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?
