Top Smokeless Fire Pits We’ve Tested and Recommend

Top Pick, Gas-Powered

The Outland Living fire pit earned its place as our top smokeless fire pit due to its completely smoke-free performance. Its affordable price makes it an excellent value. The unit arrived mostly pre-assembled with straightforward instructions. Setting it up involved adding lava rocks and connecting it to a propane tank, a process that took just five minutes.

We were amazed by how quickly we could connect the propane tank and start the fire. Within two minutes, we were comfortably seated, enjoying the warmth. The flame intensity is adjustable via a knob, which proved particularly useful for roasting marshmallows. The fire pit emitted consistent heat without any smoke, and the warmth was noticeable even from feet away.

As a propane-powered model, it eliminates the need for firewood or dealing with ash cleanup. While there was minimal residue from the lava rocks, it was negligible. The fire pit is lightweight and easy to move, though it does become slightly heavier once the rocks are added. Nonetheless, it remains portable and convenient to transport.

The fire pit includes a durable protective cover that is UV- and weather-resistant, allowing it to remain outdoors year-round. This cover also keeps the lava rocks secure during transport. While a longer hose would have been ideal for hiding the propane tank, the fire pit's numerous advantages easily outweigh this minor drawback. Additionally, a higher flame setting would have been a welcome feature. 

After six months of frequent use, the fire pit continues to perform like new. It demands almost no upkeep; simply remove the cover, and it’s ready to use. Aside from slight discoloration of the rocks over time, it has endured various weather conditions, including sun, rain, sleet, snow, and ice. It’s a fantastic addition to any outdoor space, particularly during the colder months.

Fuel Source: Propane | Material: Stainless steel, alloy steel | Dimensions: 24 by 13 inches | Weight: 34 pounds

Top Pick, Wood-Burning

The Solo Stove Yukon 2.0, despite being a wood-burning fire pit, operates completely smoke-free. Smoke is directed upward, making it nearly invisible. During our use, we detected no smoke odor, eliminating the need to wash our clothes immediately after. 

Impressed by its performance, we asked Bumachar to explain the technology behind it. “The fire pit features a patented double-wall design with 360° airflow that maximizes oxygen flow, enabling smokeless operation and durability in all weather conditions,” she explained. Our experience aligns with this; after months of use, the fire pit remains in pristine condition with no signs of rust or wear. 

We also observed that the heat was evenly distributed around the pit, never becoming too intense. While it can hold up to six logs at once, we noticed it consumes wood faster than traditional fire pits.

Weighing just under 42 pounds, the unit is somewhat heavy, so moving it might require two people. However, it’s still portable enough to bring along for camping trips or outdoor gatherings with friends. You can also use it for cooking by adding a cast iron griddle top, though this must be purchased separately.

While the price is on the higher side, this fire pit’s premium quality and durability justify the investment. Constructed from 304 stainless steel, known for its resistance to corrosion, it’s built to last and comes with a lifetime warranty. Its sleek, minimalist design is available in eight vibrant colors, including mulberry red and deep olive, to brighten up your outdoor space.

This fire pit is designed to withstand outdoor conditions without rusting or deteriorating. However, for long-term protection, it’s recommended to keep it covered. Since a cover isn’t included, you’ll need to buy one separately if you plan to leave it outside when not in use. 

Fuel Source: Wood | Material: Stainless steel | Dimensions: 27 by 17 inches | Weight: 41.6 pounds

Top Budget Pick

We were amazed by the Inno Stage Smokeless Fire Pit’s near-total lack of smoke during our initial use. There was no visible smoke, no lingering odor, and no smoky smell on our clothes even after hours of sitting around it. 

Setting up the fire pit took just five minutes, with an additional two minutes to add the pellets. The bowl has a clear fill line, making the process simple. Within 10 minutes, the fire was burning steadily. 

After about 30 minutes, with the entire bowl glowing and embers burning brightly, we could feel the warmth from about 2 to 3 feet away—impressive for its compact size. While it’s ideal for small groups, larger sizes are available, with the biggest model measuring 24 inches in diameter compared to this 15-inch version. 

The only time we noticed a faint hint of smoke was as the embers were dying down. The fire pit’s handles made it easy to dispose of the debris, which was warm but not hot enough to burn. Even with pellets inside, it remained lightweight and easy to move. 

