Lasko 6435 Designer Series Oscillating Ceramic Heater with Remote Control

Bottom line

The Lasko Designer Series Oscillating Ceramic Heater with Remote Control is one of the top-performing heaters at two owner review sites, Amazon.com and Buzzillions.com. They say it's effective, stylish and quiet. The one professional review we found wasn't as positive, noting a lack of safety features and concluding that heat output is only "fairly good." The heater is comparatively inexpensive for an attractive unit (compared to the Dyson Hot + Cool AM04 (*Est. $400)), but it doesn't have the brawny heat output of some other units.

Performance

Performance doesn't suffer for style. The Lasko Designer Series Oscillating Ceramic Heater looks better than many alternatives, and reviewers say it doesn't sacrifice performance for style. We found only one professional review for the Lasko 6435 (Good Housekeeping), but in general, owners agree that it's very effective for heating a small, closed space. Its effectiveness in larger or more open rooms is debatable. Users also like that it oscillates and has a thermostat and timer, helping it heat evenly and consistently.

Ease of use

Remote control disappoints. The remote control, which ought to make this product easier to use, is a frustrating feature for many owners. They say the remote is difficult to read or use. However, other users say the thermostat and timer are so effective that the remote isn't necessary. The heater is lightweight, too, and arrives fully assembled.

Safety

Low marks for safety. According to Good Housekeeping, this heater can get very hot after it's been running for some time, plus it lacks a handle for carrying -- creating transport issues. Testers also say it lacks important safety features, like a tip-over switch, and that it's easy to knock over.

Noise

Unusually quiet. Users agree that this is one quiet space heater -- uncommon among heaters with fans. There are no noise complaints from owners with a properly functioning heater, though one user did have to exchange a unit that made a buzzing noise. No professional tests report on noise output from the Lasko 6435.