Best Space Heaters for $100 or Less

It is true that some of the highest-priced models land near the top of our ratings, and many lower-priced space heaters slide to the bottom. But there are too many good options costing less than $100 to justify overpaying for a brand name or settling for a cheap generic. In fact, 18 of the top 20 models in our small space heater ratings cost less than $100. Most get excellent or very good marks for room heating, and three-quarters of them are excellent to very good at spot heating as well. Larger heaters tend to cost more, but you can find good values there, too.

In our lab, we gauge how well a space heater warms an entire room (our room heating score), as well as the person sitting directly in front of it (our spot heating score). We also rate models on safety, such as how likely they are to cause nearby fabrics (such as drapes or upholstery) to ignite, and how hot the surface gets so you’ll know to avoid touching it. (Here’s more on how to use your space heater safely.) We look for other features that promote safety, too, such as a tip-over switch, which automatically turns off the heater if it falls over.

Below, you’ll find our top-rated space heaters that cost $100 or less. (Prices can fluctuate, so you may see a model selling for slightly more than $100 at times.) For even more choices, see our full space heater ratings and for more advice on choosing one, consult our space heater buying guide.