SUNOUTLY 35 inch Wood Burning Fire Pit with Cooking Grill Review: The Backyard Bonfire and BBQ Centerpiece?

There’s a universal magic to a crackling fire. It’s a primal comfort, a gathering point that transforms a simple evening into a memorable event. For years, my own backyard felt like it was missing something. It was a perfectly functional space for a weekend cookout, but it lacked a true heart—a place where conversation could linger long after the sun went down, where kids could experience the simple joy of roasting marshmallows, and where the chill of an autumn evening was a welcome excuse to draw closer together. We were craving that campfire experience without the hassle of a camping trip, a way to reclaim our outdoor space and make it a year-round destination. The challenge was finding a solution that was more than just a metal bucket; we needed something that offered ambiance, functionality, and a touch of style without requiring a permanent, built-in installation.

What to Consider Before Buying a Wood-Burning Fire Pit

A fire pit is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for creating a focal point in your outdoor living area. It extends the usability of your patio or backyard into cooler evenings and seasons, providing warmth, light, and an irresistible ambiance that encourages social gathering. Beyond simply containing a fire, a well-chosen fire pit can double as a rustic grill, a footrest, and a stunning piece of outdoor decor. The main benefits are clear: transforming underutilized space into a cozy retreat, creating a hub for family and friends, and adding a versatile cooking option to your outdoor arsenal.

The ideal customer for this type of product is someone with a dedicated outdoor space—a patio, deck, or yard—who enjoys entertaining and wants to maximize their time outdoors. They appreciate the authentic crackle and aroma of a real wood fire. However, a traditional wood-burning pit might not be suitable for those who live in areas with strict burn bans, have very small or enclosed patios where smoke could be an issue, or simply prefer the instant-on convenience of propane. For those individuals, smokeless fire pits or gas-powered fire tables might be a better alternative, offering less smoke and easier operation at a typically higher price point.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

• Dimensions & Space: The overall footprint of the fire pit is paramount. You must consider not only the diameter of the pit itself but also the necessary clearance around it for safety. A 35-inch pit, for instance, requires a substantial open area, free from overhanging branches or flammable structures, plus enough room for chairs to be placed at a comfortable, safe distance. Always measure your intended space twice before committing.
• Capacity/Performance: This refers to the size of the fire bowl. A deep, wide bowl allows for larger logs and a more substantial, longer-lasting fire with less frequent tending. Look for features that enhance performance, such as built-in ventilation holes, which are crucial for providing the oxygen a fire needs to burn brightly and with less smoke. The inclusion of a cooking grate adds a layer of performance that transforms the unit from a simple heater to an outdoor kitchen appliance.
• Materials & Durability: Most fire pits in this category are made from steel. The thickness (gauge) of the steel is a primary indicator of durability; thicker steel will resist warping from high heat and last longer. A high-temperature powder-coated finish is standard and helps prevent rust, but be aware that this coating can burn off over time with intense use, making the underlying steel susceptible to the elements. For those seeking maximum longevity, cast iron or stainless steel are superior but more expensive options.
• Ease of Use & Maintenance: Consider the entire lifecycle of using the fire pit. How easy is it to assemble? Does it come with necessary tools like a poker or a spark screen? Post-fire cleanup is also a factor; a simple, open bowl is easier to scoop ash out of than a complex design. To ensure a long life, you’ll need a plan for storage or a durable, waterproof cover to protect it from rain and snow, which are the primary culprits of rust.

While the SUNOUTLY 35 inch Wood Burning Fire Pit with Cooking Grill is an excellent choice for many, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, including different fuel types, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:

First Impressions: Unboxing and Assembling the SUNOUTLY Fire Pit

The arrival of the SUNOUTLY 35 inch Wood Burning Fire Pit with Cooking Grill was met with considerable anticipation. The box, while heavy at around 20 kilograms (about 44 lbs), was manageable. Upon opening it, we were immediately impressed with the packaging. As one user noted, “The packaging was pristine. Everything was individually wrapped and packaged.” This was our experience exactly; each of the eight side panels, the base, and the outer ring components were carefully protected, minimizing the risk of scratches or dings during transit. The hardware was neatly bagged, and the instructions were clear and diagram-based.

Assembly is where experiences seem to diverge, and we can see why. The process involves bolting together the eight octagonal side panels to form the main basin, attaching the base, and then securing the outer footrest ring. We found the key was to leave all bolts loose until every component was in place. This allows for the necessary wiggle room to align all the holes. Tightening everything down prematurely will almost certainly lead to frustration, a sentiment echoed by several users who struggled with alignment. One clever user discovered a solution: “you have to flip the panels over and then they will lineup.” Heeding this collective wisdom, our assembly took about 45 minutes for one person, which is consistent with user reports. Once fully assembled, the unit felt surprisingly solid, and its generous size and whimsical star-shaped cutouts gave it a striking presence on the patio, even before its first fire. You can see the unique design and features for yourself online.

