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Tabletop fire pits, also called tabletop fireplaces, provide the cozy aesthetic and charm of a crackling fire but in a small and portable footprint. These compact fire pits are designed to sit atop of a table as an eye-catching centerpiece. Not only do they add a bit of light and warmth, but a decorative fire pit can also add a sense of grandeur to a patio or dining room table.
Shoppers have a wide array of types and styles to consider, depending on where and how they plan to use them. We vetted more than 40 models before testing the following products for indoor and outdoor use, including types fueled by gas, gel, liquid, and wood. If you’re ready to create a cozy and inviting lounging or dining space, we invite you to continue reading our reviews of the top tabletop fire pits.
- BEST OVERALL INDOOR: TerraFlame Wave Tabletop Fire Bowl
- BEST OVERALL OUTDOOR: Solo Stove Mesa Tabletop Fire Pit
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Colsen Indoor/Outdoor Round Tabletop Fire Pit
- BEST PROPANE: Endless Summer GLT1343SP LP Gas Outdoor Fire Column
- BEST GEL: TerraFlame Geo Tabletop Fire Bowl
- BEST DESIGN: Orren Ellis Craddock Bioethanol Tabletop Fireplace
- BEST FIRE BOWL: TerraFlame Stone Tabletop Fire Bowl
How We Tested the Best Tabletop Fire Pits
The best tabletop fire pits are attractive, easy to set up, and safe to use. After researching the specs and customer feedback on dozens of fire pits, we selected the following great options to test in our backyard trials.
Since style is subjective, we chose tabletop fireplaces in a range of designs, making sure to include various shapes, sizes, materials, and colors to suit different decor styles. We prioritized fire pits with various finish options, which makes it easier to match the fire pit to existing decor.
We assembled and fueled each fire pit according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Then we lit them and noted the flame color and size, flame movement, perceived heating ability, and burn times per fuel load. In addition to the functional characteristics, we considered convenience factors. Ease of installation, accessibility of fuel, and broader functionality garnered extra points. These notes from our research and testing were tallied on a rubric to determine the award titles.
Testing Stats
- Products tested: 7
- Time spent testing: 17.7 hours
- Tests performed: 5
- Average price: $99.35
Our Top Picks
In the product reviews ahead, we outline the construction of each fire pit, share performance details from our tests, and relate any concerns that shoppers will want to be aware of before purchasing. Find out if one of our favorites may be the best tabletop fire pit to spruce up your patio or dining table.
Best Overall
TerraFlame Wave Tabletop Fire Bowl
Pros
- Simple, balanced design complements contemporary modern decor
- Sturdy concrete fire bowl does not get hot to the touch
- Includes gel fuel canister that produces a crackling flame
Cons
- Small ornamental flame might not be adequate for gatherings of more than 4 guests
- Produces very little heat; not suitable to warm chilly outdoor gatherings
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 5/5; Warmth 3/5; Durability 4/5; Aesthetics 5/5; Value 4.5/5
Product Specs
- Indoor/outdoor: Indoor or outdoor
- Fuel type: Gel fuel
- Dimensions: 10.625 inches in diameter by 5.125 inches tall
With a beautiful and versatile design plus a charming crackling fire, the TerraFlame Wave fire bowl is the best tabletop fireplace for contemporary homes. This portable fireplace is hand cast from organic concrete and features a subtle, waved design inspired by the slope of ocean waves. It comes in various finishes, and the simple aesthetic gives this fire bowl a modern touch that will suit many spaces. It’s safe to use both inside and outside, and its relatively modest footprint means it can be used on most tables. Each clean-burning fuel canister offers up to 3 hours of burn time.
The TerraFlame Wave fire bowl was the right size for our small and midsize tables, and it made an excellent dining table centerpiece. It produced a bright flame that looked great. The heavy-duty bowl felt sturdy and safe when we used it inside, and it burned well outdoors, although the small flame was battered by all but the gentlest breezes. The proprietary fuel added a nice bit of movement and sound that is not typical of regular gel fuel fires. We would caution those with glass tabletops that this fire pit is hard and heavy, so be careful when placing it.
Get the TerraFlame Wave tabletop fire pit at Amazon, Target, Crate & Barrel, Pottery Barn, or TerraFlame.
