While choosing an outdoor fire pit might seem overwhelming, there are many benefits to owning one. Besides providing warmth on chilly nights, the best fire pits instantly add a beautiful focal point to any outdoor living space while creating a cozy place to gather with family and friends. Fire pits are also extremely versatile, so you’ll be able to use them to roast marshmallows, cook your favorite grill foil packet recipes, and keep mosquitos at bay. However, not all fire pits are created equal. “It all depends on what kind of outdoor space you have [and what you hope to get out of it],” says designer Robert Novogratz, co-founder of The Novogratz. “There are so many different models, from a cooker fire pit, smokeless, and even a fire pit as an art installation.” We’ve created a list of the best fire pits based on their size, fire-starting capability, durability, and more. Our top pick for the best overall fire pit was the Tiki 25-Inch Patio Fire Pit because of its attractive design, ease of use, and nearly smokeless burn. These are the best fire pits. Keep in Mind: If you’re looking for a fire pit to double as an outside grill, this isn’t your best option as Tiki doesn’t currently offer a grilling rack for this model. Tiki is known for creating the ultimate evening atmosphere with its signature Tiki torches. The company’s 25-inch patio fire pit, however, is just as dazzling. Featuring a 16-gauge weatherproof stainless steel construction and sleek black powder-coated exterior, this fire pit is durable against the elements while remaining stylish and modern This fire pit is outfitted with an internal airflow system that results in a stronger fire with less smoke and ash, so you won’t have to worry about smoke getting in your or your guests’ eyes. And while it’s compact, measuring just 25 inches in diameter, you’ll still get an impressive heat radius of up to 4 feet to keep everyone cozy and warm. There’s also a conveniently integrated ash pan that slides out of the base of the pit for easy cleanup with minimal mess. We also love that the Tiki patio fire pit comes with a Tiki wood fire-starter pack, which contains gas-free pellets made from sawdust to help produce a nearly instant flame. Also included with this fire pit is a weather-resistant cover, which protects the internal mechanisms from rain and moisture. Keep in mind that while the Tiki Patio Fire Pit works well for roasting marshmallows or hot dogs directly on the flame, it won’t substitute an outdoor grill like other options on our list since the manufacturer doesn’t currently offer a compatible grill attachment. Price at time of publish: $395 Material: Stainless steel | Fuel Type: Wood | Dimensions: 24.75 x 24.75 x 18.75 inches | Weight: 45 pounds | Accessories: Wood pack, stand, cloth cover | BTUs: Not applicable Keep in Mind: It’s not as long-lasting as some of the other fire pits on our list. If you like the idea of owning a fire pit but don’t want to invest in something more expensive, the KingSo 22-inch Wood Burning Fire Pit is a great option. Sturdy and easy to assemble, this burner has the look of a higher-end model, allowing you to enjoy the warmth and beauty of an outdoor fire at a more budget-friendly price. The frame is built from alloy steel, which is resistant to the high temperatures created by wood-burning fires, which means your fire pit won’t weaken under the heat and become prone to blistering or rust. The included steel mesh spark guard fits over the fire bowl to provide added safety from flying embers, while a poker tool accessory allows for easy tending of your flames. There’s some assembly involved in purchasing this fire pit, but the included instructions are very straightforward and easy to follow. This is a solid fire pit if you know how to start a wood fire, since this pit is not designed for charcoal or gas. Keep in mind that, according to the manufacturer, it is normal for the paint coating on this fire pit to peel off after several uses. Because of its lower cost, this fire pit isn’t quite as durable as other options on this list, so if you’re looking to invest in a fire pit that’s going to last you several seasons, this might not be the best option for you. Price at time of publish: $51 Material: Alloy steel | Fuel Type: Wood | Dimensions: 22 x 22 x 20 inches | Weight: 12.27 pounds | Accessories: Fire poker | BTUs: Not applicable Keep in Mind: This fire pit is not very easy to move since it weighs 310 pounds. If you want a sleek, modern fire pit that will wow your friends and family, look no further than the Arteflame Classic Wood Fire Pit. Its combination fire pit, charcoal grill, and griddle provide extreme versatility, while the contemporary low-base design doubles as an outdoor work of art. This fire pit is heavy-duty and made from extra-thick, food-grade corten steel, which is stronger and more durable than stainless steel, copper, and cast iron. This means it’s also extremely heavy, so you’ll want to commit it to a permanent space in your yard before it arrives. Once you’ve found a home for your Arteflame, we love that it comes with screw-in feet so it doesn’t have to touch any delicate outdoor flooring. The carbon steel grill top