Grand patio 32 inch Outdoor Fire Pit Review: The Ultimate Backyard Upgrade or a Disappointment?

There’s a magical moment when the sun dips below the horizon, the vibrant colors of dusk fade to a deep indigo, and a familiar chill begins to creep into the air. For years, this was the signal for our outdoor gatherings to wind down. Friends would start gathering their things, conversations would taper off, and the warmth of the day would become a fleeting memory. We longed for a way to extend those cherished evenings, to create a central hub where laughter could continue to echo under the stars. The answer, we knew, was a fire pit—not just a metal ring for burning wood, but a true centerpiece that could offer warmth, ambiance, and a place to gather. The search for the right one, however, is a journey fraught with questions of size, safety, durability, and style. This is the story of our hands-on experience with a model that promised to solve it all: the Grand patio 32 inch Outdoor Fire Pit.

What to Consider Before Buying an Outdoor Fire Pit

A Fire Pits is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for transforming an underutilized patio or backyard into a four-season destination for family and friends. It serves as a natural gathering point, providing radiant heat on cool nights, a mesmerizing focal point for conversation, and a perfect tool for culinary adventures like roasting marshmallows or hot dogs. The primary benefit is the significant extension of your outdoor living season, turning crisp autumn evenings and even mild winter days into comfortable, enjoyable experiences. Without one, your outdoor space often lies dormant for much of the year, a missed opportunity for connection and relaxation.

The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing the desire to maximize their outdoor living space. This includes homeowners with patios, decks, or backyards who love to entertain, families looking to create lasting memories like making s’mores, or couples wanting a romantic ambiance for their evenings outside. It’s for the person who sees their yard as an extension of their home. Conversely, a large, wood-burning fire pit like this might not be suitable for those with very limited space, such as a small apartment balcony, or for individuals who live in areas with strict burn bans. It’s also not ideal for those who prioritize convenience above all else and prefer the instant, smoke-free flame of a propane model.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

• Dimensions & Space: The first rule of fire pits is to measure your space. A 32-inch square model like this requires not only a 32×32 inch footprint but also significant clearance—typically 10-20 feet—from your house, trees, sheds, and any other flammable materials. Always check local regulations for specific clearance requirements before you buy.
• Capacity/Performance: Consider how many people you typically host. A 32-inch model is rated for 4-8 people, which we found to be accurate for comfortable seating around the perimeter. Performance isn’t just about size; it’s about how well the fire bowl’s shape promotes airflow for a consistent burn and how effectively it radiates heat outward to your guests.
• Materials & Durability: Most fire pits in this price range are made from powder-coated steel. This finish provides good initial protection against rust and the elements. However, high heat and exposure to moisture can compromise this coating over time. Thicker gauge steel will always be more durable and less prone to warping, so consider the item’s weight as a rough indicator of material thickness.
• Ease of Use & Maintenance: A wood-burning fire pit requires effort. You need to source and store dry wood, manage the fire safely, and clean out the ash after each use. Look for models with straightforward assembly, as our testing and user feedback show this can be a major pain point. A weather-resistant cover is also a wise investment to protect the finish and prolong its life.

While the Grand patio 32 inch Outdoor Fire Pit is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:

Unboxing and First Impressions of the Grand patio 32 inch Outdoor Fire Pit

The arrival of the Grand patio 32 inch Outdoor Fire Pit was met with anticipation. The box itself was manageable, reflecting the unit’s modest 20-pound weight. Upon opening, each component was neatly packed and accounted for: the four legs, the frame panels that form the tabletop surround, the fire bowl insert, the mesh spark screen, a simple fire poker, and a bag of hardware with an instruction manual. The powder-coated steel had a consistent, matte “Light Black” finish that felt smooth to the touch. The decorative lattice pattern on the side panels was a nice touch, elevating its appearance beyond a simple metal box. It immediately struck us as a piece designed not just for function, but for form, aiming to look good on the patio even when not in use. Compared to more utilitarian, bowl-only fire pits, its table-like structure gave it a more substantial, permanent feel, despite its light weight.

