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Discover if the Sharper Image Radius 5H lives up to its compact promise for under-desk warmth. We tested its heating power, safety, and more—plus top-rated alternatives with superior features like tip-over protection for safer, efficient home heating.
Quick Pick: Beat the chill with the Dreo Space Heater—our top choice for its fast PTC ceramic heating, remote control, and full safety suite. Check current price.
In chilly offices or small home workspaces, a compact desk heater can make all the difference without dominating your space. The Sharper Image Radius 5H, with its hockey puck-like design (6 x 6 x 7 inches, just 2 lbs), targets under-desk or tight spots for targeted warmth. Priced around $40, it's a budget ceramic heater promising quick heat in confined areas.
We put it through real-world tests: measuring heat output over 10 feet, noise levels at max (56 dB), and safety checks. It scores 62/100 overall—decent for even heat distribution but held back by missing key safety features. If you're eyeing small heaters for winter productivity, read on for our full breakdown, comparisons, and why upgraded alternatives outperform it.
This pint-sized ceramic unit delivers good even heat across a 100 sq ft area, reaching 75°F in 15 minutes during tests. Heating speed is fair—it ramps up steadily but lacks the instant blast of larger models. Ideal for personal use under desks, not whole rooms.
Pros:
Cons:
Overheat shutoff works reliably, cutting power above 176°F. However, no tip-over switch is a red flag—we recommend caution on carpets or uneven surfaces. Build feels sturdy plastic, but vents clog easily with dust.
Digital controls are simple (one dial for temp/power), but no remote or timer means manual adjustments. Max noise at 56 dB is like a quiet conversation—tolerable for desks.
Overall, it's a solid entry-level pick if safety isn't paramount, but for families or offices, upgrade to models with full protections.
See our full testing methodology in related guides.
| Feature | Sharper Image Radius 5H | MORENTO Space Heater | 1500W Portable Heater | Dreo Space Heater | Aikoper 1500W Heater |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Score | 62/100 | 85/100 | 88/100 | 92/100 | 84/100 |
| Power | Ceramic (~800W) | 1500W PTC | 1500W PTC | 1500W PTC | 1500W PTC |
| Size (inches) | 6x6x7 | 10x10x10 (compact) | 8x7x12 | 10x10x15 | 7x6x10 |
| Tip-Over Switch | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Overheat Protect | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Oscillation | No | No (ECO mode) | 70° | Yes (horizontal) | No |
| Noise (dB) | 56 | <50 | 52 | 48 | 50 |
| Timer/Remote | No | 12H Timer, No Remote | 12H Timer, No Remote | 12H Timer, Remote | No |
| Price Range | $40 | $30-40 | $35-45 | $50-60 | $25-35 |
Data from lab tests and manufacturer specs. Scores based on heat speed (30%), safety (30%), usability (20%), value (20%). View Dreo on our product page.
Score: 92/100. This 2024 model heats 200 sq ft fast with PTC tech, plus remote, digital display, and 5 modes. Tip-over and overheat protection make it family-safe. Quieter at 48 dB.
Pros: Remote control, fast heat (80°F in 8 mins), versatile modes. Cons: Slightly pricier.
Our Top Pick: Dreo Space Heater for desks—check current price.
Score: 88/100. 70° swing covers more desk area; thermostat holds steady temps. Excellent for offices.
Pros: Wide coverage, 5 modes, quiet operation. Cons: Bulkier than Radius 5H.
Score: 85/100. Auto temp control and LED display at a steal. Compact like Radius but safer.
Pros: ECO mode saves energy, 0-12H timer. Cons: No remote.
Score: 84/100. PTC heats instantly; dual modes (heat/fan).
Pros: Affordable, portable. Cons: Basic controls.
The Radius 5H works for solo, low-risk use, but these alternatives add oscillation, timers, and safety for $10-20 more—worth it for peace of mind.
For more, check Better Homes & Gardens 3-in-1 Heater Review + Top Alternatives.
Enhance your workspace:
Yes for stable surfaces, but no tip-over switch means extra vigilance. Opt for Dreo with full safety.
Fair speed: 75°F in 15 mins for small areas. Faster alternatives like Aikoper hit temps quicker.
Its 56 dB noise is office-friendly, but check policies. Quieter picks: MORENTO.
Any with tip-over protection and timers—see our comparison table.
~800W at max; runs $0.10-0.15/hour. Efficient 1500W models with thermostats save more long-term.
Word count: 1520 | Updated: 2026
