Best Portable Heaters

Quirks aside, if you want a portable heater that's suitable for larger areas and offers beautiful looks, this Lifesmart quartz infrared faux fireplace model has a lot to offer.

Generates praise for its attractive design that resembles a fireplace with fire glow that looks realistic. Heats areas up to 1000 square feet with efficient infrared heat. Remote control included. Has casters that make it easy to move.

Designer Series Ceramic Oscillating Heater, 1500W

Some faulty models have been reported. A few quality control issues noted, as some units have arrived damaged. Pricey.

Best Bang for the Buck

Lasko

Aside from some concerns, this portable heater provides decent heating ability for small to moderate spaces and looks stylish enough to complement nearly any room.

Not only does this model look nice, but functions well in small to fairly spacious areas. Metal scroll base, oscillating heat, reasonably quiet operation, and affordable price is part of its feature set.

DR-968 Portable Infrared Heater, 1500W

Owners gripe about an unpleasant plastic smell that takes a while to fade. May not provide sufficient heat for very large spaces but works for most. Cord gets hot when run for long periods of time.

Dr. Infrared Heater

A good-looking portable heater that offers impressive performance, provided you don't get a "lemon" unit.

Heats up rooms and moderate-sized living spaces fairly quickly and quietly with even warmth without exposed heating elements. Attractive; operates manually or with remote. Easy to slide from room to room without tipping.

360 Degree Surround Fan Forced Heater

A few faulty models/units that quit working after a few months have been reported, and customer service could be more attentive.

Honeywell

If you need a good buy on a portable heater for a small space like an office for bedroom, this is a good choice. But it doesn't produce enough heat for large rooms.

An inexpensive model that is surprisingly innovative for the price, thanks to the 360-degree forced air unit that emits heat from the entire circumference of the heater. Compact and easy to move.

Slim Style Digital Convection Panel Heater with Dual Fan, 1500W

On the noisy side, occasionally makes strange "clicking" sounds and won't heat up spacious rooms.

De'Longhi

A must have for anyone who wants to heat small spaces and needs a portable heater with a small footprint; but not suited for very spacious areas.

Provides efficient room heating with dual-fan technology that distributes warmth quietly. Lightweight, slim design saves space and can be mounted to a wall with the included hardware.