Its compact size makes it perfect for tossing into the trunk for camping trips or fitting into small gardens or patios. It’s also easy to store almost anywhere. However, if you live in a windy area, it’s best not to leave it outside, as it might blow into a neighbor’s yard.

After six months of use, its performance and heat output remain consistent. This model is not only affordable and effective but also includes a high-quality carrying case with sturdy handles and a durable zipper. The thick, weatherproof material ensures long-lasting use.

Fuel Source: Wood | Material: Metal | Dimensions: 15 by 12.5 inches | Weight: 16 pounds

Top Tabletop Pick

The compact Solo Stove Mesa fire pit surprised us with a larger flame than anticipated and provided noticeable warmth when seated nearby. It’s ideal for adding a cozy touch and ambiance on cool days, though it’s not designed to heat large groups in freezing conditions. 

Its sleek, minimalist design is complemented by nine color options, allowing it to blend seamlessly with your outdoor decor. Setup is effortless—just assemble the two pieces, and it’s ready to use.

We achieved a clean, smokeless burn, though the wood pellets burn faster than traditional kindling, lasting about 10 minutes once ignited. To extend the burn time, you can gradually add more pellets while in use. 

The exterior becomes extremely hot during full operation, so moving it requires caution—only lift it by the stand. It cools down relatively quickly, becoming safe to touch about 10 minutes after the fire has died out.

When we first used regular kindling, there was some smoke, though not excessive. A few dark plumes were visible. Switching to wood pellets with a separately purchased pellet adaptor eliminated the smoke entirely.

This fire pit is sturdy and well-made, performing flawlessly over six months of testing. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only a quick wipe with a paper towel once it cools. It’s perfect for compact outdoor areas like balconies or rooftops.

Fuel Source: Pellets, hardwood, Solo Stove mini oak firewood | Material: Stainless steel, ceramic | Dimensions: 5.1 by 6.8 inches | Weight: 1.4 pounds

Top Decorative Pick

The Hampton Bay Crossridge serves as both a smokeless fire pit and a practical piece of outdoor furniture. It’s easy to light and requires minimal maintenance—just refill the propane and wipe it down occasionally. After six months, it remains rust-free and fully functional. Its compact design makes it suitable for medium to small outdoor spaces.

This model required more assembly compared to others in our review. It arrived in a flat box with multiple pieces to screw together. The instructions were clear, with helpful diagrams, and all parts were labeled correctly. Initially, the pieces seemed fragile, especially considering the low price, but once assembled, it was surprisingly sturdy.

Starting a fire with this unit is quick and hassle-free, making weeknight fires effortless. The propane tank attaches like a gas grill, and ignition is as simple as turning a knob and pressing a button. It produces a steady, controlled flame with even heat distribution and, as advertised, no smoke or debris. The warmth was noticeable up to 3 feet away. 

The fire pit’s wide ledge is perfect for placing food and drinks, and it includes a cover that transforms it into a standard outdoor table. This makes it usable even when the weather isn’t ideal for fires. 

While the table is durable, the material appears prone to dents if heavy objects are dropped on it. Another issue was the safety sticker on the fire pit’s surface, which was difficult to remove and left significant residue. 

Fuel Source: Propane | Material: Steel, natural slate | Dimensions: 30 by 30 by 25 inches | Weight: 90 pounds

Top Durability Pick

The Titan Great Outdoors Corten Smokeless Fire Pit has an industrial look that sets it apart from our other selections, but its performance won us over. Its rugged, weathered appearance may not appeal to everyone, but it has a unique charm. The unit arrived fully assembled, though its 68-pound weight required two people to move it.

After positioning it, we added twigs, kindling, and a small log to the base of the pit. It generated substantial heat with minimal smoke—no lingering odor on our clothes. Initial lighting produced more smoke, as expected, but the wood ignited quickly, and we felt warmth from 3 feet away. 

For its price, we anticipated additional features, such as a removable ashtray. However, after six months of use, we see why it’s priced higher than similar products. Its sturdy construction and durability justify the cost. Over time, it developed a more rustic appearance, which suits its aesthetic. The absence of an ashtray is a drawback, as tipping this heavy unit to remove debris is cumbersome.

