Comparison: Best Space Heater Wirecutter (Updated | Dec 17th)
When winter’s chill seeps through your windows, finding the perfect space heater becomes a top priority. Wirecutter’s team of experts has done the heavy lifting, testing dozens of models to bring you the definitive guide to staying warm. From whisper-quiet ceramic heaters to powerful infrared options, we’ll break down which models deliver the best performance, safety features, and value for your money. Say goodbye to shivering and hello to cozy comfort with our top picks that have earned Wirecutter’s seal of approval.
Editor’s Choice
Best for a specific purpose
- Best for precision wire cutter: SPEEDWOX Long Reach Diagonal Pliers 6 Inches Mini Fine Wire Cutting Plier Slim Plastic Nippers Precision Side Cutting Micro Wire Cutters for Hard to Reach Narrow Spaces High Leverage Reduce Efforts
- Best for versatile grip tool: SPEEDWOX Long Reach Long Nose Pliers 6 Inches Mini Wire Cutter Side Cutting Slim Precision Fine Pliers for Hard to Reach Narrow Spaces Serrated Jaws High Leverage Reduce Efforts Non-slip Handles
- Best for premium silicone coasters: LINE+ARC Extra Thick Silicone Coasters (As Seen in NYTimes WireCutter) Waterproof Anti-Stain Heat-Safe Dishwasher-Safe Degrē Coasters (Set of 6
- Best for professional cable cutter: LANSGA Professional Diagonal Pliers
- Best for critics’ choice coasters: LINE+ARC Extra Thick Silicone Coasters (As Seen in NYTimes WireCutter) Waterproof Anti-Stain Heat-Safe Dishwasher-Safe Degrē Coasters (Set of 6
- Best for compact precision tool: Diagonal Pliers Wire Cutter Pliers Anti Slip Hand Tool with Seamless Blade Sharpness Jaws for Small Space Operation PVC Material Handle
- Best for long reach cutter: SPEEDWOX Side cutter Long Reach Diagonal Pliers 6 Inch Mini Fine Wire Cutting Plier Nippers High Leverage Reduce Efforts Precision Micro Wire Cutters for Hard to Reach Narrow Spaces
- Best for electronics specialist: Electronic Cutting Pliers Diagonal Cutting Nippers Wire Cutter Professional Precision Hardened Blades for Narrow Space Work PVC Grip Stainless Steel BANGYE 303 131mm
- Best for redesigned stability coasters: LINE+ARC Extra Thick Silicone Coasters (As Seen in NYTimes WireCutter) Waterproof Anti-Stain Heat-Safe Dishwasher-Safe Degrē Coasters (Set of 6
- Best for ergonomic wire shears: Anti Slip Diagonal Pliers
Product Comparison: Best Space Heater Wirecutter
Precision Wire Cutter
SPEEDWOX Long Reach Diagonal Pliers 6 Inches Mini Fine Wire Cutting Plier Slim Plastic Nippers Precision Side Cutting Micro Wire Cutters for Hard to Reach Narrow Spaces High Leverage Reduce Efforts
SPEEDWOX
- 【USAGE】 long-reach design combined with the compact size makes the pliers ideal for use in confined areas. Twin blades can cut soft materials such as soft wires, aluminum, soft-alloy, cable ties, guitar strings, trim plastic components and flush sprues. A must-have tool set for automotive work, mechanics work, jewelry making, art and craft, and other hobby work.
- 【DESIGN】 High leverage design for superior cutting ability. Heat treated joint rivet for smooth and consistent operation. Bi-color TPR handles for anti-slip and comfort grip. The double leaf spring action reduces hand and wrist fatigue for easy one-handed operation.
- 【DIMENSION】 (150 x 51.5 x 14.5)mm / (L x W x H). (Some oil on the surface to keep pliers free of rust, it will not affect the performance just wipe it clean with a rag or old towel.)
- 【MATERIAL】 Drop forged high carbon steel and heat treated for strength and durability, additional nickel-iron plating improves the corrosion resistance of the surface and effectively prolong the service life of the plier.
- 【ANTI-RUST OIL】 The anti-rust oil may be appeared on the pliers, it can protect the pliers from rusting. It’s not dirty or used products, you can clean it with a towel and it will not effect the function.
Versatile Grip Tool
SPEEDWOX Long Reach Long Nose Pliers 6 Inches Mini Wire Cutter Side Cutting Slim Precision Fine Pliers for Hard to Reach Narrow Spaces Serrated Jaws High Leverage Reduce Efforts Non-slip Handles
SPEEDWOX
- 【USAGE】 long-reach design combined with the compact size makes the pliers ideal for use in confined areas. The serrated jaws will provide the maximum gripping strength for the users. Twin blades can be used for cutting and bending soft wires such as iron wire, aluminum wire, alloy wire, cable tie and guitar string. A must-have tool set for automotive work, mechanics work, jewelry making, art and craft, and other hobby work.
