Looking Beyond the Hiland HLDS032-BB Portable Table Top Patio Heater? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look

How alternatives differ from Hiland

PATIOPIA 87.4" Table Style Pyramid Patio Heater

The PATIOPA pyramid heater stands at 87.4 inches, significantly taller than the Hiland’s 38-inch frame. This increased height allows for broader heat distribution over a larger area, making it suitable for small patios where space is tight. It shares the bronze steel build but sacrifices the compact tabletop footprint for a more permanent, sturdy presence. You get an included protective cover, a feature the Hiland does not list. The narrower 18-inch base provides stability but requires more floor space than the Hiland’s square design. Choose this if you need durable steel construction and do not mind a larger, less portable unit.

Mars Explo 32-Inch Tabletop Glass Tube Heater

The Mars Explo model matches the Hiland’s 11,000 BTU output but features a distinct 32-inch glass tube design. It is shorter at 32 inches and narrower at 12.6 inches, making it ideal for small balconies where visibility of the flame is desired. The gray finish offers a different aesthetic compared to the Hiland’s hammered bronze. You must purchase a separate tank adapter, whereas the Hiland supports both 1lb and 20lb tanks with the included regulator. This unit suits users prioritizing a compact footprint and visible flame ambiance over the Hiland’s wider safety features and included accessories.

BTEXPERT 50,000 BTU Propane Patio Heater

The BTEXPERT heater delivers 50,000 BTUs, a massive increase over the Hiland’s 11,000 BTUs. It stands 87 inches tall with a 32-inch round base, offering a functional tabletop surface and wheels for mobility. This unit is much heavier at 34 pounds and significantly larger, making it unsuitable for small tables. It prioritizes high heat output and stability for large patios over the portability and compact size of the Hiland. If you need substantial warmth for a large group and have the space for a heavier, taller unit, this is a strong alternative to the smaller Hiland model.

Giantex 48,000 BTU Bronze Table Heater

The Giantex heater provides 48,000 BTUs, far exceeding the Hiland’s 11,000 BTU capacity. It features a 32-inch round base and stands 87 inches tall, similar in footprint to the BTEXPERT but slightly lighter at 33.5 pounds. It includes wheels and tip-over protection, adding safety features beyond the Hiland’s basic anti-tilt device. The bronze steel build is durable but requires more space. This option fits large outdoor gatherings where high heat is essential. You give up the Hiland’s compact 38-inch height and small table compatibility for a much more powerful and stable heating solution.

Hykolity 50,000 BTU Propane Patio Heater with Wheels

The Hykolity model offers 50,000 BTUs of heat, vastly outperforming the Hiland’s 11,000 BTUs. It is constructed from durable steel with a silver finish and includes wheels for easier movement. While the listed dimensions are minimal, the weight of 39.7 pounds indicates a substantial unit designed for large patios or commercial use. It sacrifices the Hiland’s compact, portable design for raw heat power and a sturdier build. Choose this alternative if you prioritize high BTU output and a robust steel frame over the Hiland’s suitability for small, mobile tabletop setups.

Cuisinart 11,000 BTU Tabletop Propane Heater

The Cuisinart heater matches the Hiland’s 11,000 BTU output but is significantly more compact. It stands only 25.3 inches tall with a base measuring 16.5 by 12.5 inches, making it lighter at 8.5 pounds. This unit is designed for small table heating needs and includes tip-over protection. The red finish differs from the Hiland’s bronze. You get a highly portable solution for tiny spaces but lose the Hiland’s ability to use a 20lb tank and its wider safety certifications. Pick this if you need maximum portability and a minimal footprint for very small outdoor areas.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

Hiland 38-Inch Portable Propane Tabletop Heater

Best for: Small tables and compact outdoor areas

Fuel Type

Propane

Heat Output

11,000 BTU

Mount Type

Table Top

Color

Bronze

Dimensions

23 × 23 × 38 inches

View on Amazon: Hiland 38-Inch Portable Propane Tabletop Heater Affiliate link

The Hiland HLDS032-BB is a 38-inch tall tabletop patio heater with an 11,000 BTU heat output. It runs on 1lb or 20lb propane tanks. The unit features a hammered bronze finish and includes a burner screen guard. It has a 23-inch square base. CSA approval and anti-tilt safety devices are included. This heater suits small outdoor spaces needing portable warmth.

