with convenient wheels for easy transport to any desired location. Additionally, anchoring spikes are included to enhance stability and security, allowing you to enjoy the benefits of the heater with added convenience.
Large coverage
Gasland MHA18R Propane Patio 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
- ☀【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.
- ☀【Run Time on a 20Lb Cylinder】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.
- ☀【Safe & Reliable】Our propane radiant 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.
- ☀【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.
- ☀【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).
Economical choice
Avenger FBDTP30 Infra-Red Tank Top Outdoor Heater for Use with Propane Gas Tanks for Camping, Patios, and More, Double Burner, 30,000 BTU, Silver
Avenger
- DEPENDABLE: 3 heat temperature settings (low-medium-high) for customizable heat settings, ideal for greater heat flow for your outdoor space; Durable front & rear wire guard for safer operation
- USEFUL: Hooks up in minutes, heats up in seconds; Great portable heater for camping Propane burner heads swivel up to 45 degrees for directional heating on top of the propane tank
- SAFE: Automatic Safety Control Valve shuts off gas flow to the patio heater if flame goes out; Match-light ignition, no electricity required; Safety tip switch so portable heater shuts down if accidentally tipped over
- ECONOMICAL: These low-cost outdoor heaters are the perfect solution when you need instant heat! 99.9% efficient. This small but powerful heater can run for up to 18 hours on a single 20 lb. propane tank
Best features
Amazon Basics 46,000 BTU Outdoor Propane Patio Heater with Wheels, Commercial & Residential, Havana Bronze, with Water Tank, 32.1 x 32.1 x 91.3 inches (LxWxH)
Amazon Basics
- SOOTHING WARMTH: Outdoor gas heater for cozy warmth when sitting outside; ideal for cafes, restaurants, and home patios
- EASY TO USE AND MOVE: One-touch ignition button for quick start ups; wheels for maneuvering into place
- POWERFUL HEAT: 46,000 BTUs for heating up to a 18 foot diameter; adjustable temperature knob for controlling the output
- SAFETY FEATURES: Tilt safety auto-shut off valve; water box for weighing down the base and wheel kit; chain included to secure the tank
- DURABLE EXTERIOR & REQUIRES: Powder-coated finish in Havana Bronze for lasting strength; 20 pound liquid propane gas tank to operate (not included)
Compact design
SISUPASSIE 15000BTU Propane Heater, Portable Propane Heater for Outdoor Use with 3 Adjustable Modes and Safety Shut-off Valve for Patio, Camping, Fishing, Garage
SISUPASSIE
- Powerful & Efficient Heating, Adjustable 3 Modes: SISUPASSIE propane heater delivers a robust heat output of up to 15000 BTU, featuring three heating modes (Low/Medium/High) for customizable comfort. Whether you're exploring outdoors or working in the garage, this outdoor heaters for patio quickly warms up your space, ensuring cozy warmth even in cold weather. The convenience of propane heater outdoor makes warmth accessible everywhere.
- Built with Durable Materials: This portable heaters for outdoor use features a premium steel construction and a safety guard to effectively prevent burns. This portable propane heater head rotates 30° to ensure even heat distribution throughout tents or outdoor areas. SISUPASSIE tent heater creates a warm and cozy environment during the coldest months.
- Comprehensive Safety Protection, Peace of Mind: The built-in automatic shut-off valve and tip-over protection switch of this propane heater instantly cut off the gas supply if accidentally knocked over, preventing potential hazards. With safety mesh guards included, SISUPASSIE outdoor propane heater effectively prevents burns. Designed for both indoor and outdoor use, this propane heaters for outdoor use ensures worry-free warmth for you and your family.
- Portable & Durable Design, Adaptable to Various Environments: Crafted from high-strength metal, this tent heater for camping is robust and durable, capable of withstanding harsh outdoor conditions. Its lightweight design allows for easy connection to a propane tank,equipped with a camping heater，making it the ideal outdoor propane heater for outdoor adventures, camping trips, and more. Wherever you go, warmth follows.
- Versatile Application Scenarios, Enhancing Quality of Life:Whether you're camping outdoors, working in the garage, relaxing on the patio, or traveling in an RV, SISUPASSIE patio heaters for outdoor use provide a stable and reliable source of warmth. As a good choice for propane heater, it fills every outdoor moment with coziness and comfort. This camping heater enhances your quality of life, keeping you warm and cozy with every use.
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 key features should I prioritize when comparing portable patio heaters?
Prioritize BTU output for heating range, safety features like auto-shutoff, portability (wheels or weight), and adjustable heat settings. Higher BTUs (46,000–50,000) suit larger areas, while lower BTUs (11,000–18,000) are better for small spaces.
How do propane tank compatibility and runtime differ between models?
Tank-top heaters (e.g., Avenger, TemEase) use 20-lb tanks for longer runtime (14–18 hours). Tabletop models (Cuisinart, SISUPASSIE) use 1-lb tanks but may connect to larger tanks with adapters. Check features for runtime details.
Which heaters offer the best value for small outdoor spaces?
Cuisinart (11,000 BTU) and SISUPASSIE (15,000 BTU) are affordable and compact, ideal for patios or camping. They balance cost, portability, and safety features like auto-shutoff, making them budget-friendly for smaller areas.
What safety features are essential in a portable patio heater?
Look for tilt/shut-off valves (all models), flame failure detection (TemEase, Avenger), and protective mesh (TemEase, SISUPASSIE). Heavier bases or wheels with stability spikes (Sweetcrispy) add wind resistance.
How do adjustable heating settings impact performance?
Models like Cuisinart (2 settings) and TemEase (3 settings) let you control energy use and warmth. Higher-end heaters (GasOne, Mars Explo) offer precise adjustments for larger areas, balancing efficiency and comfort.
Are wheeled heaters worth the extra cost for mobility?
Yes, wheeled models (Amazon Basics, Sweetcrispy, Gasland) are easier to reposition. They’re ideal for frequent use or uneven terrain but may cost more. Compact tabletop heaters are lighter but less stable in wind.
Which heaters are best for commercial or high-traffic outdoor areas?
Mars Explo (50,000 BTU) and Amazon Basics (46,000 BTU) provide wide coverage (18-ft radius) and durability. Their robust builds, wheels, and safety features suit restaurants or event spaces better than smaller models.