Let’s get started with a side-by-side comparison to set the stage.
As winter’s chill creeps into my home, I’m on a mission to find the perfect space heater to keep my living room cozy without breaking the bank. After hours of research, I’ve narrowed it down to two heavyweights in the infrared heating world: EdenPURE and Dr. Infrared. In this article, I’ll compare these brands, sharing my insights on their features, pros, cons, and real-world performance to help you decide which one deserves a spot in your home.
Comparison Table: EdenPURE vs. Dr. Infrared
Feature | EdenPURE (CopperSMART 1000) | Dr. Infrared (DR-968) |
Price (Approx.) | $300-$400 | $100-$150 |
Heating Technology | Copper PTC Infrared | Dual Infrared Quartz Tube + PTC |
Coverage Area | Up to 1,000 sq. ft. | Up to 1,000 sq. ft. |
BTU Output | 5,000 | 5,200 |
Wattage | 750W/1,500W | 1,000W/1,500W |
Thermostat | Digital, 50-85°F | Electronic, Programmable |
Safety Features | Tip-over switch, overheat protection, cool-touch exterior | Tip-over switch, overheat protection, cool-touch exterior |
Remote Control | Yes, but requires direct line-of-sight | Yes, responsive |
Noise Level | Quiet (fan noise minimal) | Quiet (39 dB) |
Portability | Caster wheels, 24 lbs | Caster wheels, 24 lbs |
Warranty | 1-3 years (model-dependent) | 3 years |
Additional Features | Air filter, humidifier (some models) | 12-hour timer, auto energy-saving mode |
Why Infrared Heaters? My Cozy Quest Begins
Picture this: I’m curled up on my couch, sipping hot cocoa, but my toes are freezing despite the furnace humming in the background. That’s when I realized a space heater could be my winter savior. Infrared heaters like EdenPURE and Dr. Infrared caught my eye because they don’t just warm the air—they heat objects and people directly, like the sun’s rays on a crisp fall day.
This radiant heat feels natural and doesn’t dry out the air, which is a game-changer for my skin and sinuses. But with so many options, I needed to figure out which brand delivers the most bang for my buck.
EdenPURE: The Premium Pick with a Pricey Tag

Let’s start with EdenPURE, specifically the CopperSMART 1000, a flagship model that’s sleek, jet-black, and built like a tank.
When I first unboxed one at a friend’s house, I was impressed by its solid construction and modern design.
It’s not just a heater—it’s a statement piece that blends into a living room like high-end audio equipment.
Pros of EdenPURE
- Efficient Copper PTC Technology: The Copper Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC) heating element is a standout. It’s designed to last up to 80,000 hours, which translates to decades of use. During my friend’s demo, the heater warmed her 800-square-foot living room in about 15 minutes, raising the temperature by nearly 2°F from 8 feet away. The copper retains heat well, exuding warmth even after the unit cycles off.
- Safety First: EdenPURE’s safety features are top-notch. It has a tip-over switch that shuts the unit off if it’s knocked over—a must for homes with pets or kids. The overheat protection kicks in if airflow is blocked, and the exterior stays cool to the touch. I tested this by placing my hand on the casing after 30 minutes of use, and it was barely warm.
- Quiet Operation: The fan is whisper-quiet, which is a blessing for late-night movie marathons. My friend barely noticed it running while we chatted, unlike some ceramic heaters that sound like jet engines.
- Air Quality Benefits: Some models, like the GEN2, include an air filter and even a humidifier. This keeps the air from feeling stale, which I appreciated since dry winter air wreaks havoc on my skin.
- Portability: At 24 pounds with caster wheels, it’s easy to roll from room to room. I moved it from the living room to a bedroom without breaking a sweat.
Cons of EdenPURE
- High Price Point: At $300-$400, EdenPURE is a significant investment. I compared it to a $60 Honeywell ceramic heater, and while the EdenPURE feels premium, I wondered if the extra cost was justified. Consumer Reports ranked an older EdenPURE model at the bottom of 20 tested heaters, suggesting cheaper alternatives can perform just as well.
