For a desk, dorm or small bedroom where a compact heater with a tip-over switch matters more than a remote or timer.
Amazon $39.99The Lasko 754201 Tabletop Ceramic Heater is the better space heater overall, rated 3.9 to 3.6. The Lasko 754201 Tabletop Ceramic Heater leads on value. The Dr Infrared Heater DR-978 wins on thermostat and controls. The Lasko 754201 Tabletop Ceramic Heater costs $60 less ($39.99 vs $99.99).
For anyone who wants a compact, safe blower heater with a real thermostat, a remote and a long warranty. It is the smaller, lighter take on the DR-968.
Amazon $99.99Prices were last checked November 2, 2026 and are subject to change; the price and availability shown by the retailer at the time of purchase apply.
Which should you buy?
- Choose the Lasko 754201 Tabletop Ceramic Heater for value ($27 per kW ($39.99, 1,500 W) vs $67 per kW ($99.99, 1,500 W)).
- Choose the Dr Infrared Heater DR-978 for thermostat (holds a set temperature vs adjustable thermostat dial, no set temperature) and controls (eco mode, timer, remote; no app vs basic; no remote).
Scores side by side
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every fan heaters space heater; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | Lasko 754201 Tabletop Ceramic Heater | Dr Infrared Heater DR-978 |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.9/5 | 3.6/5 |
| Value 25% | 82 $27 per kW ($39.99, 1,500 W) | 25 $67 per kW ($99.99, 1,500 W) |
| Safety 25% | 100 ETL listed, tip-over shutoff, overheat shutoff | 100 UL listed, tip-over shutoff, overheat shutoff |
| Thermostat 15% | 60 adjustable thermostat dial, no set temperature | 100 holds a set temperature |
| Warranty 15% | 50 3-year warranty | 50 3-year warranty |
| Controls 10% | 25 basic; no remote | 75 eco mode, timer, remote; no app |
| Low setting 10% | 50 lowest setting not published (neutral score used) | 0 down to 1,000 W |
Independent measurements
Lasko 754201 Tabletop Ceramic Heater
| Tested by | Noise | Power draw | Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| TechGearLab | 41.2 dB | - | Noise rating in dBA from a professional sound level meter; heat setting and distance not stated. Listed as Lasko Portable Ceramic with Tip-over Switch, linked to ASIN B087YRL86Q. |
Dr Infrared Heater DR-978
No independent test published yet.
Specifications
| Lasko 754201 Tabletop Ceramic Heater | Dr Infrared Heater DR-978 | |
|---|---|---|
| Heating | ||
| Heat settings | 1,500 W | 1,000 to 1,500 W |
| Type | Fan | Fan |
| Element | Ceramic | Quartz |
| Oscillates | - | No |
| Controls | ||
| Thermostat | Dial | Digital |
| Eco mode | - | Yes |
| Timer | - | Yes |
| Remote | No | Yes |
| App | No | No |
| Safety | ||
| Safety listing | ETL | UL |
| Tip-over shutoff | Yes | Yes |
| Overheat shutoff | Yes | Yes |
| Cool-touch housing | Yes | Yes |
| Build | ||
| Dimensions | 7 x 6 x 9.2 in | 9.4 x 9.4 x 12.1 in |
| Weight | 2.9 lb | 10.4 lb |
| Warranty | 3 years | 3 years |
| Released | - | 2019-09-13 |
