Top 10 Portable Fire Pits for Cozy Outdoor Gatherings

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Fire pits add a cozy and inviting atmosphere to any outdoor area, providing just the right amount of warmth for chilly nights.

To help you find the best fire pit for your outdoor space, we tested 28 different options, including wood-burning, smokeless, and propane models, at our homes. We looked at how easy they were to set up and use, how well they heated, controlled smoke, their design, extra features, and overall value. We also got advice from experts on the best ways to set up and safely use a fire pit for the best experience.

First, think about which type of fire pit suits you best. Traditional wood-burning fire pits give you that classic campfire feel, while propane fire pits are great for quick, hassle-free backyard hangouts without needing firewood or dealing with a messy cleanup. Smokeless fire pits can burn wood or pellets in a way that minimizes smoke and campfire odors, or they can burn propane or natural gas for a completely smoke-free experience.

We took our time setting up each fire pit in our own outdoor spaces, using them for six months or more, just like you would in your backyard for evening fires, gatherings, and even roasting marshmallows.

Our Top Picks

• Best Overall:
  Solo Stove Ranger with Stand Portable Outdoor Fire Pit at Amazon $300
• Best for Grilling:
  Snow Peak Takibi Fire and Grill at Amazon $373
• Best Budget:
  Yaheetech Outdoor Fire Pit at Amazon $88
• Best for Camping:
  East Oak 21 Inch Fire Pit at Amazon $187
• Best Propane:
  Heininger Portable Propane Gas Fire Pit at Amazon $140
• Best Wood Burning:
  Hampton Bay Piedmont Steel Fire Pit at Amazon $160
• Best Tabletop:
  Solo Stove Mesa Tabletop Fire Pit at Amazon $80
• Best At-home Portability:
  Tiki Smokeless Fire Pit at Amazon $211
• Best Collapsible:
  Fireside Outdoor Pop-Up Fire Pit at Amazon $119
• Best for Patios:
  Hampton Bay Crossridge Antique Brass Fire Pit at Home Depot $149

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Best Overall

Solo Stove Ranger with Stand Portable Outdoor Fire Pit

Solo Stove offers a range of durable portable fire pits, and after testing several, the Solo Stove Ranger stood out as the best. This sleek, stainless steel fire pit is almost ready to use right out of the box, featuring a sturdy base and a removable ash plate. You’ll need to bring your own wood, but once the fire is going, the design keeps the flames well-contained, making it easy to add more logs while enjoying warmth from the top, bottom, and sides. It generates plenty of heat, yet it’s small and light enough to move around, whether you’re in your backyard or at the beach. While we noticed some smoke from the flames, it’s not entirely smokeless—just low smoke.

The fire pit’s two main pieces fit neatly into the included carrying bag, and we appreciated that there aren’t multiple parts to worry about. When you’re done enjoying the fire, you can easily dump out the ash plate, and the exterior doesn’t get too hot, so you can pack it up and head home once it cools down a bit. If you’re looking for a well-built, functional, and simple fire pit, the Solo Stove Ranger is a great choice.

Benefits:

• Portable for camping or backyard use
• Efficient heating with less smoke

Best for Grilling

Snow Peak Takibi Fire and Grill

We were really impressed with the Snow Peak Takibi Fire & Grill after cooking five meals on it in a backyard. From veggies and turkey burgers to fish and sausages, this fire pit heats and cooks food evenly, making cooking over a fire easy. You can also adjust the grill’s height to control the heat and add wood to the fire without any hassle. The thoughtful design includes a base plate to catch ash and embers, keeping your patio or campsite clean. Setting up the fire pit is straightforward, and it flattens easily to fit into its compact carrying case. The only downside is its 30-pound weight, making it one of the heavier portable fire pits on our list. However, if you want a grill that doubles as a great fire pit and saves space, the Snow Peak Takibi is a must-have.

Benefits:

• Cook meals and enjoy a fire in one unit
• Durable and reliable

Best Budget

Yaheetech Outdoor Fire Pit

The Yaheetech 32-inch Fire Pit comes with everything you need to get started, including a fire poker and spark screen, and it even doubles as a grill, offering great value. While it’s not completely smokeless, it produced less smoke than expected during our tests.

The large bowl holds about eight pieces of wood comfortably. Its rust-resistant finish means it can stay outside safely when not in use.

Assembling the fire pit was easy with the clear instructions, though we needed our own screwdriver. It’s lightweight, so putting it together was no trouble.