Pros

• 11,000 BTU heat output
• Fits 1lb or 20lb propane tanks
• CSA Approved for safety
• Includes anti-tilt safety device
• Compact 23-inch square footprint

Cons

• 11,000 BTU is lower than many competitors
• 20lb adapter hose not included
• Only one year warranty against defects

Good fit if

• You need a compact heater for a small table
• You prefer the convenience of 1lb propane tanks
• You want CSA approved safety features

Skip if

• You require high heat output above 11,000 BTU
• You want a heater with a built-in 20lb tank connection
• You prefer a stainless steel finish over bronze

Verdict: Hiland 38-Inch Tabletop Propane Heater offers reliable warmth for small spaces. It fits buyers who prioritize portability and safety certifications over raw heating power.

2 Best protective cover

PATIOPIA 87.4" Table Style Pyramid Patio Heater

Best for: small patios needing durable steel build

Fuel Type

Propane

Design

Table

Features

Protective Cover

Use

Backyard

Color

Bronze

Material

Steel

View on Amazon: PATIOPIA 87.4" Table Style Pyramid Patio Heater Affiliate link

The PATOPIA is a 87.4-inch tall propane heater with a pyramid shape. It features a double-layer stainless steel burner for robust heat output. The unit includes a protective cover and is made of steel. It suits outdoor spaces like patios and decks. You get ample radiant warmth for chilly nights. The bronze finish adds a distinct look to your backyard setup.

Pros

• Double-layer stainless steel burner
• Includes protective cover
• 87.4-inch height
• Propane fuel type
• Pyramid design

Cons

• No BTU rating listed in data
• 18-inch width may limit heat spread
• No remote control mentioned

Good fit if

• You want a durable steel build
• You need a protective cover included
• You prefer a pyramid shape design

Skip if

• You need high BTU output
• You want a remote control
• You prefer a round tabletop design

Verdict: PATIOPIA 87.4 in Bronze Table Heater fits buyers who value a sturdy steel build and included cover over raw heat output. It is a solid choice for small patios where space is tight.

3 Best budget

Mars Explo 32-Inch Tabletop Glass Tube Heater

Best for: small balconies and visible flame ambiance

Fuel Type

Propane

Heat Output

11,000 BTU

Mount Type

Tabletop

Heating Element

Quartz glass tube

Use

Commercial Use, Porch

Color

Gray

View on Amazon: Mars Explo 32-Inch Tabletop Glass Tube Heater Affiliate link

The Mars Explo tabletop heater delivers 11,000 BTU of heat through a quartz glass tube. It measures 32 inches tall with a 12.6-inch base. You can use a 1-lb propane tank or connect to a 20-lb tank with an adapter. This unit suits small patios, balconies, and commercial porches. It offers visible flame ambiance alongside steady warmth.

Pros

• 11,000 BTU heat output
• Quartz glass tube for visible flame
• Dual fuel options (1-lb or 20-lb tank)
• Compact 12.6-inch footprint

Cons

• 20-lb tank adapter not included
• Heats only up to 30 sq. ft.
• Grey color option only

Good fit if

• You want visible flame ambiance
• You need heat for a small balcony
• You prefer a compact tabletop design

Skip if

• You need to heat a large area
• You want a stainless steel build
• You require a 50,000 BTU output

Verdict: Mars Explo 11,000 BTU Tabletop Heater fits small outdoor spaces where you want visible flame ambiance. It suits balcony users who do not mind buying a separate tank adapter.

4 Also great

BTEXPERT 50,000 BTU Propane Patio Heater

Best for: Large patios needing high heat output

Fuel Type

Propane

Heat Output

50,000 BTU

Ignition Type

One-Touch Piezo

Construction Material

Powder-Coated Steel

Mount Type

Tabletop

Design

Table

View on Amazon: BTEXPERT 50,000 BTU Propane Patio Heater Affiliate link

This BTEXPERT tabletop heater delivers 50,000 BTU of heat, covering a 15 to 20 ft diameter area. It features a round design that hides the propane tank while providing a surface for drinks. The unit includes wheels for mobility and a sturdy base with ground stakes for wind resistance. It is built with a powder-coated steel frame and a double-layer stainless steel burner for durability.

Pros

• 50,000 BTU heat output for wide coverage
• Integrated round tabletop hides propane tank
• Wheels and ground stakes for mobility and stability
• Double-layer stainless steel burner for durability

Cons

• Heavier at 34 pounds than standard 11,000 BTU models
• Larger footprint requires more deck space
• Manual control knob only, no remote

Good fit if

• You need maximum heat output for a large patio
• You want a surface to place drinks or snacks
• You prefer a stable unit with wind stakes

Skip if

• You need a lightweight heater for easy carrying
• You prefer compact units under 20 pounds
• You want remote control or smart features

Verdict: BTEXPERT 50,000 BTU Bronze Tabletop Heater offers significant heat power and a functional table surface. It suits buyers who prioritize high output and stability over portability and compact size.

