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A smokeless fire pit creates an inviting campfire vibe that extends enjoying a backyard space well into the evening. But traditional fire pits can produce a significant amount of unpleasant smoke and ash, which can cause coughing and leave a strong smell on clothing and hair. We tested smokeless outdoor fire pits in our backyards to see how well their double-wall design could create warmth and flickering flames without producing smoke (though depending on fuel, some might produce ash and embers).
Depending on the type, these fire pits can burn gas, wood, pellets, and even biomass (a fuel source from renewable organic material derived from plants and animals). The best smokeless fire pits range in size from small portable appliances weighing less than 20 pounds to full-size versions as wide as 30 inches in diameter.
We tested several popular low-smoke models to find out if they really improved the backyard fire pit experience and to see how durable they are. We also reached out to experts Leroy Hite, CEO of Cutting Edge Firewood in Atlanta, Georgie; and Leah Nanaa, head of content at System Pavers, an outdoor remodeling company in Santa Ana, California. To see how the products below fared, read our test results on some of the top units on the market.
- BEST OVERALL: Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0 Smokeless Fire Pit
- RUNNER-UP: Breeo X Series 24 Smokeless Fire Pit
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Blue Sky Outdoor Living The Ridge Smokeless Fire Pit
- BEST PELLET: Inno Stage Smokeless Wood Pellet Fire Pit
- BEST PROPANE: Outland Living Mega Smokeless Fire Pit
- BEST DESIGN: Tiki Brand Smokeless Patio Fire Pit
- BEST TECH: BioLite FirePit+ Wood & Charcoal Burning Fire Pit
- BEST TABLETOP: Solo Stove Mesa XL Tabletop Fire Pit
How We Tested the Best Smokeless Fire Pits
We determined that the most important factors in choosing a smokeless fire pit included high-quality construction, ease of transportation and assembly, long burn time, low smoke, and less ash than with a traditional fire pit. With the exception of the gas model, the testing process was virtually the same: Assemble the appliance, light the fire, fill the burn chamber to capacity, and then observe the flame quality, burn-down time, and ash volume.
In terms of materials and construction, stainless steel scored best for overall durability, while other types of steel coated with high-temperature paint offer an affordable alternative. When it came to portability, the top performers were smaller and lighter, included carrying cases, and burned a wider range of materials.
To create smokeless fire, these pits have a dual-wall design and outstanding fuel ventilation with unobstructed airflow through the wall and beneath the fuel source, which is integral to top performance. These features also lead to the signature bright flame and reduced ash associated with smokeless fire pits. The best performers achieved the bright secondary burn quickly, sustained it longer, and thus produced less smoke and ash.
Testing Stats
- Products tested: 8
- Hours spent testing: 32
- Tests performed: 5
- Average price: $262.88
Our Top Picks
We tested some of the best smokeless fire pits categorized by size and fuel type. Read on to learn more about their construction and how each one performed.
Best Overall
Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0 Smokeless Fire Pit
This Bob Vila Approved product carries our brand’s highest level of recommendation.
Bob Vila Approved recognizes the household and DIY products that impressed us most in our real-world testing and that exemplify core values of the Bob Vila brand, including craftsmanship, innovation, and value for the dollar. Winners of this designation come recommended by our professional review team and are personally approved by Bob Vila.
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 5/5; Lack of Smoke 4.75/5; Quality 5/5; Portability 4.5/5; Value 4.5/5
Product Specs
- Material(s): Stainless steel
- Size: 19.5-inch diameter
- Fuel source: Wood
What We Like
- Double-walled design delivers excellent flame quality, heat, and smoke control
- Produces almost no ash for easy cleanup after use
- Lightweight 23.3-pound construction; carrying case is included
What We Don’t Like
- No ash drawer, which means users will want to wait for the entire pit to cool before cleanup
This Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0 is large enough to warm a backyard living space yet lightweight enough to transport to a campground or tailgating event. The double-wall design pulls in outside air through holes in the base and releases inside the top rim to provide oxygen for a secondary burn that minimizes smoke output.
