Propane vs Natural Gas Fire Tables: Which one fits your backyard?

There’s nothing quite like gathering around a dancing flame on a cool evening, but before you swipe the credit card you have to answer one question: propane or natural gas? Below we break down the real-world differences so you can invest once and enjoy for years.

1. Up-front cost

◦ Unit price: identical for most models (the burner orifice is simply drilled differently).

◦ Hook-up cost: propane arrives ready-to-go out of the box; natural gas requires a licensed gas line ($15–25 per linear foot). Budget $300–600 for a 20-ft run.

2. Heat output

◦ BTU rating is the same on paper, but propane delivers ~10 % more effective heat because its pressure remains constant regardless of pipeline variables.

◦ If you live above 4 000 ft, choose propane—NG loses pressure faster at altitude.

3. Convenience

◦ Propane: swap a 20 lb tank in 60 seconds; keep a spare in the shed.

◦ NG: endless supply, no tank to hide, but you’re tethered to one spot.

4. Aesthetics

◦ Propane tanks must live within 5 ft of the table unless you run an ugly hose.

◦ NG allows a cleaner look—no tank door breaking the furniture line.

5. Environmental angle

◦ NG burns ~15 % cleaner in CO₂ terms and has no tank to recycle.

◦ Propane is still a low-carbon fuel; difference is minor for occasional use.

6. Cold-weather performance

◦ Propane pressure drops below –44 °F (rare) but can struggle around 0 °F if the tank is <¼ full.

◦ NG is unaffected by temperature.

7. Resale value

◦ Home buyers love seeing a quick-connect NG stub—one less project on their list.

◦ Propane keeps you flexible if you redesign the patio later.

Bottom line

Choose NG if you already have a line nearby or plan to stay in the home 5+ years. Choose propane if you rent, move often, or want the easiest plug-and-play experience. Either way, you’ll still get the same mesmerizing flame and the same jealous neighbors.