The Ultimate Buyer's Guide for Purchasing Heater Electric Car

08 Apr.,2024

 

Best Portable Car Heaters

Warm your cab and your winter drives with the best portable car heater.

Written and Tested By:

Will Moore

Written and Tested By:

Will Moore

Senior Writer – Motor1 Review Team

Will has written for several major auto sites including Motor1 since 2020, logging hundreds of hours researching and testing products ranging from child car seats to torque wrenches. Will is also Certified by Safe Kids Worldwide as a Child Passenger Safety Technician (#T836339).

Reviewed By:

Charles Noyes

Motor1 Reviews Team Take:

  • The best portable car heaters of 2024 are the Mr. Heater Golf Cart Heater, TIKSCIENCE, Sunny Color, Mr. Heater Portable Buddy, and Mr. Heater Little Buddy.
  • On average, you can expect to spend as little as $20 upward of $100 for a high-quality portable heater.
  • When buying a portable car heater, it’s worth considering the heat output and installation location that will be best for what you want in a car heater.

The best way to heat your vehicle is by using the onboard air conditioning system. However, fixing your broken heating system can easily cost upwards of $500. The best portable car heater may be your only alternative during a harsh winter.

In this guide, we recommend several car heater options that we’ve tested. We’ve found options for window defogging, seat warming, and cab warming. Some of these heaters can be used outside of the car as well and are especially helpful for camping and outdoor use.

Portable Car Heater Reviews

In our search for the best portable car heaters on the market we wanted to consider heating power, convenience, and portability throughout our testing process. We measured each heater on a scale of 1.0 to 5.0 stars to evaluate each product.

What Is The Best Portable Car Heater?

We named the Mr. Heater Golf Cart Heater, TIKSCIENCE 12V Car Heater, Sunny Color 12V Seat Cushion, Mr. Heater Portable Buddy, and Mr. Heater Little Buddy as the best-rated portable car heaters on the market in 2024.

Brand/ModelCostOverall RatingAward

Mr. Heater
Golf Cart Heater

$100

4.3

Best Overall

TIKSCIENCE
12V Car Heater

$20

4.0

Best Defroster

Sunny Color
12V Seat Cushion

$55

3.7

Best Heated Seat

Mr. Heater
Portable Buddy

$100

3.6

Best for Large Cabs

Mr. Heater
Little Buddy

$65

3.6

Also Consider

*Because cost data fluctuates, the prices in the table above are approximate values that our team regularly updates.

Portable Car Heaters Ratings: Our Testing Process

After looking at factors such as car heater portability, design, customer ratings, and prices, our product testing team ordered the portable car heaters that best met these standards. A team member tested each product in a sedan, taking note of how well the portable car heater heated the space, was easy to move, and conveniently designed. Each portable car heater was given a rating out of 5.0 stars based on these criteria.

Learn more about how we tested portable car heaters here.

1. Mr. Heater Golf Cart Heater: Best Overall

  • Cost: Around $100
  • Amazon review score: 4.5 out of 5.0 based on over 4,500 ratings
  • Power source: Propane gas
  • Heat output: 4,000.0 British Thermal Units (BTU)

Mr. Heater Golf Cart Heater Review

This 4,000.0-BTU heater is designed for golf cart use but can also be used in a car. It includes a cup holder adapter to fit in a center console, as well as safety features like an oxygen depletion system and tip-over switch. Because the Mr. Heater Golf Cart Heater is propane-powered, you should only use this heater in a ventilated area, which means don’t use it in your car with the windows up.

You can see how the Mr. Heater performed in each of our testing categories below:

Review CategoryScore (Out of 5.0 Stars)Heating Power4.0Convenience4.0Portability5.0Overall Rating4.3

If you’re driving on the highway, this won’t work as a portable heater since the incoming cold air will cancel out any warming effects. However, this heater is quite powerful and in a slow-moving or stationary car can keep you warm. It is much more powerful than any plug-in 12.0V portable car heater could be, which is why we’ve made it our top pick. Note that you will need a propane tank to use this heater (sold separately).

Mr. Heater Golf Cart Heater: Pros And Cons

Below are the pros and cons of the Mr. Heater Golf Cart Heater:

Pros

Compact size

Oxygen depletion safety system

Tip-over safety switch

Easy setup and installation

Cons

Propane gas tank not included

Mr. Heater Golf Cart Heater: Our Experience

The Golf Cart Heater is good for providing a lot of warmth, above what a 12.0V portable car heater could be expected to provide. It isn’t good for warming your car while driving on the highway, as it can only be safely operated with the windows down for proper ventilation. Because it’s so portable it’s also good to take camping or to carry with you to a worksite.

