> Editorial Note: I’m Liam Wright, an outdoor and garden editor. I grew up in my family’s landscaping business and now cover what actually survives a season of UV, rain, and freeze-thaw cycles. The picks here are evaluated against ASTM weatherability standards and manufacturer durability ratings.
Choosing between a propane fire pit and a natural gas fire pit isn’t about the flame, they burn almost identically, it’s about the fuel line behind it and how permanent you want the setup to be. Propane runs off a portable tank, so it works anywhere and moves with you, but you’ll refill the tank and pay more per hour of burn. Natural gas plumbs into your home’s gas line for an endless, cheaper supply that never needs refilling, at the cost of a fixed location and a professional install. Whether you rent or own, how often you’ll use it, and whether you want portability decide it. If you’re building out the yard, pair your pick with the best fire pit under 200, the propane vs wood fire pit guide, the best patio furniture set, the best outdoor string lights, and the best small patio furniture set to finish the space.
The Key Differences at a Glance
| Factor | Propane Fire Pit | Natural Gas Fire Pit |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel source | Portable 20-lb tank | Home gas line, plumbed in |
| Portability | Fully movable | Fixed permanent location |
| Refueling | Refill/swap tank (~$20) | Never, continuous supply |
| Running cost | Higher per hour | Lower per hour |
| Install | Plug-and-play, no install | Professional gas line hookup |
| Upfront cost | Lower (no install) | Higher (install + line) |
| Best for | Renters, movable setups | Homeowners, frequent use |
When a Propane Fire Pit Wins
Propane wins on flexibility. Because it runs off a self-contained 20-lb tank, a propane pit works anywhere, on a patio, a deck, a balcony, or wherever you drag it, with no install, no plumbing, and no permit. You buy it, hide the tank in the base, and light it the same day. For renters or anyone who might move, that portability is the whole argument.
It’s also the lower upfront cost, since there’s no gas line to run. A natural gas hookup means paying a professional to tap and plumb the line, which can add substantially to the total. A propane pit skips all of that, so you’re spending money on the pit itself, not on installation.
The trade-offs are refueling and per-hour cost. A 20-lb tank fuels several evenings and costs roughly $20 to refill or swap, but you will run out mid-gathering at some point, and propane costs more per BTU than piped natural gas. Tanks also need safe storage and periodic swaps. If you value moving your pit freely, avoiding install costs, and using it occasionally rather than nightly, propane earns it. Just keep a spare tank on hand.
When a Natural Gas Fire Pit Wins
Natural gas wins for homeowners who’ll use the pit a lot. Plumbed into your home’s gas supply, it never runs out and never needs a tank swap, so you get unlimited burn time and you never interrupt a good evening to change fuel. For a permanent backyard setup you’ll fire up several nights a week, that convenience is decisive.
Running cost is the long-term edge. Piped natural gas is cheaper per BTU than propane, so the more you use the pit, the more the lower fuel cost pays back the higher install. A frequent user recoups the plumbing expense over time in fuel savings, while an occasional user may not, which is why usage frequency drives this decision.
Natural gas also cleans up the look. There’s no tank to hide, no bulge in the base, just a clean line running to a fixed pit. The trade-offs are permanence and install: you need a professional to run the gas line, the pit stays put wherever that line ends, and the upfront cost is higher. It’s the wrong pick for renters or anyone who might relocate. If you own your home, want endless cheaper fuel, and will use the pit often, natural gas is the pick.
Cost, Durability, and Maintenance
Upfront, propane is cheaper because there’s no install, you buy the pit and you’re done. Natural gas costs more to start, since running and connecting the line requires a professional and the plumbing itself. But the running cost flips: natural gas is cheaper per hour of burn, so heavy users save over time while the tank swaps and higher per-BTU cost of propane add up for frequent burning. Match the choice to how often you’ll actually light it.
Durability is identical between the two, because it’s the pit’s build, not the fuel, that determines lifespan. Look for CSA-certified, powder-coated, or stainless steel construction that resists rust through freeze-thaw cycles, and a defined BTU rating in the 40,000 to 60,000 range for real warmth. Consumer Reports notes that housing material and coating, not fuel type, drive how long an outdoor appliance lasts. Both fuel types use the same burners, igniters, and glass or lava media, so ASTM weatherability comes down to the housing and a good cover.
