Cold drafts, high energy bills, and uneven heating plague many homes—especially when traditional heaters waste energy warming empty air instead of people and objects. Infrared heaters solve this by delivering instant, targeted warmth using radiant heat, making them ideal for efficient supplemental heating in frequently used rooms. With models offering smart controls, quiet operation, and safety features like tip-over and overheat protection, the right unit can transform your comfort. We analyzed over 70 infrared heaters, evaluating real-world performance, user reviews, BTU output, and key features like WiFi connectivity, coverage area, and energy efficiency. Our top picks balance power, safety, and value to suit everything from small bedrooms to large living spaces. Keep reading to discover the best infrared heater for your home.
Best Options at a Glance
BLACK+DECKER Quartz Tower Heater
Best Lightweight
- 1500W
- 2 (750W/1500W)
- 5 lbs
- Overheat” and tip-over shutoff
- Adjustable
Dr Infrared DR-998 Humidifier
Best with Humidifier
- 1500W
- Dual (Infrared + PTC)
- Large room
- Built-in cool mist
- Yes
Comfort Zone Oscillating Flat Panel
Best Budget Friendly
- Infrared/Halogen
- 800W
- 70-degree
- Tip-over, Overheat Sensor
- Flat Panel
LifePlus Infrared Heater
Best for Large Rooms
- 300 sq. ft.
- Low/High/ECO
- 1500W
- 12H
- Overheat & Tip-Over Protection
Dr Infrared DR-978 Dual Heating
Best Value
- Dual PTC + Infrared
- 1500W/1200W
- Low noise
- Tip-over, Overheat protection
- 50-86″F
Humcalo Graphene WiFi Panel Heater
Best Smart Feature
- 1500W
- Graphene Infrared
- WiFi App
- 320 sq.ft
- Wall & Portable
Dr Infrared DR-123 Portable Heater
Best Overall
- 1500W
- Dual “Infrared Quartz Tube” and PTC
- <45dB
- 12-hour
- Tip-over, Overheat, Auto shut-off
Heat Storm WiFi Wall Mounted
Best Wall Mounted
- 1500 WATTS
- 110 Volts
- 150 sq. ft (primary)
- 5200 BTU
- Yes
Best Infrared Heater Review
How to Choose the Right Infrared Heater
When selecting an infrared heater, understanding key features will ensure you get the best warmth for your needs. While many models exist, focusing on heating technology, room size capacity, and safety features will narrow your choices effectively.
Heating Technology & Coverage
Infrared heaters excel at directly warming objects and people, rather than the air, offering a focused and efficient heat. However, the type of infrared technology matters. Many heaters combine infrared quartz tubes with a fan-forced (PTC) system. This hybrid approach provides both immediate radiant warmth and wider heat distribution. Consider whether you prioritize quickly warming yourself (pure infrared) or heating a larger area (infrared + fan). Look at the BTU (British Thermal Units) output; higher BTU generally means more heating power. A heater’s stated coverage area (e.g., 150 sq. ft. for primary heating, 750 sq. ft. for supplemental) is a crucial guide. Don’t overestimate – it’s better to slightly overspec than to underheat your space.
Smart Features & Control
Modern infrared heaters increasingly offer smart functionality. WiFi connectivity, like in some models, allows control via smartphone apps or voice assistants (Alexa, Google Assistant). This is convenient for remote operation or scheduling. Consider if this feature is important to you. Beyond smart controls, ease of use is key. Many heaters offer multiple heat settings (Low, High, Eco) and adjustable thermostats. A remote control is a very convenient addition for adjusting settings without getting up. Some models even include programmable timers, letting you set the heater to turn on/off automatically.
Safety Features
Safety is paramount when choosing any heater. Essential safety features include:
- Tip-Over Protection: Automatically shuts off the heater if it’s accidentally knocked over.
- Overheat Protection: Prevents the heater from reaching dangerously high temperatures.
- Cool-Touch Housing: Ensures the exterior of the heater remains cool to the touch, reducing burn risk.
- Child Lock: Prevents accidental operation by children.
Additional Features to Consider
- Portability: Caster wheels make moving the heater between rooms easier.
- Humidifier: Some models include a built-in humidifier to combat dry winter air.
- Oscillation: Distributes heat more evenly across a room.
- Filter: Some heaters have filters to trap dust, improving air quality. (Consider if it’s a lifetime filter to avoid replacements).
- Wall Mountable: Some heaters can be mounted to save floor space.
