Natural Gas or Wood Burning Fire Pits? Compared by Specs
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Choosing between a natural gas vs wood burning fire pit depends on your lifestyle and maintenance preferences. Both the AMS Elementi Manhattan and the TIKI Patio model provide outdoor warmth and ambiance for gatherings. The primary difference lies in the fuel source. One uses natural gas for instant, clean heat, while the other burns wood for a traditional experience. We compare their specifications to help you decide which design fits your patio needs best.
Key differences
| Aspect | AMS Elementi Manhattan 36" Concrete Gas Fire Table | TIKI 25-Inch Smokeless Wood Burning Fire Pit |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Natural Gas | Wood |
| Material | Cast concrete | 16-gauge stainless steel |
| Ignition | Electronic ignition | Manual (implied by wood fuel) |
| Design | Table (36" square) | Smokeless pit (25" round) |
| Weight | 173 pounds | 45 pounds |
| Cleanup | Not listed | Removable ash pan |
Which one should you choose?
Choose AMS Elementi Manhattan 36" Concrete Gas Fire Table if
- You want instant heat with electronic ignition and no ash cleanup.
- You prefer a heavy, permanent table-style centerpiece that weighs 173 pounds.
- You have a natural gas line and want a concrete, square design.
Choose TIKI 25-Inch Smokeless Wood Burning Fire Pit if
- You want a lighter, portable unit that weighs only 45 pounds.
- You prefer the traditional look and feel of burning real wood.
- You want a smokeless design with a removable ash pan for easy maintenance.
Verdict: The AMS Elementi Manhattan suits those who prioritize convenience, instant ignition, and a heavy, permanent table aesthetic. The TIKI Patio model is better for users seeking a lightweight, traditional wood-burning experience with easy ash cleanup. Your choice depends on whether you value fuel convenience or the classic wood fire atmosphere.
Gas Versus Wood Fire Pit Specs
Fuel Type
The AMS Elementi Manhattan uses natural gas as its fuel source. This allows for consistent heat without the need to store or handle combustible materials. You simply connect it to your home’s gas line for immediate warmth. In contrast, the TIKI Patio fire pit burns wood. This option provides a traditional campfire experience but requires you to purchase, store, and load firewood or wood packs. The AMS Elementi Manhattan offers a cleaner, more convenient fueling process, while the TIKI model delivers the classic ambiance of a wood fire.
Design and Shape
The AMS Elementi Manhattan features a square design with a 36-inch width and length. Its cast concrete construction gives it a substantial, table-like presence that serves as a centerpiece. The TIKI Patio model is round, measuring 24.8 inches in diameter. This shape is often considered more inviting for group seating as it lacks corners. The AMS Elementi Manhattan is taller at 36 inches, functioning more like a coffee table, while the TIKI model sits lower at 18.8 inches, closer to a standard fire pit height. Both designs suit outdoor gatherings but offer different visual profiles.
Build Material
The AMS Elementi Manhattan is constructed from cast concrete. This material is heavy, weighing 173 pounds, and provides excellent durability against the elements. It is finished in Manhattan Dark Gray. The TIKI Patio fire pit is built from 16-gauge stainless steel with a black powder-coated finish. This steel construction is significantly lighter at 45 pounds, making it easier to move if needed. While the AMS Elementi Manhattan offers a robust, permanent feel, the TIKI model provides a modern, lightweight alternative that resists rust and weathering.
Ignition and Maintenance
The AMS Elementi Manhattan includes electronic ignition, allowing you to start the fire with the push of a button. It comes with lava rocks to enhance the flame appearance. There is no ash to clean, only occasional maintenance of the gas line. The TIKI Patio fire pit requires manual lighting of the wood. However, it features a smokeless design to reduce ash and smoke. It includes a removable ash pan for easy cleanup. The AMS Elementi Manhattan wins on convenience, while the TIKI model offers a manageable cleanup system for wood burning.
