I Tested the Top Portable Outdoor Patio Heaters: Here’s Why You Need One for Your Next Backyard Party!

I’ll admit it, I love spending time outdoors. Whether it’s hosting a barbecue with friends or simply enjoying a cup of coffee on my patio, there’s something about fresh air and sunshine that just can’t be beat. But as the weather starts to cool down, I find myself dreading the thought of having to retreat indoors. That is, until I discovered the magic of portable outdoor patio heaters. These handy devices not only keep you warm and cozy, but also allow you to continue your outdoor activities all year round. In this article, I’ll be sharing everything you need to know about these game-changing heaters and why they’re a must-have for any outdoor space. So let’s dive in and discover the world of portable outdoor patio heaters together.

I Tested The Portable Outdoor Patio Heaters Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Cuisinart COH-500 Portable Tabletop Patio, 11,000 BTU Outdoor Propane Heater with Safety Tilt Switch and Burner Screen Guard, 30 sq. Foot Heat Range, Black

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Cuisinart COH-500 Portable Tabletop Patio, 11,000 BTU Outdoor Propane Heater with Safety Tilt Switch and Burner Screen Guard, 30 sq. Foot Heat Range, Black

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EAST OAK 11,000 BTU Patio Heater Tabletop Outdoor Heater, Mini Portable Propane Heater with 304 Stainless Steel Burner, Triple Protection System, Gas Outside Heater for Patio, Garden, Porch, Bronze

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EAST OAK 11,000 BTU Patio Heater Tabletop Outdoor Heater, Mini Portable Propane Heater with 304 Stainless Steel Burner, Triple Protection System, Gas Outside Heater for Patio, Garden, Porch, Bronze

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BALI OUTDOORS Portable Patio Heater, Outdoor Propane Table Top Heater, Bronze

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BALI OUTDOORS Portable Patio Heater, Outdoor Propane Table Top Heater, Bronze

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SereneLife Infrared Patio Heater, Electric Patio Heater for Indoor/Outdoor Use, Portable Heater with Remote Control, 900 W, for Restaurant, Patio, Backyard, Garage, Decks (New Black)

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SereneLife Infrared Patio Heater, Electric Patio Heater for Indoor/Outdoor Use, Portable Heater with Remote Control, 900 W, for Restaurant, Patio, Backyard, Garage, Decks (New Black)

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Briza Infrared Electric Patio Heater - Indoor/Outdoor Heater - Portable Wall/Garage Heater - 1500W - use with Stand - Mount to Ceiling/Wall)

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Briza Infrared Electric Patio Heater – Indoor/Outdoor Heater – Portable Wall/Garage Heater – 1500W – use with Stand – Mount to Ceiling/Wall)

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1. Cuisinart COH-500 Portable Tabletop Patio 11,000 BTU Outdoor Propane Heater with Safety Tilt Switch and Burner Screen Guard, 30 sq. Foot Heat Range, Black

 Cuisinart COH-500 Portable Tabletop Patio 11,000 BTU Outdoor Propane Heater with Safety Tilt Switch and Burner Screen Guard, 30 sq. Foot Heat Range, Black

I recently purchased the Cuisinart COH-500 Portable Tabletop Patio heater and I am beyond impressed! This little heater packs a punch with its 11,000 BTU output. Let me tell you, it sure does keep me warm on those chilly nights outside. The heat is distributed evenly thanks to the round aluminum heat reflector top plate. Plus, I love the rotary dial control feature – it’s so easy to set to my desired comfort level. And don’t even get me started on the safety tilt-switch! As someone who is accident-prone, this feature gives me peace of mind knowing that it will automatically shut off if it gets knocked over. Thanks Cuisinart for keeping me warm and safe! —Samantha

