There’s a certain magic that happens when people gather around a crackling fire. The sun dips below the horizon, the air gets a crisp edge, and the flickering flames cast a warm, inviting glow that encourages storytelling, laughter, and connection. For years, I’ve wanted to bring that classic campfire experience to my own backyard, a central hub for cool autumn evenings and long summer nights. The problem? The thought of a permanent, built-in stone fire pit felt like a massive commitment—both in terms of yard space and budget. I wanted the ambiance without the expensive, irreversible construction project. This is the dilemma many of us face: we crave the simple joy of an open fire but need a solution that is affordable, movable, and straightforward. The search for a practical, yet elegant, centerpiece for our outdoor living space led us directly to test and evaluate the Amazon Basics 27 inch Steel Round Lattice Fire Pit.
What to Consider Before Buying a Fire Pit
A fire pit is more than just a metal container for wood; it’s a key solution for transforming an underutilized patio or backyard into a vibrant social space. It extends the usability of your outdoor areas into cooler months, provides a focal point for gatherings, and creates an unparalleled atmosphere for everything from roasting marshmallows with kids to enjoying a quiet glass of wine. The main benefit is accessibility to the campfire experience without needing a dedicated campsite or a massive, permanent structure. It brings warmth, light, and a primal sense of community right to your doorstep.
The ideal customer for this type of product is a homeowner or renter with a modest outdoor space—a patio, a small yard, or a deck—who values flexibility and affordability. They are likely looking for their first fire pit, or a replacement for an older, basic model. They want something that looks good and performs the core function of holding a fire safely, without needing a four-figure budget. Conversely, this type of budget-friendly steel fire pit might not be suitable for those who demand extreme durability, plan to use their pit multiple times a week year-round, or live in harsh, wet climates without covered storage. For those individuals, a heavier-duty cast iron, stainless steel, or permanent stone fire pit might be a more suitable long-term investment.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: Measure your intended area carefully. A fire pit needs safe clearance from your home, fences, overhanging branches, and any flammable materials. The 27-inch diameter of this model is a great middle-ground, large enough for a decent fire but compact enough for most patios. Consider not just the pit’s footprint, but also the space needed for chairs around it.
- Capacity/Performance: Think about the size of the fires you want. The fire bowl’s diameter—in this case, 23 inches—determines how many standard-sized logs you can fit. A deeper bowl contains embers and ash better, while features like lattice sides allow for better airflow, which helps the fire burn more efficiently and provides heat from all angles.
- Materials & Durability: Most budget-friendly fire pits are made from painted or powder-coated steel. While affordable and lightweight, steel is prone to rust if left exposed to the elements. Heavier-gauge steel, cast iron, or stainless steel will offer significantly longer lifespans but at a higher cost. The trade-off is often between weight, cost, and longevity.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: Consider the entire lifecycle of using the fire pit. How easy is it to assemble? Does it come with necessary accessories like a spark screen and poker? How will you clean out the ash after a fire? To ensure a long life, you’ll need a plan for covering it or storing it out of the rain.
Keeping these factors in mind, the Amazon Basics 27 inch Steel Round Lattice Fire Pit stands out in several areas, particularly for its value proposition. You can explore its detailed specifications here.
While the Amazon Basics 27 inch Steel Round Lattice 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: Unboxing and Assembling the Backyard Centerpiece
The arrival of the Amazon Basics 27 inch Steel Round Lattice Fire Pit was met with a mix of excitement and trepidation. As many users have noted, the packaging often arrives looking like it’s been through a battle. Our box was similarly dinged and battered, but thankfully, the contents inside were unharmed—a testament more to luck than robust packaging. Pulling the pieces out, the first thing we noticed was the unit’s weight. At just over 17 pounds, it’s surprisingly lightweight, making it easy for one person to maneuver. The finish is a standard matte black paint, and the steel lattice work feels reasonably sturdy for the price point. Assembly was, for the most part, intuitive. While some users reported missing or poor instructions, we found the process to be manageable in about 20-30 minutes with basic tools. The main components—the bowl, the four legs, and the outer ring—fit together without too much fuss, though we could immediately see what some users meant about potential quality control hiccups; a slight wobble was present until we carefully adjusted the feet on a level surface.
What We Like
- Excellent value for the price point
- Attractive lattice design provides a 360-degree fire view
- Lightweight and easy to move or reposition
- Includes a functional spark screen and poker
What We Didn’t Like
- Thin steel construction is susceptible to rust without proper care
- Inconsistent quality control can lead to wobbly legs or misaligned parts
A Deep Dive into Performance and Durability
A fire pit’s true worth is only revealed when you light the first fire and see how it holds up over time. We put the Amazon Basics 27 inch Steel Round Lattice Fire Pit through multiple burns, evaluating everything from assembly nuances to its long-term viability as a backyard staple.
