Comparison: Best Outdoor Fire Pit For Heat (Updated | Jan 12th)
Looking for the best outdoor fire pit to keep you warm on chilly nights? You’re not alone. We’ve tested and compared top models to help you find the perfect balance of heat output, durability, and style. Whether you want a cozy backyard gathering spot or a portable heater for camping, our guide covers it all. Let’s dive into the options that’ll turn your outdoor space into a warm, inviting retreat all year round.
Key Takeaways
- Top pick offers high heat output with versatile, easy controls.
- Consider heat output and versatility when choosing a fire pit.
- Portability and ease of use are key factors for outdoor heating.
Ninja |Fireside360™ | Outdoor Heater & Fire Pit | 3 Modes: Flame
High Heat Versatility
- Three versatile modes
- High heat output
- Easy dial control
- BEST FOR PATIO PARTY CHOICE: Ciays 28 Inch Propane Fire Pit CSA-Listed Outdoor Fire Pit Table Read More ↓
- BEST FOR ULTRA PORTABLE CAMPFIRE: Fireside Outdoor Portable Fire Pit for Camping Read More ↓
- BEST FOR HIGH HEAT VERSATILITY: Ninja |Fireside360™ | Outdoor Heater & Fire Pit | 3 Modes: Flame Read More ↓
- BEST FOR SMOKELESS STAINLESS STEEL: Cuisinart 24” Cleanburn Smokeless Fire Pit with Removable Base for Ash Read More ↓
- BEST FOR VERSATILE HEAT MODES: Ninja Fireside360™ Outdoor Heater & Fire Pit with 3 Modes – Flame Read More ↓
- BEST FOR COMPACT TABLE HEATER: 20″ Square Smokeless Propane Fire Pit Table Read More ↓
- BEST FOR MESMERIZING SPIRAL FLAME: Rayzi 58 Inch Pellet Stove Read More ↓
- BEST FOR HIGH OUTPUT TABLE: Hykolity 42 Inch Gas Fire Pit Table Read More ↓
- BEST FOR TABLETOP CENTERPIECE: 28-inch Table Top Propane Fire Pit Read More ↓
Product Comparison: Best Outdoor Fire Pit For Heat
Ciays 28 Inch Propane Fire Pit CSA-Listed Outdoor Fire Pit Table, 50,000 BTU Steel Gas Fire Pits with Lid and Lava Rock, Add Warmth and Ambience to Parties On Patio Deck Garden,Black,CIFPT3-N1
The Ciays 28 Inch Propane Fire Pit is a perfect addition to your patio, offering warmth and style. With 50,000 BTUs, it keeps your gatherings cozy and food warm.
Easy to set up, just connect a propane tank and enjoy the flame. The 28-inch table surface holds drinks and snacks, making it ideal for parties.
Includes lava rocks for ambiance and a lid for safety. CSA-listed and tested for safety, it’s designed for hassle-free outdoor use.
A great centerpiece for any outdoor event, ensuring your guests stay comfortable and entertained.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Powerful 50,000 BTU heat
- Easy propane tank connection
- Spacious 28-inch tabletop
- Includes lava rocks and lid
- CSA-listed for safety
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Requires propane tank
- Heavy to move
Fireside Outdoor Portable Fire Pit for Camping, Portable Fire Pit Grill for Backyard, Outdoor Firepit with Heat Protect, Camping Firepits, Standing Bonfire Outside for Backyard, 8 lb Weights – 24 inch
The Fireside Outdoor Portable Fire Pit is a lightweight, 8-pound solution for camping or backyard use. It assembles in under 60 seconds without tools and fits into a weather-resistant bag.
The patented mesh technology ensures a cleaner, hotter fire with 80% less smoke. Made from durable aluminum and stainless steel, it supports wood, charcoal, or wax logs.
