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Ready to find the best fire pit for home or camping? We bought 9 top models and subjected them to months of testing, utilizing years of experience to help find the right fire pit for you. We tested both wood and propane options and designed testing protocols that mixed lab tests with real-world use. We measured heat output, smoke management, and carried each pit to score portability.
A night by the fire isn't complete without your favorite camping chair. We also recommend checking out the best axes and folding saws for when you need to procure wood. Whether you're a seasoned camper needing a capable fire pit or looking for your next backyard staple, we've got you covered.
Editor's Note: Our fire pit review was updated on March 25, 2024, to offer buying advice and provide more details on our testing process.
The Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0 offers a clean and consistent burn, all while keeping the smoke away. The double-walled stainless steel construction means this pit provides a more robust platform than its aluminum counterparts and can withstand the elements longer. This pit also comes in at a lightweight platform of 23 lbs, meaning portability and transportation is a breeze. While not the hottest pit tested out of the group, the Solo Stove outputs respectable heat output for its size. It produces clean and efficient flames, meaning less mess and a longer burn time. We also have tested the Original Solo Stove. The 2 is an improvement, but not so much that we would replace an Original Solo stove until it reaches the end of its lifespan. The addition of a removable ash pan is the biggest difference between the two.
The Bonfire lacks strong radiant heat output. You can increase warmth with Solo Stove's heat deflector (sold separately). While the price of Solo Stove is in line with competitors, sometimes the stand is sold separately and is excessively expensive. We started without the stand, but it then burned a hole in our deck. Solo Stove customer service was sympathetic and sent us a stand for free. Since this is a necessary part of the setup, we've linked to the model with the stand included in this review. Overall, the Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0 is hard to beat regarding function and value, making it a fantastic pick for those who want an all-around, well-designed fire pit.
The dual burn of the Solo Stove (down and right) not only reduces smoke, it creates a lot more flame than the other two traditional fire pits.
The East Oak Smokeless possesses an impressively hot heat output. During testing, we found this pit exceeded all others in temperature ratings and heat dispersion from several feet away. Its heat output characteristics make it an excellent choice for larger groups and gatherings. The minimal smoke output also makes this pit more desirable for group gatherings where avoiding smoke is important. Ease of cleaning was simple on the East Oak; lifting the base plate and accessing the ash pan is all there is to it. We tested the 21-inch model. It also comes in 17 and 29-inch sizes.
One downside to such hot heat dispersion is the quick burn time. During testing, we found the East Oak Smokeless to burn out in under 40 minutes with 3 logs. Additionally, smoke can become dense during extinguishing but is a nonissue during burning. That said, this pit offers an excellent heat output ideal for families and groups needing extra warmth while avoiding the smoke of traditional fire pits. The East Oak includes a stand. So, when comparing the price of the East Oak and the Solo Stove Bonefire 2.0 with the stand, the East Oak is a much better value. If you don't care about smoke management and are on a tighter budget, the Amazon Basics Steel Lattice gets the job done for far less money.
With more campgrounds banning wood fires for more of the year, the Outland Living Mega is an increasingly compelling option. The use of propane makes this fire pit a versatile choice whether you find yourself in the backyard or at the campsite. The Outland Living Mega produces no smoke and boasts a 58,000 BTU rating, giving off a solid amount of heat relative to its size. While this pit's heat output is not as hot as its wood counterparts, having an adjustable flame dial, minimal clean-up, and a fire pit free of fire restrictions is a great tradeoff. Additionally, this pit was surprisingly portable relative to its steel construction and design shape. During testing, we found the Outland Living Mega easy to transport and carry after use.
Some users may find the lack of an electric igniter a problem (although electric igniters tend to fail over time, anyway). Additionally, this fire pit will go through a 20-gallon propane tank in about six to seven hours with continuous burn. Lastly, this pit may not provide as strong of heat output as desired in colder conditions, making it less appealing to those who are seeking maximum heat output. Overall, the Outland Living Mega is still a great choice for those seeking a propane fire pit with a versatile, no-frills design. It is also a solid value, especially considering you don't have to buy firewood, which can cost a lot at many supermarkets and campgrounds. Outland sells smaller versions of this fire pit that we have also tested. This larger size is the best for most people in most applications and is only nominally more expensive than smaller models.
An easy ignition process and adjustable flame dial makes this fire pit great for a variety of conditions.
