There’s a certain magic to gathering around a crackling fire. It’s primal, comforting, and the perfect backdrop for conversation, quiet reflection, or the simple joy of roasting a marshmallow. For years, living in a home with a small patio, I thought this experience was out of reach. A traditional fire pit was too large, too permanent, and the thought of chasing smoke around a tiny space was anything but relaxing. I longed for the ambiance, the gentle warmth, and the fun of a campfire, but needed a solution that was compact, safe for a tabletop, and wouldn’t leave my guests and me smelling like a forest fire. The dilemma was real: how do you capture the essence of a bonfire in a space that can barely fit a bistro set?
- SMOKELESS FIRE PIT: Experience the magic of a cozy, smoke-free fire that’s perfect for any outdoor setting. From camping nights to patio gatherings, this airflow-efficient outdoor fire pit keeps...
- LASTS FOR YEARS: Crafted from durable, lightweight 304 stainless steel, this fire pit is built to last for years. Perfect as a tabletop fire pit or portable fire pit, it includes a stand for better...
- DUAL FUEL: This long-lasting tabletop fire pit dual fuel capability lets you burn wood or pellets with its built-in pellet adapter. Enjoy comforting, warm flames that stay consistent and smokeless,...
What to Consider Before Buying a Tabletop Fire Pit
A tabletop fire pit is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for transforming any small outdoor space into a cozy, inviting retreat. It solves the problem of scale, bringing the warmth and flickering light of a fire to balconies, decks, and patios where a larger unit would be impractical or unsafe. The main benefits are immediate ambiance, a focal point for social gatherings, and the simple pleasure of an open flame without a major installation or cleanup. It’s about accessibility—making the fire pit experience available to virtually anyone with an outdoor table.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing space constraints—think apartment dwellers, condo owners, or those with small urban backyards. It’s also perfect for campers who want a contained, portable fire source, or families looking for a quick and easy way to host a s’mores night. Conversely, this product might not be suitable for those who need to generate significant heat for a large group or want to burn full-sized logs. If your goal is to create a massive bonfire for a big backyard party, you’d be better served by a larger, in-ground or full-sized portable fire pit.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: A tabletop model’s primary advantage is its size. The Solo Stove Mesa XL Tabletop Fire Pit measures just 7 inches in diameter and 8.6 inches high. This is ideal for most patio tables, but you must still consider clearance. Ensure you have adequate overhead space and keep it away from flammable materials like umbrellas or tablecloth edges. Its small footprint is its greatest strength, allowing for a fire experience in previously unusable areas.
- Capacity/Performance: Don’t expect a tabletop unit to heat your entire patio. Its purpose is localized warmth and ambiance. The Mesa XL’s performance is tied to its fuel. It’s a dual-fuel model, accepting wood pellets or small pieces of hardwood. Burn time is a key factor; a small fuel load will last around 30-45 minutes, so continuous feeding is necessary for longer sessions. The heat output is significant for its size, perfect for warming hands and faces around a table.
- Materials & Durability: Look for high-quality, heat-resistant materials. The Mesa XL is constructed from 304 stainless steel, a premium material known for its excellent durability and resistance to rust and corrosion. This ensures a long lifespan even with regular exposure to high heat and outdoor elements. Cheaper models might use lower-grade steel that can warp or rust over time.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: A good tabletop fire pit should be simple to operate. The Mesa XL requires no assembly; you simply place it on its stand, add fuel, and light it. Maintenance involves letting it cool completely and then turning it upside down to dump the ash. The lack of complex parts or a removable ash pan is a trade-off for its compact, seamless design.
Keeping these factors in mind, the Solo Stove Mesa XL Tabletop Fire Pit stands out in several areas, particularly in its efficient design and quality construction. You can explore its detailed specifications here.
While the Solo Stove Mesa XL Tabletop Fire Pit is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
- [3 IN 1]: OutVue fire pit is equipped with 2 cooking grills, 1 lid and tabletop. When you fix grills and tabletop to the fire pit, you can enjoy the roast and bonfire. When it not make fire and cover...
