Introduction
If you’re on the hunt for the best outdoor gas grills, you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we rank and review the best options for every budget. Whether you’re hosting a big family cookout or a quiet dinner for two, the right gas grill can transform your outdoor cooking experience.
Quick Picks for the Best Outdoor Gas Grills:
- Best Overall: Weber Spirit II E-310 – Even heat distribution, three burners, side tables, tool hooks.
- Best Budget: Char-Broil – Affordable, compact, easy to use.
- Best High-End: Weber Genesis E-325s – Superior performance, multiple burners, sear zones.
- Best for Small Spaces: Compact models – Portable, easy to store.
- Best for Large Gatherings: Monument Grills – Large cooking surfaces, multiple burners.
Gas grills are the cornerstone of convenient outdoor cooking. Unlike charcoal grills, gas models ignite quickly with the turn of a knob and heat up in minutes. This simplicity means anyone, regardless of their grilling experience, can cook like a pro.
Another major advantage is versatility. Gas grills can handle everything from quick burgers to slow-cooked ribs. With multiple burners and the option for side accessories, they offer flexibility for different cooking styles and types of food.
To make the right choice, understand what each grill offers and how it fits your needs. We’ll break down the options to help you find the perfect fit for your backyard barbecues.
Best Overall Gas Grills
When it comes to finding the best overall gas grill, the Weber Spirit II E-310 stands out. This grill is a favorite for many reasons, starting with its even heat distribution. Once warmed up, the three temperature control knobs respond quickly, within 30 to 60 seconds. This means you get precise cooking temperatures, which is crucial for grilling perfection.
Key Features
Three Burners: The Weber Spirit II E-310 comes with three burners, providing 30,000 BTUs of power. This allows you to cook different types of food at various temperatures simultaneously. Whether you’re searing steaks or slow-cooking ribs, this grill has you covered.
Side Tables and Tool Hooks: The grill includes two spacious side tables, perfect for holding raw ingredients and cooked food separately. Six tool hooks keep your grilling utensils within easy reach, making your cooking process smoother and more organized.
Customer Service: Weber is known for its exceptional customer service. If you ever run into issues, their support team is quick to assist, ensuring you get the most out of your grill.
User Experience
Users love the Weber Spirit II E-310 for its ease of use and reliability. One user mentioned, “It heats up quickly and cooks steaks to perfection in just a few minutes.” Another praised the grill for its Flavorizer bars, which produce a delicious smoky flavor that enhances the taste of their food.
Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Cooking Area | 529 square inches |
| Number of Burners | 3 |
| Number of Wheels | 2 |
| Number of Side Tables | 2 |
| Warranty | 10 years |
| BTUs | 30,000 |
| Natural Gas Available | Yes |
| Additional Features | 6 tool hooks, compatible cover |
What We Liked
- Heat Distribution: The heat is evenly distributed, with the center slightly hotter than the edges, which is common.
- User-Friendly: The grill is easy to use, making it perfect for both newbies and experienced grillers.
- Durability: Built to last with a solid construction and backed by a 10-year warranty.
What We Didn’t Like
- The built-in thermometer is not always accurate. Serious grillers might want to invest in a dedicated grilling thermometer.
Conclusion
The Weber Spirit II E-310 is a fantastic grill that offers a great balance of performance, durability, and ease of use. Its features make it a top choice for anyone looking to elevate their outdoor cooking game. If you’re searching for the best overall gas grill, this model is tough to beat.
Next, let’s explore the best budget gas grills that offer excellent performance without breaking the bank.
Best Budget Gas Grills
Not everyone wants to spend a fortune on a grill, but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice quality. Here, we’ll look at some of the best budget gas grills that deliver great performance without emptying your wallet.
Char-Broil Performance Series
Char-Broil is a name that often comes up when discussing budget-friendly grills. One standout model is the Char-Broil Commercial 3-Burner. Priced around $550, this grill offers solid performance with its Tru-Infrared technology, which reduces flare-ups and ensures even heat distribution.
- Price: Around $550
- Burners: 3 main burners
- BTUs: 25,500 BTUs
- Cooking Space: 420 square inches
The grill heats up quickly and maintains a consistent temperature, making it ideal for grilling burgers, steaks, and even whole chickens. The side burner is a handy addition for cooking sides or sauces.
Monument Grills Tabletop Propane Gas Grill
For those with limited space, the Monument Grills Tabletop Propane Gas Grill is a compact yet powerful option. Priced at around $149, this grill is perfect for camping trips or small balconies.
- Price: Around $149
- Burners: 2 main burners
- BTUs: 20,000 BTUs
- Cooking Space: 207 square inches
This grill is lightweight and easy to transport, making it a great option for those on the go. It heats up quickly and can handle a variety of foods, from hot dogs to spatchcocked turkeys.
Char-Griller Grillin’ Pro Gas Grill
Another budget-friendly option is the Char-Griller Grillin’ Pro Gas Grill, priced at approximately $350. This grill offers a good balance of performance and affordability.
