Under $40 buys the basics: small ceramic fan heaters and compact tower models that warm a desk, bathroom or small bedroom. Nearly all draw the same 1,500 watts at most, so heat output is similar to costlier models, but the controls are simpler and the build and thermostat accuracy are less refined.
Look for tip-over and overheat shutoff, a certified listing from a recognized safety lab, and a thermostat rather than just a high-low switch. Plug directly into the wall and never an extension cord. Check noise levels, because cheap fans can be loud, and remember that a small heater warms a small space only.
Prices were last checked November 11, 2026. Product prices and availability are accurate as of that date and are subject to change; the price and availability shown on Amazon or the retailer's site at the time of purchase apply. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Best Space Heaters Under $40: Fan heaters
- Dreo Atom 316 Space Heater#1 of 11Full review
For a desk or bedside where a cheap, quiet heater should hold a set temperature. A larger room is better served by a tower or radiator.
Amazon $39.99$39.991,500 W-DigitalETL - Lasko 754201 Tabletop Ceramic Heater#2 of 11Full review
For a desk, dorm or small bedroom where a compact heater with a tip-over switch matters more than a remote or timer.
Amazon $39.99$39.991,500 W-DialETL - GiveBest PTC-SH905S Ceramic Heater#3 of 11Full review
For a cheap desk or small-bedroom heater with tip-over protection and a thermostat. Pay more for a safety-listed heater with a longer warranty.
Amazon $29.99$29.991,500 W750 WDialNo - Black+Decker BHDC201 Ceramic Heater#4 of 11Full review
For a cheap personal heater under a desk or in a small room where you just want heat with tip-over protection. Pay more for a listed heater with a longer warranty.
Amazon $22.99$22.991,500 W750 WDialNo - Honeywell UberHeat 5 HCE210B#5 of 11Full review
For a small bedroom or office where a cheap, simple heater with tip-over protection and a long warranty is enough. Pick a digital model if you want a timer.
Amazon $36.39$36.391,500 W900 WDialNo - Vornado VH202 (2026)#6 of 11Full review
For warming your feet or desk in a cool office without loading the circuit. It will not heat a room.
Amazon $34.59$34.59750 W375 WNoETL - Comfort Zone CZ449E Desktop Heater#7 of 11Full review
For a cheap oscillating heater on a desk or in a small room with tip-over protection. Pay more for a listed heater with a longer warranty.
Amazon $36.30$36.301,500 W750 WDialNo - Amazon Basics DQ1927-Y Ceramic Heater#8 of 11Full review
For a cheap personal heater under a desk or in a small room where basic heat and tip-over protection are all you need.
Amazon $20.69$20.691,500 W900 WDialNo - Comfort Zone CZ798 Milkhouse Heater#9 of 11Full review
For a garage, barn or workshop that needs cheap, simple heat or freeze protection. For a bedroom, pick a heater with a real low setting and a digital thermostat.
Amazon $36.79$36.791,500 W1,300 WDialNo - Lasko MyHeat Mini 201#10 of 11Full review
For warming one person at a desk or in a shared office where a full 1,500 W heater would trip the breaker. It will not heat a room.
Amazon $29.44$29.44400 W400 WNoETL - Amazon Basics DQ1722D 500 W Mini Heater#11 of 11Full review
For warming your hands and legs at a desk without tripping a shared circuit. It will not heat a room.
Amazon $19.65$19.65500 W500 WNoNo
Not quite right? Try these
- Under $50 19
- Under $100 40
- Best Space Heaters with a Thermostat 31
- Best Smart Space Heaters 3
- Best Space Heaters with a Remote 26
- Best Oscillating Space Heaters 20
- Best Fan Space Heaters 43
- Best Oil-Filled and Radiator Space Heaters 10
- Best Radiant and Infrared Space Heaters 3
- Compare space heaters head to head 358
- All space heaters 56