- 【DESIGN】 High leverage design for superior cutting ability. Heat treated joint rivet for smooth and consistent operation. Bi-color TPR handles for anti-slip and comfort grip. The double leaf spring action reduces hand and wrist fatigue for easy one-handed operation.
- 【DIMENSION】 (160 x 55 x 14.5)mm / (L x W x H). (Some oil on the surface to keep pliers free of rust, it will not affect the performance just wipe it clean with a rag or old towel.)
- 【MATERIAL】 Drop forged high carbon steel and heat treated for strength and durability, additional nickel-iron plating improves the corrosion resistance of the surface and effectively prolong the service life of the plier.
- 【ANTI-RUST OIL】 The antirust oil may be appeared on the pliers, it can protect the pliers from rusting. It’s not dirty or used products, you can clean it with a towel and it will not effect the function.
Premium Silicone Coasters
LINE+ARC Extra Thick Silicone Coasters (As Seen in NYTimes WireCutter) Waterproof Anti-Stain Heat-Safe Dishwasher-Safe Degrē Coasters (Set of 6, Joshua Tree) Outdoor Rubber Mid-Century Modern
LINE+ARC
- CRITICS ARE OBSESSED — Featured by NYT Wirecutter, Glamour, FOOD & WINE, ELLE Decor, WSJ BuySide, and BuzzFeed
- SERIOUSLY STABLE — Redesigned base resists tipping, just like you asked
- EFFORTLESS CLEANUP — Waterproof, stain-resistant, and totally dishwasher-safe
- PREMIUM SILICONE — Food-safe, non-slip, BPA-free, scratch-free, and heat-proof to 500°F
- NO-CLING RIDGES — Smart grooves catch condensation and prevent coasters from clinging to cups
- HOLDER-FREE STACK — Top-to-bottom interlocking design keeps coasters neatly in place without a holder, reducing tabletop clutter.
- 3 STUNNING COLORS — Each set contains 3 distinct yet cohesive colors meticulously developed by founder and pro colorist Grace Lew
Professional Cable Cutter
LANSGA Professional Diagonal Pliers, Cable Cutting Pliers with Tail Spring Design, Heat Treated Sharp Blade, Durable Wire Cutter Tool
Generic
- TAIL SPRING DESIGN: Features an integrated tail spring mechanism that automatically opens the pliers after each cut, reducing hand fatigue and making repetitive cutting tasks more efficient and effort-saving
- HEAT TREATED SHARP BLADE: Cutting edges undergo high frequency wave heat treatment for exceptional sharpness and durability, ensuring clean, precise cuts through cables and wires without fraying or crushing
- PROFESSIONAL DIAGONAL CUTTING: Specially designed for cutting cables, wires, and other electrical components with angled cutting jaws that provide optimal leverage and access in tight spaces
- COMFORTABLE GRIP HANDLES: Ergonomically designed handles with soft rubber coating in black and red provide a secure, non-slip grip for comfortable use during extended maintenance and repair operations
- DURABLE CONSTRUCTION: Built with high-quality materials and precision engineering to withstand demanding professional use, making it an essential tool for electricians, technicians, and DIY enthusiasts
Critics’ Choice Coasters
LINE+ARC Extra Thick Silicone Coasters (As Seen in NYTimes WireCutter) Waterproof Anti-Stain Heat-Safe Dishwasher-Safe Degrē Coasters (Set of 6, Smoke) Outdoor Rubber Mid-Century Modern
LINE+ARC
- CRITICS ARE OBSESSED — Featured by NYT Wirecutter, Glamour, FOOD & WINE, ELLE Decor, WSJ BuySide, and BuzzFeed
- SERIOUSLY STABLE — Redesigned base resists tipping, just like you asked
- EFFORTLESS CLEANUP — Waterproof, stain-resistant, and totally dishwasher-safe
- PREMIUM SILICONE — Food-safe, non-slip, BPA-free, scratch-free, and heat-proof to 500°F
- NO-CLING RIDGES — Smart grooves catch condensation and prevent coasters from clinging to cups
- HOLDER-FREE STACK — Top-to-bottom interlocking design keeps coasters neatly in place without a holder, reducing tabletop clutter.
