My Journey Finding the Perfect Smokeless Fire Pit
I love sitting by a fire pit on cool evenings. But I got tired of dealing with smoke in my eyes. I also hated cleaning up ash the next morning.
That’s when I discovered propane smokeless fire pits. These changed everything for me.
I spent three months testing three top-rated models. I used them for camping trips. I had friends over for backyard gatherings. I even took one to the beach.
This guide shares what I learned. I’ll tell you which one worked best for me. I’ll also share tips I wish someone told me before buying.
Our Expertise
I’ve been an outdoor enthusiast for over eight years. I camp at least twice a month during warm seasons. I’ve used more than 15 different fire pits over the years.
I tested each fire pit in this guide for at least 30 days. I used them in different weather conditions. I tracked fuel usage. I measured heat output. I even timed how long setup took.
I’m not paid by any brand to say nice things. I bought these with my own money. My goal is to help you make a smart choice.
Our Top Picks at a Glance
After extensive testing, here are my top recommendations:
Best Overall: Outland Living 21-inch Fire Pit
- Perfect balance of size, heat, and portability
- Best flame quality I’ve seen
- Most durable construction
Best Budget: GasBRUH 19-inch Fire Pit
- Amazing value for money
- Lightest option for camping
- Good heat output for the price
Best Features: Ciays 19-inch Fire Pit
- Comes with cooking grate
- Best safety features
- Foldable legs save space
What Makes Propane Fire Pits Better Than Wood
Let me explain why I switched to propane. I’ll share the real benefits I noticed.
No Smoke in Your Eyes
This was huge for me. With wood fires, I’d constantly move chairs. The smoke always followed me. With propane, there’s zero smoke. My clothes don’t smell like campfire anymore.
Instant On and Off
I can start a fire in 30 seconds. No gathering kindling. No waiting for logs to catch. Just turn the knob and enjoy.
When it’s time for bed, I turn it off. No worrying about embers. No waiting for the fire to die.
Clean Burning
I used to spend 20 minutes cleaning ash. Now I spend maybe 2 minutes wiping down the bowl. That’s it.
Safe During Fire Bans
Many campgrounds ban wood fires in summer. But they allow propane fire pits. I can still enjoy fires when others can’t.
Better Fuel Control
I can adjust the flame height instantly. Want a roaring fire? Turn it up. Just need gentle warmth? Turn it down.
A 20-pound propane tank lasts me about 10-12 hours. That’s roughly $20 worth of fuel. Wood costs me way more than that.
1. Outland Living 21-Inch Portable Propane Fire Pit – My Top Choice
This is the fire pit I use most often. It’s become my go-to for almost everything.
Product Features
Size and Weight
- Dimensions: 21 inches diameter, 9.25 inches tall
- Weight: 26 pounds
- Heat output: 58,000 BTU per hour
What’s in the Box
- Main fire bowl unit
- Protective cover
- Carry kit
- 10-foot propane hose (already attached)
- Adjustable regulator with chrome knob
- 4.4 pounds of natural lava rocks
Construction Quality
- High-quality alloy steel body
- Stainless steel burner
- Protective enamel finish
- All stainless steel fasteners
What I Like About This Fire Pit
The flame quality impressed me right away. The Helios burner technology creates a natural-looking flame. It doesn’t look fake or weak like some propane fires.
The 21-inch size gives off serious heat. I can feel warmth from 8 feet away. My friends and I can sit in a circle and stay warm.
The build quality feels premium. The steel is thick. The finish looks professional. Nothing feels cheap or flimsy.
I also love that the hose comes pre-attached. One less thing to worry about during setup.
Why It’s Better Than Competitors
I tested this against two other models. Here’s what set it apart:
Better Flame Pattern
The flame spreads evenly across the whole bowl. Other models had weak spots. Some had flames that only rose from one side.
More Stable Construction
At 26 pounds, it doesn’t tip easily. Lighter models wobbled when I bumped them. This one stays put.
Higher Quality Materials
The stainless steel burner looks built to last. Cheaper models use regular steel that will rust over time.
Larger Heat Radius
The lower profile design helps heat spread out more. I could feel warmth from farther away compared to taller models.
How It Performed in Real Use
I used this fire pit for 45 nights over three months. Here’s what happened:
Camping Trip Test
I took it to a state park campground. Setup took 3 minutes. I connected my propane tank, turned the knob, and had fire.
The wind was blowing that night. The flame stayed strong. It didn’t blow out once.
One 20-pound propane tank lasted three nights. We ran the fire for about 3-4 hours each night.
Backyard Party Test
I hosted 8 friends for an evening gathering. Everyone could feel the heat. The 21-inch size was perfect for our group.
We adjusted the flame throughout the night. Low flame for talking. Higher flame when it got colder. The adjustment knob worked smoothly.
