If you’re trying to decide between a natural gas fire pit table and a propane fire pit table, you’re not alone. The choice often comes down to your lifestyle: do you want the convenience of a fixed line with no refills, or the flexibility of moving your table wherever you want? In this guide, we’ll walk through the trade-offs in cost, installation, heat feel, aesthetics, and safety so you can choose the right setup for your outdoor space.
In this article, we focused mainly on fuel type, but there’s much more to consider when choosing a fire pit table. That’s why we put together a complete buyer’s guide, covering everything from size and shape to style, materials, and other key factors to help you make the suitable decision for your space. You can find the full guide here: Fire Pits & Fire Pit Tables : Complete 2025 Buyer’s Guide
Table of Content
- The Core Trade-Off: Convenience vs Flexibility
- Quick Comparison: Natural Gas vs Propane Fire Pit Tables
- Installation Notes
- Operating Costs & Real-World Usage
- Conversion Kits & Compatibility
- Safety & Clearance Reminders
- FAQs: Natural Gas vs Propane Fire Pit Tables
1. The Core Trade-Off: Convenience vs Flexibility
Problem: You love hosting often, but you’re tired of running out of propane mid-party.
Solution: A natural gas fire pit table gives you endless supply from a fixed line.
Problem: You rent your home or rearrange your patio often.
Solution: A propane fire pit table offers mobility and a quick plug-and-play setup.
2. Quick Comparison: Natural Gas vs Propane Fire Pit Tables
The table below highlights the key differences between natural gas and propane fire pit tables, covering installation, mobility, performance, and aesthetics to help you choose the right option for your space.
That’s why many homeowners choose Natural Gas for permanent patios and Liquid Propane for flexible or smaller spaces.
The image below shows a propane fire pit table - The Cabo Fire Pit - with a customized side table. You can see that the side table was built from the same material as the pit to create a seamless, cohesive look while concealing the tank:
The same fire pit — the Cabo Fire Pit — is shown here without the side table, connected to natural gas to free up more space for seating and sofas:
👉 Most of our fire pit tables are available in both natural gas and liquid propane. Use the filters on the left side of this collection page to quickly narrow down the size, shape, and finish, along with the fuel type you prefer.: Fire Pit Tables Collection.
3. Installation Notes
Natural Gas (NG fire pit tables)
- Plan gas stub location during patio design.
- Use a licensed installer for line connection.
- Include a shut-off valve for safety and convenience.
Propane (LP fire pit tables)
- Position your table where you like.
- Safely route the hose (if using an external tank).
- Keep tanks vented and easily accessible for swaps.
4. Operating Costs & Real-World Usage
Rather than focusing on dollar amounts (which vary regionally), think about usage behavior:
- Heavy use (4–5 nights/week): NG wins. The friction of constant tank swaps gets old fast, and NG provides endless supply.
- Occasional use (weekends, seasonal gatherings): LP wins. It’s cheaper to set up and you only swap tanks every 5–10 evenings.
Windy conditions: No matter the fuel type, add a glass wind guard. It reduces wasted heat by 20–30%.
👉 Browse both fuel types in our Fire Pit Tables Collection
5. Conversion Kits & Compatibility
Some fire pit tables allow you to convert propane ↔ natural gas with a manufacturer-approved conversion kit. Key things to know:
- Use only official kits from the manufacturer (generic kits may void warranty).
- Confirm burner/orifice compatibility.
- Regulators must be swapped when converting.
- Always have a pro do a pressure check after conversion.
This makes convertible models a good choice if you’re currently renting or might install a gas line later.
6. Safety & Clearance Reminders
Can I put a fire pit under a pergola, how far from my house should it be, can it go on a deck? We have the answer for you :
Rules of thumb:
- Place on level, non-combustible surfaces (use deck pads for wood/composite).
- Maintain clearances from walls, soffits, and pergola roofs (check your local code and the manufacturer’s manual).
Always include a shut-off valve for NG lines.
FAQs: Natural Gas vs Propane Fire Pit Tables
Which is warmer—natural gas or propane?
At the same BTU rating, they feel essentially the same. Comfort depends more on wind, seating distance, and flame height than the fuel itself.
Can I convert my propane fire pit to natural gas later?
Yes, but only if the manufacturer supports it with a rated conversion kit. Always use a pro for installation and testing.
Is a gas fire pit table allowed on a balcony?
Often, natural gas fire pits are not permitted on balconies, and even propane may be restricted. Where allowed, look for small propane fire pit tables or tabletop fire pits.