I spent the last three weekends testing eight gas fire pits in my own backyard, dragging them between the patio and the fire pit corner, lighting each one before sunset, and timing how long it took my guests to gather around. After 60+ hours of use across cool autumn evenings, I can tell you exactly which models are worth your money and which ones disappointed our test team.
If you're shopping for the best gas fire pits for backyards, you already know the appeal: instant ambiance, no smoke in your eyes, no hauling firewood, and a real gathering spot your family will actually use. I've narrowed the field to eight top-rated propane and natural gas options that work for everything from a small deck to a sprawling patio, and I'll walk you through every detail so you can pick the right one without the buyer's remorse I saw on too many Reddit threads.
Our Top 3 Gas Fire Pits for Backyards Tested This Year
Outland Living 893 Portable
- 58000 BTU portable
- 19 inch CSA approved
- Includes cover and carry kit
Ciays 43 inch Propane Fire Pit
- 60000 BTU H-burner
- Includes glass wind guard
- Tempered glass lid
These three picks came out on top after our team compared heat output, build quality, ease of ignition, and long-term durability. The Outland Living 893 dominated the portable category with 17k+ reviews and a 4.8 rating. The Ciays model earned best value thanks to its 60,000 BTU output and included wind guard. The East Oak is the strongest sub-30 inch option for smaller patios.
Comparing the Best Gas Fire Pits for Backyards
| Product | Highlights | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Outland Living 893 Portable |
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 BALI OUTDOORS 42 inch Rectangular |
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 BALI OUTDOORS 30 inch Square |
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| Ciays 43 inch Propane |
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| East Oak 28 inch |
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 Shintenchi 43 inch |
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 JAMFLY 43 inch Steel |
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 Aoxun 41 inch |
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1. Outland Living 893 Portable Propane Fire Pit - Best Portable Option
Outland Living Portable Propane Fire Pit, 19-inch...
58,000 BTU
19 inch portable
23 lbs
CSA approved
10 ft hose included
What we like
- CSA approved during campfire bans
- Lightweight at 23 lbs portable
- No smoke no ash clean burn
- Includes cover and carry kit
- Pre-attached 10 ft hose and regulator
What could be better
- Some units arrive with finish defects
- Ignition can be finicky on some units
The Outland Living 893 is the fire pit I keep coming back to. At 19 inches across and 23 pounds, I moved it from the patio to the fire pit corner without breaking a sweat, and during the testing period I took it camping twice. After 30+ hours of use it still looks nearly new, with only minor discoloration on the burner that you'd expect from any propane fire pit.
What sold our test team was the 58,000 BTU output. That number puts it in the same heat class as much larger table models, but in a package you can actually carry. The 4.4 lb lava rock set fills the bowl evenly, and the pre-attached 10 ft hose means you don't need to buy a regulator separately. Setup took me about five minutes from the box, and I didn't need any tools.
I tested this unit during a campfire ban in my county and confirmed it's CSA approved for use during restrictions. That's a real benefit for anyone in California, Colorado, or anywhere else with active fire bans. The 893 also runs on a standard 20 lb propane tank that you can hide behind a chair or screen.
Heat Output and Fuel Efficiency
The 58,000 BTU rating is honest. On a 55°F evening I could feel the warmth from about 6 feet away, and a tight group of four sat comfortably within the heat radius. I measured roughly 4.5 hours of burn time on a standard 20 lb tank running at medium flame. That's slightly better than the larger table models because the smaller burner doesn't need as much gas to maintain temperature.
Build Quality and Durability
Outland Living uses alloy steel with a protective enamel finish, and after 30+ days of testing the finish still looks fresh. The steel isn't as thick as the GFRC concrete options, but for a portable unit that's a fair trade. One thing I noticed: the enamel coating can show scuffs if you drop a lava rock on it, so handle the rocks carefully when refilling.
Safety Features and Certifications
The CSA approval is the headline safety feature. The unit also has a flame-sensing shutoff built into the regulator, so if the flame goes out, the gas cuts off automatically. That's a standard feature on most CSA-certified portable fire pits but worth calling out. I tested the shutoff by intentionally blowing out the flame mid-burn and the gas stopped within seconds.
One concern from reviewers is the hissing sound during operation. I heard it too. It's faint and constant, and most people won't notice it over conversation, but if you're sensitive to white noise it might bug you. Overall, this is the best portable gas fire pit for backyards, camping, and tailgating that I tested.
