There’s a specific magic that happens on a cool evening when friends and family gather in the backyard. The conversation flows, the stars begin to appear, and the only thing missing is a central point of warmth and light. For years, my own patio felt incomplete. We’d huddle in blankets, the party winding down as the chill set in. I craved a centerpiece that could not only ward off the cold but also serve as a social hub—a place for storytelling, marshmallow roasting, and maybe even a bit of rustic cooking. The search for the perfect fire pit is about more than buying a metal basin; it’s about investing in an experience, creating a destination in your own yard that pulls people together and makes memories that last long after the embers have faded.
- [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...
- [Beautiful & Humanized Design]OutVue fire pit table comes with 2 height-adjustable and 360° swivel grills which disassemble freely. You can barbecue, keep food warm or put pan to cook on them. The...
- [Durable& Safe] OutVue outdoor fire pit hold up to 20 lb wood, offer roaring fire and enough warmth. Firepit has 4 legs and enough weight can improve stability on uneven ground. Wood fire pits for...
What to Consider Before Buying a Wood-Burning Fire Pit
A fire pit is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for transforming an underused outdoor area into a vibrant, multi-season living space. It provides warmth on brisk nights, a mesmerizing focal point for social gatherings, and with the right features, a functional outdoor kitchen. The benefits extend beyond simple comfort; a fire pit can elevate your home’s ambiance, encourage more time spent outdoors, and become the cornerstone of family traditions, from summer s’mores to cozy autumn evenings.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone who loves to entertain, enjoys the rustic charm of a real wood fire, and values versatility in their outdoor furniture. If you have a patio, backyard, or designated outdoor space and want a single unit that can handle ambiance, warmth, and cooking, a multi-functional fire pit is an excellent fit. However, it might not be suitable for those with very small, enclosed patios where smoke could be an issue, or for individuals who prefer the convenience and smokeless operation of a propane or natural gas unit. For those seeking a more portable or smoke-free experience, a smaller, contained smokeless fire pit might be a better alternative.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: A 36-inch fire pit is substantial. You must ensure you have adequate clearance from any structures, trees, or flammable materials—typically at least 10-15 feet. Consider not just the footprint of the pit itself, but also the space needed for chairs and comfortable movement around it.
- Capacity/Performance: Look at the fire bowl’s depth and diameter. This determines how much wood you can burn and the size of the fire you can maintain. Features like built-in vents, mesh sides, or a raised wood grate are critical for promoting airflow, which leads to a stronger, more consistent fire with less smoke.
- Materials & Durability: This is arguably the most critical factor. Fire pits are commonly made from thin sheet steel, thicker gauge steel, or heavy-duty cast iron. While powder-coated sheet steel is economical, it’s more susceptible to dents and rust. Cast iron is incredibly durable and retains heat well but is much heavier and more expensive. Pay close attention to the quality of welds and the thickness of the material.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: Consider the assembly process—are the instructions clear and the parts well-organized? For long-term care, think about how you will clean out the ash and protect the unit from the elements. A unit that includes a weather-resistant cover, a poker for managing logs, and a spark screen for safety offers significant added value.
Keeping these factors in mind, the OutVue 36 Inch Fire Pit with 2 Grills stands out in several areas, particularly its multi-functionality. You can explore its detailed specifications here.
While the OutVue 36 Inch Fire Pit with 2 Grills is an excellent choice for many, 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: Unboxing a Promise of Versatility
Upon arrival, the box for the OutVue 36 Inch Fire Pit with 2 Grills is substantial, hinting at the large-scale centerpiece within. Unpacking it revealed a multitude of parts, which, as some users have noted, can seem overwhelming at first glance. However, we found the parts to be well-packaged and the instructions straightforward, making the assembly process more of a methodical project than a frustrating puzzle. In about 25 minutes, with a bit of patience, it was fully assembled.
Our initial impression of the material aligns with many user experiences: this is powder-coated sheet steel, not heavy cast iron. It feels lighter than premium models, which is a clear trade-off for its accessible price point. The classic black finish and the star-shaped cutouts give it a charming, rustic aesthetic that looks fantastic even when unlit. The two cooking grills felt surprisingly robust, and the swivel mechanism was smooth. While we did notice a few minor scuffs on the finish from transit—a common risk with items of this nature—there were no major dents or broken welds on our unit, an issue we were specifically looking out for based on a minority of user reports.
What We Like
- Versatile 3-in-1 Design: Seamlessly transitions between a fire pit, a dual-grill BBQ, and a full 36-inch patio table.
- Generous Size: The 36-inch diameter provides ample space for a large, satisfying fire and social gatherings.
- Excellent Airflow: Star-shaped cutouts and a drilled base promote strong, consistent fires.
- Dual Adjustable Grills: Two height-adjustable, 360° swivel grills offer incredible cooking flexibility over an open fire.
What We Didn’t Like
- Material Quality Concerns: The use of thinner sheet steel means it’s susceptible to dents and may not have the longevity of cast iron.
- Inconsistent Quality Control: User reports and our own inspection suggest a risk of receiving units with cosmetic damage, rust spots, or broken welds.
