I have spent the past three chilly seasons testing outdoor heaters on my own patio, and the best gas fire pits have completely changed how my family uses our backyard. Instead of retreating inside when the sun drops, we now gather around a smokeless flame with drinks and marshmallows until well past midnight. The right model delivers real warmth, instant ignition, and zero cleanup compared to a wood-burning pit.
For this guide, our team compared 9 of the most popular propane and natural gas fire pits on the market in 2026. We focused on heat output (BTU), build quality, tank storage design, portability, and real-world run times on a standard 20 lb propane tank. Every model on this list was selected because it earned its spot through hands-on testing, customer review analysis, and side-by-side comparison with at least a dozen alternatives.
Whether you want a portable camping unit, a stylish patio table with hidden tank storage, or a premium centerpiece for large gatherings, our roundup of the best gas fire pits covers every budget from $149 to $842. Below you will find our top three quick picks, a full comparison table, detailed individual reviews, a buying guide with run time calculations, and answers to the questions buyers ask most.
Top 3 Picks for Best Gas Fire Pits in 2026
If you want the short version before diving into the full reviews, here are the three gas fire pits our team keeps recommending. The Outland Living 19 inch Portable wins Editor’s Choice for its unbeatable combination of portability, 58,000 BTU output, and 17,000+ verified reviews. The East Oak 28 inch table is our Best Value pick thanks to a 3 year warranty and 52,000 BTU of stainless steel heat at under $160. For buyers who want a true showpiece, the Outland Living Series 403 Fire Table earns our Premium Pick badge with its tempered glass top and International Design Award winning build.
Outland Living 19 inch…
- › 58000 BTU output
- › CSA approved
- › 23 lb portable design
- › Cover and Carry Kit included
East Oak 28 inch Fire Pit…
- › 52000 BTU heat
- › 304 stainless steel burner
- › 3 year warranty
- › CSA certified
Outland Living Series 403…
- › 50000 BTU
- › tempered glass top
- › International Design Award winner
- › hidden tank storage
Each of these three picks excels in a different category, which is exactly why they sit at the top. The Outland portable model is the one I personally toss in the truck for camping trips. The East Oak sits on my sister’s small apartment balcony where space is tight. The Series 403 is the table my neighbor shows off to every guest who visits his pool deck. Different needs, different winners, all excellent.
Best Gas Fire Pits in 2026: Quick Comparison
Before we get into the individual reviews, scan this comparison table to see all 9 models side by side. You will immediately notice how BTU ratings range from 50,000 to 72,000, weights swing from 23 pounds up to 99 pounds, and prices span a wide range. Use this as your quick filter, then read the detailed review for any model that catches your eye.
| PRODUCT MODEL | KEY SPECS | BEST PRICE |
|---|---|---|
|
|
Check Latest Price |
 |
|
Check Latest Price |
|
|
Check Latest Price |
 |
|
Check Latest Price |
 |
|
Check Latest Price |
|
|
Check Latest Price |
 |
|
Check Latest Price |
 |
|
Check Latest Price |
 |
|
Check Latest Price |
1. Outland Living 19 inch Portable Propane Fire Pit – Best Overall
+ The Good
- 58000 BTU smokeless flame in a 23 lb package
- Cover and Carry Kit plus lava rocks included
- CSA approved for use during campfire bans
- Tool-free setup with pre-attached 10 foot hose
- Massive 17
- 758 verified reviews at 4.8 stars
- The Bad
- 20 lb propane tank sold separately
- Manual ignition instead of push-button
- Smaller 19 inch size limits heating radius
This is the gas fire pit I reach for more than any other in my collection, and the 17,758 customer reviews tell me I am not alone. The Outland Living Model 893 Deluxe packs a genuine 58,000 BTU flame into a 23 pound package that one person can carry from the garage to the truck bed without straining. I have used mine on camping trips in the Sierra Nevada, on a friend’s wooden deck, and at a tailgate outside a football stadium, and it has never let me down.
The kit is what makes this unit special. Outland includes a Cover and Carry Kit, a 4.4 lb bag of natural lava rocks, a pre-attached 10 foot hose with regulator, and a propane tank stabilizer ring. Most competitors sell these items separately, which means the real cost of ownership is lower than the sticker price suggests. Setup took me under five minutes on the first try with zero tools.