- Price: Approximately $350
- Burners: 3 main burners
- BTUs: 40,800 BTUs
- Cooking Space: 438 square inches
The Grillin’ Pro heats up fast and holds its temperature well. However, it can get too hot, so it’s best to start with lower heat settings. The two smokestacks help with even cooking, especially for low and slow recipes like ribs.
Ease of Use
All these budget grills are designed to be user-friendly. They ignite quickly, heat up fast, and are easy to clean. Features like side burners and storage cabinets add convenience without significantly increasing the price.
Best High-End Gas Grills
When it comes to high-end gas grills, you want superior performance, excellent heat distribution, multiple burners, and specialized features like sear zones. Let’s dive into some top picks that deliver on these fronts.
Weber Genesis E-325s
The Weber Genesis E-325s is a stellar example of what a high-end gas grill should be. Released in 2022, this three-burner grill offers 787 square inches of cooking space and cast-iron grates for even heat distribution. What stands out the most is its extra-large Sear Zone, which boasts an additional 13,000-BTU burner. This feature ensures you get those perfect, hard sears on your steaks.
Napoleon Prestige 500
Another top contender is the Napoleon Prestige 500. This grill is known for its versatility and ease of operation. It comes with four main burners, a rear infrared burner, and a side burner, providing a total of 80,000 BTUs. The infrared Sizzle Zone is perfect for achieving high temperatures quickly, making it ideal for searing.
However, some users have noted that this model can heat unevenly, which might be a drawback for those seeking perfect consistency across the grill.
Monument Denali 605
For those who love tech, the Monument Denali 605 is a great choice. This six-burner grill features temperature probes that connect to an app on your phone. You can monitor your food’s temperature in real-time, ensuring perfect results every time. The Denali 605 also offers a spacious cooking area, making it ideal for large gatherings.
One drawback is the assembly process, which can be tedious. But once it’s set up, it performs beautifully, delivering tender, evenly cooked food.
Longevity and Durability
High-end gas grills are built to last. Stainless steel construction ensures resistance to rust and corrosion. The Weber Genesis and Napoleon Prestige models, for example, are known for their durability and come with extensive warranties. A well-maintained high-end grill can last for many years, making it a worthwhile investment.
Best Outdoor Gas Grills for Small Spaces
Living in a small space doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice your grilling dreams. There are plenty of compact gas grills that pack a punch without taking up much room. Here are some top picks for best outdoor gas grills that are perfect for small patios, balconies, or even a cozy corner of your backyard.
Monument Grills Tabletop Propane Gas Grill
When space is limited, the Monument Grills Tabletop Propane Gas Grill is a fantastic option. This compact grill is small on the outside but surprisingly spacious on the inside. It can handle a spatchcocked turkey or several large steaks, making it perfect for small families or intimate gatherings.
Pros:
– Lightweight and easy to carry
– Fits on any picnic table
– Great for camping or small balconies
Cons:
– Drip tray can be a pain to clean
Weber Spirit II E-210
The Weber Spirit II E-210 is another excellent option for small spaces. With 450 square inches of cooking space and dual burners, this grill is ideal for two-person households or occasional grillers. Despite its smaller size, it maintains Weber’s high standards for build quality and performance.
Pros:
– Compact design
– Easy to assemble
– Long warranty
Cons:
– Smaller cooking area compared to larger models
Char-Broil Performance Series 2-Burner Gas Grill
If you’re really tight on space, the Char-Broil Performance Series 2-Burner Gas Grill is a great pick. When the metal sides are folded down, it takes up a little over four square feet. It’s perfect for small decks or balconies but still offers 300 square inches of cooking space.
Pros:
– Space-saving design
– Electronic ignition system
– Built-in thermometer
Cons:
– Limited cooking area
Weber Q1200 Gas Grill
For those who need something even more portable, the Weber Q1200 Gas Grill is a top choice. Despite its small size, this grill performs like a larger model. It heats up quickly and evenly, making it perfect for camping, picnics, or small patios.
Pros:
– Portable design
– Even heat distribution
– Easy to clean
Cons:
– Heavier for a portable grill
Cuisinart Venture Gas Grill
The Cuisinart Venture Gas Grill is another excellent portable option. It’s designed for open, hibachi-style grilling and heats up quickly. While it’s best for small-group cooking, it offers a unique compact design that makes it easy to transport and store.
Pros:
– Compact and portable
– Quick setup
– Good heat retention
Cons:
– Cooler spots in the center
If you have limited outdoor space, these compact gas grills offer the perfect solution. They are easy to store, portable, and still provide excellent grilling performance. Whether you’re grilling on a balcony or a small patio, you can still enjoy delicious, grilled meals without the need for a large, cumbersome grill.
Best Outdoor Gas Grills for Large Gatherings
When you’re hosting a big family cookout or a neighborhood BBQ, you need a grill that can handle the heat—literally. Here are some features to look for in the best outdoor gas grills designed for large gatherings:
Large Cooking Surfaces
A spacious cooking surface is essential. You need room to grill multiple items at once, from burgers and hot dogs to vegetables and steaks. Look for grills with at least 500-700 square inches of primary cooking space. This will ensure you can cook for a crowd without having to do it in shifts.
