Natural Gas vs Wood Pellet Fire Pits: Which Should You Buy?
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Choosing between a natural gas vs wood pellet fire pit depends on how you want to use your outdoor space. Both AMS Elementi and Rayzi offer distinct heating experiences for patios or gardens. The AMS Elementi Manhattan is a concrete gas table with electronic ignition. The Rayzi heater is a tall carbon steel rocket stove burning wood pellets. One provides instant, clean heat. The other delivers a traditional wood-burning ambiance with adjustable flames. Your choice hinges on fuel availability and maintenance preferences.
Key differences
| Aspect | AMS Elementi Manhattan 36" Concrete Gas Fire Table | Rayzi 72 Inch Wood Pellet Heater |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Natural Gas | Wood Pellets |
| Material | Cast Concrete | Carbon Steel |
| Design | Table | Rocket Stove |
| Ignition | Electronic ignition | Manual (fire starter and ignition gun) |
| Heat Output | Not listed | Up to 5 kilowatts |
| Maintenance | No ash cleanup | Removable ash tray and cleaning rod |
Which one should you choose?
Choose AMS Elementi Manhattan 36" Concrete Gas Fire Table if
- You want instant heat with the push of a button.
- You prefer low maintenance without ash removal.
- You need a sturdy table that integrates seating.
Choose Rayzi 72 Inch Wood Pellet Heater if
- You enjoy the visual appeal of adjustable spiral flames.
- You have access to wood pellets and do not mind manual lighting.
- You want a portable unit with wheels and a rain cap.
Verdict: The AMS Elementi Manhattan suits buyers seeking convenience and a permanent seating solution. The Rayzi heater is better for those who prioritize adjustable flame aesthetics and portability. Your decision rests on whether you value ease of use or visual charm.
Gas Convenience vs Pellet Heat
Fuel Type
The AMS Elementi Manhattan uses natural gas, providing a steady, clean burn without the need to store fuel on-site. You simply connect it to your home’s gas line for consistent heat. In contrast, the Rayzi Wood Pellet Heater requires wood pellets, which you must store in a hopper. The Rayzi features a 6.2 lbs hopper capacity, offering over two hours of flame time per fill. While natural gas offers immediate, unlimited fuel supply, wood pellets provide a distinct aesthetic and require manual refilling. This difference defines the operational rhythm of each unit.
Ignition Method
Ease of startup varies significantly between these two options. The AMS Elementi Manhattan features electronic ignition, allowing you to start the fire with the push of a button. This ensures a quick and hassle-free experience every time. The Rayzi Wood Pellet Heater requires a more manual process. You must pour in pellets, use a fire starter composed of wood shavings and wax, and then use an ignition gun through a dedicated hole. The Rayzi also notes that keeping the filler cap closed during ignition helps prevent smoke. The gas unit wins for pure convenience.
Design and Build
The AMS Elementi Manhattan is a square, 36-inch table made from cast concrete, weighing 173 pounds. It includes a canvas cover and lava rocks for a classic fire pit look. The Rayzi is a tall, 72-inch rocket stove crafted from high-temperature resistant carbon steel, weighing just 50 pounds. It features a 1200mm transparent glass tube for viewing flames and includes a rain cap and cleaning brush. The concrete table offers substantial, stationary presence, while the steel stove is lighter and includes wheels for mobility. Each suits different spatial needs.
Heat Output
The Rayzi Wood Pellet Heater produces an intense flame of up to 5 kilowatts, delivering significant heat output suitable for larger outdoor areas like gardens or patios. The AMS Elementi Manhattan’s specific wattage or BTU output is not listed in the provided data. However, as a natural gas table, it typically provides consistent, moderate warmth. Without explicit heat metrics for the gas unit, it is difficult to declare a winner. Both provide warmth, but the Rayzi explicitly quantifies its power output for comparison.