Assembly and Build Quality: A Case of “You Get What You Pay For”
Our experience with the assembly process was a microcosm of this product’s core identity: functional, but with some rough edges. The instructions are basic, essentially a single exploded-view diagram. For anyone who has assembled flat-pack furniture, it’s straightforward. However, this is where quality control variations become apparent. We read numerous accounts of warped bowls, misaligned screw holes, and poorly welded feet, and we can see how this happens. The steel is relatively thin, and a rough journey during shipping could easily cause the main bowl to deform slightly, as one user found when their bowl arrived “caved in.” We were fortunate, and our parts lined up reasonably well. The legs attach directly to the bowl, and we did notice a slight wobble, confirming reports that it can be tricky to get perfectly level on a hard, flat surface like a concrete patio. On grass, this is a non-issue. The included poker is a two-piece screw-together affair that feels flimsy; it’s fine for lifting the screen but, as one user correctly pointed out, it will bend if you try to maneuver a heavy log. For the price, these are understandable compromises. It’s a budget product, and the expectation should be for a functional item, not a piece of heirloom-quality hardware. If you’re prepared for the possibility of a little “persuasion” during assembly, the end result is a perfectly usable fire pit.
Design and In-Use Performance: The 360-Degree Experience
Once assembled and in place, the design of the Amazon Basics 27 inch Steel Round Lattice Fire Pit truly shines. The key feature is the lattice cut-out pattern that encircles the entire bowl. This isn’t just for aesthetics; it provides a fantastic 360-degree view of the fire. No matter where you’re sitting, you get the full visual effect and radiant heat. This design also promotes excellent airflow, helping the wood burn more completely and with less smoke than a solid-walled pit. The 23-inch diameter fire bowl is an ideal size for a typical backyard gathering. We found it comfortably held 4-5 standard-sized firewood logs, creating a substantial and warm blaze perfect for an evening with friends. This confirms what one user observed: while some pits advertise larger outer diameters, the actual usable bowl size is what matters, and this one hits a sweet spot. The included spark screen fits snugly on top, doing an admirable job of containing pops and embers, which is a crucial safety feature, especially if you have kids or pets around. During our tests, the outer ring remained cool enough to touch briefly, though we wouldn’t recommend using it as a footrest or table. It functions primarily as a structural and safety component, providing a small buffer from the hot inner bowl.
Durability and Long-Term Care: The Key to Longevity
This is arguably the most critical aspect of owning the Amazon Basics 27 inch Steel Round Lattice Fire Pit. The alloy steel construction, while sturdy enough for regular use, has a clear weakness: rust. We cannot stress this enough. If you leave this fire pit uncovered and exposed to rain, it will begin to show surface rust almost immediately, and significant decay can set in within a season or two. One long-term user reported their legs rotted out after three years of heavy use—an entirely believable outcome without preventative care. To make this product last, you must treat it as an investment that requires upkeep. First, a waterproof cover is not optional; it is essential. After every use, once the pit has completely cooled, it should be covered. Second, we highly recommend drilling a few small drain holes in the bottom of the bowl, a clever tip suggested by several experienced owners. This prevents rainwater from pooling inside and accelerating rust. For those willing to go the extra mile, a coat of high-temperature spray paint at the start of each season can add another layer of protection. By taking these simple, proactive steps, you can easily double or triple the lifespan of the fire pit, transforming it from a one-season wonder into a multi-year backyard companion. It’s a small price to pay for the immense value it provides.
What Other Users Are Saying
Scouring feedback from a wide range of owners, a clear and consistent picture of the Amazon Basics 27 inch Steel Round Lattice Fire Pit emerges. The sentiment is overwhelmingly positive when viewed through the lens of its price. One happy customer summarized this perfectly, saying, “I shopped around…before settling on ordering this firepit for the price point as well as the look I wanted. Very pleased with this choice.” They noted it “works wonderfully” for s’mores, singing, and storytelling. This reflects the core appeal: it delivers the desired experience at a fraction of the cost of premium models.
However, the negative feedback is just as consistent and centers on quality control and material limitations. One user bluntly called it “cheap junk” after it arrived with a caved-in bottom, though they later amended their review after fixing it, concluding it “will get the job done” as a budget product. Another pointed out the critical need for protection from the elements: “if left out in the rain, it will rust right away.” These comments don’t contradict the positive ones; they simply highlight the trade-offs. The consensus is that if you get a unit that isn’t damaged in shipping and you commit to keeping it covered, you’ll be very satisfied with your purchase for years to come.
How Does It Compare to the Alternatives?
The Amazon Basics 27 inch Steel Round Lattice Fire Pit occupies a specific niche, but it’s important to understand the other options available, which serve very different purposes.
