Propane vs Wood-Burning Fire Pits: The Complete Buying Guide
Nothing extends backyard season like a fire pit — cool spring evenings, summer nights, and crisp fall weekends all get better around a flame. The big decision: propane or wood-burning? Here’s an honest breakdown of both.
Propane Fire Pits: Instant Ambiance
Propane fire pits and fire pit tables run on a standard 20 lb propane tank (the same one your grill uses) hidden inside the base. Turn a knob, press the ignition, and you have flames in seconds.
Pros:
- Instant on/off — no building, tending, or extinguishing a fire
- No smoke, no sparks, no ash cleanup
- Usable in many areas where wood fires are banned or restricted
- Table designs double as outdoor furniture with a lid for drinks and snacks
- Safe distance control — adjustable flame height
Cons:
- Less heat output than a roaring wood fire
- Tank refills to keep track of (a 20 lb tank lasts roughly 4–8 hours on high)
- No crackle, no wood smell, no marshmallow-roasting purists’ approval
Wood-Burning Fire Pits: The Real Deal
A wood fire delivers serious heat, the classic crackle, and that campfire smell people love (or their laundry doesn’t).
Pros:
- Highest heat output — keeps a whole circle of chairs warm
- Authentic experience: crackling, s’mores, real flames
- Fuel is cheap or free if you have firewood on hand
Cons:
- Smoke follows you around the circle
- Sparks require a screen and safe clearance from structures
- Ash cleanup after every use
- Banned during burn restrictions in many regions
Safety & Placement Basics
- Place any fire pit at least 10–20 feet from your house, fence, or overhanging branches.
- Set it on a non-flammable surface — pavers, gravel, or concrete, never a wooden deck (unless using a heat shield rated for it).
- Check local regulations: many municipalities allow propane but restrict wood fires.
- Keep a hose or extinguisher within reach, and never leave flames unattended.
Which One Is Right for You?
Go propane if you want convenience, clean burning, and a stylish fire table for entertaining on a patio. Go wood-burning if you want maximum heat and the full campfire experience in an open yard.
Browse our selection of propane fire pit tables and wood-burning fire pits — free shipping on orders over $300.
