Staying warm during cold months doesn’t have to mean high energy bills or expensive heating systems. Today’s affordable heaters are designed to deliver strong, reliable heat while keeping electricity costs under control.
Whether you need to warm a small bedroom, a home office, or a living area, there are plenty of budget friendly options that balance performance, safety, and efficiency.
From compact ceramic heaters to energy saving infrared models, choosing the right heater can make a noticeable difference in comfort and monthly expenses.
This guide highlights nine cheap heaters that provide maximum heat output without putting pressure on your wallet.
9. BEYOND HEAT HE10 Convection Heater
The BEYOND HEAT Electric Baseboard Heater delivers reliable, whisper‑quiet warmth for any indoor space. Its adjustable thermostat offers two heat settings, so you can fine‑tune the temperature to match your comfort level.
Thanks to convection heating technology, the unit circulates warm air evenly without the hum of fans, making it perfect for bedrooms, home offices, or living rooms.
Safety is built‑in: a stay‑cool body, dent‑proof end panels, a tip‑over switch, and overheat protection keep the heater secure even in high‑traffic areas.
With a compact footprint of 29.25 × 5.25 × 9.25 in and portable design, it fits snugly against a wall or under a desk while delivering 750 W or 1500 W of power for small‑to‑medium rooms.
The heater is ETL‑approved for U.S. safety standards, giving you confidence that every winter night will be cozy and worry‑free.
Pros
- Adjustable thermostat with two heat settings
- Silent convection heating, no fan noise
- Built‑in tip‑over and overheat protection
- Compact, portable design fits tight spaces
- ETL‑approved safety certification for peace of mind
Cons
- Not ideal for large open‑plan areas
- Requires dedicated electrical outlet near wall
- Manual thermostat may lack smart‑home integration
8. Amaze-Heater Dual Comfort 1500W Space Heater
Amaze‑Heater Dual Comfort 1500W Space Heater & Fan is the ultimate 2‑in‑1 climate companion for any indoor space. Its sleek ceramic design delivers powerful heat in winter (750 W low / 1500 W high) and refreshing airflow in summer (15 W low / 23 W high).
The lightweight unit slides easily on its built‑in holding slot, so you can move it from bedroom to office or even a patio in seconds. An adjustable tilt head lets you direct warm or cool air exactly where you need it, while the dual‑speed fan keeps rooms from feeling stuffy.
Safety is built in: overheat protection automatically shuts the unit off, the housing stays cool to the touch, and a sturdy base prevents tipping.
Whether you’re curling up with a book or powering through a work‑day, this modern‑styled heater/fan offers year‑round comfort without sacrificing energy efficiency.
Pros
- Two heat levels for personalized warmth
- Dual fan speeds for optimal air flow
- Portable design with convenient carrying slot
- Tilt‑adjustable head directs airflow precisely
- Overheat protection ensures safe, worry‑free use
Cons
- May not heat very large rooms efficiently
- Fan can be audible at highest speed
- Requires nearby power outlet for continuous use
7. Beyond Heat BH-120 Ceiling Mount Heater
The Beyond Heat BH-120 Ceiling Mount Heater delivers reliable, space-saving warmth ideal for garages, workshops, patios, and commercial areas.
Designed for easy ceiling installation, it provides efficient radiant heat that quickly warms people and objects without heating the air unnecessarily. Its durable construction ensures long-lasting performance in both residential and light commercial environments.
With adjustable mounting options and quiet operation, it’s perfect for spaces where floor or wall heaters aren’t practical.
Built with safety features and energy-efficient operation, the BH-120 keeps spaces comfortably warm while helping reduce heating costs. Enjoy dependable, targeted warmth wherever you need it most.
Pros
- Compact ceiling design saves floor space
- Efficient radiant heating warms quickly
- Quiet and low-maintenance operation
- Durable build for long service life
- Ideal for garages, patios, workshops
Cons
- Installation requires mounting hardware
- Not suitable as primary home heating
- Limited to targeted area heating
6. WHISPERHEAT Under Desk Heater
Enjoy silent, fan‑free warmth exactly where you need it. The WHISPERHEAT Under Desk Warmer delivers gentle radiant heat to your legs and feet, making long hours at the office or home workstation far more comfortable.
