There’s nothing quite like gathering around a warm fire pit on a cool evening. It’s the perfect centerpiece for conversation, storytelling, and making memories in your own backyard. The good news is that you don’t need a large budget to enjoy this luxury. A cozy and inviting outdoor space is more accessible than you think.
Finding the right fire pit can be challenging with so many options available. You have to consider fuel type, portability, size, and overall style. To simplify your search, we’ve compiled a list of excellent fire pits that deliver both quality and value, all while keeping your patio upgrade affordable and stylish.
Our Top Picks for Affordable Patio Fire Pits
- Outland Living Portable Propane Fire Pit
- BALI OUTDOORS Fire Pit with Poker
- Fireside Outdoor Portable Fire Pit for Camping
- Landmann 28345 Big Sky Stars and Moons Firepit
- Gas One 22 in Outdoor Wood Burning Fire Pit
- TIKI Patio Fire Pit Bundle
- Ciays 28Inch Propane Fire Pit Table
- Fire Pit Spark Screen
- Flame King Smokeless Propane Fire Pit
- Bond Manufacturing Aurora 22-Inch Steel Patio Fire Pit
Outland Living Portable Propane Fire Pit
This portable propane fire bowl offers a clean and convenient campfire experience. It eliminates the mess of ash and firewood while producing a smokeless flame, making it ideal for patios, decks, and even areas with campfire restrictions. You get the warmth and ambiance of a real fire without the hassle.
With a powerful 58,000 BTU output, it provides substantial heat for its compact size. The unit is lightweight, requires no tools for setup, and is easy to transport for camping or tailgating. Its CSA approval adds a layer of safety, allowing you to enjoy a spark-free fire in various outdoor settings.
BALI OUTDOORS Fire Pit with Poker
This 32-inch wood-burning fire pit is built for social gatherings. Its large bowl design is effective at containing sparks, creating a safer environment for family and friends to gather around. The included grill grate also makes it versatile enough for casual barbecuing.
Constructed from high-quality metal, this fire pit is made to last through many seasons. It is sturdy enough to withstand various weather conditions. Assembly is straightforward, taking less than 20 minutes, so you can start using your new fire pit almost immediately after it arrives.
Fireside Outdoor Portable Fire Pit
For those who value portability, this pop-up fire pit is a fantastic option. Weighing only 8 pounds and assembling in under a minute, it’s perfect for camping trips, beach outings, or storing in a small space. It comes with a weather-resistant carrying bag for easy transport.
The design uses mesh technology to promote better airflow, resulting in a hotter fire with significantly less smoke. Despite its lightweight build, it can support up to 125 pounds of wood, charcoal, or wax logs. It’s a durable, collapsible solution for a clean fire anywhere you go.
Landmann Big Sky Stars and Moons Firepit
Add a touch of whimsical charm to your backyard with this uniquely designed fire pit. The stars and moons cutouts create a beautiful light pattern when the fire is lit, enhancing the evening atmosphere. Its sturdy steel construction ensures it will be a patio feature for years.
This fire pit is both functional and decorative. It includes a cooking grate for grilling and a spark screen with a poker for safety and convenience. The classic black finish helps it blend seamlessly with any outdoor decor style.
Gas One Wood Burning Fire Pit
This compact 22-inch fire pit is ideal for creating a cozy gathering spot in a smaller backyard or on a deck. It’s designed to foster those classic campfire moments with family and friends, perfect for roasting marshmallows and enjoying long conversations.
Built with rust-resistant alloy steel and a high-temperature paint finish, this unit is made for durability. Its small but spacious design is practical for various settings, from a garden party to a camping trip, without taking up too much space.
TIKI Patio Fire Pit Bundle
This smokeless wood-burning fire pit uses a patented airflow system to minimize smoke and ash, creating a more comfortable environment for everyone around it. It’s an excellent choice for those who love the tradition of a wood fire but prefer a cleaner burn.
The bundle includes a stand, a removable ash pan for easy cleaning, and a weather-resistant cover. Constructed from 16-gauge stainless steel with a black powder coat, it is built for premium durability and radiates warmth in a 4-foot radius.
Ciays Propane Fire Pit Table
This fire pit table offers a dual-purpose design that maximizes your patio space. When you need heat, the 50,000 BTU output warms a wide area. In warmer weather, the removable lid converts it into a practical table for dining or holding drinks.
As a propane-powered unit, it provides a smoke-free and spark-free flame, making it suitable for covered patios and dry climates. The included lava rocks enhance the visual appeal of the flame, and the propane tank can be stored discreetly inside the table.
Fire Pit Spark Screen
This is an essential accessory for any existing wood-burning fire pit. The 22-inch round spark screen is designed with a tight mesh to effectively contain flying embers, greatly improving safety on your patio or deck.
Built with reinforced stainless steel and 12 support bars, it is sturdy and heat-resistant. The collapsible design and included foldable poker make it easy to store when not in use. Be sure to measure your fire pit’s inner diameter to ensure a proper fit.