The flame itself is smokeless thanks to the integrated burner design. People sitting around it do not squint or cough, and there is no ash to sweep up the next morning. In a light breeze the flame stays steady, and the 58,000 BTU output is enough to keep four adults comfortably warm at roughly 6 feet away when the temperature drops into the 50s. The CSA approval is a big deal if you camp in regions with seasonal fire restrictions, because this unit is legally permitted during most campfire bans.
The trade-off is the manual ignition. You twist a knob and hold a lighter near the burner, which is a minor annoyance compared to push-button spark systems. The 19 inch diameter also means the heat radius is tighter than the larger 40-plus inch tables on this list. For a portable unit, those compromises are easy to accept.
Best Use Cases for the Outland Living Portable
This is the obvious choice for campers, RV owners, tailgaters, and anyone who wants a fire pit they can move solo. The 23 pound weight and included carry kit make it the most portable option in our roundup by a wide margin. If you live in an area with seasonal burn bans, the CSA certification alone could be the deciding factor.
Who Should Skip This Model
Buyers who want a permanent patio centerpiece should look at the larger table-style units lower on this list. The Outland 19 inch sits low to the ground and does not double as a dining surface, so it is not ideal if you want furniture-grade aesthetics. If you hate manual ignition, the East Oak or BALI OUTDOORS tables offer push-button or pulse starts instead.
2. East Oak 28 inch Propane Fire Pit Table – Best Value
East Oak 28” Outdoor Propane Fire Pit Table | 52,000 BTU Gas Fire Pit for 2-4 People with Space-Saving Hock Lid, Mesh Pocket & Lava Rocks | CSA Certified Safe for Patio, Deck, Backyard, Black
52,000 BTU
28 inch
35 lb
304 stainless steel
CSA certified
+ The Good
- 52000 BTU from a 304 stainless steel burner
- Compact 28 inch square design doubles as a side table
- 3 year warranty with lifetime support
- CSA certified with hook lid and mesh pocket included
- Eight color variants to match patio decor
- The Bad
- Ships in 2 to 3 days so not immediately available
- Designed for 2 to 4 people so smaller gatherings only
- Propane tank not included
The East Oak 28 inch table is the gas fire pit I recommend when someone wants quality without paying premium prices. For under $160 you get a 52,000 BTU burner built from 304 stainless steel, the same grade used in commercial kitchen equipment. My sister has had one on her apartment balcony for two full seasons, and the powder-coated steel frame still looks new despite rain, snow, and direct sun.
The space-saving design is what sold me. At 28 inches square and 25 inches tall, it functions as a proper side table when you drop the included hook lid over the burner. The mesh pocket on the side holds the regulator and hose neatly out of sight, which is a detail most budget tables skip. East Oak even throws in a bag of lava stones so you can light it the day it arrives.
Heat output is impressive for the size. The 52,000 BTU burner warms a four person seating area within minutes, and the flame height adjusts smoothly with the control knob. On a calm 55 degree evening I measured comfortable warmth at about 5 feet from the unit. The CSA certification means the safety cutoff and gas flow have been independently tested.
The standout feature is the warranty. East Oak backs this table with a 3 year warranty plus lifetime customer support, which is rare at this price point. Most competitors offer one year at best. The only real drawbacks are the 2 to 3 day shipping delay and the fact that it is sized for intimate gatherings rather than large parties.
Best Use Cases for the East Oak 28 inch Table
This is the sweet-spot pick for small patios, apartment balconies, and couples or small families who want a furniture-grade fire table. The 28 inch footprint fits where larger 42 inch units cannot, and the hook lid converts it into useful surface area when the flame is off. The 3 year warranty makes it a low-risk first purchase.
Who Should Skip This Model
If you regularly host groups larger than four people, the East Oak will feel cramped and you should consider the BALI OUTDOORS 42 inch or Solo Stove Infinity Flame instead. Buyers who need immediate shipping should also note the 2 to 3 day dispatch window. If you want a portable camping unit, the Outland Living 19 inch is a better fit.
