Keeping yourself and everyone you love when on the road during harsh weather is important. And when the temperature drops, there’s a chance you’ll find a layer of ice on your windshield. To make sure everyone can stay warm and you can drive safely, you should invest in the best portable car heaters. Your car already has a built-in heating system and ventilation, but they may not be strong enough. By using the best portable heater for a car, you’ll always be able to drive conveniently, no matter how extreme the weather gets. Besides winter, most can also be used in the summer by providing cool air! Not to mention, many of them are affordable. So, without further ado, let’s check out these best portable heaters for cars!
Table of contents
- Xximuim Car Heater
- LARDERGO Portable Car Heater
- AIATE Car Heater
- Mr. Heater Golf Car Heater
- TONSAN Car Heater
- Hxeredue Car Heater
- RoadPro RPSL-681 Heater
- Qidoe Car Heater
- AZLIXLH Car Heater
- Onamicit Portable Car Heater
- QQCherry Car Heater
- Corefyco Direct Car Heater
- FlyBanboo Car Heater
- Our Verdict!
- How To Choose The Best Portable Car Heaters
- Do portable car heaters work?
- Are 12V car heaters safe?
- Will a 12v heater drain a car battery?
Xximuim Car Heater
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The first item on this list is the Xximuim Car Heater! What differentiates it from the rest of our picks is its design! As you can see, unlike other car heaters, this one boasts colored light. This allows it to be more eye-catching than the rest. However, it’s not the only thing that makes this car heater worth getting.
We also love how this car heater can rotate 360 degrees, allowing you to rotate it as you want. Aside from being compact and portable, it’s also low in noise and won’t consume much energy! Additionally, you can use this item to purify the air and cool the air, too!
Pros
- It’s one of the most eye-catching options on the market.
- Its base can rotate 360 degrees.
- It’s compatible with most vehicles.
Cons
- It takes a while to heat the whole car.
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LARDERGO Portable Car Heater
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Specially designed to clean the frost and fog on your beloved car’s windshield, the LARDERGO Portable Car Heater is another recommended option that’ll please everyone. As with many other options on the market, this is a 2-in-1 heater. Aside from defrosting, it can also be used to cool the air when summer comes.
What’s more, we love how this item comes complete with an adhesive pad! That way, you can instantly mount this heater after it arrives. In addition to that, the ABS material is heat-resistant, so there’s no need for you to worry about its durability.
Pros
- Its three-outlet design promises to heat the air quickly.
- Using and installing this heater is a breeze.
- It also features overheating protection.
Cons
- It can only be rotated 180 degrees.
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AIATE Car Heater
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Super compact but reliable, the AIATE Car Heter is easily seen as one of the best portable car heaters on the market. What’s most amazing about this little buddy is that it can heat the air inside your car in just one minute! Once the windshield is defrosted, you can start your car and continue your trip worry-free! It’s truly one of the best accessories for the ultimate road trip!
Using this item is as easy as breathing! All you have to do is to connect it to your cigarette socket. However, you should make sure that the cigarette lighter port is 12V. In addition to that, we love how this mini heater is compatible with most vehicles, including trucks and jeeps.
Pros
- Apart from defrosting and demisting, it can also be used to produce natural air in the summer.
- You don’t have to worry about installing it, as it’s super simple to do.
- It can warm the air in just one minute.
Cons
- Since it’s small, it might not be powerful enough for larger cars.
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Mr. Heater Golf Car Heater
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Introducing you to Mr. Heater Golf Car Heater! Judging by its name, you may think this device is specifically made for golf cars. While it’s true, you should also know that you can use this heater for your car! We think it’s a versatile device that everyone should have. And considering everything it brings to the table, it’s something that really easy to recommend.
Though it may not look like it, it’s actually a fantastic heater to warm up frozen cars. You can connect this heater to a propane cylinder, and you won’t have to worry about frozen doors anymore! And if you’re tucked somewhere extremely cold, this thing can also easily keep you warm when you’re inside the car! For the complete specifications, check out its official product page!
Pros
- It’s one of the most versatile options on the market.
- This heater can defrost the ice effortlessly.
- Though heavy, it’s extremely durable.
Cons
- Some people don’t like how heavy this heater is.