offers 1,257 square inches of cooking space—more than double that of a standard three-burner gas grill—so there’s plenty of space to prepare your favorite grilling recipes. Since the fire pit is located under the center of the removable cooktop, the heat creates various temperature zones (hotter toward the middle and cooler toward the edges) that are convenient for cooking multiple foods at the same time. With or without the cooktop in place, the Arteflame can also be enjoyed as a fire bowl, providing a warm and serene ambiance on even the coolest nights. Since this fire pit is meant to be a long-term fixture in your backyard and not a seasonal decoration, it’s weatherproof and capable of withstanding rain, moisture, and changing temperatures. However, it’s quite heavy at 310 pounds, so make sure you know exactly where you want to place it before purchasing it, since it’s difficult to move. Price at time of publish: $2,450 Material: Corten steel | Fuel Type: Wood or charcoal | Dimensions: 40 x 40 x18 inches | Weight: 310 pounds | Accessories: Carbon steel cooktop | BTUs: Not applicable Keep in Mind: Compared to the size of the bowl, the flame is quite small. When it comes to fire pits, wood burning isn’t for everyone. Dirty ash, expensive firewood, and bothersome smoke are just a few of the reasons some users have replaced their wood-burning fire pits with propane models like the Bond Manufacturing 28-Inch Mondavi Gas Fire Pit. The perfect centerpiece for a backyard patio, this beautiful all-weather fire bowl offers fast, matchless auto-ignition and a smokeless flame, creating the perfect ambience for a cozy evening under the stars. Measuring 28 inches in diameter and weighing 43 pounds, this fire bowl is filled with natural lava rock and works well as a permanent staple in your outdoor living space. The bowl’s interior is made of durable steel, while the exterior features a faux concrete finish that’s coated to protect against UV light, extreme temperatures, and salt that can cause damage. To use, simply attach a standard propane tank to the 10-foot regulator hose and start the fire pit via the easy-to-control pulse igniter. You can also use this knob to increase or decrease the size of your flames. While the size of the bowl is pretty big, the fire ring itself is much smaller, so don’t expect a roaring flame, even on its highest setting. Price at time of publish: $243 Material: Stainless steel | Fuel Type: Propane | Dimensions: 28 x 28 x 12 inches | Weight: 43 pounds | Accessories: Natural lava rock | BTUs: 50,000 Keep in Mind: Some parts of this fire pit aren’t completely durable, so you’ll have to treat it with care to avoid dents in the spark screen and fire pit cover. While propane can sometimes be more convenient, there’s just something about the sound of wood crackling in a fire that keeps some fire pit owners loyal to the wood-burning options. If you’re of the latter set, this fire pit from Sophia & William gives you everything you need to create a beautiful outdoor fire any time. Made of thick steel with a high heat-resistant coating, this fire pit measures 32 inches in diameter with a deep 13-inch steel bowl that allows for building larger fires. The mesh hole design in the side of this fire pit draws in air to create improved circulation that results in a longer-lasting burn. Three durable metal legs create a stable base and strong weight capacity, so you won’t have to worry about it wobbling or blowing away in high winds. The fire pit also comes with several helpful accessories, including a spark screen and a fire poker to better control your flames. You also get a fire pit cover to protect the device from weather damage. Material: Steel | Fuel Type: Wood | Dimensions: 32 x 32 x 19.7 inches | Weight: 45 pounds | Accessories: Spark screen, fire poker, cover | BTUs: Not applicable Keep in Mind: You’ll want to avoid leaving this fire pit outside for prolonged periods to avoid rusting. If you’re looking for a lightweight, easy-to-transport fire pit that you can use in your backyard or pack on a camping trip, the Solo Stove Bonfire Pit is an option favored by outdoor enthusiasts for its durability, minimalist design, and ease of use. The Bonfire features a double-walled design to create efficient airflow and prime a secondary burn for hotter, longer-lasting flames. This pit’s wood-burning flames can get up to 400 degrees hotter than traditional fires without creating smoke or ash. And while it doesn’t come with any additional pieces, the manufacturer offers several accessories you can purchase separately. When it comes to ease of use, the Solo Stove Bonfire doesn’t disappoint. Its exceptional airflow design helps bring kindling to brilliant flames in minutes. We also love this fire pit’s portability; it arrives in one piece, so you’ll never have to worry about setting up and breaking it down. Accessories fit neatly into the burn chamber, and it weighs just 20 pounds, making it easy to pack up and take with you in your RV, on a camping trip, or to a tailgate. The only downside to this fire pit is the clean-up process. Because the Bonfire collects all the ash at its base, you’ll need to clean it out after every few uses, which