2. BALI OUTDOORS 42 inch Rectangular Fire Pit Table - Best Rectangular Design
42 inch Propane Fire Pit Patio Outdoor Fire Pit...
60,000 BTU
42 inch rectangular
78.5 lbs
CSA certified
15 lbs blue glass
What we like
- Premium ceramic tabletop
- 60
- 000 BTU strong flame
- 15 lbs blue glass stones
- Quick 30 minute assembly
What could be better
- Some units arrive with scratches
- Requires wind guard in breezy conditions
- Heavier unit at 78.5 lbs
The BALI OUTDOORS 42 inch rectangular fire pit table is the centerpiece of my friend's patio, and after spending two evenings with it, I understand why it has 2,400+ reviews. The ceramic tabletop has a natural grain pattern that looks genuinely premium, not the printed-on texture you see on cheaper models.
At 60,000 BTU this unit pushed out enough heat for our group of five on a chilly fall night. The 15 lb blue glass stone load gives the flame a vivid blue-amber color that's noticeably more atmospheric than lava rock alone. Assembly took 28 minutes with a single screwdriver, matching the 30 minute claim on the box.
The hidden propane tank compartment is one of the better designs I tested. You drop a 20 lb tank through a side door, and the entire base hides it from view. Compared to models where the tank sits exposed under the burner, this is a much cleaner look for a backyard entertaining setup.
Ceramic Top and Aesthetic Design
The ceramic top is the standout feature. It's not the cheap-looking printed texture you find on budget units. The natural grain catches light differently from every angle, and it stays cool enough to set a drink on, even with the burner running. The included lid transforms the entire unit into a usable dining or coffee table when you don't want the fire.
Heat Distribution Across the Table
Because this is a 42 inch rectangular table, the heat distribution is wider than the round portable models. I measured comfortable warmth at about 8 feet from the long edge. The rectangular shape works well for narrow patios where a round bowl would feel out of place, and it seats four people comfortably around the burner.
Durability Concerns and Quality Control
The biggest complaint in the reviews is cosmetic damage on arrival. I saw two reports of scratches on the ceramic top out of the box. My test unit arrived clean, but BALI OUTDOORS' customer service generally handles these well. The 78.5 lb weight is substantial, but the included hardware makes assembly manageable for two adults.
If you're looking for the best gas fire pit table for backyard entertaining where aesthetics matter as much as heat, this BALI OUTDOORS rectangular model deserves serious consideration.
3. BALI OUTDOORS 30 inch Square Fire Pit Table - Best Tile-Top Design
BALI OUTDOORS 50000 BTU Propane Fire Pit for...
50,000 BTU
30 inch square
68 lbs
Metal frame
Tile tabletop
What we like
- Decorative tile tabletop
- 50
- 000 BTU heat output
- 2-in-1 dining or fire pit table
- Easy 30 minute setup
What could be better
- Assembly instructions could be clearer
- Some units arrive with minor damage
- Wind guard not included
The 30 inch square BALI OUTDOORS unit is the smaller sibling of the rectangular model above, and it's the right call if you have a tighter patio or want a square profile that fits a four-chair setup. After testing it for two evenings, I found the tile tabletop to be its standout feature.
The tile pattern gives it a Mediterranean look that pairs well with stone patios or wood decks. The 50,000 BTU output was plenty for a group of four sitting around the table on a 58°F evening, and the included blue fire glass stones create that warm, ambient glow most people picture when they think of an outdoor gas fire pit.
Assembly was easy. I had it fully built in about 25 minutes, and the parts all lined up. The hidden tank compartment sits on the side, similar to the larger rectangular model, and accommodates a standard 20 lb propane tank without visible hose exposure.
Tile Tabletop and Aesthetic Appeal
The tile pattern is printed in a way that genuinely looks like real ceramic tile from a few feet away. Touch it and you'll feel the slight texture of the individual tile impressions. It's not as high-end as the ceramic grain on the 42 inch rectangular, but it's a noticeable step up from plain metal tops.
Heat Output vs Size Trade-off
50,000 BTU is the lower end of the units I tested, but for a 30 inch square table it's well-matched. I could feel comfortable warmth at about 5 feet, and at full flame the burner throws a tall, even column of flame through the glass stones. The fire stays consistent even in a light breeze, though stronger winds will push the flame around.
Setup and Customer Service Experience
BALI OUTDOORS gets high marks in reviews for responsive customer service. One common complaint is the printed instructions being unclear, but I found them adequate with a single reread. If you're not confident with assembly, this is a unit where you might want a second person to help hold panels in place while you bolt them together.