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TONSAN Car Heater
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As you can see from the picture below, the TONSAN Car Heater features a strong suction cup that allows the heater to hold onto the glass. If you want, you can also place this portable heater on an anti-slip mat. And just like many other best portable car heaters out there, it uses the cigarette lighter socket to do its magic.
When winter is gone, you can still use this amazing heater. That’s because it has two different modes. Aside from heating, it can also be used to freshen up the air in your war. Apart from cars, it’s also suitable for SUVs, jeeps, and trucks.
Pros
- This heater can effectively defrost and defog in just 10 seconds.
- It’s widely compatible with many types of vehicles.
- You can adjust the rotational base up to 180 degrees.
Cons
- It can’t rotate 360 degrees.
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Hxeredue Car Heater
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If you’re looking for the best portable heater for a car that you can use all year, the Hxeredue Car Heater won’t disappoint you. During winter, you can use it to defrost the ice. It can heat up your car within 30 seconds only! And when the weather is too hot, you can use it to cool down the temperature!
Like many other options on the market, this portable car heater can be rotated 360 degrees! Thus, you’re free to adjust it in any direction you want. On top of that, it’s super easy to install. All you have to do is place it on a double-sided tape or an anti-slip mat. Then, plug it into your car’s cigarette lighter socket.
Pros
- It’s a versatile option that works quietly.
- You can adjust its direction easily.
- This is the perfect option for both summer and winter.
Cons
- It might not be compatible with all vehicles.
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RoadPro RPSL-681 Heater
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Best Hardwired. Many heaters out there claim to be the best portable car heaters. However, it’s no secret that sometimes the warm air they produce isn’t strong enough. So, if you need a portable heater that’s significantly more powerful, the RoadPro RPSL-681 Heater should be your go-to option!
This heater gets its power directly from the car’s main 12V battery. According to the official website, it can produce around 300 watts of heat, which is more than its competitors. While it’s also more expensive than many others on the market, we can assure you that it’s going to be worth the money!
Pros
- It’s significantly stronger than many of its competitors.
- It’s a versatile option that can also be used for other circumstances.
- This heater is one of the most durable choices.
Cons
- You should note that it’s bulkier than most car heaters on this list.
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Qidoe Car Heater
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Don’t worry; the Qidoe Car Heater won’t produce flames despite the picture below! While the picture is an exaggeration, this product sure doesn’t exaggerate when it says it can defrost your window effectively. Aside from that, it can also be used as a car fan in the summer. Talk about versatility!
As one of the best portable heaters for cars, this 150-watt heater can remove fog and frost faster than you imagine. What’s more, it’s super adjustable. The base can be rotated 360 degrees, so you can decide which area you want it to focus on. Of course, it’s also compatible with other vehicles.
Pros
- This car heater can be used as a cooling fan in the summer.
- It’s lightweight, portable, and easy to use.
- It comes complete with a non-slip mat.
Cons
- It can be a little bit noisy at times.
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AZLIXLH Car Heater
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Best Budget. One of, if not the cheapest, car heaters on the market, the AZLIXLH Car Heater is certainly worth getting, especially if you’re on a tight budget. Though cheap, this 150-watt heater is pretty sturdy, thanks to its ABS construction. Plus, it comes with a long power cord, so you can plug it in easily.
The highlight of this portable car heater is none other than its ceramic PTC technology. This technology allows the heater to emit heat in three seconds once turned on. Better yet, it has adjustable wind modes, and is not noisy! Not bad for something so cheap, right?
Pros
- It’s a multipurpose heater that doesn’t produce much notice.
- We love how quick it is in defrosting and defogging.
- This heater is easy to install and use.
Cons
- Some people think it’s not warm enough.
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Onamicit Portable Car Heater
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Onamicit Portable Car Heater is another recommended option for those searching for the best portable car heaters. Thanks to its three-outlet design, this heater can quickly heat every corner of your car! No matter how cold the weather gets, you’ll never have to be afraid anymore. Additionally, it can also be used in the summer as it can blow out cool air as well.
Moreover, this product is pretty versatile. It’s compatible with many cars, SUVs, trucks, and even jeeps. Not to mention, it also looks cool! While we think the Black variant looks the best, the Grey and Red variants aren’t bad either! Best of all, it’s budget-friendly! So, don’t hesitate to get this heater after learning how to rent a car on Expedia!
Pros
- This amazing car heater is available in three different shades.