This portable car heater is very easy to use. Simply screw in the propane tank and hold down the ignition switch. Our propane tank didn’t fit very well into the cup holder attachment. This made the Golf Cart Heater unstable in our vehicle. However, with the proper-size tank, the heater would have been stable in our center console.

There is no thermostat or temperature control, but this unit heats quickly (about three minutes) and gets very warm. Because it is powered by propane, there’s a slight gas odor. Again, do not use this type of heater (gas-powered) in an unventilated vehicle.

Mr. Heater: What Customers Are Saying

Users like the Mr. Heater Golf Cart Heater because it is warm, lights quickly, and is stable even in moving vehicles. While designed specifically for golf carts, some users have used it in cars to satisfactory results. Most say that a single tank can last upward of six hours.

Some complain that the pilot light can take a few clicks to ignite. Others criticize the top-heavy design and say the cup holder doesn’t fit well. This may depend on your specific vehicle. Another common complaint is that there is no way to adjust the heat output (just a single setting).

2. TIKSCIENCE 12V Car Heater: Best Defroster

  • Cost: Around $20
  • Amazon review score: 3.3 out of 5.0 based on 30 ratings
  • Power source: 12.0V outlet
  • Heat output: 510.0 BTU

TIKSCIENCE 12V Car Heater Review

The TIKSCIENCE heater is a small dash-mounted window defroster. It has holes for permanent mounting and uses a pure copper cable and a built-in fuse for automatic safety shut-off. This heater also has a fan mode that can be used to provide a cool breeze in the hotter months.

You can see how the TIKSCIENCE performed in each of our testing categories below:

Review CategoryScore (Out of 5.0 Stars)Heating Power3.0Convenience4.0Portability5.0Overall Rating4.0

This portable heater is good for defogging your window or helping to defrost your window. It adds some heat and may help some if your car’s heater is broken, but shouldn’t be relied on as an interior car warmer. It can also blow cool air when your car gets too hot.

TIKSCIENCE 12V Car Heater: Pros And Cons

Below are the pros and cons of the TIKSCIENCE 12V Car Heater:

Pros

Dashmount installation

Automatic safety shut off

Fan mode

Defogs windshield

Cons

Low heat output

Won’t substitute your car’s heating system

TIKSCIENCE 12V: Our Experience

As a 12.0V device, the TIKSCIENCE does not put out a significant amount of warm air. However, it does generate enough heat to help warm and defog a windshield. If your car heater is broken, this can help with defrosting as well. The TIKSCIENCE does add some heat to the cabin, though not enough to warm drivers on the chilliest days.

TIKSCIENCE Heater: What Customers Are Saying

The TIKSCIENCE defroster doesn’t have a lot of reviews on Amazon, and negative reviews focus on the low heat output provided by this device. However, the TIKSCIENCE heater is designed for defogging and defrosting. Bear in mind that no 12.0V heater is likely to provide significant warming power.

3. Sunny Color 12V Seat Cushion: Best Heated Seat

  • Cost: Around $55
  • Amazon review score: 4.5 out of 5.0 based on over 1,100 ratings
  • Power source: 12.0V outlet
  • Heat output: N/A

Sunny Color 12V Seat Cushion Review

The Sunny Color seat cushion turns any vehicle seat into a heated seat. The velour cover attaches to your seat and can be warmed to three different settings. Not only can this cushion add some extra comfort to your car seat, but it can also help keep you toasty.

You can see how the Sunny Color performed in each of our testing categories below:

Review CategoryScore (Out of 5.0 Stars)Heating Power3.5Convenience4.5Portability3.0Overall Rating3.7

If you’d rather not use a gas-powered heat source in your car, a seat warmer like the Sunny Color is probably your next best bet. You won’t find any 12.0V car heater able to warm you as well, except maybe for an electric blanket. This heater can act as a good supplement to your car’s heating system by working faster to get you warm on cold days. This is a cheaper alternative to installing heated seats.

Sunny Color 12V Seat Cushion: Pros And Cons

Below are the pros and cons of the Sunny Color 12V Seat Cushion:

Pros

Keeps car seats warm

Easy installation

Exterior velour cover

Cons

Won’t substitute your car’s heating system

Drains car battery with extensive use

Sunny Color Seat Cushion: Our Experience

This seat cover installs easily and fits snugly. It didn’t bunch or tear during our test. It is also quite soft and comfortable – more comfortable than the factory cloth seats in our test vehicle. This cover works well just as a seat cushion. Even without turning it on, the material traps warmth (which could be a downside in the summer).