Once set up, starting and maintaining a fire was straightforward. We appreciated the fire poker for moving logs and the holes in the bottom that seemed to aid airflow. Although it lacks a removable ash container, the fire pit is light enough to flip over and empty.

The best feature is that it doubles as a grill. You’ll need to build a good fire and let the flames die down, which takes some time and effort. Once the flames are low and the coals are hot, you can grill hot dogs and hamburgers. It’s a nice option, though we wouldn’t replace a dedicated grill with it if you have the space and budget.

Benefits:

• Cost-effective solution for outdoor warmth
• Easy to set up and use

Best for Camping

East Oak 21 Inch Fire Pit

If you’re looking for a portable fire pit for camping trips that’s larger than a hiking option, the East Oak fire pit is a great choice. It was quick and easy to assemble—just a few minutes and no tools were needed. The setup was so simple that we didn’t even need to refer to the instructions. It’s lightweight and easy to carry, making it perfect for on-the-go use. The fire pit appears sturdy enough to handle outdoor conditions, although we haven’t tested it in severe weather.

While we didn’t use it for cooking, it seems like you could easily add a grill grate on top for barbecuing or tailgating. It offers excellent airflow for a clean burn, and the included ashtray makes cleanup a breeze. One downside is that there are no handles, so moving it while it’s burning isn’t safe without heatproof gloves. We also wish it had better airflow controls to adjust between fast and slow burns. Overall, this fire pit is a solid choice for campers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Benefits:

• Great for camping trips
• Convenient to transport and store

Best Propane

Heininger Portable Propane Gas Fire Pit

We love how quickly the Heininger Portable Propane Gas Fire Pit sets up—less than five minutes. It comes with a bag of lava rocks to pour into the bowl, adding a sleek, modern touch. Although it doesn’t come with a carrying bag, it’s lightweight enough to move easily from your backyard to your car, even with the lava rocks in it.

Starting the fire is straightforward with a long-stem lighter or match, and the gas gauge is conveniently located on the side of the base, away from the flames. The 10-foot propane hose allows you to keep the tank safely away from the fire. We found that the heat rises directly from the fire, so you might need to get closer on chilly nights.

One downside is that it took nearly an hour to cool down enough to move safely. However, you won’t have to worry about smoky clothes at the end of the night, as the flames are completely smokeless thanks to the propane fuel.

Benefits:

• Clean and easy to use
• No need for wood

Best Wood Burning

Hampton Bay Piedmont Steel Fire Pit

The Hampton Bay Piedmont Steel Fire Pit is our top pick for traditional wood-burning fire pits. It’s easy to set up and use, holds a lot of wood, and includes useful accessories. While it lacks smoke management features, the mesh screen does a great job of keeping sparks and embers contained. It also comes with an accessory to turn it into a grill.

The fire pit has a classic design that’s simple to assemble. Although the instructions were a bit unclear, relying on diagrams helped, and assembly took about 21 minutes. Once set up, starting and maintaining a fire was straightforward.

The included poker was very useful for stoking the fire and adding more wood. The hook on the poker allowed us to remove and adjust the mesh cover easily. The lid was sturdy and kept sparks inside, but it was light enough to move aside when roasting marshmallows.

The fire pit’s classic and stylish design blends well with outdoor spaces. We especially like its large capacity and the grill feature, which is handy if you’re short on space. Just remember to get a fire pit cover, as leaving it uncovered caused the screen to rust.

Benefits:

• Ideal for large gatherings
• Durable and reliable

Best Tabletop

Solo Stove Mesa Tabletop Fire Pit

If you’re working with a small space or just want something low-key, a tabletop fire pit is a great choice. We found this Solo Stove tabletop fire pit to be our top pick among tabletop options and one of the best fire pits we tested overall. We used it on a patio table, during a camping trip to the Tetons, and at a backyard barbecue. It was quick to set up—just a few minutes—and the instructions were easy to follow. The legs of the stand unfold easily, allowing you to set it up on a table. Its quick setup and takedown make it perfect for traveling.

We could burn dry wood and kindling each time we used it, so you won’t need to buy pricey pellets. We did notice some discoloration inside from soot after the first use, but the outside stayed in good condition. It provided a pleasant amount of warmth without getting too hot, so it was great for playing cards, eating, or just chatting. At around $80, this fire pit offers great value.