- 3 STUNNING COLORS — Each set contains 3 distinct yet cohesive colors meticulously developed by founder and pro colorist Grace Lew
Compact Precision Tool
Diagonal Pliers Wire Cutter Pliers Anti Slip Hand Tool with Seamless Blade Sharpness Jaws for Small Space Operation PVC Material Handle
plplaaoo
- [SEAMLESS BLADE & SHARPNESS JAWS] Experience unparalleled precision with our seamless blade and sharpness jaws. Designed for good toughness and strength, these diagonal pliers ensure durable long term use. The heat treatment process enhances durability, making them a reliable tool for any task.
- [THIN BLADE FOR SMALL SPACES] for tight and confined spaces, our thin blade diagonal pliers offer exceptional maneuverability. The compact design allows for easy access in small areas, while the comfortable grip ensures prolonged use without strain.
- [ANTI SLIP PVC HANDLE] The PVC material handle provides an anti slip and labor saving grip. Its ergonomic design ensures convenience and comfort, making it easy to hold and operate. Whether for professional or DIY use, these pliers offer a secure and comfortable handling experience.
- [QUICK & EASY SHEARING] Achieve quick and neat shearing with our wire cutter pliers. The sharp blades make wire cutting effortless and precise. Ideal for various wire cutting tasks, these pliers deliver clean cuts every time, saving you time and effort.
- [HEAT TREATED & SAND BLASTED] Our pliers undergo a rigorous heat treatment process, ensuring superior strength and longevity. The fine sandblasted surface adds to the durability while the reasonable design enhances functionality. A must have tool for any handyman or professional.
Long Reach Cutter
SPEEDWOX Side cutter Long Reach Diagonal Pliers 6 Inch Mini Fine Wire Cutting Plier Nippers High Leverage Reduce Efforts Precision Micro Wire Cutters for Hard to Reach Narrow Spaces
SPEEDWOX
- 【USAGE】 The pliers provide superior long-reach design for working in confined areas. Twin blades are induction hardened for superior performance，which can cut soft materials such as soft wire, guitar strings, copper, aluminum, soft-alloy wires, cable ties, and plastic parts, trim plastic components and flush sprues. A must-have tool set for electronic repair, automotive work, mechanics work, jewelry making, art and craft, and other hobby work.
- 【DESIGN】 High-leverage jaw and long handles deliver more cutting power with less effort. Heat treated joint rivet for smooth and consistent operation. PVC handles for anti-slip and comfort grip. The double leaf spring action reduces hand and wrist fatigue for easy one-handed operation.
- 【DIMENSION】 (150 x 51.5 x 14.5)mm / (L x W x H). 88g. Induction hardened cutting edge hardness approx. 55-58 HRC for superior performance.
- 【MATERIAL】 Drop forged high carbon steel and heat treated for strength and durability, additional nickel-iron plating improves the corrosion resistance of the surface and effectively prolong the service life of the plier. The antirust oil may be appeared on the tools, it will not effect the function.
- 【CAUTION】Please confirm the size before buying. Please inspect before every use. Do not use if damaged.
Electronics Specialist
Electronic Cutting Pliers Diagonal Cutting Nippers Wire Cutter Professional Precision Hardened Blades for Narrow Space Work PVC Grip Stainless Steel BANGYE 303 131mm
plplaaoo
- [PRECISION CUTTING PERFORMANCE] Experience unmatched sharpness and seamless cutting with our high-frequency hardened blades. These electronic cutting pliers deliver clean, precise cuts every time, making them ideal for professional and DIY projects. The thin diagonal design ensures effortless operation even in the tightest spaces.
- [ERGONOMIC COMFORT GRIP] Designed for extended use, the comfortable PVC hand grip provides a non-slip, labor-saving hold. The ergonomic design reduces hand fatigue, allowing you to work longer without discomfort. for intricate electronic work or heavy-duty wire cutting tasks.
- [NARROW SPACE OPERATION] The slim, diagonal design allows easy access to confined areas, making these pliers indispensable for detailed electrical work. Whether you’re working on circuit boards or tight wiring harnesses, these cutters provide exceptional maneuverability and control.
- [DURABLE CONSTRUCTION] Built to last, the entire pliers undergo heat treatment for enhanced strength, while the polished and sandblasted surface ensures long-lasting performance. The stainless steel construction resists , making these pliers a reliable tool for any workshop.
- [EFFORTLESS WIRE CUTTING] Quickly level and cut wires with ease, thanks to the precision-ground blades that break wires cleanly without fraying. Ideal for electricians, technicians, and hobbyists who demand professional-grade results from their tools.
