Introduction
There’s nothing quite like gathering around a warm, flickering fire on a cool evening. But the hassle of firewood, smoke, and cleanup can quickly dampen the mood. That’s where propane fire pits come in, offering instant ambiance and warmth at the turn of a knob. After extensive testing of the top models on the market, we’ve found the perfect blend of power, portability, and convenience. We’re naming the Outland Living 19-inch 58,000 BTU Portable Propane Fire Pit as our top pick. It delivers an impressive heat output, is incredibly easy to set up, and comes with a carry kit, making it the ideal companion for any outdoor adventure.
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Best Choice No products found. Outland Living 19-inch 58,000 BTU Portable Propane Fire Pit |
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 Outland Living Firebowl 870 Smokeless Propane Fire Pit |
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| Heat Output | 58,000 BTU/HR | 58,000 BTU/HR | 58,000 BTU/HR |
| Dimensions (D x W x H) | 19″ x 19″ x 11″ | 24″D x 24″W x 13″H | 19″ x 19″ x 11″ |
| Weight | 23 Pounds | 34 Pounds | 25 Pounds |
| Ignition Type | Manual | Manual | Matchless Auto-Ignition |
| Hose Length | 10 Feet | 10 Feet | 10 Feet |
| Certification | CSA Approved | CSA Approved | CSA Approved |
| Cover/Carry Kit Included | Yes | Yes (UV/Weather-resistant Cover) | Yes |
| Buy Now | No products found. | No products found. | See latest price |
Our Top 10 Picks for Best Propane Fire Pits
#1 Outland Living 19-inch 58,000 BTU Portable Propane Fire Pit – Ideal for: Overall Performance and Portability
After putting numerous models through their paces, we can confidently say the Outland Living 19-inch 58,000 BTU Portable Propane Fire Pit is the best all-around option for most people. Its combination of high heat output, rugged portability, and user-friendly design is simply unmatched. Right out of the box, we were impressed with the build quality. The high-quality steel with its protective enamel finish feels durable and ready for the rigors of camping, tailgating, or just relaxing on the patio. Setup was a breeze; we had it unpacked, connected to a propane tank, and lit in under five minutes, with no tools required. The 58,000 BTU burner produces a surprisingly large and lively flame that radiates significant warmth, easily taking the chill off a cool evening. Many users confirmed our experience, noting that it provides ample heat for a small group without the constant shuffling to avoid smoke that comes with a wood fire. The included cover and carry kit is a game-changer, making transport and storage clean and simple. The 10-foot hose is also a thoughtful touch, allowing you to keep the propane tank safely out of the immediate vicinity.
Pros
- Powerful 58,000 BTU output provides substantial heat
- Excellent portability with included cover and carry kit
- Durable steel construction with a protective finish
- Extremely easy and tool-free setup
Drawbacks
- Manual ignition requires a lighter or match
- Can consume propane quickly on the highest setting
#2 Outland Living Firebowl Smokeless Propane Fire Pit 24-Inch Black – Perfect for: Larger Groups and Patios
For those who need a bit more size for larger gatherings without sacrificing performance, the Outland Living Firebowl Smokeless Propane Fire Pit 24-Inch Black is an outstanding choice. It boasts the same powerful 58,000 BTU heat output as its smaller sibling, but the wider 24-inch diameter creates a more substantial presence and a larger flame display. During our testing, we found this “Mega” version provided a fantastic focal point for a group of six, with everyone able to feel the warmth. The setup is just as simple—no assembly needed. We just placed the lava rocks, hooked up the tank, and lit it. The flames danced impressively over the generous layer of rocks, creating a wonderful ambiance. While it’s heavier and bulkier than the 19-inch model, making it slightly less ideal for rugged camping trips, it’s perfect for RVs, car camping, or as a semi-permanent fixture on a backyard patio. A sentiment echoed by many users is its fantastic heat output, with some noting they had to move their chairs back on the highest setting. It’s a robust, powerful, and easy-to-use fire pit that offers great value for its size.
