Looking Beyond the PrimeGlo Stainless Steel Natural Gas Glass Tube Patio Heater? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look

Alternatives to PrimeGlo 38k BTU Heater

COSTWAY 87-Inch 47,476 BTU Freestanding Heater

The COSTWAY unit runs on propane instead of natural gas, giving you portability without fixed gas lines. It produces 47,476 BTU, which is higher than the PrimeGlo’s 38,000 BTU. This extra heat output warms larger areas more effectively. At 87 inches tall, it is slightly shorter than the PrimeGlo’s 92-inch frame. Both models feature wheels for easy movement and a bronze steel finish. You should choose this if you need more power and do not have a permanent gas connection. The lower profile may fit spaces with height restrictions better. It offers strong heat in a compact footprint.

PrimeGlo 91-Inch 49,000 BTU Glass Tube Heater

This PrimeGlo model increases the heat output to 49,000 BTU, a significant jump from the 38,000 BTU base unit. It also uses propane, so you are not tied to a gas line. The design remains similar with a glass tube and wheels, but it stands 91 inches tall and weighs 53 pounds, making it slightly lighter and shorter. The bronze steel construction matches the original’s aesthetic. You should pick this if you want more warmth and the flexibility to move the fuel source. The higher BTU rating handles larger patios better. It keeps the visual appeal of the dancing flame while boosting performance.

Giantex 48,000 BTU Bronze Table Heater

The Giantex heater combines a 48,000 BTU heat source with a functional table surface, a feature the PrimeGlo lacks. It runs on propane, offering mobility without gas lines. At 87 inches tall, it is shorter than the PrimeGlo’s 92-inch height. The round design and bronze steel build provide a different look. It includes wheels for movement and tip-over protection for added safety. You should choose this if you need a surface for drinks or snacks while heating your space. The 48,000 BTU output is stronger than the 38,000 BTU model. It is ideal for gatherings where utility and warmth are both priorities.

Hiland 94-Inch Quartz Glass Tube Patio Heater

The Hiland heater offers 40,000 BTU, slightly more than the PrimeGlo’s 38,000 BTU. It stands 94 inches tall, making it taller than the 92-inch PrimeGlo. The unit weighs 65 pounds, which is heavier than the 57-pound base model. It features a black finish and a glass tube design, similar in style but different in color. It includes wheels for mobility. You should select this if you prefer a black aesthetic and need moderate extra heat. The increased height may reach higher into the air for broader coverage. It is a solid choice for those who do not require the maximum 50,000 BTU output found in other options.

Hykolity 50,000 BTU Propane Patio Heater with Wheels

The Hykolity unit delivers 50,000 BTU, the highest output in this comparison, surpassing the PrimeGlo’s 38,000 BTU. It is a table-style heater with a silver steel finish, differing from the PrimeGlo’s bronze glass tube. It runs on propane for portability. The compact design includes wheels for easy repositioning. You should choose this for small patios or table seating areas where high heat is needed in a limited space. The silver color offers a modern look. It provides strong warmth without the bulk of a full-sized standing heater. It is ideal for buyers who want maximum power in a smaller footprint.

Mars Explo 50,000 BTU Propane Patio Heater

The Mars Explo heater provides 50,000 BTU, significantly more than the PrimeGlo’s 38,000 BTU. It uses a conical frame instead of a glass tube, offering wind stability over visual flame appeal. It runs on propane and stands 88 inches tall, shorter than the PrimeGlo’s 92-inch height. The black steel construction is durable and weather-resistant. It includes wheels for mobility. You should pick this if you prioritize heat power and wind resistance. It fits buyers who do not need the decorative glass tube. The higher BTU rating warms larger areas quickly. It is a robust choice for exposed outdoor spaces.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

PrimeGlo 38,000 BTU Steel Glass Tube Patio Heater

Best for: Permanent natural gas patio heating

Fuel Type

Natural Gas

Heat Output

38,000 BTU

Mount Type

Free-standing

Heating Element

Glass Tube

Construction Material

Stainless Steel

Features

Wheels

View on Amazon: PrimeGlo 38,000 BTU Steel Glass Tube Patio Heater Affiliate link

This free-standing patio heater delivers 38,000 BTU of radiant heat via a glass tube. It is built from stainless steel with a hammered bronze finish. The 92-inch height and 3-sided design warm larger areas effectively. Integrated wheels allow you to move the 57-pound unit easily. It runs on natural gas for continuous heat without tank swaps.