5 Best 48,000 btu

Giantex 48,000 BTU Bronze Table Heater

Best for: large outdoor gatherings needing high heat

Fuel Type

Propane

Heat Output

48,000 BTU

Design

Table

Features

Wheels, Tip-Over Protection

Use

Backyard, Garden, Commercial Use

Color

Bronze

View on Amazon: Giantex 48,000 BTU Bronze Table Heater Affiliate link

This Giantex tabletop heater delivers 48,000 BTU of heat with a 20-foot radius. It features a round bronze design with wheels for easy movement. The unit includes tip-over protection and flame-out safety features. It uses a standard 20-lb propane tank. This model suits larger outdoor gatherings where high output and portability matter.

Pros

• 48,000 BTU heat output
• 20-foot heat radius
• Round tabletop design
• Built-in wheels for mobility
• Tip-over and flame-out protection

Cons

• Heavier than 11,000 BTU competitors
• Requires a large 20-lb propane tank
• No remote or app control listed

Good fit if

• You need high heat for a group of 6-8 people
• You want a tabletop surface for drinks or food
• You prefer a durable stainless steel burner

Skip if

• You only have space for a 1-lb propane canister
• You prefer a lightweight heater under 20 pounds
• You want a smaller 11,000 BTU output

Verdict: Giantex 48,000 BTU Bronze Table Heater offers substantial warmth for large groups. It fits buyers who prioritize heat output and a functional tabletop surface over compact size.

6 Best silver

Hykolity 50,000 BTU Propane Patio Heater with Wheels

Best for: large patios needing high BTU output

Fuel Type

Propane

Heat Output

50,000 BTU

Ignition Type

One-press ignition

Construction Material

Stainless Steel

Design

Table

Features

Wheels

View on Amazon: Hykolity 50,000 BTU Propane Patio Heater with Wheels Affiliate link

This silver Hykolity tabletop heater delivers 50,000 BTUs of propane heat. It features a stainless steel burner and a table design that fits patios or commercial gardens. The unit includes rolling wheels for easy movement and a one-press ignition system. It weighs 39.7 pounds and heats up to 200 square feet. You get multi-speed temperature control and a safe, umbrella-like top design for even warmth distribution.

Pros

• 50,000 BTU heat output
• Stainless steel construction
• Rolling wheels for portability
• One-press ignition system

Cons

• Heavier than competitors at 39.7 pounds
• Larger footprint than 11,000 BTU table models
• No remote control or app mentioned

Good fit if

• You need maximum heat for a 200 sq. ft. area
• You want a durable stainless steel build
• You prefer moving the unit with wheels

Skip if

• You need a compact 1lb propane bottle heater
• You want a lightweight portable option under 20 pounds
• You prefer a smaller 11,000 BTU table heater

Verdict: Hykolity 50,000 BTU Tabletop Heater is a high-output option for large patios. It suits buyers who prioritize raw heat and durable steel construction over compact size.

7 Best premium

Cuisinart 11,000 BTU Tabletop Propane Heater

Best for: small table heating needs

Fuel Type

Propane

Heat Output

11,000 BTU

Mount Type

Tabletop

Features

Tip-Over Protection

Dimensions

12.5 × 16.5 × 25.3 inches

Weight

8.5 pounds

View on Amazon: Cuisinart 11,000 BTU Tabletop Propane Heater Affiliate link

This Cuisinart tabletop heater delivers 11,000 BTUs of heat, warming up to 30 square feet. It weighs just 8.5 pounds and measures 16.5 by 12.5 by 25.3 inches. The unit includes a safety tilt switch and adjustable heat settings. You can use a 1-lb propane tank or connect to a 20-lb tank with an optional regulator. It suits small outdoor spaces where portability matters.

Pros

• 11,000 BTU heat output
• Lightweight 8.5-pound build
• Built-in anti-tilt safety switch
• Adjustable heat dial
• Compatible with 1-lb or 20-lb tanks

Cons

• 11,000 BTU is lower than many competitors
• 20-lb tank regulator is not included
• Limited to 30 square foot coverage

Good fit if

• You need a lightweight heater for a table
• You want a simple dial control system
• You heat a small patio area

Skip if

• You require high output for large spaces
• You want to use a 20-lb tank without buying extra parts
• You prefer a heater with higher BTU ratings

Verdict: Cuisinart 11,000 BTU Portable Tabletop Heater offers a compact, safe heating solution for small tables. It fits buyers who prioritize portability and basic safety features over raw power.

Specifications side by side

Frequently asked questions

See also

• hathaway fairmont 6 ft portable pool table alternatives
• best portable space heaters