We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best Outdoor Heaters 2025 in the United States

How do we rank products for you?

Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

headphones-stars

Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

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)

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,473
Heat Output (BTUs)
Heating Area
Safety Features

Most important from
10853 reviews

Heat Output (BTUs)
Delivers strong, reliable heat output that comfortably warms outdoor spaces, making it ideal for medium-sized gatherings.
Heating Area
Heat disperses effectively within about a 6-foot radius, which suits smaller outdoor zones but might require multiple units for larger areas.
Safety Features
Stability features like the weighted base and safety shut-off provide peace of mind during use.
Portability
Portability is a breeze thanks to smooth-rolling wheels, allowing easy movement across patios or decks.
Design and Aesthetics
The sleek, professional design not only looks great but resists weather wear, especially when paired with recommended covers.

The Amazon Basics 46,000 BTU Outdoor Propane Patio Heater is a solid choice for anyone looking to add reliable warmth to an outdoor space like a patio, cafe, or restaurant area. It offers substantial heat output with 46,000 BTUs, which comfortably heats an area up to about 324 square feet (roughly an 18-foot diameter). This makes it suitable for medium-sized outdoor gatherings where you want to stay cozy. Running on propane, it requires a 20-pound tank (not included), which is a common and easy-to-find fuel source.

One of its user-friendly features is the one-touch ignition, making it quick and simple to start, while the wheels make it easy to move around, adding to its portability. Safety is well thought out with an automatic shut-off if the heater tips over, a weighted water tank base for stability, and a chain to secure the propane tank. These features help give peace of mind when using it outdoors.

The heater’s design is sleek and modern, with a Havana Bronze powder-coated finish that looks attractive and resists rust or wear from outdoor conditions. Standing tall at over 7.5 feet, it provides good heat distribution without taking up much floor space. Since it’s a standalone propane unit, you’ll need to purchase and replace the propane tank separately. While it covers a decent area, larger spaces or very windy conditions might reduce its effectiveness. The height and design mean it’s best suited for open outdoor areas rather than covered or indoor use. This heater serves as a dependable, easy-to-use option for warming outdoor spaces up to medium size, combining powerful heat output with safety and mobility features. It’s especially handy for those who want a commercial or residential heater with a good balance of performance and style.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,473
Heat Output (BTUs)
Heating Area
Safety Features

Most important from
10853 reviews

Heat Output (BTUs)
Delivers strong, reliable heat output that comfortably warms outdoor spaces, making it ideal for medium-sized gatherings.
Heating Area
Heat disperses effectively within about a 6-foot radius, which suits smaller outdoor zones but might require multiple units for larger areas.
Safety Features
Stability features like the weighted base and safety shut-off provide peace of mind during use.
Portability
Portability is a breeze thanks to smooth-rolling wheels, allowing easy movement across patios or decks.
Design and Aesthetics
The sleek, professional design not only looks great but resists weather wear, especially when paired with recommended covers.
#2

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)

Rating
10.0
Heating Area
Safety Features
Portability

Most important from
10853 reviews

Heating Area
It effectively heats a 9-foot radius, ideal for outdoor gatherings.
Safety Features
The ability to weight the base with sand or water is crucial for stability in windy areas.
Portability
The heater's portability is enhanced with wheels, making it easy to move around.
Design and Aesthetics
The heater lights easily and quickly, providing ample warmth for cool nights.

The Amazon Basics 46,000 BTU Outdoor Propane Patio Heater is a solid choice for anyone looking to add warmth to their outdoor space, whether for personal use or in a commercial setting like a café or restaurant. With a heat output of 46,000 BTUs, it effectively radiates warmth across a 9-foot radius, making it suitable for gatherings on your patio or deck. The adjustable temperature knob allows for customized comfort, which is a definite plus.

Portability is another strong feature; the heater includes wheels that make it easy to move around, along with a one-touch ignition system for quick start-ups. The durable powder-coated finish in Slate Gray not only gives it an appealing look but also adds to its longevity against the elements.

Safety is well addressed with features such as a tilt safety auto-shut off valve and a water box to stabilize the base, which is particularly important for outdoor use. The included chain helps secure the propane tank, adding an extra layer of safety. However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. The heater requires a separate 20-pound liquid propane gas tank, which is not included in the purchase. This could be an additional cost and a hassle for some users. The height may also be a consideration; at 91.3 inches, it might not fit well in smaller outdoor spaces or under low ceilings.

Rating
10.0
Heating Area
Safety Features
Portability

Most important from
10853 reviews

Heating Area
It effectively heats a 9-foot radius, ideal for outdoor gatherings.
Safety Features
The ability to weight the base with sand or water is crucial for stability in windy areas.
Portability
The heater's portability is enhanced with wheels, making it easy to move around.
Design and Aesthetics
The heater lights easily and quickly, providing ample warmth for cool nights.
#3

EAST OAK Anti-rust 50,000 BTU Patio Heater for Outdoor Use With Double-Layer Stainless Steel Burner, Round Table Design and Wheels, Outdoor Patio Heater for Home and Commercial, Stainless Steel

Rating
9.4
Heat Output (BTUs)
Fuel Source
Safety Features

Most important from
1863 reviews

Heat Output (BTUs)
Delivers powerful warmth that comfortably heats outdoor spaces, even from 10 feet away, making chilly evenings enjoyable.
Fuel Source
Runs efficiently on propane, a convenient fuel source, ensuring consistent heat for outdoor activities year-round.
Safety Features
Safety features such as tip-over protection and automatic shutoff provide peace of mind during use.
Portability
Portability is enhanced by built-in wheels, despite the heater’s substantial weight and size.
Design and Aesthetics
The robust build and thoughtful design, including access holes for easy propane tank changes, reflect high-quality craftsmanship.