- 3-in-1 Fire Pit: Panovue outdoor fire pit can provide inviting warmth for your patio, yard, or garden, also be used as an outdoor BBQ to cook food or as an ice bucket to keep beverages cold. When you...
- [3 IN 1]: OutVue fire pit is equipped with 2 cooking grills, 1 lid and tabletop[No waterproof cover]. When you fix grills and tabletop to the fire pit, you can enjoy the roast and bonfire. When it not...
First Impressions: A Beautifully Engineered Piece of Gear
Unboxing the Solo Stove Mesa XL Tabletop Fire Pit was an experience in itself. The product ships in its own branded box, which is something to be aware of for delivery. Inside, everything was securely packed. My first thought was how substantial yet lightweight it felt. At just 2.3 pounds, it’s incredibly easy to handle, yet the 304 stainless steel construction gives it a premium, durable feel—there are no flimsy parts or sharp edges. The matte “Water” color is a lovely, modern touch that looks great even when the pit isn’t lit.
The package includes everything you need to get started: the fire pit itself, a sturdy stand to protect your table surface, a built-in pellet adapter, and a surprisingly high-quality nylon carry bag. There is zero assembly required. You simply unfold the legs of the stand, place the fire pit on top, and it’s ready for fuel. Compared to other outdoor gear that often requires a frustrating session with an Allen wrench, this immediate gratification was a huge plus. It felt less like a piece of equipment and more like a well-designed appliance for outdoor living.
What We Like
- Remarkably effective smokeless airflow technology
- Dual-fuel capability allows for use with wood or pellets
- Extremely portable and lightweight, with carry bag included
- High-quality 304 stainless steel and durable color finish
- Generates impressive, localized heat for its compact size
Limitations
- Requires a steady supply of small fuel, as it burns quickly
- A learning curve is needed to achieve a truly smokeless burn, especially with pellets
Performance Under Fire: A Deep Dive into the Mesa XL Experience
A tabletop fire pit lives or dies by its flame, its heat, and its user experience. We put the Solo Stove Mesa XL Tabletop Fire Pit through extensive testing on cool evenings, using it for everything from providing ambiance during card games to the critical task of roasting s’mores with the family. Its performance is a fascinating blend of brilliant engineering and user technique.
The Magic of 360° Airflow: Is It Truly Smokeless?
The signature feature of any Solo Stove product is the 360° Airflow design, which promises a highly efficient, secondary burn that eliminates most smoke. In the Mesa XL, this technology is scaled down but remains impressively effective. The double-wall construction pulls air in through the bottom vents, feeding the fire at its base while also channeling hot air up between the walls to exit through the top vents. This blast of pre-heated oxygen ignites unburnt particles—smoke—before they can escape the pit.
During our tests, when we got it right, the result was nothing short of mesmerizing. We achieved a vibrant, active flame that danced well above the rim with virtually no visible smoke. It completely changes the experience of sitting around a fire; there’s no more musical chairs trying to dodge a plume of smoke. As one user aptly put it, it’s perfect for playing cards “without a lot of bothersome smoke.” However, there is a learning curve. We confirmed what several other users discovered: fuel choice and placement are critical. Overloading the pit past the upper air holes is a surefire way to generate smoke, as it stifles the secondary burn. We also found, as one user suggested, that small, dry hardwood chunks produced a much cleaner burn than pellets, which tended to smoke initially and when being refilled.
Dual Fuel Versatility: The Wood vs. Pellets Debate
The ability to use either traditional hardwood or wood pellets is a major selling point. We tested both extensively. The unit includes an integrated pellet adapter, which is a small grate at the bottom that keeps the pellets from falling through the main air holes. Starting a fire with pellets was simple; a small amount of fire starter gel and a match had them smoldering and then burning in minutes. A user reported that filling the pit one-third of the way with pellets yielded a burn time of about 20-23 minutes. Our findings were similar. While pellets provide a consistent, hot burn, we found they smoked considerably when we added a fresh scoop on top of hot embers. It seems the key is to let the new pellets fully ignite before the smokeless effect takes over.
