Outdoor fire fixtures are the perfect way to create a cozy atmosphere in the comfort of your own backyard. Whether you go with a fire pit, a fire pit table, or both, there’s a lot to enjoy. This guide on fire pit tables vs fire pits will help you figure out exactly which type to choose, so keep reading to learn how to get the most out of your backyard.
What is a fire pit?
Fire pits are a hole or structure that’s designed to contain a fire. They’re a pretty broad category, encompassing everything from a hand-dug dirt hole to a luxurious, glass-encased fixture. As long as they hold a fire and contain it, they meet the qualifications for a fire pit—but most store-bought fire pits are pretty snazzy.
The best outdoor fire pits come in three main types: Wood fire pits, propane fire pits, and portable fire pits. Wood fire pits tend to be wide, large, and shallow, with lots of room for firewood and fuel. They’re a simple, popular choice for a camp-style fire. Propane fire pits are often smaller and elevated above a fuel tank. Portable fire pits are typically smaller and lighter, made from metal and small enough to fit into a trunk or on a table.
Go for a classic
Round, metal fire pits are a classic design that’s easy to move on your own.
Fire pits are available in a variety of different shapes and sizes, but their functions are pretty consistent. They’re a great choice of outdoor decor if you’re looking to create a safe fire with a strong heat output and a traditional, rustic vibe. Most backyard fire pit ideas centre around the fire pit as the focal point of the backyard, wrapping the rest of the yard around the cozy, warm fire pit.
If you’re not sure about a fire pit, you may want to look into a fire pit table instead. Fire pits tend to take up quite a bit of square footage, and they aren’t always the best choice for drinking or dining around as they sit wide and low to the ground. If those would be issues for you, a fire pit table is the better choice for your situation!
Choose party-ready portability
This wood-burning portable fire pit is designed to be smokeless and features a built-in ash catcher. It’s a great option for small spaces and backyard parties!
What is a fire pit table?
A fire pit table is similar to a fire pit, but with a narrower scope. They’re typically taller than your usual fire pit, and they have a table or lip to hold items like food or drinks. Fire pit tables do triple duty as decor, furniture, and heating elements. They’re a great way to work a multi-purpose design into your backyard or patio, with stylish, safe designs that typically conceal your table’s fuel tank.
Fire pit tables are generally a bit pricier and cooler than fire pits, but that’s somewhat by nature. As double-duty items, they’re priced, sized, and built like furniture—which they are. Their lower heat output is also a feature, not a flaw, as it makes them more comfortable to sit around closely without roasting your dishes or boiling your drinks.
Find a two-in-one piece
Fire pit tables like this one from Gymax serve double duty. Part table and part fire, they create coziness while also giving you a place to set down your drinks, snacks, and heatproof décor.
Key differences between fire pit vs fire pit tables
When you’re looking at fire pit tables vs fire pits, you’ll see a number of similarities—and a lot of differences. These similar products serve surprisingly different functions, which makes it easy to decide which option is right for you. Make sure to read over this fire pit vs fire pit table comparison to make your decision.
| Function | Fire Pits | Fire Pit Tables |
| Design and functionality | Focused on creating ambiance and heat | Focused on creating ambiance and a space for entertaining |
| Heat output | Offers stronger heat for colder nights | Offers cozy warmth for up-close use |
| Safety and maintenance | Covered with a spark screen while in use | Smaller, open flames |
| Fuel | Can be wood, propane, or natural gas. Wood and propane are most common. | Can be wood, propane, or natural gas. Propane or natural gas are most common. |
| Budget | $-$$ | $$-$$$$ |
In the chart above, you’ll notice some overlap in the types of fuel used by fire pits and fire pit tables. The wide range of options for each gives you a lot of flexibility—and can make it easier to achieve exactly the effect you’re looking for for your backyard.
A common comparison is propane fire pits vs fire pit tables, as fire pit tables tend to be fuelled by propane. The two options will, due simply to their fuel type, deliver a very similar experience. You can fine-tune your choice based simply on your desired design, without fuel ever being a complicating factor.
Which one fits your lifestyle?
If you’re looking to get a handle on fire pits and fire tables without reading a full outdoor fire pit buying guide, here’s the simple shorthand that you need to know:
- Fire pit tables are best for entertaining, dining, and modern decor. They’re a great choice for people who love to host and who live in more moderate climates. They offer a ledge or tabletop to put your food and drinks on.
- Fire pits are best for camping vibes, rustic aesthetics, and chilly backyards. They’re a great choice for people on a budget and people who want more warmth from their fire.
- If you have the space for both and you don’t want to choose, you can absolutely have both in your outdoor space! Use your fire pit table for entertaining, having drinks and snacks with friends, and sitting close together on chilly days. Then, move your guests to your fire pit itself for s’mores nights, colder fall and winter nights, and general ambiance.
Select the unexpected
Not all fire pits look the same. Unusual finds like this one by Outsunny are part fire pit, part modern art piece. No matter your sense of style, you’ll be able to find a fire pit or fire pit table to match it.
Style & material considerations
Both fire pits and fire pit tables come in a variety of different styles, finishes, and shapes. I recommend opting for more “natural” shapes to achieve a more rustic-looking back yard. Choose round fire pits over square ones, and go for metal and rock-like stone over glass.
If you prefer a cleaner, more modern aesthetic, I recommend choosing something with long, clean lines. Try a rectangular fire pit table, and go for finishes like smooth stone and glass.
Metal, stone, and glass fire pits all perform well under their own heat (and heat differentials), so you don’t need to alter your choices for durability. Instead, make sure to consider your fire pit or fire pit table’s users and environment. Controllable propane flames are often preferred by those in drier climates and people with kids, as wood-fuelled heating sources spit hot embers during their usage. The effect is nostalgic and rustic, but can be more dangerous!
Take fuel safety seriously
When enjoying a wood-burning fireplace like this one, it’s important to follow your basic fire safety rules. Make sure to use your spark screen, set up your fire pit on a clear area with no dry grass around, and keep a fire extinguishing method on hand nearby. Always check your local area for any fire bans or guidelines before starting a fire, because there’s nothing more important than the safety of you and your community.
In conclusion
The best fire pit table isn’t one, definitive product. Instead, it’s simply the one that works best for your space. With so many different options for fire pit tables vs fire pits, it’s easy to choose the ideal fixture for your backyard or patio. With the knowledge you’ve picked up in this fire pit guide, it’ll be easy to find the perfect one for you.
Shop fire pits online at Best Buy today.