Multiple Burners
More burners mean more control over your cooking zones. Having at least three to six burners allows you to create different heat zones for various types of food. For instance, you can sear steaks on one side while slow-cooking ribs on the other. The Monument Denali 605 6-Burner is a great example, offering ample space and multiple burners for versatile cooking.
Side Burners
Side burners are a fantastic addition for large gatherings. They allow you to cook side dishes like beans, sauces, or even boil corn without having to run back and forth to the kitchen. The Char-Broil Commercial 3-Burner includes a side burner, making it easier to manage all aspects of your meal in one place.
Warming Racks
A warming rack can be a lifesaver during large cookouts. It provides extra space to keep cooked food warm while you finish grilling the rest. This feature ensures everything is hot and ready to serve at the same time.
Family Cookouts
For family cookouts, you want a grill that’s not only functional but also user-friendly. Models like the Weber Spirit II E-310 are praised for their ease of use, even heat distribution, and practical features like tool hooks and side tables. These additions make grilling for a large group less stressful and more enjoyable.
Summary Table
| Feature | Ideal Specification | Example Model |
|---|---|---|
| Cooking Surface | 500-700 sq. in. or more | Monument Denali 605 6-Burner |
| Burners | 3-6 burners | Weber Spirit II E-310, Char-Broil Commercial |
| Side Burners | Included for side dishes | Char-Broil Commercial 3-Burner |
| Warming Racks | Extra space for keeping food warm | Weber Spirit II E-310 |
With these features in mind, you can find the perfect gas grill to make your next large gathering a hit. Now, let’s dive into some frequently asked questions about the best outdoor gas grills.
Frequently Asked Questions about Best Outdoor Gas Grills
Is Napoleon or Weber better?
When it comes to Napoleon and Weber gas grills, both brands have their strengths.
Weber is renowned for its durability and customer service. The Weber Spirit II E-310 is a fan favorite due to its even heat distribution, three burners, and handy side tables. It also has tool hooks and a built-in thermometer, making it a reliable choice for many.
Napoleon grills, on the other hand, are known for their sleek design and advanced features. The Napoleon Prestige 500 is a standout with its easy operation and spacious cooking area. However, it can heat unevenly, which might be a drawback for some.
Heat output and longevity are key factors to consider. Weber grills generally offer consistent heat and long-lasting performance. Napoleon grills, while stylish, may require more attention to achieve even cooking.
What type of gas grill is best?
Choosing the best gas grill depends on your needs and preferences.
Gas grills are popular for their convenience and quick startup. They are ideal for those who want to grill without the hassle of lighting charcoal or waiting for it to heat up.
Charcoal grills offer that classic smoky flavor but require more time and effort to get started. They are great for traditionalists who enjoy the process of grilling.
Electric grills are perfect for small spaces or places where open flames are not allowed. They are easy to use and maintain but may lack the authentic grilling experience.
Pellet grills use wood pellets to infuse food with rich, smoky flavors. They offer precise temperature control and are versatile but can be more expensive to maintain.
Running costs and maintenance vary. Gas grills are usually more cost-effective and easier to clean compared to charcoal and pellet grills.
Are high-end gas grills worth it?
High-end gas grills come with advanced features that can enhance your grilling experience.
Performance is a significant factor. High-end grills often have multiple burners, allowing for various cooking zones. This means you can sear steaks on one side while slow-cooking vegetables on the other.
Heat distribution and retention are also better in high-end models. They are designed to minimize hot spots and maintain a consistent temperature.
Features like built-in thermometers, side burners, and rotisserie kits add convenience and versatility. These grills are often made from high-quality materials like stainless steel, which ensures longevity and resistance to the elements.
While high-end grills come with a higher price tag, their superior performance and durability make them a worthwhile investment for serious grillers.
With these FAQs answered, you should have a clearer understanding of what to look for in the best outdoor gas grills. Next, let’s explore the top picks for small spaces.
Conclusion
Finding the best outdoor gas grill for your needs doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Whether you’re on a tight budget, have limited space, or want top-tier performance, there’s a grill out there for you.
Summary of Best Options for Every Budget:
- Best Overall: The Weber Spirit II E-310 stands out for its even heat distribution, three burners, and user-friendly features like side tables and tool hooks. It’s a reliable option backed by excellent customer service.
- Best Budget: Char-Broil’s affordable models offer compact designs and ease of use without sacrificing performance. Perfect for new grillmasters or those with limited space.
- Best High-End: For those willing to invest, high-end grills like the Weber Genesis E-335 offer superior performance, multiple burners, and advanced features like sear zones and rotisserie kits.
- Best for Small Spaces: Many compact models are designed for easy storage and portability, making them ideal for small patios or balconies.
- Best for Large Gatherings: Larger grills with multiple burners and extensive cooking surfaces are perfect for family cookouts and big gatherings.
At Grill Wizard Oz, we pride ourselves on providing expert-driven content to help you make informed purchasing decisions. Our comprehensive reviews and guides ensure you find the perfect grill for your outdoor cooking adventures.
The right grill can transform your backyard into a culinary haven. So, whether you’re a novice or a seasoned griller, there’s a perfect option waiting for you.
Flame on and happy grilling!
