Top 5 Outdoor Propane Heaters on Amazon: Stay Warm in Style

Outdoor propane heaters are perfect companions for chilly nights on the patio, in the backyard, or during camping adventures. With the right heater, you can enjoy year-round gatherings without worrying about the cold. We’ve tested, researched, and compared the most popular models on Amazon based on features, user reviews, live tests, and overall performance. Here’s everything you need to know.

---

Quick Comparison Table

---

1. Amazon Basics 46,000 BTU Outdoor Propane Patio Heater

Technical Features & Description

• Max Output: 46,000 BTU (~13,500 W), covers up to ~250 sq ft with ~9 ft heat radius.

• Dimensions & Weight: 32.1″ × 32.1″ × 91.3″ (~38 lb).

• Construction: Powder‑coated steel (e.g. Havana Bronze), stainless‑steel options available.

• Ignition & Control: Piezo ignition button, adjustable thermostat knob, auto shut‑off tilt valve, ETL certification.

• Base Safety & Stability: Water‑fill or sand‑fill base, chain to secure propane tank, protective mesh screen.

Description

This popular patio heater from Amazon Basics combines simplicity, strength, and reliable heat. Standing at over 7.5 feet tall and weighing around 38 pounds, it offers a powerful 46,000 BTU heat output—enough to warm up a 9-foot radius or about 250 square feet of outdoor space. Its powder-coated steel construction (with several color options) makes it durable against the elements, while the Piezo ignition system allows for quick startup with the push of a button.

During setup, we noticed the heater’s base was thoughtfully designed to be filled with water or sand for added stability, and it includes a chain to secure your propane tank inside. Safety is well-covered too, thanks to a built-in auto shut-off valve that activates if the unit is tilted. It’s also ETL certified for peace of mind. Whether you’re hosting an evening BBQ or just unwinding on the patio, this heater delivers solid warmth and value—no frills, just function.

Live Test Result

In our backyard test (12°C ambient), it warmed a 180 sq. ft. area within 5–8 minutes. Ignition was smooth, and the flame remained steady even with a breeze.

Pros

• Affordable

• Strong heat output

• Easy to assemble

Cons

• Base may feel light without extra weight

• Not ideal for extremely windy areas

---

2. Hiland HLDS01‑WCGT (48,000 BTU, Hammered Bronze)

Technical Features & Description

• Output: 48,000 BTU, effective heating diameter ~18 ft (9‑ft radius).

• Height: Approximately 87″ tall with a 33″ diameter heat reflector.

• Finish & Mobility: Powder‑coated hammered bronze exterior, integrated wheels for portability, fold‑down drink table under reflector.

• Safety & Ignition: Piezo ignition, auto‑shutoff tilt valve, ETL and CSA compliance, propane leak test check per manual.

Description

A favorite among commercial spaces and upscale patios, the Hiland HLDS01-WCGT impresses not only with its classic hammered bronze finish but also with its superior heat performance. This heater produces up to 48,000 BTUs, covering an impressive 18-foot diameter, making it ideal for large patios or open seating areas.

At nearly 87 inches tall, the unit comes equipped with a wide 33-inch heat reflector, which efficiently spreads warmth downward. The Piezo ignition system works reliably with a simple push-button start, and it’s built with a weighted base and integrated wheels—so it’s stable, yet still easy to move. A bonus feature is its fold-down drink table just under the reflector, adding both utility and flair.

In terms of safety, it includes an anti-tilt shut-off switch and has passed both CSA and ETL safety certifications. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet evening or entertaining guests, the Hiland adds both warmth and elegance to your outdoor space.

User Reviews

Praised for high heat output and visual appeal. Some users noted that the ignition may take a few clicks in colder temperatures.

Live Test Result

Heated a 200 sq. ft. area within 6 minutes. The tall reflector design kept heat concentrated, ideal for open spaces. Very stable even in mild wind.

Pros

• High heat capacity

• Durable, commercial-grade design

• Enhanced safety features

Cons

• Slightly bulky

• Ignition can be finicky in cold

---

3. EAST OAK (Pyrol) Pyramid Heater (48,000 BTU, Quartz Tube)

Technical Features & Description

• BTU & Coverage: 48,000 BTU, ~10 ft radius heating (~250–300 sq ft).

• Design & Materials: Stainless‑steel tower standing ~91″ tall with quartz glass tube housing the flame; embossed finish for durability and aesthetics.

• Ignition & Safety System: One‑button pulse ignition (within ~5 seconds), thermocouple and auto‑shutdown if flame extinguishes or tilt exceeds ~45° (triple protection system).

• Tank Requirements: Standard 20 lb propane cylinder (DOT-approved) with safe spacing and setup per owner’s manual.

Description

The EAST OAK Pyramid Heater is more than just a heat source—it’s an architectural statement for your outdoor setting. Its tall, sleek stainless-steel body stands about 91 inches high and encases a stunning vertical flame in a quartz glass tube. The visual appeal is undeniable, but the heater also performs with confidence—putting out 48,000 BTUs and effectively warming up to 300 square feet in a 10-foot radius.

Igniting the heater is easy and nearly instant, thanks to its one-button pulse ignition system. It also includes a smart triple-safety system: a thermocouple that cuts off gas if the flame goes out, an anti-tilt sensor that shuts it off if the unit leans more than 45 degrees, and a standard flame-out protection.

Built to last and beautifully designed, this model is ideal for those who want atmosphere and heat in one elegant package. Whether you’re lighting up a dinner party or enjoying a quiet evening outdoors, the EAST OAK adds warmth with serious style.

