Small fire pits range from 20 to 25 inches in diameter and usually consist of a bowl. This means they’re easy to move around and are ideal for small decks and patios. While the style of your fire pit is dependent on your personal taste and the size dependent on your outdoor space, there are other considerations to keep in mind when choosing the best small fire pit.
One of these is deciding on the fuel: wood, natural gas or propane. Fire pits also come in various materials, such as stone, tile, stainless steel and copper. Extra features such as a vinyl cover, a grill, and a screen can also be handy and practical.
Landmann Garden Lights Savannah Wood Burning Fire Pit
Source: Wayfair
The Landmann Garden Savannah Fire Pit is a little more than 26 inches. It is made of steel with a finish of antique copper. It comes with a spark screen in the shape of a dome that is easy to lift. It comes with a tool that helps you control the fire. It is made of durable construction with four legs to keep it off the ground. It may rust when left outside, so it is important to keep it covered when not in use.
Pros:
The fire bowl has cutouts to create a unique design.
Gives you a 360-degree view of the fire.
Cons:
You should not use this on a wood deck.
KINGSO Outdoor Fire Pit
The Kingso Outdoor Fire Pit is an affordable option that is small enough to fit your backyard patio. It has a deep basin to give you sufficient room to start your fire. The firepit has a wide design that gives you enough room for multiple people to enjoy your fire. The Kingso Fire Pit comes with a fire poker and spark screen. It has a liner that is meshed to allow a substantial amount of air to flow through the fire pit.
Pros:
It is light and can be easily carried around your backyard.
It has a wood grate built into the fire pit.
Cons:
The fire pit rusts easily.
Red Barrel Studio Small Brisia Cauldron Steel Wood Burning Fire Pit
Source: Wayfair
The Red Barrel Studio Brisia Cauldron Wood Burning Fire Pit is a cauldron-style fire pit to give you plenty of room to build a fire. This fire pit is round and constructed of steel. The Red Barrel Wood Fire Pit has ring handles to add a decorative touch to your small fire pit, giving it an antique feel. The spark screen protects you from sparks jumping at you while sitting by the fire.
Pros:
It can belt with a lighter or a match.
This fire pit resists weather and will not rust.
Cons:
It requires full assembly.
Ebern Designs Colis Concrete Wood Fire Pit
Source: Wayfair
The Ebern Designs Colis Concrete Fire Pit burns wood and gives your backyard a modern look with its sleek design. It is constructed of concrete for ultimate durability. This backyard fire pit will not tip over or crack while you are using it. It has an open design giving your fire the area it needs to burn in all its glory. This modern fire pit is compact and can fit in just about any backyard.
Pros:
It includes a grill grate for cooking.
Adding wood to the fire pit is easy due to the open design.
Cons:
It can only hold half-cut wood pieces.
Red Barrel Studio Ballenger Propane Fire Pit
Source: Wayfair
The Red Barrel Studio Propane Fire Pit provides you the benefit of propane. Propane means that you do not need wood or matches to get the fire started. The fire pit has a ledge that is perfect for food and drinks.
The Red Barrel Studio Fire Pit comes with a box of lava rock and glass beads to get you started. The fire pit table has a durable construction of polyresin that resists even the worst weather.
Pros:
It powers on and off with the push of a button.
Holds a propane tank that is 20 pounds.
Cons:
This fire pit should not be used on wood decks.
Bali Outdoors Wood Burning Fire Pit
The Bali Outdoors Wood Fire Pit is round and 32 inches in diameter. This is a unique fire pit that gives you the added ability to grill food while hanging out by the fire. It has an attachment that swivels and moves up and down, giving you space to grill. The Bali Outdoor Fire Pit has a log rack that has a collapsible frame that is triangular in shape to give your logs superior space to grow your fire. This log rack ensures that your wood stays in a crisscrossed formation to provide complete burning.
Pros:
The lip around the fire pit holds your drinks.
