Types of Fire Pits And Which Is Best For You
Fire Pit Phenomenon: The Dual Purpose Marvel of Modern Backyards
Fire pits are the new backyard essential —serving a dual purpose of functionality and aesthetics.
But the range of fire pits available today can leave anyone furrowing their brows in confusion. I would know because it took a lengthy search and hours of skimming reviews before we finally settled on the fire pit now in our backyard.
The options are almost endless, which could be overwhelming for someone who just wants to get done already with the backyard decor and enjoy their downtime.
Stay with me, though, and you’ll find out the most common types and which would be a better choice for a perfect backyard setup.
Table of content
Topics
4 Common Types of Fire Pits
Wood Buring fire pit
Wood-burning fire pits are the classic, easier to install, and often set in enclosed materials like steel or concrete. It’s a rather popular backyard fire pit setup, mostly because of the nostalgic feelings and memories it invokes. You might also want your children to experience what you have in the past. Considering aesthetics and price, you can get a simple pit that costs under $100 or go all out to build a DIY, more sophisticated design. If you don’t mind getting your hands dirty or keeping things simple and original, you could consider this option.
Pros
- Wood-burning fire pits are practically inexpensive compared to the other options.
- They are the safest and healthiest option to cook over.
- They give off a more traditional vibe that creates a rustic ambiance perfect for outdoor gatherings.
- Smokeless variants of fire pits are available
Cons
- Wood-burning fire pits require more maintenance than others—cleaning up ashes and storing wood can be tedious.
- They tend to produce plenty of heat and smoke that irritates the eyes.
- There’s less control over flame intensity compared to gas options.
Natural Gas fire pit
For those seeking convenience without sacrificing ambiance, gas fire pits are a dream come true. Besides being easy to use, it’s also popular for not inducing any smoke. No smoke, no itchy eyes, and no discomfort. You’ll usually find them connected to a household gas line, and with only a push of a button, you can enjoy a clean and controllable flame— needless to say without the hassle of gathering wood or cleaning up ash.
Pros
- Minimal cleanup and maintenance are required. They are perfect for busy individuals or anyone who prefers a tidy outdoor setup.
- Easily manage precise control over flame size and intensity, unlike the wood pit.
- Pretty much smokeless and generally easy to use.
Cons
- Natural gas may be cheaper than propane, but installation is usually difficult and costly
- Requires connection to a permanent gas line, meaning zero points for portability.
Propane fire pit
Take the convenience of natural gas fire pits, combine it with the portability of the classic traditional fire pit, and you have a propane fire pit. They come in more exotic and luxurious designs like glass forms, usually in a table shape or copper bowl. These self-contained units run on propane tanks, making them easy to set up and move around your outdoor space.
Pros
- Propane fire pits offer clean-burning flames and are ideal for those who want a
fuss-free fire pit experience. - The ignite switch makes it easy to control the fire.
Cons
- They are pretty expensive, both in cost and maintenance.
- Compared to wood-burning and gas fire pits, they produce less heat and provide less warmth.
- They may require additional safety precautions when handling.
Gel Fuel Fire Pit
Fueled by clean-burning alcohol-based gel fuel known as isopropyl gel, they produce a mesmerizing flame without a gas line or electrical hookup. Ideally, they are perfect for adding ambiance to smaller outdoor areas like balconies or patios. Just be sure to stock up on gel fuel canisters, as they have a limited burn time.
Pros
- They are typically smaller and more portable than others, making them ideal for smaller outdoor spaces.
- Produces a clean-burning flame with no smoke, soot, and odor.
Cons
- The fire doesn’t last long—burning for about 2 to 3 hours.
- Gel fuel is expensive and the cost can add up over time.
- Compared to wood or gas fire pits, gel-fuel fire pits may produce less heat.
Different Types of Outdoor Fire Pits By Style/Design
Barbecue Grill Fire Pit
A fire pit with a barbecue grill plate attached to it? Yes, please. Who says you can’t have it all? These are a kind of wood-burning fire pit with sturdy grill plates, so we’re not just pushing it when we say it’s both convenient and often incredibly stylish. One advantage of this design is how easy you can use it to cook foods; you can grill your meat, cook veggies over, roast potatoes, etc. It’s a perfect choice if you’re planning a family barbecue night in your backyard or going camping with a few friends.
Fire Pit Table
Why choose between a dining table and a fire pit when you can have both? Fire pit tables, usually powered by gas or propane, are the definition of aesthetics and functionality, serving as a stylish centerpiece for outdoor entertaining. Whether you are roasting marshmallows or sharing a meal with loved ones, this dual-purpose design creates an inviting atmosphere that is sure to impress. With a variety of sizes and styles available, the question is, how exactly do you want it? A coffee table size, dining table size, or even a small fire pit as a feature to place on top of your existing table? Therefore a fire pit table to suit every outdoor space.
Foldable Fire Pit
Perhaps you’re looking for something lightweight, easy to assemble, on-the-go kind of fire pit, then consider getting a foldable fire pit. These fire pits are made of thin steel or aluminum and can be easily folded down into a compact size, making them ideal for camping trips, beach outings, or other outdoor adventures. They can fit into the trunk of a car or even be carried in a backpack—it’s like taking warmth with you wherever you go. Some models may even include additional features such as cooking grates or mesh screens for added functionality.
Tabletop Fire Pits
Short on space but big on style? Then you may consider tabletop fire pits—the pint- sized solution to your outdoor heating needs. Though they’re more about aesthetics than functionality. So, you may want to go for something else if you live in colder regions. These compact wonders are fueled by gel fuel and can be placed atop of any sturdy surface, from dining tables to coffee tables, instantly elevating your al fresco gatherings. Perfect for intimate gatherings or cozy date nights. Safe to say, tabletop fire pits pack a surprising punch in a petite package.
Chimenea
Chimeneas are the most distinctive fire pit designs that are equally decorative and portable —well, those and their fancier cousins, fire urns. They are a simpler, relatively cheaper variation of a wood-burning fire pit designed to radiate heat in all directions and channel smoke upward through the vent. Compared to the traditional wood- burning fire pit, however, chimenea provides a safer option for outdoor fires; they help contain sparks and embers, reducing the risk of accidental fires.
So, which is best for you?
Generally, the right fire pit for you is ultimately determined by your individual needs and preferences. For example, if you value the experience of tending to a real fire, then a wood-burning fire pit is the best option. If convenience and control are at the top of your list, Gas or Propane fire pits are your best bets. Whichever type you choose, though, a fire pit is sure to become a focal point for relaxation and enjoyment in your outdoor gatherings. A social evening at our place just wouldn’t be the same without one of our fire pits hogging center stage.