With three intuitive heating levels and an automatic shut‑off timer, you can set the perfect temperature and forget about it—Level 1 is a subtle warmth, while Level 3 provides a cozy boost.
Its low‑power design keeps energy bills in check, and the built‑in 2‑ or 4‑hour timer adds an extra layer of safety.
The slim, lightweight chassis folds flat for effortless portability, so you can move it from a desk to a dorm room, studio, or even a nursery without hassle.
Its compact footprint fits neatly under any chair, and the heater is safe for use around pets and children, making it a versatile companion for any indoor space.
Pros
- Whisper‑quiet operation, no fan noise
- Three heat settings for personalized comfort
- Auto‑shutoff timer conserves energy
- Ultra‑compact, foldable design for easy relocation
- Safe for homes with children and pets
Cons
- Limited to under‑desk placement only
- No remote control for adjustments
- Not suitable for large open rooms
5. Heat Storm HS-1500-PHX-WIFI Wall Heater
The Heat Storm HS‑1500‑PHX‑WIFI is a sleek, wall‑mounted infrared heater that delivers powerful, silent warmth without sacrificing floor space.
With 1,500 W (5,200 BTU) it can comfortably heat up to 150 sq ft as a primary source, or up to 750 sq ft as a supplemental boost in well‑insulated rooms.
A built‑in Wi‑Fi module lets you set the temperature from any smartphone app, while the included remote and intuitive touch‑screen thermostat give you instant control from anywhere in the room.
Safety is front‑and‑center: the tip‑over shut‑off automatically cuts power if the unit is knocked, and the grill stays cool to the touch, keeping walls and hands safe.
The wall‑mount design hides the power cord inside the heater, preserving a clean look in bedrooms, kitchens, offices, or any space where floor space is at a premium. Operating on standard 110 V, this unit is ready for most North American outlets.
Pros
- Wi‑Fi control via smartphone app
- Tip‑over safety shut‑off protects households
- Touch‑screen thermostat offers precise adjustments
- Space‑saving wall mount frees floor area
- Cool‑to‑touch grill keeps walls safe
Cons
- Requires wall mounting; no floor‑stand option
- Remote not included in all packages
- Limited to 110 V outlets only
4. Heat Storm HS-1500-PHX Infrared Heater
The Heat Storm Phoenix Infrared Space Heater delivers rapid, comfortable warmth to any small room or office. With a maximum output of 1,500 W (5,200 BTU) and a lower‑energy 750 W mode, you can choose the perfect level of heat while saving electricity.
Its patented HMS heat‑exchanger works with room humidity to emit soft, safe infrared warmth that doesn’t deplete oxygen or dry the air—so even the grill stays cool to the touch.
Designed for versatility, the heater’s compact body fits neatly on the floor or can be mounted on the wall using the removable feet and built‑in mounting points.
The integrated thermostat with an easy‑read LED display maintains your desired temperature, and the included remote lets you adjust settings without leaving the couch. Backed by a 1‑year manufacturer warranty, the Phoenix offers reliable, energy‑efficient heating wherever you need it.
Pros
- Dual power modes for flexible heating
- HMS technology preserves room humidity safely
- Wall‑mountable or floor‑stand design options
- Remote control for convenient temperature adjustments
- Built‑in thermostat with clear LED readout
Cons
- Limited coverage for large open spaces
- Remote requires occasional battery replacement
- Not ideal for extremely cold climates
3. Dura Heat EUH1465 Electric Heater
The Dura Heat EUH1465 is a compact, steel‑built forced‑air heater that delivers 1,500 W of PTC ceramic heat, making it perfect for garages, workshops, and other small workspaces up to 250 sq ft.
Its rugged steel housing protects the unit from the rough conditions of a workshop, while the pivoting base and easy‑grip handle let you move it wherever you need warmth.
Choose between a heat‑only mode or a fan‑only setting for flexible temperature control, and fine‑tune the output with the built‑in adjustable thermostat.
A high‑velocity fan circulates hot air evenly, and an integrated overheat shut‑off keeps the heater safe during continuous use.
The 6 ft polarized power cord gives you plenty of reach, and the compact dimensions (8.5″ H × 8″ W × 7″ D) let it fit into tight corners without cluttering the workspace.