Advantages
- Large 24-inch diameter is great for bigger groups
- High 58,000 BTU heat output
- No assembly required for quick setup
- Sturdy build quality and attractive design
Limitations
- Heavier and bulkier than 19-inch models
- Heat tends to radiate upwards more than outwards
#3 Outland Living Firebowl 870 Smokeless Propane Fire Pit – Ideal for: Ultimate Convenience
Outland Living Firebowl 870 Premium 19” Auto-Ignition Smokeless Propane Fire Pit – Outdoor Gas...
- ✓ PERFECT NO MESS CAMPFIRE: Say goodbye to dirty ash, expensive firewood, and bothersome smoke and enjoy a clean realistic propane campfire. The perfect outdoor centerpiece for camping trips, RV...
- ✓ COMPACT AND EASY TO TRANSPORT: Travel size fire pit is lightweight and portable; easily set up in minutes with no tools required. Matchless auto-ignition feature ensures a fast and simple...
- ✓ BEAT THE CAMPFIRE BAN: CSA approved fire pit is safe to use during most campfire bans; always check with the current fire restrictions in your area. Spark free propane campfire helps protect...
- ✓ PERFECT NO MESS CAMPFIRE: Say goodbye to dirty ash, expensive firewood, and bothersome smoke and enjoy a clean realistic propane campfire. The perfect outdoor centerpiece for camping trips, RV...
- ✓ COMPACT AND EASY TO TRANSPORT: Travel size fire pit is lightweight and portable; easily set up in minutes with no tools required. Matchless auto-ignition feature ensures a fast and simple...
- ✓ BEAT THE CAMPFIRE BAN: CSA approved fire pit is safe to use during most campfire bans; always check with the current fire restrictions in your area. Spark free propane campfire helps protect...
The Outland Living Firebowl 870 Smokeless Propane Fire Pit takes the excellent foundation of the standard model and adds a key feature we absolutely love: matchless auto-ignition. This seemingly small upgrade makes a huge difference in convenience, especially in windy or damp conditions. In our tests, the auto-igniter worked flawlessly, starting the fire with a simple push and turn of the knob. No more fumbling for a lighter or matches. Beyond the ignition, the 870 model delivers the same impressive 58,000 BTUs of heat that we’ve come to expect from the brand. The lava rocks heated up quickly, radiating a comfortable warmth that kept our whole team toasty. The build quality feels premium, with stainless steel components and an improved base design for added stability. It also includes the essential steel lid and carrying straps, making it just as portable as our top pick. While some users reported that the auto-igniter can become finicky over time, we found it reliable during our evaluation, and the added convenience is well worth it for those who prioritize ease of use above all else.
Key Benefits
- Perfect no mess campfire: with our fire pit say goodbye to dirty ash, expensive firewood, and bothersome smoke and enjoy a clean realistic propane fire pits for outside. The perfect outdoor fireplace...
- Compact and easy to transport: Travel size fire pit is lightweight and portable; Easily set up in minutes with no tools required. Lower profile increases the functional heat radius while new Helios...
- Beat the campfire ban: CSA approved fire pit is safe to use during most campfire bans; Always check with the current fire restrictions in your area. Spark free propane campfire helps protect...
The Outland Living 21-inch Portable Propane Fire Pit 58,000 BTU, also known as the Cypress, strikes an excellent balance between the compact 19-inch models and the larger 24-inch version. What sets this model apart in our testing is its lower profile and the unique Helios burner. This design is engineered to increase the functional heat radius, and we could feel the difference. The warmth seemed to spread more horizontally, making it more comfortable for everyone sitting around it. The Helios burner also produced a fuller, more natural-looking flame that was quite impressive. It packs the same 58,000 BTU punch, so there’s no shortage of power. We found it to be a fantastic “just right” size—portable enough for camping but substantial enough for the backyard. The setup is refreshingly simple, and many users agree, with one person noting they had it assembled and running in under five minutes. For those who want the convenience of a propane fire pit but crave a more authentic flame pattern and better heat distribution, this model is a superb choice.