Compliant with USFS and BLM regulations, it includes a heat shield for safe placement on any surface. Perfect for outdoor adventures, it offers bright flames and minimal mess for a hassle-free experience.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Lightweight and portable
- Quick 60-second assembly
- 80% less smoke output
- Durable aluminum construction
- Meets fire regulations
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Smaller 24-inch size
- Limited fuel capacity
Ninja |Fireside360™ | Outdoor Heater & Fire Pit | 3 Modes: Flame, Heat, Flame & Heat | Portable for Patio, Deck, Camping, Beach | Easy Control Flames & Heat | Push to Start Ignition | Black | OF101AMZ
The Ninja Fireside360 offers unmatched versatility with three distinct modes: flame only, heat only, or both. Delivering 80,000 BTUs of combined power, it serves as both a propane fire pit and a powerful outdoor heater.
The full flame control lets you set the perfect ambiance without extra heat on warm nights, while the heat-only mode is ideal for chilly days. Its hassle-free dial control ensures easy ignition and adjustment, eliminating the need for wood.
Portable and efficient, this unit is perfect for patios, providing customizable comfort and style for any outdoor gathering.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Three versatile modes
- High heat output
- Easy dial control
- No wood needed
- Portable design
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Propane required
- Higher price
Cuisinart 24” Cleanburn Smokeless Fire Pit with Removable Base for Ash, Portable Wood Burning Outdoor Fireplace, Stainless Steel Smoke Free Outdoor Heater, Enhanced Airflow and Easy Cleanup
The Cuisinart 24” Cleanburn Fire Pit combines style and functionality with its innovative smokeless design. Featuring double-wall construction, it enhances airflow for a clean-burning fire with minimal smoke and maximum heat.
The bottom vents and curved walls ensure fast ignition, accommodating wood logs up to 18 inches. Built from durable stainless steel with a high-heat enamel coating, it’s both sturdy and portable at just 22 lbs.
The ash base system simplifies cleanup, while the sleek modern look elevates any outdoor space. Ideal for patios, backyards, or camping, it delivers a cozy, efficient fire experience.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Smokeless design
- Easy cleanup system
- Durable stainless steel
- Portable and lightweight
- Efficient airflow
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Requires wood fuel
- Limited heat control
Ninja Fireside360™ Outdoor Heater & Fire Pit with 3 Modes – Flame, Heat, Flame & Heat, Portable for Patio, Deck, Camping, Beach, Easy Control Flames and Heat, Push to Start Ignition, Black, OF101BK
The Ninja Fireside360 Outdoor Heater & Fire Pit offers unmatched versatility with three modes: flame only, heat only, or both. With 80,000 BTUs of combined power, it provides robust warmth and ambiance for any outdoor setting.
The propane-powered design eliminates the hassle of wood, allowing easy ignition and control with a simple dial. Perfect for cozy patio nights or windy evenings, this portable unit delivers consistent performance.
Its durable build and user-friendly features make it a top choice for those seeking convenience and style in one compact package.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Three versatile modes
- Powerful heat output
- Easy dial control
- No smoke or ash
- Portable design
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Higher price point
- Requires propane tank
- Heavier than some models
20″ Square Smokeless Propane Fire Pit Table, 50,000 BTU Portable Outdoor Patio Heater with Lava Rocks, Glass Wind Guard & Cover for Deck, Backyard, Garden, Camping (Grey)
This 20-inch square smokeless propane fire pit by Electactic combines functionality and style. With 50,000 BTUs, it delivers ample warmth while its clean-burning system ensures no smoke or ash.
The unit doubles as a side table when not in use, adding versatility to your outdoor space. Its compact, portable design (39 lbs) makes it easy to move, and the included waterproof cover offers protection.
Certified for safety, it features effortless ignition and comes pre-assembled with lava rocks and a glass wind guard for quick setup.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- True smokeless operation
- Doubles as a table
- Compact and portable
- Easy ignition system
- Includes protective cover
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Lower heat output
- Limited color options
- Smaller size
Rayzi 58 Inch Pellet Stove, Patio Heater Wood Pellet Heater, Pellet Fire Pit for Outdoor – Smokeless Wood Pellet Burning Flame, Outside Backyard Bonfire, Fireplace for Camping Patio Garden Picnic
The Rayzi 58 Inch Pellet Stove offers a stunning spiral flame design that creates a cozy, mesmerizing ambiance for any outdoor space. Built with durable materials and 1000mm glass piping, it delivers a tornado-like flame effect perfect for gatherings or peaceful evenings.
