Why pack the patio away when the temperature drops? With the right heat source, a terrace or balcony can stay in use well into November, perfect for long dinners, morning coffee in a sweater and holiday drinks outside. Patio heaters are among the fastest climbers in Amazon’s Outdoor Heating best sellers each autumn, from classic propane towers to sleek electric infrared models you can mount on a wall.
We read through the current Patio Heaters best sellers and the brands’ own specifications, then picked six patio heaters for different spaces and power sources. Here’s what to buy, how to choose between propane and electric, and the safety basics every outdoor heater needs.
Patio Heaters at a Glance
- Best overall propane tower: Amazon Basics 46,000 BTU Patio Heater
- Best high-output tower: Hykolity 50,000 BTU Patio Heater
- Best electric for covered patios: Dr. Infrared Indoor and Outdoor Heater
- Best electric tower: VAGKRI 42-Inch Electric Infrared Heater
- Best tank-top heater: Mr. Heater 540-Degree Tank Top Heater
- Best portable: Mr. Heater Big Buddy
The 6 Best Patio Heaters on Amazon
1. Amazon Basics 46,000 BTU Patio Heater
The classic mushroom-style propane tower is what most of us picture when we think of patio heaters, and Amazon Basics’ version is a steady best seller. It produces 46,000 BTUs and the brand says it heats up to about a 9-foot radius, with an adjustable knob to control output.
One-touch ignition makes it easy to start, wheels help you roll it into place, and safety features include a tilt shut-off valve and a water box to weigh down the base. It runs on a standard 20-pound propane tank, sold separately.
Amazon Basics 46,000 BTU Outdoor Propane Patio Heater with Wheels
- 46,000 BTU, about 9-foot heating radius
- One-touch ignition, wheels
- Tilt safety shut-off
2. Hykolity 50,000 BTU Patio Heater
Hykolity’s tower is one of the most popular patio heaters on Amazon for larger spaces. Its 50,000 BTU output is a little higher than many standard towers, push-button ignition starts it without matches, and multi-speed temperature adjustment lets you dial heat up or down.
Wheels make it easy to move around a patio, balcony or campsite, and the brand describes it as weather resistant. It’s a solid mid-range pick for big terraces and outdoor entertaining.
Hykolity 50,000 BTU Propane Patio Heater
- 50,000 BTU output
- Push-button ignition
- Wheels, adjustable heat
3. Dr. Infrared Indoor and Outdoor Heater
No propane tanks to swap? An electric infrared heater is the simplest choice for covered patios, porches and garages. Dr. Infrared’s model is IP55 rated for both indoor and outdoor use, with three power settings of 900, 1,200 and 1,500 watts on a standard 120-volt outlet.
Infrared warms people and surfaces directly rather than the air, so it feels instant and odorless. It’s remote controlled, includes a wall and ceiling mounting bracket, and uses a mirrored aluminum reflector to direct heat. A smart, mid-range pick for sheltered spaces.
Dr. Infrared Heater Portable Indoor and Outdoor Infrared Heater
- IP55 indoor and outdoor rated
- 900, 1,200 or 1,500 watts
- Remote, wall and ceiling bracket
4. VAGKRI 42-Inch Electric Infrared Heater
VAGKRI’s freestanding tower brings electric heat to open patios without a gas tank. The 1,500-watt infrared element offers nine power settings from 620 to 1,500 watts and spreads warmth across a 100-degree angle.
A 1 to 24-hour timer helps save energy, and the weatherproof aluminum body is ETL listed, according to the brand. It’s a sleek, modern-looking alternative to traditional propane patio heaters.
VAGKRI 42-Inch 1500W Electric Outdoor Infrared Heater
- 9 heat levels from 620 to 1,500 watts
- 100-degree heating range
- 24-hour timer, ETL listed
5. Mr. Heater 540-Degree Tank Top Heater
Mr. Heater is one of the most trusted names in portable heat. This tank-top model mounts directly on a 20-pound propane tank and radiates warmth in multiple directions. A high-medium-low regulator gives you 45,000, 36,000 or 30,000 BTUs.
The brand quotes roughly 9.5 hours of run time on high with a 20-pound tank, and it has a tip-over safety shut-off switch. It’s for outdoor use only and is popular for tailgates, job sites and casual backyard gatherings. A budget-friendly, no-fuss option.
Mr. Heater 540-Degree Tank Top Propane Heater, 45,000 BTU
- 45,000 / 36,000 / 30,000 BTU settings
- About 9.5 hours on high with a 20 lb tank
- Tip-over shut-off, outdoor use only
6. Mr. Heater Big Buddy
The Big Buddy is a compact radiant heater you can carry by the handle. It puts out 4,000, 9,000 or 18,000 BTUs per hour and, according to Mr. Heater, heats up to roughly 450 square feet with three temperature settings.