A Deep Dive into Performance and Real-World Use

A fire pit’s true test comes when you strike the first match. We spent several weeks putting the SUNOUTLY 35 inch Wood Burning Fire Pit with Cooking Grill through its paces, evaluating everything from the assembly process to its performance as both a heat source and a grill.

Assembly and Build Quality: A Tale of Two Experiences

As mentioned, our assembly process was relatively straightforward, clocking in at under an hour. We credit this to the advice of fellow users: keep everything loose. The instructions are purely visual, but they are logically laid out. However, we cannot ignore the significant minority of users who found it to be a “nightmare to put together.” This seems to stem from slight manufacturing tolerances where holes don’t perfectly align if you apply torque too early. We recommend a patient approach: attach all eight side panels to each other loosely, then attach the base, and finally the outer ring. Only when every single bolt is threaded should you go back and tighten everything down. This method resolves nearly all alignment issues.

Once built, the fire pit feels reasonably sturdy. The octagonal design provides inherent rigidity, and the outer ring adds to the structural integrity. However, this is where we must address the most significant user concern: material quality and longevity. Several users reported issues like “tiny cracks and holes in the metal,” the bottom “starting to sag,” and the unit becoming “off kilter and wobbly.” We inspected our unit closely and found the welds to be functional but not flawless. The steel itself is of a medium gauge, consistent with its price point. This is not a heavy-duty, cast-iron fire pit that will last for generations. It’s a powder-coated steel unit that will absolutely, positively rust if left exposed to the elements. As one user bluntly stated, it started “rusting just a month later.” This is expected if ash and water are allowed to sit in the bowl. To maximize its lifespan, it is crucial to clean out the ashes after each use (once cool) and either store it in a sheltered location or use a high-quality waterproof cover. The initial “smell of paint burning” mentioned by one user was also present during our first fire, which is common as the high-temperature paint cures. It dissipated after the first hour and was not an issue on subsequent burns.

Design, Ambiance, and Heat Output

Where the SUNOUTLY 35 inch Wood Burning Fire Pit with Cooking Grill truly excels is in its primary function: creating a magnificent fire. The dimensions can be slightly misleading, as one user correctly pointed out: “it is not 35 inches of the fire pit it is 35 inches at the base the round part that’s around it.” The actual fire bowl is closer to 28 inches in diameter, but this is still a very generous size. We found it easily accommodates standard-sized logs and allows you to build a substantial, roaring fire.

The “pentagram geometric cut-out design,” which are essentially stars, is the standout feature. They are not just for show. As the fire gets going, they cast beautiful, flickering shadows on the ground, creating a magical ambiance. More importantly, they function as air vents, drawing in oxygen from the sides to feed the base of the fire. This results in a stronger, more efficient burn with noticeably less smoke than a solid-walled pit. The deep bowl contains embers safely, and the outer ring does a fantastic job of creating a natural boundary, keeping guests from getting too close and serving as a convenient footrest. The heat output is excellent, radiating warmth in a wide circle and making it a comfortable gathering spot even on a chilly 40°F (4°C) night. It truly brings back that “heart warming and cozy feeling” of a real campfire, just as one user nostalgically described.

The Surprise Star: The Cooking Grill

We admit we were skeptical about the included cooking grill. Often, these accessories are flimsy afterthoughts. We were pleasantly surprised. The grate is a simple, half-moon design that sits securely on the rim of the fire bowl. This allows you to cook on one side while continuing to feed logs on the other—a clever and practical design. We decided to replicate a user’s experience and roast some hot dogs.

The results were phenomenal. The open-flame cooking imparted a smoky flavor that you simply cannot get from a gas grill. That user’s claim that “they were the best hot dogs we’ve ever had” might sound like hyperbole, but we completely understand the sentiment. The ability to casually grill burgers, sausages, or corn on the cob while enjoying the fire is a massive value-add. This dual functionality elevates the SUNOUTLY 35 inch Wood Burning Fire Pit with Cooking Grill from a simple heat source to the true centerpiece of a backyard party. It’s a feature that really sets it apart in its price category, turning a purchase for warmth into an investment in outdoor dining experiences.