Maintenance and Cleaning
Cleaning requirements differ based on fuel type. The Rayzi includes a built-in ash-cleaning mechanism and a removable ash tray to collect residue. It also comes with a cleaning brush for exterior maintenance using hot water and detergent. The AMS Elementi Manhattan includes lava rocks, which may need occasional rearranging, and a canvas cover for protection. The data does not specify detailed cleaning protocols for the gas unit beyond the cover. The Rayzi’s dedicated ash removal system and included tools offer a more defined maintenance routine.
Choose the right fire pit
You want clean, instant heat
The AMS Elementi Manhattan uses natural gas for a steady, clean burn. Its electronic ignition starts instantly without manual effort. The cast concrete body weighs 173 pounds, providing stability. You get a 36-inch square table with included lava rocks and a canvas cover. This setup suits you if you prefer low maintenance and consistent warmth.
You need portability and long burns
The Rayzi Wood Pellet Heater weighs only 50 pounds and includes built-in wheels for easy movement. Its 6.2-pound hopper delivers flames lasting over two hours. The carbon steel construction features a transparent glass tube for viewing. A rain cap and cleaning brush are included. This option fits you if you value mobility and extended burn times.
You prefer a table-style design
The AMS Elementi Manhattan is designed as a 36-inch square table. Its cast concrete material offers a durable, high-end look. The electronic ignition ensures reliable operation every time. Included accessories like lava rocks enhance the visual appeal. This choice is ideal for you if you want a functional surface alongside your heating source.
You want adjustable flame control
The Rayzi Wood Pellet Heater features an adjustable damper to control flame size. You can manage the combustion effect to suit your needs. The removable ash tray simplifies cleaning after use. A cleaning rod helps clear residue effectively. This product suits you if you enjoy customizing the fire intensity and managing ash manually.
Quick picks
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | AMS Elementi Manhattan 36" Concrete Gas Fire Table | Natural gas patio heating | Check price of AMS Elementi Manhattan 36" Concrete Gas Fire Table on Amazon |
| 2 | Rayzi 72 Inch Wood Pellet Heater | Decorative vertical outdoor heating | Check price of Rayzi 72 Inch Wood Pellet Heater on Amazon |
The products compared
AMS Elementi Manhattan 36" Concrete Gas Fire Table
Best for: Natural gas patio heating
- 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 burns natural gas and features a cast concrete construction. It measures 36 inches square with a 16-inch width and 36-inch height. The unit weighs 173 pounds and includes electronic ignition, a canvas cover, and lava rocks. You get a durable table-style heater suitable for patios. The design offers a modern look with multiple color options available in the product line.
Pros
- Cast concrete material for durability
- Electronic ignition for easy startup
- Includes canvas cover and lava rocks
- 36-inch square table design
Cons
- Heavier build at 173 pounds
- Requires natural gas connection
- No remote control mentioned
Good fit if
- You want a permanent natural gas fire table
- You prefer cast concrete construction
- You need electronic ignition
Skip if
- You need a portable wood pellet option
- You prefer propane fuel
- You want a lightweight unit
Verdict: Elementi Manhattan 36" Natural Gas Fire Pit suits you if you want a heavy, durable concrete table with electronic ignition. It fits patios needing a fixed natural gas heat source.
Rayzi 72 Inch Wood Pellet Heater
Best for: Decorative vertical outdoor heating
- Fuel Type
- Wood Pellet (what this guide is about)
- Diameter or Width
- 13.7 inches
- Material
- Carbon steel
- Ash Cleanout
- Removable ash tray
- Included Accessories
- Rain cap, cleaning brush
- Design
- Smokeless
View on Amazon: Rayzi 72 Inch Wood Pellet Heater Affiliate link
This Rayzi unit is a 72-inch tall outdoor fireplace burning wood pellets. It features a carbon steel build and a 6.2-pound hopper that sustains flames for over two hours. The design includes a transparent glass tube for viewing the spiral flame and a damper to adjust heat output. It offers a 5-kilowatt burn rate and includes a rain cap for outdoor use. It suits those wanting a tall, decorative heat source.