Pros

• 38,000 BTU heat output
• Natural gas fuel type
• Glass tube design
• Includes mobility wheels
• Stainless steel construction

Cons

• Lower heat output than 47,000+ BTU competitors
• Requires natural gas line connection
• Heavier and bulkier than portable propane models

Good fit if

• You have a natural gas line on your patio
• You want a permanent, commercial-grade heat source
• You prefer the ambiance of a glass tube flame

Skip if

• You need portable heat without a gas line
• You want the highest possible BTU output
• You prefer propane for easy tank replacement

Verdict: PrimeGlo 38k BTU Natural Gas Glass Tube Heater suits patios with existing gas lines. It offers steady, commercial-grade warmth. It is less powerful than larger propane units. It lacks the portability of tank-based heaters.

2 Also great

COSTWAY 87-Inch 47,476 BTU Freestanding Heater

Best for: high-output portable propane heating

Fuel Type

Propane

Heat Output

47476 BTU

Mount Type

Standing

Construction Material

Stainless Steel

Features

Wheels

Use

Commercial Use, Deck, Porch

View on Amazon: COSTWAY 87-Inch 47,476 BTU Freestanding Heater Affiliate link

This freestanding propane heater delivers 47,476 BTU of heat. It stands 87 inches tall with a bronze stainless steel body. The unit includes wheels for easy movement and a 32-inch reflector for a 15-foot diameter coverage. You get an anti-tilt switch and flame-out protection for safety. It suits patios and decks where portable, high-output warmth is needed.

Pros

• 47,476 BTU heat output
• 87-inch standing height
• Built-in wheels for mobility
• Anti-tilt safety device

Cons

• Propane fuel requires tank refills
• No remote control included
• Bronze finish may show weathering

Good fit if

• You need high BTU output
• You want easy mobility
• You prefer propane fuel

Skip if

• You require natural gas
• You want remote control
• You need wall mounting

Verdict: COSTWAY 87" Propane Patio Heater offers strong heat and mobility for outdoor spaces. It fits buyers who value high BTU output and easy repositioning over fixed installation.

3 Also great

PrimeGlo 91-Inch 49,000 BTU Glass Tube Heater

Best for: large patios needing high BTU and style

Fuel Type

Propane

Heat Output

55,000 BTU

Heating Element

Glass tube

Construction Material

Stainless steel

Features

Wheels

Color

Bronze

View on Amazon: PrimeGlo 91-Inch 49,000 BTU Glass Tube Heater Affiliate link

This PrimeGlo patio heater uses propane to deliver 49,000 BTU of heat. Its 91-inch height and glass tube design create a pyramid shape with a visible flame. The unit weighs 53 pounds and includes wheels for movement. It features an anti-tilt shut-off and flameout protection. The stainless steel body comes in a hammered bronze finish. It includes a regulator and hose for immediate use.

Pros

• 49,000 BTU heat output
• 91-inch tall glass tube design
• Includes wheels and regulator
• Anti-tilt auto shut-off safety

Cons

• Heavier than many portable models at 53 pounds
• Propane fuel requires tank refills
• No remote control mentioned in specs

Good fit if

• You want a tall, decorative flame feature
• You need high heat output for large areas
• You prefer a pyramid-style aesthetic

Skip if

• You need electric or natural gas power
• You require a remote control for operation
• You need a lightweight unit under 40 pounds

Verdict: PrimeGlo 91" 49,000 BTU Glass Tube Heater suits those who prioritize high heat and visual appeal. It fits patios where propane is available and weight is manageable.

4 Best budget

Giantex 48,000 BTU Bronze Table Heater

Best for: Outdoor gatherings needing heat and a table surface

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 propane heater delivers 48,000 BTU of heat with an 87-inch height and a round table design. It features a stainless steel burner, 45-degree tip-over protection, and flame-out safety. The unit includes two wheels for mobility and supports a standard 20-lb tank. It suits outdoor gatherings where a surface for items is useful.

Pros

• 48,000 BTU heat output
• Round tabletop design for storage
• Built-in wheels for mobility
• 45-degree tip-over protection
• Flame-out safety feature

Cons

• Propane fuel requires tank refills
• Bronze color option only listed
• Manual ignition control knob

Good fit if

• You need a heat source that doubles as a side table
• You want a propane heater with built-in wheels
• You require tip-over safety for outdoor use

Skip if

• You prefer natural gas connectivity
• You need a remote control for operation
• You want a square or rectangular footprint

Verdict: Giantex 87 in Round Table Propane Heater fits users who want a 48,000 BTU heat source that also provides a convenient surface for drinks or snacks during outdoor gatherings.