can get messy. Price at time of publish: $280 Material: Stainless steel | Fuel Type: Wood | Dimensions: 22 inches | Weight: 22 pounds | Accessories: None | BTUs: Not Applicable Keep in Mind: Assembling the table can be a bit tedious. For certain outdoor spaces, such as those with large wood decks or other delicate floorings, a traditional fire pit might not be desirable. Luckily, like so much else in our homes, fire pits can adapt to our personal space and style. Fire pit tables are a fun way to incorporate a flame element into your outdoor entertaining space without having to manually light a fire or dispose of messy ashes. Plus, they double as a functional yet stylish piece of patio furniture when not in use. This 42-inch rectangular propane fire pit table from Bali Outdoors has a 60,000-BTU output and an easy-to-control pressure push ignition, making it simple to light and extinguish. Unlike a traditional fire pit that offers a roaring flame, this fire pit table gives you just enough warmth for cozy conversation and dining throughout the seasons. The zinc-plated fire bowl is set into a durable steel base and filled with blue fire glass that adds style and elegance even when the flames aren’t on. Once assembled, simply attach a standard 20-pound propane tank to the table’s hose to get started. The perimeter of the table is made from six interchangeable tiles, allowing you to change the tabletop color at any time, and it comes with a black steel tabletop cover lid to give you more surface space when you’re not using the fire feature. This fire pit table comes disassembled, so you’ll need to dedicate quite a bit of time to putting it together when it arrives. Price at time of publish: $400 Material: Steel | Fuel Type: Propane | Dimensions: 42 x 24 x 24 inches | Weight: 77.5 lbs | Accessories: Black steel cover lid, six ceramic tiles, free blue fire glass | BTUs: 60,000 Keep in Mind: The USB-charged powerpack can be confusing to use at first. Delight in the warmth, smell, and crackle of a wood campfire without excessive smoke. The BioLite FirePit+ produces brilliant flames thanks to special air jets that provide oxygen to the fire more efficiently, minimizing the amount of smoke that escapes into the air. The mesh sides of this fire pit radiate heat outward and provide 360-degree views of your flames at work. The enamel coating on the body of the fire pit is resistant to high temperatures, durable against weather, and easy to clean. We also love that you can control the size of your flame with the help of a USB rechargeable power pack that fans your fire at different speeds, depending on how big you want it. Simply adjust the fan speed directly on the side of the device, or connect the fire pit to your smartphone via Bluetooth. When you’re ready to cook, simply lift the fuel rack, toss in charcoal, and slide on the included metal grate to grill hot dogs, kebabs, steak, and more. The fold-in legs on this fire pit make it easy to store during the off-season or transport with you on your next camping trip. While other options on this list are easy to use immediately, the Biolite FirePit+ has a bit of a learning curve to it, especially when it comes to mastering the power pack. We recommend starting with a small fire (just a few twigs or branches) before attempting to create larger flames. Price at time of publish: $300 Material: Enamel | Fuel Type: Wood | Dimensions: 12.99 x 27.17 x 15.75 inches | Weight: 19.8 pounds | Accessories: Grill grate | BTUs: Not applicable Keep in Mind: You’ll need to purchase a fire pit stand or build a heat-resistant base to place it on. Nothing brightens up a pool deck quite like a glowing fire pit. The 27-inch Asher Wood Burning Fire Pit boasts a compact dome-like design built from durable, weather-resistant ceramic that’ll last through multiple seasons of use. Besides being good-looking, the fire pit doesn’t require any tools to assemble, so you’ll be able to start using it almost right away. Enjoy the Asher as a traditional fire pit or attach the included 19-inch cooking surface to easily grill burgers, veggies, and other backyard barbecue staples. It also comes with a mesh dome to keep flying embers at bay as well as a steel lid and rain cover to protect your fire pit from the elements when not in use. We recommend purchasing a fire pit mat or building a heat-resistant base on your pool deck to protect against heat damage that could be caused by placing this device directly on the ground. It’s never recommended to use a fire pit on a wooden deck, so be sure you have a fire-safe area to use the Novogratz fire pit before purchasing. Price at time of publish: $276 Material: Steel | Fuel Type: Propane | Dimensions: 27 x 27 x 14.5 inches | Weight: 77.5 pounds | Accessories: Fire pit lid, fire pit dome, grilling surface, poker tool, and rain cover | BTUs: Not applicable Keep in Mind: The fire bowl is smaller than other models on this list, so it won’t create large flames. The only thing more exciting than a wood-burning fire pit is one that lets you store all your firewood right at its base—and that looks good while doing it. The Siobhan Wood-Burning Outdoor Fire Pit provides a sleek storage space