Maintenance is low and similar. Keep fire glass and burner ports clear of debris, wipe the surface, and always use a weatherproof cover, the single biggest factor in how long any pit survives outdoors. Propane adds tank care: store tanks upright in a ventilated space, check the regulator and hose for leaks with soapy water, and swap tanks that are dented or expired. Natural gas has no tank to manage, but any line work or leak should go to a professional. Cover either one, and it lasts for many seasons.
Our Top Picks for Each
Every pick below clears a 4.6 owner rating and lists a defined BTU output, the spec that separates a pit that warms a circle from one that just flickers. Note this lineup is propane fire pits, since that’s what dominates this category; a natural gas version of a similar pit uses the same build with a line hookup instead of a tank, so treat these as the propane side of the decision. Start with #1 for the most portable smokeless bowl; jump to a table model if you want a surface around the flame.
Outland Living 893 Deluxe Portable Propane Fire Pit, 19-inch 58,000 BTU with Cover & Carry Kit, Smokeless Gas Firebowl for Patio, Camping & Backyard
Pros
- Quick, smokeless flame with adjustable heat output and no firewood or ash to clean up
- Complete kit out of the box with cover, carry straps, lava rocks, and pre-attached hose and regulator
- Durable steel construction with enamel finish and stainless steel burner backed by very high customer ratings
- Truly portable and easy to assemble, making it practical for both home and travel use
- CSA certification allows safer use during many fire restrictions
Cons
- Standard 20-lb propane tank is not included and must be purchased separately
- Manual ignition means you light it with a match or lighter rather than a push-button starter
- Produces ambient warmth rather than the intense radiant heat of a large wood fire, so it is best for small gatherings
If you have ever wanted a fire on the patio but dreaded hauling firewood, stoking flames, and scrubbing ash the next morning, this is the easy answer. The Outland 893 Deluxe lights in minutes, glows over a bed of natural lava rock, and shuts off cleanly when you are done. It feels like a real campfire without any of the work.
In a real outdoor space it reads as a tidy, intentional centerpiece rather than a bulky appliance. The matte black bowl and chrome knob look at home on a deck, around a set of lounge chairs, or at the center of a small patio gathering. At 19 inches and 23 pounds it stays put when you want it to and travels easily when you do not, so the same fire pit that anchors your backyard can come along camping or tailgating.
If you want cozy, smokeless fireside ambiance you can enjoy on a whim without the mess and labor of real wood, this one delivers.
Styles it works with: Modern Farmhouse, Minimalist, Industrial, Transitional outdoor decor
Best placed in: backyard patio seating area, deck corner, or as a portable centerpiece for camping and tailgating setups
May not suit: fully enclosed indoor rooms or covered spaces without ventilation, and very large patios where a single 19-inch bowl may feel undersized as a heat source
Buy it if:
- You want fireside ambiance on your patio or deck without dealing with firewood, smoke, or ash
- You camp, RV, or tailgate and need a portable fire option that is allowed during many burn bans
- You want a complete kit with cover, carry straps, and lava rocks ready to use right out of the box
Consider waiting if:
- You prefer push-button automatic ignition, in which case the Premium model with that feature may be a better fit
- You want a larger bowl, since the 21-inch Cypress or 24-inch Mega put out the same BTU over a wider flame
Skip it if:
- You need an indoor heater or a high-output radiant heat source for a large open area
- You do not have access to a standard 20-lb propane tank and prefer a wood-burning fire
Check the latest price and availability on Amazon before it sells out.
R.W.FLAME 43-Inch Propane Fire Pit Table, 50,000 BTU Outdoor Gas Firepit with Glass Stones & Waterproof Cover
Pros
- Strong 50,000 BTU heat output covers large seating areas effectively
- CSA safety certification provides peace of mind for outdoor use
- Multi-functional design with removable lid works as fire pit or outdoor table
- Included glass stones and waterproof cover add value at this price point
- Smokeless propane burns clean without ash cleanup or wood storage needs
Cons
- Propane tank sold separately and visible during use may affect aesthetic
- 43-inch size requires adequate patio space and may overwhelm smaller balconies
- Assembly required though instructions are provided
This fire pit table strikes that sweet spot between function and atmosphere. The 50,000 BTU output genuinely warms your space (not just decorative flames), while the glass stones catch and reflect the firelight beautifully. It feels more like permanent patio furniture than camping gear.