What Other Users Are Saying

Diving into the collective experience of other owners provides a well-rounded picture of the SUNOUTLY 35 inch Wood Burning Fire Pit with Cooking Grill. The sentiment is generally positive, with a strong emphasis on the value and aesthetics. One user summed it up perfectly: “Great product very well packaged and good directions… The stars and over all look of this fire pit is really nice I got good compliments on the size and look of it.” Another celebrated its practicality, stating, “It was the largest one I could find and it’s the perfect size for burning all of our yard waste. Great value for the money.” The surprise hit for many was the cooking feature, with one happy customer exclaiming, “I kid you not, they were the best hot dogs we’ve ever had. Worth every penny!”

However, the feedback is not without its criticisms, which largely center on long-term durability and manufacturing consistency. The most common negative point relates to the material quality. “After 3 fires the metal is all distorted and warped with gaps. Already rusting,” one disappointed user reported. Another noted, “the bottom started to sag and the whole pit became off kilter and wobbly.” These comments highlight the critical trade-off at this price point: you get a large, feature-rich fire pit, but the thinner gauge steel requires diligent care to prevent premature decay. Anyone considering this product should see its full feature set and user reviews to weigh these pros and cons for themselves.

How Does the SUNOUTLY Compare to the Alternatives?

While the SUNOUTLY 35 inch Wood Burning Fire Pit with Cooking Grill offers a compelling package, the market is filled with diverse options catering to different needs. Let’s see how it stacks up against some notable competitors.

1. Solo Stove Bonfire Stand

It’s important to clarify that this is not a fire pit, but an accessory—a stand designed specifically for the popular Solo Stove Bonfire. This product is for a user who has already invested in the Solo Stove ecosystem and prioritizes two things: portability and surface protection. The stand elevates the smokeless fire pit, allowing it to be used safely on heat-sensitive surfaces like wood decks or lawns without scorching them. If your primary goal is a low-smoke, highly portable campfire experience that you can take anywhere and use on any surface, a combination like the Solo Stove and its stand is a premium choice. It’s a completely different category from the SUNOUTLY, which is a larger, stationary, traditional wood-burner focused on ambiance and cooking.

2. Devoko 32 Inch Outdoor Fire Pit Table Waterproof Cover

The Devoko fire pit represents a step towards a more integrated piece of patio furniture. While similar in size, its square table design provides a wide ledge around the fire bowl, perfect for placing drinks or small plates. This makes it more of a “fire table” than a traditional pit. It often includes a spark screen and a cover, adding to its value. A user might prefer the Devoko if they want a fire feature that blends seamlessly with their patio seating set and offers more surface utility. The trade-off is often a shallower fire bowl compared to the SUNOUTLY, meaning it may not accommodate as large of a fire, and the focus is less on rustic cooking and more on a controlled, conversational flame.

3. YSEJOMP 36 Inch Round Foldable Fire Pit Ring

This product is the most minimalist and rustic of the alternatives. It’s not a self-contained pit but a simple galvanized steel ring that you place directly on the ground. This is the ideal choice for someone who wants to create a more permanent, in-ground style campfire in their yard. The YSEJOMP ring’s primary function is to contain the embers and create a clean, defined border for the fire. It’s perfect for large properties, campsites, or for those who want a true, back-to-basics bonfire experience. It offers none of the features of the SUNOUTLY—no raised base, no cooking grill, no decorative cutouts—but provides a larger diameter for a massive fire at a very low cost.

Final Verdict: A Great Value Fire Pit with Important Caveats

After extensive testing and analysis, our verdict on the SUNOUTLY 35 inch Wood Burning Fire Pit with Cooking Grill is overwhelmingly positive, with a few important conditions. This fire pit delivers exceptional value, combining a large, conversation-starting size with a beautiful design and the brilliant addition of a functional cooking grill. It succeeds masterfully in its core mission: to be the heart of the backyard, a place for warmth, stories, and delicious, flame-kissed food. The ambiance created by the star-shaped cutouts is genuinely special, elevating the experience beyond that of a simple steel bowl.

We recommend it wholeheartedly to the backyard enthusiast who understands the product’s trade-offs. This is not a “buy it for life” item. The steel construction requires care and protection from the elements to fend off rust and warping. Assembly requires patience. If you can accept these realities, you are rewarded with a versatile, attractive, and highly functional fire pit that performs well above its price tag. For those looking to transform their outdoor space into a year-round haven for friends and family without breaking the bank, this is an excellent choice. If you’re ready to create lasting memories around a crackling fire, we encourage you to check the latest price and availability for the SUNOUTLY 35 inch Wood Burning Fire Pit with Cooking Grill today.