If you're seeking ambiance and comfort for your tabletop, the Roundfire Concrete Tabletop is a fantastic option. This tabletop pit is simple to use and easy to clean. Using bioethanol fuel means no smell, smoke, or toxins and leaves virtually no cleanup. Additionally, using alcohol-based fuel means this pit can be used indoors safely. While you may not opt for a tabletop pit for warmth, the Roundfire still generates a substantial flame for its size, meaning heat output can still be felt from close distances.
One downside to the Roundfire Tabletop is that certain fuels, such as isopropyl alcohol, burn rather quickly, meaning refilling is necessary to keep it burning. This was a nonissue with bioethanol, where burn time at full capacity was over an hour. The design of the Roundfire also means the flame is produced above the rim of the pit, making it susceptible to nearby flammable items if not positioned in a proper area. While there are minor drawbacks to any tabletop pit, the Roundfire is an excellent product that provides ambiance and comfort at a solid price point.
The Roundfire is easy to ignite and even easier to extinguish.
While we have only tested a few larger propane fire pits for home, so far, the Outland Living Granville stands out. We tested this model for over two years at a vacation rental with 800 guests over the test period. The Granville held up remarkably well. The previous model the Granville replaced, the Hearth Fire Pit Table, showed many more chips and dings and had to be replaced in less than two years. In addition, the Granville is at a great height, better for drinks and food placement, and allows you to store the propane tank under the table. The lower-height models usually have a long hose that is difficult to conceal and requires a second location for the propane tank.
Like all propane fire pits we have tested, the Piezo igniter is not as durable or consistent as we would like. It also doesn't crank out the heat. The flames provide some warmth, but they are more for ambiance than overcoming freezing temperatures. The pricing is also very confusing on this model. The manufacturer lists a high price but always has nearly 50% off. The different colors can also vary wildly in price at different retailers. Those gripes aside, we love the look, durability, and size of this model and find it is the best model for homes that we have tested to date.
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Testing the Solo Stove in crisp conditions.
Credit: Kenji Mowrey
How We Test Fire Pits
We took fire pits from various categories and put them to the limits over months of testing. From the beach to the mountains to backyard gatherings, we tested fire pits in many conditions to find where each pit excels. Emphasis included heat output, dividing heat into overall temperature, and heat dispersion outwards. Along with the heat, we analyzed smoke management and how well each pit did with smoke during ignition, burn, and extinguishment. We did independent testing to verify weight and dimensions, as well as measuring the volume of each pit using liquid measurements. Learn more about how we test fire pits.
Our testing used five different metrics:
Heat Output (35% of overall score weighting)
Smoke Management (30% weighting)
Portability (20% weighting)
Ease of Cleaning (10% weighting)
Ease of Assembly (5% weighting)
Why You Should Trust Us
The person in charge of this review is Kenji Mowrey from South Lake Tahoe, CA. Kenji is an advocate of all things outdoor-related and specializes in outdoor gear design, for which he is currently finishing up his studies. Growing up in a family of outdoor sales reps, he spent his earliest days at retailer shows and grew up in the world of all things gear-related.
How to Choose the Best Fire Pit
Below are four factors to consider when finding the ideal fire pit for your next fire.
How Much Heat Do You Need?
Fire pits can vary greatly in heat output with factors such as size and fuel type. Some pits will offer excellent heat dispersion and hot temperatures but may burn out quickly. Other pits may burn slower and cooler but provide a longer fire and a cleaner burn. Additionally, fuel types such as propane will not reach the same heat level as a wood-burning pit. For folks who regularly accommodate groups or families, a larger burning pit will be ideal to keep everyone warm. On the other hand, someone who uses their fire pit camping in smaller settings will prefer a compact pit with easier cleanup and convenience.
Infrared thermometers are a great tool for analyzing heat output and temperature.
Credit: Kenji Mowrey
Looking to Avoid the Smoke?
With the advancements in smoke management, many fire pits are now offered as smokeless pits. While some smoke will still accumulate during ignition and extinguishment, smokeless fire pits do a great job of getting rid of the smoke. This can help avoid the smell of smoke on clothes, produce a more efficient burn, and make it easier to clean up due to less ash production. If you're on the fence about going smokeless, a key consideration is the increased price associated with these pits. If you plan on utilizing your fire pit often, then a smokeless fire pit can be worth the investment.
What Fuel Type is Best?
Wood-burning fire pits can be great for get-togethers and gathering around the fire. On the other hand, propane pits will offer more convenience and allow certain fire restrictions to be avoided during the summer months. A wood-burning pit will also require more cleanup than its propane counterparts. If you don't mind maintaining and cleaning up after your fire, then a wood fire pit will offer more heat, but a propane fire pit can be a great option as a backyard staple or portable option while on the go. Ultimately, deciding between fuel types will depend on where you use your fire pit and how often you plan on using it.
