The ROVSUN RS-HCG18K 18,000 BTU is the better propane heater overall, rated 4.5 to 3.6. The ROVSUN RS-HCG18K 18,000 BTU leads on value and turndown. The Mr. Heater Little Buddy MH4B costs $48 less ($69.99 vs $117.99).
A low cost 18,000 BTU cabinet heater for well ventilated garages, sheds and patios, with tip, low oxygen and flame out shutoffs. The maker requires good ventilation indoors.
Amazon $117.99For heating a small tent, blind or ice shanty with ventilation, where a light one cylinder heater is all that fits. Follow the maker’s vent rule of at least 4 sq in of fresh air.
Amazon $69.99Prices were last checked October 30, 2026 and are subject to change; the price and availability shown by the retailer at the time of purchase apply.
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every portable propane heater; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | ROVSUN RS-HCG18K 18,000 BTU | Mr. Heater Little Buddy MH4B |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 4.5/5 | 3.6/5 |
| Value 25% | 80 $6.55 per 1,000 BTU ($117.99, 18,000 BTU) | 6 $18.42 per 1,000 BTU ($69.99, 3,800 BTU) |
| Safety 30% | 100 SGS listed, low-oxygen shutoff, tip-over shutoff, flame-out shutoff | 100 CSA listed, low-oxygen shutoff, tip-over shutoff, flame-out shutoff |
| Warranty 15% | 50 warranty not published (neutral score used) | 100 3-year warranty |
| Turndown 15% | 95 turns down to 6,000 BTU | 0 one heat setting |
| Ignition 10% | 100 push-button piezo ignition | 100 push-button piezo ignition |
| Fuel options 5% | 50 runs on a bulk tank only | 50 runs on 1 lb cylinders only |
| ROVSUN RS-HCG18K 18,000 BTU | Mr. Heater Little Buddy MH4B | |
|---|---|---|
| Heating | ||
| Heat output | 6,000 to 18,000 BTU | 3,800 BTU |
| Type | Portable | Portable |
| Use | Indoor (ventilated) | Indoor (ventilated) |
| Heats up to | 450 sq ft | 95 sq ft |
| Thermostat | No | No |
| Fan | No | No |
| Fuel and power | ||
| Fuel | Bulk tank | 1 lb cylinder |
| Hose included | Yes | No |
| Ignition | Push-button piezo | Push-button piezo |
| Power needed | None | None |
| Safety | ||
| Safety listing | SGS | CSA |
| Low-oxygen shutoff | Yes | Yes |
| Tip-over shutoff | Yes | Yes |
| Flame-out shutoff | Yes | Yes |
| Build | ||
| Noise | 32 dB | - |
| Dimensions | 17.7 x 15 x 21.9 in | 12 x 9.75 x 10.2 in |
| Weight | 16.5 lb | 5.8 lb |
| Warranty | - | 3 years |
| Released | - | 2010-01-13 |