Flame King Smokeless Propane Fire Pit
This 24-inch fire bowl is a complete package for instant, clean-burning fun. It comes with a self-igniter, a cover, carry straps, and lava rocks, so you have everything you need to get started aside from the propane tank.
Producing 58,000 BTUs of smokeless heat, it is perfect for RV trips, camping, or your backyard. The 10-foot hose provides flexibility for connecting to a standard propane tank, which can be hidden from view within the bowl’s base.
Bond Manufacturing Aurora Fire Pit
The Bond Manufacturing Aurora brings a classic and elegant design to your outdoor living area. Its 22-inch steel construction offers a traditional fire pit experience, perfect for wood-burning evenings.
This fire pit serves as a reliable and stylish focal point for any backyard or patio setting. It’s built to host memorable gatherings, providing warmth and a classic campfire ambiance that encourages relaxation and conversation.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Fire Pits under $200 for Your Patio
Finding a great fire pit without spending a fortune is totally doable. I have bought a few of these myself, and I have learned that the key is to focus on what really matters for your specific space and how you plan to use it. Before you click “add to cart,” here are the main things I think you should consider to get the most for your money.
First, decide on your fuel type. This is the biggest fork in the road. Wood-burning fire pits give you that classic crackling sound, mesmerizing flames, and that wonderful campfire smell. They are often less expensive upfront. The trade-off is that they require more cleanup (ash) and you need a steady supply of firewood. Propane fire pits, on the other hand, are all about convenience. You get instant fire with the turn of a knob, no smoke smell on your clothes, and they are super easy to extinguish. You will, however, need to budget for propane tank refills and store the tank somewhere.
Next, think about the material and build quality. For under $200, you will commonly find fire pits made from steel, which is affordable and durable, but it can rust over time if not cared for. Look for models with a powder-coated finish, as this adds a layer of protection against the elements. Cast iron is another excellent option because it retains heat incredibly well, but it is very heavy and can be prone to rust if the finish is scratched. I always check the weight and dimensions in the product description to make sure it is a good size for my patio and that I can move it if needed.
Safety and placement are non-negotiable. No matter which fire pit you choose, you must use it on a non-flammable surface like stone, brick, or concrete. Keep it a safe distance from your house, fences, and any low-hanging tree branches. Many affordable models come with a spark screen, which is a crucial accessory for containing embers, especially with wood fires. If it does not come with one, I highly recommend buying one separately.
Finally, consider the extra features that improve the experience. Does it have a cooking grate? This turns your fire pit into a makeshift grill for hot dogs or marshmallows. Is there a cover included? A cover will significantly extend the life of your fire pit by protecting it from rain and snow. Some designs even offer hidden storage for the propane tank. By weighing these factors—fuel type, material, safety, and features—you can confidently find one of the best fire pits under $200 for your patio that you will enjoy for many seasons to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the safest type of fire pit to use on a wooden deck?
This is a very common concern. The absolute safest option for a wooden deck is a propane or natural gas fire pit, specifically a tabletop model or one that is raised up on legs. Even then, you must use a fire pit pad underneath it. This is a heat-resistant barrier designed to protect your deck from stray embers and intense radiant heat. Wood-burning fire pits are generally a no-go for wooden decks due to the high risk of flying sparks and the immense heat they generate at the base. Always check your local fire codes and your deck manufacturer’s recommendations first.
Can I leave my fire pit outside all year round?
You can, but I do not recommend it if you want it to last. While most fire pits are designed to be weather-resistant, constant exposure to rain, snow, and sun will shorten their lifespan. Moisture is the enemy of metal, leading to rust and corrosion. The best practice is to invest in a fitted weather cover. If you have a lighter model, storing it in a shed or garage during the off-season, or during extended periods of bad weather, is the best way to keep it looking and working like new for years.
Are there any fire pits under $200 that are also a table?
Yes, there are several great options! These are often called “fire tables” and they are a fantastic space-saving solution for smaller patios. In this price range, you will typically find propane models where the burner is in the center of a table, often surrounded by lava rock or fire glass. When not in use, many come with a cover that turns the entire surface into a functional table. This dual-purpose design makes them one of the most versatile choices for the best fire pits under $200 for your patio, combining ambiance with practical furniture.
How much heat can I actually expect from a budget-friendly fire pit?
The heat output varies. For wood-burning pits, the heat can be very significant and is great for warming a larger circle of people. For propane models, look at the BTU (British Thermal Unit) rating. A higher BTU generally means more heat. Most propane fire pits in this budget category range from 40,000 to 60,000 BTUs, which provides a comfortable warmth for a small to medium-sized gathering sitting around it. It is not going to heat your entire backyard, but it creates a very cozy focal point.
What is the easiest fire pit to clean and maintain?
Hands down, propane fire pits are the easiest. There is no ash, soot, or half-burnt logs to deal with. Basic maintenance involves occasionally wiping down the exterior and ensuring the burner ports are clear of debris. For wood-burning pits, you have to safely dispose of cool ashes after each use. To prevent rust, you should also regularly check for any chips in the paint or coating and touch them up as needed. A cover is essential for both types to minimize maintenance.