Includes a circular steel ring for stability.
Cons:
Material is thinner than you might expect.
Winston Porter Youngtown Wood Fire Pit
Source: Wayfair
The Winston Porter Youngtown Steel Wood Burning Fire Pit is constructed of distressed metal. It has a deep bowl to help you start your fire and keep it going. It comes with a poker and a spark screen. The spark screen has a handle on top for easy removal. The Winston Porter Youngtown is a compact fire pit that is sturdy and perfect for a smaller backyard.
Pros:
It includes a storage cover for when it is not in use.
It is a portable fire pit and can be anywhere you want.
Cons:
You cannot use it on a wood deck.
Outland Living Propane Gas Fire Table
The Outland Living Propane Gas Fire Table is a rectangular shape that gives you an interesting look for your backyard. The fire table is easy to assemble. The liquid propane removes the need for wood and a lighter. It powers on and off easily with the push of a button. The top of the table is a black tempered glass giving it a classic look. The finish of the Outland Living Fire Table resembles wicker to fit in easily with any of your patio furniture. It includes decorative glass rocks in the area where the fire is located.
Pros:
Easy to assemble.
It includes a water-resistant cover.
Cons:
The glass tabletop is not included. It is an optional accessory.
Hampton Bay Maison Fire Pit
Source: Walmart
The Hampton Bay Maison Fire Pit is 30 inches in diameter to provide you the ability to build large fires. This round fire pit gives the perfect view of the fire the entire evening. This fire pit has a finish of copper to give it an attractive look. It comes with a mesh screen to keep you and your friends safe from the fire. This is an ideal patio fire pit.
Pros:
The fire pit is easy to assemble.
Attractive decorative bottom.
Cons:
May be difficult to find. It is often out of stock.
JHY Design Fire Bowl Pot
The JHY Design Fire Bowl Pot is perfect for any backyard cookout. This fire bowl sits on any tabletop and comes in two possible sizes. The fire bowl is round, and you can always see the flames. This fire bowl pot becomes an attractive decoration, as well as a heat source.
The JHY Design Fire Bowl Pot uses an odorless, smokeless, and clean fuel called Bio Ethanol. It is ventless so it does not require a chimney. It is constructed of durable stainless steel and comes with a glass cover.
Pros:
Affordable price tag.
Lightweight and portable weighing less than three pounds.
Cons:
The Bio Ethanol is not included.
Patina Products Collegiate Series Fire Pit
Source: Wayfair
The Patina Products Collegiate Series Fire Pit is a great way to show your support of your favorite team while enjoying a warm fire. This is a wood-burning fire pit that is constructed of durable cold-rolled steel. The Collegiate Series Fire Pit comes with a wood poker, spark screen, and grill insert. This fire pit has handles which makes it easy to move your fire pit to any location in your backyard.
Pros:
The legs are welded on to provide maximum stability.
It comes fully assembled.
Cons:
It may take a long time for the fire pit to ship.
Bali Outdoors Gas Fire Pit
The Bali Outdoors Gas Fire Pit is versatile and attractive. The fire pit comes with a removable cover that allows you to use the fire pit as a dining table when there is no fire. This Bali Outdoors Fire Pit puts out a significant amount of heat to keep you warm on even the coolest nights. The table is 25 inches tall and weighs about 43 pounds. The ignition system allows you to turn on the fire with a quick push of a button.
Pros:
Easy assembly.
The Bali doubles as an outdoor dining table.
Cons:
Many reviewers said the fire pit does not work properly.
Terra Flame Zen Table Top Fire Bowl
The Terra Flame Zen Table Top Fire Bowl is constructed of concrete that has been hand-cast. This fire bowl is the ideal centerpiece for your backyard table. The fire bowl is 11 inches wide and filled with beach pebbles that are multi-colored. The Terra Flame Zen Fire Bowl is fueled by an odorless gel fuel. This creates a flame that is smoke-free. This fire bowl comes as a complete package, which includes fuel, and ready for you to start your fire.
