6 Best Propane Fire Pits for Coziest Evenings in Your Backyard

We’ve reviewed a bunch of the best propane fire pits and narrowed them down to a list of six favorites.
By
Nora Held
Nora Held
Research Writer
Apart from being our main writer, Nora also works for a number of gardening-related sites and magazines, sharing her experience as an owner of a small farm in North Carolina read more
reviewed
Reviewed By
Bruce Williams
Bruce Williams
Expert Consultant
Bruce owns a small farm and loves to grill since his early childhood. He’s a professional cook, but hiking and enjoying the great outdoors is his no less favorite part of read more
Last updated: September 01, 2023
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Are you considering adding a propane fire pit to your outdoor entertainment area? Adding a fire pit and a few stylish sofas adds an alfresco ambiance to your outdoor space. Today we’ve researched and reviewed six of the best propane fire pit options to enhance your outdoor space. We’ve also added a useful buyer’s guide to this article, highlighting the features you should consider when shortlisting your options.

Some of the important features to consider include style, size, weight, and material. Style and size are worth careful consideration because they’ll ensure you pick the right model for your space and your entertainment needs. Choosing the right material will determine if you can use it on your camping trip as well!

Quick Summary

Top 6 Propane Fire Pits Review 2024

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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 9124 people in the past 30 days
9.8
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.7
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.5
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.3
9.8
1
Features
  • Style: table
  • Size: 28 x 28 x 25 inches
  • Weight: 50 lbs.
  • Heat output: 50,000 BTU
  • Material: stainless steel

More features: has a cover lid and a storage space; embossing design

This model is a 28” outdoor fire pit table with a lid and blue fire glass. With a unique and multifunctional design, this model has an antique brown and black faux finish table. It’s ideal for use as a bar table, outdoor dining table, or even a coffee table. Simply cover it with the attached lid when it’s not lit, and you have a stylish table. It also features a handy storage space!

This sleek and stylish model is ideal for people looking to use it as a table during the day and a fire pit in the evenings.

    What stands out?
  • We enjoyed that this unit is lightweight and compact. It doesn't take up too much space allowing ease of movement around the existing furniture. It's sturdy, and the lid works great to keep the elements out and forms a solid table for daytime use. A big plus is no ash or soot to clean up. Simply turn it off, and you're done!
    What cons did we manage to find?
  • While the attached rocks give you the feeling of camping, the heat produced isn’t as hot as we’d hope for. If you’re used to sitting around a wood-burning fire, the difference in heat can take some getting used to. So, this unit is more for aesthetic purposes than an actual heating unit.
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 2770 people in the past 30 days
9.6
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.4
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.4
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.3
9.6
Features
  • Style: table
  • Size: 44 x 28 x 25 inches
  • Weight: 80 lbs.
  • Heat output: 50,000 BTU
  • Material: stainless steel, aluminum, stone

More features: auto-ignition; CSA-approved bonfire set; durable; 12-month warranty

This 44” stainless steel gas fire pit allows you to have a clean BBQ evening by being ashless and smokeless. With a heat output of 50,000, this model can create a wonderful bonfire experience. Made from weather-resistant PE rattan and powder-coated aluminum, you’ll find this model to be strong and durable. It’s also rust and heat resistant.

This model is popular because of its auto-ignition feature and CSA certification. With a push-button spark ignition system, it’s convenient and simple to get your fire lit. A quality stainless steel burner and control panel ensure a much longer lifespan.

    What stands out?
  • We like the storage section that allows you to place your gas tank inside the unit. It's safely tucked away, so it's neat and safe. The 5mm tempered glass feature is also very impressive as it provides a safety barrier between you and the fire. During the day, you can conveniently turn the unit into a stylish coffee table.
    What cons did we manage to find?
  • If you’re looking for a unit for heating purposes, you might want to consider a model with more than 50,000 BTU. It provides a wonderful atmosphere, but its sole purpose shouldn’t be heating. The glass also adds a stylish feature but does end up getting charred. So, you might have to replace the glass as time goes on.
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 8654 people in the past 30 days
9.5
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.3
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.0
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.2
9.5
Features
  • Style: ring
  • Size: 36 x 36 x 10 inches
  • Weight: 26 lbs.
  • Heat output: not specified
  • Material: steel

More features: contemporary style; one-year warranty; easy to assemble

The fire pit ring is the ideal heavy-duty insert that’s perfect for installing into an already built fire pit. This metal fire ring is made from 2mm stainless steel and is painted with high-temperature paint to sustain extensive heat. While it’s perfect for a backyard campfire, it’s important to note that there’s no base.

