Fire Pits in 2021: 5 Reviews of Propane & Wood Burning Options

Everyone loves to sit around a fire. Having a fire pit on your patio or deck can help to create wonderful memories with friends and family.

Providing a versatile outdoor backyard experience, a fire is a great addition to your patio seating area that provides the means for making s’mores or staying warm on a cold evening. You can even create a camping atmosphere in your backyard or take it with you on your next bonafide camping trip. Let’s help you find the best fire pit for your backyard today.

Top Propane and Wood-Burning Fire Pits of 2021

Let’s dive right into our top choices:

Best Wood-Burning Fire Pit: Solo Stove Bonfire

Made with stainless steel, this wood burning fire pit comes with a stand and carrying case. Measuring 19 ½ inches, the Solo Stove Bonfire is portable and does not require any set up prior to use. This is a smokeless fire pit that only produces fine ash, thanks to its patented design.

Easy to clean, this fire pit only burns wood logs, which is where it gets its power. It also creates a secondary burn featuring a beautiful flame that your friends and family will enjoy on a chilly evening. Made with durable and extra-sturdy materials, all you need to do is flip over the flame ring and the fire pit is ready to go to work.

Weighing in at only 20 pounds, this built-to-last fire pit is not only functional but also an attractive addition to your patio or backyard. It features vents on the bottom that allow for good airflow and a stand that keeps heat-sensitive surfaces protected. The double-wall design helps to maximize airflow during the burning process in order to produce less smoke and more flame.

With a singular and portable construction, the Solo Stove Bonfire does not require parts or assembly. All you need to do is place it on the stand and then start your fire. Providing a complete and efficient burn, you also won’t have to deal with half-burned logs when your fire is done.

Best Gas Fire Pit: Tacklife Propane Fire Pit Table

Offering 50,000 BTUs, the Tacklife Propane Fire Pit Table features an auto-ignition and is CSA Certified. This gas fire pit table measures 28-inches and uses propane fuel to provide stable burning while eliminating smog and ash. This easy-to-move fire pit gives you tons of warmth while also creating a romantic and warm bonfire experience.

When the fire pit is not in use, the included lid can be used to convert the unit into a table for additional functionality. Plus, it can also add a fashionable appearance to any balcony, terrace, courtyard, or garden. The tabletop is treated with rust-proof black paint and includes antique copper art finishes while the bottom steel panel has a wicker appearance providing an elegant look.

The Tacklife Propane Fire Pit Table is made with sturdy steel to stop damage or cracking of the surface. The included ignition device allows you to easily adjust the flame with simple switch control. The control panel and burner are made with stainless steel to provide a longer working life for these fire pits.

Bonnlo Outdoor Fire Pit

Featuring a stylish and unique design, the Bonnlo Outdoor Fire Pit measures 32-inches and provides a relaxing feel to any backyard, deck, or patio. Perfect for a group of four to eight people, this fire pit allows you to relax with your friends and family on chilly evenings. You can use logs, wood, or charcoal with this fire pit to create a cozy atmosphere at the beach or camping.

Featuring sturdy steel construction, the Bonnlo Fire Pit is equipped with a high-temperature heat-resistant finish that includes a spare tabletop for your drinks. The included fire screen ensures that sparks are kept under control, but you still get an open view of the fire. The log rest is built-in allowing for air circulation and flow while the included fire poker allows you to move the screen protector and logs easily.

The Bonnlo Fire Pit features a deep-square fire bowl with drainage holes that allow you to empty out rainwater and ashes easily. This lightweight fire pit is not only functional but also adds a beautiful look to your deck or backyard. This fire pit can also hold a good amount of wood that will stay lit as you warm up in front of the fire.

KINGSO Outdoor Fire Pit

Measuring 22-inches, the KINGSO Outdoor Fire Pit is ideal for picnics, camping, backyards, bonfires, or the beach. This fire pit comes equipped with a poker, log grate, and mesh spark screen cover for safety. With a stylish and unique design, the KINGSO Fire Pit allows you to relax next to a fire with your friends and family safely using either charcoal or wood.

The mesh lid prevents burning sparks from shooting out while the included poker lets you safely move around embers. The KINGSO Outdoor Fire Pit has a durable and sturdy steel frame that includes a black heat resistant finish. This lightweight and portable fire pit is super easy to carry with you for tailgating and RV trips.

The fast and simple assembly allows you to set up the fire pit by just attaching the outer rim and four legs. This is a fire pit for creating fun family memories hanging out in the backyard or for use while camping.