Beach Test
I brought it to a beach bonfire (where propane was allowed). The sand underneath got warm but not dangerously hot.
The cover protected it during transport. No scratches or dents after the trip.
Cold Weather Test
I used it on a 35-degree night. The fire pit performed great. No issues with the regulator or flame.
It kept us warm enough to stay outside for two hours.
How I Clean and Maintain It
Cleaning this fire pit is super easy. Here’s my routine:
After Each Use
- Let it cool completely (I wait 30 minutes)
- Wipe the bowl with a damp cloth
- Remove any debris from lava rocks
- Put the cover back on
Monthly Deep Clean
- Remove all lava rocks
- Clean the burner with a soft brush
- Wash rocks with water if they look dirty
- Check hose for cracks or damage
- Wipe down the exterior with metal cleaner
The enamel finish makes cleaning easy. Dirt doesn’t stick to it. I’ve never had to scrub hard.
Testing Results Summary
Pros I Found:
- Best flame quality of all three models
- Stays stable in wind
- Easy temperature control
- Durable construction
- Good warranty support
- Looks professional
Cons I Noticed:
- Heavier than other options (harder to carry)
- Higher price point
- Takes up more storage space
- Lava rocks can shift during transport
My Verdict:
This is worth the extra money. If you want the best quality and don’t mind spending more, buy this one. It’s the fire pit I reach for most often.
2. Ciays Large Propane Fire Pit 19-Inch – Best for Cooking
This fire pit surprised me. It offers features the others don’t have.
Product Features
Size and Design
- Dimensions: 20 inches diameter, 10 inches tall
- Weight: 23 pounds
- Heat output: 58,000 BTU per hour
- Foldable legs for easy storage
Complete Package Includes
- Fire pit with folding legs
- Cast iron cooking grate
- Protective lid
- 10-foot gas hose (pre-assembled)
- Lava rocks
- Hose hooks
- Carrying strap
- Propane tank holder
Safety Features
- CSA certified for campfire bans
- Flameout protection system
- Piezo electric ignition (no batteries needed)
- Rust-proof grate
What I Like About This Fire Pit
The cooking grate changes everything. I can grill burgers and hot dogs right over the flame. No need for a separate grill.
The foldable legs are brilliant. I can fold it down to 8 inches tall. It fits in my car trunk easily.
The flameout protection gives me peace of mind. If wind blows out the flame, gas stops flowing. I don’t have to worry about gas leaks.
The piezo ignition works every time. Just push and turn. No matches or lighters needed.
Why It’s Better for Certain Users
This fire pit excels in specific situations:
For Car Campers
The folding design saves so much space. I can pack it with my other camping gear. The carrying strap makes it easy to haul from the parking lot.
For Tailgaters
The cooking grate means I can cook food and stay warm with one device. Less stuff to bring to the game.
For People With Limited Storage
When folded, this takes up minimal space in my garage. I can slide it on a shelf.
For Safety-Conscious Users
The flameout protection is a real safety feature. Other models don’t have this.
How It Performed in My Tests
I used this for 30 days in various scenarios.
Cooking Test
I grilled hot dogs, burgers, and vegetables. The cast iron grate got hot enough to sear meat. Food cooked evenly.
I could adjust flame height while cooking. Lower heat for hot dogs. Higher heat for burgers.
The grate is easy to clean. I let it cool, then brushed it off.
Transport Test
I folded and unfolded it 20 times. The hinges still work smoothly. Nothing feels loose.
Compact size: 19 inches by 8 inches when folded. That’s small enough for most car trunks.
Ignition Test
I tested the piezo ignition 50 times. It worked every single time. No misfires. No frustration.
Wind Test
I used it on a windy day (15 mph gusts). The flame blew out twice. But the safety shut-off kicked in immediately. I smelled no gas.
After the flame went out, I just re-ignited it. Simple process.
How I Clean This Model
Cleaning is straightforward, with one extra step for the grate.
Regular Cleaning
- Wait for everything to cool
- Remove and brush the cooking grate
- Wipe the fire bowl
- Shake out any debris
- Fold legs and store with cover
Grate Maintenance
The cast iron grate needs care to prevent rust:
- Clean after each use
- Apply a thin coat of cooking oil
- Store in a dry place
- Check for rust monthly
I haven’t seen any rust yet. The “rust-proof” claim seems accurate.
Testing Results Summary
Pros I Found:
- Cooking grate adds functionality
- Folds for easy storage
- Best safety features
- Reliable ignition system
- Good value for the features
- Propane tank holder is handy
Cons I Noticed:
- Slightly smaller flame than Outland
- Folding parts could wear over time
- Grate requires maintenance
- Wind can blow out flame more easily
My Verdict:
Buy this if you want to cook over your fire. The folding design is perfect for people with limited space. The safety features give extra peace of mind.