Best Overall Outdoor
Solo Stove Mesa Tabletop Fire Pit
Pros
- Offers an authentic wood fire experience with almost no smoke
- Works with either small pieces of firewood or wood-pellet fuel
- Compact size limits the burn time to about 45 minutes after adding pellets
- Kit includes the burn chamber, flame ring, collapsible stand, and a drawstring carry bag
Cons
- The sides and rim of the fire pit become dangerously hot during the fire
- The fire must be fed frequently to maintain a big bright flame
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4.5/5; Warmth 4/5; Durability 4.5/5; Aesthetics 4/5; Value 4.5/5
Product Specs
- Indoor/outdoor: Outdoor
- Fuel type: Firewood or wood pellets
- Dimensions: 7 inches in diameter (XL) by 8.6 inches tall
For a traditional fire pit experience, you can’t beat the sight, sound, and smell of a wood fire. The Solo Stove Mesa offers the fun and romance of a real wood fire in a compact size. It’s made of durable 304 stainless steel that won’t rust or corrode and features a smokeless dual-wall design. It’s available in a stainless steel finish or a choice of five ceramic color finishes. This is an outdoor-only fire pit that is safe to use on all kinds of tabletops with no risk of heat damage. Burn time varies by the fuel type and size, averaging about 45 minutes when the fire pit is loaded with wood pellets.
Although building the wood fire took a little longer than lighting a gas, gel, or liquid fuel fire pit, we loved the authentic experience. This model produced the biggest, most lively flame by far of all the products we tested. Within minutes of lighting, a beautiful flame reached up to 12 inches above the rim. It burned almost entirely smoke-free, as advertised, and was one of the most wind-resistant of all the fire pits we tested. There are two points that shoppers will want to keep in mind with this one. You must feed the fire regularly, so it’s important to keep extra pellets or firewood nearby. Also, although the lower portion of the fire pit remains cool, the upper two-thirds becomes dangerously hot to touch.
Get the Solo Stove tabletop fire pit at Best Buy, Scheels, Nomadic Supply Company, BBQGrills.com, or Solo Stove.
Best Bang for the Buck
Colsen Indoor/Outdoor Round Tabletop Fire Pit
Pros
- Compact and sturdy design is tabletop stable and works indoors or out
- One of the simplest products we tested; easy to fuel and easy to operate
- Uses budget-friendly and easy-to-find rubbing alcohol for fuel
Cons
- With no protective cover, the flame is easily extinguished in the wind
- Open-fuel reservoir requires close attention to prevent fuel spills
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 5/5; Warmth 3.5/5; Durability 4.5/5; Aesthetics 5/5; Value 5/5
Product Specs
- Indoor/outdoor: Indoor or outdoor
- Fuel type: Isopropyl alcohol
- Dimensions: 5 inches in diameter by 3.5 inches tall
If dealing with bioethanol fuels or propane tanks sounds like too much work, the Colsen fire pit is worth considering. All this little fire pit needs to run is a bit of isopropyl alcohol. Its design couldn’t be simpler; made of concrete, it has a small central reservoir that you fill with alcohol and light aflame. The alcohol burns off slowly, providing around 40 minutes of flickering fire. Due to its open-fuel reservoir and lightweight design, however, you’ll want to take extra care and use a sturdy base to avoid jostling or spilling the contents.
This was truly one of the easiest and most accessible fire pits we tested. The fuel is readily available at any grocery, hardware, or drug store. Load it, light it, and let it burn. We recorded burn times of 35 to 50 minutes. The flame color was more yellow than that of the bioethanol burners, which gave it a warmer appearance, but the burn time was shorter. It’s also important to note that the flame must be extinguished before adding more fuel for additional burn time.
Get the Colsen tabletop fire pit at Wayfair or Colsen.
Best Propane
Endless Summer GLT1343SP LP Gas Outdoor Fire Column
Pros
- This piece conveniently comes preassembled (single-use propane tank sold separately)
- Column design and exposed flame are suitable for tabletop or freestanding display
- Adjustable 10,000 British thermal unit (BTU) burner adds welcome warmth for cool-weather comfort
- Compartment inside the column base hides the propane tank for a tidy appearance
Cons
- The lack of a side access point makes it difficult to change the propane tank
- Fire pit is built for outdoor use only, but it does not include a protective cover
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4/5; Warmth 5/5; Durability 4.5/5; Aesthetics 4.5/5; Value 5/5
Product Specs
- Indoor/outdoor: Outdoor
- Fuel type: Propane
- Dimensions: 11 inches square by 15 inches tall
With a large size and stately design, the Endless Summer outdoor fire column is an excellent choice for those looking for a large fire pit. It features a column-style design that makes it suitable for use on a dining or patio table or on the ground as a small stand-alone fire pit. This fire column features a rustic faux-stone finish with a large decorative base that conceals a spot for a 1-pound propane tank (not included) inside.
Because of its larger size, this fire pit puts out a pretty significant amount of heat, so it can double as an outdoor heat source. The Endless Summer fire column produced a big, warm flame—much larger than those from canned fuels. With a fuel bottle in place, this fire pit was easy to operate: Just turn on the gas and light it manually. The gas control knob allowed us to change smoothly from a low flickering flame to a big bright flame.