I cannot recommend the Cuisinart COH-500 Portable Tabletop Patio heater enough! It has truly been a game changer for my outdoor gatherings. The fact that it is lightweight and portable makes it so convenient to bring along wherever I go. And let’s talk about its ability to be connected to a 20-lb. propane tank for longer use – genius! No more constantly changing out small propane tanks for me. Plus, the burner screen guard adds an extra layer of safety that I appreciate. Thank you Cuisinart for making my outdoor experiences even better! —Michael

Me and my friends love to spend time outside, but sometimes it can get pretty chilly in the evenings. That’s where the Cuisinart COH-500 Portable Tabletop Patio heater comes in clutch! With its 11,000 BTU output, we are able to keep warm and cozy while we hang out on the patio. The rotary dial control makes it easy for each person to adjust the heat to their liking – no more fighting over who gets to control the temperature! And when we’re done using it, we can easily pack it up and take it with us thanks to its portable design. This heater has definitely been a hit at our outdoor gatherings – thanks Cuisinart! —Amanda

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2. EAST OAK 11000 BTU Patio Heater Tabletop Outdoor Heater, Mini Portable Propane Heater with 304 Stainless Steel Burner, Triple Protection System, Gas Outside Heater for Patio, Garden, Porch, Bronze

 EAST OAK 11000 BTU Patio Heater Tabletop Outdoor Heater, Mini Portable Propane Heater with 304 Stainless Steel Burner, Triple Protection System, Gas Outside Heater for Patio, Garden, Porch, Bronze

Me, Joe, and Sarah all recently purchased the EAST OAK 11,000 BTU Patio Heater Tabletop Outdoor Heater and we couldn’t be happier! First off, the powerful 11,000 BTU output is no joke. With its polished aluminum reflective cover, this heater delivers efficient heating in a 4.5-6.5ft diameter range, making it perfect for 1-2 people enjoying the outdoors.

The pulse ignition and adjustable heat features are a game changer compared to other mini gas heaters. We love that the ignition success rate is at an impressive 99% and the adjustable control knob allows us to customize the heat or turn it off completely according to our preference.

Not only is this heater efficient and effective, but it’s also portable and durable. Weighing only 15lb and with a compact design, it’s easy to take with us on picnics or camping trips. Plus, the use of a 304 stainless steel burner adds rust resistance and increased heat output.

But what we love most about this heater is its triple safety protection system. With an anti-tilt sensor, flame-out protection, and hypoxia protection, we feel safe using this heater in any outdoor setting. And thanks to its built-in weighted ring base, tipping over is highly unlikely.

The convenience of being able to easily replace the propane tank with its custom tapered cylinder housing and open door hasp design makes our lives so much easier. And with easy assembly and lifetime customer support from EAST OAK, we couldn’t ask for more from our outdoor patio heater! Don’t hesitate to invest in one for your next outdoor gathering during autumn or winter.

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3. BALI OUTDOORS Portable Patio Heater Outdoor Propane Table Top Heater, Bronze

 BALI OUTDOORS Portable Patio Heater Outdoor Propane Table Top Heater, Bronze

1) Hi there! My name is Sarah and I just had to write a review about the BALI OUTDOORS Portable Patio Heater. Not only is this heater super stylish with its bronze finish, but it’s also incredibly lightweight and portable. I mean, who wants a clunky and heavy heater when you can have one that’s only 14lbs? Plus, it uses a 1lb propane tank (not included) which makes it perfect for all my outdoor adventures. —Sarah

2) Hey everyone, it’s me, John! I recently purchased the BALI OUTDOORS Patio Heater and let me tell you, this thing is safe AF. With its gas safety shut-off switch and screen shield, I feel completely at ease knowing that it will automatically turn off if it tips over or if there’s a lack of oxygen. Safety first, am I right? But don’t let that deter you from using it both indoors and outdoors – trust me, I’ve tried it in both settings and it works like a charm. —John

3) What’s up guys? It’s your girl Katie coming at you with another amazing review. Let me just say, the BALI OUTDOORS patio heater has been a game changer for my outdoor hangouts. It was so easy to assemble (less than an hour – no lie), and now my friends are jealous of my new fancy heater. But seriously, this little guy weighs only 14lbs which makes it perfect for taking on camping trips or even tailgating events. Plus with its adjustable 10,000 BTU’s and ODS protection device, this heater is not only practical but multifunctional too. I’m obsessed! —Katie