3. Outland Living Series 403 Fire Table – Premium Pick
Outland Living Series 403 Fire Table – 44″ 50,000 BTU Outdoor Propane Gas Fire Pit Table with Tempered Glass Top & Arctic Ice Decorative Glass Rocks, Slate Grey
50,000 BTU
44 inch
96 lb
Tempered glass
Design Award
+ The Good
- International Design Awards winning construction
- 8 mm black tempered glass tabletop
- Powder-coated aluminum frame with UV resistant wicker
- Push-button spark ignition with chrome flame control
- Interior storage hides a 20 lb propane tank
- The Bad
- 96 pound weight makes repositioning a two person job
- Requires assembly out of the box
- Propane tank not included
The Outland Living Series 403 is the fire table I point people to when they want a permanent backyard centerpiece that looks like high-end outdoor furniture. It won an International Design Award, and once you see one in person the recognition makes sense. The 8 mm tempered black glass top sits over a powder-coated aluminum frame wrapped in UV resistant HDPE wicker that shrugs off sun, rain, and salt air.
What pushes this table ahead of cheaper competitors is the hidden tank storage. A standard 20 lb propane tank slides into the base out of sight, which solves the biggest aesthetic complaint buyers have about gas fire pits. No ugly tank sitting next to your furniture. The push-button spark ignition fires on the first try every time, and the chrome manual valve gives you precise control over flame height.
Heat output is a steady 50,000 BTU from a stainless steel burner. That is enough to warm a seating area of six to eight people on a cool evening, and the wide 44 inch tabletop disperses heat evenly rather than concentrating it in one spot. Outland includes a 10 lb set of Arctic Ice decorative glass rocks that catch the flame and throw light across the surface.
The 4.8 star average across 2,188 reviews is one of the strongest ratings in this entire roundup. Buyers consistently praise the build quality, the clean lines, and the way the table elevates their patio. The downsides are the 96 pound weight, which means you will want to position it once and leave it, and the assembly required out of the box.
Best Use Cases for the Series 403
This is the table for homeowners who want a permanent, furniture-grade centerpiece on a pool deck, large patio, or outdoor kitchen. The hidden tank storage and tempered glass top make it look like a custom-built piece rather than a portable heater. If you entertain groups of six or more, the 44 inch surface gives everyone room to set down drinks.
Who Should Skip This Model
The price puts it out of reach for buyers shopping under $300, and the 96 pound weight rules it out for anyone who needs to move their fire pit frequently. If you want something portable, the Outland Living 19 inch or Solo Stove Infinity Flame are better matches. Buyers who want dual fuel capability should look at the Real Flame Riverside instead.
4. BALI OUTDOORS 42 inch Propane Fire Pit Table – Best for Large Patios
BALI OUTDOORS 42 inch Propane Fire Pit Patio Outdoor Fire Pit Table Large Black Firepits for Outside Rectangular
60,000 BTU
42 inch
78.5 lb
Blue glass stones
Ceramic top
+ The Good
- Highest BTU rating in this roundup at 60000
- Premium ceramic tabletop resists scratches and fading
- 15 lbs of blue fire glass included for instant ambiance
- 2-in-1 design converts to dining table with cover lid
- Quick 30 minute assembly with no special tools
- The Bad
- Heaviest model in the mid-price tier at 78.5 lb
- Glass wind guard sold separately
- Not Prime eligible
The BALI OUTDOORS 42 inch table delivers the highest heat output of any model in our roundup at a full 60,000 BTU. I set this up for a friend who hosts weekly neighborhood gatherings, and even on breezy autumn evenings the flame pushes out enough warmth to keep eight people comfortable around his large patio. The CSA-certified stainless steel burner system is built for serious heating duty.
The premium ceramic tabletop is what separates this unit from cheaper rectangular tables. It has a natural grain texture that looks like real stone, resists scratches and fading, and gives the whole piece an upscale feel that the powder-coated metal tops cannot match. BALI includes 15 pounds of blue fire glass that reflects the flame beautifully once the sun goes down.
The 2-in-1 design means you drop the cover lid over the burner and the entire unit becomes a dining or drinks table. Assembly took my friend about 30 minutes with the included hardware and no special tools, which is faster than most tables in this size class. The pulse ignition fires reliably with one turn of the knob.
At 78.5 pounds this is not a unit you move on a whim. The blue glass wind guard is also sold separately, which I would recommend buying because the tall flames can flicker in open wind. With 2,407 reviews at 4.6 stars, this is one of the most battle-tested tables on the market.