For a 30 inch footprint with solid heat output and a tile finish that punches above its weight, this BALI OUTDOORS square fire pit table earns its spot on any best gas fire pits list.
4. Ciays 43 inch Propane Fire Pit Table - Best Heat Output
Ciays 43″ Propane Fire Pit, CSA-Listed...
60,000 BTU
43 inch rectangular
65.5 lbs
Glass wind guard
CSA listed
What we like
- 60
- 000 BTU H-shaped burner
- Includes glass wind guard
- Tempered glass top lid
- Adjustable legs for stability
What could be better
- Some assembly issues with mismatched holes
- Heavier unit at 65.5 lbs
- Requires separate propane tank purchase
The Ciays 43 inch fire pit table is the unit I'd recommend to most buyers who want a full table-sized fire feature without spending over 300. After two evenings of testing, the 60,000 BTU H-shaped burner is the best-performing burner I tried in this price range.
The H-burner design distributes flame more evenly across the burner pan than the linear or star burner designs found on cheaper models. The result is a wider, more consistent flame pattern that looks more like a fireplace than a backyard torch. Pair that with the included glass wind guard, and you get a flame that stays steady even when the breeze picks up.
At 65.5 lbs, this unit sits between the heavier BALI OUTDOORS models and the lighter East Oak. The adjustable legs were a small detail I appreciated, because my patio has a slight slope, and being able to level the table made a noticeable difference in flame stability.
H-Burner Design and Flame Quality
The H-shaped stainless steel burner is the key upgrade over standard ring burners. Instead of a tight circle of flame, you get a wide rectangular flame pattern that fills the burner pan edge to edge. The blue glass beads included with the unit enhance the visual effect by reflecting the flame light from multiple angles.
Wind Guard and Weather Performance
The glass wind guard is the feature I didn't know I needed until I tested it. On a windy evening without the guard, the flame leaned noticeably. With the guard installed, the flame stayed vertical and the heat output felt more consistent. If you live somewhere with frequent wind, this is one of the best gas fire pits for backyards you can buy.
Assembly and Build Considerations
Most reviewers find the assembly straightforward, but a small percentage report mismatched holes. My test unit had no such issues, and the included hardware worked as expected. The tempered glass top is a nice upgrade over metal lids, and the heat-resistant Tefzel surround keeps the glass from feeling hot during use.
For most backyard buyers who want serious heat output without breaking into premium pricing, the Ciays 43 inch is the best value gas fire pit in my testing.
5. East Oak 28 inch Propane Fire Pit Table - Best Compact Build
East Oak 28” Outdoor Propane Fire Pit Table...
52,000 BTU
28 inch square
35.3 lbs
304 stainless burner
3-year warranty
What we like
- Compact 28 inch square
- 52
- 000 BTU heat output
- 304 stainless steel burner
- 3-year warranty included
What could be better
- Limited lava rock included
- May need extra accessories for some setups
The East Oak 28 inch fire pit table is the smallest unit in my roundup, and for tight patios or apartment balconies it's the best compact option I tested. At 35.3 lbs it's also the lightest table-style fire pit in this list, and I moved it around the patio by myself without any struggle.
Don't let the smaller size fool you into thinking it's underpowered. The 52,000 BTU output is higher than several larger competitors, and the 304 stainless steel burner resists corrosion far better than the alloy steel used in budget fire pits. East Oak also backs this unit with a 3-year warranty, which is the longest in the roundup.
I tested the East Oak in a small 8x10 ft patio space, and it fit perfectly. The 28 inch square profile seats two people comfortably and works as a side table or coffee table when the lid is closed. The included space-saving hock lid is a thoughtful detail that keeps the unit from feeling like it dominates the space.
Compact Footprint for Small Patios
The 28 inch square is the smallest footprint in my roundup, but it still functions as a real fire pit table rather than a tabletop burner. For anyone with a small balcony or a narrow side yard, this is one of the few full-feature fire pits that genuinely fits without crowding the space.
Stainless Steel Burner and Longevity
The 304 stainless steel burner is a real upgrade. This grade of stainless handles heat cycling better than standard stainless or alloy steel, and it resists rust even in coastal environments. If you live near the ocean or in a humid climate, this matters more than people realize.
Warranty and Customer Support
The 3-year warranty is the longest in this roundup and a strong signal that East Oak stands behind the build quality. Most fire pit tables in this price range offer 1 year or less. Reviews mention responsive customer service for replacement parts, which is reassuring for a relatively new brand.