A Deep Dive into the Grand patio 32 inch Outdoor Fire Pit’s Performance

A fire pit’s true worth is only revealed through use—through the assembly process, the first crackling fire, and its ability to withstand the elements and repeated gatherings. We put the Grand patio 32 inch Outdoor Fire Pit through its paces to see if its real-world performance lived up to its promising feature list.

Assembly and Construction Quality: A Mixed Bag

The user manual lays out a step-by-step assembly process that, on paper, looks simple enough. The manufacturer claims easy assembly with no additional tools required, and for the most part, that holds true. The process involves attaching the four legs to the square frame and then dropping the fire bowl into the center. However, our experience, echoed by a number of user reports, suggests that “easy” can be subjective. While one user noted their grandson assembled it in a breezy 30 minutes, we found ourselves aligning with another who stated it was “not very easy to assemble.” The primary challenge stemmed from slight misalignments in the pre-drilled holes. It required a bit of finesse and patience to get all the bolts to thread correctly without cross-threading. It’s a common issue with mass-produced metal furniture, but a frustrating one nonetheless. We also noted the troubling user reports about significant quality control lapses, such as decorative tiles not fitting or missing parts like the handle for the mesh screen. While our unit arrived complete, it’s clear there’s a lottery element involved. Once assembled, the unit feels reasonably sturdy for its 20-pound weight, but it’s not a heavyweight champion. The powder-coated steel construction is standard for this price point and offers decent weather resistance, but we’d strongly recommend a cover to prevent premature rusting if left exposed to rain.

Design, Aesthetics, and Everyday Usability

This is where the Grand patio 32 inch Outdoor Fire Pit truly shines and sets itself apart from simpler, bowl-style pits. The square design with the wide surrounding ledge is a triumph of functional design. This ledge, as one user enthusiastically pointed out, is perfect to “put ya feet on or a glass.” During our testing, this feature was consistently the most praised aspect. It creates a natural buffer zone, keeping guests a safer distance from the open flames, and it’s incredibly convenient for setting down drinks, s’mores supplies, or small plates. This transforms it from a simple heat source into a functional piece of outdoor furniture. Aesthetically, the clean lines and patterned side panels give it a modern look that complements a variety of patio styles. It’s important to clarify the dimensions: the 32-inch measurement refers to the overall tabletop size. The actual fire bowl is smaller, which caught some users by surprise. It’s perfectly adequate for a cozy fire for 4-6 people, but don’t expect to build a massive bonfire. The included mesh spark screen fits securely on top, doing an excellent job of containing errant sparks and embers—a critical safety feature, especially on wooden decks or near dry grass. The poker is basic but effective for its intended purpose: lifting the hot screen handle without burning your hands.

Triple-Threat Performance: Fire Pit, BBQ, and Cooler

The main event, of course, is the fire. The bowl is deep enough to hold a few standard-sized logs and allows for decent airflow, making it easy to start and maintain a pleasant fire. It radiates a comfortable amount of heat, effectively warming those seated around it and creating that irresistible campfire ambiance. However, we must address a critical point raised in user feedback and observed in our long-term testing considerations: the durability of the fire bowl itself. One user reported that they managed to get the pan so hot that it “warped.” This is a credible concern with lighter-gauge steel. To mitigate this and extend the life of the fire pit, we recommend two things: first, avoid building roaring, oversized fires. This unit is designed for ambiance and warmth, not for a massive blaze. Second, consider placing a layer of sand or lava rocks in the bottom of the bowl. This helps distribute heat more evenly and protects the metal from direct, intense contact with the hottest coals. When it comes to cooking, it’s a s’mores-making machine. However, it’s crucial to note that a BBQ grill grate is not included. You can easily roast hot dogs or marshmallows on sticks, but for any serious grilling, you’ll need to source a compatible grate. The final trick up its sleeve is its conversion to a beverage cooler. Once the unit is completely cool and the ash is cleaned out, the fire bowl insert becomes a spacious ice bucket. We tested this during a daytime gathering, and it was a fantastic feature, keeping drinks cold and accessible right at the center of the social hub. This year-round versatility is a feature that really sets it apart in a crowded market.

