By Colin FosterUpdated November 2026
Choosing a ring for fire pit use is less about looks and more about fit, fire safety and how well the metal holds up to repeated heat. A good ring keeps the fire contained, protects the ground and surrounding area from embers, and gives you a clean, stable base for wood burning. This guide compares seven steel options from the sizes most homeowners look at, including smokeless designs, larger round rims and a few setups aimed at in-ground or above-ground installs. Each pick was weighed on published specifications, brand reputation and common owner feedback patterns, with attention to diameter, wall thickness, coating, airflow and how the ring is meant to be placed.
Our top picks at a glance
- 1
TOP CHOICEBest overallSoulMate Outdoor 40-Inch Outer/36-Inch Inner Fire Pit RingView on Amazon - 2TOP CHOICEBest for small backyardsSoulMate Outdoor 35-Inch Outer/31-Inch Inner Fire Pit RingView on Amazon
- 3
TOP CHOICEBest for smokeless burningHeavy Duty Steel Smokeless Fire Pit Ring with 36-Inch Round InsertView on Amazon - 4
Best for airflow and efficient burns36 Inch Fire Pit Ring, Large Outdoor Campfire Pit with Air VentView on Amazon - 5
Best for raised, spark-protected setups12" Raised Heavy Duty Fire Pit Ring with Spark GuardView on Amazon - 6
Best for large gatheringsFire Pit Ring for Outside Wood Burning, 60in Heavy Duty SteelView on Amazon - 7
Best for big circlesSoulMate Outdoor 46-Inch Outer/42-Inch Inner Fire Pit RingView on Amazon
Our Top Picks
Quick Comparison
| Product | Best for | Key feature |
|---|---|---|
| SoulMate Outdoor 40-Inch Outer/36-Inch Inner Fire Pit Ring | Most backyard fire pits | Solid steel round rim for DIY above or in-ground use |
| Heavy duty steel smokeless fire pit ring (36-inch round) | Smokeless burning | Permanent liner insert with 30-inch inner ring |
| 36 Inch Fire Pit Ring with Air Vent | Efficient, clean burns | Air vent and anti-rust coating |
| 12″ Raised Heavy Duty Fire Pit Ring | Raised installs with spark control | Built-in spark guard and raised height |
| Fire Pit Ring for Outside Wood Burning, 60in | Large group gatherings | 60-inch diameter heavy steel |
| SoulMate Outdoor 35-Inch Outer/31-Inch Inner Fire Pit Ring | Small yards and tight patios | Compact footprint with solid steel build |
| SoulMate Outdoor 46-Inch Outer/42-Inch Inner Fire Pit Ring | Wide seating circles | Large 42-inch inner diameter |
SoulMate Outdoor 40-Inch Outer/36-Inch Inner Fire Pit Ring
SoulMate Outdoor 40-Inch Outer/36-Inch Inner Fire Pit Ring Smokeless,Duty Solid Metal Steel Round Firepit Rim Insert for DIY Fire Pits, Outdoor Above or In-Ground, Camping Garden Patio Backyard.
Best for: Most standard backyard fire pit builds
This is a solid all-round choice for homeowners who want a dependable steel rim for a DIY pit, whether it sits above ground or is set into the soil. The 36-inch inner diameter suits a comfortable wood fire with room for a few chairs around it.
Key specs
- 40-inch outer diameter, 36-inch inner diameter
- Solid metal steel round construction
- Designed for DIY fire pits, above or in-ground
Pros
- Good size for a typical backyard circle
- Works for both above-ground and in-ground setups
- Simple round design is easy to fit into a pit base
Cons
- Requires a level base and some site prep
- Heavier to move once set
Bottom line: A strong default pick for homeowners who want a reliable, mid-size ring without overbuilding.
Heavy Duty Steel Smokeless Fire Pit Ring with 36-Inch Round Insert
heavy duty steel, permanent fire pit rings, backyard bonfire, smokeless firepit, 30 inch inner ring, pit liner insert Smokeless Fire Pit Ring Outdoor Insert 36 Inch Round Steel
Best for: Smokeless burning and permanent pit liners
This ring is aimed at people who want a permanent insert that stays in place and supports a smokeless burn style. It suits in-ground pits and backyards where the ring is meant to stay put for years.
Key specs
- 36-inch round outer dimension
- 30-inch inner ring
- Heavy duty steel for permanent placement
Pros
- Designed as a permanent liner for long-term use
- Smokeless design suits neighborhoods with smoke concerns
- Steel build resists warping under repeated heat
Cons
- Smaller inner space than the larger rings on this list
- Smokeless performance depends on airflow and fuel
Bottom line: Best for owners who want a durable, permanent liner and plan to burn dry, seasoned wood.