We found that the Sunny Color cushion warms quickly and to a significant degree. While it may not be able to fully supplement a broken air conditioning system, it does a pretty good job of keeping your backside toasty.

Sunny Color 12V: What Customers Are Saying

Many customers use these to supplement their car heater, as they can warm up faster than an air conditioning system. Users appreciate the low power draw and high heat output. Some comment on how well this stays attached, not moving around once installed.

Be sure to unplug the Sunny Color when your vehicle is parked, as some note that it will drain your battery if you keep it connected with the engine off. Another typical complaint is the cord location. It is on the right side of the seat, so if you use this in a passenger seat, you’ll need to drape the cord over your lap to reach the center console.

4. Mr. Heater Portable Buddy: Best For Large Cabs

  • Cost: Around $100
  • Amazon review score: 4.7 out of 5.0 based on over 500 ratings
  • Power source: Propane gas
  • Heat output: 9,000.0 BTU

Mr. Heater Portable Buddy Review

The final two selections for this list are not designed to be used in a moving vehicle. However, these are both warm, portable heaters with multiple safety features. As mentioned, a 12.0V heater is unlikely to output much heat. In especially cold locations and seasons, you’ll need something stronger.

You can see how the Mr. Heater Portable performed in each of our testing categories below:

Review CategoryScore (Out of 5.0 Stars)Heating Power5.0Convenience3.0Portability3.0Overall Rating3.6

The Mr. Heater Portable Buddy throws a significant amount of heat. It is easy to handle and use, which is why we recommend it for larger cabs. Keep in mind that you won’t want to use this in a moving vehicle and only in a ventilated cab (windows cracked).

Mr. Heater Portable Buddy: Pros And Cons

Below are the pros and cons of the Mr. Heater Portable Buddy:

Pros

High heat output

Heats areas quickly

Great for car camping

Cons

Less compact

Not for small cars

Mr. Heater Portable Buddy: Our Experience

This heater turns on fast and heats up very quickly. For a small car like our test vehicle, the heat is too much. If you’re sleeping in a large cab or truck, the Portable Buddy could get you through frigid evenings.

The Mr. Heater Portable Buddy would be good for those sleeping in larger vehicles. It isn’t a good option to use in a car while driving, or any small space. However, the high heat output and independent power source make it an option that will actually keep you warm and won’t wear down your car battery.

This is also a good pick for those going on a road trip who plan to camp. While it can work in a ventilated cab, the Portable Buddy is best used as an outdoor heater.

Mr. Heater Portable Buddy: What Customers Are Saying

Some mention that they have used the Portable Buddy for car camping, and it works very well for that purpose. In general, users appreciate how easy it is to use and how much heat it’s able to produce.

A small number of reviewers say that their Portable Buddy stopped working after a few uses. While these comments are small in number, it does point to possible defects in some Mr. Heater products. This device is supposed to come with a one-year warranty, so contact the manufacturer should your Buddy stop working.

5. Mr. Heater Little Buddy: Also Consider

  • Cost: Around $65
  • Amazon review score: 4.5 out of 5.0 after more than 6,900 ratings
  • Power source: Propane gas
  • Heat output: 3,800.0 BTU

Mr. Heater Little Buddy Review

The Mr. Heater Little Buddy is something between the Golf Cart heater and the Portable Buddy. It isn’t designed for vehicle use like the Golf Cart heater and therefore is less stable. However, it offers more heating power than the Golf Cart heater but in a much smaller package than the Portable Buddy.

You can see how the Mr. Heater Little Buddy performed in each of our testing categories below:

Review CategoryScore (Out of 5.0 Stars)Heating Power4.0Convenience3.0Portability4.0Overall Rating3.6

The Little Buddy is similar to the Portable Buddy in that you shouldn’t use it in a moving vehicle. This is a good pick for those planning to car camp or if you are going to sleep in your vehicle.

Mr. Heater Little Buddy: Pros And Cons

Below are the pros and cons of the Mr. Heater Little Buddy:

Pros

Compact size

Good for car camping

Portable

Cons

Less stable installation

Not recommended for use in moving vehicles

Lower heat output

Mr. Heater Little Buddy: Our Experience

It’s not as large as the Little Buddy, but it lasts longer and may be a good pick for those with smaller cars that don’t want the full heat of the Little Buddy. The independent power supply means you don’t need to wear down your car’s battery.

The Little Buddy is very similar to the Golf Cart heater, with the two main differences being an increased heat output in a slightly larger package.