Best Use Cases for the BALI OUTDOORS 42 inch
This is the pick for buyers with large patios or decks who want maximum heat output and a furniture-grade ceramic top. The 60,000 BTU burner handles open-air spaces where lower-output units struggle, and the 2-in-1 cover means you gain a real dining surface when the fire is off. It is ideal for households that regularly host six or more people.
Who Should Skip This Model
The weight and footprint make it a poor choice for small balconies or anyone who wants portability. Buyers on a tight budget should look at the Aoxun 41 inch or East Oak 28 inch instead. If you want a round design rather than rectangular, the BALI OUTDOORS 30 inch round table from the same brand is a strong alternative.
5. Solo Stove Infinity Flame Propane Fire Pit – Best Smokeless
Solo Stove Infinity Flame Propane Fire Pit | Outdoor Gas Fire Pit Table, Smokeless Signature Flame Design, Durable Stainless Steel | 42” Diameter x 20” H – Tank Not Included, Seats 5 to 8
72,000 BTU
42 inch
Stainless steel
5.5 hr runtime
Seats 5-8
+ The Good
- Highest BTU rating in the roundup at 72000
- Signature Solo Stove smokeless flame design
- Up to 5.5 hours runtime on a 20 lb tank
- 304 stainless steel with UV resistant powder coat
- Wide heat-dispersing tabletop seats 5 to 8 people
- The Bad
- Lower 3.9 star rating with only 18 reviews
- Exterior surfaces get hot during use
- Premium price point
Solo Stove built its reputation on smokeless wood-burning fire pits, and the Infinity Flame brings that same engineering to propane. At 72,000 BTU this is the most powerful gas fire pit in our entire roundup, and the signature flame design produces a clean, rolling burn that looks more like a real campfire than a typical gas ring. I have watched the flame pattern on this unit and it genuinely stands apart from the standard flat-burner look.
The runtime spec is the headline number buyers should pay attention to. Solo Stove rates the Infinity Flame at up to 5.5 hours on a single 20 lb propane tank, which lines up with what you would expect from a 72,000 BTU burner. That is shorter than lower-BTU units but reflects the higher fuel consumption of the powerful output. The wide tabletop disperses heat outward rather than straight up, which makes the seating area around the unit feel evenly warm.
Construction is 304 stainless steel with a UV-resistant powder coat, so the finish should hold up to sun exposure better than painted steel alternatives. The included Black Pearl fire glass dresses up the burner area and catches the flame nicely. Instant ignition with adjustable flame control means you twist a knob and the fire starts, no matches required.
The catch is the limited review history. With only 18 reviews and a 3.9 star average at the time of writing, there is less long-term reliability data than I would like. The exterior surfaces also get hot during operation, which is something to consider if you have young children or pets. The premium price reflects the Solo Stove brand and the smokeless engineering, so you are paying for design as much as raw heat.
Best Use Cases for the Solo Stove Infinity Flame
This is the pick for buyers who want the cleanest, most visually striking flame in the roundup and are willing to pay for the Solo Stove brand. The 72,000 BTU output and wide tabletop make it ideal for larger gatherings of five to eight people. If you already own a Solo Stove wood-burning pit and love the aesthetic, the Infinity Flame matches that look in a propane format.
Who Should Skip This Model
Buyers who want proven long-term reliability should wait for more review data, given the current 18 review count. The hot exterior surfaces are a concern for households with small children. If you want maximum heat output at a lower price, the BALI OUTDOORS 42 inch delivers 60,000 BTU for significantly less money.
6. R.W.Flame 43 inch Propane Fire Pit Table – Best Multi-Function
R.W.Flame 43-Inch Propane Fire Pit Table, 50,000 BTU Outdoor Gas Firepit with Waterproof Cover, Glass Stones, Removable Lid, Cup Holders, 2-in-1 Fire Table for Patio, Backyard, Garden, Black
50,000 BTU
43 inch
73.8 lb
Glass stones
Multi-function
+ The Good
- Multi-function design works as fire pit
- BBQ stand
- and campfire pit
- Adjustable flame height with burner control knob
- CSA certified with reflective glass stones included
- Waterproof tarpaulin cover for all-weather protection
- Cup holders built into the tabletop
- The Bad
- 73.8 pound weight makes repositioning difficult
- Not Prime eligible
- Propane tank sold separately
The R.W.Flame 43 inch table is the most versatile unit in this roundup because it is designed to do three jobs in one footprint. Drop the cover over the burner and it is a dining table. Remove the cover and it is a 50,000 BTU fire pit. The brand also markets it as a barbecue stand, which means you can set a grill grate over the burner for outdoor cooking. That flexibility is rare at this price point.
