How many BTUs do I need in a propane fire pit?

For ambience and mild warmth on a patio, 40,000–50,000 BTU is the mainstream sweet spot and what most fire tables in this roundup deliver. For real radiant heat on cooler evenings or for larger groups, look for 58,000–60,000 BTU. Specialist community threads consistently note that even 50,000 BTU gas pits won't match a wood fire for warmth — they're better understood as ambience plus a moderate heat assist.