3. GasBRUH 19-Inch Portable Fire Pit – Best Budget Option
This fire pit proved you don’t need to spend a lot for good quality.
Product Features
Specifications
- Dimensions: 19 inches diameter, 11 inches tall
- Weight: 8.5 kilograms (about 18.7 pounds)
- Heat output: 60,000 BTU per hour
- Material: High-quality metal construction
What You Get
- Fire pit bowl
- Lid with carry handle
- 10-foot braided stainless hose
- Adjustable regulator with chrome knob
- 4.8 pounds of natural lava rocks
- CSA approval certification
Key Features
- Rainproof and rust-resistant lid
- Portable design with handle
- Pre-attached hose
- Lightweight construction
What I Like About This Fire Pit
The price shocked me. It costs less than half the Outland model. Yet it performs well.
At 18.7 pounds, it’s the lightest option I tested. I can carry it with one hand easily.
The 60,000 BTU output is actually higher than the others. More heat for less money.
The lid has a built-in handle. I can grab and go without needing a separate carrying case.
Why It’s Perfect for Budget Shoppers
Not everyone wants to spend $200 on a fire pit. This proves you don’t have to.
For First-Time Buyers
If you’re not sure about propane fire pits, start here. You can test the concept without major investment.
For Occasional Users
I have friends who camp once or twice a year. They don’t need premium features. This works great for them.
For Multiple Fire Pits
Some people want one for camping and one for home. Buying two of these costs less than one premium model.
How It Performed During Testing
I used this for 30 days, comparing it directly to pricier models.
Heat Output Test
Despite being the cheapest, it put out the most heat on paper (60,000 BTU). In practice, it felt slightly warmer than the others.
I measured temperature with an infrared thermometer. At 3 feet away, it registered 85 degrees when ambient temp was 60 degrees.
Portability Test
This is where it shines. At 18.7 pounds, I barely noticed the weight. I carried it a quarter mile to a campsite with no struggle.
The built-in handle on the lid makes transport easy. I don’t need a separate carry bag.
Durability Test
Here’s where the lower price shows. The metal is thinner than the Outland. It dented slightly when I dropped it (my fault).
The finish isn’t as nice. It’s more matte than polished.
Weather Resistance Test
I left it outside (covered) during a rainstorm. No rust appeared. The lid kept water out.
I used it in 40-degree weather. No performance issues.
How I Clean and Care for It
Cleaning is similar to the others, with a few notes.
Basic Cleaning
- Cool down completely
- Wipe bowl with cloth
- Remove debris from rocks
- Cover with lid
Special Care Notes
The thinner metal shows fingerprints more. I wipe it down with metal polish monthly to keep it looking good.
The finish scratches easier than premium models. I’m more careful when moving it around.
Testing Results Summary
Pros I Found:
- Best price by far
- Lightest weight for backpacking
- Highest BTU output
- Built-in carrying handle
- Good heat for the money
- Easy to store
Cons I Noticed:
- Thinner metal construction
- Finish isn’t as nice
- Dents more easily
- Less stable in strong wind
- Simpler design overall
My Verdict:
This is perfect for budget-conscious buyers. If you want to save money and don’t mind a simpler design, get this one. It’s also ideal for serious backpackers who count every ounce.
Side-by-Side Comparison: How They Stack Up
Let me compare all three directly. This helped me choose which to use for different situations.
Price and Value
GasBRUH: Around $96 (Best value) Ciays: Around $108 (Good value with extra features) Outland: Around $200 (Premium price for premium quality)
Weight and Portability
GasBRUH: 18.7 lbs (Easiest to carry) Ciays: 23 lbs (Middle ground) Outland: 26 lbs (Heaviest but most stable)
Heat Output
GasBRUH: 60,000 BTU (Highest on paper) Outland: 58,000 BTU (Best heat distribution) Ciays: 58,000 BTU (Good heat with cooking option)
Build Quality
Outland: Premium (Best materials and finish) Ciays: Good (Solid with extra features) GasBRUH: Basic (Works well but simpler)
Special Features
Ciays: Cooking grate, foldable legs, safety shutoff Outland: Helios burner, carry kit, premium finish GasBRUH: Lightweight, built-in handle, high BTU
What to Consider Before Buying
Let me share factors I wish I knew before testing these.
How You’ll Use It
For Backpacking: Get the GasBRUH. Weight matters when you’re hiking miles.
For Car Camping: The Outland or Ciays work great. You’re not carrying them far.
For Home Patio: Any will work. I’d pick based on features you want.
For Tailgating: The Ciays with cooking grate is perfect.
Your Budget
Be honest about what you can spend. All three work well. The expensive one isn’t automatically better for everyone.
I spent $200 on the Outland. But my friend loves his $96 GasBRUH. He saved money and still enjoys fires.
Storage Space
Where will you keep it?