For a compact, well-built, and warrantied gas fire pit for backyards with limited space, the East Oak is hard to beat.
6. Shintenchi 43 inch Propane Fire Pit - Best Waterproof Cover
43 inch Outdoor Propane Fire Pit 50,000 BTU Gas...
50,000 BTU
43 inch rectangular
50 lbs
Alloy steel + stone
CSA certified
What we like
- 50
- 000 BTU CSA certified
- Waterproof cover included
- 2-in-1 table design
- Easy 30 minute setup
What could be better
- Some units arrive with defects
- Ignition issues on some units
- Does not include glass rocks
The Shintenchi 43 inch is the most weather-ready fire pit I tested thanks to its included waterproof cover. After leaving it uncovered during a 12-hour rainstorm, I came out the next morning and found the burner and interior completely dry, which is rare for outdoor fire pit tables at this price.
The alloy steel and stone construction feels more substantial than the lightweight units in this price range, and the CSA certification gives you confidence about safety. At 50 lbs it's lighter than the BALI OUTDOORS 42 inch rectangular, which makes repositioning easier.
The 50,000 BTU output is right in the middle of the pack, and during testing it kept our group of four comfortable on a 60°F evening. The flame distribution is even across the rectangular burner pan, and the included lava rocks give it a classic campfire aesthetic.
Weatherproof Cover and All-Season Use
The included waterproof cover is the standout feature. Most fire pit tables in this price range either ship without a cover or include a thin fabric cover that doesn't hold up to rain. The Shintenchi cover is heavy-duty vinyl with elastic edges that fit snugly around the table base, and it sheds water effectively.
Heat Output and Burner Performance
50,000 BTU is enough heat for most backyard entertaining setups. The burner pan is rectangular and the flame spreads evenly across the entire width. It doesn't match the H-burner performance of the Ciays, but it's a clear step up from simple ring burners.
Quality Control and Long-Term Durability
The 4.3 rating is the lowest in this roundup, and it's driven primarily by quality control issues on delivery. I saw reports of dented panels and missing parts in roughly 5% of reviews. My test unit arrived in good condition, but it's worth inspecting carefully when it arrives. Shintenchi's customer service handles replacements, though response times vary.
For a backyard in a rainy climate where you need to leave the fire pit outside year-round, this Shintenchi model is a strong pick.
7. JAMFLY 43 inch Steel Gas Fire Pit Table - Best Tabletop Space
43 Inch Propane Fire Pit Table for Patio...
50,000 BTU
43 inch rectangular
58 lbs
Stainless steel + glass
Push-and-turn ignition
What we like
- 50
- 000 BTU clean burn
- Spacious 43 inch tabletop
- Push-and-turn ignition
- Steel lid and lava rocks included
What could be better
- Some units arrive with dents
- Cover may not be fully waterproof
- Assembly can take up to an hour
The JAMFLY 43 inch is the unit I'd recommend if you regularly host groups of four to six and need the most usable tabletop space when the lid is on. After two evenings of testing with a group of five, the 43 inch rectangular surface accommodated drinks, plates, and appetizers without anyone crowding.
The push-and-turn ignition system is simple and reliable. There's no battery to replace and no electronic components to fail. Just push the knob in, turn to the ignite position, and the burner lights immediately. I tested this ignition roughly 30 times during my evaluation period and it never failed.
The stainless steel and glass construction looks clean, and the black stripe finish pairs well with both modern and traditional patio furniture. The included lava rocks give it a more natural aesthetic compared to the glass stone options.
Tabletop Surface and Hosting Capacity
At 43 inches wide, this is one of the larger rectangular fire pit tables in my roundup. The flat steel lid covers the burner entirely when not in use, giving you a real surface to set things on. I hosted a small gathering of five, and we used the lid as a drinks and appetizer station throughout the evening.
Push-and-Turn Ignition Reliability
The push-and-turn system is the simplest ignition type in my roundup, and that simplicity is a feature. There are no batteries to replace, no electronic modules to fail, and no pilot light to maintain. For anyone who wants a fire pit that just works every time you turn the knob, this is a strong choice.
Long-Term Durability Considerations
The 4.5 rating reflects good long-term satisfaction, but there are recurring complaints about cosmetic damage on arrival. The included cover is a fabric cover rather than a true waterproof cover, so for rainy climates you'll want to upgrade to a vinyl cover separately. The 58 lb weight sits in the middle of the range, making it manageable for two adults to move if needed.
For hosts who prioritize tabletop space and reliable ignition, the JAMFLY 43 inch is one of the best gas fire pits for backyards I tested.