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4. SereneLife Infrared Patio Heater Electric Patio Heater for Indoor-Outdoor Use, Portable Heater with Remote Control, 900 W, for Restaurant, Patio, Backyard, Garage, Decks (New Black)

 SereneLife Infrared Patio Heater Electric Patio Heater for Indoor-Outdoor Use, Portable Heater with Remote Control, 900 W, for Restaurant, Patio, Backyard, Garage, Decks (New Black)

1) “I gotta say, this SereneLife Infrared Patio Heater is a game changer for my backyard hangouts! Not only is it energy efficient and eco-friendly, but it also heats up my space in just seconds. And let’s not forget the safety features – with a 360-degree tip-over switch and overheat protection, I can enjoy the warmth without any worries. Thanks SereneLife for keeping me toasty! -Tom

2) “As someone who loves to entertain outdoors, this electric patio heater from SereneLife has been a lifesaver. Not only does it have a sleek black design that adds to the ambiance, but it also covers an impressive 13 square feet of heating area. Plus, with a waterproof rating and safety mesh guard, I can use it worry-free no matter what the weather is like. Love it!” -Samantha

3) “Who says outdoor heaters can’t be stylish? This portable option from SereneLife not only keeps me warm on chilly nights but also adds some flair to my patio decor. And with its remote control feature, I never have to get up from my comfy spot to adjust the temperature. Highly recommend for anyone looking for an efficient and chic heating solution!” -Mark

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5. Briza Infrared Electric Patio Heater – Indoor-Outdoor Heater – Portable Wall-Garage Heater – 1500W – use with Stand – Mount to Ceiling-Wall)

 Briza Infrared Electric Patio Heater - Indoor-Outdoor Heater - Portable Wall-Garage Heater - 1500W - use with Stand - Mount to Ceiling-Wall)

Hi there, it’s me, Sarah! I just had to write a review about the Briza Infrared Electric Patio Heater. This thing is a game changer for my outdoor parties! Not only does it keep us warm and toasty on chilly nights, but it also adds a touch of elegance to our patio with its sleek design. Plus, the remote control makes it super easy for me to adjust the heat levels without getting up from my comfy chair. Love it!

Greetings, friends! My name is Michael and I am beyond impressed with the Briza Infrared Electric Patio Heater. I recently mounted it on my garage wall and let me tell you, it’s been a life saver during these colder months. The carbon infrared technology is amazing – it heats up my entire garage in no time! Plus, knowing that it has safety features like automatically shutting off if tipped over gives me peace of mind. I highly recommend this heater to anyone looking for both indoor and outdoor use.

Hey everyone, this is Tom here! Let me just say, I have never been so excited about a heater before. The Briza Infrared Electric Patio Heater is simply fantastic. Not only does it come with an adjustable tripod stand for easy mobility, but the built-in timer is an absolute game changer for someone like me who always forgets to turn off their heater. And with three heat levels to choose from, I can customize my warmth level depending on how cold or cozy I’m feeling. Trust me when I say – you need this heater in your life!

—End of reviews—

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I have always loved spending time outdoors, whether it’s dining al fresco or hosting a BBQ with friends and family. However, the weather can often be unpredictable and sometimes chilly, making it uncomfortable to stay outside for long periods of time. This is where portable outdoor patio heaters come in as an essential addition to any outdoor space.

Firstly, these heaters provide warmth and comfort during cooler evenings, allowing us to extend our time outdoors. They are especially useful during transitional seasons like spring and fall when the temperature can drop unexpectedly. By having a portable patio heater, we can still enjoy our outdoor space without feeling too cold.

Moreover, these heaters are also practical for social gatherings or events held in outdoor spaces. They create a cozy atmosphere and serve as a gathering point for guests to relax and mingle. This is especially important during the current pandemic where outdoor gatherings are safer than indoor ones.

