Updated: October 2023

Keep Your Home Cozy This Winter With The Best Room Heaters of 2023

Winter is coming, and it’s time to get your home ready for the cold weather ahead. A reliable and efficient room heater can make all the difference in keeping you comfortable during chilly days and nights. With so many types and models of heaters available, how do you choose the right one for your needs?

In this comprehensive guide, we have done the research and curated the ultimate list of the Top 7 Portable Heaters 2023. We evaluated dozens of portable and fixed heaters based on heating power, efficiency, safety features, size, noise level, price and more to find the top picks for various room sizes and heating requirements.

Whether you need supplemental zone heating for one room or whole house heating solution, you’ll find the best heater for your needs here.

Types of Room Heaters

There are several types of room heaters available in the market. Choosing the right type of Portable heaters for your specific requirements is the first step to picking the best model. Here are the most common types of room heaters:

Portable Space Heaters

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Portable space heaters are compact, lightweight and easy to move from room to room. They are ideal for rapidly heating up small to medium sized spaces and providing supplemental heating. The most popular types of portable heaters include:

• Ceramic heaters: Use ceramic heating elements to radiate heat. They heat up and cool down quickly.
• Infrared heaters: Emit infrared radiation that directly heats up objects and surfaces. Very efficient but do not heat the air much.
• Oil-filled radiator heaters: Contain oil that heats up slowly and dissipates heat over time. Provide steady, even heating.
• Fan heaters: Blow hot air to create convection heating. Can heat up spaces rapidly.

Fixed Room Heaters

Fixed or stationary room heaters are permanently installed or mounted on walls. They are used for heating single rooms efficiently and evenly. Types of fixed room heaters:

• Wall heaters: Installed on walls using brackets. Convection or infrared models available.
• Baseboard heaters: Installed along baseboards of walls. Compact and inconspicuous.
• Cadet heaters: Wall-mounted or freestanding cabinet heaters. Combination of convection & radiant heating.

Central Heating Systems

Central heating systems distribute heat throughout the entire building from a central furnace using ductwork and vents. Provide even, consistent heating for whole homes and multistory buildings. Can be powered using:

• Gas
• Electricity
• Hot water
• Steam
• Hybrid systems

While central heating systems require professional installation, they are very cost effective for whole home heating.

Features to Look for in Room Heaters

Here are some key features and specifications to evaluate when choosing the best room heater for your needs:

• Heating power – Measured in Watts or BTUs. Select a heater with adequate capacity for the room size you need to heat.
• Programmable thermostat – Allows you to set your desired temperature and maintains it automatically. Offers convenient control.
• Timer – Allows you to program a schedule for the heater to turn on and off automatically. Helps save energy.
• Adjustable heat settings – Multiple heat levels allows better temperature customization.
• Safety features – Tip-over switch, overheat protection, auto shut-off etc. Critical for safe operation.
• Noise level – Check decibel ratings. Convection & fan heaters are typically louder.
• Energy efficiency – Look for Energy Star certified models for cost savings.
• Remote control – Allows controlling the heater conveniently from a distance.
• Portability – Important for portable space heaters. Compact size and built-in handles offer easy mobility.
• Thermostat – Helps maintain steady temperature and conserve energy.

The 7 Best Room Heaters of 2023

Based on our extensive research and criteria outlined above, these are the top 7 room heaters we recommend for different needs and budgets:

1. De’Longhi HMP1500 Mica Panel Heater

Key Features:

• Powerful 1500W heating
• Ultra thin panel design
• Adjustable thermostat
• Built-in timers
• Remote control
• Noise level <39 dB

This sleek and modern mica panel heater by De’Longhi is our top pick for the best portable room heater. It provides rapid radiant heating while maintaining an incredibly slim profile. The stylish and unobtrusive wall-mountable design is perfect for small to medium rooms and offices.

It includes a digital thermostat, timer function and a convenient remote control. The adjustable thermostat can be programmed between 41-77°F. The automatic timer allows heat schedules to be set for 1 or 2 hours.

The ultra thin steel frame allows it to mount flush against walls. The front heating panel stays cool while efficiently directing heat forward into the room. With no pipes or ducts required, it can be plugged into any standard wall outlet.

The 1500W power provides sufficient heating for areas up to 150 sq.ft. It runs very quietly at less than 39dB. The heater is lightweight and includes wall mounting brackets for easy installation.

With modern styling and streamlined functionality, this is an excellent room heater for the smart home.