36 Inch Fire Pit Ring, Large Outdoor Campfire Pit with Air Vent
36 Inch Fire Pit Ring, Large Outdoor Campfire Pit for Patio Backyard Garden, Smokeless Steel Firepit with Air Vent for Efficient Burning & Anti-Rust Coating, Black Steel
Best for: Efficient burns and airflow control
This model is built for people who care about how the fire breathes. The air vent helps feed oxygen to the fire, which can mean cleaner combustion and less smoke, and the anti-rust coating helps the ring hold up outdoors.
Key specs
- 36-inch diameter
- Built-in air vent for airflow
- Black steel with anti-rust coating
Pros
- Airflow design supports cleaner burning
- Coating helps slow rust in outdoor conditions
- Good mid-to-large size for family use
Cons
- Coating can wear off with heavy use and needs periodic checks
- Airflow benefits depend on how logs are stacked
Bottom line: A good match for owners who want a clean-burning ring with practical airflow built in.
12″ Raised Heavy Duty Fire Pit Ring with Spark Guard
12" Raised Heavy Duty Frie Pit Heat Resistant Campfire Ring with Spark Guard, for Outdoor Backyard, Patio & Camping Use 60 Inch Fire Pit Ring 5FT Galvanized Steel, Wood Burning&Outdoor Fireplace
Best for: Raised installs with extra spark control
The raised height and built-in spark guard make this option suited to setups where embers are a concern, such as near a deck or low fence. It is also a practical choice for camping-style use on a flat patio.
Key specs
- 12-inch raised height
- Spark guard included
- Heavy duty galvanized steel
Pros
- Raised design adds distance from the ground
- Spark guard helps reduce stray embers
- Galvanized steel resists corrosion
Cons
- Raised height can make it less comfortable to sit near
- Larger footprint needs more clear space
Bottom line: Pick this if spark control and a raised burn area are higher priorities than a low, sunken look.
Fire Pit Ring for Outside Wood Burning, 60in Heavy Duty Steel
Fire Pit Ring for Outside Wood Burning, 60in Outdoor Fire Pit, Heavy Duty Steel Burn Pit for Backyard, Camping, Bonfire, Modern Style Large Metal Fire Pit Ring
Best for: Large groups and wide seating areas
At 60 inches, this ring is one of the largest options here. It suits homeowners who host bigger gatherings or want a centerpiece for a spacious yard.
Key specs
- 60-inch diameter
- Heavy duty steel construction
- Designed for outdoor wood burning
Pros
- Plenty of room for large fires and groups
- Modern, clean round profile
- Suitable for bonfire-style use
Cons
- Requires significant clear space and a larger base
- Heavy and difficult to reposition
Bottom line: The right choice for large yards where a big, social fire is the goal.
SoulMate Outdoor 35-Inch Outer/31-Inch Inner Fire Pit Ring
SoulMate Outdoor 35-Inch Outer/31-Inch Inner Fire Pit Ring Smokeless,Duty Solid Metal Steel Round Firepit Rim Insert for DIY Fire Pits, Outdoor Above or In-Ground, Camping Garden Patio Backyard.
Best for: Small yards and tight patios
This compact ring keeps the footprint manageable for smaller spaces, while still offering enough inner room for a cozy wood fire. It works well for patios where a full-size pit would feel crowded.
Key specs
- 35-inch outer diameter, 31-inch inner diameter
- Solid metal steel round construction
- Suited to DIY above or in-ground installs
Pros
- Compact size fits smaller patios
- Same solid steel build as larger siblings
- Easier to place and level than oversized rings
Cons
- Smaller inner space limits group seating
- Less room for larger logs
Bottom line: A practical pick for owners with limited space who still want a proper steel ring.
SoulMate Outdoor 46-Inch Outer/42-Inch Inner Fire Pit Ring
SoulMate Outdoor 46-Inch Outer/42-Inch Inner Fire Pit Ring Smokeless,Duty Solid Metal Steel Round Firepit Rim Insert for DIY Fire Pits, Outdoor Above or In-Ground, Camping Garden Patio Backyard.
Best for: Wide seating circles and bigger builds
With a 42-inch inner diameter, this is the widest option in the SoulMate line here. It suits larger seating arrangements and yards where a generous fire area is part of the design.
Key specs
- 46-inch outer diameter, 42-inch inner diameter
- Solid metal steel round construction
- Designed for DIY fire pits, above or in-ground
Pros
- Generous inner space for logs and seating
- Solid steel suits repeated outdoor use
- Works for both above and in-ground pits
Cons
- Needs a substantial base and clear area
- Heavier to handle during installation
Bottom line: Best for owners building a large, permanent fire circle with plenty of surrounding seating.
Buying Guide
Diameter and inner space
Measure the area you plan to use before you buy. Many homeowners aim for a fire area that leaves at least a few feet of clearance between the ring and any structure, fence or overhanging branch. Inner diameter matters more than outer for fire size, since it determines how much wood fits and how the flames spread.
Good picks for this: SoulMate Outdoor 40-Inch Outer/36-Inch Inner Fire Pit Ring, SoulMate Outdoor 46-Inch Outer/42-Inch Inner Fire Pit Ring
Steel thickness and build quality
Look for heavy-duty steel, since thin metal can warp under repeated high heat. Solid round construction generally holds its shape better than lightweight, thin-walled designs. Check whether the manufacturer specifies gauge or material grade.
