Dyson Hot + Cool AM04

1. ConsumerReports.org

Review Credibility: Excellent ConsumerReports.org tests and compares 20 space heater models in three categories: smaller room heaters, larger room heaters and propane outdoor heaters. Editors recommend eight heaters using the following rating factors: room heating, spot heating, low risk of burning from touching the surface, fire safety, ease of use and noise.

Review: Space Heaters, Editors of ConsumerReports.org, August 2012

2. Choice magazine

Review credibility: Very Good Choice magazine scientifically tested and compared 14 heaters in this test, for a total of 32 heaters overall. While most heaters reviewed aren't available in the U.S., the Dyson Hot + Cool AM04 is. Choice lists helpful pros and cons for each model.

Review: Untittled, Chris Barnes, May 15, 2012

3. Consumer magazine

Review credibility: Very Good Consumer magazine tests 14 heaters, though most are not available in the U.S. Editors test and compare each heater for performance, ease of use, price and features. The site also includes a helpful checklist of factors to consider when purchasing a new space heater.

Review: Untittled, Editors of Consumer magazine, May 28, 2012

4. Good Housekeeping

Review credibility: Good Good Housekeeping tests and rates several space heaters, but the Dyson AM04 isn't among them. Instead, the AM04 is discussed in a "Road Test." It appears to have been tested first-hand, but not necessarily with the same rigor as other space heaters. The article also reads more like opinion than a professional report, and the AM04 isn't given an overall letter grade. Erik Elbert says he's pleased with the Dyson's performance, though less expensive heaters can heat just as well. He notes many of the smaller details, including the magnetized remote. Like other reviewers, he concludes that you're paying for style with this fan. He does note that the heater is relatively easy to tip (though it does shut off when this happens).

Review: Road Test: Dyson Hot + Cool, Erik Elbert, Not Dated

5. Amazon.com

Review Credibility: Good Amazon.com has many heaters with hundreds of reviews, but the AM04 only garners less than 40. Many users say the Dyson AM04 is a dream-come-true. They say it heats evenly, and it can be directed to a specific spot. They also praise the design, though some suggest that the design is what you're paying for -- not superior performance. Some users complain that this unit is loud, though others say it's no louder than a standard heater or air conditioner. Several users in other countries cite power issues countries, including that -- the heater won't run on local voltage or the local power source damages the fan.

Review: Dyson AM04 Hot + Cool Heater/Table Fan, Contributors to Amazon.com, As of November 2012

6. Buzzillions.com

Review credibility: Good Buzzillions.com compiles user reviews from other websites, like Sears.com, Drugstore.com and HomeDepot.com. The portable heater category has more than 500 products, but the Dyson AM04 gets fewer than 20 reviews. The two color options are listed separately but receive an overall rating of at least 4.3 stars out of 5. While some users say the fan didn't live up to their expectations or performed no better than a cheap alternative, others say it heats large spaces evenly and effectively. Reviewers also like that this heater stays cool to the touch and is safe to use.

Review: Dyson AM04, Contributors to Buzzillions.com , As of November 2012

7. Real Simple

Review credibility: Good Real Simple magazine reviews a slew of space heaters and names nine favorites. The Dyson AM04 is named a Work of Art. Stephanie Sisco's favorite features include oscillation, heating speed and design. There is no explanation of how the heater was tested or what models were considered. Sisco  concludes that the AM04 is "a worthy investment for the aesthete."

Review: The Best Space Heaters, Stephanie Sisco, Not Dated

8. Target.com

Review credibility: Good Target.com sells about 80 portable heaters, though most receive fewer than 10 reviews. Reviewed separately, the two Dyson Hot + Cool colors receive a combined 18 reviews with a combined average of 4.5 stars out of 5. Many reviewers say the design is a major selling point and conclude that the heater effective and worth the money. Several other reviewers, however, complain that the heater is surprisingly loud, even on the lowest settings. One user explains, "It is ‘white noise' loud even at the lowest speed. High speed noise is intrusive."

Review: Dyson AM04, Contributors to Target.com, As of November 2012