Fuel Source: Wood | Material: Alloy steel | Dimensions: 21 by 13.25 inches | Weight: 68 pounds

Top Pick for Easy Cleaning

The Cuisinart COH-800 Cleanburn is perfect for those seeking a hassle-free, low-maintenance smokeless fire pit. Its assembly and operation are straightforward and user-friendly. 

The fire pit comes in three parts—the base, bowl, and stand—which take just five to 10 minutes to assemble, including unboxing. Once set up, it’s ready for logs, twigs, and ignition.

The heat was noticeable from about 3 feet away, and as long as the logs were evenly spaced and there was no strong wind, the warmth was consistent around the entire pit. We were particularly impressed by its vibrant, clean flame, which burned for an extended period. (Shaunfield explains that the Cleanburn system’s innovative airflow ensures a long-lasting burn.)

As our easiest-to-clean pick, maintaining this fire pit takes less than a minute. Simply lift the bowl from the stand to pour out the ash, then dust off any remaining residue. (A damp cloth can also be used for cleaning.) While it doesn’t include a cover, one would help reduce dust and further simplify maintenance. 

Overall, this fire pit is highly efficient, though it’s not completely smokeless. Smoke is visible and detectable at the start and end of the burn, but during peak burning, it’s minimal and clean. Weighing only 22 pounds, it’s perfect for camping, road trips, and picnics.

Fuel Source: Wood | Material: Stainless steel, alloy steel | Dimensions: 24 by 22 inches | Weight: 22 pounds

Top Pick for Groups

The Tiki Social Smokeless Fire Pit combines style and ease of use, with minimal smoke during the main burn. Its inviting ambiance makes it perfect for hosting, and it’s incredibly simple to operate.

Assembly involves three main pieces and three legs, which we put together in minutes using the included Allen wrench and six bolts. The bolts were slightly challenging to tighten, so setup took about 15 minutes. The instructions were clear, and the fire ignited on the first attempt, burning steadily within three minutes.

We felt the warmth up to 5 feet away, and the heat was evenly distributed around the fire pit. Despite testing it in a windy area, the wind had no noticeable effect. Adding logs gradually and one at a time felt entirely safe. Smoke was only visible during the first few minutes of ignition, and it was significantly less than a traditional fire (about 75% reduction). Once the initial paper burned off, the smoke was barely detectable, though a faint odor lingered on clothing afterward.

The amount of ash produced was typical, and cleanup was straightforward—once cooled, we lifted the base and disposed of the ashes. The fire pit comfortably accommodates four to six chairs around it. While it has handles for easier transport, it can’t be moved as a single unit since the base and pit must be carried separately (and no carrying case is included). 

The fire pit includes a weather-resistant cover that extends nearly to the ground and can be secured tightly, offering full protection. It performed consistently during testing, providing reliable heat, and showed no signs of wear other than minor discoloration inside. 

Fuel Source: Wood | Material: Stainless steel | Dimensions: 25.5 by 17.7 inches | Weight: 32 pounds

Final Recommendation

Our top choice for the best smokeless gas fire pit is the Outland Living Firebowl 883, known for its quick ignition, smoke-free operation, and adjustable flame. It’s affordable, durable, and performed flawlessly after six months of testing. For the best wood-burning smokeless fire pit, we recommend the Solo Stove Yukon 2.0, which features a sleek design, premium rust-resistant materials, and completely smokeless performance.

Our Testing Methodology

We tested 28 of the top-selling fire pits in real-world scenarios, evaluating their heating efficiency, design, smoke management, durability, and overall value. 

After unboxing and assembling the fire pits, we noted the ease or difficulty of setup, the time required, and any included accessories. We then ignited the fires, assessing how simple or time-consuming the process was.

Once the fire was lit, we measured the distance at which the heat could still be felt and circled the fire pit to assess the consistency of the warmth. We replenished fuel as necessary and allowed the fire to extinguish naturally when we decided to end the evening. We documented the amount of fuel consumed, including the moisture content of the wood, along with the weather and wind conditions during our tests. We also noted the number of people who could comfortably gather around the pit while still feeling the heat, the ease of adding more fuel, the duration before additional fuel was needed, and the size and brightness of the flames. Special attention was given to the amount of smoke produced and the intensity of its odor.

Additionally, we used the flames for cooking, where possible, and evaluated the simplicity of this process. After the fire died down and the pit cooled, we removed the ash, observing the quantity generated and the effort required for cleaning.

