Best outdoor fire pits for 2026
Updated June 2026Independently researchedNo paid placement.
The Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0 is our top pick for its near-smokeless burn and durable stainless steel build.
The Outland Living Series 401 is a great runner-up for those who want a portable propane table; the Heininger budget option delivers a huge flame ring, while the Real Flame Sedona offers classic wood-burning charm at a wider diameter.
A fire pit transforms an ordinary backyard into a gathering place, extending outdoor living well into cooler evenings. The key choice is between wood-burning (for the crackle, scent, and lower ongoing cost) and propane (for instant on/off, clean burn, and easier permitting). You will also want to consider diameter, most portable pits measure 18 to 36 inches, while larger models can span close to 50 inches, and whether you prioritize portability, low smoke, or a built-in tabletop. Smoke has become the biggest deal breaker for many buyers. New airflow designs and dual-wall construction can reduce smoke dramatically, but no wood-burning pit is truly smokeless. Propane models eliminate smoke entirely, though they lack the authentic campfire experience. Weight, included accessories (covers, stands, or carry bags), and the quality of spark screens are also worth weighing before you buy.
Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0 Outdoor Fire Pit, Stainless Steel, Low Smoke, 19.5 inches
the near-smokeless crowd-pleaser
4.7out of 5The Bonfire 2.0 uses precision air flow to burn off smoke and creosote, leaving you with a clean, hot flame and very little residue on your clothes. Its 19.5-inch diameter is ideal for 2-4 people, and the stainless steel construction resists rust for years. No spark screen is included, so you will need to buy one separately if you have kids or pets nearby.
Price range: $$
Check price on Amazon →Outland Living Series 401 Brown 21-Inch Portable Propane Gas Fire Pit Table with Cover
the portable propane table pit
4.4out of 5This 21-inch propane fire pit table packs a clean-burning burner into a lightweight, carry-friendly frame that includes a lid and a cover for year-round use. The faux-stone finish looks like real stone but stays cooler to the touch, and the included lava rock conceals the burner for a natural flame effect.
Price range: $$
Check price on Amazon →Heininger 5995 58,000 BTU Portable Propane Outdoor Fire Pit, 47.5-Inch Diameter, Hammered Black
the big-flame budget burner
4.2out of 5With a 58,000 BTU burner and a 47.5-inch ring of fire, this portable propane pit puts out serious heat for a fraction of the cost of comparable models. The hammered black finish looks decent for the price, and the included carry bag makes it easy to take to tailgates or camping trips.
Price range: $
Check price on Amazon →| Award | Model | Our score | Price | Best for | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best overall | Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0 Outdoor Fire Pit, Stainless Steel, Low Smoke, 19.5 inches | 4.7 / 5 | $$ | Anyone who wants the ambiance of a wood fire without smelling like a campfire afterward an | Check price → |
| Runner-up | Outland Living Series 401 Brown 21-Inch Portable Propane Gas Fire Pit Table with Cover | 4.4 / 5 | $$ | Patio owners who want a clean, hassle-free fire with the convenience of a table surface an | Check price → |
| Best value | Heininger 5995 58,000 BTU Portable Propane Outdoor Fire Pit, 47.5-Inch Diameter, Hammered Black | 4.2 / 5 | $ | Budget-conscious shoppers who want a big propane flame for parties, tailgates, or beach tr | Check price → |
| Editor's pick | Real Flame C10789 Sedona Outdoor Wood Burning Fire Pit, 50-Inch Diameter, Black | 4.5 / 5 | $$ | Homeowners with ample outdoor space who love a traditional wood fire and want a centerpiec | Check price → |
| Best premium | Blue Sky Outdoor Living Fire Pit, Steel, 36-Inch Diameter, Antique Bronze, Wood Burning | 4.6 / 5 | $$$ | Design-conscious buyers who want a fire pit that looks as good as it performs and will las | Check price → |
The picks in detail
1. Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0 Outdoor Fire Pit, Stainless Steel, Low Smoke, 19.5 inches: the near-smokeless crowd-pleaser
Best overallThe Bonfire 2.0 uses precision air flow to burn off smoke and creosote, leaving you with a clean, hot flame and very little residue on your clothes. Its 19.5-inch diameter is ideal for 2-4 people, and the stainless steel construction resists rust for years. No spark screen is included, so you will need to buy one separately if you have kids or pets nearby.
Pros
- Dramatically less smoke than standard wood fire pits
- Durable 304 stainless steel that holds up to weather
- Compact and easy to move around the yard or take camping
- Comes with a carry case for convenient storage
Cons
- No spark screen or ash pan included (sold separately)
- Smaller burn area limits logs
- Can get very hot underneath; needs a heat shield on dry grass
Who it’s for
Anyone who wants the ambiance of a wood fire without smelling like a campfire afterward and who doesn’t need a huge flame.Who should skip it
You regularly host 6 or more people around the fire, or you want a pit that doubles as a table.2. Outland Living Series 401 Brown 21-Inch Portable Propane Gas Fire Pit Table with Cover: the portable propane table pit
Runner-upThis 21-inch propane fire pit table packs a clean-burning burner into a lightweight, carry-friendly frame that includes a lid and a cover for year-round use. The faux-stone finish looks like real stone but stays cooler to the touch, and the included lava rock conceals the burner for a natural flame effect.
