Fire it up and gather around. An outdoor fireplace creates a warm and inviting hub for relaxing and entertaining in the backyard.

CNET tested 14 fire pit models for all kinds of budgets and categories, including wood-burning, propane and smokeless options. Here’s how they stacked up. Fire pits aren't just for ambiance.

Fire pits are also raised above the ground, so the fire can't spread to lawn grass. If you use a gas fire pit, it's even safer. If you worry the fire is too hot, you can just turn it down ...