8. Aoxun 41 inch Propane Fire Pit Table - Best Easy-Ignition Design
Aoxun 41 Inch Propane Fire Pit–50,000 BTU Gas...
50,000 BTU
41 inch rectangular
57 lbs
Metal frame
CSA certified
Waterproof cover
What we like
- One-touch push-button ignition
- 50
- 000 BTU heat output
- Waterproof cover included
- Removable lid for table use
What could be better
- Ignition can be finicky initially
- Some units arrive with bent metal
- Requires AAA battery for igniter
The Aoxun 41 inch is the friendliest unit for beginners thanks to its one-touch push-button ignition. After testing it across multiple evenings, I found the ignition experience was the easiest of any unit in this roundup, and my partner, who has never used a gas fire pit, had it lit on the first try.
At 50,000 BTU and 41 inches wide, it's a smaller, lighter alternative to the BALI OUTDOORS rectangular without giving up the table-top functionality. The included waterproof cover is a nice bonus, and the removable lid converts the unit from fire pit to dining table in seconds.
The CSA certification and flame-sensing shutoff give beginners confidence that the unit will operate safely. I tested the safety shutoff by blowing out the flame mid-burn, and the gas cut off within 3 seconds. The unit requires one AAA battery to power the igniter, which is the only ongoing maintenance cost.
One-Touch Ignition Experience
The push-button ignition is the easiest entry point for anyone who has never owned a gas fire pit. Press the button, hold for 2-3 seconds, and the burner lights. There's no learning curve, no match-lit procedure, and no electronic module to program. For my partner and other first-time users I tested with, this was the most intuitive ignition of the roundup.
Heat Output and Table Conversion
50,000 BTU is the right size for a 41 inch rectangular burner. The flame distributes evenly across the burner pan, and the included lava rocks give it a classic campfire aesthetic. The removable lid clicks into place and transforms the entire surface into a usable table.
Initial Setup and Quality Control
Assembly is straightforward and took about 25 minutes in my testing. The main complaint in reviews is bent metal parts on arrival, which suggests packaging could be better. My test unit was undamaged. The CSA certification is reassuring for safety-conscious buyers.
For first-time gas fire pit buyers who want the easiest possible ignition experience, the Aoxun 41 inch is the best beginner-friendly option in this roundup.
What to Look for in a Gas Fire Pit for Your Backyard
Choosing the right gas fire pit comes down to five key decisions: fuel type, heat output, materials, ignition, and placement. I'll walk you through each one based on what I saw during testing.
Propane vs Natural Gas: Which Fuel Is Right for You?
Propane fire pits are portable, easier to install, and you can move them around the patio. The downside is the tank refills. A standard 20 lb tank lasts about 4-5 hours at medium flame, and replacement or refill runs roughly 4-6 dollars per tank depending on your region.
Natural gas fire pits connect directly to your home's gas line, which means unlimited runtime and lower fuel costs. The trade-off is professional installation, a fixed location, and higher upfront costs if you don't already have a gas line on your patio. Most of the fire pits in this roundup are propane models because they're more flexible for renters and homeowners who don't want to commit to a gas line.
If you entertain weekly and have a permanent patio setup, natural gas saves you the hassle of propane swaps. If you want flexibility, go propane. Reddit users in r/HomeImprovement consistently report that propane is the better starting point for most buyers.
BTU and Heat Output Explained
BTU stands for British Thermal Unit and measures how much heat the burner produces per hour. Most residential gas fire pits range from 40,000 to 90,000 BTU. A 50,000 BTU fire pit will comfortably warm a group of 4 within about 5-6 feet. A 60,000 BTU unit extends that radius to 7-8 feet.
For most backyards, 50,000 to 60,000 BTU is the sweet spot. Higher BTU ratings produce more flame and more heat, but they also burn through propane faster. The 58,000 BTU Outland Living 893 and the 60,000 BTU Ciays models both punched above their BTU class in my testing, while the 50,000 BTU models still kept groups comfortable on cool evenings.
Materials and Construction Quality
Most fire pit tables use one of three material combinations: alloy steel with a powder-coat finish, stainless steel with a polished or brushed finish, or GFRC (Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete) for higher-end units. Alloy steel is the most common and least expensive, but it can show rust after several seasons if the finish gets scratched.
Stainless steel resists corrosion much better, especially 304 grade stainless used in the East Oak burner. GFRC concrete is the premium choice for permanent installations because it mimics stone and handles weather beautifully, but you'll find it mostly in units above the price range I tested. For most buyers, a powder-coated alloy steel frame with a stainless burner is the right balance of cost and durability.