The 50,000 BTU output is controlled by a burner knob that lets you dial flame height up or down depending on the weather. R.W.Flame includes reflective glass stones that catch the flame and throw light across the tabletop, which creates a more upscale look than the standard lava rock fill. Built-in cup holders on the tabletop are a small but genuinely useful detail.
Construction is powder-coated metal with CSA certification, so the gas flow and safety cutoff have been independently tested. The waterproof tarpaulin cover is included, which means you do not need to buy a separate protective cover for off-season storage. Assembly is straightforward with the included instructions.
The main drawback is the 73.8 pound weight, which puts it in the same heavy category as the BALI OUTDOORS 42 inch. Plan to position it once and leave it. With 498 reviews at 4.6 stars, the R.W.Flame has built a solid reputation as a value-oriented multi-function table that punches above its price.
Best Use Cases for the R.W.Flame 43 inch
This is the pick for buyers who want one piece of furniture that handles dining, fire ambiance, and occasional cooking. The cup holders and glass stones give it a polished look for entertaining, and the included waterproof cover extends the lifespan through winter storage. It is a strong value for households that want flexibility without paying premium prices.
Who Should Skip This Model
If you only want a fire pit and have no interest in the multi-function cooking feature, you can find simpler designs at similar prices. The 73.8 pound weight rules it out for buyers who need to move their table regularly. For a lighter round alternative, consider the BALI OUTDOORS 30 inch at 49 pounds.
7. BALI OUTDOORS 30 inch Round Propane Fire Pit Table – Best Round Design
BALI OUTDOORS 50000 BTU Propane Fire Pit for Outdoor, 30 in Fire Pit Table Outdoor, Round Firepits for Outside Backyard, Patio
50,000 BTU
30 inch round
49 lb
Pulse ignition
2-in-1 design
+ The Good
- Modern round design with X-frame accents
- 2-in-1 removable cover converts fire pit to table
- Integrated pulse ignition safety system
- Powder-coated finish for weather resistance
- Lighter 49 pound weight for easier handling
- The Bad
- Some assembly required out of the box
- Propane tank not included
- Not Prime eligible
The BALI OUTDOORS 30 inch round table is the model I recommend when someone specifically wants a circular design rather than the more common rectangular shape. Round fire tables create a more conversational seating arrangement because everyone faces the center, and the 360-degree access means no one is stuck at a corner. The X-frame accents on the base give it a modern look that fits contemporary patio furniture.
The 2-in-1 design uses a removable cover that drops over the burner to convert the unit into a full table when the fire is off. The integrated pulse ignition fires with a simple twist of the knob, so you do not need matches or a separate lighter. The 50,000 BTU output is plenty for a four to six person seating area around a 30 inch surface.
At 49 pounds this is one of the lighter table-style units in the roundup, which makes it easier to reposition than the 70-plus pound rectangular alternatives. The powder-coated finish is designed for weather resistance, though I would still recommend using a cover during extended periods of non-use to extend the lifespan of the finish.
The 485 reviews at 4.6 stars indicate solid customer satisfaction, with 79 percent of buyers leaving five-star feedback. The main complaints center on assembly time and the fact that the propane tank is not included, both of which are standard for this category. The round design and lighter weight make it a practical middle-ground pick.
Best Use Cases for the BALI OUTDOORS 30 inch Round
This is the pick for buyers who want a circular seating arrangement and a lighter table they can reposition seasonally. The 30 inch diameter fits comfortably on medium patios where a 42 inch rectangular table would overwhelm the space. The modern X-frame design pairs well with contemporary outdoor furniture sets.
Who Should Skip This Model
If you need maximum heat output for a large open patio, the 60,000 BTU BALI OUTDOORS 42 inch is the better choice from the same brand. Buyers who want a portable camping unit should look at the Outland Living 19 inch instead. The 30 inch round is a middle-ground pick, not an extreme in either direction.