Our initial testing spanned 30 hours to evaluate performance, followed by a six-month assessment to monitor durability, longevity, and ongoing performance. We recorded any changes, signs of wear, or other significant observations over this period.

How to Shop for Fire Pits Like a Pro

Material

When selecting a smokeless fire pit, the primary consideration is ensuring the materials are robust enough to endure high heat and outdoor environments. Premium smokeless fire pits constructed from sturdy materials such as stainless steel (a widely used option, as noted by Shaunfield) or heavy-duty cast iron are ideal for this purpose.

Apart from stainless steel and cast iron, fire pits can also be crafted from various metals like carbon steel, aluminum, and copper, as well as other durable materials such as stone, ceramic, clay, or concrete. These materials share the common traits of resilience and fire resistance. All our selected options meet this criterion.

Size, Weight, and Portability

Smokeless fire pits come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and weights to suit different preferences and requirements. Our top choice for a tabletop option, the Solo Stove Mesa, is incredibly lightweight at just 1.4 pounds and is the most compact fire pit on our list. In contrast, the Hampton Bay Crossridge Gas Fire Pit is the largest, measuring 30 by 25 inches and weighing a substantial 90 pounds.

“Think about where and how you plan to use your fire pit,” advises Bumachar. “Compact and lightweight models are great for activities like camping, beach outings, or tailgating because they’re easy to transport, whereas larger models are better suited for backyard events.”

If you intend to travel with your fire pit, consider its portability and storage convenience, which largely depend on its size and weight. For hosting big gatherings, a small fire pit may not suffice, but if you have a small garden or patio, a large model might be unnecessary.

Murphy notes that larger, heavier smokeless fire pits provide greater stability. While they may be too cumbersome to move in and out of storage frequently, their weight ensures they remain secure and won’t tip over or be blown away by strong winds.

Fuel Type

“The type of fuel you choose is critical, as it affects heat production, usability, and the overall enjoyment of your fire pit,” explains Bumachar. Smokeless fire pits primarily use wood or wood pellets, natural gas or propane, and charcoal. For wood options, you can select from seasoned hardwood, recycled firewood logs, or high-quality pellets.

“Traditional firewood, like juniper and oak, offers the nostalgic sound of crackling flames, whereas pellets provide consistent, quieter heat with less maintenance,” Bumachar adds.

Most smokeless fire pits, including those in our selection, utilize wood for an authentic fire experience. “Others are designed for gas, offering convenience and easier cleanup, allowing you to enjoy the ambiance of a wood fire without the associated mess,” Murphy notes. She also suggests selecting a fuel type that matches your lifestyle and cooking preferences to achieve the right balance of practicality and atmosphere.

Heat Output

When selecting a smokeless fire pit, review its design and specifications for heat output, which is measured in British thermal units (BTUs). This measurement varies based on the model’s size, capacity, and fuel type.

According to Shaunfield, the typical fire pit generates between 40,000 and 50,000 BTUs. However, larger models can produce up to 200,000 BTUs for those seeking greater heat output. He also emphasizes the importance of using the fuel type recommended in the product manual.

Wood typically produces 20,000 to 100,000 BTUs per hour, while wood pellets and charcoal offer 30,000 to 50,000 BTUs. Propane ranges from 30,000 to 60,000 BTUs, and natural gas can reach slightly higher, up to 80,000 BTUs.

Before choosing a smokeless fire pit, consider the amount of heat required for your space. “Opt for a fire pit with a high BTU rating to ensure it can adequately warm the area and keep you comfortable on chilly nights,” Murphy advises.

Features

Beyond being smokeless, fire pits often include a variety of additional features and accessories tailored to different needs. For safety, experts recommend selecting models with a safety grill or spark screen to contain embers, as well as cool-touch exteriors. Some also come equipped with electronic push-button ignition and automatic shut-off mechanisms.

One of the most practical features to consider is a removable ash pan or detachable base, which makes cleaning your fire pit after use a breeze. Additionally, similar to an outdoor furniture cover, a protective cover is essential to shield your fire pit from weather damage and extend its lifespan. “Choose accessories that not only maintain your fire pit’s condition but also elevate your overall experience,” suggests Bumachar.