A Deep Dive into the OutVue Fire Pit’s Performance
A fire pit’s true worth is only revealed through use—through blazing fires, shared meals, and exposure to the elements. We put the OutVue 36 Inch Fire Pit with 2 Grills through its paces over several weeks, evaluating everything from the initial setup and build quality to its performance as both a source of ambiance and a functional outdoor cooking station. The results were a fascinating mix of impressive functionality and notable compromises.
Assembly and Build Quality: A Game of Chance
The assembly process for the OutVue 36 Inch Fire Pit with 2 Grills is a tale of two experiences. On one hand, the design is fundamentally straightforward. The instructions are clear, and all the necessary hardware is included and logically organized. We had it built and ready in under half an hour. This positive experience is echoed by users who call the assembly a “breeze.” However, this is where the quality control lottery begins. We’ve seen numerous reports of units arriving with significant issues straight out of the box: broken welds on the grill holders, dented lids, and split seams on the main basin. Our test unit arrived with only minor cosmetic blemishes, but the prevalence of these more serious complaints cannot be ignored.
The core of the issue lies in the material choice. This fire pit is constructed from relatively thin sheet steel with a high-temperature powder coating. This is what keeps the unit lightweight (at just 32.5 pounds) and affordable. The downside is a lack of rigidity compared to heavier, more expensive cast iron models. You absolutely get what you pay for in this regard. The welds, in particular, seem to be a point of failure for some. While ours held firm during testing, we can see how a hard knock during shipping could easily compromise them. Our advice to potential buyers is to inspect every single part thoroughly upon unboxing before you even begin assembly. If you encounter an issue, be prepared to engage with customer service for a resolution. For minor dents, a rubber mallet can often work wonders, and a can of high-temperature grill paint is a wise investment for touching up any chips or scrapes to stave off rust.
Performance as a Fire Pit: The Star of the Show
Once assembled and positioned, this is where the OutVue 36 Inch Fire Pit with 2 Grills truly begins to shine. Its primary function is to hold a fire, and it does so fabulously. The 36-inch diameter bowl is cavernous, easily accommodating several standard-sized logs and holding its specified 20 lb wood capacity with room to spare. This large size is perfect for creating a substantial, long-lasting fire that can serve as the centerpiece for a larger gathering of 6-8 people.
The performance is significantly enhanced by its thoughtful airflow design. The decorative star cut-outs around the side aren’t just for looks; they, along with the drilled base, draw in a steady supply of oxygen to the base of the fire. This results in a fire that is easy to start, burns brightly, and requires less frequent tending. We experienced a strong, consistent burn with minimal fuss. The ambiance created by the flames flickering behind the star pattern is genuinely delightful, casting beautiful dancing shadows around the patio. The wide, 360-degree rim that surrounds the fire bowl is another excellent practical feature. While it can get warm, it generally remains cool enough to serve as a convenient spot to rest your feet or place a drink (with caution), adding to the unit’s functionality as a social hub.
The Grilling Experience: Unmatched Versatility with a Caveat
The inclusion of two fully independent cooking grills is the killer feature that sets this fire pit apart from many competitors. This isn’t just a single, fixed grate; it’s a dynamic outdoor cooking system. Both grills can swivel a full 360 degrees and are height-adjustable, allowing you to move food into and out of the direct heat with incredible ease. This is a game-changer for open-fire cooking. You can have burgers searing on one grill directly over the flames while keeping vegetables warm on the other, swung off to the side. The ability to detach them completely is also a huge bonus for cleaning and for times when you just want a simple, unobstructed bonfire.
We successfully cooked everything from burgers and hot dogs to a pot of chili over the embers. The system works. However, there are limitations. Some users noted, and we agree, that even at their lowest setting, the grills sit fairly high above the fire bowl. This is great for preventing scorching and for slower cooking methods like simmering a stew, but it can make achieving a hard, fast sear on a steak a bit challenging unless you build a very large fire. Furthermore, the grates themselves are made of a lighter-gauge metal. They are perfectly adequate for standard use but feel less substantial than heavy-duty cast iron grates, so we wouldn’t recommend placing extremely heavy cookware on them. Despite these minor drawbacks, the sheer flexibility offered by this dual-grill system makes the OutVue 36 Inch Fire Pit with 2 Grills an incredibly compelling option for aspiring campfire chefs.
What Other Users Are Saying
Sentiment surrounding the OutVue 36 Inch Fire Pit with 2 Grills is sharply divided, painting a clear picture of a product with great potential but significant quality control hurdles. On the positive side, many users are thrilled with their purchase. One reviewer stated, “I am stoked!… The fire pit is a good gauge steel that should last for years of great fires and gatherings.” Others praise its functionality, noting, “So big inside. Holds a lot of fire wood. Air around the sides help keep the fire burning nicely.” The unique cooking features are also a major highlight, with one happy customer reporting it “Held a fire fabulously. Cooked our burgers perfectly.”