Installing the gas bottle, however, was a bit awkward since there was no side access door, and the fire stones around the burner would fall off if we tilted the column too far while reaching under with the new bottle. Also, it’s only compatible with the shorter/wider 1-pound gas bottles due to the height of the column; the narrower 14.5-ounce torch fuel bottles are too tall.
Get the Endless Summer tabletop fire pit at Amazon, Wayfair, or Endless Summer.
Best Gel
TerraFlame Geo Tabletop Fire Bowl
Pros
- Chic geometric design complements contemporary, midcentury, and Art Deco styles
- Durable cement construction is built to last and won’t get hot while in operation
- Includes a gel fuel canister that crackles like a fireplace
Cons
- Special crackling gel fuel canister refills may be a bit pricey
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 5/5; Warmth 3/5; Durability 4/5; Aesthetics 4.5/5; Value 4.5/5
Product Specs
- Indoor/outdoor: Indoor or outdoor
- Fuel type: Gel fuel
- Dimensions: 10.625 inches in diameter by 5.125 inches tall
The TerraFlame Geo tabletop fire bowl features a modern geometric design that adds character to indoor or outdoor tables. It comes in six earth-toned finishes and is crafted from eco-friendly concrete to create a contemporary-style fire bowl. The included beach pebbles add a natural touch. The size of this fire bowl makes it suitable as a small fire pit for almost any tabletop. It’s powered by gel fuel that may be burned all in one sitting or snuffed out when partially burned for reuse later on. Once the canister is lit, the flame makes a lovely crackling sound and provides up to 3 hours of warmth and light.
Weighing in at 15 pounds, the TerraFlame Geo was one of the heaviest on our list. We made sure to handle it carefully so as not to accidentally drop it and risk breaking it or damaging the surface below. In action, it was an ideal no-fuss option. The gel fuel was easy to light, easy to snuff out, made an attractive flame, and required no cleanup afterward. After using three cans of fuel, we found our per-can burn time averaged 3 hours and 8 minutes.
Get the TerraFlame Geo tabletop fire pit at Amazon, Wayfair, or TerraFlame.
Best Design
Orren Ellis Craddock Bioethanol Tabletop Fireplace
Pros
- Displays a striking contemporary design in the elliptical base
- Available in 5 different finish options to complement most modern contemporary decor
- The large eye-catching flame is infused with lively motion
- Glass flame guard protects the flame from wind and guests’ hands from the flame
Cons
- Bioethanol fuel is not included with purchase and may not be available locally
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 3.5/5; Warmth 3/5; Durability 4/5; Aesthetics 5/5; Value 4/5
Product Specs
- Indoor/outdoor: Indoor or outdoor
- Fuel type: Bioethanol
- Dimensions: 19.5 inches long by 8 inches wide by 9.5 inches tall
With a stunning design and a variety of color options, the Orren Ellis Craddock bioethanol tabletop fireplace is the best tabletop fire pit for those looking to make a statement. This large centerpiece will be the star of a coffee table or dining room table with its eye-catching modern style. The fire pit’s distinctive elliptical shape provides plenty of space for its long flame feature, and the high-gloss finish is available in a variety of colors. A glass flame guard helps protect passersby from accidentally touching the flame while also giving this fire pit an elevated look. One liter of bioethanol will power the fireplace for up to 5 hours (fuel is not included). The Orren Ellis is safe for both indoor and outdoor use, although it’s best to store it indoors to protect the glossy finish.
The Orren Ellis stood out from our test group because of the elegant shape of the elongated curved base. The design gave it a subtle nautical feel. The fuel system operated by wicking the bioethanol fuel from the reservoir like a torch. While the wick material itself did not burn, it seemed to infuse the flames with livelier motion compared with canned-fuel burners. Since bioethanol fireplaces are not yet common in many locations, be sure to order fuel when purchasing this indoor/outdoor fire pit.
Get the Orren Ellis tabletop fire pit at Wayfair.
Best Fire Bowl
TerraFlame Stone Tabletop Fire Bowl
Pros
- Sturdy concrete construction infuses a sense of permanence and gravity
- Crackling gel fuel emits sounds and movement that replicates a wood fire without the smoke or ash
- Versatile design is well proportioned and neutral in appearance to fit any decor
Cons
- The smaller flame size easily becomes somewhat “lost” in an outdoor setting
- Fuel cost is higher than for other indoor/outdoor fire pits
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 5/5; Warmth 3/5; Durability 4/5; Aesthetics 4.5/5; Value 5/5
Product Specs
- Indoor/outdoor: Indoor or outdoor
- Fuel type: Gel fuel
- Dimensions: 10.625 inches in diameter by 5.125 inches tall
The TerraFlame stone tabletop fire bowl features smooth, rounded curves that complement most decorating styles. This tabletop fire bowl is crafted from durable concrete and comes in four finish options. The thick concrete looks great, plus it’s sturdy and doesn’t become dangerously hot to touch. This small fire pit weighs 15 pounds, so it works for almost any tabletop. Fueled by a can of gel alcohol with special additives for a crackling sound that resembles a wood fire, it burns for up to 3 hours at a time.