More Fire Pits to Consider

Breeo X Series 24 Wood Burning Campfire: This fire pit boasts a rustic design that adds a cool vibe to any outdoor setting. Constructed from stainless steel, it initially appears shiny and silver but gradually develops a beautiful bronze patina, giving it a unique and stylish appearance. While it’s a significant investment, it’s spacious enough for groups, offers a distinctive look, and produces ample heat with very little smoke. In fact, the smoke levels were so low that two individuals with asthma could comfortably sit around it without any issues.

Solo Stove Ranger 2.0: Weighing just 15 pounds, the Ranger 2.0 from Solo Stove is an excellent choice for campers and those with limited outdoor spaces, such as apartment balconies. However, due to its compact size, the logs we used protruded beyond the pit, raising safety concerns. We recommend using smaller wood pieces to avoid this issue. While it doesn’t include a stand or lid, these are worthwhile accessories you may want to purchase separately.

Questions You Might Ask

How do smokeless fire pits work?

Smokeless fire pits utilize advanced airflow technology to minimize smoke exposure for you and your guests. Their double-wall design draws air from the bottom, heats it, and releases it at the top. “This process creates a secondary burn that incinerates additional smoke particles, significantly reducing smoke and increasing heat efficiency,” explains Bumachar.

Are smokeless fire pits really smokeless?

Both Murphy and Shaunfield emphasize that while smokeless fire pits produce far less smoke than traditional ones, they aren’t completely smoke-free. The amount of smoke depends on the fuel type; for wood-burning models, using dry, seasoned wood or pellets is crucial to minimizing smoke.

However, smoke levels aren’t solely determined by fuel. Factors like brand, model, technology, quality, and price also play a role. For instance, our top pick for wood-burning fire pits, Solo Stove’s Yukon 2.0, offers one of the closest experiences to true smokelessness. Its 360° airflow technology ensures complete combustion, efficiently burning off smoke particles—a feature some lower-quality models may lack.

Do smokeless fire pits give off heat?

Yes, smokeless fire pits generate heat. By burning fuel more efficiently and cleanly, they provide warmth while minimizing smoke. This allows you to enjoy the ambiance of a traditional fire pit without the discomfort of smoke-filled air and smoky clothing.

“Smokeless fire pits, like all fire pits, certainly produce heat,” Bumachar confirms. “Their main purpose is to reduce smoke, not heat. They achieve a highly efficient burn that maximizes heat distribution, making them an excellent source of warmth for social gatherings.”

What type of wood is best to use in a smokeless fire pit?

While specific fire pits may have preferred wood types (check the manual for details), there are general guidelines for selecting the best wood for your unit.

“Hardwoods such as oak, maple, and ash are ideal for smokeless fire pits, as they burn hotter and produce less smoke compared to softwoods like pine,” Murphy explains.

Shaunfield notes that hickory is another excellent choice for a slow, hot burn with minimal smoke. For the nostalgic crackling sound, Bumachar suggests juniper and oak, but for consistent, quiet warmth with less maintenance, pellets are the way to go.

Will your clothes smell like smoke after sitting around a smokeless fire pit?

“One of the major advantages of smokeless fire pits is that they typically provide an odorless heating experience, so your clothes won’t retain a smoky smell,” Shaunfield explains. However, if you sit close to the fire for an extended period, there might be a slight scent—though it’s nothing compared to the lingering smoke from a traditional fire pit.

As mentioned earlier, smokeless fire pits are engineered to reduce smoke production during use, though their effectiveness can vary depending on the design and how they’re operated.

“In general, smokeless fire pits reduce smoke through advanced airflow systems that ensure complete combustion of wood particles, which typically results in less smoke sticking to clothes and hair,” Bumachar adds.

Take Our Word for It

This article was authored by Kat de Naoum, a seasoned writer with over 11 years of experience in shopping-related topics. Kat also serves as an editor-at-large at Thomas-Xometry, the premier U.S. online platform for supplier discovery and product sourcing. For this piece, we evaluated and personally tested 28 of the best-selling smokeless fire pits available, considering factors like size, weight, effectiveness, heat output, smoke levels, ease of use, cleaning convenience, price, and overall value. Kat consulted with Luana Bumachar, CMO of Solo Brands; Ashley Murphy, a merchant at The Home Depot; and Brian Shaunfield, store manager at Lowe’s in Charlotte, North Carolina.