What We Like
- Lower profile design improves heat distribution
- Helios burner creates a fuller, more natural flame
- Great mid-size option at 21 inches
- Comes fully assembled and ready to use
Cons
- Lava rock bags can break during shipping, creating dust
- Carry kit included, but a separate bag offers better protection
#5 Outland Living 19-inch Portable Propane Fire Pit – Ideal for: Budget-Conscious Campers
- Perfect No-Mess Campfire: With our fire pit, say goodbye to dirty ash, expensive firewood, and bothersome smoke and enjoy a clean, realistic propane fire pit for outside. The perfect outdoor fireplace...
- Compact and Easy to Transport: Travel-size fire pit is lightweight and portable. Easily set up in minutes with no tools required. All-weather fire bowl, outdoor fire pits delivers a clean and...
- Beat the Campfire Ban: CSA approved fire pit is safe to use during most campfire bans. Always check with the current fire restrictions in your area. Spark-free propane campfire helps protect...
If you’re looking for the proven performance of an Outland fire bowl without the extra frills, the Outland Living 19-inch Portable Propane Fire Pit is the answer. This is the standard, no-nonsense model that started it all, delivering a robust 58,000 BTUs of heat in a compact and lightweight package. In our hands-on evaluation, it performed identically to its deluxe counterpart in terms of heat and flame quality. It’s incredibly easy to set up and, at just 22 pounds, it’s a breeze to carry to a campsite or out to the patio. The main difference is the absence of the included cover and carry kit. While this makes it a more budget-friendly option, we do recommend investing in a separate carrying bag to protect it and contain the lava rocks during transport. Many users praise it as a phenomenal value, providing all the heat and ambiance needed for camping trips, especially during burn bans. It’s a workhorse of a fire pit that proves you don’t need to spend a lot to get a high-quality, reliable source of smokeless warmth.
Pros
- Excellent value for the price
- Powerful 58,000 BTU heat output
- Lightweight and highly portable design
- Simple to operate and maintain
What We Didn’t Like
- Does not include a cover or carry kit
- Like other models, it can be a propane hog on high
#6 Solo Stove Bonfire Smokeless Fire Pit with Stand – Perfect for: The Wood-Burning Enthusiast
- SMOKELESS FIRE PIT: Experience the magic of a cozy, smoke-free fire that’s perfect for any outdoor setting. From camping trips to backyard gatherings, this air-flow efficient outdoor fireplace keeps...
- WARMTH ON THE GO: This portable, lightweight camping heater weighs just over 20 pounds and comes with a convenient carrying case so you can make it easy to bring the warmth and ambiance wherever your...
- EASY TO CLEAN: Spark up adventure without the hassle of deep cleaning. This fireplace features a removable ash pan and base to make post-fire cleanup a breeze. Spend less time cleaning and more time...
While our focus is propane, we couldn’t ignore the sheer performance of the Solo Stove Bonfire Smokeless Fire Pit with Stand as the best wood-burning alternative. For those who love the crackle and aroma of a real wood fire but hate the smoke, this is a game-changer. Its patented design creates a secondary burn that eliminates nearly all smoke once the fire is established. We were skeptical, but our tests proved it works as advertised; we could sit right next to it without our eyes watering or our clothes smelling like a chimney. The stainless steel construction is not only beautiful but also durable. Fires are incredibly easy to start due to the superior airflow, and it burns wood so efficiently that cleanup is a snap, thanks to the new removable ash pan. As one user aptly put it, “I didn’t have to play musical chairs around the fire trying to avoid the smoke monster.” It’s lightweight and comes with a carry case, making it surprisingly portable. If you’re willing to handle firewood, the smokeless experience is truly second to none.