Solo Stove products receive lots of attention, and after testing the Bonfire 2.0, we’ve got to say that this one lives up to the hype. After a quick, easy start using natural tinder and a few pieces of kindling, we loaded the burn chamber with firewood pieces about 12 inches long. There was a small amount of smoke while the walls heated up, but the smoke quickly dissipated once the large firewood was well lit. Within about 10 minutes, the secondary burn kicked in for a bright, cheerful display.
The burn down lasted about 2 hours after we’d added the last piece of wood. After about 3 hours, almost no material (coals or ash) was left inside the burn chamber. Overall, the visual flame quality, warming heat (especially with the heat deflector installed), and smoke control were excellent, though the heat deflector somewhat inhibits sightlines. Burn length was good, but fuel goes quickly because of the highly oxygenated burn chamber.
Read our full review: Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0 Smokeless Fire Pit
Get the Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0 smokeless fire pit at Amazon, Lowe’s, The Home Depot, Walmart, or Solo Stove.
Runner-Up
Breeo X Series 24 Smokeless Fire Pit
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 5/5;Lack of Smoke 4.75/5; Quality 5/5; Portability 3.5/5; Value 4/5
Product Specs
- Material(s): Stainless steel and corten steel
- Size: 27.5-inch diameter
- Fuel source: Wood
What We Like
- Heavy-duty construction of 304 stainless and corten steel for extreme durability
- Through-the-floor ventilation maximizes airflow through the fire for improved efficiency
- Dual-wall design facilitates the secondary combustion that eliminates smoke
- Numerous cooking accessories sold separately to enhance this model’s functionality
What We Don’t Like
- At 62 pounds, it’s one of the heaviest we tested; not easily portable
- Price point is significantly higher than some similarly designed models
The Breeo uses a dual-wall design to eliminate would-be smoke as it exits the top of the appliance, creating a bright, warm, and pleasant atmosphere for an evening around the fire. One big difference between the Breeo X series and the Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0 is the focus on durability versus portability. The Solo Stove incorporates thinner steel for an easy-to-carry build that weighs about 20 pounds, but the marginally larger Breeo X Series 24 doubles down on heavy-duty construction. It burns 16- to 18-inch logs and can reside outdoors year-round.
We loved the corten-steel fire bowl’s sturdy build and rustic style. Corten is a high-strength steel that weathers to an earthy iron-oxide finish. The oxidized surface seals off the material beneath, protecting it like paint so that it remains structurally sound. The stainless steel legs made a nice contrast, and both materials are equally durable. The X series is alternatively available with a brushed stainless steel fire bowl for those who prefer the sleek, shiny look.
In action, the Breeo performed exceptionally well. The fire bowl is well oxygenated thanks to 64 air-vent holes in a raised “X” pattern in the bottom, which helps the wood burn fast. We burned through two bundles of firewood in a little more than 4 hours our first time using it. There was no smoke as long as the wood was well seasoned, dry, and did not stick out above the rim. Poor-quality firewood (wet, green, or partially rotten) and overstuffing the firebox led to a higher likelihood of smoke.
This is an excellent heavy-duty product for those who appreciate attention to detail. All of the welds were clean and smooth. The legs sat squarely on a hard flat surface, with no wobble before or after burning, no warping, and no unnecessary moving parts.
Read our full review: Breeo X Series 24 Smokeless Fire Pit
Get the Breeo smokeless fire pit at Ace Hardware (stainless steel), The Home Depot, or Breeo.
Best Bang for the Buck
Blue Sky Outdoor Living The Ridge Smokeless Fire Pit
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4/5;Lack of Smoke 5/5; Quality 4/5; Portability 5/5; Value 4.75/5
Product Specs
- Material(s): Alloy steel
- Size: 11.6-inch diameter
- Fuel source: Wood or wood pellets
What We Like
- Value price, but with excellent smoke control and warmth
- Detachable base fits inside firebox, which then fits inside included carrying case
- Lightweight (14.8 pounds) for fantastic portability
What We Don’t Like
- Padding or cover required under unit as it can damage underlying surfaces
- Burns through pellets faster than the competition
This Blue Sky is lightweight but large enough to warm a backyard get-together or a tailgating event. Its base detaches from the firebox and fits inside it, and it also comes with a carrying case that has a shoulder strap. The Blue Sky logo surrounding the base doubles as a vent to supply airflow to the firebox. It doesn’t have the stainless steel construction of other more expensive models, but it’s more affordable thanks to its black alloy-steel construction.