While easy to carry, there isn’t a great spot to put the Little Buddy in your car. We could put it in our vehicle’s cup holder, but it’s not exactly stable while driving. We don’t recommend using the Little Buddy in a moving vehicle.

Mr. Heater Little Buddy: What Customers Are Saying

Many reviewers have used this effectively for car camping and warming truck cabs in sub-zero weather. Most agree that it has a decent heat output, especially for its size. Some have used it in a moving car after securing it (though this is not something we recommend).

A few have mentioned that the Little Buddy works less well as it gets older. One user says it became impossible to start after a time. The most common complaint is that the Little Buddy can be difficult to light.

Portable Car Heaters Buying Guide

Frankly, the available options for heating a car are limited. Any heater that is powered through your car’s 12.0V outlet is unlikely to have enough power to combat freezing temperatures. Gas-powered portable heaters are much more powerful, but cannot safely be used in a car with the windows raised.

The best way to heat your cabin is always going to be your vehicle’s air conditioning system, but when these systems break, they can be costly to repair. If you lack the funds to repair your AC system, a portable car heater may be your only choice.

What To Consider

When looking for a portable car heater, consider how it will be used. Wired 12.0V electric car heaters can be used with the windows up, but aren’t very powerful. A propane heater can put out a lot of heat, but shouldn’t be used in an unventilated cabin. Driving with the windows down can bring in more cold air that the heater may be able to warm.

Some other alternatives to keep yourself warm in an unheated car are an electric blanket, a heated seat, or even an old-fashioned hot water bottle bag.

When it comes to dealing with cold weather inside a vehicle or camper, your best bet should be the vehicle’s heater fan. If your vehicle can’t adequately produce hot air, a 12V portable car heater might be a workable substitute.

We’d recommend using steering clear of propane or diesel heaters, since ventilation may not always be an option in winter weather. Ceramic heaters usually offer fast heating, and a power inverter for a lighter socket works as a plug adapter if needed. Still, customers should be wary of things like overheating with any portable electric car heater, and purchase items with modern shutoff safety features.

Compare Portable Car Heaters

Brand/ModelPower SourceHeat OutputWeightMr. Heater
Golf Cart HeaterPropane gas4,000.0 British Thermal Units6.0 poundsTIKSCIENCE
12V Car Heater12.0V outlet510.0 BTU1.0 lb.Sunny Color
12V Seat Cushion12.0V outletN/A1.1 lbs.Mr. Heater
Portable BuddyPropane gas9,000.0 BTU8.7 lbs.Mr. Heater
Little BuddyPropane gas3,800.0 BTU5.0 lbs.

Best Portable Car Heaters: Bottom Line

In this article, along with sharing helpful purchasing tips for those interested in purchasing a portable car heater, we reviewed the top five portable car heaters in 2024:

Other Best-Selling Portable Car Heaters

Still looking for the right portable heater? We haven’t had a chance to test the following recommendations, but they may also be a good option for those in need of some extra cabin warmth.

Rampage Products Back Seat Heater


Cost: Around $100

This 12.0V heater will likely have some of the same issues as any other 12.0V heater: it won’t get especially warm. However, the Rampage can add a bit of heat to your back seat. It is mounted on a swivel bracket so that it can be easily positioned.

JEGS Auxiliary UTV Heater

Cost: Around $250

This JEGS heater may not be specifically designed for a car, but it can offer a bit more heat than a typical 12.0V heater. Reviewers on Amazon have used it for tractors, boats, and trucks. This unit is costly and requires some skill to install. However, users seem to think it provides a decent heat output.

Haigez Rotary Defroster

Cost: Around $40

One benefit of this defroster is that it can be used to both heat and cool. The design allows users to easily position this car heater. While not especially powerful, the output of this device is narrowly concentrated, so that you can keep your hands warm on the wheel.

Portable Car Heaters: FAQ

Below are some common frequently asked questions about portable car heaters:

Is there a portable heater for a car?

There are many portable heaters designed for cars. However, be wary of 12.0V car heaters, as this is not typically enough power to generate a significant amount of heat. Some portable heaters can be taken inside your car, though are not specifically designed for vehicle use.

Do portable car heaters really work?

Portable car heaters do not work nearly as well as your vehicle’s air conditioning system. Most 12.0V car heaters don’t throw a significant amount of heat and you may be better off with an electric blanket or heated seat cover.

However, a portable car heater can be useful to more quickly defrost your windshield or to add a little bit of heat in a pinch. Propane-powered heaters offer a lot more heat but cannot safely be used in a cab with the windows up.

What’s the best portable heater for a car?

