Campfires are appealing. They bring folks together, keep you warm, and can add a romantic tinge to the air. However, real campfires are going the way of the dinosaurs. Also, the smoke can get into your eyes, clothes, and hair. Nor does everyone enjoy camping. Thankfully, we now have fire pit tables to enjoy a smoke-free ambiance at home. Thus, we've gathered up the best to make your patio inviting.
Fire pit tables may not be the first choice for campers, but they have a more inviting aesthetic for your patio and backyard. Plus, it gives you somewhere to set the mulled wine in the yuletide season, which is handy. The trick is finding the style and size you want that runs on the fuel of your choice. Fire pit tables can operate on gas or propane, but there are pros and cons to consider.
In This Review & Buyers Guide
Gas vs. Propane
Buyers must decide whether to use gas or propane before purchasing a fire pit table. At first glance, gas is the more attractive option. It burns hotter than propane, although the flame is not as pretty or as visible. But it's the cheaper fuel option if you are already hooked up to your area's supply. Lastly, gas doesn't use a heavy tank that needs to be cleverly disguised or refueled.
However, most people use a propane fire pit table, making it easier to source. For starters, they're cheaper to install as buyers can legally do it. Natural gas requires installation by a certified professional and a line put in, around 25 bucks per foot.
Once installed, the natural gas pit is fixed. In compassion, a propane fire pit can be moved to a location in your yard or a new home. (Related article: Propane vs. Natural Gas Fire Pits: Which One is Best for You?)
Best Gas Fire Pit Table For Your Patio
You want quality and longevity if installing a natural gas fire pit. The cost of hiring a professional to hook it up and sign off on the paperwork isn't something you want to deal with every year. That's why the Elementi Granville Fire Table is our top pick for a gas fire pit table. It is also our most expensive, selling for around $1,600.
The Granville cast concrete design oozes elegance yet is durable, so you don't have to worry about unsightly peeling due to use and the weather. Lightening it is easy thanks to the auto-ignition. Also, they don't skimp accessories, providing a canvas cover and over 13 lbs of lava rocks.
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Best Propane Fire Pit Table
The UPHA 56-inch Outdoor Fire Pit Table is the best for propane. The set includes a sleek rectangular coffee table and a matching side table to hide the propane tank. The fire pit table has a 50,000 BTU rating, and the auto-ignition works better than most models.
Assembly is easy, and the wind guard, cover lid, and rain cover are included. It punches well above its mid-point price range of around $680.
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Best Fire Pit Table For Large Yards
The international design-winning Outland Living Granville Fire Table is the best fire pit table for large yards or patios. The 32" X 44" X 24" all-weather-wicker design comes in espresso brown or slate grey, perfect for most outdoor aesthetics. It has an auto-ignition and puts out decent heat with a 50,000 BUT rating. It arrives ready for propane but will work on natural gas if you buy the conversion kit.
While it isn't cheap (between $600-700 depending on the deal), it's excellent value for money. The easy-to-assemble design is sturdy and durable. Plus, the arctic ice decorative glass is an eye-catching change from the lava rocks. You can purchase the attractive wind guard to maximize the usable tabletop space and its dual functionality. It sets off the dancing flame beautifully.
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Best Fire Pit Table For Small Area
Best Choice Products 28-inch Fire Pit Table is perfect for a small area and is less than $300. It has a lid to maximize the table space, 50,000 BTU, the tank can be stored inside, and the brown glass rocks are a charming touch. The woven wicker design is fitted over a steel frame and is as durable as it is attractive. Plus, it comes with a fabric cover to help it withstand spats of foul weather.
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Best Fire Pit Table For The Money
You don't have to break the bank to own a decent fire pit table. Bali Outdoors 28-inch Fire Pit Table is sold for well under 200 bucks, providing excellent value for money. The antique finish stainless steel design is attractive, the tank is hidden within, and it easily ignites with a push of the button. In addition, it produces decent heat at 50,000 BTU.
The Bali Outdoors is snug but fully converts to a table when the lid is on and can comfortably accommodate four bar stools. Thus, it is a true tabletop, making it useful even on a hot summer's day when a fire is the last thing on your mind.
However, if the 28-inch is too small for your needs, check out their 42-inch rectangular option. You have to pay a bit more, but it has 60,000 BTU and will still hide the tank.
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Final Thoughts
The best fire pit must meet your budget, size, and fuel type needs. But all five of our recommendations are stylish and are guaranteed to bring your patio to life.