Pros:
Comes in three different finishes.
This fire can burn for about three hours.
Cons:
The stone may crack easily.
Backyard Wildlife Fire Pit and Grill
The Backyard Wildlife Fire Pit and Grill has a design with animal cutouts which gives you a special nighttime ambiance. It is constructed with a durable frame with a black finish to make it easier to clean. The sand-painted finished can hold up to the heat of a fire.
The Backyard Wildlife Fire Pit comes with a cooking grate that is full size. The fire bowl is deep and can hold enough firewood to keep you and your friends warm all night long.
Pros:
It weighs about 25 pounds and can be moved wherever you want.
It is so easy to assemble; even the kids can do it.
Cons:
Is likely to rust if left out in the rain.
Landmann Small Brookfield Steel Wood Burning Fire Pit
Source: Wayfair
The Landmann Small Brookfield Steel Wood Burning Fire Pit has a 24-inch fire bowl giving you substantial room to build your fire. It has a rolled edge and a diamond pattern to give it a unique look. It also has four legs that are curved and wrap-around. The diamond cuts in the fire pit allow the perfect amount of airflow to keep your fire burning. When you purchase the Landmann Brookfield, you are investing in a quality fire pit at an affordable price.
Pros:
It includes a fire poker and spark screen.
It can burn charcoal as well as wood.
Cons:
You cannot use this on a wood deck.
Latitude Run Small Eldie Steel Wood Burning Fire Pit
Source: Wayfair
The Latitude Run Small Eldie Steel Wood Burning Fire Pit is compact and portable but still provides a significant amount of warmth. It comes with a grate for cooking, so you can barbecue your food while warming yourself by the fire. The Latitude fire pit comes with a mesh cover to keep you safe from the flying embers. It comes with cast iron legs that are angled to provide stability and durability. The entire finish is resistant to heat.
Pros:
Includes a fire poker and mesh cover.
It is portable and goes on the road with you.
Cons:
It does not include a cover for when not in use.
Loon Peak Horwich Stone Propane Fire Pit
Source: Wayfair
The Loon Peak Horwich Stone Propane Fire Pit has a sturdy construction on which you can rely. The concrete base will not crack and remains stable even on windy nights. This square fire pit is the ideal shape and is fueled by propane gas. The Loon Peak Fire Pit has a ceramic top that resembles wood. It is rated for 40,000 BTUs to make sure you and your friends all stay warm. The push-button ignition allows you to power your fire pit on and off easily.
Pros:
The Loon Peak comes with all the accessories you need including rocks and a cover.
No real assembly is required.
Cons:
The color has some red brushed tones, which are not displayed well in pictures.
FAQs
What is a Good Size For a Fire Pit?
The best size for a fire pit ranges from an inside diameter of 36 inches to 44 inches. This gives you enough space for the fire and keeps everyone close enough to talk.
How Close Can a Fire Pit Be to a House?
A fire pit should be at least 10 feet away from your house or any other structure. It should be at least 10 feet away from anything that can catch on fire.
What Should I Put Around My Fire Pit?
You should tamp down the ground where you plan to place the fire pit. Then put down decomposed granite or sand. Do not put a fire pit over any type of wood substance.
Should I Put Sand in the Bottom of My Fire Pit?
There are many benefits and no negatives to putting sand at the bottom of your fire pit. It is a good idea. The sand helps to distribute the heat evenly through the fire pit. It can help to protect the bowl of the fire pit from the incredible heat of the fire.
Do I Need a Fire Ring for My Fire Pit?
If you plan to have your fire pit remain permanently in your backyard, you may want to consider a fire ring. If it is temporary, you may not need a fire ring. A fire ring helps to maintain the structure of your fire pit, as well as maintain and protect the surface on which the fire pit sits.