How Much Cleaning is Required?
With the use of wood, ash will accumulate and require regular cleanup after use. If you plan on buying a wood-burning fire pit, a key consideration is properly disposing of ash after each use. This will add additional time to your night and should be accounted for. One of the best features of a propane pit is how easy they are to clean. With no leftover residue or ash, propane pits make cleanup effortless.
Fire pits such as the Solo Stove 2.0 offer a removable ashtray to make cleanup a bit easier.
Credit: Kenji Mowrey
Analysis and Test Results
We tested each fire pit side by side to produce the most comprehensive and accurate results possible. To find our overall score for each fire pit, five metrics are weighted based on importance and relevance. Our testers value heat output as the highest-rated metric due to the simple fact a fire pit's main purpose is to provide warmth and comfort. We also value smoke management highly since a fire pit with smoke issues can ruin a get-together and leave users with unpleasant smoke smells. We make sure to break down each metric to help make your decision simplified and straightforward.
Value
The wide range of fire pits on the market come in many different styles and intended functions. This means finding a fire pit that fits the bill is subjective on the features most important to you. While some fire pits may be great for larger groups where heat is paramount, another person may find they need a pit that can avoid seasonal fire restrictions where they live. Ultimately, price is a determining buying factor, so finding the balance between price and performance is essential.
The East Oak is the best deal in the higher-end smokeless fire pit category. It's not cheap, but it comes with a built-in stand and scored very high. Our testers also admired the Outland Living Mega for its value relative to cost. It provides a simple but durable construction that is hard to beat. Also worth mentioning is the Roundfire Concrete Tabletop. This tabletop accessory proved to be a versatile, easy-to-use portable pit, equally impressive as its price. If you don't care about smoke management, the Amazon Basics Steel Lattice works fine at a low price.
A budget-friendly tabletop pit, the Roundfire is a great fuel alternative to wood and propane counterparts.
Credit: Kenji Mowrey
Heat Output
A fire pit that provides adequate heat is essential to warmth and overall enjoyment around the fire. We have valued heat output as the heaviest weighted metric due to its importance and the fundamental value it has to a good fire pit experience. While certain fire pits, such as gas-fed pits, are more easily measured by BTU rating, wood-fed pits require more insight to gather heat output measurements.
The Solo Stove (down and right) produces much more heat output and less smoke than the standard single-burn fire pits like the Amazon Basics Steel Lattice (left).
Credit: Chris McNamara
To assess heat output, we used a combination of infrared heat thermometers in various locations around the pit and more subjective measures. This included measuring heat from two, four, and six feet away with input from multiple individuals.
Measuring distances from two, four, and six feet to gauge heat distribution.
Credit: Kenji Mowrey
The East Oak Smokeless came away with the win in this category. It boasted an impressive rating through our infrared reading, hitting temperatures upwards of 1,100℉. It also provided a more even distribution around the pit than comparable smokeless models. Even six feet away, heat was still being displaced and felt by our testers. The Cuisinart Cleanburn also wowed testers during heat testing. Our infrared readings were consistently over 1,000℉. While its heat distribution characteristics favored upwards over outwards, it still was plenty hot when close by.
Infrared temperature reading to find heat output.
Credit: Kenji Mowrey
Further testing was done by conducting a side-by-side analysis. Each pit was loaded with equal parts wood and starter, then ignited simultaneously. Using a timer, each pit was timed on how long its burn lasted as well as the length of time to ignite and the length of burn before smoldering.
With a burn time of over one hour on just three logs, the Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0 provided a long-lasting burn that was as equally impressive as its minimal ignition start-up time. Another star in our time tests was the Roundfire Concrete Tabletop Pit. Using its ethanol-based fuel source at full capacity, it burned for an hour and ten minutes uninterrupted.
The Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0 has a long burn time without sacrificing the heat.
Credit: Kenji Mowrey
Smoke Management
Keeping away the smoke while around the fire is another vital aspect of the overall enjoyment of your fire pit experience, hence our heavily weighted metric towards smoke management. Not only does a fire pit that keeps smoke at bay help with air quality, but it also helps avoid the smell and undesirable aromas associated with fires that cling to clothing afterward.
To measure smoke management, we used a more subjective protocol that measures smoke through visual signs. This entailed looking at smoke levels throughout the various stages, such as ignition, burning, and extinguishing. We also evaluated each pit's ventilation and airflow characteristics to see how each system utilized air intake.
Propane fed fires are a great way to avoid the smell and hassle of smoke.
