We compare Game and Makro prices on fan, oil, panel and ceramic heaters to help you beat the South African winter without burning your budget
Affordable Heaters: As South Africa shivers through another frosty winter, heaters become household essentials faster than you can say “load-shedding.” But when it comes to buying one, where do you get the warmest deals—Game or Makro? We scoured both retailers’ online platforms as of 3 July 2025, comparing identical or near-identical heaters by brand, size and type.
Most Affordable Heaters in 2025
Price Comparison Table: Game vs Makro
| Heater Type & Brand | Specs | Game Price | Makro Price | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Russell Hobbs 2000W Fan Heater | 2 heat settings | R399 | R429 | Game |
| Goldair 11-Fin Oil Heater | 2500W, thermostat, timer | R1 499 | R1 399 | Makro |
| Mellerware Eco Panel Heater | 425W, wall mount | R999 | R949 | Makro |
| Salton 2400W Ceramic Tower Heater | Digital, remote, oscillation | R1 999 | R2 299 | Game |
| Bennett Read 3-Bar Quartz Heater | Instant heat, safety tilt | R599 | R649 | Game |
All prices listed for cash payment, online purchases, and verified as of 3 July 2025. Subject to change based on stock and promotions.
Heater-by-Heater Breakdown
🌀 Fan Heaters – Small Size, Fast Warmth
The Russell Hobbs 2000W fan heater is a winter classic. At R399 at Game, it’s a straight R30 cheaper than Makro’s identical unit. Compact and ideal for small rooms or offices.
🏆 Winner: Game
🛢️ Oil Heaters – Long-Lasting Heat
Makro pulls ahead here. The Goldair 11-fin oil heater with thermostat and timer is R100 cheaper at Makro (R1 399) than Game (R1 499). Oil heaters are great for sustained warmth in larger spaces—and quieter too.
🏆 Winner: Makro
🧱 Panel Heaters – Sleek & Silent
The Mellerware Eco Panel Heater, perfect for wall-mounting in minimalist homes, is R50 cheaper at Makro. Energy-efficient and stylish, it’s ideal for kids’ rooms or study areas.
🏆 Winner: Makro
🔥 Ceramic Heaters – High Tech, Fast Warmth
Game fights back with the Salton 2400W digital ceramic tower heater—a full R300 cheaper than Makro. With remote control and oscillation, it’s ideal for lounges and open-plan living areas.
🏆 Winner: Game
💡 Quartz Heaters – Instant Warmth
The budget-friendly Bennett Read 3-bar quartz heater is R599 at Game, undercutting Makro’s R649. Great for quick morning warm-ups or garages.
🏆 Winner: Game
💸 Verdict: Which Retailer Wins Overall?
- Game wins 3 categories: Fan, ceramic, and quartz heaters
- Makro wins 2 categories: Oil and panel heaters
If you’re shopping budget or mid-range, Game tends to offer better pricing, especially on fan and quartz heaters that are perfect for small-to-medium rooms.
But for larger spaces or energy-efficient panel units, Makro edges ahead with slight savings and occasional bundle promotions.
👉 Tip: Always check for online-only discounts, store card deals, and seasonal clearance offers—especially in late July and early August!
Also read: Game vs Makro: Which Retailer Offers the Most Affordable Washing Machines in 2025?