Pop-Up Fire Pit

Lightweight and portable, the Pop-Up Fire Pit only weighs seven pounds and measures 24-inches after assembly. This fire pit is resistant to rust, and there is an optional heat shield that allows you to leave no trace behind after you use the unit. This fire pit was designed to pack down small, so you can take it with you just about anywhere.

Featuring a patented design, the Pop-Up Fire Pit will keep your campfire up and off the ground preventing burn marks on sensitive surfaces. The rugged but simple design of these fire pits does not require bolts or fasteners, so you don’t have to worry about tools during set up. The patented cross-braced design allows for a weight capacity of 125 pounds and includes a low center of gravity to give the fire pit stability on elevated surfaces and windy nights.

This fire pit can use either charcoal or wood and is large enough to keep your entire group warm. The Pop-Up Fire Pit can pack down to the size of a camp chair and can be set up in just 60 seconds. Made with 6061 Aluminum, the design of this fire pit allows it to cool down in 90 seconds for fast cleanup.

Equipped with a carrying case, the Pop-Up Fire Pit can easily be taken camping or to the beach. Using a stainless-steel mesh allows your fire to get just the right airflow with almost no smoke. It also exceeds Forest Service and BLM regulations for a fire pan for added safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

What fire pit gives off the most heat?

Wood-burning fire pits will give off the most heat. They are cheaper than gas-powered fire pits, and they create a hotter fire, which provides a more authentic camping experience. Not only do you get the aesthetic appeal of the heat and flames with wood-burning fire pits, but you can also use the embers to cook food such as meat and potatoes, or to roast marshmallows.

Keep in mind that the downside of a wood-burning pit is buying the wood and storing it. Plus, you have to worry about disposing of the ash when the fire is done. Wood fire pits can also create a lot of smoke and be more difficult to start a fire in than gas alternatives. However, they do create that roaring fire that makes you feel cozy on chilly nights. A wood-burning fire pit is often agreed upon as the best choice by homeowners. For a good alternative to fire pits, you can also check out patio heaters or general-purpose outdoor heaters.

Why are fire pits so expensive?

Depending on the type of fire pit you choose, the cost can vary. Portable models are generally the most affordable, and they can range in price depending on the type of metal, durability, and features. Where the cost really starts to add up is when you have one installed permanently.

An outside fire pit that uses brick or stone can vary based on the materials, plus installation can add up depending on the number of hours it takes for installation. If you are installing a gas fire pit, costs can depend based on the placement, materials, and size of the fire pit. They are generally more expensive than wood-burning alternatives from the get-go, and installing the gas line will also run you a few bucks depending on the difficulty.

Is cast iron or steel better for a fire pit?

Each type of fire pit has its advantages. A cast iron fire pit is durable and very sturdy. Providing some of the greatest warmth of any fire pit, these are a great choice for those that live in a cold climate. Plus, they are great for cooking.

However, they are also pretty expensive and heavy, so they aren’t the best choice if you are looking for portability. They also tend to discolor if they are exposed to moisture, and since they retain a lot of heat, they can be hazardous if you touch them before they cool down.

A steel fire pit is durable, lightweight, inexpensive, and weather resistant making them a popular choice. While they aren’t as sturdy as a cast iron fire pit, they have low maintenance and look really nice in your yard.

Many homeowners find that steel fire pits tend to have a less interesting design, namely in that they have a uniform look with a bland color. Like cast iron fire pits they get pretty hot when you use them, so they can also be dangerous to touch.

When it comes to wood-burning models, both steel and cast-iron fire pits can be an attractive and durable option. The best choice for your outdoor living area depends on your needs, budget, and aesthetic preferences.

What portable fire pit is the best?

The best fire pit for portability really depends on your needs. However, you do want to look for a fire pit that is compact and easy to carry. It is especially helpful if the fire pit can fold flat for storage. If you plan to use it for cooking, choose a portable fire pit that will stay lit consistently and have a large enough bowl for wood.

Safety is another big factor, so you want to make sure it has a screen that can control the embers and sparks from flying out. And, if you plan to use it as a heat source for your group, make sure you use a wood-burning fire pit that produces a good punch of heat after the sun goes down. If you are thinking of bringing the party indoors, an ethanol fireplace or an electric fireplace would be worth looking into. As for other outdoor features, you might also want to find the best outdoor ceiling fan for your home, which will make a great addition to your living space.