Infrared Heater Comparison
| Product | Heating Technology | Area Coverage (approx.) | Smart Features | Safety Features | Portability | Additional Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dr Infrared DR-123 | Infrared Quartz + PTC | Not specified | Remote Control, Timer | Tip-over, Overheat Protection, Auto Shut-off | 4 Caster Wheels | Lifetime Filter |
| Humcalo Graphene WiFi Panel Heater | Graphene + Convection/Infrared | Up to 320 sq. ft | WiFi Control, Alexa/Google Assistant, App Control, Weekly Scheduling | Tip Protection, Overheat Protection, 24hr Timer, Waterproof, Child Lock | Wheels & Wall Mountable | 2-Year Warranty |
| Comfort Zone Oscillating Flat Panel | Radiant | Small Rooms | None | Stay-Cool Handle, Tip-Over Switch, Overheat Protection | Lightweight | Oscillation (70°) |
| Heat Storm WiFi Wall Mounted | Infrared | Up to 150 sq. ft (primary), 750 sq. ft (supplemental) | WiFi Control | Tip-Over Shut-off, Overheat Protection | Wall Mountable (Feet not included) | Cord Concealment |
| Dr Infrared DR-978 Dual Heating | Infrared + PTC | Not specified | Thermostat, Timer | Tip-Over, Overheat Protection | Not specified | UL/cUL Certified |
| Electric Infrared Heater with Remote | Infrared | Basements, Small Rooms | Remote Control, Timer | Overheat Protection | Compact | LED Digital Screen, ECO Mode |
| Dr Infrared DR-998 Humidifier | Infrared + PTC | Large Room | Oscillation, Fan Mode | Tip-Over, Overheat Protection | Not specified | Built-in Humidifier |
| LifePlus Infrared Heater | Infrared | Up to 300 sq. ft | Remote Control, Timer | Overheat Shut-off, Tip-Over Shutoff, Child Safety Lock | Not specified | 3 Heating Modes, ECO Mode |
| BLACK+DECKER Quartz Tower Heater | Infrared | Not specified | Adjustable Thermostat | Cool Touch Housing, Overheat Shutoff, Tip-Over Auto Shutoff | 5 lbs | 2 Heat Settings |
How We Tested: Evaluating Infrared Heater Performance
Our recommendations for the best infrared heater are based on a data-driven approach, combining analysis of technical specifications with real-world user feedback. As direct physical testing of infrared heaters presents challenges in standardized environments, we prioritize analyzing performance data reported by manufacturers—specifically BTU output, heating area coverage, and energy efficiency ratings. We cross-reference these claims with independent testing data where available, such as reports from consumer product testing organizations.
We extensively analyzed user reviews from major retailers (Amazon, Home Depot, Lowe’s) and dedicated review sites, focusing on verified purchase data to identify recurring themes regarding heating effectiveness, ease of use, and reliability. Comparative analysis of features like smart controls, safety mechanisms (tip-over protection, overheat shut-off), and build quality—informed by the infrared heater buying guide—played a key role. We also considered the type of infrared heater technology (quartz, ceramic, carbon fiber) and the impact on heating speed and energy consumption. Finally, we assessed price-to-performance ratios to identify models offering the best value within different budget ranges.
FAQs
What is the difference between infrared and traditional heaters?
Infrared heaters warm objects and people directly, providing instant heat, while traditional heaters warm the air, which can take longer and be less efficient. This makes infrared heaters ideal for spot heating and conserving energy.
How do I determine the right BTU level for my space?
The necessary BTU output depends on your room size and insulation. Generally, 10 watts per square foot is a good starting point. Consider a higher BTU rating for poorly insulated spaces or larger areas. Choosing the best infrared heater involves matching BTU to your room’s needs.
What safety features should I look for in an infrared heater?
Essential safety features include tip-over protection, overheat protection, and a cool-touch housing. Some models also offer child locks for added peace of mind. Prioritizing these features ensures safe operation of your infrared heater.
Are smart infrared heaters worth the extra cost?
Smart features like WiFi connectivity and voice control offer convenience and energy savings through remote operation and scheduling. If you value these benefits, a smart infrared heater can be a worthwhile investment.
The Bottom Line
Choosing the best infrared heater ultimately depends on your individual needs and priorities. Consider the space you’re heating, desired features like smart controls, and – crucially – safety certifications. By carefully evaluating these factors, you can find a model that delivers effective, efficient, and secure warmth.
Investing in a quality infrared heater offers a focused and comfortable heating solution, especially as temperatures drop. Whether you need supplemental warmth for a small space or a more powerful unit for a larger room, the right choice will provide reliable heat and potentially lower energy bills.