What sets it apart is the removable lid that converts it to a regular table. Spring through fall, it is your fire pit. During off-season or when you need table space for food and drinks, pop the lid on. The integrated cup holders are a thoughtful touch that shows they actually considered how people use these things.
If you want a four-season outdoor centerpiece that handles both intimate evenings and larger gatherings without constantly tending to wood or dealing with smoke, this one delivers.
Styles it works with: Modern Farmhouse, Contemporary, Transitional, Rustic
Best placed in: Patio seating areas, backyard deck centers, poolside lounging zones, covered outdoor living rooms
May not suit: Small apartment balconies under 100 square feet, homes with very young children who need extra distance from open flames, ultra-minimalist spaces where the black square design may feel too heavy
Buy it if:
- You host outdoor gatherings regularly and want a focal point that keeps guests comfortable
- You need a fire feature that works as functional furniture when not lit
- You prefer the convenience and cleanliness of propane over wood-burning options
- You have adequate patio space for a 43-inch square footprint
Consider waiting if:
- You are hoping for a round design or different color option to match existing furniture
- You want to compare heat output during a cooler month when you can truly test performance
Skip it if:
- Your outdoor space is under 80 square feet or you need something portable
- You strongly prefer the authentic crackle and aroma of wood-burning fire pits
Check the latest price and availability on Amazon before it sells out.
Ciays 24 Inch Propane Fire Pit, 58,000 BTU Portable Gas Fire Pit with Grill Grate, Folding Legs, Cover & Carry Strap
Pros
- Strong 58,000 BTU output heats a sizable gathering area
- Truly portable with folding legs, carry strap, and a 10 ft preassembled hose
- Safety features include piezo ignition and automatic flameout protection
- Rust-proof cast iron grate adds grilling capability and durability
- Comes with a full accessory set, including a cover for storage
Cons
- Requires a separate propane tank that is not included, adding to the real cost and footprint
- At 24 inches it is larger and heavier than the smaller variants, which matters if you pack light for camping
- Propane flames do not produce the crackle and ambiance some buyers want from a wood fire
There is something easy about a fire pit that just works. Push the piezo ignition, hold for a few seconds, and you have a clean, smoke-free flame without the fuss of kindling or the cloud of smoke that chases everyone around the patio. The 58,000 BTU output throws real warmth, so this is the kind of centerpiece that pulls people in on a cool evening.
In a real outdoor space it reads as a tidy, modern hearth. The painted finish and round 24 inch profile look at home on a patio, a deck, or a gravel corner of the yard, and the lava rock bed gives it a finished, glowing look once lit. Drop the cast iron grate on top and it shifts from cozy gathering spot to a quick grilling station, which makes it earn its footprint.
If you want reliable, smoke-free warmth you can move from backyard to campsite without wrestling a heavy fixture, this one delivers.
Styles it works with: Modern Farmhouse, Rustic Outdoor, Minimalist, Industrial
Best placed in: patio seating area, backyard deck corner, campsite gathering spot
May not suit: small balconies where a 24 inch footprint plus a propane tank crowds the space, or anyone who specifically wants the crackle and ambiance of a real wood fire
Buy it if:
- You want smoke-free warmth for patio gatherings without the cleanup of wood ash
- You camp or travel and need a fire pit that folds down and carries with a strap
- You live where wood campfire bans are common and need a propane alternative
Consider waiting if:
- You want a smaller footprint and would prefer the 19 inch or 21 inch size for tighter spaces
Skip it if:
- You want the crackle and aroma of a real wood fire
- You have no way to store or transport a separate propane tank
Check the latest price and availability on Amazon before it sells out.
