The first time I saw a fire pit at my neighbor's, I knew that I just had to get one of my own.
It’s just so fun to sit and watch or sing songs around one to create memories! And since getting one, I remember spending many cold nights around the fire, making smores and sipping hot chocolate with my loved ones. Having a fire pit is a great way to gather the ones you care about and spend the holidays together.
But when I was looking to buy one, my husband insisted on a cylinder one because it would “heat everyone evenly”; whatever that meant. So I, Stacy Smith, looked far and wide to find the best cylinder fire pit.
If you, too, are looking for this unique fire pit, then look no further. I have done the research for you and included the top five models as well as how to pick the right one for you.
With that said, let’s get right into it, shall we?
Top 5 Cylinder Fire Pit Reviews
1. Solo Stove Ranger
Solo Stove has combined engineering and modern design into a beautifully crafted, portable fire pit. The uniquely designed cylinder pit allows for a low smoke fire so it can be enjoyed without the discomfort of a thick cloud of smoke.
Product Highlights
The Ranger fire pit from Solo Stove is a feat of engineering, to say the least. The patent-pending design allows the fire to receive maximum airflow without giving off heavy smoke. Of course, all this is done without the use of batteries or fans and with just scientific engineering.
Additionally, the fire burns more efficiently in the Ranger, which means there are no more half-burned logs to deal with. Particles from the wood that would have become smoke are burned up by the top vents of the fire pit.
With such efficient performance, it may seem like this unit needs assembly or will be hefty; however, this is not the case. It has a one-piece construction and does not need to be put together. Furthermore, it only weighs 17 pounds, so it is effortless to take along on trips or carry around.
What's There To Like About It?
In particular, I found the efficient burning and low-smoke features to be incredibly useful. I can’t count the number of times I have had to adjust my seating because too much smoke was getting in my eyes from my previous fire fit.
Moreover, the unique design is helpful in making sure every bit of firewood was used. Thanks to the efficient fire pit, I definitely felt like I got my money’s worth out of the firewood.
What's There Not To Like About It?
Even though the Ranger is lightweight and easy to carry around, this also acted as a handicap to some degree. To keep it compact and easy to use, the design has quite a small footprint. So, if you are looking for a fire pit that is wide, then you may be better off looking into another model.
Pros and Cons of Solo Stove Ranger
Pros
Cons
- PORTABLE FIRE POWER: Solo Stove Ranger is our most compact outdoor fire pits or camping heater, pushes the limits of both combustion airflow efficiency and portability. It was brilliantly engineered to provide a low smoke fire that cannot be duplicated. This camping stove Patent pending design sold over $1. 7M in pre-orders on Kickstarter in 2018.
- LESS SMOKE, MORE FLAME: The camping stove has double wall design which maximizes airflow and burning process, with bottom vent holes allow oxygen to the feed the fire from below while the double walls warm it, creating a burst of hot air over the fire reducing the smoke without the use of batteries and fans in your fireplaces.
- A MORE EFFICIENT BURN: A more complete burn means the little particles that would have been smoke are burned up by the top vents. It also means no more half burned logs to deal with this smokeless fire pit.
2. Outland Living 870
Designed as an alternative to campfires, the 870 from Outland Living is a propane-fueled fire pit that is perfect for your next get-together. Measuring 19 inches in diameter, this is one fire pit that can easily warm everyone up.
Product Highlights
A clean user experience is a highlight feature of the 870 fire pit. Since it’s fueled by propane, there is no need for firewood and no ash to clean up as well. Breathing and eye irritants are also eliminated as the propane flame does not give off any smoke.
Outland Living also includes a kit with the 870 that includes a pre-attached ten feet hose to connect the pit to a tank. It also has an adjustable regulator to control the height of the flame. The aesthetics of the model were not brushed over either, as the brand includes four pounds of natural lava rock to enhance the flickering effect of the fire.
In order to have the easiest fire pit experience possible, it has an auto-ignition feature that does not use any sparks. As such, it can be easily started in any weather condition.
What's There To Like About It?
I find starting a fire in the fire pit to be increasingly challenging and a hassle. However, the auto-ignition feature of this unit has come in handy and doesn’t even need a match to light! I can now get a flame going and even control how big it gets, all at the turn of a knob.