In testing, we were impressed that this budget pick delivered a comparable performance to the Inno Stage, except the pellets burned up faster and cleaner. Construction is similar as well, but this fire pit for outdoors has more airflow coming through the pellet base grid, resulting in a faster, cleaner burn and higher flames. Burn-down time was about 35 minutes, and all material was burned up within 1 hour. It gave us outstanding visual flame quality with excellent smoke control and warmth, but this pit will need more pellets on hand to keep up with some of the best pellet burners.
Get the Blue Sky Outdoor Living smokeless fire pit at Amazon, Lowe’s, Tractor Supply Co., Walmart, or Blue Sky Outdoor Living.
Best Pellet
Inno Stage Smokeless Wood Pellet Fire Pit
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4/5;Lack of Smoke 5/5; Quality 4/5; Portability 5/5; Value 5/5
Product Specs
- Material(s): Stainless steel
- Size: 15-inch diameter
- Fuel source: Wood pellets
What We Like
- Multiple sizes available to accommodate various outdoor spaces
- Lightweight, portable design includes built-in handles and a carrying case
- Built-in grate supports air circulation and maximum flame production
What We Don’t Like
- Loses flame before all pellets are fully burned
- Metal became discolored after the first burn and might rust over time
A solid build, attractive finish, and versatile size make this smokeless wood fire pit from Inno Stage one of the best pellet-fueled options around. At 15 inches in diameter (other sizes are available), the Inno Stage is large enough for a backyard hangout while still remaining portable thanks to its side handles and carrying case.
Geometric designs in the vents and a stainless steel finish add to its aesthetics as well as its durability. A grate on the bottom and holes on all of its sides promote airflow for the heating chamber while eliminating smoke through secondary combustion.
Pellet models were new to our testing team, so we were happily surprised at their ease of use. We loaded the Inno Stage with a 2-inch layer of wood pellets, applied an ounce or so of charcoal lighter fluid, and lit the pellets in several places. Within a minute or so, the surface was covered with flame, and a few minutes later, the flames reached about 18 inches above the pit, and the secondary burn began.
The burn down lasted about 40 minutes, and a thin layer of glowing pellet embers was left smoldering. Within an hour, virtually all of the material in the chamber had burned up. The visual flame quality and smoke control were excellent, and the warmth was good. With its compact size and mess-free pellet fuel, this could make a convenient choice for urban dwellers and those with smaller patio spaces.
Get the Inno Stage smokeless fire pit at Amazon.
Best Propane
Outland Living Mega Smokeless Fire Pit
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4/5;Lack of Smoke 5/5; Quality 4.5/5; Portability 4/5; Value 4/5
Product Specs
- Material(s): Alloy and stainless steel
- Size: 24-inch diameter
- Fuel source: Propane
What We Like
- Output of 58,000 British thermal units (BTUs) sufficient to warm large spaces like campsites
- 4 pounds of lava rock included, plus an ultraviolet (UV)- and weather-resistant cover
- 10-foot hose keeps propane tank out of sight
- Large control knob makes it easy to adjust flame size
What We Don’t Like
- Gas hose could be a tripping hazard if not placed properly
- Large size, long hose, and need for propane make it less convenient to transport
With an easy-to-light design and no mess to clean up afterward, the Outland Living is a breeze to maintain. Boasting a powerful burner, this large smokeless fire pit is ideal for warming up a chilly backyard or campsite.
More than 4 pounds of lava rock cover the burner, while a 10-foot hose provides enough length to conceal the 20-pound propane gas tank required to fuel it. A large knob on the front of the appliance controls the flame size, and four sturdy feet keep the firebox elevated safely off the ground.
If smoke-free burning is the top goal, then the Outland Living might be ideal. It arrived almost entirely assembled; we only needed to put it in place, install the lava rock, and attach a grill-size propane tank. The burner was a snap to light, and flame adjustment was equally easy. The fire didn’t offer the same visual entertainment value that we got from natural wood or wood pellets, but the heat radiating from the lava rock felt cozy. It bears mentioning that the 10-foot gas hose lies on the ground and could become a tripping hazard, especially after dark.