Ciays 21 Inch Propane Fire Pit with Grill Grate & Folding Legs, 58,000 BTU, Portable Smokeless Outdoor Fire Pit, Black
Pros
- Genuinely portable with foldable legs and an included carrying strap
- Strong 58,000 BTU heat output for its compact size
- Built-in safety features including flameout protection and battery-free piezo ignition
- Rust-proof cast iron grate adds cooking versatility
- Generous accessory bundle means no extra purchases to get started
Cons
- Requires a separate propane tank that is not included
- At 21 inches it serves a small to medium gathering, not large crowds
- Metal painted finish and exposed propane hose lean utilitarian rather than decorative
There is something easy to love about a fire pit that does the work for you. This Ciays 21 inch model lights with a quick push and turn of the piezo ignition, throws off a warm 58,000 BTU glow, and skips the smoke that usually chases everyone around the patio. No hauling firewood, no fanning embers, just heat when you want it.
In a real backyard it reads clean and low profile. The round black metal body sits close to the ground on its folding legs, the lava rock gives the flame a soft even spread, and the cast iron grate means you can warm your hands one minute and toast something over it the next. When the night winds down, the legs fold flat and the whole thing tucks away with the included carrying strap.
If you want reliable smoke-free warmth you can pack up and take anywhere without the mess of a wood fire, this one delivers.
Styles it works with: Modern Farmhouse, Rustic, Industrial, Minimalist outdoor spaces
Best placed in: backyard patio seating area, deck corner, campsite gathering spot
May not suit: indoor rooms or fully enclosed spaces, and homes wanting a purely decorative piece since the exposed propane hose and tank are functional rather than polished
Buy it if:
- You want a portable fire pit you can move between the patio and the campsite
- You live somewhere with seasonal wood campfire bans and still want a real flame
- You like the idea of cooking over the fire with the included cast iron grate
Consider waiting if:
- You need a larger 24 inch size for bigger gatherings, since that size is offered separately
Skip it if:
- You want a wood-burning fire for the crackle and aroma
- You need a built-in decorative table fire feature rather than a functional portable unit
Check the latest price and availability on Amazon before it sells out.
Pros
- Strong 58,000 BTU output produces noticeable warmth for groups
- Genuinely portable with folding legs and included carry strap
- Rust-proof cast iron grate adds grilling capability
- Complete accessory bundle means no extra purchases to get started
- Battery-free piezo ignition is simple and dependable
Cons
- Requires a separate propane tank that is not included with the fire pit
- At 19 inches it is sized for portability, so it heats a smaller area than larger stationary models
- Painted finish on a portable unit may show wear over time with frequent transport and outdoor exposure
There is something easygoing about a fire pit you can actually pick up and move. This Ciays runs on propane, so the moment you want warmth you push the knob, hold for a few seconds, and you have a clean flame with none of the smoke that follows you around a wood fire. The cast iron grate sitting on top gives it a sturdy, practical look that feels at home on a patio or a campsite picnic table.
In a real outdoor space it reads as compact and tidy rather than bulky. The lava rock spreads the flame into a soft glow, and because it folds down to roughly 19 by 8 inches with a carry strap, it tucks away in a garage or the trunk of a car when the evening winds down. It is the kind of piece that fits into everyday living, from a weeknight on the deck to a weekend trip when fire bans rule out a real campfire.
If you want portable, smoke-free warmth you can take anywhere without committing to a heavy permanent fixture, this one delivers.
Styles it works with: Modern Farmhouse, Rustic Outdoor, Casual Contemporary, Camp and Cabin
Best placed in: patio seating area, backyard deck corner, campsite gathering spot
May not suit: indoor rooms or covered porches without proper ventilation, and large open areas where a bigger stationary fire feature would heat the space better
Buy it if:
- You camp or travel and want a fire you can use even during wood-burning bans
- You want smoke-free outdoor warmth on a patio or deck without a permanent install
- You like the idea of grilling and warming up with the same portable setup
Consider waiting if:
- You need a larger size, as this comes in 19, 21, and 24 inch options that may suit bigger gatherings better
Skip it if:
- You want a wood-burning fire experience or need to heat a large open area from a fixed location
Check the latest price and availability on Amazon before it sells out.
The Outland Living Portable Propane Fire Pit is the one I’d point most people toward on the propane side. At 19 inches and 58,000 BTU with a smokeless firebowl, cover, and carry kit, it’s built to move, exactly propane’s strength, so it goes camping, tailgating, or patio to patio. At a 4.8 owner rating it’s the highest-scored pick here. If portability is why you’re choosing propane, this is the cleanest expression of that.