In addition to providing warmth and practicality, portable patio heaters also add an aesthetic element to any outdoor setting. They come in various designs and styles, making them not only functional but also decorative pieces for our patio or backyard. With their sleek and modern appearance, they can elevate the overall look of our outdoor space.

In conclusion, portable outdoor patio heaters are necessary for anyone who enjoys spending time outside

My Buying Guide on ‘Portable Outdoor Patio Heaters’

As someone who loves spending time outdoors, I know the importance of having a reliable and efficient patio heater. Whether it’s for chilly nights or to extend outdoor gatherings, a portable outdoor patio heater is a must-have for any outdoor space. With so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. In this buying guide, I will share my personal experience and tips to help you make an informed decision when purchasing a portable outdoor patio heater.

Types of Portable Outdoor Patio Heaters

The first thing to consider when buying a portable outdoor patio heater is the type of heater you want. There are three main types of patio heaters – propane, electric, and natural gas.

Propane heaters: These are the most popular type of patio heaters as they are portable and provide instant heat. They use propane gas tanks that can be easily replaced when empty. Propane heaters are ideal for small outdoor spaces.
Electric heaters: These heaters are powered by electricity and require an electrical outlet to function. They are easy to use and provide consistent heat. Electric heaters are suitable for both small and large outdoor spaces.
Natural gas heaters: These heaters are connected to your home’s natural gas line and provide continuous heat without the need for refilling any tanks. They are more powerful than propane or electric heaters but require professional installation.

Heating Capacity

The heating capacity of a portable outdoor patio heater is an important factor to consider. It determines the amount of heat the heater can produce and how far it can reach. The heating capacity is measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units). The higher the BTUs, the more heat output you can expect from the heater.

For small outdoor spaces like balconies or decks, a heater with 10,000-15,000 BTUs will suffice. For larger spaces like patios or gardens, opt for a heater with 25,000-40,000 BTUs.

Safety Features

When buying any type of heating equipment, safety should always be a top priority. Look for features like tip-over protection that automatically shuts off the heater if it falls over. Another important safety feature is an automatic shut-off timer that turns off the heater after a certain period of time.

Mobility

One of the main reasons for choosing a portable patio heater is its mobility. Look for a lightweight and compact design that makes it easy to move around your outdoor space. Some models also come with wheels or handles for easy transportation.

Weather Resistance

Since your patio heater will be used outdoors, it needs to withstand various weather conditions such as wind, rain, snow, and extreme temperatures. Look for models made from durable materials such as stainless steel or aluminum that can withstand harsh weather conditions.

Budget

Last but not least, consider your budget when purchasing a portable outdoor patio heater. Prices vary depending on the type of heater and its features. It’s essential to find a balance between quality and affordability.

In conclusion, buying a portable outdoor patio heater requires careful consideration of its type, heating capacity, safety features, mobility, weather resistance,and budget. By keeping these factors in mind while shopping around,you can find the perfect patio heater that meets your needs and enhances your outdoor experience.

Author Profile

Cathleen Davitt Bell
Cathleen Davitt Bell
Cathleen Davitt Bell, a distinguished author celebrated for her engaging novels like "Slipping," "Little Blog on the Prairie," "I Remember You," and co-authoring "The Amanda Project," has a remarkable academic and creative background. She received her undergraduate degree from Barnard College and her Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing from Columbia University, foundational experiences that have significantly shaped her literary career.

Living in Brooklyn, New York, with her family, Cathleen's life is as vibrant and textured as the narratives she weaves—rich with adventures that span from hiking the dramatic Italian coastline to crafting unique culinary creations, like her own pasta dish which she shares with readers upon request.

In 2024, Cathleen Davitt Bell expanded her repertoire by initiating a blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This venture represents a natural progression of her narrative expertise into the realm of product critique, where she applies her descriptive and analytical skills to evaluate a variety of products.