Our Previous List of Favorite Small Fire Pits
A. Wood Burning Fire Pits
1. Solo Stove Bonfire
Without a doubt, the Solo Stove Bonfire is one of the most popular small fire pits, due to various reasons. Firstly, it is made of stainless steel – this guarantees its durability.
Concurrently, it weighs 20 lbs. when empty, while being 14 inches tall and 19.5 inches wide. That means it offers enough room, and it accommodates six pieces of firewood.
When it comes to starting a fire, it is quite effortless, as long as you have everything you need at your disposal. If you do it right, you should enjoy a good blaze in a matter of minutes. The fire should roar soon afterward.
A word of caution, though, the structure is prone to get overly hot. So, it probably would be best if you restrain yourself from moving or touching the item until the fire is definitely out.
Pros
- Sturdy, durable construction
- It doesn’t release any smoke
- It generates a lot of heat
- Easy to start a fire
Cons
- The fire pit is prone to rust if left outside
- Cleaning the inside bottom is a drag
2. Sunnydaze Bronze Crossweave Fire Pit
If you’re looking for small fire pits with a unique design, this one could be an excellent pick. It has a beautiful design, adding a nice accent to any patio or garden.
Moreover, it weighs 29 lbs., measuring 36 inches in diameter. Regarding the item’s build and durability, it is made of steel, featuring an oil-rubbed bronze finish.
To that end, this item is built to last, meaning that it can resist high temperatures and some serious kicks. Aside from these advantages, the weather coverage is a welcome addition, thanks to the spark screen.
The fire screen dome that comes over the top is a notable benefit as soon as the fire gets started, and you want to prevent the debris from coming out.
Pros
- Unique design
- Weather coverage
- Perfect size
Cons
- The fire pit doesn’t have holes in the bottom, in order to facilitate water drainage
- The quality of the screws is subpar
3. Fire Sense 11-Inch Folding Fire Pit
Small fire pits that are easy to assemble are a godsend. This one by Fire Sense is a perfect example of a high-quality fire pit that is effortless to assemble – meaning that you won’t have any headaches in this respect.
It features folding legs, so you can carry this with you to campsites or during excursions, as well. In fact, you should be happy to learn that setting this up doesn’t require any tools whatsoever – good news for less talented handymen out there.
Plus, it weighs only 7 lbs.; obviously, the small size plays a crucial role in the portability aspect.
It is made of heat resistant painted steel. What is more, this item is truly versatile, meaning that you can use it as a cooking grill, as well.
Pros
- A nice deal of accessories included
- Portability
- Easy to assemble
Cons
- The construction isn’t the sturdiest
- The legs are prone to bending with significant weight
- It is likely to rust
4. Crossweave Steel Wood Burning Fire Pit
Small fire pits are an excellent way of adding a bit of functionality and aesthetic appeal to your backyard.
Having a 26.5-inch diameter, this fire pit is decorated with a lovely cross-weave pattern. Size-wise, it is ideal for a nice evening with the family.
You can add just enough firewood, not to mention that cleaning and maintaining the pit is a breeze. Moving on to the construction of this item, similar to other high-quality small fire pits, it is made of sturdy steel. Also, it is coated with high heat paint.
It’s worth mentioning that you also get a weather resistant cover. Protecting your fire pit from the outdoor elements is essential if you want to ensure its durability. You’ll also get a spark screen, a log grate, and log poker.
Pros
- Nice design
- Easy to assemble
- It can keep your entire patio warm
- Efficient accessories
Cons
- The durability of the item could be improved
5. Landsmann Bromley Diamond Steel Wood Burning Fire Pit
When you’re shopping for small fire pits, an important tip is considering the build material of the item. To that end, the Bromley fire pit is manufactured with sturdy steel. Additionally, it is 19.9 inches high and 25.8 inches wide, facilitating ease of transportation.
So, if you plan on taking this outside the premises of your house, there is nothing to worry about in this view, since it weighs 12.7 lbs.