The R.W.Flame 43-Inch Propane Fire Pit Table is the table-style pick, a 50,000 BTU rectangle with glass stones, waterproof cover, and a removable lid that turns it into a side table when off. It’s the choice when you want a surface for drinks around the flame rather than a bare bowl. At a 4.6 rating it’s a solid all-rounder. Choose it to anchor a seating area with a functional table.
The Ciays 24-Inch Propane Fire Pit brings a grill grate, folding legs, hose hooks, and a tank holder, so it’s the pick when you want cooking capability and easy transport in one propane unit. The folding legs and integrated tank management make setup and storage simple. At a 4.6 rating it’s a versatile mid-size bowl. Pick it if you want to roast over the flame and still move the pit easily.
The Ciays 21-Inch Propane Fire Pit is the more compact sibling at 58,000 BTU with the same grill grate and folding legs, so it’s the smaller-footprint pick for tighter patios that still want high heat and cooking ability. Also at a 4.6 rating, it trades a little size for portability. Choose it over the 24-inch when space is tight but you still want strong output and a grate.
The Ciays 19-Inch Propane Fire Pit rounds out the group as the smallest of the three Ciays bowls, with the grill grate, folding legs, hose hooks, and tank holder in the most portable size. At a 4.6 rating it matches its siblings on quality. This is the pick when maximum portability and cooking in a minimal footprint matter most, closest in spirit to the Outland but with a built-in grate.
The Verdict
For a renter, a movable setup, or anyone who uses a pit occasionally, propane is the winner, it works anywhere with no install and lower upfront cost, and the Outland Living portable bowl is where I’d start for its 58,000 BTU output and top 4.8 rating. For a homeowner who’ll fire it up several nights a week, natural gas wins, because endless cheaper fuel and no tank swaps pay back the install over time. If you want propane’s flexibility plus cooking, the Ciays 24-inch with its grill grate is the honest middle path. Skip natural gas if you rent or might move, that permanent line is exactly the wrong commitment when your address isn’t.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is natural gas cheaper to run than propane?
Yes, per BTU. Piped natural gas costs less per hour of burn than propane, so frequent users save money over time. The catch is the higher upfront install for the gas line. Occasional users may never recoup that cost, while someone burning the pit several nights a week will. Usage frequency decides which is cheaper overall.
Can I convert a propane fire pit to natural gas?
Sometimes, with a conversion kit and a professional. Many pits are built for one fuel, but some offer conversion kits that swap the orifice and regulator for the other gas. Any conversion and line work should be done by a licensed pro for safety. Check the manufacturer’s specs before assuming a pit can switch fuels.
Do I need a professional to install a natural gas fire pit?
Yes. Running and connecting a natural gas line requires a licensed professional to tap the supply, size the line, and check for leaks safely. This is the main upfront cost of natural gas. Propane, by contrast, is plug-and-play with a tank and needs no professional install.
How long does a propane tank last in a fire pit?
Several evenings, depending on BTU and flame height. A standard 20-lb tank running a 50,000 BTU pit at full flame lasts a handful of hours; at a lower ambient setting it stretches much further. Keep a spare tank on hand so you don’t run out mid-gathering, and refills run about $20.
Which is safer, propane or natural gas?
Both are safe when installed and used correctly. Propane requires safe upright tank storage and leak checks on the hose and regulator; natural gas requires a professionally installed, leak-checked line. Neither is inherently more dangerous, follow the manufacturer’s clearances, keep the burner clear, and address any gas smell immediately with the supply shut off.
Can natural gas fire pits be moved?
No, not easily. A natural gas pit is plumbed to a fixed line, so it stays where that line ends, which is exactly why it suits permanent setups and not renters. If you want to reposition or relocate your pit, propane’s portable tank is the only practical choice.
Bottom Line
Propane is the one most people should buy for flexibility and low upfront cost, since it works anywhere with no install, and the Outland Living portable bowl leads for its 58,000 BTU output and 4.8 rating. For a homeowner using the pit several nights a week, natural gas wins because endless cheaper fuel pays back the install over time. Match the fuel to how often and how permanently you’ll use it, then cover the pit through winter.
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