Advantages
- Truly smokeless wood-burning experience
- Highly efficient burn leaves minimal ash
- Sleek and durable 304 stainless steel design
- Portable and includes a stand and carry case
Limitations
- Requires a supply of firewood
- Radiates most heat upward, less so from the sides
#7 BALI OUTDOORS 32-inch Wood Burning Fire Pit with Grill – Ideal for: Backyard Grilling and Gatherings
- Humanized Design: BALI OUTDOORS 32 inch fire pit is suitable for your family and friends to have a bonfire and barbecue outdoors. 24 inch fire bowl design of large fire pit effectively avoids sparks...
- Sturdy and Durable: Our patio fire pit is made of high-quality metal, so it has long-term durability. This ensures that it will not break easily. The outdoor firepit can withstand the test of various...
- Easy to Assemble: Follow the steps in the instruction manual to assemble, and you can quickly and conveniently assemble this simple outdoor fire pit in less than 20 minutes. No need to waste extra...
The BALI OUTDOORS 32-inch Wood Burning Fire Pit with Grill is a fantastic multi-functional piece for any backyard. It’s more than just a fire pit; it’s an outdoor cooking station. The standout feature we loved during testing was the adjustable, 360-degree rotating cooking grate. We could easily swing it over the flames to grill some burgers and then move it out of the way to enjoy the fire. The 24-inch fire bowl is deep and spacious, accommodating standard-sized logs with ease, and the outer ring provides a convenient footrest or a place to set down a drink. Assembly was straightforward, taking us about 20 minutes. While the metal is on the thinner side compared to premium models, it’s perfectly adequate for its price point and intended use. As several users noted, it’s a well-designed pit that provides excellent ventilation for a strong fire. If you want the classic wood-burning experience combined with the versatility of an open-fire grill, this pit offers tremendous value and functionality.
Key Benefits
- Includes an adjustable and removable cooking grill
- Large 32-inch diameter with a deep fire bowl
- Outer ring serves as a safety rail and footrest
- Good airflow for strong, consistent fires
Cons
- Materials are thinner than more expensive fire pits
- May be prone to rust if left uncovered
#8 Solo Stove Ranger 2.0 Portable Fire Pit with Stand – Perfect for: Portable Wood-Burning Campfires
- SMOKELESS FIRE PIT: Experience the magic of a cozy, smoke-free fire that burns off smoke before it reaches you. The innovative 360° Airflow technology provides a low-smoke fire, ensuring your...
- READY FOR ADVENTURE: Turn every moment into an unforgettable memory with this portable compact outdoor fire pit. Weighing just over 15 pounds and including a free carry case, this lightweight wood...
- LASTS FOR YEARS: Crafted from premium 304 stainless steel, this camp stove offers long-lasting durability and reliability. Enjoy resilient, vibrant fires for years to come with a fire pit that...
The Solo Stove Ranger 2.0 Portable Fire Pit with Stand is the Bonfire’s smaller, more travel-friendly cousin. It delivers the same incredible smokeless technology in a compact package that’s perfect for small decks, camping, or taking to the beach. Weighing just 16.5 pounds, we found it incredibly easy to pack up in its included carry case and transport. During our evaluation, it was the perfect size for two to four people. Despite its smaller footprint, it generates an impressive flame and a surprising amount of heat, all while remaining virtually smoke-free. Like the larger model, it burns wood with remarkable efficiency, reducing logs to a fine ash that’s simple to clean out via the removable ash pan. Our experience aligns with many users who love its portability and safety for camping. The main consideration is that standard firewood logs often need to be cut down to fit inside its 15-inch diameter. If you want the magic of a smokeless wood fire on the go, the Ranger is the undisputed champion.
What We Like
- Extremely portable and lightweight
- Features the same great smokeless technology as larger models
- Efficient burning and easy cleanup with removable ash pan
- Ideal size for small patios or camping trips
Drawbacks
- Requires smaller pieces of wood
- Outer walls can get very hot during use
#9 Solo Stove Mesa XL Tabletop Fire Pit – Ideal for: Tabletop Ambiance and S’mores
- 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,...