This type of fire pit ring is ideal for people who have built their own DIY fire pit with landscape blocks or even bricks. This ring will help you get the perfectly shaped space for your fire pit.

    What makes it special?
  • We like that this unit can be used for your own DIY fire pit. That means you can design your fire pit exactly the way you want to. All you have to do is lay a few choice materials like molded stone or bricks that match your décor.
    What cons did we find?
  • Despite being covered with high-temperature paint, the paint on this ring melted off. This leaves us concerned about the rust factor of the ring. Perhaps an additional layer of high temp BBQ spray paint would resolve this issue. Depending on the type of pit you’re placing this ring into, you might have to buy additional bolts to secure a sturdy fix.
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 3269 people in the past 30 days
9.3
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.1
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.2
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.8
9.3
Features
  • Style: portable
  • Size: 21 x 21 x 9.25 inches
  • Weight: 25.5 lbs.
  • Heat output: 58,000 BTU
  • Material: steel

More features: CSA-approved; durable design

Not all fire pits have to be large or designed as permanent fixtures. This model is lightweight, portable, and can be easily set up in a matter of minutes. You don’t even need any tools to do it! The NEW Helios burner technology ensures the user experiences a more natural flame. With a burnout of 58,000 BTU, this nifty little fire bowl delivers more heat than some of the bigger table options. It’s no wonder that people are calling this model the best portable propane fire pit!

This product is perfect for people who enjoy the outdoors. And by this, we don’t mean your backyard outdoors but the real outdoors! It’s ideal for camping trips, tailgating get-togethers, or even beach parties. All you need is a 20lb propane tank cylinder, and you’re set to go. It’s compact, lightweight, and easy to use anywhere you go!

    What stands out?
  • We like the low-profile design because it not only looks great around the camping site, but it provides a lot of heat. It’s much more convenient than wood fires as there’s no smoke and no mess. It also takes up less space than a wood fire would. But our absolute favorite feature is portability! Being able to take your fire pit with you wherever you go is a huge plus. This is the top propane fire pit for camping!
    What cons did we manage to find?
  • Essentially this fire bowl hose is only supposed to be connected to a small propane tank. Would it perhaps be more convenient for campers to be able to run the unit off their RV propane supply to avoid having to carry around too much gas? This can probably be accomplished with the addition of another hose kit, but a longer hose could also make it easier!
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 6349 people in the past 30 days
9.0
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.8
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.6
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.8
9.0
Features
  • Style: table
  • Size: 32 x 32 x 25 inches
  • Weight: 69.5 lbs.
  • Heat output: 50,000 BTU
  • Material: iron

More features: easy to assemble; has a tampered glass wind guard; CSA-certified

This stylish 32” propane fire pit is another model in the fire pit table category that offers its users 50,000 BTU and auto-ignition. A tempered glass wind guard and 6.6lbs of lava stones bond together to create a warm bonfire ambiance. With an added metal fire plate cover, the fire pit can easily be converted into a stand-alone table during the daytime. With its stylish design, this unit has been dubbed the best propane fire pit table!

This new model is the 2021 upgrade that offers a reinforced panel that includes a burner with a pre-attached hose and regulator. These new and upgraded features create a better installation with a stronger base.

    What makes it special?
  • We liked how easy this unit was to put together and how great it looks afterward. Surprisingly, this upgraded version of a previous model adds the perfect amount of heat and ambiance to any setting. It looks good with the fire burning and equally great with the lid on as a table.
    What cons did we find?
  • The igniter needs some attention since it tends to fail more often than not. Keep a separate igniter close by to get your fire going if the unit’s igniter doesn’t work properly. This is something the manufacturer should give some consideration to as the product is advertised as an auto-igniter unit.
Also Product Ranking:
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 7545 people in the past 30 days
8.9
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.5
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.5
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.5
8.9
Features
  • Style: decorative
  • Size: 27.6 x 27.6 x 9.5 inches
  • Weight: 62.7 lbs.
  • Heat output: 30,000 BTU
  • Material: stainless steel, rocks

More features: easy ignition; weather-resistant cover

If you’re looking for the best small propane patio fire pit, this model is definitely what you’re looking for. With a heat output of 30,000 BTU, it produces the perfect amount of heat for your patio. Aside from its compact size, this fire pit combines decorative stonework with a stainless-steel burner and lava rocks to create a functional and elegant little fire pit that will be an asset to your evenings out on the porch.

