We reviewed more than 35 popular models from Dyson, DeLonghi, Arlec, Kmart Anko, Kambrook and more
Our tests revealed cheaper heaters that outperformed $500+ models
Our experts rate key factors like heating performance, safety, ease of use, running costs, noise and more
If you’re looking for a cheap fix to fend off the winter chills, an electric heater is probably your best bet.
While they’re not great for heating large spaces or energy efficiency, a decent unit can reliably turn the heat up in a room so you can at least feel your toes again.
The great news is our latest lab testsuncovered some impressive performers for under $100 that should do the trick. Some cheaper models even rated better than big-budget flops that cost well over $500.
The bad news is they also found plenty of cheapies that rated poorly. Kmart’s Anko heaters, for example, have a terrible track recordbut happily we found one this year that’s worth considering (which we reveal below).
Some cheaper models even rated better than big-budget flops that cost well over $500
Of course, when you’re shopping online or in store, it can be impossible to tell the hot from the not, which is why we’ve scientifically tested more than 30 popular heaters, including fan, convection, column, panel and tower types from leading brands.
“Some don’t have enough grunt to raise the temp in our test chamber by 10, or even five degrees. Others have failed our safety tests or suck up a lot of power, which means higher running costs.”
“Quality can even vary dramatically within a brand’s own range, which can make shopping even more confusing,” he adds.
“We’ve seen some brands put out very good panel heaters but also release very ordinary oil heaters. That’s why it’s so important to do your research before buying one.”
Quality can even vary dramatically within a brand’s own range
CHOICE heating expert Chris Barnes
Consider becoming a CHOICE member to see two great bargain buys under $100 (and one recommended model that costs just a little more) so you can bag a good quality heater than actually warms your home.
Members can access the list compiled by our experts and our full heater test results, plus reviews for over 200 other product categories.
Alice Richard is a Content creator and marketer. Alice writes on a range of topics, from health insurance to heaters and BBQs to bargain-hunting, always with the aim to help consumers find the best products to buy, and which to avoid.
Alice can take vast amounts of data from CHOICE product tests and turn it into content that is easily digestible and fun for readers.
Alice has a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Queensland.
Alice Richard is a Content creator and marketer. Alice writes on a range of topics, from health insurance to heaters and BBQs to bargain-hunting, always with the aim to help consumers find the best products to buy, and which to avoid.
Alice can take vast amounts of data from CHOICE product tests and turn it into content that is easily digestible and fun for readers.
Alice has a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Queensland.
For more than 60 years, CHOICE has been fighting the good fight for Australian consumers.
In the past year alone we've uncovered systemic issues with sunscreens, investigated shonky supermarket pricing, fought for stronger scam protections and helped make complex energy pricing fairer and clearer.
CHOICE is here to provide unbiased advice and independent testing in our world-class labs. We buy the products we test, just like you do, and our expert reviews are influence free. We’re here to help you choose smarter. Hopefully you’ll also save some money along the way.
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