Pros
- 1500W PTC heating quickly warms small spaces
- Rugged steel body withstands workshop abuse
- Heat‑only and fan‑only modes for versatile use
- Adjustable thermostat delivers precise temperature control
- Overheat shut‑off ensures safe, worry‑free operation
Cons
- Limited to heating areas under 250 sq ft
- No remote control or digital display
- Fan can be noisy on high speed
2. BEYOND HEAT Milkhouse 1300W Space Heater
The BEYOND HEAT Milkhouse Space Heater delivers reliable warmth for any small‑area setting—from a home garage to a workshop or warehouse.
Its three power options—fan‑only, 1300 W, and 1500 W—let you dial in just the right heat, while the anti‑freeze mode automatically kicks in when temperatures dip below 40 °F.
Built with heavy‑duty components and ETL certification, this heater is engineered for durability and long‑term performance.
Safety is front‑and‑center: a tip‑over switch shuts the unit off if it falls, and an internal overheat protection sensor prevents overheating. Premium heating elements heat up in seconds, providing quick, consistent warmth without noisy operation.
The compact, lightweight design includes a sturdy carry handle, making it easy to move from bedroom to bathroom or office, helping you reduce heating costs while staying comfortable.
Pros
- Three heat settings for precise temperature control
- Automatic tip‑over and overheat protection safety features
- Fast‑acting 1500 W heating element warms quickly
- Heavy‑duty, ETL‑certified construction for longevity
- Portable design with convenient carry handle
Cons
- No remote control for distant operation
- Lacks built‑in humidifier function
- Not suited for large, open spaces
1. Dr Infrared Heater Portable 1500W
The Dr Infrared Heater Portable 1500W is a powerful and efficient space heater designed to warm indoor areas up to about 576 sq ft with its advanced dual heating system combining an infrared quartz tube and PTC technology for enhanced heat distribution.
Its stylish cherry cabinet blends with home décor, while a high-pressure, low-noise blower operates quietly at around 39 dB. Built-in safety features include tip-over and overheat protection plus a 12-hour automatic shut-off timer.
An electronic thermostat and included remote make temperature control easy and convenient, and caster wheels allow smooth mobility between rooms.
Pros
- Efficient dual heating (infrared + PTC)
- Quiet operation (~39 dB)
- Safety protections (tip-over, overheat)
- Remote control convenience
- Portable with caster wheels
Cons
- Heavier than basic heaters
- May be pricier than simple models
- Only for indoor use
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of heater offers the best balance between low upfront cost and high energy efficiency?
For most households, an electric convection heater with a built‑in thermostat provides the best mix of affordability and efficiency. Look for models that:
- Have a 90 %+ energy conversion rate (electric heaters convert nearly all electricity to heat).
- Include adjustable thermostats and multiple heat settings so you can run them at lower wattage when full heat isn’t needed.
- Feature Eco‑mode or timer functions to automatically shut off when the room reaches the set temperature, reducing waste.
These heaters typically cost $30‑$80 and can be paired with a programmable thermostat for added savings.
How can I lower operating costs when using a cheap space heater?
1. Seal the room – Close doors, windows, and any drafts; use weather‑stripping or draft stoppers.
2. Use a thermostat or timer – Set the heater to maintain a modest temperature (e.g., 68 °F/20 °C) and turn it off when you leave the room.
3. Combine with supplemental insulation – Hang a thermal curtain or lay a rug to keep heat from escaping through walls and floors.
4. Choose the right size – A heater that’s too small will run continuously, while an oversized unit cycles on/off, both waste energy. For a typical 150 sq ft room, a 1500‑W heater is sufficient.
By following these steps, you can cut the heater’s electricity use by 20‑30 % compared to running it unchecked.
Conclusion
When choosing a heater that balances affordability with performance, focus on energy efficiency, proper sizing for the space, and smart features such as programmable timers or thermostats.
Opt for units with high safety ratings and consider supplemental insulation to maximize warmth while minimizing power draw. Regular maintenance—cleaning filters, checking cords, and ensuring proper ventilation—keeps any heater running at peak efficiency and extends its lifespan.
By prioritizing these practical considerations over brand hype, you can enjoy consistent, comfortable heat throughout the colder months without inflating your utility bills, proving that smart, low‑cost heating is well within reach.