Additionally, the included kit with the lava rocks and carrying bag was a nice touch to make it the perfect fire pit for camping trips.
What's There Not To Like About It?
One slight inconvenience that I noticed after using the 870 for some time was the rate at which it consumes propane. Even connecting it to my largest tank would see it emptied out after just a few uses. It is definitely not the most economical option unless you have a surplus of propane tanks lying about.
Pros and Cons of Outland Living 870
Pros
Cons
- ✓ PERFECT NO MESS CAMPFIRE: Say goodbye to dirty ash, expensive firewood, and bothersome smoke and enjoy a clean realistic propane campfire. The perfect outdoor centerpiece for camping trips, RV travels, tailgating get-togethers, beach parties, and family evenings on the backyard patio.
- ✓ COMPACT AND EASY TO TRANSPORT: Travel size fire pit is lightweight and portable; easily set up in minutes with no tools required. Matchless auto-ignition feature ensures a fast and simple start-up; all weather fire bowl delivers a clean and smokeless flame with cozy warmth and beautiful evening ambiance. Measures L 19” x W 19” x H 11” with total output of 58,000 BTU/HR.
- ✓ BEAT THE CAMPFIRE BAN: CSA approved fire pit is safe to use during most campfire bans; always check with the current fire restrictions in your area. Spark free propane campfire helps protect campgrounds and forested areas with a safer easy-to-use fire option. No assembly required
3. Limor Propane Fire Pit
With a clean combustion system, this propane fire pit from Limor has an incredible heat output of 40,000 BTU. Measuring 20 inches in diameter, it is the perfect combination of portability and functionality, no matter where you take it.
Product Highlights
Liquid propane fire pits have the advantage of being a smoke-less and ash-free alternative to traditional fire pits. These helpful features allow the Limor pit to be safe and easy to use while also being portable for use anywhere.
Not only is it easy to use, but it is also efficient in providing heat evenly. It gives off 40,000 BTU, so there is more than enough warmth given off by the fire. Thanks to its round build with a modern design of smooth surfaces and clean lines, it can provide even heating to anyone sitting around it.
Furthermore, starting the fire is as simple as pushing a button. Being fueled by propane, the resulting flame can also be controlled in terms of its height and intensity. Besides, there’s a rain cover that will protect the burner when it is not in use.
What's There To Like About It?
One of the qualities that stood out for me in the Limor fire pit was how easy it was to get the fire going. The control panel is tucked underneath the pit for easy access without taking away from the design.
Another nice touch by the brand was including lava rocks, which added to the modern design of the fire pit. Placing it in my living room instantly made it the center of attention without standing out as an eyesore.
What's There Not To Like About It?
A minor inconvenience that I came across while using this model was the need to have AA batteries to control the height of the flame.
Although the first pair is included in the kit, it is inevitably going to need a replacement. Propane tanks are already one additional expense to keep track of, and adding batteries to the mix does raise the long-term costs ever so slightly.
Pros and Cons of Limor Propane Fire Pit
Pros
Cons
- DBI & UMC Certification: This propane fire pit table is DBI & UMC Certified, which meets all electrical and mechanical requirements to ensure reliability and safety
- Clean Combustion: Liquid propane gas clean combustion is stable burning and environmental friendly, no ash or smoke to protect your health. Integrated push-button ignition starts and adjusts flame height easily (AA Battery required), The heat output is 40,000 BTU, which will provide ample warmth and creating a romantic bonfire atmosphere in the chilling winter
- Suitable Size: The fire bowl is 20 inch diameter and 40lbs weight (without the tank), which is light and easy to transport, So you could use this portable fireplace to add warmth and ambience to your desk, side table in living room, centerpiece for main dining table, or anywhere outdoors.Matching rain cover protects your beloved stove in bad weather
4. BAIDE HOME Fire Pit Table
The BAIDE HOME propane fire pit has a truly unique design that is an excellent addition to any patio or deck. With a concrete base design, this fire pit has a granite table top and a beautiful weathered natural slate gray finish.
Product Highlights
One of the standout features of this fire pit is the table around the fire pit that makes it incredibly functional even while it is off. Not many fire pits are able to boast that they have a functional tabletop. Even fewer can say they have a beautiful natural granite composition like this one does.