for firewood directly in its metal base, while the fire pit sits directly on top. The burner is constructed from cast iron with a mesh design that allows heat to escape and keeps all the embers contained. Plus, there’s a log grate that boosts airflow in your fire, allowing for a better burn. We also like that the metal fire bowl is removable for hassle-free cleaning. The open base is made of faux stone fiberglass that conveniently houses all your extra firewood, keeping it dry from the outside elements. At just over 37 pounds, it’s sturdy enough to last multiple seasons, but it’s still lightweight enough to move around your space when necessary. Since the entire fire pit is weather-resistant, you won’t have to worry about sunshine or rain causing damage, either. Keep in mind the actual fire bowl is on the smaller side, so if you’re looking to pit to produce extra-large flames, you might want to go with a different option. Price at time of publish: $276 Material: Polyresin, fiberglass | Fuel Type: Wood | Dimensions: 29.25 x 21.38 x 21.38 inches | Weight: 37.5 pounds | Accessories: None | BTUs: Not applicable Keep in Mind: When brand new, it has a sleek steel finish, but this will naturally develop a patina over time. While there are plenty of reasons to love a wood-burning fire, the smoke isn’t one of them. Not only can the particles irritate your eyes and lungs, but the lingering smell will also stick to your clothes far after you’ve left your bonfire. The Breeo X Series 24 Smokeless Fire Pit helps minimize unpleasant fire pit smoke by addressing its three major culprits: lack of heat, lack of oxygen, or the wrong fuel. According to the brand, the key to a smokeless system is creating more airflow and burning a hotter fire—which is exactly what the Breeo X Series 24 is designed to do. Its patented airflow system features a raised air vent design at the base, allowing oxygen to feed the fire even after the ash builds up. Double-wall construction allows for additional direct heat, while hot air rises through the gap between the two walls to cause secondary combustion, resulting in hotter flames without the smoke. Made from stainless and corten steel, this fire pit is built to last and has a lifetime limited warranty and a five-year rust warranty to back it up. This means that, even though buying a fire pit can be expensive, you won’t have to worry about replacing the Breeo X fire pit after a single season. We also love that Breeo offers a range of cooking accessories to easily convert this fire pit into a convenient outdoor grill, making it extremely versatile. Keep in mind that this fire pit will change appearance over time. When brand new, this fire pit will have a blue steel appearance, but over time the material will naturally develop an orange-hued protective oxide patina. This isn’t a sign of deterioration and won’t hinder the fire pit’s performance in any way, but some shoppers may dislike this aspect of its appearance Price at time of publish: $599 Material: Corten steel | Fuel Type: Wood | Dimensions: 27.5 x 27.5 x 14.5 inches | Weight: 62 pounds | Accessories: Non | BTUs: Not applicable Keep in Mind: You’ll want to use extra-long matches or an electric lighter to avoid burning your fingers. Create the perfect, gooey s’more no matter where you are with the best mini fire pit, which can be used inside or outdoors without needing a fuel source on hand. The HomeBuddy Table Top Fire Pit Bowl is for anyone with a small or non-existent yard who still wants to indulge in an outdoor (or indoor) fire. Measuring 6 inches in diameter, this little fire bowl is easy to use, boasting an extra-large capsule that gives you a decent flame for as long as two hours. Simply add rubbing alcohol or bioethanol to the stainless steel burning capsule and use an extra-long match or torch to get a fire going. It’s constructed from heavy micro cement and raised on three legs, so it’s safe to use on any tabletop surface, including tempered glass, without leaving burn marks or causing damage. This mini fire pit also comes with a metal fire extinguisher device that allows you to put out the flames without making your indoor space all smoky and a set of 50 bamboo sticks, perfect for making s’mores or fondue. Price at time of publish: $66 Material: Microcement, stainless steel | Fuel Type: Alcohol | Dimensions: 6 x 6 x 4 inches | Weight: 5.2 pounds | Accessories: Fire extinguisher and set of 50 bamboo sticks | BTUs: Not applicable
What to Know About Fire Pits Before Shopping
Material
When shopping for the best fire pits, you’ll want to consider what type of material it’s made from, as this can impact its appearance, durability, and its ability to hold up against sun and rain exposure. “There are a variety of materials fire pits are constructed from and each depends on your needs,” Novogratz says. “Cast iron fire pits are a bit heavy but durable. Copper can be trendy, but [it] will eventually stain.” Many of the models on our list of the best fire pits are made from stainless steel because the material is quite lightweight while remaining durable when exposed to the elements. However, fire pits can also be made from brick, concrete, and even fiberglass.
