Let’s face it, when it gets cold outside, it’s hard to want to do anything other than stay indoors. But considering our current COVID reality, it might be nice to get out and see some friends outdoors this winter. Which means we’re going to need other ways to stay warm. This is where a fire pit can be convenient. But what if you don’t want to wait for wood logs to catch fire or even mess around with starting a fire? What if it was as simple as pressing a button? That’s where propane fire pits can make all the difference.
Similarly, your gas grill is powered by a propane tank; the same can be done for a fire pit. This makes for a much easier set-up and activation than a wood-based fire pit and saves you and your clothes from smelling like a bonfire. In fact, the process is all around much easier and can even be warmer than a wood fire. The trade-off is that propane fire pits tend to be a little bit more expensive. But if you’re willing to invest, you might find yourself spending lots and lots of time outdoors (even when it’s cold out).
With that in mind, here are eight of our favorite outdoor gas fire pits to keep you warm, cozy, and social this winter.
1. Outland Living Fire Table 401 Series Propane Fire Pit
Those looking to splurge on a really impressive propane fire pit should consider the Outland Living Fire Table 401 Series. Offered in a variety of different colors, this rectangle-style propane fire pit not only looks great in any space but provides 50,000 BTU’s worth of heat from it’s 44″ long and 32″ wide table. Tempered glass, arctic ice glass rocks, and chrome accents allow for more elegant touches, while the easy to adjust handle makes flame adjustment a breeze.
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2. SNAN Propane Fire Pit
With its square design and striking looks, the SNAN Propane Fire Pit is a great mid-sized (and mid-priced!) fire pit that’s a great option to consider for those looking to upgrade their existing setup or spend a bit more out of the gate for something nicer. Capable of producing 50,000 BTUs worth of heat, the 32-inch fire pit is no slouch when it comes to keeping you warm. Additionally, the easy to light knob makes it fast and simple to start feeling the heat.
3. Fire Sense Bellant Woven Cast Propane Fire Pit
Another great fire table option, the Fire Sense Bellant Woven Cast Propane Fire Pit, comes with an included cover to shift it from heater to functional table in (basically) a snap. Measuring 48 inches in overall diameter, the pit is actually made of woven cast aluminum to really spruce up its overall look. With an impressive 50,000 BTUs of heat output, this propane fire pit is sure to keep you nice and warm.
4. Christopher Knight Home Dino Lightweight Concrete Propane Fire Pit
With a no-assembly installation, a stunning design, and a very impressive 50,000 BTU output, this concrete-style propane fire pit from Christopher Knight Home is easily the most attractive-looking propane fire pit on this list. The tank is completely hidden inside the pit itself, which further adds to its entirely no-frills based approach. Set it, hook it up, and start it up; it’s that easy to get a powerful (and warm!) fire pit going in your backyard.
5. Joss & Main Belle Stone Propane Gas Fire Pit
This fire pit from Joss & Main is almost too nice to put outdoors, as it feels like it should be the kind of thing that meets guests by the front door of your home. A truly elegant and extravagant fire pit, it’s certainly a little on the pricier side of things but has a design that’s just gorgeous to look at. The push-button igniter delivers 50,000 BTUs worth of heat while offering a great option for friends and family to gather around.
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6. Outland Firebowl Portable Propane Fire Pit
While it’s not quite a fire pit in the traditional sense, this Outland Firebowl is totally portable and small enough to make it super useful to have on camping trips, with an RV, or even as an option on small patio decks. Even with its smaller size, it’s capable of producing a really impressive 58,000 BTUs, which means it’ll keep you more than warm enough. While it’s not the most attractive-looking option, what it lacks in aesthetics it makes up for in power and size.
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7. Bryndle Root Square Fire Table
Although it’s made from cement and fiberglass, this rustic Root Square Fire Table imitates a stunning wood grain, inspired by tree roots. It works for compact spaces, and the wide rim allows you to place food or drinks around the edge with plenty of space. It has a low and high heat setting, letting you adjust according to your needs, and comes with a rain cover, protecting your table and lava rocks when you’re not using it.