Pros
- 72-inch height provides a commanding vertical presence
- 6.2 lb hopper capacity supports over 2 hours of continuous burning
- Adjustable damper lets you control flame size and intensity
- Transparent glass tube offers clear views of the spiral flame
- Built-in wheels and handle allow easy relocation
Cons
- Requires manual lighting with a starter and ignition gun
- 50-pound weight makes it heavy to move despite wheels
- No remote control or digital interface for operation
Good fit if
- You want a tall, decorative focal point for your patio
- You prefer the ambiance of a real wood fire
- You need a unit that can be moved to different spots
Skip if
- You want instant, push-button ignition
- You prefer the clean convenience of gas fuel
- You need a compact unit that fits small spaces
Verdict: Rayzi 72 Inch Wood Pellet Rocket Stove fits buyers who want a tall, decorative wood-burning centerpiece and do not mind manual lighting. It is a solid choice for patios where visual impact matters more than convenience.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | AMS Elementi Manhattan 36" Concrete Gas Fire Table | Rayzi 72 Inch Wood Pellet Heater |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Natural Gas | Wood pellets |
| Diameter or Width | 36 inches | 13.7 inches |
| Material | Cast concrete | Carbon steel |
| Ignition Type | Electronic ignition | not stated |
| Ash Cleanout | not stated | Removable ash tray |
| Included Accessories | Canvas cover, lava rock | Rain cap, cleaning brush |
| Design | Table | Smokeless |
| Features | Protective Cover, Lava Rocks | not stated |
| Use | not stated | Backyard, Garden |
| Color | Manhattan - Dark Gray | Black |
| Shape | Square | not stated |
| Dimensions | 36 × 16 × 36 inches | 22 × 13.7 × 72 inches |
| Weight | 173 pounds | 50 pounds |
| Size | not stated | 72 Inch-PH-05 |
| Model | not stated | BL-PH-5 |
Frequently asked questions
Is natural gas or wood pellet better for convenience?
Natural gas is better for convenience. The AMS Elementi Manhattan features electronic ignition, allowing you to start the fire instantly. You do not need to handle fuel or manage a flame manually. In contrast, the Rayzi Wood Pellet Heater requires manual lighting. This process takes more time and effort before you can enjoy the heat.
Which fire pit is heavier and more stable?
The AMS Elementi Manhattan is significantly heavier. It weighs 173 pounds due to its concrete construction. This mass provides stability on patios. The Rayzi Wood Pellet Heater weighs only 50 pounds. Its lighter weight makes it easier to move but less anchored than the gas option.
Do natural gas fire pits require fuel storage?
No, natural gas fire pits do not require on-site fuel storage. The AMS Elementi Manhattan connects directly to your home’s gas line. You get a steady burn without storing bags or tanks. Wood pellet models like the Rayzi require you to store pellets, which takes up space and requires refilling.
What shapes are available for outdoor fire pits?
Shapes vary by model. The AMS Elementi Manhattan is a square table design. It measures 36 inches in length and width. The Rayzi Wood Pellet Heater has a vertical rocket stove shape. It stands 72 inches tall with a length of 22 inches. Your choice depends on your patio layout.
Are protective covers included with these fire pits?
The AMS Elementi Manhattan includes a protective cover. This helps shield the concrete table from weather elements. The provided data for the Rayzi Wood Pellet Heater does not mention a cover. You may need to source one separately for the pellet model to ensure long-term protection.
Which option is better for a fixed outdoor setup?
Natural gas is better for a fixed setup. The AMS Elementi Manhattan is a heavy concrete table that stays in place. It connects to a permanent gas line. The Rayzi Wood Pellet Heater is lighter and vertical. It serves as a decorative centerpiece but does not offer the same permanent, plug-and-play stability.