Fuel Type
According to Novogratz, the best fire pits will use one or more basic fuel types: wood, natural gas, liquid propane, or ethanol (alcohol). Wood fire pits are great for building a big, crackling fire that’ll keep the whole group warm and cozy, but they can be more difficult to start than a gas fire pit, which usually only requires you to attach a propane tank and turn a dial. Gas fires also tend to be less smoky than a wood-burning fire. However, gas fire pits require a long hose to supply fuel to the flames, and it can be harder to conceal the propane tank, creating an eyesore. Ethanol-burning fire pits are also an option, and they tend to be less smoky than gas fires but don’t require running utilities. However, these types of fire pits don’t put out as much heat as other fuel types.
Size
Depending on how much space you have in your yard and where you’re planning to place your fire pit, you’ll want to keep the fire pit’s size in mind. The best fire pits are around typically about 25 to 30 inches in diameter (some portable models are even smaller), although larger fire pits suited for entertaining groups can be upwards of 40 inches in diameter.
Additional Features
In addition to warming up your outdoor evenings, the best fire pits can double as a grilling surface, a decor piece, or even a table. “There are so many different models, from a cooker fire pit, smokeless, and even a fire pit as an art installation,” said Novogratz. The best fire pits will come with a removable grill grate so you can cook on them if you’d like and a mesh cover to protect you from stray sparks as you enjoy the flames.
Your Questions, Answered
Which fire pits give off the most heat?
“Historically, wood-burning fire pits were known to give off the most heat, but in recent years, propane and natural gas designs have been greatly improved to make their convenience well worth it,” says Corey Lee, senior vice president at Sunvilla. “Propane or natural gas fire pits are easy to light, clean-burning, and easy to control the flame height and overall heat output.” To find the propane or gas fire pit that gives off the most heat, Lee suggests looking for the BTU rating. The higher the number, the more heat output (but also more gas used). “The best propane and natural gas fire pits allow you to adjust the flame height so you can control the heat output,” Lee says.
How far should a fire pit be from the house?
As a general rule for safety, you’ll want to keep any outdoor fire pit at least 10 to 25 feet away from your house and any other flammable structures. “Be sure to place your fire pit a safe distance from any structure, but also look up,” Lee says. Make sure there is appropriate clearance above the fire pit as well as around it, steering clear of tree branches, awnings, power lines, and other combustible materials. “Fire pits should be placed on level ground,” Lee says. You should also avoid putting a fire pit directly on a wooden deck. The heat, spark, and ash can not only cause damage but can also lead to dangerous fires. Lee also suggests checking with your homeowners’ association or local authorities on any rules and regulations for fire pits in your area. “Some jurisdictions might have seasonal or permanent bans on burning wood, but you may be able to use propane year-round.”
How do you maintain a fire pit?
Cover your fire pit when not in use to keep it looking its best, as ultraviolet light, rain, and other weather elements can cause damage over time. Choose durable materials such as aluminum for propane and natural gas fire pits, as they won’t rust. When lighting your fire pit, be sure the burner area is clear of any debris.
Who We Are
This article was written by Adria Greenhauff, who has been writing about food and lifestyle topics for over a decade. To come up with this list, she spent several hours researching the most important features and attributes found in the best fire pits. She also interviewed designer Robert Novogratz, co-founder of The Novogratz, and Corey Lee, senior vice president at Sunvilla, both of whom have extensive experience in designing fire pits for a multitude of outdoor living spaces.