Included Accessories
The AMS Elementi Manhattan includes a canvas cover and lava rocks. The cover protects the concrete surface when not in use. The TIKI Patio fire pit includes a weather-resistant cover and a sturdy stand for setup. It also mentions compatible accessories like a screen, poker, heat deflector, and griddle, though these are sold separately. The AMS Elementi Manhattan provides essential items for immediate use, while the TIKI model offers a versatile platform that can be expanded with additional tools for cooking or safety.
Which fire pit fits your needs
Users wanting instant heat with minimal effort
The AMS Elementi Manhattan features electronic ignition and natural gas fuel. You get immediate warmth by connecting to a home gas line. There is no wood to store or ash to clean. The cast concrete construction includes a protective canvas cover and lava rocks for a finished look. This setup suits those who prioritize convenience and consistent performance.
Buyers seeking lightweight, portable outdoor warmth
The TIKI Patio fire pit weighs only 45 pounds, making it much easier to move than the concrete model. It burns wood and includes a removable ash pan for simple cleanup. The 16-gauge stainless steel body is built for durability. This option works well for patios or decks where you want a classic fire experience without heavy, permanent fixtures.
Shoppers preferring a large, square table design
This model offers a 36-inch square footprint, providing a wider gathering space than the 25-inch round TIKI pit. The cast concrete material gives it a substantial, table-like appearance suitable for modern outdoor living areas. You receive lava rocks and a cover for protection. The larger dimensions allow more people to sit comfortably around the heat source.
Those wanting smokeless performance for gatherings
The TIKI design focuses on reducing smoke and ash, creating a cleaner burning flame. This feature enhances comfort for backyard parties and evening gatherings. The black powder-coated finish adds a modern style. You also get a sturdy stand and weather-resistant cover. This pit is ideal for users who want a classic wood fire but with less irritation from smoke.
Quick picks
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | AMS Elementi Manhattan 36" Concrete Gas Fire Table | Natural gas table users | Check price of AMS Elementi Manhattan 36" Concrete Gas Fire Table on Amazon |
| 2 | TIKI 25-Inch Smokeless Wood Burning Fire Pit | Smoke reduction and durable steel build | Check price of TIKI 25-Inch Smokeless Wood Burning Fire Pit on Amazon |
The products compared
AMS Elementi Manhattan 36" Concrete Gas Fire Table
Best for: Natural gas table users
- Fuel Type
- Natural Gas (what this guide is about)
- Diameter or Width
- 36 inches
- Material
- Cast concrete
- Ignition Type
- Electronic ignition
- Included Accessories
- Canvas cover, lava rock
- Design
- Table
View on Amazon: AMS Elementi Manhattan 36" Concrete Gas Fire Table Affiliate link
This Elementi Manhattan fire pit uses natural gas and features electronic ignition. It is built from cast concrete and measures 36 inches square. The unit includes a canvas cover and lava rocks for heat retention. At 173 pounds, it is a substantial piece of outdoor furniture. You should choose this if you want a permanent gas setup with a modern table design.
Pros
- Natural gas fuel type for continuous supply
- Electronic ignition for easy startup
- Durable cast concrete construction
- Includes canvas cover and lava rocks
Cons
- Heavy at 173 pounds
- Fixed 36-inch height
- No remote control listed
Good fit if
- You want a natural gas fire table
- You prefer electronic ignition over manual
- You need a durable concrete build
Skip if
- You need propane flexibility
- You want a portable lightweight unit
- You prefer a wood burning fire pit
Verdict: Elementi Manhattan 36" Natural Gas Fire Table suits buyers who want a heavy, permanent natural gas table with electronic ignition. It is not for those needing portability or wood burning.