Benefits:

• Fits well on small tables or patios
• Easy to maintain and use

Best At-home Portability

Tiki Smokeless Fire Pit

If you’re looking for a fire pit for home use that doesn’t require permanent installation, the Tiki Social Smokeless Fire Pit is our top choice. It took a bit longer to assemble than other models—about 20 minutes. The instructions were clear, but we had some trouble tightening the bolts and ended up using our own tools to get everything secure.

Once assembled, we found the fire pit’s top and bottom don’t attach, making it too bulky to move as a single piece. We recommend setting it up in the spot where you plan to use it in your yard. Starting and maintaining the fire was straightforward, as long as we kept adding wood. True to its name, this fire pit is very smokeless, with only a tiny amount of smoke detected, making it great for small outdoor gatherings.

Benefits:

• Cleaner burning with less smoke
• Ideal for various outdoor settings

Best Collapsible

Fireside Outdoor Pop-Up Fire Pit

Out of all the collapsible fire pits we tested, the Fireside Outdoor Pop-up Fire Pit is the one that really stands out. We loved the lightweight stainless steel construction and the solid base when assembled. It was a bit of a pain to get the steel mesh cover into the legs during assembly but the way the legs, sides and mesh cover come apart for transport is genius.

When set up it’s very stable and can hold several logs burning. It radiates heat from the top, bottom and sides so you’ll be warm. One thing to note is when you disassemble the fire pit you’ll find ash and soot on the base so be prepared for a mess. But once the parts are in the carry bag you won’t have to worry about ash getting everywhere.

Benefits:

• Convenient for travel and storage
• Budget-friendly option

Best for Patios

Hampton Bay Crossridge Antique Brass Fire Pit

The Hampton Bay Crossridge Bronze Gas Fire Pit is perfect for patios and small outdoor spaces where you don’t have room for both a table and a fire pit. We love that it doubles as a table, making it great for spontaneous weeknight fires and weekend relaxation. It’s easy to use and doesn’t leave you smelling like a campfire. During our tests, we were pleased to find that the ledge around the fire pit stayed cool enough to place food, drinks, and other items.

Fueled by propane, this fire pit lights easily, heats evenly, and shuts off quickly. It’s ideal for roasting marshmallows since you can set it to the perfect temperature without needing to build a bed of coals as with a wood fire. Once turned off, you can replace the table insert almost immediately and start using it as a regular table again.

Though only available in an antique bronze finish, it fits well in most rustic outdoor settings. We were initially concerned it might be flimsy, but assembly was quick and straightforward with clear instructions and illustrations. Once assembled, it was sturdy and functioned well both as a table and a fire pit. We needed to purchase a propane tank, but lighting it was as easy as starting a gas grill. Hampton Bay recommends using a screen initially to catch any sparks, but we didn’t notice any sparks and didn’t need the screen after the first use.

After six months of use, the Crossridge has held up well with no noticeable wear or rust, thanks to its protection from harsh weather. It continues to perform excellently for quick fires or weekend relaxation.

One minor issue is the sizable handle on the insert that you remove to access the fire pit. It can be a bit of a nuisance when using the Crossridge as a table. While not a major problem, a smaller or flush handle would make the table more user-friendly.

Benefits:

• Enhances patio aesthetics
• Durable and robust

How We Tested the Fire Pits

Over the past year, we tried out 28 fire pits in various settings like our backyards, patios, and decks. This included different types like smokeless, propane, traditional wood-burning, and tabletop models. We looked at how easy they were to assemble, use, heat performance, smoke control, design, extra features, and overall value.

Ease of Assembly: We timed how long it took to put each fire pit together. We checked if the instructions were clear and if all the necessary tools were included.

Heating Performance: We sat around each fire pit and noted if the heat was comfortable and evenly spread out.

Smoke Control: For wood and pellet-burning fire pits, we tested those labeled as smokeless to see how well they controlled smoke. (Propane fire pits are smokeless, so we didn’t test their smoke control.) We used the recommended firewood or pellets and checked for smoke, noting any that we did see.

Ease of Use: We observed how easy it was to start the fire and keep it going. We followed the provided instructions for wood-burning fire pits, using standard 16-inch firewood, and counted how many logs fit.

Design and Extra Features: We looked at useful features like integrated tables, firewood pokers, lids, or covers, as well as how well they contained sparks. For fire pits with grills, we tested setting up and using the grill by cooking hamburgers or hotdogs.