8. Whittier Fire Pit in Gray
The round propane fire pit is mesmerizing with its ribbed exterior and bowl-shaped design. It creates an inviting ambiance in any space, and the concrete material is completely weather-resistant. A perfect way to balance out backyards with too many square or sharp angles, acting as an accent piece that will encourage late-night chats and s’more roasting. A great way to extend the season and spend time outdoors with friends and family.
9. Viejo Fire Table
This elegant propane fire pit can hold everything you need it to, adding an expensive, minimalist vibe to any outdoor setup. You’re sure to earn instant compliments with this propane fire pit complete with black lava rocks that doubles as a piece of art. With a pewter finish, key valve ignition, and substantial tablespace on all four sides, this pit is well worth the investment. It’s relatively low to the ground, making it perfectly cozy to huddle around with loved ones.
10. YeSea Rectangle Propane Fire Pit Table
The combination of glass and wicker make this espresso-colored propane fire pit a refined choice. It’s ideal for those who don’t want an excessively modern look and recreates the warmth of a bonfire ambiance. This functional pit even comes with its own lid so when it’s not in use, you can convert it to a dining or coffee table, as well as serving drinks on it. Shoppers love the glass windscreen that also adds a sense of style, and said that their expectations were exceeded in terms of quality.
11. SUNBURY Outdoor Propane Fire Pit Table
For a fire table that’ll definitely make a statement, consider this roomy and smoke-free option with clean lines from SUNBURY. Although it’s a big piece, the integrated side handle makes it easier to move and use. There are three adjustable flame levels. For a serious upgrade, consider investing in some glass beads, which give this fire table a high-end look. Buyers mention that it gives off plenty of heat for six plus people, and is best for larger patios.
12. AKOYA Outdoor Essentials Concrete Propane Fire Pit Bowl
Most round propane fire pits don’t have a thick enough rim to hold drinks or an ashtray, but this one by AKOYA Outdoor Essentials is more substantial yet still compact enough to fit in smaller backyards or patios. Ignition is activated by a user-friendly push button that allows you to control the flame. One user says there’s a “nice variation in flame size” while another says, “this fire pit really contributes to the Japanese look of our deck.”
13. Hampton Bay Crossridge Antique Bronze Finish Gas Fire Pit
For a classic-looking fire pit that will remain stylish through the decades, consider this steel propane fire pit with an antique-inspired, rubbed bronze finish. The tabletop-style piece is more space-efficient than the larger round and rectangular fire pits available online, letting you maximize your space and have it blend in with other home decor aspects rather than dominate them. Despite the small size, it gives out a high amount of heat (50,000 BTU) without giving off any smoke.
14. Patio Post Square Outdoor Propane Gas Fire Pit Table
This square-shaped fire pit is all about subtle simplicity and function, as it doubles as s surface when the center lid is removed. If you need to access the tank fast, there’s a cabinet-style tank that allows you to do so. The unit itself is equally easy to assemble, and if you’re looking for a solution to chilly nights on a reasonable budget, this is a top-rated choice. However, you might want to cover it in bad weather, since one buyer notes that the lid leaks water around the handle when it rains.
15. Real Flame Ventura Rectangle Fiber-Concrete Propane Fire Pit with Natural Gas Conversion Kit
This durable Ventura concrete fire table offers a lavish look and is available in both brown and gray. It even comes with its own natural gas conversion kit to accommodate a range of outdoor settings. The propane tank is hidden from view, while brown lava rocks add to the warm ambiance. In the case of a storm, it even comes with its own protective vinyl cover. As one shopper puts it, “Buy with confidence, this is a substantial table with impressive flames.”
16. Legacy Heating Rectangular Fire Pit Table With Stainless Steel Burner
This mocha propane fire pit by Legacy Heating features a stainless steel burner and a slatted design. When covered, buyers note that it looks just like a regular table, and has the capacity to sit several people around it. Some customers do wish that there was a gauge on the gas tank. For its unassuming appearance, it gives out a serious amount of heat — 50,000 BTUs, to be exact. Use it as a pit or a dining set when it’s not in use during warm days.
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