Limited Space: Get the Ciays. It folds down small.
Garage or Shed: Any model works fine.
Apartment Balcony: Check your lease first. Then consider the smallest model.
How Often You’ll Use It
Daily Use: Invest in the Outland. Better quality lasts longer.
Weekly Use: The Ciays offers good middle ground.
Monthly Use: The GasBRUH saves money for occasional use.
Fuel Costs
All three use propane at similar rates. A 20-pound tank costs about $20. It lasts 10-12 hours of burn time.
That’s roughly $1.50 to $2 per hour of fire. Cheaper than buying firewood in most places.
Safety Tips I Learned the Hard Way
I made some mistakes during testing. Learn from me.
Always Use on Stable Ground
I once set up on uneven grass. The fire pit wobbled. Now I find flat ground first.
Keep Propane Tank Away from Heat
I placed my tank too close once. The regulator got warm. Now I use the full 10-foot hose length.
Check for Leaks
Before each use, I spray soapy water on connections. Bubbles mean leaks. I’ve caught two leaks this way.
Never Leave Unattended
Even though these are safer than wood fires, don’t leave them running alone. I always have someone watching.
Cool Down Time
Wait at least 30 minutes before touching after use. The metal stays hot longer than you think.
Wind Considerations
On very windy days (20+ mph), I don’t use my fire pit. Or I create a windbreak with my camping chairs.
Keep Away from Flammables
I maintain 3 feet of clearance from tents, chairs, and plants. This has prevented close calls.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a propane tank last?
In my testing, a 20-pound tank lasts 10-12 hours on medium flame. Higher flames use fuel faster. Lower flames stretch it longer.
I run my fire pit for 3-4 hours per evening. One tank gives me about 3 nights of use.
Can I use these during fire bans?
All three models are CSA certified. Most campfire bans allow them. But always check local rules first. I call the ranger station before camping.
Do they work in cold weather?
Yes. I used them in 35-degree weather with no issues. The propane flowed fine. The flame stayed strong.
How much does propane cost?
I pay about $20 for a 20-pound tank refill. Some places charge $25. Exchange programs might cost more.
Are they safe on wooden decks?
I use a fire pit mat under mine on my deck. This protects the wood from heat. Never place directly on wood without protection.
Can I cook food over them?
The Ciays comes with a cooking grate. The others don’t. You can buy aftermarket grates if needed. I’ve grilled successfully on the Ciays.
How do I store them in winter?
I clean mine thoroughly. Then I store indoors if possible. If storing outside, keep covered and dry. Disconnect propane tank.
My Final Recommendation
After three months of testing, here’s what I’d buy:
If Money Is No Issue: Get the Outland Living. It’s the best quality. The flame looks amazing. It will last for years.
If You Want Best Value: Buy the Ciays. You get cooking ability and safety features. The folding design is practical. It’s my second favorite.
If Budget Is Tight: Go with GasBRUH. It’s half the price but still works great. Perfect for casual use.
What I Use Now
I kept all three. Seriously.
I use the Outland for backyard parties. It looks the best and impresses guests.
I take the Ciays camping. The cooking grate and folding legs make it perfect for that.
I lend the GasBRUH to friends who want to try propane fires. It’s affordable enough that I don’t worry about it.
Would I Buy These Again?
Yes to all three. Each serves a purpose. But if I could only have one, I’d pick the Outland. Quality matters for something I use often.
Tips for Getting the Most from Your Fire Pit
Let me share tricks I learned during testing.
Break-In Period
Run your new fire pit for 30 minutes before first real use. This burns off manufacturing oils. Mine smoked a bit during first use. After that, no issues.
Lava Rock Arrangement
Spread rocks evenly across burner. Leave small gaps for airflow. Don’t pile them up. This creates the best flame pattern.
Flame Adjustment
Start on low. Wait 2 minutes. Then adjust up if needed. This prevents gas buildup and ensures smooth ignition.
Propane Tank Position
Keep tank upright and stable. Use the 10-foot hose to position it away from heat. I keep mine behind my chair.
Wind Management
Face the fire pit so wind hits the side, not directly into flames. Position chairs to create a natural windbreak.
Cleaning Schedule
Wipe down after every 3-4 uses. Deep clean monthly. This keeps them looking new and working smoothly.
Conclusion: Choose Based on Your Needs
All three fire pits work well. Your choice depends on your situation.
The Outland Living gives you premium quality and the best flames. Worth it if you use it often.
The Ciays offers the most features for the price. The cooking grate and folding design add real value.
The GasBRUH saves you money while still delivering good performance. Perfect for budget shoppers or occasional users.
I’m happy with all three. They’ve changed how I enjoy outdoor time. No more smoke. No more ash cleanup. Just instant warmth and ambiance.
Pick the one that fits your needs and budget. You won’t regret switching to propane.
Stay warm out there!