Where the Solo Stove Mesa XL Tabletop Fire Pit truly excelled, in our opinion, was with small pieces of wood. We followed the advice of users who had great success with “little sticks and lots of them.” We gathered twigs from the yard and broke up some kiln-dried kindling into 4-6 inch pieces. This fuel source is often free and easy to find. The wood caught quickly, produced a beautiful, natural-looking flame, and, once the secondary burn kicked in, was almost entirely smokeless. The key is size. As one owner learned, trying to use wood chunks that are too large forces you to stack them above the air holes, defeating the smokeless design. For those who want the most authentic and hassle-free experience, sourcing or preparing very small pieces of dry hardwood is the way to go.
Design, Portability, and Long-Term Durability
Beyond the flame itself, the physical design of the Mesa XL is a standout feature. The 304 stainless steel is not just for show; it’s a workhorse material that can withstand extreme temperatures without degrading. After several burns, the matte finish on our “Water” model showed no signs of discoloration or peeling, a sentiment echoed by users. This indicates a high-quality coating designed for this specific application. The included stand is an essential component, not an afterthought. It elevates the scorching-hot base of the fire pit off your table, and its foldable legs make the entire package incredibly compact for storage.
Portability is where this product earns top marks. The entire unit slips neatly into the provided nylon carry bag, making it a fantastic companion for camping trips, picnics, or moving it from the back deck to the front porch. As one enthusiastic owner noted, “it slips neatly into the carrying bag it came with and loads up nicely for a quick get away.” This grab-and-go functionality makes you far more likely to use it. When it comes to cleanup, the process is basic: let it cool completely, then turn it upside down over a trash can. One user pointed out there are no drain holes, so it shouldn’t be left out in the rain. This is a valid point and speaks to the simple, but effective, design philosophy—fewer parts mean more durability and portability. The robust construction and thoughtful extras make the Solo Stove Mesa XL Tabletop Fire Pit a product built to last.
What Other Users Are Saying
The general consensus among users is overwhelmingly positive, with many calling the Solo Stove Mesa XL Tabletop Fire Pit one of their favorite outdoor purchases. A common thread is its perfect suitability for small spaces and specific activities. One happy customer declared it “our s’mores maker! The perfect size for your backyard table and our kids love it!” Another praised its surprising heat output and stability, saying it “kicks out some significant heat and was a breeze to start. It’s lightweight and sturdy so I’m not worried about it toppling over even though it’s windy outside.”
However, the feedback also provides a realistic picture of the user experience. The most common piece of constructive criticism revolves around the learning curve required to master the smokeless burn. One reviewer gave a detailed account of their journey: “It’s not great but I do like it after learning a few tricks. First: don’t use pellets. It just creates a LOT of smoke. Second: use smaller pieces of wood.” This sentiment was shared by another who, after initial frustration, “ended up switching to pellets which work a lot better for the Mesa and are actually smokeless.” This highlights that user experience can vary, and finding the right fuel and technique for your environment is part of the process.
How Does the Solo Stove Mesa XL Compare to the Alternatives?
The Solo Stove Mesa XL Tabletop Fire Pit occupies a specific niche, but it’s helpful to see how it compares to other products in the broader outdoor fire category. Its focus is on personal, portable, smokeless ambiance.
1. Party Flames Color Changing Packets 10 Pack
- DAZZLING FIRE SHOW: Whether you and your family are camping at the lake or sitting around a fire pit in your backyard, you can create a rainbow of colorful magic dancing flames with just one Party...
- SIMPLE & EASY TO USE: Each box contains 10 high-quality packets, these fire color packets are simple and safe to use. All you need to do is to throw in 1 to 2 unopened fire color packets in the...