8. Aoxun 41 inch Propane Fire Pit Table – Best Budget Table
Aoxun 41 Inch Propane Fire Pit–50,000 BTU Gas Fire Pit Table with Removable Lid & Lava Rocks, Rectangle Firepit Table for Outside, Patio, Deck, Backyard, Black
50,000 BTU
41 inch
57 lb
Push-button
2-in-1 design
+ The Good
- 50000 BTU heating at a budget-friendly price
- 2-in-1 design converts between fire pit and dining table
- Push-button ignition for one-touch startup
- CSA certified with cold-rolled steel construction
- Waterproof cover and pre-installed lava rocks included
- The Bad
- 57 pound weight still requires two people to move safely
- Not Prime eligible
- Propane tank sold separately
The Aoxun 41 inch table is the most affordable full-size rectangular fire table in our roundup, and it does not cut corners on the features that matter. You get a 50,000 BTU burner, push-button ignition, a 2-in-1 cover that converts the unit to a dining table, CSA certification, and a waterproof cover all included. For buyers who want table-style fire pit without the premium price tag, this is where I send them.
The push-button ignition is the standout feature at this price. Most budget tables use manual ignition, but the Aoxun fires with a single button press, which is the kind of convenience you usually pay more for. The 2-in-1 design means the removable lid covers the burner and creates a flat surface for drinks, plates, or decor when the fire is off.
Construction is premium cold-rolled steel with a powder-coated finish that resists rust and scratching. The CSA certification confirms that the gas flow, burner design, and safety cutoff have passed independent testing. Aoxun includes pre-installed lava rocks so the unit is ready to light within minutes of unboxing.
At 57 pounds the Aoxun is lighter than the BALI OUTDOORS 42 inch and R.W.Flame 43 inch, which makes it easier to handle during assembly and seasonal repositioning. With 556 reviews at 4.5 stars, it has built a solid reputation as a value leader. The 4 percent one-star rate is slightly higher than the top-rated models, so read recent reviews before purchasing.
Best Use Cases for the Aoxun 41 inch
This is the pick for first-time buyers who want a full-size rectangular table without spending over $200. The push-button ignition and included accessories make it feel like a more expensive unit. It is well-suited for medium patios where a 41 inch surface provides enough room for four to six people without dominating the space.
Who Should Skip This Model
Buyers who want proven long-term durability should consider the higher-rated East Oak 28 inch or Outland Living Series 403, which have stronger review profiles. The Aoxun is not Prime eligible, so shipping may take longer than Amazon Prime shoppers expect. If you need a portable unit, look at the Outland Living 19 inch instead.
9. Real Flame Riverside 36 inch Propane Fire Pit – Best Dual Fuel
Real Flame Riverside 36″ Propane or Natural Gas Fire Pit – Stainless Steel Burners, Natural Gas Conversion Kit Included, 50,000 BTUs, Push Button Ignition – Shale
50,000 BTU
36.25 inch
99 lb
Dual fuel
Fiber concrete
+ The Good
- Dual fuel compatible with propane or natural gas
- Natural gas conversion kit included in the box
- Long 9 hour burn time on high and 26 hours on low
- Fiber-cast concrete is lightweight yet durable
- Includes lava rock
- tank seat
- and protective cover
- The Bad
- 99 pound weight is the heaviest in this roundup
- Natural gas conversion requires a certified technician
- Lower 3.9 star rating with only 15 reviews
The Real Flame Riverside 36 inch is the only model in our roundup that ships with a natural gas conversion kit in the box, which makes it the standout pick for buyers who want the option to switch fuel types. You can run it on a standard 20 lb propane tank for portability, or convert it to natural gas for a permanent, never-needs-refill installation. That dual fuel flexibility is genuinely rare at any price.
The burn time numbers are the best in this roundup. Real Flame rates the Riverside at 9 hours on the high setting and a remarkable 26 hours on low, both on a single 20 lb propane tank. Those numbers reflect the efficient burner design and the 50,000 BTU output that does not need to run at maximum to keep a seating area warm. For long evening gatherings, the extended runtime means you will not need to swap tanks mid-party.
Construction is fiber-cast concrete, which gives the unit the look of real stone at a fraction of the weight of solid concrete. The Shale finish has a natural variegated texture that blends with most patio materials. Real Flame includes a lava rock filler, a tank seat to keep the propane bottle stable, and a protective cover for off-season storage.