Get the Outland Living smokeless fire pit at Amazon, Outland Living, Bass Pro Shops, or Cabela’s.
Best Design
Tiki Brand Smokeless Patio Fire Pit
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4.5/5;Lack of Smoke 4.5/5; Quality 4.5/5; Portability 4/5; Value 3.5/5
Product Specs
- Material(s): Stainless steel
- Size: 24.75-inch diameter
- Fuel source: Wood or Tiki Brand wood pack
What We Like
- Wrought-iron feet, built-in handles, and powder-coated steel provide a sophisticated appearance
- Internal airflow system and light-the-bag pellets make for easy fire making
- Removable ash pan with decorative wooden handle is convenient and attractive
What We Don’t Like
- Small burn chamber requires more frequent refilling
- Heavy weight at 43 pounds; best if covered and left in place between uses
With its dark-brown finish, metal bands that curve around the body, and design touches that include wood handles and wrought-iron feet, this Tiki Brand has a sophisticated appearance. It might look good, but it also functions well, thanks to an internal airflow system that creates an efficient burn while producing less smoke and ash than some other models. It comes with a removable ash pan to make post-fire cleanups easier. With a 24.75-inch diameter, it’s big enough for a large backyard.
The largest pellet model we tested, this attractive patio fire pit delivered a big, bright flame and plenty of smoke-free warmth. Two impressive standout features—a steel burn-assist cone and the light-the-bag wood pellets—make this unit a breeze to use. We placed the cone in the center of the pit, laid the bag of pellets on top, and simply lit the four corners of the waxed paper bag. The fire was going strong in mere minutes with no need for lighter fluid or dealing with a partial bag of pellets. (This pit can also be used with conventional firewood.) It provided a superstrong flame for about 30 minutes, and the remaining embers burned up by the 1.5-hour mark.
Get the Tiki Brand smokeless fire pit at Amazon, The Home Depot, Walmart, or Tiki Brand.
Best Tech
BioLite FirePit+ Wood & Charcoal Burning Fire Pit
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4/5;Lack of Smoke 4.5/5; Quality 4/5; Portability 4/5; Value 4/5
Product Specs
- Material(s): Alloy steel
- Size: 27 inches long by 13 inches wide
- Fuel source: Wood or charcoal
What We Like
- Lightweight with foldable legs makes it easy to transport and safe to use on most surfaces
- Mesh sides allow heat to radiate outward; provides nice view of the fire
- Multispeed fan maximizes airflow throughout the burn chamber for efficient fuel use
- Offers 2 different fire-grate height settings for burning either firewood or charcoal
What We Don’t Like
- Recharging the fan battery may not always be practical or convenient while camping
- The appearance of the steel will take on a patina that some users may not love
Can smart technology make campfires better? The BioLite FirePit+ creates highly efficient flames with patented airflow technology and provides better visibility into the fire than any other smokeless fire pit available.
The problem with many other models is that they have solid walls that hide the base of the fire. The BioLite FirePit+ features mesh sides that allow those gathered to actually see the flames. It incorporates a Bluetooth-ready rechargeable four-speed fan and more than 50 air jets to eliminate smoke and improve campfire burn efficiency. It’s compatible with firewood and charcoal, with a dual-setting fire grate and removable grilling grate.
When we tested the BioLite FirePit+, the aspect that really stood out was its versatility. The lightweight build and foldable legs made it easy to transport and easy to use on the ground or on a tabletop (for convenient grilling). The sides, handles, and the surface beneath it didn’t get hot. We were able to pick it up by its handles with our bare hands while the fire was still burning. As a result, it was safe for any surface and safer than other options for those walking nearby. We also really liked getting the full view of the fire.
One thing that felt odd and might be a drawback for some shoppers is the 12,800-milliamp battery requirement. The FirePit+ operates up to 30 hours per charge (on low), which was adequate for two or three fires, but it eventually needed to be recharged. As a result, it might not be the best choice for extended wilderness camping. The only other drawback might be the appearance after many hours of use. The mesh is susceptible to slight warping with intense heat, and exposure to rain will cause rust.