The brand states it is designed and approved for both indoor and outdoor use, but always follow the manual closely, keep the space ventilated and use a carbon monoxide alarm. Mr. Heater also warns against unauthorized accessories. It’s a handy heater for a sheltered porch, a cabin or a chilly sideline.
Mr. Heater Big Buddy 18,000 BTU Portable Heater
- 4,000 / 9,000 / 18,000 BTU
- Heats up to about 450 square feet
- Indoor and outdoor approved by the brand
How We Chose These Patio Heaters
These picks are research-based. We started with Amazon’s Best Sellers in Patio Heaters and Outdoor Heating, then read each product page for fuel type, heat output, coverage, safety features and certifications. We chose trusted brands across propane towers, tank-top heaters and electric infrared models at budget-friendly and mid-range price levels. We did not test these heaters ourselves, and no brand paid for placement. See our editorial policy for details.
How to Choose Patio Heaters: A Buying Guide
Propane or electric?
Propane heaters produce the most heat and work anywhere, which makes them ideal for open patios and gardens, but you’ll need to buy and refill tanks. Electric infrared heaters are clean, quiet and cheap to run per session, but need an outdoor-rated outlet and work best in covered or sheltered spaces where wind doesn’t carry warmth away.
Heat output and coverage
Propane output is measured in BTUs; around 40,000 to 50,000 BTUs suits a typical patio table. Electric heaters are measured in watts, and 1,500 watts is the standard maximum for household outlets. Treat coverage claims as best-case figures on still evenings.
Safety first
Look for tip-over shut-off, flame-out protection and certifications such as CSA or ETL. Keep heaters well away from umbrellas, awnings, curtains, plants and furniture. Never use an outdoor-only propane heater indoors or in an enclosed space, because burning propane produces carbon monoxide. Wikipedia’s patio heater article gives useful background on how the different designs work.
Style and footprint
Tall towers suit restaurants and large terraces. Wall-mounted infrared heaters save floor space under pergolas. Tank-top and portable units are best for flexibility.
Tips for Using Patio Heaters
- Check for leaks. Brush soapy water on propane connections; bubbles mean a leak.
- Anchor towers. Fill the base with sand or water as the brand directs so wind can’t topple it.
- Mind the clearances. Follow the manual’s minimum distances from ceilings and walls.
- Use outdoor-rated cords. For electric heaters, plug into a GFCI outlet and avoid light-duty extension cords.
- Cover in winter. A heater cover protects ignition parts and paintwork from the weather.
Creating a Cozy Outdoor Room
Heat works best when you hold onto it. A pergola, sail shade or windbreak screen keeps warmth around your seating, and an outdoor rug and cushions make the space feel finished. Keep a basket of throws nearby and add lanterns or string lights for atmosphere.
Want a flame as well? Our guide to the best fire pits includes a dual-mode fire pit and heater. For seating, see the best patio furniture sets.
Running Costs and Efficiency
Propane patio heaters burn fuel quickly at full power, so turn them down once your group is comfortable and switch them off as soon as everyone heads inside. Keeping a spare full tank on hand avoids the classic mid-dinner fizzle, but store it upright, outdoors and away from the heater itself.
Electric infrared heaters are usually cheaper per evening because they only warm people and surfaces in their path. Timers, like the one on the VAGKRI, stop a forgotten heater running all night. Whichever type you choose, position it where people actually sit rather than in the middle of the yard, and you’ll get far more comfort from every BTU or watt.
Patio Heaters FAQ
How long does a propane tank last in patio heaters?
It depends on output. As a rough guide, a 20-pound tank lasts around 10 hours on high in a typical 40,000 to 46,000 BTU tower, and longer on lower settings. Mr. Heater quotes about 9.5 hours on high for its tank-top model.
Are electric patio heaters as warm as propane?
Electric infrared heaters feel warm quickly at close range but generally produce less total heat than a large propane tower. They’re ideal for covered and sheltered spaces.
Can patio heaters be used under a covered porch?
Electric infrared models rated for outdoor use and mounted with the right clearances are usually the best choice under cover. Check the manual of any propane heater for minimum ceiling clearance, and never use one in an enclosed area.
Do patio heaters work in wind?
Wind carries heat away quickly. Position heaters on the sheltered side of your seating and add a windbreak for better results.
Final Thoughts
The best patio heaters extend the outdoor season with minimal fuss. The Amazon Basics tower is our all-round favorite, Hykolity offers higher output, Dr. Infrared and VAGKRI bring clean electric heat, Mr. Heater’s tank top is the budget-friendly workhorse, and the Big Buddy is the portable pick. Check the current price on Amazon before the first frost. For more outdoor ideas, explore our Home & Living section.
