Meant heat not hear on the title. Can't figure out how to edit on Android app

How much coverage are you looking for? Is the patio open, sheltered, covered? Are you using just heaters, or use outdoor grills, cooking areas: have firepits? What fuels do you have to use?

I ask a lot because what might work or not for you depends on how you are using your space. Like electric heaters around a small eating area might be different than having a wood firepit and wanting some LP at your backs. Those sorts of things.

Uncovered deck.  Only 4-6 people I'm guessing.  probably Propane preferred.

Friends have one of those tall mushroom type heaters, but it works best in a covered area that is sheltered from north wind. I agree that its heat went to the top half of the area. This Heater is similar but seems to have its flame lower which might provide more heat to where people actually sit/stand. There are tabletop versions of these heaters, but they put out a quarter of the BTUs of the taller ones. There is also a propane powered Infrared Heater that is mounted on a wall. The infrared radiation warms where the light rays touch you. I haven't personally experienced any of these.