The design is quite attractive, which means this fire pit is a decorative item, as well.
Plus, the decorative cutout design plays a role in creating a nice ambiance – this is great to know especially if you plan a romantic evening with your significant other.
Pros
- Spark screen included
- Portable
- Easy to assemble
Cons
- The fire pit is a tad flimsy
6. Pure Garden Steel Wood Burning Fire
Small fire pits are all about practicality and convenience. And this item by Pure Garden makes no exception to this rule. It weighs 40.6 lbs., which would make it one of the sturdiest items on this list, being 33 inches wide and 20 inches high.
As a bonus, this fire pit has an insightful, unique design you’re bound to love. The frame of this piece is made of solid steel and has a powder coated black finish.
As for the table top, it has a nice tile border; plus, you’ll get a tile fire-bowl cover, in case you plan on using the whole table surface.
Considering that the bowl has the ideal size – who ever said that small fire pits are too small? – you can easily create the perfect fire in just a few minutes. The inclusion of a poker and spark screen ensures that you remain safe as you tend to the logs.
This is quite important because, according to statistics, if fire pits aren’t tended to accordingly, the repercussions can be catastrophic. So, taking the necessary precautionary measures is mandatory to increase your safety.
Pros
- Child-friendly design, due to the safety features
- Ideal for small gatherings
- Perfect size
- Sturdy design
Cons
- Setting up the fire pit takes some time
7. Colton Concrete Wood Burning Fire Pit
As we said beforehand, the material of small fire pits establishes the item’s durability. If you want a durable item, a concrete wood burning fire pit is the way to go.
Featuring an iron frame and fiberglass reinforced cement construction, this product is tailored for outdoor use. It weighs 40 lbs., being 18.75 inches high and 18.75 inches wide.
The design of the fire pit is classic, making it a nice addition to your patio. Ideally, you should consider getting a heat resistant barrier, in order to ensure safe operation of the fire pit. It can be used with charcoal, as well.
Pros
- Nice design
- Sturdy construction
- Cleaning and moving it around is easy
Cons
- The fire pit doesn’t hold up to cold winters, being prone to cracks
- It has been noted that the fire pit showed signs of rust
8. Fire Sense Rail Steel Wood Burning Fire Pit
Needless to say, small fire pits represent a pleasant way of lightening up a backyard or patio. This particular model comes equipped with a spark screen cover, which is a welcome safety feature. This way, you can rest assured that the embers won’t become uncontrollable – who would want such a thing, right?
The fire poker is a nice touch, as well, allowing you to stoke the fire. The manufacturer advises buyers not to use the fire pit on a composite deck, for safety reasons. That’s worth taking into account.
In order to ensure that this is the perfect addition to your patio, you should know that its height is 21 inches, whereas its width is 37 inches. Simultaneously, it weighs 37 lbs., which makes it quite sturdy.
Pros
- Putting it together is easy
- Practical drainage holes
- The copper ring is a nice safety addition
Cons
- It is prone to rust, which means you should store it in a damp-free place after each use.
9. Avondale Steel Fire Bowl
This item fits into the category of steel small fire pits. However, its unique design is the main element that sets it apart. Featuring a delightful antique finishing, this item is both decorative and fully functional.
Plus, if your patio is already crammed (we’ve all been there), this 29-inch bowl will be the perfect fit. Since it weighs 31.1 lbs., you can move it around, if needed, without it killing your back or anything of the sort.
Evidently, the wire mesh spark screen protects you from sparks. Plus, it creates a nice ambiance.
Pros
- Easy to move around
- Setting it up is a breeze
- Beautiful design
Cons
- The steel construction isn’t as durable as it should be.
See More
B. Propane Fire Pits
1. Red Ember Cypress Round Gas Fire Pit
Small fire pits run on different fuels – propane is one of them. And this specific item balances convenience and design, having a 50,000 BTU heat output. Design-wise, the dark bronze finishing combined with the neutral lava rocks is likely to suit a wide range of outdoor styles.