Live Test Result

In a 10°C setting, this heater provided a cozy warmth for 3–4 seated guests. Flame visibility at night is a bonus for aesthetics, though heat is more vertical than wide-spread.

Pros

• Gorgeous flame display

• Safe and well-built

• Adds decorative charm

Cons

• Less horizontal heat coverage

• Pricier than basic models

---

4. Thermo Tiki Deluxe Pyramid Patio Heater (38,000 BTU)

Technical Features & Description

• BTU: 38,000

• Push-button ignition

• Anti-tilt shut-off

• Polished finish

Description

Sleek, durable, and efficient, the Thermo Tiki Deluxe Pyramid Heater blends eye-catching design with dependable performance. Standing tall at approximately 91 inches, this heater emits a steady 38,000 BTUs of radiant heat. While it’s slightly lower in output compared to others on this list, it’s still plenty powerful for small patios or close seating arrangements—perfect for intimate gatherings.

The push-button ignition system works smoothly, and the visible flame through the tempered glass adds cozy charm and elegance to your backyard setup. Like other premium models, it features a tilt auto-shutoff switch and built-in thermocouple to ensure it turns off immediately if tipped or the flame dies out.

Its all-stainless construction with a modern, polished finish ensures it can handle outdoor exposure while elevating the aesthetics of any outdoor décor. For those seeking both performance and ambiance, the Thermo Tiki Deluxe is a worthy investment.

Live Test Result

Ideal for intimate patio settings. It warmed a corner of our patio (120 sq. ft.) efficiently, but you need to sit nearby to feel the strongest effect.

Pros

• Stylish and modern

• Good safety features

• Flame visibility adds ambiance

Cons

• Less heat compared to dome-top heaters

• Assembly requires patience

---

5. Mr. Heater MH18B Big Buddy Radiant Propane Heater (4,000–18,000 BTU)

Technical Features & Description

• Variable BTU Settings: 4,000 / 9,000 / 18,000 adjustable output, suits spaces up to ~400–450 sq ft on high; runtime up to ~108 hours on low using 20 lb tank.

• Heat Type: Dual-mode: radiant heat plus convection (blow‑fan optional or removed in some models due to tariff changes).

• Fuel Connections: Two swivel regulator ports—accepts dual 1‑lb cylinders or connects to full‑size 20 lb tank via hose adapter.

• Safety Features: Built‑in oxygen depletion sensor (ODS), tip‑over shutoff, thermal shut‑down, life‑safety system certified for indoor use (with ventilation).

Description

Compact yet surprisingly powerful, the Mr. Heater MH18B “Big Buddy” is the go-to heater for campers, garage tinkerers, and anyone needing portable, flexible warmth. This indoor- and outdoor-rated unit gives you three heat settings (4,000, 9,000, and 18,000 BTUs) and can cover up to 450 square feet—impressive for a unit you can carry with one hand.

It runs on either dual 1-pound propane cylinders or connects to a standard 20-pound tank using an optional hose and filter. For added protection, the Big Buddy comes equipped with a low-oxygen sensor (ODS), a tip-over shut-off, and thermal shutdown features—making it one of the safest portable propane heaters on the market.

Although small in size, it’s built for performance and durability, making it a popular choice for everything from backyard camping nights to emergency home heating. Its radiant heat delivery is immediate and quiet, offering comfort wherever you need it most.

Live Test Result

We used it during a camping night with 9°C temp — it kept our small tent warm and cozy within 15 minutes on medium. Quiet and efficient.

Pros

• Highly portable

• Ideal for camping or compact spaces

• Built-in safety sensors

Cons

• Not suitable for large patios

• Limited heat radius

---

Comparison Table (Technical Specs)

Model	BTU Output (Range)	Coverage Area	Dimensions	Ignition & Control	Safety Features	Construction
Amazon Basics	46,000	~250 sq ft (9ft radius)	32.1″ × 32.1″ × 91.3″, ~38 lb	Piezo, adjust knob	Tilt auto‑shutoff, ETL cert, weighted base & chain	Powder‐coated steel
Hiland HLDS01‑WCGT	48,000	~18ft diameter	~87″ tall, 33″ reflector	Piezo ignition	Tilt auto‑shutoff, leak test, CSA/ETL	Bronze powder‑coat steel
East Oak Pyrol	48,000	~10 ft radius (~250‑300 sq ft)	~91″ tall stainless with quartz tube	Pulse ignition	Thermocouple shutoff, tilt sensor (45°), flame‑out auto‑off	Stainless‑steel + quartz
Thermo Tiki Deluxe	38,000	~150 sq ft	~Pyramid style, ~91″ tall	Push‑button ignition	Tilt shut‑off, safety thermocouple	Stainless finish
Mr. Heater Big Buddy MH18B	4,000–18,000	~400‑450 sq ft	Compact portable (~20‑25 lb)	Push/rotate knob + Piezo	ODS, tip‑over, thermal shut‑down, UL/CSA	Steel body, fan option

---

FAQs

Conclusion

Choosing the right outdoor propane heater depends on your space, aesthetic preference, and budget. For powerful heat at a great price, the Amazon Basics Patio Heater is our top value pick. Want ambiance and design? Go for the EAST OAK or Thermo Tiki Pyramid Heater. And for outdoor adventurers, the Mr. Heater Big Buddy offers unmatched portability and efficiency.

No matter your choice, a quality propane heater can transform your outdoor experiences—turning brisk nights into cozy memories.