10 Best Portable Propane Heaters 2025 in the United States

The Mr. Heater MH9BX is a portable propane heater designed for outdoor use with a BTU rating ranging from 4,000 to 9,000, making it suitable for heating spaces up to 225 square feet. This rating is ideal for small to medium-sized areas, such as campsites or patios. It is highly portable, weighing only 9.5 pounds and featuring a fold-down handle, making it easy to transport and set up wherever needed.

One of its standout features is the array of safety measures, including auto shut-off if tipped over, if the pilot light goes out, or if low oxygen levels are detected. This makes it a safer choice for outdoor heating. However, it is important to note that the heater may shut off at high altitudes, over 7,000 feet, which could be a concern for those planning to use it in mountainous regions.

In terms of efficiency, the MH9BX is nearly 100-percent efficient and clean-burning, which is a significant advantage for environmentally conscious users. The heater connects to a propane tank, though it is not included, and offers a run time of about 5.6 hours on the minimum BTU setting. This provides decent fuel consumption for prolonged use. The ignition type is manual, which might require a bit of effort but is generally reliable. It is important to follow the guidelines and avoid unauthorized accessories to prevent voiding the warranty and potential safety risks.

With a high customer rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, it is well-regarded by users, especially in the context of RV and outdoor use. While it may require assembly and some users might find the manual ignition less convenient than automatic options, its portability, safety features, and efficient heating capability make it a strong contender for anyone in need of a reliable outdoor heater.

The Mr. Heater Portable Buddy Heater MH9BX is a versatile and powerful option for those in need of portable heat. With a BTU rating adjustable between 4,000 and 9,000, it can comfortably heat spaces up to 225 sq. ft., making it suitable for various settings like campers, workshops, job sites, and patios. One of its standout features is its advanced infrared technology, which delivers direct, sun-like warmth to objects and people, ensuring efficient heating.

The heater is designed with portability in mind, featuring a fold-down handle and a compact size of 7.7 inches in depth, 13.4 inches in width, and 15 inches in height, with a weight of 8.53 pounds. This makes it easy to transport and set up wherever needed. Safety is a top priority with this heater. It includes an improved tip-over safety switch that activates if the unit is shaken, bounced, or tipped. Additionally, a low-oxygen safety shut-off system ensures that the heater will turn off if oxygen levels fall too low, providing peace of mind. The ignition type is a reliable Piezo igniter, which allows for quick and safe ignition without the need for matches or lighters. This feature adds to the ease of use, as you only need to press a button to start heating.

In terms of fuel consumption, the heater is quite efficient. It can operate for up to 6 hours on the low 4,000 BTU setting and 3 hours on the high 9,000 BTU setting. However, it does require a propane cylinder, which means you’ll need to keep an eye on your fuel levels. A minor drawback is the heater's reliance on propane, which might not be as convenient for everyone, especially in areas where propane is less accessible. Additionally, while it’s effective for small to medium-sized spaces, it may not be the best choice for larger areas. The Mr. Heater Portable Buddy Heater MH9BX is a strong contender in the portable propane heater category due to its powerful heating capabilities, impressive safety features, and ease of use, making it a reliable choice for a variety of indoor and outdoor settings.