Best Gas Grill

Choosing the best gas grill can be overwhelming with so many options available. Below is a detailed guide to help you select the right gas grill based on your needs, followed by a list of top recommendations, pros and cons, and tips for first-time use.

Key Factors to Consider

  1. Budget:
    • Low-end: $200-$400 (Best for small families or casual grilling)
    • Mid-range: $400-$800 (Ideal for regular users, solid features)
    • High-end: $800-$2,000+ (Best for large gatherings, advanced features)
  2. Size and Cooking Area:
    • Small: 300-400 square inches (2-4 burners, ideal for small patios or families)
    • Medium: 400-600 square inches (3-5 burners, best for regular grilling)
    • Large: 600+ square inches (5+ burners, great for large parties)
  3. Heat Output (BTU):
    • Aim for 80-100 BTUs per square inch. A grill with 40,000 BTUs on a 400-square-inch surface is efficient.
  4. Materials and Durability:
    • Stainless Steel: Rust-resistant, durable, and good heat retention.
    • Cast Iron with Porcelain Coating: Excellent heat retention but heavier.
    • Aluminum: Lightweight but less durable.
  5. Additional Features:
    • Side burners (for sauces/sides), infrared burners (high heat for searing), rotisserie for slow cooking, warming rack, and shelves for storage.
    • Temperature Control: Precise control knobs, built-in thermometers.
    • Warranty: Aim for at least 2 years, ideally up to 10 years for high-end models.

Top Gas Grills (2024)

1. Weber Spirit II E-310

  • Price: $549
  • Size: 424 square inches of main cooking space, 3 burners
  • BTU: 30,000
  • Material: Stainless steel burners with porcelain-enameled cast iron grates
  • Warranty: 10 years
  • Rating: 4.7/5

Pros:

  • Even heat distribution
  • Solid build quality, durable materials
  • Easy to clean with its grease management system

Cons:

  • Lacks a side burner
  • No infrared option for searing

Customer Reviews:

  • Positive: “The grill heats up fast and cooks evenly. Perfect for family dinners.” – James, TX
  • Neutral: “Wish it had a side burner for added convenience.” – Sara, CA
  • Negative: “The assembly process took longer than expected.” – Matt, FL

Why Buy It: Ideal for small to medium families, great value for money, and backed by Weber’s reliable reputation.

2. Napoleon Rogue 425

  • Price: $699
  • Size: 425 square inches of primary cooking space, 4 burners
  • BTU: 42,000
  • Material: Stainless steel body with porcelain-coated grates
  • Warranty: 15 years
  • Rating: 4.6/5

Pros:

  • Features a side burner and infrared sear burner
  • Excellent heat retention and even cooking
  • Sleek, modern design with folding shelves

Cons:

  • Higher price point for mid-range grills
  • Smaller cooking space compared to others at this price

Customer Reviews:

  • Positive: “The side burner is a game-changer for making sauces. Excellent heat control.” – Brian, NY
  • Neutral: “It’s a bit on the pricier side, but the features justify it.” – Emma, WA
  • Negative: “Takes time to get used to the infrared burner settings.” – Luke, MA

Why Buy It: Best for grillers who want added features like a side burner and infrared searing while maintaining medium-size convenience.

3. Broil King Regal S590 Pro

  • Price: $1,399
  • Size: 625 square inches of main cooking area, 5 burners
  • BTU: 55,000 main burner, 10,000 side burner, 15,000 rotisserie
  • Material: Stainless steel body, heavy-duty cast iron grates
  • Warranty: Limited lifetime
  • Rating: 4.8/5

Pros:

  • Includes a rotisserie and side burner for added cooking flexibility
  • Superior heat distribution and control
  • Excellent durability with stainless steel build

Cons:

  • Expensive, more suited for advanced grillers
  • Large footprint, requires space

Customer Reviews:

  • Positive: “Perfect for large family gatherings, the rotisserie works wonders!” – David, GA
  • Neutral: “It’s a powerhouse but does take up a lot of space.” – Laura, IL
  • Negative: “The price is steep, but the quality is unmatched.” – Jack, AZ

Why Buy It: Ideal for serious grilling enthusiasts who host large gatherings. High-quality build with advanced cooking options like rotisserie and side burner.

4. Char-Broil Performance 475

  • Price: $319
  • Size: 475 square inches, 4 burners
  • BTU: 36,000
  • Material: Stainless steel and porcelain-coated grates
  • Warranty: 5 years
  • Rating: 4.4/5

Pros:

  • Affordable for a 4-burner grill
  • Good cooking space for small to medium families
  • Sturdy construction for the price range

Cons:

  • No infrared or rotisserie options
  • Lower durability compared to premium models

Customer Reviews:

  • Positive: “Great grill for the price! Perfect for backyard barbecues.” – Samantha, OH
  • Neutral: “Wish it had some more premium features, but it does the job well.” – Chris, MI
  • Negative: “The igniter didn’t last long, but Char-Broil’s customer service was helpful.” – Ben, OR

Why Buy It: Ideal for budget-conscious buyers who still want a reliable, decently sized gas grill without breaking the bank.

First-Time Use Tips:

  • Do’s:
    1. Preheat the grill for 10-15 minutes before cooking.
    2. Season the grates by brushing them with oil to prevent sticking.
    3. Clean the grill after each use with a grill brush to extend its life.
    4. Use a meat thermometer to ensure proper doneness.
  • Don’ts:
    1. Avoid using high heat for the entire cooking process to prevent flare-ups.
    2. Don’t cover the grill until it has fully cooled down.
    3. Don’t use abrasive cleaning tools on porcelain-coated grates.

FAQs:

  1. What’s the difference between propane and natural gas grills?
    • Propane grills offer portability, while natural gas grills are more eco-friendly and require a fixed gas line.
  2. How often should I clean my gas grill?
    • Ideally after every use. Deep clean every few months for heavy users.
  3. How long does a gas grill last?
    • A well-maintained grill can last 5-15 years, depending on the quality and materials.
  4. Can I use my grill during winter?
    • Yes, but ensure proper insulation and monitor the gas consumption, as cold weather can cause the grill to use more fuel.

Conclusion:

If you’re looking for the best overall value, the Weber Spirit II E-310 offers exceptional performance for everyday use. For those who need extra features like infrared searing and a side burner, the Napoleon Rogue 425 is worth the extra investment. Lastly, the Broil King Regal S590 Pro is unmatched for larger gatherings and advanced grillers who need versatility and durability.