7 Best Buddy Heaters of 2026

This rugged workhorse of a heater delivers serious warmth for hunters, campers, and outdoor workers who need reliable heat in harsh conditions. With a powerful 12,000 BTU output, it can comfortably heat spaces up to 300 square feet—perfect for medium-sized tents, ice fishing shacks, or open garages. The single-knob control simplifies operation, though ignition requires a match, which feels dated compared to modern push-button systems. Still, its raw efficiency and straightforward design make it a go-to for no-nonsense users who prioritize performance over convenience.

In real-world testing, the heater holds up well in drafty or semi-enclosed environments, maintaining steady warmth even in sub-freezing temps. It runs on standard 1-pound propane cylinders (or larger tanks with an adapter), offering flexibility in fuel options. While it lacks built-in safety shutoffs for tip-over or low oxygen, its simplicity means fewer electronic components to fail in extreme cold. However, this also means you must stay vigilant about ventilation and placement, especially in tight quarters—making it better suited for outdoor or semi-ventilated use rather than enclosed indoor spaces.

Compared to the Mr. Heater MH9BXRV Buddy, this model trades safety features for raw output and durability in wind-exposed areas. It doesn’t have auto-ignition or oxygen depletion sensors, but it’s built tough for rugged field use. Ideal for serious outdoor enthusiasts who know how to manage propane safely and need strong, dependable heat without frills. While not as smart or user-friendly as newer models, it outperforms them in sheer thermal delivery when you’re off-grid and exposed to the elements.

The MH9BXRV Buddy earns its reputation as a top-tier portable heater by blending safety, efficiency, and versatility into one compact package. With a variable 4,000 to 9,000 BTU output, it’s ideal for small to mid-sized spaces like tents, RVs, or cabins—warming up to 225 sq ft with nearly 100% combustion efficiency. Its standout feature is the triple-threat safety system: automatic shutoff for tipping, pilot-out, and low oxygen levels, making it one of the few propane heaters approved for indoor use. This peace of mind is a game-changer for winter campers and RV dwellers.

During real-world use, the heater starts reliably with its match-lit system (no batteries needed), and the swivel-out regulator makes connecting to 1-pound propane bottles effortless. The radiant heating design warms objects and people directly, not just the air, so you feel heat almost instantly—even in a chilly tent. However, at high altitudes (above 7,000 ft), the oxygen sensor may trigger premature shutdowns, which can be frustrating for mountain campers. It’s also not designed for large or open areas, where its heat output begins to fall short.

Pitted against the Big Buddy models, this unit sacrifices power for portability and indoor safety. It’s lighter, more compact, and smarter for enclosed spaces, while the larger Buddies dominate in raw heating capacity. For backcountry campers, van-lifers, or emergency backup users, this is the gold standard in safe, portable propane heat. It delivers smarter, safer warmth than basic models, even if it doesn’t match their BTU muscle.

Don’t let the budget price fool you—this surprisingly capable heater punches well above its weight for entry-level outdoor heating. Equipped with a one-push electronic igniter, adjustable heat control, and a foldable propane stand, it’s designed for hassle-free setup in tents, patios, or workshops. It delivers consistent warmth for spaces up to 200 sq ft, making it a solid pick for weekend campers and casual users who want convenience without complexity. The aluminum reflector and mesh guard add durability and safety, while the flexible hose reduces strain on connections.

In testing, the heater performed reliably in calm, sheltered environments—warming a 10×10 tent in under 10 minutes. The electric ignition is a major upgrade over match-lit models, especially with cold hands or wind. However, it lacks advanced safety features like tip-over or low-oxygen shutoff, so it’s best used outdoors or in well-ventilated areas. While it claims indoor use, without certified safety systems, it’s risky for enclosed sleeping spaces. It also struggles in high wind, where flame stability becomes an issue.

Compared to the Mr. Heater 3,800 BTU Little Buddy, this model offers similar coverage and ease of use but without the same safety pedigree. It’s a value-first alternative that trades brand reliability for affordability and modern touches like push-button start. For budget-conscious adventurers or those needing occasional warmth in a garage or backyard, it’s a smart, functional choice. It doesn’t match the refined safety and build of Mr. Heater’s lineup, but it gets the job done when funds are tight.

When you need serious heat in a cold environment, the 18,000 BTU Big Buddy PRO steps up as a powerhouse for large, drafty spaces. With a maximum output that covers up to 450 square feet, it’s perfect for uninsulated garages, barns, or large wall tents—making it a favorite among winter hunters and tradespeople. The three-level heat control (low, medium, high) allows precise temperature management, and its indoor-safe certification means you can use it in enclosed spaces with proper ventilation. This is heavy-duty warmth in a portable frame.

