Choosing a gas fire pit is mostly a matter of matching the fuel, the size and the build to the space you have. We have not used these products ourselves, so this page does not rank anything by personal experience. Instead it lays out the factors that set one model apart from another, so you can read a product listing with a clear checklist in hand.
Gas fire pits come in two broad fuel types, propane tank models and natural gas models fed from a house line. The shape of the bowl, the burner and the surround all change how the unit looks and how it behaves outdoors. Read the maker’s manual and your local rules before buying.
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What to Look For
| Factor | Why it matters | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel type | Decides where the unit can sit and how it is supplied | Whether the listing names propane, natural gas or both, and if a conversion kit is included |
| Burner design | Shapes the flame pattern and how evenly it spreads across the bowl | Burner shape, burner material and how the maker describes flame height control |
| Surround material | Affects weight, weather resistance and overall look | Steel, concrete blend, aluminum or stone-look finish, plus the maker’s care notes |
| Size and shape | Sets how many people can sit around it comfortably | Outer width, height and the clearance the maker asks for on every side |
| Ignition and controls | Changes how easy it is to light and adjust the flame | Push button or electronic ignition, valve type and any battery requirement |
| Cover and accessories | Protects the unit between uses and affects fit | Whether a cover, lid or fill media comes in the box or is sold apart |
| Portability | Matters if you move it between seasons or between spaces | Listed weight, handles, and whether the tank hides inside the base |
Setup and Care Tips
- Read the maker’s manual in full before the first use and keep it somewhere easy to find.
- Place the unit on a level surface and keep to the clearances the maker lists for walls, furniture and overhead cover.
- Keep fill media dry and clean, and replace it when the maker advises.
- Use a fitted cover between uses to keep rain, leaves and debris out of the burner area.
- Hire a licensed installer for any permanent gas line work instead of attempting it yourself.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Choosing on looks alone without checking your fuel supply.
- Ignoring the footprint, so the unit crowds the patio or leaves too little room for seating.
- Skipping your local rules about open flames and outdoor fuel use.
- Assuming every accessory is included, when covers and fill media are often sold separately.
- Overlooking how the tank fits, since some bases hide it and others leave it exposed.
FAQ
Should I choose propane or natural gas?
Propane suits a unit you want to move around, because the tank travels with it. Natural gas suits a fixed spot near a house line, and the hookup should be done by a licensed professional. Check the listing for the fuel the model supports before you compare anything else.
How large a fire pit does my space need?
Measure the area first, then subtract the clearance the maker asks for around the unit. What remains is the room you have for the pit itself plus seating. A slightly smaller unit with comfortable space around it usually serves a patio better than a large one that fills it.
The Short Version
Settle the fuel type first, then match the size to your space, then compare burner design, surround material and included accessories. Read the maker’s manual, follow local rules, and use the checklist above to judge any listing on its stated details.
