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Take your backyard party game to the next level.
Credit:Better Homes & Gardens
So how do you find the best fire pit for you?
Ryan Cunningham, outdoor expert and founder of the website Beyond The Tent, breaks down the options.
With all of that in mind, we tested 18 fire pits and researched other popular choices.
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For more on how we tested fire pits, seeour testing processbelow.
Plus, its easy to control and takes less than two minutes to light.
We love how incredibly easy this fire pit is to set up and use.
We appreciated that we could easily control the Outland Living Mega Fire Pit’s flame with a knob.Credit: Better Homes & Gardens
We could still feel the warmth on our faces sitting 3.5 feet away.
We were incredibly impressed during our tests that this model seems to be truly smokeless.
This fire pit also appears incredibly durable.
The only accessories available are the Mega carry bag for easier transportation and a natural gas conversion kit.
Overall, were impressed with the Outland Living Firebowl 883 Mega fire pit.
Plus, its completely smokeless, which is a huge bonus.
We love the included protective cover that allows us to leave it outside no matter the weather.
The copper stained pretty quickly during two weeks of use.
Plus, the fire pit itself requires two people to move.
It has a sleek appearance that will add to your outdoor decor.
Once set up, we ignited the fire using a small amount of wood, paper, and cardboard.
Overall, it was easy to get started without using any fuel or lighter fluid.
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The fire only emitted a noticeable amount of smoke, but only because our wood was damp.
We noted that the fire provided a generous amount of warmth, even when seated about three feet away.
When we made a larger fire, we could feel it at five feet away.
Credit: Better Homes & Gardens
We had to tilt the fire pit to get any remaining ash.
After two weeks of testing, we noticed ash stains accumulating on the copper.
However, the signs of aging were noticeable in a shorter period than we would have preferred.
Plus, the overall construction looks built-in, enhancing your backyard’s appearance.
You will need to build this pit and it requires heavy lifting.
If you have ample room in your backyard, consider the Necessories' Grand Fire Pit.
Constructing this fire pit was somewhat involved, although we appreciated the smooth delivery.
Getting the fire started was an easy process.
The fire pit produced a generous amount of heat all the way around.
It also has a wide, deep ring that encourages good airflow and keeps the fire going.
We could comfortably use our extendable forks to make s’mores without getting too close to the flames.
This isn’t the best option if you want a fire pit to roast marshmallows.
It was far too heavy for us to transport it inside and into our backyard on our own.
Assembling it took us about an hour, even though the directions said only a half hour.
This was in part because of unclear directions and labeling on all the pieces.
Fortunately, everything inside was packaged nicely.
However, we haven’t run into any issues with stability thus far.
Once all put together, we used propane gas to get it started.
There was only a slight gas smell when we turned it on, but that faded quickly.
The fire pit emitted a lot of heat up to three and four feet away.
Since the heating element is a circle, we could feel it all the way around.
Even though it was a windy day during our testing, the fire still remained lit and provided heat.
On one side of the pit, there is also adjustable heat control which can adjust the flame size.
It performed well and responded nicely to our adjustments.
When not in use, we found this lid could easily convert the fire pit into a coffee table.
We also loved the glass beads that came inside, adding an elegance and reflective aspect to the fire.
Its on the pricier side for a fire pit that isnt smokeless.
It also features a sturdy iron grate that makes for a well-ventilated and thriving fire.
While easy, the setup was more time-consuming than other options we tested.
However, we found the setup easy to complete with detailed instructions and well-marked pieces.
Its the perfect option forbusy weeknightswhen you dont have time to spend waiting for a fire to start.
We would have loved to see another option for the finish, but otherwise we have no complaints.
It burns logs pretty quickly, so you may need to reload it several times.
We could fit six large logs in the pit, but they did burn fairly quickly.
We were impressed with how evenly the fire burned as well.
This fire pit is more for aesthetics than significant warmth due to the size.
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It delivers a clean, smokeless burn and works quietly and in inclement weather.
Instead, use this Firecube to provide warmth and a source of flame for nights under the stars.
It needs to be stored indoors between uses to prevent rust.
Credit: Better Homes & Gardens
If your flame gets too high, you might move your food up without worrying about burning it.
Its truly the best of both worlds and functions well as both a grill and a fire pit.
If youre looking for a wood-burning option, we like theFrontgate Classic Copper Fire Pit.
The fire pits we tested included wood-burning, propane-fueled, and smokeless varieties.
Some also had cooking accessories.
We also removed the ash after each use, and recorded the process and its ease.
After testing, we compared the results to determine which models performed the best.
Propane fire pits are usually smaller in diameter, but the median range is generally 20 inches.
Fire pits come in a range of sizes.
Smaller wood-burning models are generally under 30 inches in diameter, while smokeless options range between 2030 inches.
Propane fire pits are usually smaller in diameter, but the median range is around 20 inches.
They both work well but have a different set of pros and cons.
Wood is a classic for a reasonwith it, you get the crackling sound and the delicious smell.
Propane is instant; you simply turn the dial and youll have fire.
You should also look for a way to remove ash via an ash pan or tray.
Propane fire pits should come with a hose to connect the propane tank.
It should never be under an overhang or in a partially-enclosed space.
The surface it sits on is equally important.
When you’re done, confirm the fire is completely out before you leave, he says.
Lastly, Puukko recommends considering weather conditions before sitting out by the fire.
All big plus points there.
Hampton Bay Tipton 34 in.
Steel Deep Bowl Fire Pit in Oil Rubbed Bronze
TheHampton Bay Tipton 34 in.
However, it was a bit hard to put together and ended up rusting quickly.
For one, its over $200, which is a higher price than most models with similar specs.
Additionally, there were some issues with the construction of the base.
The setup was complicated, and it took a few different tries to tighten and secure the different pieces.
We also liked that it had an outer wall for temperature control that also made it safe for children.
Polywood Round Fire Pit Table
Overall, we really liked thePolywood Round Fire Pit Table.
It had a strong heat output with easy temperature control.
Plus, the modern, chic design went well with our outdoor space.
However, the price was triple that of our splurge pick.
Your Questions, Answered
What pop in of fire pit gives off the most heat?
Generally, though, theyll both keep you pretty warm.
What is the best outdoor fire pit?
This, of course, depends on the way youre using it.
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At the same time, I want it to be portable.
If it’s too big, that simply won’t work.
If youre using afire pit for your backyard, keep to a wood-burning option.
Credit: Better Homes & Gardens
What is a good size fire pit for the backyard?
Again, this depends.
What style of fire pit is safest?
Structure and materials are of course key when looking for a safe fire pit, too.
Lastly, make a plan for where the fire pit will sit in your backyard or at a campsite.
Avoid placing fire pits in flammable areas, such as wooden decks or near thick brush, Kantor says.
She interviewedRyan Cunninghamfrom Beyond the Tent for this article.
What Is BHG Recommends?
Next to all of the products on this list, you may have noticed ourBHG Recommends seal of approval.
In these cases, we use the same testing criteria we use to test the purchased products.
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