For those who want a touch of firelight without committing to a full-size pit, the Solo Stove Mesa XL Tabletop Fire Pit is a delightful solution. This miniature fire pit brings the brand’s signature smokeless design to your patio table. We tested it with both small wood chunks and pellets (using the included adapter) and were charmed by the vibrant, smoke-free flame it produced. It’s the perfect size for roasting marshmallows or simply adding a warm, mesmerizing centerpiece to an evening conversation. At just over two pounds, it’s supremely portable, and the included stand ensures it can be used safely on various surfaces. Many users, like us, found it to be a fantastic s’mores maker that kids and adults love. It kicks out a surprising amount of localized heat, making it perfect for taking the chill off your hands. While you’ll need to feed it fuel more frequently than a large pit, its ease of use and cozy ambiance make it a wonderful and versatile addition to any outdoor space.
Pros
- Compact and perfect for tabletop use
- Dual-fuel capability (wood or pellets)
- Smokeless design provides great ambiance
- Extremely lightweight and portable
What We Didn’t Like
- Small fuel capacity requires frequent refilling
- Pellets can sometimes produce more smoke than wood
#10 Sunnydaze 36-Inch Bronze Crossweave Outdoor Fire Pit – Perfect for: Traditional Large-Scale Bonfires
- GREAT FOR LARGE GATHERINGS: This wood fire pit for outside is great for comfortably gathering 6-8 friends and family around for a bonfire in the yard or on the patio. This fire pit measures 36" in...
- DURABLE, RUST-RESISTANT DESIGN: This heavy-duty fire pit is made from durable steel and finished with bronze high-temperature paint for long-lasting use and resistance to rust. The outer ring allows...
- IMPROVED AIRFLOW AND SAFETY: The outdoor fireplace for patio includes a metal spark screen and mesh-covered cutouts for added safety from flying sparks, a weather-resistant round cover, and a poker...
The Sunnydaze 36-Inch Bronze Crossweave Outdoor Fire Pit is a classic, no-fuss option for those who want a large, traditional wood-burning experience. Its generous 36-inch diameter and 11-inch deep bowl can hold a substantial amount of wood, making it perfect for big backyard gatherings. We appreciated the simple, sturdy design and the attractive crossweave pattern that allows heat to radiate outwards. The assembly was quick, taking about 15 minutes with two people. The package includes everything you need to get started: a spark screen for safety, a poker, and a weather-resistant cover. The outer ring is a great safety feature and also makes the pit easy to move when it’s cool. While it’s a traditional fire pit and will produce smoke, its large size and good airflow help create a robust and enjoyable fire. Our findings were confirmed by users who love its large capacity and sturdy feel for the price. If you have the space and want to host memorable bonfires, this is a solid, affordable choice.
Advantages
- Very large 36-inch size is great for entertaining
- Deep bowl holds plenty of wood
- Comes with a spark screen, poker, and cover
- Easy to assemble and relatively lightweight for its size
Limitations
- Not smokeless; produces traditional wood smoke
- Cover is not very durable and may need replacing
The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose The Right Product for You
Key Factors to Consider
- Heat Output (BTUs): BTU stands for British Thermal Unit and is a measure of heat output. For a propane fire pit, we recommend looking for models with at least 50,000 BTUs. This ensures enough warmth for a small group on a cool night. All our top propane picks feature an impressive 58,000 BTUs.
- Portability: Consider where you’ll use your fire pit. If you plan on camping, tailgating, or moving it around the yard, a lightweight model with a carrying case is essential. Heavier, larger models are better suited as semi-permanent fixtures on a patio.
- Ignition Type: Propane fire pits come with either manual or auto-ignition. Manual ignition requires a match or lighter, which is simple and reliable. Auto-ignition (or push-button ignition) offers greater convenience, especially in windy conditions.
- Materials and Durability: Look for fire pits made from high-quality steel with a protective powder coating or enamel finish. Stainless steel burners and fasteners will resist rust and last longer.
- Safety Features: CSA (Canadian Standards Association) approval is a key indicator of a product that has been tested for safety. Also, look for features like a long hose (10 feet is good) to keep the tank away from the flame and a stable base to prevent tipping.