We think that the Mr. Heater Little Buddy is the best option for a portable car heater. It’s small yet powerful. However, it has several drawbacks. Because it is gas-powered, you shouldn’t operate it inside your cab without ventilation (windows open). It’s also not easily stabilized in a moving vehicle, so it works well for situations where you may be parked but is not as good at heating your car while you’re driving.

How can I heat my car without a heater?

You can warm your body with a hot water bottle bag or a good blanket. If you need to heat your entire car and not just yourself, there are portable car heaters that can raise the cabin temperature. However, these aren’t as good as a functioning air conditioning system.

Parking your car in the sun with the windows up can raise the temperature of your car pretty significantly as well.

Can I use a propane heater in my car?

You can use a propane heater in your car, but take care when doing so. You should never run a propane heater in a car without proper ventilation. This means do not use such a heater while the windows are up. It is often not a good idea to use a propane heater in a car while driving unless the heater is completely stabilized. Otherwise, you risk burns or worse. It is also inadvisable to run a propane heater in your car with the windows up while you sleep.

Full Portable Car Heaters Testing Methodology

To test these heaters, we sat in the vehicle on a cold day, using nothing but the heater for warmth. Heating power, convenience, and portability are the most important factors we wanted to consider during our testing process to provide an honest evaluation of each product.

Heating Power: Our heating power score is based on the amount of heat each portable heater can generate, and how quickly it can get warm. Heaters that put out the most BTUs the quickest score best in this category.

Convenience: Not every one of our recommendations is specifically designed for use in a vehicle. Our convenience score is a representation of how well each heater integrates into the car. Does it have an easy place where it can rest or be stored? Can the heater be used while driving? Heaters that are well integrated into the vehicle and don’t require a fuel source score best in this category.

Portability: Heaters that are lightweight and easy to move score the best for portability. The inclusion of convenient carrying handles or storage options also contributes to a higher portability score.

How We Score Products

Star ratings help us to differentiate between products so we can honestly and accurately evaluate each portable car heater. We calculated an average rating of 3.8 out of 5.0 stars among the portable car heaters in this review.

  • 5.0 Stars: A 5.0-star rating is a well above-average score for the car heaters in our review. If the heater exceeded our expectations by heating our car quickly and being convenient and easy to use while on the road.
  • 4.0 Stars: A 4.0-star rating is an above-average rating. If the car heater was efficient at heating our car but was larger and lacked portability, you’d likely see an overall 4.0-star score.
  • 3.0 Stars: A 3.0-star rating is an average score for the portable heaters in this review. If the heater worked as expected but lacked convenience or was slower to warm up the car, you’ll see a 3.0-star score.
  • 2.0 Stars: A 2.0-star rating is a below-average score. For example, if the portable heater did not heat our car to a noticeable temperature, you’d see a below-average rating.
  • 1.0 Star: A 1.0-star rating is a well below-average rating. If the car heater was defective in some way or was designed poorly with low-quality material, you’d see a 1.0-star rating.

Why Trust Motor1.com

Each year, we test over 350 auto products on vehicles and in our testing lab. Our team of product testers thoroughly researches top products, unboxes and puts our hands on each component, and tests the items on real vehicles before making recommendations to readers.

We publish hundreds of product and service reviews to bring car enthusiasts detailed guides on automotive tools, detailing kits, car seats, pet products, and much more. For more information on our testing methodology and how we evaluate every product, check out our methodology page here.

*Data accurate at time of publication. Products subject to availability.

Will Moore

Senior Writer – Motor1 Review Team

Will has written for several major auto sites including Motor1 since 2020, logging hundreds of hours researching and testing products ranging from child car seats to torque wrenches. Will is also Certified by Safe Kids Worldwide as a Child Passenger Safety Technician (#T836339).

Charles Noyes

Editor – Motor1 Review Team

As a member of both the APA and IMPA, Charles Noyes has devoted himself to creating and refining quality content covering automotive products and accessories, motorcycle products, RV products, and more. As the lead editor serving the product review team, he has personally reviewed, critiqued, and fact-checked over 200 product reviews.

Most car heater cores are very hard to replace as they require high labour charges and are very expensive. Some technicians also offer to bypass the heater core but that is not the ideal solution. So, the best alternative is the portable car heater. It helps you to survive the winter months easily without burning a hole in your pocket.

There are some basic things that you need to consider when buying a portable car heater.

It is important to know the size and weight of the portable car heater. It needs to be lightweight and the size should be such that it fits easily inside the car.

You need to consider the power required for the portable heater. The portable heater should be able to draw the required power from the car itself.