TIKI 25-Inch Smokeless Wood Burning Fire Pit
Best for: Smoke reduction and durable steel build
- Fuel Type
- Wood Burning (what this guide is about)
- Diameter or Width
- 24.8 inches
- Material
- 16-gauge stainless steel
- Ash Cleanout
- Removable ash pan
- Included Accessories
- Stand, cover
- Design
- Smokeless
View on Amazon: TIKI 25-Inch Smokeless Wood Burning Fire Pit Affiliate link
This TIKI wood fire pit uses a smokeless design to reduce ash and improve comfort. It measures 24.8 inches wide and 18.8 inches high, weighing 45 pounds. The body is built from 16-gauge stainless steel with a black powder-coated finish. A removable ash pan simplifies cleanup. You get a weather-resistant cover included. It provides a 4-foot heat radius for outdoor gatherings.
Pros
- Smokeless design reduces smoke and ash
- 16-gauge stainless steel construction
- Removable ash pan for easy cleanup
- Includes weather-resistant cover
Cons
- Wood fuel requires manual lighting and monitoring
- No remote control or ignition system listed
- Screen and poker sold separately
Good fit if
- You want a smokeless wood fire experience
- You prefer durable stainless steel construction
- You need a portable 25-inch fire pit
Skip if
- You want natural gas convenience
- You need a larger 36-inch diameter
- You prefer propane fuel options
Verdict: TIKI 25-Inch Smokeless Wood Fire Pit is a solid choice for those who want cleaner-burning flames and durable steel construction. It suits buyers who prioritize smoke reduction and easy ash cleanup over fuel convenience.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | AMS Elementi Manhattan 36" Concrete Gas Fire Table | TIKI 25-Inch Smokeless Wood Burning Fire Pit |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Natural Gas | Wood, TIKI Wood Packs |
| Diameter or Width | 36 inches | 24.8 inches |
| Material | Cast concrete | 16-gauge stainless steel |
| Ignition Type | Electronic ignition | not stated |
| Ash Cleanout | not stated | Removable ash pan |
| Included Accessories | Canvas cover, lava rock | Stand, cover |
| Design | Table | Smokeless |
| Features | Protective Cover, Lava Rocks | Protective Cover |
| Color | Manhattan - Dark Gray | Black |
| Shape | Square | not stated |
| Dimensions | 36 × 16 × 36 inches | 24.8 × 24.8 × 18.8 inches |
| Weight | 173 pounds | 45 pounds |
| Size | not stated | 25 Inch |
| Model | not stated | 111900168 |
Frequently asked questions
Is a natural gas fire pit easier to use than wood?
Yes, natural gas models offer immediate ignition and consistent heat without manual effort. The AMS Elementi Manhattan features electronic ignition for instant warmth. You simply connect it to a home gas line. There is no wood to store or ash to clean up after use.
Which fire pit produces less smoke?
The TIKI 25-Inch Smokeless Wood Burning Fire Pit is designed for smoke reduction. It provides cleaner-burning flames compared to traditional wood pits. This makes it suitable if you prioritize air quality and easy ash cleanup over the convenience of fuel connections.
Can I move a natural gas fire pit easily?
No, natural gas tables are generally heavy and permanent. The AMS Elementi Manhattan weighs 173 pounds and is made of concrete. It is not designed for portability. You must connect it to a fixed gas line, making it a stationary outdoor fixture.
What is the difference in size between these options?
The AMS Elementi Manhattan is a large table measuring 36 inches in length and width. It stands 36 inches high. The TIKI wood pit is smaller, with a 25-inch diameter and a height of 18.8 inches. Choose based on your available patio space.
Do I need to buy accessories for these pits?
Both units come with protective covers included. The AMS Elementi Manhattan also includes lava rocks for the burner area. The TIKI model features a durable steel build. These included items help maintain the equipment and protect it from weather when not in use.
Which material is more durable for outdoor use?
The TIKI fire pit uses durable steel construction. It is finished in black for a sleek look. The AMS Elementi Manhattan is made of heavy concrete. Both materials withstand outdoor conditions, but the steel pit is lighter and easier to handle if you need to move it occasionally.
Is wood burning better for ambiance?
Wood burning provides a traditional flame and crackling sound. The TIKI model reduces smoke while maintaining this classic experience. Natural gas offers a clean, consistent flame without the visual variety of burning logs. Choose wood if you prefer the natural look and feel of an open fire.