Read our full review: BioLite FirePit+ Wood & Charcoal Burning Fire Pit
Get the BioLite smokeless fire pit at Amazon, BioLite, Bass Pro Shops, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Cabela’s, or REI.
Best Tabletop
Solo Stove Mesa XL Tabletop Fire Pit
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4/5;Lack of Smoke 4.75/5; Quality 4.5/5; Portability 5/5; Value 4/5
Product Specs
- Material(s): Stainless steel
- Size: 7-inch diameter
- Fuel source: Wood or pellets
What We Like
- Delivers an authentic wood-fire aesthetic in a smaller package; ideal for a low table
- Compatible with firewood up to 7 inches long and wood pellet fuel
- Shorter burn-down time and quicker cleanup than some types after fire time is over
- Offers the same smokeless fire and secondary burn as larger Solo Stove models
What We Don’t Like
- Fire must be fed more frequently to facilitate an extended burn time
- Sides of the unit become extremely hot while in use
Love the wood fire aesthetic but lack the time or space for a big bonfire? The Solo Stove Mesa XL might be the perfect solution. This dual-wall 304 stainless steel model uses the same 360-degree airflow system as larger Solo Stove models, only it’s smaller. The stove comes with a foldable and packable stand, fire pit body, flame ring, and drawstring carrying case. When assembled, it measures 7 inches in diameter, 8.6 inches from tabletop to rim, and weighs just 1.4 pounds. As with its larger peers, the Mesa XL lights quickly, burns efficiently, and produces almost zero smoke. Unlike larger models, this one can burn small chunks of firewood or wood pellets.
In our tests, the Mesa XL burned for about 1 hour, fueled by 2.25 pounds of wood pellets. Burn time with firewood varied between 45 minutes and 1.25 hours, depending on the size, shape, type, and condition of the firewood being burned.
The Mesa XL was comfortably sized for use on a coffee table without blocking eye contact with those seated on the opposite side. We appreciated that the feet on the foldable stand were equipped with a nonmarring, nonskid surface that protected the tabletop. As an added bonus, we toasted marshmallows over the fire using the Mesa accessory pack (sold separately).
Most importantly, we noted the Mesa XL’s high score for smokelessness. Wood pellets did not produce smoke. Firewood occasionally produced traces of smoke, mostly when we overloaded the firebox with pieces extending above the rim. At the same time, it produced a high-quality flame and comforting warmth for cool weather. Just be sure and take care to prevent accidental contact with its exterior while it’s burning, as it does become dangerously hot.
Read our full review: Solo Stove Mesa XL Tabletop Fire Pit
Get the Solo Stove Mesa XL smokeless fire pit at Solo Stove, Scheels, Nomadic Supply Company, or BBQGrills.com.
Jump to Our Top Picks
What to Consider When Choosing a Smokeless Fire Pit
While size and fuel type are the key characteristics, other important features of these appliances include material, design, and safety. Ahead, learn about these and other attributes of smokeless fire pits.
Material
Since smokeless fire pits for outside must endure extreme heat as well as the elements, they should be made from durable materials. Most models are composed of either stainless steel or steel alloy. Not only is stainless steel the more aesthetically pleasing of the two materials, but it also naturally resists rust and corrosion and can better withstand intense heat. Alloy steel must be stored indoors or protected with a rainproof cover to prevent rust. Moreover, it discolors under intense heat.
Stainless steel’s durability makes it superior to steel alloy. It also makes it more expensive: A stainless steel smokeless model can cost twice as much as an alloy steel one.
Size
The size of a smokeless fire pit determines the size of the blaze it can create and the amount of warmth it can produce. Most models range between 14 and 20 inches high, while portable smokeless units measure about 13.5 inches in diameter and are suitable for two to four people to gather around.
Larger models can measure up to 30 inches in diameter, which is big enough for gatherings of up to six people. Portable fire pits typically weigh about 20 pounds or less, while large permanent ones can weigh more than 50 pounds.
