A well-chosen fire pit can turn any outdoor space into a cozy gathering spot, whether you’re entertaining guests or relaxing under the stars. With so many styles and fuel types available, there’s a fire pit for every setup and budget. To help you decide on the right fire pit for your home, we reviewed some of the best models for grilling, ambiance, portability, and more.
Top 5 Fire Pits
- Ciays 2-in-1 Propane Fire Pit Table: Best Overall
- Gas One Portable Wood-Burning Fire Pit: Most Portable
- OutVue 3-in-1 Fire Pit: Most Versatile
- Ciays Propane Fire Pit Table: Best for Smaller Spaces
- HGD Smokeless Fire Pit: Best Smokeless Option
Compare the Best Fire Pits
If you’re ready to start shopping for fire pits, comparing top options can help you narrow down your list. Check out our picks for the best fire pits and compare key features below.
| Product | Size | Design | Material | Fuel Type | Table Conversation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Ciays 2-in-1 Propane Fire Pit TableCheck Price | 43 inches | Rectangle | Steel | Propane | Yes |
Gas One Portable Wood-Burning Fire PitCheck Price | 22 inches | Round | Metal | Wood | No |
OutVue 3-in-1 Fire PitCheck Price | 36 inches | Round | Iron | Wood | No |
Ciays Propane Fire Pit TableCheck Price | 28 inches | Square | Steel | Gas | Yes |
HGD Smokeless Fire PitCheck Price | 27.5 inches | Round | Steel | Wood | No |
Our Reviews of the Best Fire Pits
Best Overall
Ciays 2-in-1 Propane Fire Pit Table
Good for: Homeowners who want a stylish, high-heat fire pit that doubles as a patio table for entertaining guests.
The Ciays Propane Fire Pit Table combines reliable heating with a clean, functional design that fits seamlessly into most outdoor spaces. With a 60,000 British thermal unit (BTU) output, this fire pit delivers consistent warmth for cool evenings, while the extended table edge adds space for drinks, snacks, or small gatherings. A built-in ignition system and adjustable flame control make it easy to operate, and the included cover lets you convert this fire pit into a full tabletop when not in use.
Pros and Cons of Ciays 2-in-1 Propane Fire Pit Table
- Doubles as a functional outdoor table
- Generates strong, consistent heat with 60,000 BTUs
- Includes an extended table edge that adds room for drinks and snacks
- Doesn’t include a wind guard to protect the flames
- May feel too narrow for full meals or larger gatherings
What People Are Saying About The Ciays 2-in-1 Propane Fire Pit Table
Many Amazon customers have said that the Ciays Propane Fire Pit Table was well-made, easy to assemble, and delivered strong, consistent heat. Some reviewers mentioned that it looks more expensive than it is and blends well with patio decor. A few minor drawbacks were noted, including time-consuming assembly, occasional shipping damage, and an included cover that’s too small when using a wind guard.
Most Portable
Gas One Portable Wood-Burning Fire Pit
Good for: Homeowners looking for a compact, affordable wood-burning fire pit for casual backyard use or travel.
The Gas One Portable Wood-Burning Fire Pit offers a compact, no-frills option for backyard gatherings, camping trips, and beach outings. Built from rust-resistant alloy steel with a high-temperature coating, this fire pit can handle repeated use and varying weather conditions. The 21.5-inch bowl allows just enough space for small fires, while the included mesh lid contains sparks and maintains airflow. Easy to assemble and move, the fire pit also includes a fire poker for safe handling of logs or charcoal.
Pros and Cons of Gas One Portable Wood-Burning Fire Pit
- Contains sparks and maintains airflow with an included mesh lid
- Made with rust- and heat-resistant construction for outdoor durability
- Offers a lightweight, compact design for easy portability
- Offers limited heat output and log capacity
- Requires cleanup after every use
What People Are Saying About The Gas One Portable Wood-Burning Fire Pit
Many positive reviews have noted that the Gas One Fire Pit was easy to assemble and offered great value for the price, especially for casual backyard use and camping. Many customers liked its lightweight design, simple setup, and heat-resistant finish. However, feedback on its build quality varied. Some reviewers said the fire pit was sturdy and resisted rust, while others reported bent parts, missing hardware, and difficulty fitting pieces together. Several customers also noted that the mesh lid sat loosely on the bowl, which was a concern in windy conditions.
Most Versatile
OutVue 3-in-1 Fire Pit
Good for: Homeowners who want a multifunctional fire pit for grilling, entertaining, and outdoor dining year-round.
The OutVue Fire Pit stands out for its 3-in-1 functionality, serving as a fire pit, grill, and outdoor table. It includes two swivel cooking grates, a removable lid, and a wide tabletop that comfortably seats 6–8 people when the fire isn’t in use. Built from durable, heat-resistant alloy steel with a high-temperature powder coating, this fire pit is designed for year-round outdoor use. It also includes a rain cover and a fire poker, and features adjustable grates and a sturdy four-leg base for better stability on uneven ground.