There are three options when it comes to the types of portable car heater. However, the safest and best option is the 12V portable car heater as it can easily draw power from the car and is least likely to start a fire.

In this guide, we have listed the best portable car heaters with their best features, advantages, and disadvantages.

Below, you will also find a detailed “Buyer’s Guide” on how to select the best car heater inclusive of all the factors and considerations that one must keep in mind while shopping for a car heater.

NameMaterialWeight & DimensionsPower SourceBuy Now LARDERGO Portable Car HeaterABS & Polymer Heat-resistant Hard Plastic6.37 X 4.4 X 3.42 inches & 16 Oz12V / 150WCheck On Amazon KINOWJI Portable Car HeaterPlastic2.76X3.94X1.97 inches & 15.84 Ounces12V / 150WCheck On Amazon BTFDREEM Portable Car HeaterPlastic2.8 X 4 X 5.6 inches & 13.1 oz12V / 150WCheck On Amazon FAFAAWFF Portable Car HeaterABS Plastic6.5″L x 5.63″W x 3.43″H &11.3 Ounces12V / 150WCheck On Amazon Milukon Portable Car HeaterPlastic5.98″L x 5.04″W x 3.31″H & 12.9 Ounces12V / 150WCheck On Amazon

 Best Portable Car Heaters Reviews

LARDERGO, a brand synonymous with innovation and quality, presents its Portable Car Heater, a versatile device designed to enhance your driving experience. This compact yet powerful heater boasts a 360-degree rotating base for precise airflow adjustment, ensuring optimal comfort in any weather.

With its 2-in-1 heating and cooling functions, the LARDERGO Portable Car Heater effectively defrosts windshields and mist, keeping your vision clear and your drive safe. Its efficient three-outlet design ensures rapid heating and cooling, while its durable ABS and polymer construction guarantees long-lasting performance. Installation is easy and the self-adhesive pad provided ensures a secure grip, whether mounted on the dashboard or pedestal.

Experience the LARDERGO difference – enhanced comfort, safety, and convenience, all packed into our Portable Car Heater.

 Specifications:

  • Power – 150 Watts
  • Input Voltage – 12 Volts
  • Material – ABS Plastic
  • Features – Purifying air, Instant hot, Silent operation
  • Angle Adjustment – 360 Degrees
  • Cooling Method – 2 in 1
  • Dimensions – 7.76″L x 4.09″W x 3.62″H
  • Weight – 13 Ounces

Pros:

  • Heats up quickly and effectively
  • Defrosts and demists the windshield efficiently
  • Provides cool air for hot days
  • Easy to install and use
  • Compact and portable design
  • Relatively inexpensive

Cons:

The cigarette lighter plug can get hot.

Buy Now From Amazon

KINOWJI Car Windshield Defogger, a compact and versatile solution for year-round comfort in your vehicle. With dimensions of 2.76″L x 3.94″W x 1.97″H, this defogger is a powerful 2-in-1 device compatible with all 12V vehicles. Its radiator smart design, complete with a convenient handle, allows for easy adjustment of the wind direction and angle, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free experience.

The 360-degree rotation of the base and adjustable air outlet provide comprehensive warmth, making it effective for defrosting or defogging windows. Operating at 12 volts with a 12 KW wattage, this car heater boasts high power and fast heating, reaching optimal warmth in just 10 seconds. Its 2-in-1 mode enables both heating and cooling, making it suitable for various weather conditions. Ideal for cars, SUVs, trucks, and more, it’s a travel essential for combating cold winters and keeping cool in the summer.

However, users should be cautious about prolonged use, as the high-power device is recommended to be turned off after 40-60 minutes of operation. Additionally, careful handling is advised to prevent burns when unplugging the heater.

Specifications:

  • Power – 150 Watts
  • Input Voltage – 12 Volts
  • Material – Plastic
  • Features – Quick Defogging and Defrosting
  • Angle Adjustment – 360 Degrees
  • Cooling Method – 2 in 1
  • Dimensions – 2.76″L x 3.94″W x 1.97″H
  • Weight – 15.84 Ounces

Pros:

  • Compact and portable design for versatile use.
  • Convenient plug into the cigarette lighter
  • Quick heating for immediate warmth.
  • Affordable and efficient solution for in-car heating.

Cons:

  •  limited heating capacity power

Buy Now From Amazon

BTFDREEM Car Heater is a versatile 2-in-1 device that functions as both a heater and cooler. Its advanced aluminum alloy heating design ensures rapid heating or cooling, while its low power consumption ensures energy efficiency. Simply plug the heater into your car’s cigarette lighter socket and switch to heat or fan mode to enjoy instant warmth or refreshing coolness.