Good picks for this: Heavy duty steel smokeless fire pit ring (36-inch round), Fire Pit Ring for Outside Wood Burning, 60in
Smokeless and airflow design
Rings with air vents or smokeless-style inserts are designed to improve airflow, which can help the fire burn hotter and produce less visible smoke. Results still depend on fuel, stacking and wind, so dry, seasoned wood remains important.
Good picks for this: 36 Inch Fire Pit Ring with Air Vent, Heavy duty steel smokeless fire pit ring (36-inch round)
Installation method
Decide whether the ring will sit above ground, be set into the soil or be built into a masonry base. In-ground installs need excavation and drainage planning, while above-ground rings need a level, non-combustible surface. Raised rings may add spark control but change how the fire feels to sit beside.
Good picks for this: 12″ Raised Heavy Duty Fire Pit Ring with Spark Guard, SoulMate Outdoor 40-Inch Outer/36-Inch Inner Fire Pit Ring
Spark control and safety clearance
Embers can travel, especially in wind. A ring with a spark guard or raised profile can reduce stray sparks, but it does not replace proper clearance. Keep fires away from wood decks, dry grass and overhanging limbs, and always have water or a fire extinguisher nearby.
Good picks for this: 12″ Raised Heavy Duty Fire Pit Ring with Spark Guard, Fire Pit Ring for Outside Wood Burning, 60in
Coating and corrosion resistance
Outdoor steel faces rain, humidity and temperature swings. Anti-rust coatings and galvanized finishes help slow corrosion, but they wear over time. Inspect the ring each season and touch up exposed metal if needed. Good drainage around the base also reduces rust.
Good picks for this: 36 Inch Fire Pit Ring with Air Vent, 12″ Raised Heavy Duty Fire Pit Ring with Spark Guard
Size relative to seating and yard
Think about how many people you want around the fire and how much room the chairs need. A ring that is too large can feel empty and overwhelm a small patio, while one that is too small limits fuel and seating. Sketch the layout on the ground with string or stakes before committing.
Good picks for this: SoulMate Outdoor 35-Inch Outer/31-Inch Inner Fire Pit Ring, SoulMate Outdoor 46-Inch Outer/42-Inch Inner Fire Pit Ring
FAQ
What size fire pit ring should I buy?
For most backyards, an inner diameter around 30 to 36 inches gives a comfortable fire with room for a few chairs. Larger yards and group gatherings may call for 42 inches or more. Always confirm clearance from structures and plants before choosing.
Can I use a fire pit ring in the ground?
Yes, many rings are designed for in-ground or above-ground installs. In-ground setups need proper excavation, a level base and drainage. Check the manufacturer’s installation guidance and local rules before digging.
Do smokeless fire pit rings really reduce smoke?
Smokeless designs improve airflow, which can reduce visible smoke when the fire is burning well. Results depend on dry wood, how logs are stacked and wind conditions. Smoke is never fully eliminated.
How do I keep a steel fire pit ring from rusting?
Keep the ring dry when possible, check for rust each season and touch up bare spots with heat-resistant paint made for stoves or grills. Good drainage under the base also helps. Consult the manufacturer for specific care recommendations.
Is a spark guard necessary?
A spark guard helps reduce stray embers, especially in windy conditions or near decks. It does not replace safe clearance or supervision. Always keep water or an extinguisher close by when a fire is burning.
What wood should I burn in a steel ring?
Dry, seasoned hardwood burns cleanly and produces less smoke than green or treated wood. Never burn painted, pressure-treated or glued materials. Check local burn regulations before lighting a fire.
Conclusion
For most backyards, the SoulMate Outdoor 40-Inch Outer/36-Inch Inner Fire Pit Ring is a balanced starting point, with enough diameter and a solid steel build. Smaller patios fit the 35-inch version, while larger seating circles suit the 46-inch model or the 60-inch ring. If smoke control matters most, look at the smokeless insert or the model with an air vent. For raised setups where sparks are a concern, the 12-inch spark-guard ring is the most direct fit. Match the size and design to your space, your fuel and how you plan to use the fire, and always keep safe clearance.
Sources
- Fire safety guidance for outdoor fires and clearance from structures (usfa.gov)
- Consumer safety information on outdoor fire and product hazards (cpsc.gov)
- Standards and public education on outdoor fire prevention (nfpa.org)
Related reading
- Top 7 Movable Gas Fire Pit Options for Patios and Backyards (2026)
- Top 7 Gas Backyard Fire Pit Picks for Patios and Decks in 2026
- Top 7 Fire Pits with Gas Models for Patios and Backyards in 2026
- Top 6 Propane Fire Pit Camp Picks for Camping and Backyard Use
About Colin Foster
Colin Foster is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our backyard living & play guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.
