Convector Heater vs Fan Heater: Which Should You Buy?
Both heaters plug in and warm a room, but they worm differently. Here's how to choose.
How They Work
A fan heater blows air over a hot element, so you feel warmth within seconds. A convector heater warms the air that passes through it, which rises and circulates until the whole room is evenly heated.
Side-By-Side Comparison
| Convector heater | Fan heater | |
|---|---|---|
| Heat-up speed | Slower, builds steadily | Very fast |
| Best for | Whole-room, longer use | Quick bursts, small spaces |
| Noise | Usually quieter | Fan noise |
| Portability | Often freestanding or wall-mounted | Compact and lightweight |
| Heat feel | Even, background warmth | Direct, targeted blast |
Which Costs Less To Run?
Per hour, similar wattages cost about the same, because both turn electricity into heat very efficiently. A 2kW heater of either type costs roughly 53p an hour at the current price cap rate of 26.32p per kWh. A convector with a good thermostat can work out cheaper in practice, since it cycles on and off to hold a steady temperature.
Which Should You Choose?
- Choose a convector heater for bedrooms, living rooms and home offices where you want quiet, steady warmth for a few hours.
- Choose a fan heater if you want instant heat in a small room, bathroom or workspace for a short time.
Browse both: See our convector heaters and fan heaters and compare wattage, thermostat and timer features.
