Which heater is better for a large tent?

The Flame King, on paper, because 10,000 BTU beats 9,000. The Portable Buddy is rated for spaces up to about 225 sq. ft. and runs much longer on low.

Which one lasts longer on a 1 lb propane cylinder?

The Portable Buddy. It runs up to 5.4 hours at 4,000 BTU, while the Flame King runs about 2 hours at full output.

Is the Mr. Heater worth the extra $10?

For most shoppers, yes. You get 1,686 ratings, a longer low-setting run time and the option to hook up a bulk tank. The Flame King gives more peak heat for less money.

Can either run from a 20 lb tank?

The Portable Buddy can, with a hose and filter bought separately. The Flame King is built around 1 lb cylinders.

Do both shut off if tipped over?

Yes. Both have a tip-over shutoff and an oxygen depletion sensor. The Flame King adds a fuel shutoff and CSA certification.

Which is easier to carry?

The Portable Buddy, at about 8 lb with a fold-down handle. The Flame King weighs 10.11 lb but folds flat.

Flame King Portable Heater 10,000 BTU Propane Gas Tank Space Radiant Indoor & Outdoor vs Mr. Heater 9,000 BTU Portable Buddy Radiant Propane Heater

Buy the Mr. Heater Portable Buddy if you want proven reliability, indoor-safe certification and a long track record: it is $89.97 at Home Depot as of November 3, 2026. Buy the Flame King if you want more heat and a lower price: $79.99 at Canadian Preparedness as of November 3, 2026, with a recent low of $74.92 on November 1. The Flame King puts out 1,000 more BTU and costs about $10 less, but the Portable Buddy has far more user history and a stronger safety reputation.

Today the Mr. Heater 9,000 BTU Portable Buddy Radiant Propane Heater costs $15.96 less at its best price.

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