Design
Unlike classic DIY fire pits, smokeless models eliminate smoke and reduce ash thanks to their dual-wall design. The air space in the unit’s wall becomes a heat-powered convection chamber. It draws cool air in through the holes at the base of the outer wall, where it quickly heats before exiting the holes at the upper rim of the inner wall. That air provides the oxygen to ignite exhaust particles that would otherwise be given off as smoke.
This secondary burn is easily visible as streams of flame that appear to flow from the upper holes above the main fire. The best smokeless fire pits achieve the secondary burn phase quickly, continue that phase for a longer portion of time, and leave behind very little ash after the fire burns down.
Airflow (or ventilation) is the other critical design factor that influences a bright flame and clean burn. In general, increased airflow through fuel causes a livelier flame and faster burn down. Models built with a wire grid achieve maximum airflow for conventional wood-burning fire pits. The bases of pellet burners are made of sheet steel with holes drilled through, and those with the greatest density of holes offer the best ventilation.
Warming Zone
Since smokeless fire pits burn very efficiently, they can reach much higher temperatures than a standard fire pit. Wood and pellet models can reach temperatures of up to 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit, and gas units can produce more than 50,000 BTUs, which is more powerful than many gas porch heaters. This ability to reach extreme temperatures makes smokeless models capable of warming a larger area than a standard unit of similar size.
Fuel Types and Efficiency
Smokeless units use a variety of fuel types, including pellets, propane, and firewood. Propane smokeless fire pits are easy to light and produce no smoke at all; however, they don’t offer the same cozy campfire experience of a wood-burning fire. Moreover, they require a 20-pound propane tank for fuel.
Wood and pellet models have the potential to burn hotter than gas ones, but they do produce ash. Gas models burn cleaner with fewer emissions than wood or pellets.
Though not as efficient as gas, wood pellets contain less moisture than wood and burn more efficiently than firewood. Pellets are less bulky and are better suited for smaller smokeless fire pits.
For firewood users, Hite recommends using high-quality wood and avoiding green, damp, or rotted wood, which will give off an unpleasant acrid, gray smoke. “Be sure to start your fire with good kiln-dried hardwood firewood to achieve good smoke with a pleasant aroma,” he says.
Safety
Smokeless fire pits typically create less ash, so they are generally safer than their standard counterparts. However, they generate intense heat, so keep units at least 10 feet away from structures and place it on brick, stone, or some other type of masonry.
We confirmed this in our interview with Nanaa, who suggests keeping units away from overhanging trees or other combustible material. “It’s not a good idea to place a wood-burning fire pit on a deck, unless you have composite decking (not wood).” She recommends playing it safe and “always placing it on a stand or ceramic disk or mat specifically made for underneath fire pits.”
Some models also include additional safety features, such as a screen to help prevent sparks from causing injury.
The relatively thin steel walls of smokeless fire pits cool as the fire burns out. Allow the fire to burn out on its own rather than attempting to put it out with water or other methods. When all smoke and smoldering stops and the wall has cooled to ambient temperature, it is safe to clean and store. Cooling time varies by size and the amount of material inside.
FAQs
If you’re wondering which fire pits produce the most heat or which material is the most durable, keep reading for answers to these and other commonly asked questions.
Wood-burning fire pits can produce flames that are much larger than those produced by gas models and therefore give off the most heat. Of the wood units, smokeless ones are the hottest, reaching temperatures of more than 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit.
Stainless steel models are significantly more durable than their alloy-steel counterparts because stainless steel resists corrosion and rust. Alloy-steel units should either be stored indoors when not in use or protected with a waterproof cover.
Sadly, no, smokeless fire pits do not keep mosquitoes away. These pests are repelled by the pungent smell of smoke, but since mosquitoes are attracted to carbon dioxide, which all fire produces, they often are attracted to gas and smokeless fire pits.
Meet the Tester
Mark Wolfe is a writer and product tester with an extensive background in the nursery and landscaping industries. For more than 20 years, he mowed, edged, planted, pruned, cultivated, irrigated, and renovated beautiful landscapes. Now he tests and writes reviews about the latest outdoor power equipment, hand tools, lawn care products, and other outdoor living goods.
Additional research provided by Tony Carrick.