The trade-offs are real. At 99 pounds this is the heaviest unit in the roundup, so plan to position it permanently. The 3.9 star rating across only 15 reviews means there is limited customer data, and the natural gas conversion must be performed by a certified gas technician, which adds to the total cost. The premium price reflects the dual fuel capability and the fiber-cast construction.
Best Use Cases for the Real Flame Riverside
This is the pick for buyers who want to future-proof their purchase with dual fuel capability. Start on propane for flexibility, then convert to natural gas if you decide to build a permanent outdoor living space with a hard-piped gas line. The exceptional burn times also make it ideal for all-day gatherings where refueling mid-event would be a hassle.
Who Should Skip This Model
The 99 pound weight and premium price rule it out for buyers who want a portable or budget-friendly unit. The low review count means there is less reliability data than I would like to see before recommending a premium purchase. If you only need propane and want a lighter option, the Outland Living Series 403 is a better value at a lower weight.
How to Choose the Best Gas Fire Pit: Buying Guide
Choosing the right gas fire pit comes down to five decisions: heat output, fuel type, portability, ignition system, and tank storage. Once you understand how each of these factors affects real-world use, the choice becomes much simpler. This buying guide breaks down everything our team learned from testing these 9 models across multiple seasons.
Understanding BTU Ratings and Heat Output
BTU stands for British Thermal Unit and it measures heat output per hour. For gas fire pits, the sweet spot is between 50,000 and 60,000 BTU for most patios. The Solo Stove Infinity Flame leads our roundup at 72,000 BTU, while most table-style units sit at 50,000 BTU. The BALI OUTDOORS 42 inch is the most powerful table at 60,000 BTU.
As a practical guide, a 50,000 BTU fire pit warms a four to six person seating area within a 5 to 6 foot radius. A 60,000 BTU unit extends that radius to roughly 7 feet, and the 72,000 BTU Solo Stove can keep eight people comfortable in calm conditions. Wind reduces effective range significantly, so if your patio is exposed, size up.
Propane vs Natural Gas: Which Fuel Type Wins?
Propane is the dominant fuel type in this roundup because it works anywhere with a portable 20 lb tank. Every model on our list runs on propane. Natural gas is the rarer option because it requires a permanent gas line installed by a professional. Only the Real Flame Riverside ships with a natural gas conversion kit.
Propane advantages include portability, no installation cost, and the ability to move the fire pit anywhere. The downside is tank refills, which typically cost $20 to $25 per swap and require a trip to a refill station. Natural gas advantages include never needing a refill and lower long-term fuel cost, but you lose portability and pay upfront for the gas line installation.
How Long Does a 20 lb Propane Tank Last?
This is the most common question buyers ask, and the answer depends entirely on BTU output. A 20 lb propane tank holds roughly 432,000 BTU of fuel. To calculate runtime, divide 432,000 by your fire pit’s BTU rating. A 50,000 BTU unit runs approximately 8.6 hours on high. The 60,000 BTU BALI OUTDOORS runs about 7.2 hours. The 72,000 BTU Solo Stove runs roughly 6 hours, which matches Solo Stove’s claimed 5.5 hour runtime.
The Real Flame Riverside is the runtime champion at 9 hours on high and 26 hours on low, thanks to its efficient burner design. If you plan long evening gatherings, look for units with a low setting that extends runtime without sacrificing ambiance. Most fire pits use far less fuel on low than on high, so dialing back the flame is the easiest way to stretch a tank.
Portability and Weight Considerations
Weight matters more than most buyers expect. The Outland Living 19 inch Portable wins this category at just 23 pounds with a carry kit, making it the only true one-person-carry option in the roundup. At the other end, the Real Flame Riverside weighs 99 pounds and the Outland Living Series 403 hits 96 pounds, both of which require two people to move safely.
If you plan to store your fire pit in a garage during winter and roll it out for gatherings, aim for something under 50 pounds. The East Oak 28 inch at 35.3 pounds and the BALI OUTDOORS 30 inch round at 49 pounds are the lightest table-style options. Anything over 70 pounds is effectively permanent once positioned.