Conversely, a substantial number of reviews report a frustrating out-of-box experience. The most common complaints center on damage during shipping and poor manufacturing quality. “Very poor quality!” one user exclaimed, “One of the welded grill holders came broken and lid had dents all over it.” Another echoed this, saying, “This thing is thin sheet metal. It had spots of paint missing, welds were broken, dents were in it right out of the box.” These comments highlight the risk involved; while you might get a perfect unit that offers incredible value, there is a tangible chance of receiving a damaged product that requires either repair or return.
How Does the OutVue Fire Pit Compare to the Alternatives?
The market for outdoor heating is diverse, and while the OutVue offers an all-in-one solution, other products focus on specific aspects of the fire pit experience. Here’s how it stacks up against some popular alternatives.
1. Solo Stove Bonfire Stand
- WITHSTANDS HIGH HEAT - Safely use your smokeless fire pit on heat-sensitive surfaces like decks, grass, and turf with the durable Solo Stove Stand. This stand protects your outdoor spaces, ensuring...
- BUILT TO LAST - Crafted from cooking-grade 304 stainless steel, this fire pit stand offers long-lasting durability and a sleek, modern look. Its robust construction resists corrosion and wear, making...
- SAFETY ON THE GO - The Solo Stove Stand enhances the portability of your fire pit, allowing you to set up your outdoor fireplace on various surfaces with ease. Take your fire pit on camping trips or...
This is not a fire pit, but an essential accessory for a very different kind of fire pit experience. The Solo Stove Bonfire Stand is designed specifically for the brand’s smokeless fire pits. Its purpose is singular: to elevate the fire pit, allowing airflow underneath and protecting heat-sensitive surfaces like wood decks or lawns from getting scorched. Someone would choose this over the OutVue if they have already invested in the premium, smokeless Solo Stove ecosystem and prioritize safety and portability on various surfaces over the cooking and table functions that the OutVue provides.
2. Solo Stove Bonfire Heat Deflector
- ENHANCED WARMTH - Stay warm every season with this outdoor fire pit. Its angled deflection design captures and redirects warmth where you need it and expands the heat radius. Make every moment by the...
- LASTS FOR YEARS - Constructed from high-quality 304 stainless steel, the Solo Stove Heat Deflector is built to withstand the elements and provide a lifetime of reliable use. This robust material...
- ADAPTABLE USE - Ideal for various outdoor settings, the Solo Stove Heat Deflector enhances your fire pit experience whether you're camping, hosting a backyard gathering, or enjoying a quiet evening on...
Like the stand, the Heat Deflector is another accessory for the Solo Stove, not a standalone fire pit. Its job is to capture the rising heat from the smokeless fire and radiate it outwards, significantly increasing the “warmth radius” for those sitting around it. This is a product for the user who prioritizes warmth and comfort above all else. While the OutVue provides good ambient heat, the Solo Stove with a Heat Deflector is engineered for maximum warmth efficiency. It’s the choice for someone who finds traditional fire pits lose too much heat straight up into the sky and wants to create a truly cozy bubble of warmth.
3. EcoNook 36 inch Square Outdoor Fire Pit
- 3-in-1 Fire Pit: EcoNook 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...
- Deeper & Bigger Fire Bowl : Equipped with a fire bowl which depth is 4.6'' and width is 24'', EcoNook outdoor fireplace can hold more wood and burn longer for lasting comfort. The firepit bowl is...
- Durable & Beautiful: EcoNook fire pit table frames are built with thicker iron. Each leg is reinforced with triangular metal plates on the top and bottom for maximum strength. This outdoor fire pit is...
This is the most direct competitor to the OutVue. The EcoNook offers a nearly identical feature set: a large 36-inch footprint, a 3-in-1 design (fire pit, grill, table), and included accessories like a poker and spark screen. The primary difference is its square shape versus the OutVue’s round design. The choice between these two will largely come down to aesthetic preference and current pricing. A buyer might opt for the EcoNook if they prefer a more modern, angular look for their patio, or if it happens to be on sale. Functionally, it serves the same purpose as a versatile, budget-friendly backyard centerpiece.
Final Verdict: A Feature-Packed Fire Pit for the Right Price, If You’re Lucky
The OutVue 36 Inch Fire Pit with 2 Grills is a product of ambitious design and budget-conscious execution. Its 3-in-1 versatility is genuinely impressive; functioning as a large, atmospheric fire pit, a highly flexible dual-grill cooking station, and a handsome patio table, it offers a feature set often found in much more expensive models. The excellent airflow design ensures satisfying fires, and the adjustable swivel grills provide a fantastic campfire cooking experience.
However, this versatility comes with a significant caveat: inconsistent quality control and the use of lighter-gauge sheet steel. While many users receive a perfectly functional unit and are delighted with the value, a notable number face issues with dents, broken welds, and blemishes right out of the box. We recommend this fire pit to the savvy buyer who prioritizes multi-functionality over bomb-proof construction and is willing to accept the risk of minor imperfections for a great price. If you’re handy and don’t mind the possibility of a little touch-up work, this fire pit could be the undisputed star of your backyard. It is not for the person who demands perfection and heavy-duty, cast-iron longevity from the start.
If you’ve decided the OutVue 36 Inch Fire Pit with 2 Grills is the right fit for your outdoor gatherings and cooking adventures, you can check its current price and purchase it here.
Last update on 2025-10-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API