Cleanup and Storage: After testing, we evaluated how easy it was to clean and store each fire pit. For wood-burning models, we also assessed how hard it was to dispose of the ashes.

Value: We judged the fire pit’s value based on whether its features and performance matched, exceeded, or fell short of its price.

Long-Term Testing: After the initial tests, we continued to use the fire pits for up to six months to check their long-term durability and performance.

What to Look for in a Fire Pit

Size: The size of a fire pit matters mostly if you’re choosing between a very small or a very large model. Smaller wood-burning fire pits are usually under 30 inches across, while smokeless ones range from 20 to 30 inches. Propane fire pits are typically around 20 inches. A 20-inch fire pit is good for up to four people, while a 30-inch model can seat about 10. Tabletop fire pits are much smaller, usually around 6 inches in height and diameter, and don’t provide as much heat as larger models.

Material: Most fire pits are made of steel because it’s heat-resistant, weather-resistant, strong, and durable. Some high-end models use Corten steel, which forms a protective patina over time, or copper, which handles high heat well. The bases might be made from other materials, like stone. Steel can rust, so if your fire pit is made of steel, use a waterproof cover if it’s outside all year.

Fuel Type: Fire pits use either wood or propane. Wood fire pits give you that classic crackling sound and smell, and you can adjust the flame size easily. However, they require more maintenance, and managing smoke and ashes can be a hassle. Propane fire pits ignite instantly with a dial, are easier to use while camping, and have adjustable flame settings. However, they require refilling propane and have a risk of gas leaks. Always ensure your propane connections are tight and check for leaks.

Additional Features: For smokeless fire pits, look for double-walled construction that burns off smoke before it reaches you. Wood-burning pits should have a poker or mesh screen to manage the fire and prevent sparks. A stand helps protect surfaces like decks or grass from heat damage, and an ash pan makes cleanup easier. Propane fire pits should come with a hose to connect to the propane tank. Many fire pits also include a cover or carrying case to protect them from weather or for easy transport.

Safety: Place your fire pit at least 20 feet away from your house and any overhanging trees or plants. It should never be under a roof or in a partially enclosed space. Use a non-flammable surface like stone rather than wood or dry grass. For propane fire pits, use safe materials like lava stone or fire glass. Always have a spark screen and keep a fire extinguisher or water nearby. Make sure the fire is completely out before leaving. Avoid using the fire pit on very windy days for added safety.

FAQs

What is the best type of fire pit to buy?
The best fire pit for you depends on your budget and how you plan to use it. Basic, affordable fire pits are usually made of cast iron and don’t have fancy features. They’re great for enjoying the classic fire experience and roasting marshmallows or hot dogs. If you want to do more advanced cooking, you’ll need to spend more on a fire pit that doubles as an outdoor grill.

Which fire pits give off the most heat?
Most fire pits produce heat, but some are better at it than others. Basic fire pits are cheaper and can provide good heat but often produce a lot of smoke. Smokeless fire pits, designed for better airflow, tend to get hotter. Solo Stove fire pits focus their heat upward, while Breeo pits spread it out more, making you feel warmer around them.

Which smokeless fire pit is the best?
For smokeless performance, Solo Stove fire pits are top-notch. They’re easy to start, produce minimal smoke, and have impressive flames. However, they push heat upwards, so they might not keep a group warm on chilly nights and aren’t meant for cooking big outdoor meals.

Can you put a fire pit on grass?
Yes, but be careful. Make sure the area is level to prevent tipping and protect your grass from heat damage, which can cause discoloration or death of the grass. Place a barrier like patio slabs, a heat shield, or a fire-resistant mat under the pit. Also, move the fire pit around regularly to avoid damage to one spot.

What types of ignitions are there for fire pits?
Fire pits have different ignition systems, from simple to advanced. Basic models require a match to light the gas. Next, spark ignition systems use a battery-operated sparker, so you just push a button. Flame-sensing fire pits have a spark igniter and a sensor to stop gas flow if the flames go out. The most advanced are electronic ignition systems, which also sense flames and can be controlled with a timer, switch, remote, or phone app. These are usually the priciest and need electricity.

Can I cook on my gas fire pit?
It’s generally not recommended to cook on a gas fire pit unless it’s designed for cooking. You can toast marshmallows safely, but cooking other foods may not be appropriate unless the fire pit has specific accessories or features for that purpose.