Understanding BTUs and Heat
When you see a BTU rating on a propane fire pit, it’s telling you the maximum heat it can produce per hour. A higher BTU number means more potential warmth. A 58,000 BTU fire pit can generate significant heat, but remember that ambient temperature, wind, and how close you sit will all affect how warm you feel. The lava rocks included with most propane pits play a crucial role; they absorb and radiate heat, creating a more even and consistent warmth than an open flame alone.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Ignoring Local Regulations: Always check local ordinances and campsite rules regarding fire pits. Many areas with fire bans allow CSA-approved propane fire pits because they are spark-free, but it’s crucial to verify first.
- Forgetting Fuel Consumption: A powerful fire pit uses more fuel. On its highest setting, a 58,000 BTU model can use a 20lb propane tank in 7-10 hours. Plan accordingly and consider running it on a lower setting to conserve fuel.
- Placing it on Unsafe Surfaces: Never use a fire pit directly on a grassy lawn, wood deck, or composite decking without a heat-resistant barrier underneath, unless the manufacturer explicitly states it is safe to do so.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a 20lb propane tank last in a fire pit?
The runtime depends heavily on the fire pit’s BTU rating and the flame setting you use. A typical 20lb propane tank contains about 430,000 BTUs of energy. For a 58,000 BTU fire pit running on its highest setting, you can expect approximately 7 to 8 hours of use. On a medium or low setting, this can easily be extended to 15-20 hours or more.
Do propane fire pits provide enough heat to stay warm?
Absolutely. A fire pit with a rating of 50,000 BTUs or higher provides significant warmth, easily taking the chill off a cool evening for a group of 4-6 people sitting within a few feet of it. The lava rocks or glass also radiate heat, which adds to the overall comfort.
Are propane fire pits safe to use on a composite or wood deck?
It depends on the specific fire pit’s design. Many portable models are designed to be used on various surfaces, as their bases do not get excessively hot. However, we always recommend placing a fire-resistant mat or paver stones underneath as a precaution to protect your deck surface from any potential heat damage. Always consult the manufacturer’s instructions for specific guidance.
Can you convert a propane fire pit to natural gas?
Some models offer optional conversion kits that allow you to connect the fire pit to your home’s natural gas line. This is a great option for a permanent patio setup, as it eliminates the need for propane tanks. Always use a manufacturer-approved kit and consider hiring a professional for the installation to ensure safety.
What BTU rating should I look for in a propane fire pit?
For most backyard and camping applications, a BTU rating between 40,000 and 60,000 is ideal. This range provides a good balance of strong heat output without consuming propane excessively fast. All of the Outland models we reviewed feature a powerful 58,000 BTU rating, which we found to be perfect for most situations.
Is it safe to use a propane fire pit under a covered patio?
This is generally not recommended unless your covered patio is very well-ventilated and has a high ceiling. Propane fire pits produce carbon monoxide, which can be dangerous in enclosed spaces. Always check the manufacturer’s manual for specific clearance requirements for overhead structures and walls. Safety should always be the top priority.
What are the benefits of a propane fire pit over a wood-burning one?
Propane fire pits offer several key advantages: convenience (instant on/off), control (adjustable flame height), safety (no sparks or embers), and cleanliness (no smoke, ash, or soot). They are often permitted during fire bans when wood fires are not. The main trade-off is the lack of the traditional crackle and smell of a real wood fire.
Conclusion: Our Final Recommendation
After thorough testing and consideration, we stand firmly by our top choice: the Outland Living 19-inch 58,000 BTU Portable Propane Fire Pit. It is the quintessential portable fire pit, striking the perfect balance between high performance, ease of use, and rugged durability. Its 58,000 BTU output is more than enough to warm a group of friends and family, and its smokeless flame provides all the ambiance of a campfire without any of the hassle. The tool-free setup and the inclusion of a practical cover and carry kit make it an unbeatable package for camping, tailgating, or simply upgrading your backyard. If you’re looking for a reliable, powerful, and convenient fire pit, this is the one to get.
Last update on 2025-10-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API