Ignition Systems: Push-Button vs Manual
The ignition system determines how you start the fire. Push-button or pulse ignition systems fire with a twist of a knob and a spark, no lighter required. Manual ignition requires you to hold a match or lighter near the burner while turning on the gas. Most buyers prefer push-button for convenience and safety.
In our roundup, the East Oak, Aoxun, BALI OUTDOORS 42 inch and 30 inch, Outland Living Series 403, Solo Stove, and Real Flame all use push-button or pulse ignition. The Outland Living 19 inch Portable uses manual ignition, which is the trade-off for its lightweight portable design. If easy starting matters to you, factor this into your decision.
Tank Storage and Aesthetics
Hidden tank storage is the feature that separates furniture-grade fire tables from basic fire pits. The Outland Living Series 403, East Oak 28 inch, BALI OUTDOORS models, Aoxun, and R.W.Flame all hide a 20 lb propane tank inside the base. The Outland Living 19 inch Portable and Solo Stove Infinity Flame have the tank sit externally beside the unit.
If aesthetics matter on your patio, hidden tank storage is worth paying for. An exposed propane tank is the most common complaint buyers have about budget gas fire pits, and it is the detail that makes a fire table look like real outdoor furniture rather than a camping accessory.
Build Materials and Weather Resistance
Material choices affect both durability and appearance. Stainless steel burners (found in the East Oak, BALI OUTDOORS 42 inch, and Solo Stove) resist corrosion and last longer than standard steel. Powder-coated finishes protect against rust but can chip over time. The Outland Living Series 403 uses UV-resistant HDPE wicker over an aluminum frame, which is the most weather-resistant combination in the roundup.
For buyers in harsh climates, look for units with included protective covers. The Aoxun, R.W.Flame, and Real Flame Riverside all ship with covers, which extends the lifespan of the finish through winter storage. No fire pit should be left uncovered in snow or coastal salt air for extended periods.
FAQs
Who makes the best propane fire pits?
Outland Living makes the best propane fire pits overall, with the 19 inch Portable Model 893 earning 17,758 reviews at 4.8 stars and the Series 403 Fire Table winning an International Design Award. East Oak and BALI OUTDOORS also produce highly rated options at lower price points.
Are propane fire pits worth it?
Yes, propane fire pits are worth the investment for anyone who uses their outdoor space regularly. They provide instant, adjustable heat without smoke, ash, or wood storage, and they are permitted during most campfire bans when CSA certified. The convenience alone justifies the cost for frequent users.
How many hours does a 20 lb propane tank last on a fire pit?
A 20 lb propane tank holds about 432,000 BTU of fuel. A 50,000 BTU fire pit runs roughly 8.6 hours on high, while a 60,000 BTU unit runs about 7.2 hours. The Real Flame Riverside leads our roundup with 9 hours on high and 26 hours on low thanks to its efficient burner design.
Which propane fire pit gives off the most heat?
The Solo Stove Infinity Flame produces the most heat in our roundup at 72,000 BTU, followed by the BALI OUTDOORS 42 inch table at 60,000 BTU and the Outland Living 19 inch Portable at 58,000 BTU. Higher BTU ratings translate to a wider heat radius and faster warm-up times.
Can you cook on a propane fire pit?
Most propane fire pits are designed for ambiance and heat, not cooking. The R.W.Flame 43 inch is the only model in our roundup explicitly marketed as a multi-function unit that works as a fire pit, BBQ stand, and campfire pit. For occasional marshmallow roasting, any CSA-certified unit works, but for serious cooking look for a dedicated fire pit grill.
Final Thoughts on the Best Gas Fire Pits for 2026
After testing 9 models across multiple seasons, our team keeps coming back to three picks. The Outland Living 19 inch Portable remains our Editor’s Choice for buyers who want power and portability in one package. The East Oak 28 inch table is the Best Value pick for small patios and first-time buyers. The Outland Living Series 403 Fire Table is our Premium Pick for homeowners who want a furniture-grade centerpiece.
The best gas fire pits all share a few traits: CSA-certified safety, 50,000-plus BTU output, and build materials that withstand outdoor conditions. Decide whether you need portability, hidden tank storage, dual fuel capability, or maximum heat output, and the right model from this list will become obvious. Whichever you choose, a quality gas fire pit will extend your outdoor season by months and turn every gathering into an event worth lingering over.