5 Best premium

Hiland 94-Inch Quartz Glass Tube Patio Heater

Best for: Moderate heat needs with mobility

Fuel Type

Propane, Butane

Heat Output

40,000 BTU

Heating Element

Quartz Glass Tube

Features

Wheels

Use

Commercial Use

Color

Black

View on Amazon: Hiland 94-Inch Quartz Glass Tube Patio Heater Affiliate link

This Hiland patio heater delivers 40,000 BTU of heat through a 94-inch quartz glass tube. It weighs 65 pounds and includes wheels for mobility. The unit features variable control and safety devices like a thermocouple and anti-tilt sensor. It suits outdoor spaces needing reliable, commercial-grade warmth with easy movement.

Pros

• 40,000 BTU heat output
• 94-inch tall quartz glass tube
• Includes wheels for mobility
• Variable control settings

Cons

• Lower BTU output than competitors reaching 50,000 BTU
• Heavier build at 65 pounds
• Uses propane or butane fuel

Good fit if

• You need a 40,000 BTU heat source
• You want a tall 94-inch heater
• You prefer mobility with included wheels

Skip if

• You need over 40,000 BTU
• You require a stainless steel finish
• You want a lighter unit under 60 pounds

Verdict: Hiland 94-Inch 40k BTU Glass Tube Heater fits users who prioritize mobility and moderate heat. It is a solid choice for those who do not need the maximum 50,000 BTU output found in other options.

6 Best silver

Hykolity 50,000 BTU Propane Patio Heater with Wheels

Best for: small patios and table seating areas

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 propane patio heater delivers 50,000 BTU of heat output in a table-style design. It features a stainless steel construction and one-press ignition for quick starts. The unit includes rolling wheels for portability and heats up to 200 square feet. It is suitable for patios, gardens, or commercial use. The silver finish and table shape make it a functional addition to outdoor seating areas.

Pros

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

Cons

• Heats only up to 200 square feet
• Propane fuel requires tank management
• No remote control or app connectivity

Good fit if

• You need a portable heater for small patios
• You prefer a table-style unit that saves floor space
• You want quick ignition without complex setup

Skip if

• You require natural gas connectivity
• You need to heat areas larger than 200 square feet
• You prefer a standing heater over a table design

Verdict: Hykolity 50,000 BTU Table Patio Heater offers solid heat output and portability for small outdoor spaces. It fits buyers who want a compact, propane-powered heater for patios or decks.

7 Best deck

Mars Explo 50,000 BTU Propane Patio Heater

Best for: High heat output and wind stability

Fuel Type

Propane

Heat Output

50,000 BTU

Ignition Type

One-touch

Features

Wheels

Use

Garden, Commercial Use, Deck, Porch

Color

Black

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

This standing propane heater delivers 50,000 BTU of heat output. It features a conical barrel design for stability and wind resistance. The unit includes wheels for portability and a tabletop for convenience. It measures 88 inches in height and 33 inches in width. The one-touch ignition starts the flame quickly. This model suits patios, decks, and commercial spaces needing focused warmth.

Pros

• 50,000 BTU heat output spreads warmth up to an 18-foot diameter
• One-touch ignition system starts the heater in five seconds
• Conical barrel design enhances stability and wind resistance
• Includes wheels for easy portability around the patio

Cons

• Black steel finish may show fingerprints and smudges easily
• Fixed height model lacks tiltable options for directional heat
• Tabletop is round and may limit space for large items

Good fit if

• You need high heat output for larger outdoor areas
• You want a stable unit that resists wind
• You prefer a standing heater with wheels for mobility

Skip if

• You require a glass tube design for aesthetics
• You need a natural gas connection instead of propane
• You want a heater with a tiltable head for precise aiming

Verdict: Mars Explo 88 in Propane Heater offers strong 50,000 BTU performance in a stable conical frame. It fits buyers who prioritize heat power and wind resistance over glass tube aesthetics.

Specifications side by side

Frequently asked questions

See also

• forno leonardo espresso 30 stainless steel gas range alternatives
• best natural gas grills