- It can heat up the car in just 60 seconds.
- It’s compatible with plenty of vehicles.
Cons
- The double-sided adhesive tape on the bottom is a bit weak.
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QQCherry Car Heater
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Best Durability. When facing harsh weather, you can always rely on the QQCherry Car Heater! Affordable and reliable, this portable heater is a breeze to use. Simply plug it in the cigarette lighter socket, and it’ll warm your car in a minute. With this product, you can finally say goodbye to the frost and fog that cover your windshield.
Named one of the best portable heaters for cars, the durability of this car heater is also worth the praise. Made of ABS material, it’s sturdy and can last for a super long time. What’s more, it comes with a rotating base that can rotate up to 360 degrees. This means you can easily adjust its direction as you want.
Pros
- The base of this car heater can rotate 360 degrees.
- The heater’s ABS material is super durable.
- It has two different modes: Natural Wind and Heating.
Cons
- The suction cup can be a bit stronger.
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Corefyco Direct Car Heater
2
Another highly recommended option on our list is the Corefyco Direct Car Heater. As one of the best portable heaters for cars, it sure doesn’t disappoint. Like its competitors, this heater is a breeze to use. You’re all done by connecting it to your car’s cigarette lighter socket! Plus, it’s suitable for most cars.
Adjusting this portable heater is a piece of cake, as it comes with a rotating holder. Like many other best portable car heaters, this car heater can also accelerate your car’s air circulation. Also, we love how cool this product looks! And if Black isn’t your color, you can either opt for the Red or Yellow variant.
Pros
- This portable heater is more affordable than many of its competitors.
- It’s super easy to install, even for beginners.
- We love how it’s available in many different colors.
Cons
- According to some buyers, this heater feels a bit flimsy.
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FlyBanboo Car Heater
1
Best Value for Money. When talking about the best portable car heaters, it’s only normal for the FlyBanboo Car Heater to be on top of our list. After all, it’s the best-reviewed car heater on Amazon! This item comes with an adjustable rotating bracket, and its base can be easily mounted as it comes with an adhesive.
In addition to that, this best portable heater for a car can heat up in just a minute. Once turned on, it’ll instantly defrost and defog. Apart from keeping everyone warm, this product also has a cold switch to accelerate air circulation. Best of all, it’s backed by 10 years of free return!
Pros
- This heater is compact and easy to use.
- Apart from heating, it can also improve the air circulation in your car.
- It doesn’t take long for it to heat up.
Cons
- Some people think the warm air isn’t strong enough.
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Our Verdict!
No matter which car heater you choose, you can rest assured that it can effectively defrost and defog your windshield. Apart from that, it can also keep you warm! That said, we understand that it’s impossible for one product to cater to everyone. So, we’ve categorized some of the options above according to these criteria:
- Best Value for Money: FlyBanboo Car Heater
- Best Durability: QQCherry Car Heater
- Best Budget: AZLIXLH Car Heater
- Best Hardwired: RoadPro RPSL-681 Heater
How To Choose The Best Portable Car Heaters
Getting a portable car heater is one of the best ways to stay warm when your car heater isn’t working. When choosing the best portable heater for a car, there are some features that you’ll have to consider carefully. From its portability to its power, here are the things to consider:
Power
When you’re hunting for the best portable heaters for cars, you should consider their power. However, this also depends on the size of your car. Most 12V portable car heaters are good enough for compact cars, but they may not be the best option for larger ones.
Weight and size
In addition to that, you should also consider the weight and size of your heater. The best portable heater for a car should be lightweight so you can store it easily when not in use. Apart from that, it should be compact enough to fit inside your car.
Compatibility
Last but not least, you should ensure that your car’s 12V cigarette lighter port is compatible with your car heater. In case it’s not sufficient, you’ll have to get an inverter to draw power.
Do portable car heaters work?
Of course! The best portable car heaters can keep you warm and defrost your windshield if your car’s system isn’t strong enough. And since they’re portable, you can also easily use them for other cars.
Are 12V car heaters safe?
Yes, they’re safe. Since you’re going to use them while your car’s engine is running, you can activate the heaters without draining the battery.
Will a 12v heater drain a car battery?
Thankfully, the answer is no. The motor produces the heat of your car heater. That said, you should note that the blower does require electricity and may drain the battery.
