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The best space heaters

Need to heat things up in the bedroom? These space heaters should do the trick

Whether you are buying your first space heater or upgrading your current model, it can be a huge decision. When you are cold, nothing is quite right. You can’t get comfortable, you are irritable, and in extreme weather, you could even be in danger.

For small spaces and offices, you can choose a panel heater or a compact unit. Space heaters even set the mood, looking and throwing light like a fireplace. We’ve got something for everyone, from budget heaters to the top-of-the-line Dyson space heater.

The best overall: Dyson AM09 Hot and Cool Fan Heater

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If you’re utilizing a space heater to warm your apartment (where space is at a premium), it makes sense to consider this slick-looking Dyson model. It’s a twofer, meaning it can heat the whole room in the winter or cool you down in the summer. Instead of having a couple of settings, the device lets you select a target temperature. The device uses Dyson’s long-range heat projection to ensure you feel the waves of warmth, even if you’re on the opposite side of a large room.

Unlike traditional space heaters, this model does not use blades. The Dyson AM09 uses the company’s patented Air Multiplier technology to produce a powerful airflow. This, of course, eliminates the annoying “chopping” sound created by traditional turbine models. This means you won’t have to turn up the volume on your television or audio device when your space heater starts up. Shelling out a few hundred dollars for a space heater will surely only appeal to a few, but it does mean you don’t need to stick it in storage when summer arrives.

The best for versatility: De’Longhi HMP1500 Mica Panel Heater

DeLonghi HMP1500 panel heater
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Space heaters can definitely take a toll on small rooms. Even the smallest units can be a tripping hazard, which is what makes DeLonghi’s Panel Heater stand out. Unlike any other model on this list, this space heater can also be wall-mounted to keep it out of the way. To make the transition, simply remove the feet from the bottom and mount the unit to virtually any wall. It’s less than 10 inches wide, weighs only 12 pounds, and includes a handle for easy transport. As an added safety bonus, the De’Longhi HMP1500 Mica Panel Heater shuts off if it either becomes too hot or tips over. The sleek design and matte-black finish match most any interior.

The best for the office: Honeywell HCE200W UberHeat Ceramic Heater

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As anyone who has ever worked in an office knows, the battle for control over the thermostat is very, very real. The ideal room temperature is different for everyone and sometimes the trusty ol’ office sweater just won’t cut it. That said, a small personal heater to treat the air in your work area is key and the Honeywell UberHeat is our pick for small spaces.

But don’t be fooled by the compact built, the Honeywell HCE200W UberHeat Ceramic Heater is more than a pint-sized portable. The low setting is powerful enough to warm up your little slice of the office without overheating your cubicle mate and the high setting is capable of adding the right amount of heat to smaller offices. Standing at 9.5 inches in height, this compact model works great both under and even on your desk without taking up much space.

The best silent heater: DeLonghi TRD40615E Full Room Radiant Heater

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Many traditional space heaters use fans to transfer heat around a given space. Unfortunately, the moving internal components often create a slight drone that can be rather annoying during sleep and that Netflix binge session. That said, radiators warm internal liquids to “radiate” heat in a given space without all of the extra noise. Packed with 1,500 watts of power, this model is perfect for medium to large rooms and the anti-freeze setting is an easy way to set a minimum temperature to prevent burst pipes during frigid cold fronts. A clear LED display allows you to easily view and change the thermostat, timer, and various heat settings.

The unit is a bit bulkier than other models, but a set of wheels enables easy transfers between rooms. While radiators certainly have their benefits over traditional space heaters, they, too, have their pitfalls and one of the main drawbacks is the amount of time it takes for them to heat a given space. Nonetheless, light sleepers and those simply looking for a quiet heater to warm larger spaces should give the DeLonghi TRD40615E Full Room Radiant Heater a look.

The best ‘fireplace’ heater: Duraflame Infrared Quartz Fireplace Stove With 3D Flame

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Cozy up to the Duraflame Infrared Quartz Fireplace Stove, the pseudo-fireplace you didn’t know you needed. It’s perfect for smaller living spaces, adding heat exactly where it’s needed. The 5,200-BTU heater is portable and warms up to 1,000 square feet. The adjustable thermostat allows for more control of your environment. Even when the heater is on it is cool to the touch, safe for your kids or pets. Features the Safer Plug, which monitors the plug temperature and will immediately shut off if it goes above a safe level. The faux fireplace features a realistic 3D flame effect and includes five adjustable brightness settings, letting you customize the look of the flame.

The best budget heater: Lasko Ceramic Heater

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The Lasko Ceramic Heater is a budget-friendly heater that can sit on any surface in your home or office. Featuring 11 different temperature settings, finding a way to keep warm is easier than ever. The 1,500-watt ceramic heater includes a convenient carry handle, letting you move it from room to room. On top of the many different temperatures setting the heater also has three quiet settings: High heat, low heat, and fan only. Features a safe ceramic element, overheat protection, and cool-touch exterior. Comes fully assembled and includes a three-year warranty, making this Lasko affordable and reliable.

Also, if you are looking for other types of heaters, check out the best bathroom heat lamps we found.

It’s important to note that some space heaters can quickly affect the humidity levels in your home, and those sensitive to such fluctuations may consider investing in a dehumidifier or humidifier to keep their environment in check.

Editors' Recommendations

Kailla Coomes
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Kailla is a staff writer from Portland, Ore. She studied Journalism at the University of Oregon and graduated in 2014. In her…
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