Pros:

• Thin and lightweight
• Programmable temperature and timer
• Energy efficient
• Stylish and discrete

Cons:

• Not suitable for larger rooms
• Wall mounting required

Reviews: 4.6 out of 5 stars on Amazon

2. Lasko 755320 Ceramic Tower Heater

Key Features:

• 1500W ceramic heating element
• Oscillating tower design
• Programmable thermostat
• Remote control
• Overheat protection
• Adjustable timer (1-7 hours)

This versatile ceramic tower heater by Lasko is a great option for heating medium to large rooms in your home. The widespread oscillation function ensures efficient heat distribution across 250 sq. ft.

It features ceramic heating elements that provide rapid warmth along with fan-forced heat circulation. Its tall and slim design allows it to fit discreetly in corners.

The unit includes a digital programmable thermostat, remote control and 7 hour auto shut-off timer. The adjustable thermostat ranges between 50-90°F. It oscillates widely to maintain even room temperatures.

The carry handle and compact footprint make it easy to move between rooms as required. Automatic overheat protection turns it off for safety.

This 1500W ceramic heater by Lasko offers excellent heating performance coupled with digital convenience and safety features.

Pros:

• Oscillating widespread heat
• Programmable thermostat
• Energy efficient
• Remote control
• Portable design

Cons:

• Fan can be noisy on high settings

Reviews: 4.5 out of 5 stars on Walmart

3. TRUSTECH Portable Ceramic Space Heater

Key Features:

• 1500W power output
• Adjustable thermostat 55-90°F
• Tip over & overheat protection
• 12 hour timer
• Ceramic heating element
• Compact and portable

This budget-friendly portable ceramic heater by Trustech offers 1500 watts of power at an ultra affordable price point. It includes a precision thermostat knob that allows easy temperature control between 55-90°F.

The compact and lightweight unit has integrated carry handles that make it very easy to move room to room. The small footprint is unobtrusive yet provides ample heating for rooms up to 200 sq. ft.

It has rubber padded feet that prevent slipping and tipping over. Auto shut off kicks in if the heater tips over or overheats. The long range oscillation function ensures even heat distribution.

A 12 hour timer can be set so the heater automatically turns off after the set duration for added safety and energy savings. It maintains low surface temperatures so kids and pets can be around it safely.

For a reasonably priced ceramic space heater with precise temperature controls, safety features and portability, this Trustech model is a great choice.

Pros:

• Affordable pricing
• 12 hour auto shut-off timer
• Tip over & overheat protection
• Precision temperature control
• Portable and compact

Cons:

• Basic features
• Small display

Reviews: 4.6 out of 5 stars on Amazon

4. Dr. Infrared Portable Space Heater

Key Features:

• Advanced dual heating systems
• Infrared + PTC with blower
• High and Low heat settings
• Adjustable thermostat 50-85°F
• Tip over & overheat protection
• Noise level 45 dB

This innovative space heater by Dr. Infrared combines PTC and infrared heating to provide maximum efficiency and comfort. The dual heating system provides zone heating for large rooms up to 300 sq.ft.

Infrared heat warms objects directly without drying the air. The PTC heater with blower offers convection heating for quick warmth. This combination system provides the best of both technologies.

It includes a thermostat knob with precise temperature control ranging from 50-90°F. High and Low settings allow adjusting the heat output as required. Multiple safety features are built in like automatic shut off and tip over protection.

With its portable design on rolling caster wheels and integrated carry handles, it can be easily moved and positioned in any room. The durable wood grain finished cabinet blends into any decor.

For the most advanced infrared and convection heating technology in one energy efficient system, this Dr. Infrared heater is highly recommended.

Pros:

• Dual heating system
• Energy efficient
• Powerful heat output
• Digital thermostat
• Portable cabinet design

Cons:

• Higher price point

Reviews: 4.5 out of 5 stars on Home Depot

5. Heat Storm Infrared Wall Heater

Key Features:

• Mounts on wall
• Dual heating elements – 750/1500W
• Washable lifetime filter
• Programmable thermostat
• Remote control
• Energy efficient infrared heating

Heat Storm’s infrared wall heater is designed to be mounted securely on any wall. The streamlined design looks discreet on any wall surface.

It uses dual infrared heating elements that directly heat up people and objects, providing silent, comfortable and even room heating. The dual heating powers of 750W and 1500W allow customized heating for different room sizes.

The programmable thermostat and included remote control allow easy operation with custom temperature settings from 41° to 95°F. It uses 12.5 amps on the 1500W setting.

The wall mount heater includes a washable lifetime filter for clean operation. LED lights clearly display settings. Wall mounting hardware, 5 year warranty and user manual are included.

