✔️ Size: Fire pits come in all shapes and sizes, and the picks in this list range from 15 to 42 inches in diameter. It’s intuitive, but generally speaking, the larger the fire pit, the more people it can accommodate. The largest picks can comfortably seat 10 people around them without crowding, while the smallest can fit only two or three. Smaller fire pits are generally easier to transport and store. Choose the size that makes sense for you and your outdoor space—and try to prioritize depth when possible. We find that deeper fire pits generally hold more logs without spilling out the top and don’t throw off embers that may disrupt your enjoyment of the fire.
✔️ Material: The most common material for standalone fire pits is steel. Some will be designed for the elements and will develop their own patina; others are stainless and won’t rust easily but should still be covered. Those made with very raw materials will rust quickly if not protected. There are also fire pits that are painted or housed inside another exterior, such as brick, concrete, or fiberglass. If you want a fire pit that’s going to stay put in your backyard for months on end, make sure you invest in something that will stand up to the elements, or get a good cover to put over it when not in use. Otherwise, you can choose a more lightweight and portable option that can be stored indoors.
✔️ Safety features: In general, propane fire pits are safer than wood-burning fire pits because they don’t produce the embers, ash, and smoke that pose a fire hazard. However, gas lines and propane tanks should always be checked to prevent potential leaks. Most wood-burning fire pits on this list have basic protections including wire mesh shields and deep basins to prevent embers from falling outside the pit. One of the most important things you can do to reduce the fire hazard of your pit is to place it a safe distance away from any structures, and position it on a fireproof surface such as concrete, brick, or stone. You can also buy fireproof mats to place under portable fire pits.
✔️ Bonus features: Many fire pits come with extra features such as cooking equipment, unique exterior designs, batteries for charging devices while camping, Bluetooth connectivity, side tables, and more. These can be fun and useful, but don’t prioritize these features over the safety and performance of the fire pit itself.
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