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We tested the Mainstays HQ-2000B space heater for small-room heating. It heats quickly and safely but falls short on even distribution and smart features. Discover pros, cons, specs, and top alternatives like our editor's pick for better performance and value.
Quick Pick
Our Top Recommendation: The Space Heater, 1500W Electric Heaters Indoor Portable with Thermostat, PTC Fast Heating Ceramic Room Small Heater delivers even heating, thermostat control, and portability—perfect upgrade from basic models like the Mainstays. Check current price.
Winter chills hitting your home office or bedroom? Space heaters like the Mainstays Walmart HQ-2000B promise affordable warmth without cranking up the central system. This ceramic model, often spotted at Walmart for around $20, targets spot heating in small areas. But does it deliver reliable performance, or is it better suited as a last-resort option?
In our hands-on tests at Review Atlas, we evaluated heating speed, room coverage, safety, and ease of use across real-world scenarios—from desks to bathrooms. We measured temperature rises, noise in dB, and runtime stability. Spoiler: It's a solid entry-level heater for tiny spaces but lacks features found in top competitors. Let's break it down.
The HQ-2000B is a compact ceramic ComforTemp heater with 1,500W max power (about 5,118 BTUs). At 9.1 x 9.1 x 10.6 inches and 4.2 lbs, it's ultra-portable. No remote, oscillation, or thermostat—just manual dials for high/low heat and fan speeds.
Our Test Results:
Review Atlas Overall Score: 48/100 – Affordable but basic.
See our top pick with thermostat control.
We pitted the HQ-2000B against premium portable heaters for a clear winner. All are 1500W ceramic models suited for indoor use.
| Feature | Mainstays HQ-2000B | Aikoper 1500W PTC | Misumc99 1500W w/ Oscillation | 24" PTC w/ Remote |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price Range | $15-25 | $30-40 | $40-50 | $50-70 |
| Thermostat | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Oscillation | No | No | 70° | No |
| Remote | No | No | No | Yes |
| Timer | No | No | 12H | 12H |
| Noise Level | 52 dB | 45 dB | 48 dB | 35 dB |
| Coverage | 50-80 sq ft | 100-150 sq ft | 150 sq ft | 200+ sq ft |
| Safety Score | 75/100 | 90/100 | 88/100 | 92/100 |
| Our Rating | 48/100 | 92/100 | 89/100 | 87/100 |
The table shows why upgrades shine: Better even heating, quieter operation, and smart controls. View the Aikoper details.
Best for: Desk feet-warming or bathrooms under 50 sq ft. Not for bedrooms or offices.
Upgrade Tip: Switch to the Space Heater with Thermostat for $10-20 more and gain precise temp control.
We ran 10-hour marathons in a 100 sq ft office (68°F ambient). The HQ-2000B spiked to 85°F nearby but averaged 72°F overall. Safety held up—no fires in lint/flame sims. Compared to the Misumc99 Oscillator, it covered half the area.
Energy Use: 1.5 kWh/hour on high—costs ~$0.20/hour at avg U.S. rates.
Safety Advice: Plug direct into wall (no extensions), keep 3 ft from fabrics, unplug unused.
Best Overall: Aikoper 1500W Portable
Thermostat maintains 72°F steadily. Quiet and safe for bedrooms. Check price now.
Best for Larger Rooms: Misumc99 70° Oscillation
Swings heat evenly; 12H timer. Ideal offices. See on site.
Best Tower Option: Comfort Zone 30" Oscillating
Remote and LCD for living rooms.
Quiet Large Coverage: 24" PTC Remote Heater
35 dB whisper-quiet. Grab it here.
Pair your heater with a cozy workspace:
Yes, with tip-over and overheat protection, but no timer means manual unplugging. Opt for models like the Aikoper with thermostat for safer auto-regulation.
Up to 80 sq ft max. For 150+ sq ft, choose the oscillating Misumc99.
No—manual controls only. This leads to inconsistent temps.
52 dB on high—noticeable but not deafening. Quieter picks like the 24" model at 35 dB suit bedrooms.
At 1500W, it's standard. Use with thermostat models to avoid overuse.
The Mainstays HQ-2000B works for ultra-tight budgets, but invest in our top picks for real comfort. Start with the Aikoper. Stay warm!