As for the included tank seat, it facilitates ample room for concealing a 20 lbs. propane tank – which isn’t included. Note that the fire pit weighs 24.2 lbs., whereas the hideaway table weighs 16.5 lbs.
The width of the item is 26 inches. You should also know that the metal on the sides is likely to get hot. Hence, you should be careful. However, the good thing is that the base is insulated, meaning that it won’t get overheated.
Pros
- Easy to move around and store
- Lightweight
- Beautiful design
Cons
- Setting it up requires some time
2. Outland Living Outdoor Propane Gas Fire Pit
Small fire pits are great because they create a smokeless flame, which is almost identical to that of a campfire. The 24-inch diameter of the fire pit means the surface area is ideal for small places.
A noteworthy advantage is that the item is CSA approved. That maximizes customer satisfaction and safety to use. The weather resistant cover is definitely useful since you can use it to protect the fire pit from rain, snow, so on and so forth.
Moving on to the measurements, this fire pit weighs 34 pounds, and it is 13 inches high and 24 inches wide. Additionally, the tube for the tank is sufficiently long so that you can hide the propane tank.
Pros
- The shield on the bottom means you can place it on a wooden deck
- CSA approved
- Weather resistant cover included
Cons
- The weather cover collects rain, and attracts mosquitos, as noted by former customers.
3. Heininger Portable Outdoor Fire Pit
This is one of the best small fire pits on the market, which is also portable. Thus, you can take it with you during every outdoor adventure.
What is more, it is CSA approved; as a result, you can use it during campfire bans. A great thing about this product is that it puts out a lot of heat, irrespective of its small size. To that end, it weighs 22 pounds, being 19.2 inches high and 19.2 inches wide.
So, if you ever thought that the size of a fire pit is the most important characteristic, this product proves that mindset wrong.
Pros
- Lightweight
- 10-foot hose included
- Easy to transport
Cons
- No built-in ignition
- A longer hose would have been nice
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C. Gel Fuel Fire Pits
1. Sutton Indoor/Outdoor Fireplace
Gel fuel small fire pits are worth considering if you want to use the fire pit indoors. The good thing about them is that you can use them both indoors and outdoors, depending on your preference.
The bright side is that there isn’t any assembly required, which is rather convenient if you don’t want to be bothered.
It weighs only 3 lbs. while being 12 inches wide and 5 inches high. So, it is really space efficient. You can use gel or ethanol – it’s entirely up to you.
Pros
- Designated for both indoor and outdoor use
- Lightweight
- No assembly required
- Well built
Cons
- The flame doesn’t last too long
2. Outdoor GreatRoom Harmony Tabletop Fire Pit
Gel fuel small fire pits can be used as decorative elements, considering that they have the most surprising designs.
For instance, this tabletop fire pit, made of heavy-duty glass and crystal, will upgrade your room’s aesthetic appeal. Additionally, the special Venturi flame technology utilizes a turbo disc, placed in a tapered cylinder. That creates a unique spinning effect.
Once again, gel fuel small fire pits demonstrate that you needn’t have a large patio or backyard to enjoy a nice, smoke-free fire.
It weighs 25.5 lbs., and it is 15 inches high and 13 inches wide.
Pros
- Functional and decorative item
- Beautiful design
- Burns up to 9,000 BTUs when spinning
- Safety tested
Cons
- The round cylinder doesn’t fit perfectly
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D. Conclusion
Small fire pits are definitely a welcome addition to any living space (even small ones). Getting such an item will improve your house’s aesthetic appeal while allowing you to enjoy a nice fire, some delicious food, and so on.
Depending on the space you have at your disposal, and how important portability is to you, you should consider the dimensions and weight of the item before making a purchase.
On a final note, you should be wary of the most important small fire pits safety tips. This way, you can enjoy your fire pit without worrying about potential hazards that might occur!