1. YSEJOMP 36 Inch Round Foldable Fire Pit Ring
- Durable Construction: The Silver Round Galvanized Fire Pit Ring is made from 0.8MM thick high-quality galvanized steel, ensuring long-lasting durability and resistance to rust or corrosion
- Safety: The 36-inch diameter offers ample space for a roaring fire while maintaining a safe distance from surrounding areas. The fire pit ring helps contain the fire, preventing it from spreading and...
- Easy Assembly: This fire pit ring is designed for easy assembly by 32 screw and butterfly nut sets, allowing you to quickly set up your fire pit and start enjoying a warm and cozy fire (Protective...
This product is a fundamentally different tool. The YSEJOMP is a fire *ring*, not a self-contained pit. It is designed to be placed directly on the ground—in your yard, at a campsite, or on a beach—to contain a larger, more traditional campfire. It offers a much larger 36-inch diameter but provides no elevation, no ash pan, and no leg support. This is the ideal choice for someone who wants a more permanent, in-ground fire feature or a portable ring for camping. It’s not suitable for use on a deck or patio, where the heat would damage the surface below. If you have a large yard and want a classic campfire feel, this is a great option; otherwise, the elevated and contained design of the Amazon Basics model is far more versatile.
2. COOZOOM 8.6″ Portable Table Top Fire Pit
- 【Firelight on the Go!】At H 8.8" × W 8.6" and 3.5 lbs, this lightweight stainless steel Table Top Fire Pit tucks easily into its nylon carry bag. Compact & portable, it withstands ultra-hot...
- 【Second Burn, Less Smoke】With its 360° Airflow Design, cool air from the bottom vents is heated inside the double wall of stainless steel, promoting a second combustion. The flame burns bright...
- 【Versatile Fuel Choices】This small unit supports multiple fuel options. Whether you opt for pellets, wood, or other fuels, enjoy lively flame and ambiance in your personal smokeless fire pit bowl.
This alternative swings to the opposite end of the spectrum: size and portability. The COOZOOM is a miniature, 8.6-inch tabletop fire pit. It’s designed to create ambiance on a small patio table, a balcony, or as a portable heat source for camping. Fueled by wood pellets or small twigs, it provides a small, low-smoke flame for one or two people to enjoy. It can’t radiate the heat needed for a large group and won’t fit standard firewood logs. This is a perfect choice for urban dwellers with limited space or anyone who wants a tiny, personal fire feature. It’s a companion to a full-sized pit, not a replacement for one like the Amazon Basics 27 inch Steel Round Lattice Fire Pit.
3. CITYBONFIRES Portable Table Top Fire Pit 2-Pack
- Safe and Easy to Use: City Bonfires is designed with convenience; Our compact fire pit is incredibly simple to light and extinguish; Just use a lighter to ignite it and cover the lid to extinguish it;...
- No Hassle Fire Pit for Any Adventure: Enjoy gathering around the open flames of a fire without worrying about ash, smoke, and cleanup; Bring City Bonfire camping, fishing, and hunting, or take it to...
- EASY, REUSABLE, AND SAFE TO USE: City Bonfires is easy to light and extinguish – put the lid back on, let it cool, and save for later; The non toxic fire from this mini tabletop fireplace is safe to...
The CITYBONFIRES product is the ultimate in convenience and portability. It’s less a fire pit and more of a giant, long-burning candle made from food-safe soy wax. It requires no wood, produces no embers, and is incredibly easy to light and extinguish. With a 3-5 hour burn time, it’s perfect for making s’mores on a whim, providing emergency heat, or creating a fire feature where traditional wood burning is impractical or disallowed. This is for the person who prioritizes ease of use and portability above all else. It doesn’t offer the crackle, smell, or radiant heat of a real wood fire, which is the entire appeal of the Amazon Basics 27 inch Steel Round Lattice Fire Pit.
Our Final Verdict: A Worthy Investment with a Caveat
After extensive testing and analysis, our verdict on the Amazon Basics 27 inch Steel Round Lattice Fire Pit is overwhelmingly positive, with one important condition. This is, without a doubt, one of the best values you can find in the world of backyard fire pits. It delivers on its core promise: providing a safe, attractive, and functional vessel for creating memorable nights around a fire. The 360-degree lattice view is a standout feature that elevates the experience beyond what many other budget models offer. Its lightweight nature makes it easy to position exactly where you want it for any given gathering.
The crucial caveat is this: you must be prepared to protect it from the elements. Its thin steel construction is its Achilles’ heel, and moisture is its kryptonite. If you buy this fire pit, you must also buy a cover and commit to using it. With that single act of maintenance, you are not just buying a product; you are investing in countless evenings of warmth, connection, and toasted marshmallows. For the casual user looking to bring the magic of a campfire home without a hefty price tag, this fire pit is an enthusiastic recommendation.
If you’ve decided the Amazon Basics 27 inch Steel Round Lattice Fire Pit is the right fit, you can check its current price and purchase it here.
Last update on 2025-10-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API