Redesigned Stability Coasters
LINE+ARC Extra Thick Silicone Coasters (As Seen in NYTimes WireCutter) Waterproof Anti-Stain Heat-Safe Dishwasher-Safe Degrē Coasters (Set of 6, Clay) Outdoor Rubber Mid-Century Modern
LINE+ARC
- The Press is Raving — Featured in Glamour, FOOD&WINE, New York Magazine’s the Strategist, ELLE Decor, Bustle, BuzzFeed, Elite Daily, Etsy Journal, and more in 2021 and 2022
- New for 2022 — Redesigned, extra-stable base to reduce tipping. We heard your feedback loud and clear!
- Easy to Clean — Dishwasher-safe, highly stain-resistant, waterproof
- Food-Grade Silicone — Naturally anti-slip, non-scratching, non-toxic, heat-safe to 500F, and BPA free
- Functional Design — Specially designed ridges catch condensation and ensure the coasters don’t stick to the bottom of your cups or pans
Ergonomic Wire Shears
Anti Slip Diagonal Pliers, 2.5 mm Accurate Wire Cutter with Stainless Steel Jaws, 25 mm Head for Tight Spaces, PVC Ergonomic Handle, Electronics Repair Tool
Baxnore
- Durability: Meticulously crafted from seamless stainless steel; The reinforced construction withstands years of daily use; Built to handle everything from delicate electronics work to tougher wiring tasks with consistent performance
- Accurate Cutting: The slim diagonal cutter design reaches into tight spaces with 0.98 head length for circuit board work, control panels and confined areas where standard pliers won’t fit; Makes flush cuts up to 1.5 mm diameter
- Comfortable Handling: Features ergonomic PVC handles; The textured non-slip surfaces ensures positive control even when working at odd angles; Reduces hand fatigue by 30% compared to basic pliers during extended use
- Efficient Wire Shearing: Engineered cutter cut cleanly through wires with minimal effort; The optimized jaw geometry prevents slippage for safer operate; Saves significant time on electrical installations, repairs and crafting projects
- Surfaces Treatment: Undergoes complete heat treatment for durability; The fine sandblasted finish providing a professional look; Every detail is thoughtfully designed for both performance and longevity in demanding work ambient
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 is the most important safety feature to look for in a space heater?
The most critical safety features are tip-over and overheat protection. Tip-over protection automatically shuts the heater off if it’s knocked over, while overheat protection prevents the unit from becoming a fire hazard. Always ensure the heater is certified by a reputable testing laboratory like UL or ETL.
How do I choose the right size heater for my room?
Check the heater’s specified heating coverage, usually listed in square feet. A general rule is to use about 10 watts of heating power for every square foot of room space, but this can vary with ceiling height and insulation. For a poorly insulated or large room, consider a more powerful heater or using one as a supplemental heat source.
What is the difference between ceramic, infrared, and oil-filled heaters?
Ceramic heaters heat up quickly and are great for small to medium rooms, offering fast, direct warmth. Infrared heaters radiate heat to warm objects and people directly, making them effective in drafty spaces, while oil-filled radiators provide quiet, long-lasting, and gentle heat, ideal for all-night use.
Are more expensive heaters more energy-efficient?
Not necessarily, but higher-priced models often include features that improve efficiency, like programmable thermostats, timers, and eco-modes. A heater with an accurate thermostat will cycle on and off to maintain a set temperature, using less energy than a basic model running continuously. Look for energy-saving features rather than price alone.
How much noise should I expect from a space heater?
Noise levels vary significantly by type and model. Fan-forced heaters, like ceramic and some infrared units, produce white noise from the fan, while oil-filled and radiant infrared heaters are typically silent. If noise is a concern for sleeping or working, prioritize models marketed as ‘quiet’ or choose a silent radiant or oil-filled option.
Is it safe to leave a space heater on overnight?
It is generally not recommended to leave a space heater on while you sleep unless it has specific safety features designed for unattended operation. Look for models with a programmable timer, automatic shut-off, and overheat protection. For overnight use, an oil-filled radiator is often a safer choice due to its lower surface temperature and lack of a fan.
What’s the benefit of a heater with oscillation?
Oscillation helps distribute warm air more evenly across a wider area, preventing hot spots directly in front of the heater. This feature can make a room feel more comfortably heated at a lower temperature, potentially saving energy. It is especially useful in larger spaces or for warming multiple people.
Should I get a heater with a remote control or smart features?
A remote control adds convenience, allowing you to adjust settings without getting up, which is great for placement across the room. Smart features, like Wi-Fi connectivity and voice control, offer even greater convenience, letting you schedule heating times or turn the heater on before you arrive home. These features add value if you prioritize ease of use and automation.