The EAST OAK Anti-rust Patio Heater offers a strong heat output of 50,000 BTUs, effectively warming up to a 20-foot diameter area, which makes it well-suited for outdoor settings like patios, backyards, or small commercial spaces. It runs on propane, a common and easy-to-refill fuel source, giving you reliable warmth during chilly evenings. Made from waterproof stainless steel, the heater is built to resist rust and scratches, meaning it should hold up well against outdoor weather conditions and stay looking good over time.

A key highlight is its double-layer heating mesh made from high-quality 304 stainless steel, which not only boosts durability but also enhances safety by better protecting the heating element. Safety features include a tip-over protection system that cuts gas flow if the heater tilts too much, plus an automatic shutoff if the flame goes out, giving peace of mind during use.

Portability is addressed with two wheels on the base, making it easier to move around despite its somewhat heavy weight of about 31 pounds and a fairly tall size (87 inches high). Assembly is straightforward and can be completed in about 30 minutes with clear instructions. The round table design adds a practical and stylish touch, allowing you to place drinks or small items on it while staying warm, blending functionality and aesthetics nicely. Note that the heater is designed strictly for outdoor use, so it’s not suitable for indoor spaces. This heater represents a robust and durable choice for anyone looking to extend their outdoor living time with effective heating. It suits those who value safety and sleek design, although its size and weight make it better suited for semi-permanent placement rather than frequent transport.

Rating
9.4
Heat Output (BTUs)
Fuel Source
Safety Features

Most important from
1863 reviews

Heat Output (BTUs)
Delivers powerful warmth that comfortably heats outdoor spaces, even from 10 feet away, making chilly evenings enjoyable.
Fuel Source
Runs efficiently on propane, a convenient fuel source, ensuring consistent heat for outdoor activities year-round.
Safety Features
Safety features such as tip-over protection and automatic shutoff provide peace of mind during use.
Portability
Portability is enhanced by built-in wheels, despite the heater’s substantial weight and size.
Design and Aesthetics
The robust build and thoughtful design, including access holes for easy propane tank changes, reflect high-quality craftsmanship.

Buying Guide for the Best Outdoor Heaters

Choosing the right outdoor heater can make a significant difference in how much you enjoy your outdoor space, especially during the colder months. The key is to understand your specific needs and the features that different heaters offer. This guide will help you navigate through the essential specifications to consider when selecting an outdoor heater that best fits your requirements.
Type of HeaterOutdoor heaters come in various types, including propane, natural gas, electric, and wood-burning. The type of heater is important because it affects the heater's portability, installation requirements, and operating costs. Propane heaters are portable and easy to use but require regular refilling. Natural gas heaters are more permanent and cost-effective in the long run but need a gas line. Electric heaters are convenient and safe for enclosed spaces but may have higher operating costs. Wood-burning heaters provide a traditional ambiance but require more maintenance and a steady supply of wood. Choose the type based on your preference for convenience, cost, and the ambiance you want to create.
Heat Output (BTUs)Heat output is measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs) and indicates how much heat the heater can produce. This spec is crucial because it determines how effectively the heater can warm up your outdoor space. Heaters with lower BTUs (5,000-10,000) are suitable for small areas or personal use, while those with higher BTUs (20,000-50,000) can heat larger spaces or accommodate more people. To pick the right one, consider the size of the area you want to heat and the typical outdoor temperatures in your region.
Heating AreaThe heating area specifies the maximum space the heater can effectively warm, usually measured in square feet. This is important to ensure that the heater can cover the intended area. Small heaters may cover up to 100 square feet, medium heaters can cover 100-300 square feet, and large heaters can cover 300-500 square feet or more. Assess the size of your outdoor space and choose a heater that can adequately cover that area to ensure comfort.
Fuel SourceThe fuel source for outdoor heaters can be propane, natural gas, electricity, or wood. This spec is important because it affects the heater's running cost, convenience, and environmental impact. Propane and natural gas are efficient and provide consistent heat but have different installation and refilling requirements. Electric heaters are easy to use and safe but may have higher electricity costs. Wood-burning heaters offer a rustic feel but require more effort to maintain. Choose a fuel source that aligns with your convenience, cost considerations, and environmental preferences.
Safety FeaturesSafety features in outdoor heaters include automatic shut-off, tip-over protection, and cool-touch surfaces. These features are crucial to prevent accidents and ensure safe operation, especially in households with children or pets. Automatic shut-off turns the heater off if it overheats or tips over, while cool-touch surfaces prevent burns. When selecting a heater, prioritize models with comprehensive safety features to ensure peace of mind during use.
PortabilityPortability refers to how easily the heater can be moved from one location to another. This is important if you plan to use the heater in different areas or store it away when not in use. Portable heaters are typically lighter and may have wheels or handles for easy transport. If you need flexibility in where you use your heater, look for models that are designed for easy mobility.
Design and AestheticsThe design and aesthetics of an outdoor heater can enhance the overall look of your outdoor space. This spec is important if you want the heater to complement your outdoor decor. Heaters come in various styles, from sleek and modern to rustic and traditional. Consider the existing style of your outdoor area and choose a heater that matches or enhances that aesthetic to create a cohesive and inviting atmosphere.

FAQ