This propane fire pit is ideal for people who enjoy spending time on the patio or porch. It’s perfect for placing on your patio to provide a romantic or cozy atmosphere for a small group of people.

    Why are we impressed?
  • We enjoyed the ‘no assembly necessary’ part of this unit. This cozy little unit is ready to use straight out of the box. So, there’s no struggling with panels that don’t fit, short screws, or some of the other installation issues often encountered. Simply take it out of the box, hook it up, and you’re on the fast track to an enjoyable evening of outdoor lounging.
    What negatives must you be aware of?
  • We feel the quantity of lava rocks included in the package isn’t enough. While it seems like a petty gripe, it affects the general aesthetic of the unit. To get the whole effect presented, we had to add additional lava rocks. Several customers agree with us on this issue!
Also Product Ranking:

Things to Consider

If you’re buying a propane fire pit for the first time, you could find yourself overwhelmed by all the options available. Propane fire pits come in a host of different shapes, sizes, and materials which means you’re guaranteed to find the model best suited to your needs. But which one’s your ideal buy?
We’ve compiled a handy buyer’s guide to highlight the features you should consider when you start shortlisting your options. We’ll also give you some of the benefits of choosing a propane fire pit.

Why do you need a propane fire pit?

6 Best Propane Fire Pits for Coziest Evenings in Your BackyardUnlike their wood-burning counterparts, propane fire pits take a great deal of maintenance and work out of spending a fun evening around the fire. Some of the top reasons to have a propane fire pit include the following:

  • No clean-up of messy ashes
  • They can be moved around without any fuss
  • It can be used with or without fire
  • It can be resold if you feel like upgrading

Features to consider before you buy a propane fire pit

As with everything else you purchase, careful consideration should go into selecting the right propane fire pit for your needs and the space available. Some of the important features to consider include weight, style, and heat output.

Style

Choosing the style of your fire pit is easy due to the vast range of shapes and designs available on the market. You might want your fire pit to fit in with the decor of your backyard or entertainment area.

You should also consider how you plan to use it and look for features that fit your needs.

Will it be to keep your outdoor area warm only, or will you need it to double as a table as well? Models like the U-MAX 44in Outdoor Propane Gas Fire Pit Table is an outstanding example of a stylish unit that looks great as a fire pit and even better as a daytime coffee table.

Size

The size of fire pits varies from large built-in designs to smaller portable models. If you’re buying a ready-made fire pit from your local supplier, you’re looking at an average size of 24” – 30”. Built-in units can vary from 36”- 58”.

Height can vary from low on the ground to taller models. Consider the height of your chairs as this will affect the reflected warmth. If your fire pit is too high, you won’t enjoy the heat. The standard seat height is usually 18″. Experts agree that optimum warmth comes from a lower fire pit.

When you’re calculating the size of your fire pit, the golden rule is to leave between 5 and 7 feet between the chairs and the fire pit. This’ll ensure you have enough space to move around comfortably without the risk of injury. The SNAN Propane Gas Fire Pit Table, with its measurements of 32″ x 32″ x 25″, is the perfect size for a small space. A big advantage is that it doubles up as a table during the daytime.

Weight

Weight is important if you’re looking for a fire pit that you could use at other locations, such as during a camping trip. Larger fire pits built of natural stone won’t be easy to take with you on your excursions. If you have plans to take your fire pit on your outdoor adventure, it would be a good idea to invest in a portable unit. The Outland Firebowl 863 Cypress Outdoor Fire Pit mentioned in our review section is one of the best units for traveling and camping use. It’s a great example of a lightweight yet effective fire pit that gets the job done!

Heat output

6 Best Propane Fire Pits for Coziest Evenings in Your BackyardIt’s also important to consider how hot you want your fire pit to be. Are you going to be using our fire pit in the winter or primarily in the summer? In the winter, you might want to add a few warm woolen blankets to help keep your guests warm.

Propane fire pits have BTU outputs that could range anywhere from 15,000 to 100,000 BTUs. This is dependent on the size of your fire pit.