Credit: Kenji Mowrey
Controlled variables such as wood type, amount of wood, and weather conditions were all done together to ensure accuracy. Using side-by-side testing, it became apparent which models were emitting smoke more than others. We were highly impressed once again with the Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0's ability to keep smoke away at all stages of burn. Its airflow design was on display, especially in the latter stage of burning, where other pits emitted high levels of smoke during smoldering. With pits that do not utilize an oxygen-fed airflow system, such as the Yaheetech multifunctional table, smoke can become a major factor during use. A big plus to a propane-fed fire pit is the absence of smoke; we greatly appreciated the Outland Living Mega because it emits no smoke.
A side-by-side smoke test amplifies how big of a difference a fire pit with ventilation makes.
Credit: Kenji Mowrey
Portability
Owning a fire pit with the ability to transport and move for different occasions easily is an essential part of the buying process. We know portability is subjective based on the type of pit and its intended use. Some users may need a pit that can fit in their car for camping adventures and extended traveling; others may find themselves using a semi-permanent location in the backyard for family gatherings. Whatever the need, we made sure to test in a variety of circumstances to identify standouts in the world of portability.
To evaluate portability, we weighed and compared to manufacturer-listed specifications and took measurements to find dimensions. Additionally, we assessed whether they fit comfortably in common vehicles and how compactly they break down when not in use. We even filled each pit with water to find their inner volume capacity in Liters.
Ultra portability is a key standout on the the Solo Stove Mesa.
Credit: Kenji Mowrey
The Solostove Mesa Tabletop is a standout in our portability rankings. While it is meant to be a small tabletop accessory, we found its ability to pack down impressive. The included stand collapses and fits inside the pit to accompany the carrying bag.
A coffee mug next to the Solo Stove Mesa showcases the compactness of this tabletop pit.
Credit: Kenji Mowrey
For more traditional-sized pits, we found the East Oak Smokeless seamless due to its lightweight 17 lb stainless steel construction. Testers had no problem carrying this pit from place to place and transitioning from car trunk to campsite. We were also impressed with the inner volume of the pit. Utilizing most of its space, the East Oak boasts a volume of 39.7 liters.
The ability to fit a fire pit in the car with a cylindrical shape maximizes space and volume.
Credit: Kenji Mowrey
Ease Of Cleaning
A key aspect of a quality fire pit is its ability to be cleaned and maintained to ensure longevity. Factors that influence ease of cleaning include the time it takes to clean, the level of difficulty removing ash and soot, and if any specialized tools are required.
Once again, the Outland Living Mega is worth mentioning since virtually no cleanup is required. One major benefit of a propane fire pit is that it's easy to keep clean. The only maintenance required is cleaning the lava rocks from the pit when necessary. We also found the Roundfire Concrete Tabletop extremely easy to clean. The Use of bioethanol fuel means it burns clean and leaves no mess. All that's required is cleaning the fuel cup to remove the alcohol scent.
The removable cup makes clean-up no problem.
Credit: Kenji Mowrey
For wood-burning pits, we found the Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0 and the East Oak Smokeless straightforward to clean. Both utilize an ash pan system at the bottom of the pit, making ash disposal very easy.
East Oak's ash pan design is easy and quick to clean.
Credit: Kenji Mowrey
Ease Of Assembly
Buying a fire pit and assembling it can become confusing and sometimes trickier than imagined. We narrowed down each pit's overall assembly from box to finished product. While some fire pits are as easy as taking them out of the box and being ready to go, some pits take more time and effort to reach a finished product. Using metrics such as length of time for assembly and assessing the level of tools needed, we narrowed down some of the easiest and hardest pits to assemble.
One pit that stands out is the Cuisinart Clean Burn; this pit was the most simple out of all pits tested because it's ready right out of the box. The only assembly needed is latching the assembly stand to the pit, and it's ready to go. On the other end of the assembly side, the Yaheetech Multifunctional Table was less desirable to set up. This pit requires using Allen screws to connect the side panels and legs, which took our testers almost 40 minutes to assemble. Part of the lengthy setup time was due to the screw quality and tricky threads.
The Cuisinart Clean Burn is straightforward to set up, latch the pit to the stand and you're ready to burn.
Credit: Kenji Mowrey
Conclusion
Finding the perfect fire pit is no easy task. Deciding on the size, material, features, and fuel type may lead to confusion rather than reassurance. After extensive research, months of testing, and many logs burned, our experts have found top choices in various categories to narrow down what's best for your next gathering around the fire.
A warm fire and no smoke is a great way to enjoy the sunset.