Pros
- Instant on/off with push-button ignition; no wood prep needed
- Comes with a heavy-duty weather cover and a tabletop lid
- Propane tank hides neatly in the frame
- Stable, low profile that won’t tip easily in wind
Cons
- Heat output is moderate; not ideal for very cold nights
- Propane tank not included; requires a standard tank
- Burner can sputter in strong wind without a windscreen
Who it’s for
Patio owners who want a clean, hassle-free fire with the convenience of a table surface and a cover for the off-season.Who should skip it
You want a large, roaring fire or prefer the smell and sound of real wood.3. Heininger 5995 58,000 BTU Portable Propane Outdoor Fire Pit, 47.5-Inch Diameter, Hammered Black: the big-flame budget burner
Best valueWith a 58,000 BTU burner and a 47.5-inch ring of fire, this portable propane pit puts out serious heat for a fraction of the cost of comparable models. The hammered black finish looks decent for the price, and the included carry bag makes it easy to take to tailgates or camping trips.
Pros
- Massive flame ring that warms a large group
- Very affordable for the heat output and size
- Includes a carry bag for portability
- Piezo ignition works reliably from the first spark
Cons
- Build quality is thinner metal; can dent easily
- No cover or table lid included (bag is storage only)
- Propane tank sits outside the frame and must be connected via a hose
Who it’s for
Budget-conscious shoppers who want a big propane flame for parties, tailgates, or beach trips without breaking the bank.Who should skip it
You need a permanent, attractive tabletop pit that stays on your patio year-round.4. Real Flame C10789 Sedona Outdoor Wood Burning Fire Pit, 50-Inch Diameter, Black: the classic wood-burning centerpiece
Editor's pickThe Sedona is a 50-inch wood-burning ring with a deep bowl that holds substantial logs and a sturdy spark screen for safety. The black powder-coated steel resists rust, and the included poker and screen make it easy to tend the fire. Its wide footprint is best suited for larger patios or open lawns.
Pros
- Generous diameter accommodates full-size logs
- Comes with a spark screen, poker, and weather cover
- Deep bowl design keeps ash contained and sparks low
- Classic black finish blends with any outdoor decor
Cons
- Heavy and not easily moved once assembled
- Requires a level, non-flammable surface (grass will scorch)
- No grate or airflow adjustment; ash must be cleaned manually
Who it’s for
Homeowners with ample outdoor space who love a traditional wood fire and want a centerpiece that families can gather around.Who should skip it
You need a portable pit or you prefer the convenience of propane/clean ignition.5. Blue Sky Outdoor Living Fire Pit, Steel, 36-Inch Diameter, Antique Bronze, Wood Burning: the premium steel showpiece
Best premiumThe Blue Sky Outdoor Living fire pit uses thick, corrosion-resistant steel with a handsome antique bronze finish that weathers gracefully. Its 36-inch diameter is a sweet spot for 4-6 people, and the included spark screen and poker feel substantial. The mesh screen design allows excellent airflow for a lively fire.
Pros
- Heavy-gauge steel construction that resists warping
- Attractive antique bronze patina develops over time
- Includes a sturdy spark screen with a large handle
- Mesh sides provide good oxygen flow for a hot, clean burn
Cons
- Premium price for a wood-burning pit
- No cover or ash removal tool included
- Outdoor storage will cause surface rust if left uncovered
Who it’s for
Design-conscious buyers who want a fire pit that looks as good as it performs and will last for many seasons.Who should skip it
Your budget is tight or you want the compact portability of a smaller pit.Best for specific needs
Best for near-smokeless wood fires
If the thing that has kept you from enjoying a fire pit is the smoke that follows you indoors, the Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0 is the clear answer. Its double-wall design superheats the air, burning off particulates before they leave the pit. You will still get a little smoke during start-up, but once the fire is going, the air stays clear and your clothes stay fresh. Our pick: Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0.
Best for portable propane convenience
For quick, no-fuss fires on the deck, at the campsite, or by the pool, the Outland Living Series 401 offers a clean burn with push-button ignition. It tucks away neatly when not in use, and the tabletop lid turns it into a side table. The 21-inch size is just right for a small group, and the included cover helps protect it year-round. Our pick: Outland Living Series 401.
Best for budget-friendly big flames
When you need to warm a crowd and keep costs low, the Heininger 5995 delivers a spectacular ring of fire for a fraction of the price of other large propane pits. It is not the prettiest or most durable, but it pumps out enough heat to make a tailgate or backyard party memorable. Just be prepared to store the propane tank separately. Our pick: Heininger 5995.
Our verdict
No matter which fuel or size fits your space, a good fire pit turns an ordinary evening into something worth lingering over. If you want the best balance of low smoke, portability, and build quality, start with the Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0. Propane fans who prefer instant flames and a tabletop will love the Outland Living Series 401, while budget buyers can still enjoy a massive fire ring with the Heininger 5995. Pick the one that matches your typical gathering size and your tolerance for smoke, and you will have a backyard centerpiece that pays for itself in memorable nights.