Real-world performance shows it heats quickly and maintains a stable ambient temperature, even in single-wall shelters. It connects to two 1-pound propane bottles or a 20-pound tank (with adapter), giving extended runtime for overnight use. However, the unit no longer includes a fan due to import changes, which slows heat distribution and creates hot spots near the unit. In still air, warmth doesn’t circulate evenly, requiring repositioning for optimal comfort. Also, like other models, it may shut off at high altitudes due to oxygen sensor sensitivity.

Compared to the MH9BXRV, this heater trades portability for dominance in coverage and output. It’s heavier and bulkier, but undisputed king in heating capacity. The lack of a fan is a real setback—especially when the newer Green Big Buddy includes one. Still, for users with large spaces and reliable ventilation, this model delivers unmatched warmth in the Buddy lineup. It offers more raw power than compact models, just with less refinement in heat delivery.

The Green Big Buddy isn’t just the best in the Buddy lineup—it’s a benchmark for portable propane heating. With variable output from 4,000 to 18,000 BTU, it adapts to any situation, from gentle warmth in a small tent to roaring heat in a 450 sq ft workshop. What sets it apart is its dual heating system: radiant heat for direct comfort and a built-in fan for convection airflow, ensuring even, fast warmth distribution. This combo makes it feel more like a mini furnace than a portable heater.

In real-world use, the electronic push-button ignition works flawlessly, even in cold weather, and the high, medium, and low settings provide excellent runtime flexibility—up to 10.8 hours on low. The safety suite is complete: tip-over, low-oxygen, and thermal overload shutoffs mean it’s certified for indoor use. It runs on two 1-pound bottles or a 20-pound tank (with hose), giving serious versatility. Unlike older Big Buddy models, it maintains consistent performance in still air thanks to the fan—no more cold corners.

Stacked against the standard 18,000 BTU Big Buddy, this model wins hands-down with smarter engineering and better heat management. It’s pricier, but the fan, refined controls, and reliability justify the cost. For serious users who need safe, scalable, and efficient heat, this is the ultimate all-in-one solution. It delivers faster, more balanced warmth than any other Buddy heater, making it the clear choice for performance and peace of mind.

The Little Buddy is the ultimate minimalist heater—small in size but mighty in convenience for personal-scale warmth. With a modest 3,800 BTU output, it’s designed to heat spaces up to 95 sq ft, making it perfect for small tents, sleeping bags, or personal workstations in a garage. What it lacks in power, it makes up for in safety and simplicity: it features automatic tip-over and low-oxygen shutoff, earning it indoor-safe status. The one-button ignition is effortless, and the compact design fits neatly in a backpack.

In testing, it warms a 6×8 tent in about 15 minutes and runs quietly—almost silently—making it ideal for overnight use without disturbing sleep. It connects directly to a 1-pound propane cylinder, standing just over a foot tall, and uses minimal floor space. However, its low output means it struggles in sub-zero temps or drafty shelters. It’s also not suited for group use or larger areas, where it simply can’t keep up. But for solo adventurers or emergency kits, it’s a trusted companion.

Compared to the portable budget heater (B0F62PSQCW), this model is far safer and more reliable, despite a higher price. It doesn’t have adjustable heat or a foldable base, but its certified safety systems make it a smarter indoor choice. For ultralight campers or backup heating, it’s unmatched in trustworthiness. It delivers safer, quieter, and more consistent heat than bare-bones alternatives, proving that sometimes small is better.

Engineered for the elements, the Buddy Flex Heater stands out with its high wind resistance technology—a rare and valuable feature for outdoor heating. Delivering 6,000 to 11,000 BTU of omni-directional radiant heat, it maintains flame stability even in gusty conditions, making it ideal for open hunting blinds, lake shanties, or exposed patios. The variable output control lets you conserve fuel during milder weather, while the patented overheat shutoff adds a layer of safety often missing in basic models.

Field tests in windy environments show it outperforms standard Buddy heaters, which often flicker or extinguish in similar conditions. The heat spreads evenly in all directions, warming people and gear without needing repositioning. However, it lacks electronic ignition—requiring a match—and doesn’t include a fan or oxygen depletion sensor, so indoor use is not recommended. It’s also only officially available in Canada, limiting access for U.S. buyers.

Against the 12,000 BTU Hunting Buddy, it trades a bit of peak output for superior flame stability in wind. It’s not as powerful, but it’s more reliable when exposed to the elements. For hunters, ice fishermen, or anyone braving blustery conditions, this heater is a specialized tool worth considering. It delivers more dependable performance in wind than standard models, even if it lacks their raw BTU numbers.