Like the other TerraFlame fireplaces on our list, this one tested well for its attractive design and ease of operation. Indoors, the crackling flame became the immediate focus in a quiet room. Outdoors, it became slightly overwhelmed/outsized by wide-open space, and the flame was more susceptible to the whims of the wind. Here, the fire pit served more of a supporting role rather than being the star of the show. The attractive bowl shape also looked like it belonged in the space whether or not the fire was lit.
Get the TerraFlame stone tabletop fire pit at Wayfair, Williams Sonoma, or TerraFlame.
Jump to Our Top Picks
What to Consider When Choosing a Tabletop Fire Pit
Tabletop fire pits offer the coziness and flickering glow of a fireplace but in a portable package. While they aren’t intended to be a significant source of light or heat, they do help to create an enchanting ambience. When shopping for one of your own, consider the fire pit’s intended location, size, burn time, fuel type, and safety features.
Location
Shoppers can choose from both indoor and outdoor firepits. For those looking for flexibility, many options can be used either indoors or outdoors.
If you’re looking to host cozy indoor winter dinner parties, an indoor fire pit for the dining room is an elegant choice. For balmy summer nights, the best outdoor tabletop fire pit options can help create a charming patio lounging space. When it comes to location, any fire pit should always be used as instructed, especially since some outdoor models aren’t safe to use indoors (and vice versa).
Size and Burn Time
These appliances come in a range of sizes, from portable mini burners to grand, striking pieces on par with some of the best gas fire pit or best smokeless fire pit options. Choose a size that suits the intended table, keeping in mind that there should be enough space for guests to sit around the table while maintaining a safe distance from the fire pit.
Burn time refers to how long the fire pit can stay lit without the user needing to refill the fuel source, and it generally ranges from 1 to 5 hours. A longer burn time means less time spent dealing with the fuel.
While these products aren’t usually a significant source of heat, most can emit enough heat to warm up cold fingers and create a cozier seating space. Many emit between 1,000 and 10,000 BTUs of heat output, but some large options can emit up to an impressive 50,000 BTUs. In comparison, many standard 1,500-watt space heaters emit around 5,100 BTUs.
Fuel Type
Tabletop fire pits use either a liquid or gel fuel. Since they’re designed to sit so closely to seated people, the best options will use a clean-burning fuel source that creates minimal smoke or soot. Fuel types can include propane, isopropyl alcohol, bioethanol, ethanol-free fuels, and alcohol-based fireplace fuel gels. For both safety and performance purposes, it’s important to use only the fuel type specified in the fire pit owner’s manual.
When choosing a fuel type, consider ease of use, including accessibility to the fuel type and how difficult it is to change the fuel. Also consider portability; a propane-fueled fire pit will always need a nearby propane tank, whereas fuel gels and liquids are almost always contained within the fire pit.
Safety
While tabletop fireplaces are safe to use, they do have an open flame, which comes with its own inherent risks. Some have safety features to lower the chance of mishaps. To start, it’s always important to use the appliance exactly as instructed. Make sure to use the correct fuel source to ensure the fire pit burns clean.
A good tabletop fire pit should be made of materials that won’t get too hot to the touch, burning anyone who accidentally touches the bowl. To lower the chance of someone coming in direct contact with the flame, some models also have a glass shield. Because of their simple design, many don’t have auto shutoff or other safety features, so supervision is a must when the fire pit is lit.
FAQs
Wondering if a tabletop fire pit is a safe and suitable option for your home? Read on for the answers to some frequently asked questions on using and maintaining these products.
Q. Are tabletop fire pits safe?
Since they have an open flame, these appliances come with an inherent risk of fire or burns. However, if you’re mindful of use and safety directions, they are safe.
Q. Are tabletop fire pits warm?
While they aren’t intended to be heaters, they do emit a bit of heat.
Q. How do I clean and store my tabletop fire pit?
Only handle the tabletop fire pit when it is extinguished and fully cooled. Dispose of the fuel appropriately. A damp cloth should do the trick to remove any dust or leftover residue. For those models with a protective shield, follow the manufacturer’s directions for cleaning the glass (a gas fireplace glass cleaner is usually suitable). Once clean and dry, the fire pit can be stored in its original container or another box to prevent dust buildup.
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 Jasmine Harding.