The average propane fire pit generates about 50,000 BTU which could generate heat for about 1,200 square feet. The BALI OUTDOORS Gas Fire Pit Table is a classic example of a unit that exerts 50,000 BTUs. If the unit is in a roofed outdoor area, the heat might feel more effective than if it were in the open.

Material

Firepit material types are equally extensive. Options include stone, concrete, metal, or a combination of materials. Here you want to choose a material that blends in or accentuates your outdoor décor. Another pointer you want to consider is the pros and cons of each material.

For instance, concrete is exceptionally durable but stains from soot. Natural stone looks amazing as it blends in with any backyard but tends to crack from heat if not built right. This is where you might want to consider a mixture of different materials. The Best Choice Products Gas Fire Pit on our review list features decorative stonework that’ll add to the aesthetic of any porch or patio. If you prefer something more streamlined, a popular option is the U-MAX 44in Outdoor Propane Gas Fire Pit Table.

Accessories

6 Best Propane Fire Pits for Coziest Evenings in Your BackyardSeveral fire pit accessories will streamline and enhance your fire pit experience. In addition to keeping your fire pit safe, the right accessories can also minimize the cleaning that’s required. Some of the popular accessories you can consider include:

Heat deflector: This stainless-steel gadget deflects heat towards your guests.

Firepit spark screen: Made out of mesh, this screen is designed to keep the fire in the pit and keep you and your guests safe.

Protective cover: This polyester material cover keeps your fire pit safe from the elements. It’s mildew resistant to prevent moisture from creating mold and mildew in your fire pit. It’s also UV resistant.

Fireplace tool set with log rack: This fireplace tool set contains a host of tools needed to keep your fire pit clean and tidy. Tools include a shovel, poker, broom, tongs, and a handy stand to store them in.

Firepit lid: If you’d prefer a sturdier option to a protective cover, you can opt for a heavy-duty carbon steel lid. You can also use this type of lid as a tabletop.

FAQ

How to set up a propane fire pit?

If you’ve opted for a store-bought fire pit, assembly and setting up will depend on the brand and model. Most fire pits are relatively easy to assemble and come with detailed instructions on how to connect the gas, air mixer, and burners. It’s important to consider all the safety guidelines and use your fire pit only as instructed or advised in the user’s manual. Ensure sufficient ventilation if you’re using the unit indoors.

How to clean a propane fire pit?

Cleaning a propane fire pit is much simpler than a traditional wood-burning option. For the most part, there aren’t messy ashes. It’s as simple as using warm, soapy water and a damp cloth. Start by cleaning the burner and edge of the fire pit, which is most likely being used as tabletop or footrest. Keeping the burner clean will ensure the fuel can flow through without any hassles.

How to store a propane fire pit?

Propane fire pits are designed to stand outside, but that doesn’t mean you should leave them uncared for. Leaving your fire pit subjected to the elements will result in rusting or a malfunctioning burner. Store the fire pit in a dry, sheltered area. Invest in a fire pit cover to protect from harsh weather. A quality cover will also reduce the required cleaning time. Ensure that the tanks are stored at least 10 feet from your house. The propane tank should be stored vertically to ensure the valve stays protected from damage and prevent gas leaks. Keep the area where the tanks are stored well ventilated.

Our verdict

We hope our six best propane fire pit reviews have given you some insight into the different choices available. If you’re still on the fence about which unit to choose, let’s summarize what we liked about our top three. Our editor’s choice, the Bali OUTDOORS Gas Fire Pit Table, rated 9.8, is impressive because it’s lightweight enough to carry around and easily fits into the smallest entertainment area. It’s not only sturdy and durable but also great value for money. Our premium choice, the U-MAX 44” Outdoor Propane Gas Fire Pit Table, with its rating of 9.6, offers an auto-ignition feature and a tempered glass barrier between the user and the flame.

We elected the Sunnydaze Square Fire Ring as our best value option, and with its rating of 9.5, it offers users the chance to customize their fire pit. Build your fire pit around the ring to your exact needs. Using the information in our product review and buyers guide will provide you with adequate data to make an informed decision. Choosing the best propane fire pit for your outdoor area should be a whole lot simpler now!

9,8
Total Score
BALI OUTDOORS Gas Fire Pit Table - Editor’s Choice
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