What also sets this fire pit apart from the other propane-fueled models is the built-in tank storage. The BAIDE HOME fire pit is able to hide away a 20-pound propane tank underneath the table and maintain a clean look. Having the tank stored in the model itself makes accessibility that much easier as well.
As this is a propane-fueled unit, the flames are started with an auto-ignition mechanism that also has an electronic microswitch. Plus, adjustments to the flame intensity and height can be made with the simple turn of a knob.
What's There To Like About It?
Being an avid investor for making my yard as beautiful as possible, I especially appreciated the weathered finish of the BAIDE HOME fire pit. Overall, the materials used in the composition make for a classy look without taking too much away from the natural elements.
Moreover, the built-in tank storage comes in handy to maintain the illusion of a fire pit that doesn’t need firewood or give off smoke. No more awkward pipes or separate storage are necessary for your propane tank; just a seamless fire pit experience.
What's There Not To Like About It?
If I had one gripe, it would be the elevated height of the pit itself. As the entire unit needs to accommodate space underneath for the tank, it can make heat distribution uneven. While the heat is warm enough above and around the table, anything below the table gets comparatively less heat.
Pros and Cons of BAIDE HOME Fire Pit Table
Pros
Cons
- Unique Bowl-Shaped Design & Gray Finish: The 28-Inch fire table width x 14" height fire table, with a 3.5" lip all around, is perfect for cozy evenings on your patio, poolside, balcony, or any outdoor space. This round propane fire pit features a distinctive bowl shape that adds contemporary flair to your outdoor area. This design enhances its visual appeal and ensures optimal heat distribution, making it a functional and stylish centerpiece for any patio or backyard.
- Convertible to a Multi-Functional Table: The matching metal lid allows you to easily convert the propane fire pit into a multifunctional table, perfect for placing drinks, coffee, or other items when the fire table is not in use.
- Powerful 50,000 BTU Output: This outdoor fire table offers a high heat output of 50,000 BTUs, providing warmth and ambiance for family gatherings or intimate conversations.
5. HOMPUS Outdoor 12-Inch Round Propane Fire Pit
Constructed out of high-quality materials, the HOMPUS fire pit is the perfect option for a safe and clean outdoor fire pit experience. Fueled by propane, it gives off 40,000 BTU to provide ample heating without the smoke and ash of a regular flame.
Product Highlights
HOMPUS has used magnesium oxide and concrete for an unfinished aesthetic to create a rugged outdoor look. It has a simple structure that is sleek and does not draw too much attention. The shape also allows it to easily accommodate a number of people around it with evenly distributed heating.
Additionally, HOMPUS includes a few extra features to extend the life of the pit and increase performance. For example, a rain cover keeps the stainless steel burner safe from moisture. And the included tempered glass wind guard shields the flames from extinguishing, even during a breeze.
With such a minimalistic aesthetic, storing the tank underneath the fire pit is an excellent design choice. The decorative base acts as the tank storage and saves space, and decreases the pipe length from the tank to the burner. This results in a more stable flame that burns smoothly and efficiently.
What's There To Like About It?
A few features that I especially appreciated in this unit were the simple design and efficient flame output. The rugged unfinished look made it blend in well with my outdoor setup, yet when turned on, it gave off steady warmth even from a distance.
Furthermore, the wind guard is extremely beneficial for cold and windy nights. Combined with the ring-mounted burner, the performance of the flame was second to none.
What's There Not To Like About It?
I am by no means the strongest of people, so I did find that moving this fire pit around was quite a challenge. It weighs 51 pounds without a tank, so I just left it there once it was set up. If you need a portable or lightweight pit, then you may need to reconsider.
Pros and Cons of HOMPUS Outdoor 12-Inch Round Propane Fire Pit
Pros
Cons
- [High-quality Materials] : Made of sturdy magnesium oxide, equipped with tempered-glass wind guard. Can be used outdoors for a long time to meet the needs of daily life.
- [Hidden Tank Storage] : Save space, easy to move, reduce the length of the pipe, and match the wind guard to make the flame more stable
- [40, 000BTU Stainless Steel Burner] : Help radiate warmth more evenly as they are heated by the flames.
Buyers Guide
Before you settle on a particular cylinder fire pit, there are a few factors that should be taken into account. Not every fire pit is the same, and with so many variations out there, you should be aware of the essential features to look out for.
So, to make the most informed decision, keep these points in mind to choose the best cylinder fire pit for your needs.