The heater’s 360-degree rotating base and suction cup bracket allow for flexible placement and adjustment, enabling you to direct the airflow precisely where needed. Its low noise operation ensures a peaceful driving experience, while its compact and lightweight design makes it easy to store and transport.

Whether you’re commuting to work, embarking on a road trip, or simply seeking comfort during chilly mornings, the BTFDREEM Car Heater is your reliable companion for all your winter driving needs.

Specifications:

  • Power – 150 Watts
  • Input Voltage – 12 Volts
  • Material – Aluminum Alloy
  • Features – Fast Heating and convenient heating Effect
  • Angle Adjustment – 360 Degrees
  • Cooling Method – 2 in 1
  • Dimensions – 5.6″L x 4.0″W x 2.8″H
  • Weight – 13.1 ounces

Pros:

  • Effective at heating and defrosting windows
  • Compact and portable
  • Low power consumption
  • Durable construction

Cons:

  • The heater may not be powerful enough for very large vehicles.

Buy Now From Amazon

FAFAAWFF Car Heater is a 2-in-1 multi-functional portable car heater that provides quick heating, defrosting, and defogging to ensure a comfortable and safe driving experience throughout the year.Powered by a 150W 12V cigarette lighter plug, this compact yet powerful heater swiftly eliminates windshield fog and frost, enhancing visibility and safety. Its dual-speed option offers both warm and cool air, making it an ideal companion for all seasons.

Equipped with an antioxidant alloy heating wire, the FAFAAWFF Car Heater boasts rapid heating, slow aging, and extended service life. Its dual-axis structure allows for 360° rotation and 60° wide-angle heating, directing warm air to your desired spot.

The built-in air purifier ensures fresh and inviting car air, while the 1.5-meter-long wire provides ample reach for fog removal throughout your vehicle. Easy installation and a safe ignition port plug make it a convenient choice for any car owner.

Specifications:

  • Power – 150 Watts
  • Input Voltage – 12 Volts
  • Material – ABS Plastic
  • Features – High heat conversion rate, Rapid heating, Slow aging
  • Angle Adjustment – 360 Degrees
  • Cooling Method – 2 in 1
  • Dimensions – 6.5″L x 5.63″W x 3.43″H
  • Weight – 11.3 Ounces

Pros:

  • Effective at clearing windshield fog and frost
  • Provides comfortable heating and cooling
  • Freshens the air in your car
  • Easy to install and use
  • Safe and reliable operation

Cons:

  • The noise level is a bit high.

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Milukon presents its 3-in-1 car heater, cooler and defogger, designed to provide comfort and safety for your driving experience. With its compact size, portable design, and easy installation, this versatile device is perfect for cars, jeeps, mini cars, light buses, light trucks, and small special vehicles.

Equipped with a quick cooling design, the car heater can rapidly generate a large area of stable wind to effectively heat up your vehicle, ensuring a clear view and a warm, comfortable drive. Its 3-in-1 functionality allows you to switch between natural fan or heat fan modes, catering to your needs in both hot and cold weather conditions.

The intelligent design features a rotary holder for versatile adjustment, enabling you to direct the airflow to your preferred angle. Additionally, the automatic heating and overheating protection features ensure safe and energy-efficient operation. Simply plug the car heater into your 12V lighter socket and enjoy a comfortable driving experience.

Specifications:

  • Power – 150 Watts
  • Input Voltage – 12 Volts
  • Material – Plastic
  • Features – Fast Heating, Comes with Rotary Holder
  • Angle Adjustment – 360 Degrees
  • Cooling Method – 3 in 1
  • Dimensions – 5.98″L x 5.04″W x 3.31″H
  • Weight – 12.9 Ounces

Pros:

  • Effectively heats up small vehicles
  • Provides a clear view of the windshield
  • Keeps you warm and comfortable during cold weather
  • Can also be used as a fan in hot weather

Cons:

  • The cord is relatively short.

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Things to Consider When Buying a Best Portable Car Heater

When selecting a portable car heater, there are several things that you need to consider. From the voltage required to the weight and the size, we have listed some of the basic factors that you need to consider when buying a portable car heater.

1. Type

  • 12V Portable Heaters: The safest and best alternative to the factory heater are the 12V heaters which are specially made for use in the car. They usually work after drawing power from the car after plugging in the cigarette lighter socket of the car. The portable car heaters should have an inline fuse for safety and should be wired directly to the battery.
  • Residential Portable Heaters: These heaters can be used in the car, but they are not designed for enclosed and small spaces. Also, it can be fatal by causing a fire as the manual asks to keep inflammable objects far from the heater. One more issue with the residential portable heater is the required wattage.
  • Portable Propane Heaters: These heaters come with a higher risk of suffocation and fire. Therefore, they should not be used in such enclosed spaces as cars.