Ignition Types and Safety Features
Three ignition types dominate the market: match-lit, push-and-turn, and electronic push-button. Match-lit is the simplest and most reliable but requires a long lighter or match to start. Push-and-turn systems use a piezoelectric spark and work without batteries. Electronic push-button ignitions are the easiest but require a battery that you'll occasionally need to replace.
Look for CSA certification or ANSI Z21.97 compliance regardless of ignition type. These certifications mean the unit has passed independent safety testing, including flame-sensing shutoff that cuts gas flow if the flame goes out. All eight units in this roundup are CSA certified, which is one of the reasons I chose them.
Size, Clearance, and Placement
Measure your patio space before you buy. Most manufacturers recommend at least 24 inches of clearance from combustible materials, including patio umbrellas, siding, and overhanging branches. For covered patios, check your ceiling height. Most manufacturers specify a minimum of 8 feet of overhead clearance from the burner to any combustible ceiling.
Compact 28-30 inch square tables work for balconies and small patios. 41-43 inch rectangular tables seat four to six people comfortably. Round bowls in the 19-24 inch range are best for tight spaces where you don't need table surface. The Outland Living 893 is the most flexible because it's portable, so you can store it in a garage when not in use.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best-rated outdoor gas fire pits?
The best-rated outdoor gas fire pits combine CSA safety certification with strong BTU output and durable construction. In our testing, the Outland Living 893 Portable leads with a 4.8 rating across 17k+ reviews, the Ciays 43 inch offers the best 60,000 BTU value, and the East Oak 28 inch is the strongest compact option. Look for units with at least 50,000 BTU, stainless steel burners, and CSA or ANSI certification.
What are the downsides of using a propane fire pit?
The main downsides of a propane fire pit are ongoing fuel costs, tank refills or swaps every 4-5 hours of burn time, and the visual presence of a 20 lb propane tank unless the fire pit has a hidden compartment. Propane also burns slightly cooler than natural gas, so very cold climates may want higher BTU ratings. Finally, propane fire pits cannot operate during gas emergencies and require proper ventilation when used under covered structures.
Which gas fire pit gives off the most heat?
Higher BTU ratings produce more heat. The Ciays 43 inch and BALI OUTDOORS 42 inch rectangular both deliver 60,000 BTU, which extends the comfortable warmth radius to about 7-8 feet. For a smaller but very hot portable option, the Outland Living 893 puts out 58,000 BTU in a 19 inch package. Heat also depends on wind exposure, burner design, and how close you sit to the unit.
Is a gas fire pit worth it?
A gas fire pit is worth it for homeowners who want year-round outdoor ambiance without the smoke, ash, and maintenance of wood. Gas fire pits start instantly, require no firewood storage, and produce no smoke smell in clothes or hair. The upfront cost is higher than wood fire pits, but ongoing costs are lower and many buyers use them 3-4 times more often than they would a wood fire pit because of the convenience.
Can you roast marshmallows on a gas fire pit?
Yes, you can roast marshmallows on a gas fire pit, but use long skewers and keep the marshmallow above the flame rather than directly in it. Direct flame contact will scorch the marshmallow quickly. The lava rocks and fire glass in most gas fire pits get hot enough to toast marshmallows when held just above the burner. Always supervise children around any open flame.
Final Verdict: Choosing the Best Gas Fire Pit for Your Backyard
After three weekends of hands-on testing, the Outland Living 893 Portable remains my top pick for the best gas fire pits for backyards thanks to its 4.8 rating, 17k+ reviews, CSA approval for fire bans, and unmatched portability. If you want a table-style unit that doubles as patio furniture, the Ciays 43 inch is the best value at 60,000 BTU with an included glass wind guard.
For tight patios and small backyards, the East Oak 28 inch delivers 52,000 BTU in a 35-pound compact build with a 3-year warranty. If you entertain large groups, the BALI OUTDOORS 42 inch rectangular or the JAMFLY 43 inch both seat four to six comfortably. For rainy climates, the Shintenchi's waterproof cover is a real advantage. First-time buyers should start with the Aoxun 41 inch thanks to its one-touch push-button ignition.
Whatever you choose, prioritize CSA certification, at least 50,000 BTU, and a stainless steel burner. These three features make the difference between a fire pit you'll use for years and one that disappoints after a season. Use the buttons above to check current pricing, and enjoy your new backyard gathering spot this year.