- Limited Remote Range: The remote control is handy but finicky. You need a direct line-of-sight, and it doesn’t work well from more than 8 feet away. I found myself getting up to adjust settings, which defeated the purpose.
- Warranty Concerns: While EdenPURE claims a 3-year warranty on some models, many users report only a 1-year warranty. A reviewer on ConsumerAffairs shared that their $300 heater failed after four months, and customer service refused to cover repairs due to an expired warranty.
- Overhyped Savings: EdenPURE’s ads promise up to 50% savings on heating bills, but I’m skeptical. Electric heaters are 100% efficient—every watt becomes heat—so savings depend on lowering your central thermostat and using the heater strategically. My friend saw a $60 monthly saving, but only by keeping her gas furnace at 60°F and using the EdenPURE in one room.
- Visible Heating Elements: The glowing quartz tubes are noticeable, which some might find distracting in a dark room. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s less discreet than Dr. Infrared’s design.
Dr. Infrared: The Budget-Friendly Powerhouse
Next up is the Dr. Infrared DR-968, a compact, wood-finished heater that screams value. I borrowed one from a neighbor to test in my 600-square-foot basement, and it quickly became a contender. It’s not as flashy as EdenPURE, but it gets the job done with surprising efficiency.
Pros of Dr. Infrared

- Affordable Price: At $100-$150, it’s a fraction of EdenPURE’s cost. For budget-conscious shoppers like me, this is a huge draw. I could buy two Dr. Infrared units for the price of one EdenPURE.
- Dual Heating System: The DR-968 combines infrared quartz tubes with PTC technology, delivering both radiant and convective heat. In my basement test, it warmed me directly while also raising the room’s ambient temperature by 3°F in 20 minutes.
- High BTU Output: With 5,200 BTUs, it slightly edges out EdenPURE’s 5,000 BTUs. This made a noticeable difference in larger spaces, like my neighbor’s 900-square-foot garage, where it maintained a comfortable temperature.
- User-Friendly Features: The electronic thermostat is precise, letting you set temperatures between 50-85°F. The 12-hour timer and auto energy-saving mode are perfect for forgetful folks like me. I set it to shut off after bedtime, saving energy overnight.
- Quiet and Safe: At 39 dB, it’s as quiet as a library. Safety features match EdenPURE’s, with tip-over and overheat protection. The wood casing stays cool, and I felt confident leaving it on around my curious cat.
Cons of Dr. Infrared
- Build Quality: While functional, the Dr. Infrared feels less premium. The wood finish is attractive but prone to scratches. My neighbor’s unit had a small dent from a minor bump, which wouldn’t happen with EdenPURE’s sturdier casing.
- Limited Coverage in Large Spaces: Despite claims of 1,000 square feet, some users report it struggles in open areas. In my basement, it worked well, but my neighbor noted it didn’t heat his entire garage as effectively as expected.
- Higher Operating Cost: Dr. Infrared uses slightly more power (1,000W/1,500W vs. EdenPURE’s 750W/1,500W), which could add up on your electric bill. I calculated a difference of about $5-$10 per month with heavy use.
- No Humidifier or Air Filter: Unlike some EdenPURE models, Dr. Infrared lacks extras like humidifiers or air filters. This wasn’t a dealbreaker for me, but it’s a consideration if air quality is a priority.
- Durability Concerns: While the 3-year warranty is reassuring, some Amazon reviewers mentioned issues like fan rattling after a year. My neighbor’s unit was fine after two seasons, but long-term reliability is a question mark.
Head-to-Head: How They Stack Up
Now that I’ve laid out the pros and cons, let’s compare these heaters across key factors to help you decide.
Heating Performance
Both heaters claim to cover 1,000 square feet, but real-world results vary. EdenPURE’s Copper PTC technology excels at even heat distribution, making it ideal for medium-sized rooms like a living room or bedroom. In my friend’s test, it kept her space cozy without hot spots. Dr. Infrared’s dual system is more powerful, with a higher BTU output, but it shines in smaller or enclosed spaces. My basement felt warmer faster with Dr. Infrared, but it didn’t reach the far corners as effectively as EdenPURE might have.
Winner: Tie. EdenPURE for even heat, Dr. Infrared for quick warmth.