2. Power

Power is a crucial feature when you are considering any portable car heater. This also depends largely on the size of the car you are using. For instance, a 12V portable car heater is sufficient for small cars but does not work well for larger cars or motorhomes.

3.Weight

As you need to carry the portable heater around, the heater must be lightweight. The lightweight structure of the portable car heater will allow you to carry it easily from the car to your house and back without any fatigue. The lightweight design will also make it easy for you to store when not in use.

4. Size

Before investing in any portable car heater, you need to check its dimensions. This is a very crucial step as you need to see if the portable car heater fits easily inside the car. It will become a useless investment if the heater is not suitable to use in the car.

5. Functionality

You need to decide why you need a portable car heater. Whether you need to keep the whole car or RV warm or for the windscreen to melt the frost or a heated cushion that is capable of warming your whole body. Different portable car heaters are suited for each function, so you can choose the one you need accordingly.

6. Compatibility

You need to make sure that the 12V lighter port in your can handle the portable car heaters. These heaters mostly use the lighter port to draw the power from your car. If the lighter port is not sufficient then you will need an inverter to draw power.

Best Portable Car Heaters: FAQs

1. Are portable car heaters safe?

Ans: If the portable car heaters are used properly, they are extremely safe. For example, many 12V car heaters have an inline fuse for safety. However, residential heaters, even portable ones, are not safe for the car.

2. Do portable car heaters work well?

Ans: The portable car heaters that are charged by the cigarette lighter outlet cannot suffice for the full heating system of the vehicle while a 12V charger by a battery is more able to provide warmth with an inline fuse. A universal heater that relies on coolant is the best attendance, but they are expensive and very difficult to install.

3. Are propane heaters suitable for cars?

Ans: No, using propane heaters in the car is a very bad idea, especially with the windows closed. Along with the harmful propane exhaust, they also emit water vapour and moisture. Therefore, without proper ventilation, the oxygen levels might be reduced and pose a fire risk.

4. How to heat the car without a car heater?

Ans: You can heat the car without a car heater by carrying a blanket or keeping a hot water bottle. If you want to keep the whole car and not just yourself, you can use portable car heaters, but they are not as powerful as the air conditioning system. Further, the car can get heated up quickly if you park under the sun for long hours.

5. What kind of portable car heater is the best for your car?

Ans: This answer depends on various factors. Your car size generally decides the power that you need for the car heater.

6. Can portable car heaters be used in any vehicle, whether parked or stationary?

Ans: Certainly, portable car heaters are compatible with most vehicles equipped with a cigarette lighter socket or a suitable power source. However, it’s crucial to verify the heater’s specifications and compatibility with the specific vehicle before usage. While these heaters can be used in parked or stationary vehicles, precautions such as ensuring proper ventilation and avoiding leaving the heater unattended for an extended period should be observed. Generally, these heaters are most effective to use while driving.

7. Can a portable car heater be used when the engine is off?

Ans: Yes, you can use the heater with the engine off, particularly if it’s powered by a separate power source like a power outlet or a battery pack. Suppose the heater relies on the car’s electrical system without the engine running. In that case, it’s important to note that it may draw power from the car’s battery, potentially leading to battery drain. Therefore, it’s advisable to be mindful of the power source and the capacity of the car’s battery to ensure optimal performance and prevent any issues.

Final Words

The bottom line is that portable car heaters can be used in case the factory heating system has failed, but they are not as strong. Replacing the real car heater system is expensive and requires a lot of installation work. Thus, this 12V 150W portable car heater is sufficient for the whole winter season.

  • BTFDREEM Portable Car Heater is a great option for those who want a versatile heater that can be used for both heating and cooling. It has a 360-degree suction bracket that allows you to direct the airflow exactly where you need it. It also has a built-in thermostat that can be set to your desired temperature.
  • LARDERGO Portable Car Heater is a good choice for those who are looking for a portable heater that is specifically designed for defogging and defrosting windshields. It has a powerful ceramic heating element that can quickly clear away frost and fog. It also has a multi-functional design that allows it to be used as a fan or heater.
  • FAFAAWFF Portable Car Heater is a good value for the price. It has a 150W heating element that can quickly heat up your car. It also has a 360-degree rotating base that allows you to direct the airflow where you need it. It is also very compact and easy to store.

If you have any further queries, you can contact us through the comments section given below.

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