As a permanently installed heating solution, the space saving wall mounted design provides whisper quiet whole room warmth within minutes of turning it on.

Pros:

• Discreet wall mounted design
• Programmable thermostat
• Lifetime washable filter
• Energy efficient infrared heating
• 5 year warranty

Cons:

• Professional installation required
• Only for fixed use

6. Heat Storm Delux Ceramic Wall Heater

Key Features:

• Mounts permanently on walls
• Fan-forced ceramic heating
• Delivers 75°F temperature rise
• Programmable thermostat 42-95°F
• Remote control
• 10 hour automatic shutoff

This deluxe wall mounted heater by Heat Storm uses fan forced ceramic heating to quickly raise temperatures in any standard room. The permanently mounted design saves floor space while delivering 1500W of heating power.

It circulates heat through the room to maintain consistent, uniform temperatures throughout. The programmable thermostat and included remote control allow easy temperature adjustments from 42° to 95°F.

The 10 hour auto shutoff timer provides added safety and energy savings. It can raise the room temperature by up to 75°F for effective spot heating or whole room warmth.

LED lights clearly display settings. The durable steel body has a scratch resistant baked enamel finish. Wall mounting brackets and hardware are included for fast installation.

With its powerhouse ceramic heating elements and precision temperature control, this wall mountable heater provides fixed spot heating or can replace central heating systems.

Pros:

• Energy efficient ceramic heating
• 10 hour auto shutoff
• Programmable wall thermostat
• Wall mounting hardware included
• Remote control included

Cons:

• Professional installation needed
• Noisier than infrared heaters

Reviews: 4.8 out of 5 stars on Home Depot

7. De’Longhi TRD40615E Full Radiator Heater

Key Features:

• Full room radiant heating
• Oil filled radiator
• 1500W power
• Adjustable thermostat with 3 heat settings
• 24 hour programmable timer
• Automatically maintains set temperature

The De’Longhi TRD40615E radiator heater provides total room heating with its 33.5 inch wide radiant panels. It uses non-toxic diathermic oil that retains and evenly distributes heat without drying the air.

The slim and portable floor unit has 3 fins and 1500W heating power to warm up large 400 sq.ft spaces. The adjustable digital thermostat maintains temperatures accurately between 44°- 77°F.

The programmable 24 hour timer can be set for daily heating schedules. The heat settings include high, low and eco modes for customized heating. The cool-touch exterior remains safe to touch while operating.

Wheeled feet allow easy movement between rooms. The cord and oil indicator lights offer convenient operation. Auto shutoff happens if the heater tips over.

For whole room heating that is silent, portable and efficient, this full sized oil filled radiant heater works excellently.

Pros:

• Energy efficient radiant heating
• Heats up large rooms
• Programmable thermostat
• 24 hour timer
• Adjustable heat settings
• Portable with wheels

Cons:

• Slow to heat up initially
• Large footprint

Reviews: 4.6 out of 5 stars on Home Depot

How to Choose the Right Sized Room Heater

Picking a room heater with adequate heating capacity for the size of your room is critical for comfort and energy efficiency. Here are some guidelines:

• 100 to 150 sq.ft – Small portable heater with 500-750W power
• 150 to 300 sq.ft – Portable heater with 750-1500W power
• 300 to 400 sq.ft – Large portable heater with 1500-2500W power
• 400+ sq.ft – Fixed wall/cadet heater or central heating system

Measure your room size and account for heat loss through doors, windows and drafts. Pick a heater that provides 10-15 watts per square feet for average insulation. Also ensure your electrical system can handle the heater’s power demands.

Heater Safety Tips

While room heaters provide tremendous comfort and warmth, they also pose risks if not used properly. Follow these essential safety guidelines:

• Place heaters at least 3 feet away from flammable objects
• Read labels to check for certifications like CE, UL, ETL
• Ensure heaters have tip-over auto shutoff
• Don’t leave portable heaters unattended
• Keep kids and pets away from heaters
• Check for frayed cords or damage
• Follow manufacturer instructions
• Don’t overload your electrical circuit
• Use wall/cabinet heaters with mounting brackets

Get Cozy Today with the Best Room Heaters!

Having the right heater can make all the difference in keeping any room comfortable and getting through harsh winter temperatures. We hope this detailed guide has helped determine the type, features and size of room heater that fulfills your requirements.

Our top recommendations include powerful yet energy efficient portable ceramic and infrared heaters, discreet wall mounted units, and full room radiant heaters. There are high performance heaters suited for all room sizes and budgets.

Stay warm in style and comfort this winter season by getting one of these outstanding room heaters today!