What Other Users Are Saying

Scouring user feedback reveals a consistent pattern of experiences that closely mirrors our own findings. The sentiment is generally positive, with many owners praising the product’s value and aesthetics. One happy customer called it a “Beautiful very easy to assemble fire pit” and a “very nice addition to your patio,” highlighting its role in social gatherings for making s’mores. Another confirmed its practicality, stating, “We like that it has a ledge to put ya feet on or a glass. It is made very well.” These comments underscore the success of the product’s core design and functionality.

However, the negative feedback is just as consistent and centers on quality control. The most severe report came from a user who received a unit where “5 of the 8 tiles do not fit in place,” making assembly impossible and forcing a return. Others mentioned missing parts, like the ring for the mesh lid. These issues, combined with the warning about the fire bowl warping under high heat, paint a picture of a product that is excellent in concept but can be let down by manufacturing inconsistencies. It suggests that while most buyers are satisfied, a notable minority encounters frustrating problems right out of the box. Prospective buyers can see its full feature set and user reviews to get a complete picture before purchasing.

How Does It Compare? Grand patio 32 inch Outdoor Fire Pit vs. The Competition

The Grand patio 32 inch Outdoor Fire Pit occupies a popular middle ground, but it’s far from the only option. Depending on your specific needs for portability, fuel type, and simplicity, several alternatives might be a better fit.

1. Kikerike 22 inch Portable Collapsing Fire Pit

The Kikerike fire pit exists on the opposite end of the spectrum from the Grand patio model. Its primary focus is extreme portability. Featuring a collapsible frame and a roll-up stainless steel mesh fire bed, it packs down into a small carrying bag, making it the perfect companion for camping, beach trips, or tailgating. It offers none of the aesthetic charm or tabletop functionality of the Grand patio pit. It is purely a tool for containing a fire off the ground. Someone would choose the Kikerike if their number one priority is the ability to take a fire pit on the go and they have no need for a permanent patio fixture.

2. CITYBONFIRES Portable Fire Pit 2-Pack

This isn’t a fire pit in the traditional sense; it’s a “fire in a can.” City Bonfires are small, self-contained units that use non-toxic soy wax and paper briquettes to create a small, smoke-free flame for 3-5 hours. They require zero setup, produce no embers, and are completely extinguished by putting the lid back on. This is the ideal choice for apartment dwellers with small balconies, people who want a quick and clean way to make s’mores without the commitment of a wood fire, or as an emergency heat source. It’s for the user who values ultimate convenience and small-space usability above the heat and ambiance of a larger wood fire.

3. Gas One 22 in Wood Burning Fire Pit

The Gas One fire pit is a more direct, albeit more basic, competitor. It’s a straightforward, 22-inch round wood-burning pit made of durable alloy steel. It’s smaller than the Grand patio model and lacks the defining tabletop ledge and the versatile cooler function. What it offers is simplicity and a focus on durability. For the user who doesn’t need the extra features, doesn’t want the square table aesthetic, and simply wants a robust, no-frills steel bowl to burn wood in, the Gas One is a solid and often more affordable choice. It prioritizes function over form and multi-use capabilities.

Final Verdict: Is the Grand patio 32 inch Outdoor Fire Pit the Right Choice for Your Backyard?

After extensive testing and analysis, our verdict on the Grand patio 32 inch Outdoor Fire Pit is decidedly positive, with some important caveats. Its brilliant 3-in-1 design is its greatest strength, offering a level of versatility that is hard to find at this price point. It successfully functions as an attractive fire pit, a convenient side table, and a party-ready beverage cooler. The wide ledge is a game-changing feature that enhances both safety and convenience, making it a true social centerpiece. It’s the perfect choice for the homeowner who values style and multi-functionality for casual entertaining, from cool autumn evenings to warm summer afternoons.

However, this is not a heavy-duty fire pit for the hardcore enthusiast. The potential for inconsistent quality control during manufacturing and the risk of the fire bowl warping under extreme heat mean that it requires a gentle hand. If you’re looking for a bulletproof pit to host massive, roaring bonfires every weekend, you may want to invest in a thicker-gauge steel model. But if your goal is to create a warm, inviting, and functional hub for your patio that looks great year-round, the Grand patio 32 inch Outdoor Fire Pit offers exceptional value and a fantastic feature set. If you’re ready to elevate your outdoor living space and extend your evenings under the stars, we highly recommend you check the latest price and availability for this versatile fire pit.