Its triple-burn technology ensures clean, efficient burning with minimal smoke, while the 5.7 lbs hopper provides up to 2+ hours of continuous warmth. The innovative ash box makes cleanup effortless, and the simple ignition process adds convenience.
Note that this heater is primarily for ambiance, with limited heating functionality.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Captivating spiral flame effect
- Clean and efficient burning
- Durable and stable build
- Easy ash cleanup
- Simple ignition process
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Limited heating capacity
- Requires wood pellets
- Heavy to move
Hykolity 42 Inch Gas Fire Pit Table, 60,000 BTU Propane Pits for Outside with Steel Lid and Waterproof Cover, 2 in 1 Firepit Table Gatherings Parties on Patio Deck Garden Backyard, Black
The Hykolity 42 Inch Gas Fire Pit Table combines functionality and style, serving as both a fire pit and an outdoor dining table. With 60,000 BTU output, it provides ample heat for gatherings, while the pulse ignition system allows easy flame adjustment.
The 42-inch size offers plenty of space for drinks and snacks, making it ideal for parties or romantic evenings. Adorned with multi-colored glass rocks, it ensures even heat distribution and a charming ambiance.
Crafted from durable steel, it’s CSA-certified for safety, featuring a push-button spark ignition for hassle-free use.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- 2-in-1 versatile design
- High 60,000 BTU output
- Easy flame adjustment
- Durable steel construction
- CSA-certified for safety
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Requires propane tank
- Assembly needed
- Limited portability
28-inch Table Top Propane Fire Pit, 40,000 BTU Tabletop Firepit for Patio, Outdoor Portable Rectangular Fire Bowl w/Wind Glass Shield, Glass Rocks – Black
The BAIDE HOME 28-inch Table Top Propane Fire Pit delivers 40,000 BTU of heat, making it a powerful addition to any outdoor space. Crafted from durable powder-coated steel with a stainless-steel burner, it’s built to last.
Its versatile design fits medium to large tables, with a unique rear-mounted hose regulator for easy setup. The included glass shield adds safety and style, while the bottom-to-side hose conversion ensures compatibility with umbrella-hole tables.
Perfect for patio or backyard gatherings, this fire pit creates a cozy ambiance for family and friends.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- High heat output
- Durable steel construction
- Versatile table compatibility
- Easy hose conversion
- Includes glass shield
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Propane tank excluded
- Requires large table
- Heavy to move
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Buying Guide
FAQs
What factors should I consider when choosing an outdoor fire pit for heat?
Look for heat output measured in BTUs, with higher numbers providing more warmth. Materials like steel or cast iron retain heat better, while propane or gas options offer consistent heat compared to wood pits. Portability and ease of use, such as push-button ignition, can also enhance your experience.
How do wood-burning and gas fire pits compare in terms of heat efficiency?
Wood-burning fire pits generally produce more intense heat but are less controlled and require more maintenance. Gas fire pits, fueled by propane or natural gas, offer adjustable heat and are cleaner but may not reach the same temperatures as wood. Choose based on your preference for convenience versus heat intensity.
Which fire pit design provides the best heat distribution?
Fire pits with a wide, open design or those featuring a reflective windshield or surround help disperse heat more evenly. Bowl-shaped pits radiate heat outward, while table-style models may focus warmth closer to the seating area. Consider your outdoor layout to determine which design suits your needs best.
Are there additional features that improve heat output?
Some fire pits come with heat-amplifying technology, like glass beads or lava rocks, which enhance radiant heat. Models with adjustable flame controls allow you to tailor the heat output to your comfort level. Wind guards can also help maintain consistent heat by protecting the flame from gusts.
What is the best value for a high-heat fire pit?
Mid-range gas fire pits often provide the best balance of heat output, durability, and affordability. Avoid overly cheap models that may lack heat efficiency or durability, and instead invest in reputable brands with good reviews. Look for warranties and customer support to ensure long-term value.