Pros and Cons of OutVue 3-in-1 Fire Pit
- Functions as a fire pit, grill, and outdoor table
- Includes two adjustable, 360-degree swivel cooking grates
- Offers a large tabletop that seats up to eight people when the lid is on
- Require regular cleanup and ember disposal due to wood-fueled design
- Take up significant space, making it less ideal for smaller patios
What People Are Saying About The OutVue 3-in-1 Fire Pit
Amazon customers have said they appreciate the OutVue fire pit’s multi-functionality, noting it worked well as both a fire ring and a large table. Many found the size ideal for seating up to eight people and accommodating larger logs, calling it a great value for the price. Some users praised its smart design, easy assembly, and built-in accessory storage, while others reported issues with the thin metal construction and questioned its long-term durability. A few other reviewers raised safety concerns, including heat transfer to decking surfaces and loose-fitting parts.
Best for Smaller Spaces
Ciays Propane Fire Pit Table
Good for: Homeowners looking for a compact, stylish fire pit for patios, porches, or smaller outdoor spaces.
The Ciays Propane Fire Pit Table offers a clean-burning, space-efficient solution for outdoor warmth and ambiance. With a 50,000 BTU output, it delivers strong, consistent heat and is easy to control with a built-in ignition and flame-adjustment knob. The extra-wide base adds stability and safety, especially for families with kids or pets, while the included dust cover protects the unit when not in use. Designed to double as a coffee table, this compact fire pit is a smart choice for patios and decks where space is limited but style and comfort matter.
Pros and Cons of Ciays Propane Fire Pit Table
- Built with an extra-wide anti-tip base for improved safety
- Fits well in small spaces thanks to its compact design
- Includes decorative blue glass stones for enhanced the flame effect
- Doesn’t include a wind guard
- Not suited for large seating areas or bigger groups
What People Are Saying About The Ciays Propane Fire Pit Table
Positive reviews for the Ciays Propane Fire Pit Table have mentioned its sleek design, cozy ambiance, and strong heat output. Many homeowners called it a great value for the price, especially for smaller outdoor spaces like patios and screened-in porches. However, several customers reported that the igniter was not working properly and that they have had frustrating experiences with customer support. A few reviews also noted minor cosmetic damage or quality concerns on arrival.
Best Smokeless Option
HGD Smokeless Fire Pit
Good for: Homeowners who want a low-smoke fire pit that doubles as an outdoor cooking station for grilling.
The HGD Smokeless Fire Pit combines advanced airflow technology with outdoor cooking functionality, making it a good all-in-one option for both warmth and grilling. Its double-wall stainless steel construction minimizes smoke, while a built-in grill grate adds versatility for backyard meals or campsite cookouts. The included base stand improves stability on uneven surfaces, and the ash pan allows for quick cleanup after the fire dies down.
Pros and Cons of HGD Smokeless Fire Pit
- Built with stainless steel for better durability and weather-resistance
- Incorporates a smokeless design to improve air quality
- Provides an ash pan for easy post-fire cleanup
- Doesn’t include a spark screen or lid for additional flame protection
- May limit log capacity and heat output due to its smaller size
What People Are Saying About The HGD Smokeless Fire Pit
Many Amazon reviewers have praised the HGD Smokeless Fire Pit for its solid heat output, efficient burn, and overall value, particularly compared to more expensive smokeless models. Customers have noted that the fire pit produced very little smoke once fully lit. However, some users reported occasional smoke and short burn times depending on fuel type. A few customers also described minor damage upon arrival or durability issues after heavy use, particularly with the ashtray and grate.
Fire Pit Buying Guide
When choosing the best fire pit for your home, we recommend you consider factors like the unit’s size, fuel source, materials, and safety features. We’ll break down the key features to help you find the right fire pit for your space and how you plan to use it.
Fuel Type
The type of fuel your fire pit uses will impact its convenience, maintenance, and your overall experience. Below is a breakdown of the most common fuel options.
- Wood-burning: These fire pits offer a classic campfire experience with crackling flames and wood smoke, but they require regular stoking and produce ash.
- Propane: Propane fire pits are easy to ignite and maintain a consistent flame without smoke, though they require a fuel tank and don’t offer the same cooking versatility as other types.
- Natural gas: Natural gas models hook up to a gas line, which is ideal for permanent installations, but means less portability. You can convert some propane fire pits to natural gas using a compatible kit, but this typically requires professional installation and access to a dedicated gas line.
- Gel fuel: Gel fuel fire pits produce clean-burning flames with no smoke, though they’re typically smaller and better suited to ambiance than warmth.
Fire Pit Heat Ratings
Heat output varies by fuel type, and not all fire pits are rated the same way. Gas-powered fire pits typically list a British thermal unit (BTU) rating, which measures the amount of heat produced. The higher the BTU, the more warmth you can expect. Most propane and natural gas models range from 30,000–60,000 BTUs, with larger units offering even more heat for bigger spaces.
Wood-burning fire pits typically don’t include a BTU rating because their heat depends on factors like the type of wood, moisture content, and fire management. While they can produce intense, radiant heat, this type of fire pit is typically harder to control and measure than gas models.