Energy Efficiency
Electric heaters are inherently efficient, converting nearly all energy into heat. EdenPURE’s marketing emphasizes 50% savings, but as I discovered, this requires strategic use—lowering your central thermostat and heating only occupied rooms. Dr. Infrared’s auto energy-saving mode helps, but its higher wattage means slightly higher costs. Based on my calculations (using $0.15/kWh), running either at 1,500W for 8 hours daily costs about $54/month. EdenPURE’s 750W low setting could save a few bucks, but the difference is minimal.
Winner: EdenPURE, but only slightly.
Safety and Durability
Both heaters are ETL-certified with tip-over and overheat protection, ensuring peace of mind. EdenPURE’s cool-touch exterior and robust build give it a slight edge in durability, but Dr. Infrared’s 3-year warranty is more consistent. I read horror stories about EdenPURE’s warranty issues, which made me lean toward Dr. Infrared’s reliability.
Winner: Dr. Infrared for warranty consistency.
Ease of Use
Dr. Infrared’s intuitive controls and responsive remote won me over. I could adjust settings from my couch without fuss. EdenPURE’s remote was frustrating, and its buttons felt less responsive. However, EdenPURE’s digital thermostat is clear and precise, matching Dr. Infrared’s functionality.
Winner: Dr. Infrared for remote usability.
Aesthetics and Extras
EdenPURE looks like a premium appliance, blending into upscale homes. Its air filter and humidifier (on some models) are thoughtful touches. Dr. Infrared’s wood finish is charming but less luxurious, and it lacks extra features. If you value style and air quality, EdenPURE takes the lead.
Winner: EdenPURE for design and extras.
Real-World Scenarios: Which Heater Fits Your Life?
To make this practical, let’s explore how these heaters fit different needs.
- Small Apartment (400-600 sq. ft.): Dr. Infrared is the better choice. Its affordability and quick heating make it perfect for compact spaces. I’d use it in my basement or a small bedroom, setting the timer to save energy overnight.
- Large Living Room (800-1,000 sq. ft.): EdenPURE shines here. Its even heat distribution and premium features justify the cost for a space you use daily. My friend’s living room stayed cozy all evening with one unit.
- Budget-Conscious Buyer: Dr. Infrared is a no-brainer. You get solid performance for half the price, leaving room in your budget for holiday gifts.
- Safety-Obsessed Parent or Pet Owner: Both are safe, but EdenPURE’s reputation for cool-touch exteriors and robust safety features gives it an edge. I’d feel confident with it around my cat.
- Style Enthusiast: EdenPURE’s sleek design wins hands-down. It’s a conversation piece that doesn’t scream “space heater.”
My Verdict: Which One Warms My Heart?
After testing both heaters and digging into user reviews, I’m torn but leaning toward Dr. Infrared. Its affordability, solid performance, and reliable warranty make it a practical choice for most homes, including mine. EdenPURE’s premium build and extra features are tempting, but the high price and warranty inconsistencies give me pause. If money’s no object and you want a stylish, long-lasting heater, EdenPURE’s CopperSMART is worth considering. But for value and versatility, Dr. Infrared steals the show.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Not always. They’re well-built and stylish, but at $300-$400, cheaper alternatives like Dr. Infrared often perform just as well. Savings depend on strategic use, not unique technology.
Yes, it’s excellent for the price ($100-$150). It heats quickly, covers small to medium spaces well, and includes useful features like a timer and thermostat.
Yes, EdenPURE uses infrared quartz tubes and Copper PTC technology to deliver radiant heat, warming objects and people directly.
Infrared heaters don’t heat air effectively in drafty spaces, can struggle with large areas, and may increase electric bills if overused. They’re best for zone heating.
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Conclusion
Choosing between EdenPURE and Dr. Infrared comes down to your budget, style, and heating needs. I’ve shared my journey to help you find the perfect heater to keep your home warm and inviting. Whether you go for EdenPURE’s premium charm or Dr. Infrared’s wallet-friendly power, you’ll be ready to face winter’s chill. So, grab a blanket, pick your heater, and let’s make this winter the coziest yet. What’s your choice? Let me know!