1. Fuel Source
When it comes to fuel sources, there are mainly two camps under which fire pits fall. The first is the more traditional firewood fuel, while the second is a more modern liquid propane tank. Each of these fuel sources has its own benefits and drawbacks in terms of performance and maintenance.
Depending on what you are looking for, the fuel source can determine how smooth of a user experience you have. This is one of the most crucial factors to consider, as it sets the tone for long-term use.
A. Firewood
Burning firewood is what many people think of when it comes to a fire pit. Although it involves much more physical work than the propane tank method, there is some nostalgic charm to it. Perhaps it is in the fragrant aroma of the smoke as the wood burns.
Regardless of its sentimental benefits, firewood does produce ash and smoke, which can act as irritants for sensitive people. Allergies, asthma, and burning of the eyes are just a few inconveniences that you may face upon being exposed to smoke.
Cleaning up ash and chopping the firewood down to size are two time-consuming jobs that a wood-fueled fire pit requires.
Additionally, the maintenance associated with firewood calls for intensive cleaning before and after a fire pit session. If you are unable to cope with the care and attention that this type of fire pit demands, you may be better using a propane-fueled pit.
B. Liquid Propane
With developments in technology, fire pits have evolved to become incredibly user-friendly and convenient. You can now start a fire in seconds with no effort at all, keeping the flame height being under your control. This makes adjusting the intensity of the flame much more accessible than a traditional wood-fueled fire pit.
As these types of fire pits are fueled by tanks, they do demand a constant supply of propane, which can substantially increase maintenance costs. Furthermore, the pipe from the tank to the pit can take up space. Although there are storage methods to hide away the tanks, it usually requires an additional purchase just to have a clean-looking pit area.
However, the performance and flame quality leaves little room for complaint. Burning off of the liquid propane makes the flame odorless and doesn’t give off smoke. What’s more, there is no ash to clean up afterward, making it low-maintenance.
2. Build Materials
Various manufacturers use a range of materials to make up their fire pits, with each material facilitating durability and functionality. As each fire pit employs different design methods and materials, these benefits can fluctuate in their strengths and weaknesses.
Depending on the type of material used, the most direct factor of the fire pit that is affected is its weight. If you choose to keep the pit stationary, then this is not a significant consideration to be taken into account. However, if you need to move it around or plan on taking it for trips, then the materials used can make or break the portability of the fire pit.
Besides weight, the materials used in the construction determine how well a fire pit is able to stand up to the elements. These pits are almost always exposed to different weather conditions, so having features like rust-proof materials can extend its lifespan as well as improve performance. Durability is especially important in propane-fueled tanks, which rely on a burner to keep the flame going.
3. Extra Features
Additional features included with a fire pit can enhance the user experience or help the pit give off a steadier flame. A common feature is a wind guard that, as the name suggests, protects the flame from wind. This feature is an essential piece if you live in a windy or exposed area where the fire can be quickly snuffed out.
A feature that can be found in many propane fire pits is lava rocks that hide away the burner and create a more natural atmosphere. These heat-resistant rocks are perfect for replicating a flickering flame as well since the propane flame would be consistent while burning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Compared to square-shaped fire pits, a cylindrical pit is able to accommodate more people around the fire. Heat distribution is even, thanks to the circular top- something that would not be possible in a fire pit with corners and edges.
Typically, a 20-pound propane tank contains 430,000 BTU, so to calculate how long one of these tanks would last is quite simple. Divide the propane tank capacity by the BTU rating of your fire pit, and you should get an approximate time period for one standard propane tank.
Usually, the average gas fire pit lasts for three to six hours on a single tank. However, this number can fluctuate depending on how efficiently the pit consumes fuel.
My Final Recommendation
Hopefully, you are now better equipped to select the best cylinder fire pit for your next gathering. Making the decision can be complicated with so many unique and helpful features, so take your time with it.
Personally, my top choice is the Solo Stove Ranger, as it is not only compact and portable but also has an efficient burn. However, when it comes to propane-fueled fire pits, the Outland Living 870 is perfect for giving off a smokeless and ash-free flame.
No matter what fire pit you choose, I am sure that your social gatherings will be much more enjoyable with a fire to sit around. After all, making memories is the end goal- something that a fire pit can definitely help you out with!