Material and Durability
Fire pits come in a range of materials, each with trade-offs in durability, heat retention, and aesthetics.
- Steel is lightweight and affordable, but it may rust without a protective coating.
- Cast iron retains heat well and is highly durable, though it’s heavy and less portable.
- Stainless steel resists rust and offers a sleek, modern look, but typically comes at a higher price point.
- Copper provides excellent weather resistance and visual appeal, though it may discolor over time.
Safety Features
Safety is always an important priority, especially for wood-burning fire pits that produce open flames, sparks, and hot embers. Look for models that include accessories like spark screens to contain flying embers, heat shields to protect decks or patios, and sturdy bases to reduce the risk of tipping.
For propane and natural gas fire pits, check for Canadian Standards Association (CSA) certification, which ensures a fire pit meets North American safety and performance standards. CSA-certified models are more likely to feature safe gas connections, reliable ignition, and proper flame control.
Size and Portability
Think about how and where you plan to use your fire pit. For larger gatherings or bigger outdoor spaces, a full-size backyard fire pit with a wide basin delivers more heat and offers enough room to accommodate more guests. These models often become permanent fixtures and may be heavier or less mobile than other types of fire pits.
If you’re looking for a fire pit suited to camping, tailgating, or a small patio, consider compact or foldable models designed for easy transport and storage. Some tabletop models also work well for tight spaces, and you can move or store them with minimal effort.
Accessories and Add-Ons
Accessories can expand your fire pit’s functionality and improve safety or convenience. Some fire pits come bundled with helpful extras, while others may require separate purchases.
Common fire pit accessories include:
- Fire pokers for adjusting logs
- Grates or grills for cooking
- Mesh lids for added spark protection
- Rain covers to prevent rust
Check Local Regulations
Some municipalities and homeowners’ associations (HOAs) restrict fire pit use, especially wood-burning models or open flames on decks or balconies. Before purchasing, check your local fire code and HOA rules to avoid fines or required removal.
Fire Pit Safety Tips
Whether you’re enjoying a backyard gathering or a campsite cookout, following these key fire safety practices helps prevent accidents, property damage, or injury.
- Place your fire pit on a stable, fire-resistant surface such as concrete, stone, or brick. Avoid setting it directly on grass, wooden decks, or uneven ground.
- Keep at least 20 feet of clearance between the fire pit and any buildings, trees, fences, or overhangs.
- Never leave a fire unattended, especially with children or pets nearby.
- Use a spark screen or mesh lid with wood-burning models to contain flying embers.
- Let the fire burn down naturally, then spread the ashes to help them cool.
- Douse the remaining embers with water and stir until everything is cool to the touch.
- Dispose of ashes in a metal ash bucket—never in plastic or paper containers.
FAQs About Fire Pits
How far should you place your fire pit from your home or nearby structures?
Place your fire pit at least 20 feet away from your home, fences, trees, and other nearby structures. Always check local codes, as some areas may require a larger distance for wood-burning models.
Do I need to put sand in the bottom of a wood-burning fire pit?
For wood-burning fire pits, adding a layer of sand to the bottom helps protect the metal bowl from intense heat and improves heat distribution. Some manufacturers recommend it, while others don’t—so it’s best to consult your fire pit’s manual for more information.
Can I leave a fire pit burning overnight?
No. Even faintly glowing embers can reignite and cause an accidental fire. Always extinguish a fire completely before leaving it unattended. Let the flames die down, spread out the ashes, and douse the embers with water. Once the fire is out and cool to the touch, dispose of the ashes in a metal, fireproof container.
Do I need a permit to use a fire pit?
Some cities or counties require permits for certain types of fire pits, especially wood-burning models. Always check with your local fire department or municipality before installation.
Our Methodology
To provide our readers with the best product recommendations possible, we rely on several key sources of information to help guide our selection process.
- Initial research: Our research process began by generating a list of fire pits with a significant number of verified buyer reviews and an average customer review rating of 4–5 stars on Amazon. We looked at positive and negative reviews alike, focusing on information from both satisfied and critical buyers.
- Expert insights: Through years of experience, we’ve learned that listening to what others have to say is key to building accurate, well-rounded articles. To complement our in-house expertise, our team looked at reviews and videos from trusted publications and independent testers, spoke with subject matter experts, and drew insights from reader contributions.
- Final product selection: We then began fine-tuning our list by replacing older models with the latest versions and eliminating any discontinued models. From there, we pared the list down by comparing each model’s feature set and selecting the best-in-class options for a variety of buyers, budgets, and scenarios.
Why You Can Trust Us
This Old House has empowered homeowners and DIYers for more than four decades with top-notch home improvement advice in the form of television programs, print media, and digital content.
Our team focuses on creating in-depth product and service review content. To date, we’ve published over 1,600 reviews on products for the home, from doorbell cameras and dining room decor to circular saws and snow blowers.
Once we conclude the research and testing phases, we craft a comprehensive, user-friendly article of recommended products and additional information to help our readers make the right purchase.
