Outdoor fireplaces are of the same basic design as a traditional indoor fireplace.  Outdoor fireplaces are made from a variety of materials that range from stone, cast iron, brick and concrete to cast iron, aluminium, sheet metal, copper and clay. 

Stone, brick and concrete fireplaces are the longest lasting and look the best season after season (though a large fire can occasionally crack concrete). Clay fireplaces are inexpensive, but do not last as long and need to be kept dry. Sheet metal fireplaces are one of the cheapest outdoor fireplaces on the market. They are often regarded as disposable items, to be thrown out when rusted or at the end of their useful lifespan which is usually only a season or two depending on usage and climate.

Outdoor fireplaces made of cast iron and cast aluminium, are very similar to each another. Cast iron outdoor fireplaces are heavy, solid and long lasting, but prone to rust and also need a fair amount of owner maintenance. So, cast aluminium fireplaces have a solid advantage, being built for safety, low maintenance and durability as well as being portable and rustproof and are only slightly more expensive them their  cast iron counterpart.

Copper fireplaces are extremely attractive. However, they can turn green over time, and their cast iron supports and bases display tend to rust quickly, staining whatever surface they are standing on. Copper,sheet metal and clay fireplaces are also not as safe, or as long lasting, as cast iron and cast aluminium fireplaces.

There are several types of outdoor fireplaces; namely portable gas fire pits, wood burning fire pits and chimeneas. Chimeneas are classified as fireplaces with a chimney that protects guests from fumes and excess heat by venting them up and out of the area where guests are seated. They provide fires with a continuous supply of fresh air and are clean burning, fairly safe and efficient in fuel consumption.

Fire pits, in general, are large metal bowls or open air spaces in which fires are built. Though some fire pits do have chimneys, they do not afford much protection from the elements and are the least safest option of all the outdoor fireplaces.  A strong wind can very often shower family, guests, food, table decorations and neighbouring houses with red hot embers putting everyone and everything in the area at risk.

The best and most popular fuel for outdoor fireplaces is hard wood. This is however difficult to come by in some places, or is prohibited by local authorities due to environmental reasons.