- CAMPING GEAR MUST HAVES: Those who love to be a part of fireworks, bonfires or sitting around a campfire with family or friends, must try this cool camping stuff. Try our campfire color flame packets...
This isn’t a fire pit at all, but rather a fire accessory. These packets are designed to be tossed into an existing wood-burning fire to create vibrant, colorful flames. This product is for someone who already has a fire source and wants to add a novelty, entertainment element. It offers no heat or function beyond the visual effect. While fun for a party, it’s a supplement to a fire pit, not an alternative. If you’re seeking ambiance, warmth, and the ability to cook, the Mesa XL is the functional choice; the Party Flames are purely for spectacle.
2. Gas One 22 in Outdoor Wood Burning Fire Pit
- Fun Moments Around the Campfire: If you want to create a welcoming atmosphere in your backyard for gatherings where you can enjoy delicious marshmallows and endless conversations together with your...
- Built to Last: Our outdoor fireplace features a durable and resilient construction made with high-quality, rust-resistant alloy steel and high-temperature-resistant painting that can withstand...
- Versatile and Practical: The Gas One wood burning firepits for outside are designed with your convenience in mind, having a small but spacious design for small gatherings, parties and reunions in your...
The Gas One fire pit represents a more traditional, mid-sized option. At 22 inches in diameter, it’s significantly larger than the Mesa XL and is designed to sit on the ground, not a table. It’s a better choice for someone with a small backyard who wants a more substantial fire for warmth and can accommodate a larger group. It includes a mesh lid for spark protection, but it lacks the advanced smokeless airflow technology of the Solo Stove. This means you’ll get a bigger fire, but you’ll also contend with more smoke. It’s for those who prioritize fire size over portability and smokeless convenience.
3. TBMLC 5FT Diameter Camp Fire Ring Pit
- Durability: Galvanized steel fire rings are highly durable. The galvanized coating provides additional protection, allowing the fire ring to withstand various weather, thus extending its lifespan
- Rust Resistance: The surface of a galvanized steel fire ring is coated with a layer of zinc. This zinc layer effectively prevents direct contact between the steel and air, water, and other mediums
- Safety: Galvanized steel fire rings are typically designed to be sturdy and can safely contain and control the fire. They help prevent the spread of fire and provide a secure burning environment
This product is in a completely different class. The TBMLC Fire Ring is a 5-foot diameter steel ring designed to contain a very large, ground-level bonfire. This is not a portable or personal fire pit; it’s a semi-permanent installation for a large property, campground, or event space. It offers no base, no smokeless technology, and no portability. Someone would choose this only if their goal is to host massive bonfires safely. It stands in stark contrast to the Mesa XL, which is designed for intimate, controlled, and smoke-free fires in compact spaces.
Final Verdict: A Nearly Perfect Personal Fire Pit
After extensive hands-on testing and analyzing feedback from dozens of users, our verdict is clear: the Solo Stove Mesa XL Tabletop Fire Pit is a phenomenal product for its intended purpose. It successfully shrinks the impressive smokeless technology of its larger siblings into a compact, beautiful, and highly portable package. It excels at creating a cozy, intimate atmosphere on a small deck, patio, or at a campsite. The quality of the materials, from the 304 stainless steel body to the durable color finish, ensures this is an investment that will last for years of s’mores nights and quiet evenings.
While there is a slight learning curve to achieving the perfect smokeless burn, the process of mastering it is part of the fun. For anyone who has longed for the joy of a real wood fire but lacked the space for a traditional pit, the Mesa XL is the solution you’ve been waiting for. It’s a gateway to creating memories, sparking conversations, and enjoying the outdoors, one tiny, perfect fire at a time.
If you’ve decided the Solo Stove Mesa XL Tabletop Fire Pit is the right fit for your outdoor space, you can check its current price and purchase it here.
Last update on 2025-10-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API