Best Entry-LevelGas Grill$449
Weber Spirit E-310
4.5/5
The undisputed king of entry-level, full-size gas grills. Heats fast, cleans easy, and handles a Minnesota winter like a champ.
Honest Reviews from Down Under & Up North
Fire Up Your
Perfect Grill
An Aussie bloke living in Minnesota, testing every grill through brutal winters and scorching summers. No BS — just real reviews.
Top Picks At A Glance
The 5 Best Grills We've Tested
Sortable head-to-head of the highest-rated grills across every category — gas, charcoal, kamado, pellet. Click any column header to sort.
| Action | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Big Green Egg (Large) Top Rated | Kamado Grill | 4.9 | $1,299 | Check Price |
 | Weber Genesis SPX-435 Top-Tier Gas | Gas Grill | 4.9 | $1,599 | Check Price |
 | Yoder Smokers YS640S Competition Grade | Pellet Grill | 4.9 | $2,099 | Check Price |
 | Lone Star Grillz 24x48 Offset Smoker Competition Grade | Offset Smoker | 4.9 | $3,895 | Check Price |
 | Weber Smokey Mountain 18" Competition Proven | Vertical Smoker | 4.8 | $399 | Check Price |
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Tested & Reviewed
The Most Popular Grills Reviewed
Every model that matters — the heavy hitters driving the most search volume and buyer intent, all tested in my Minnesota backyard.
Gas Grills
The volume drivers — these are the grills most Australians and Americans fire up every weekend.
Best Entry-Level
Best Mid-RangeGas Grill$899
Weber Genesis E-325s
4.7/5
The mid-tier workhorse that most serious backyard cooks upgrade to. Better heat distribution, larger cooking area, and the Sear Station is genuinely worth the extra dollars.
Premium PickGas Grill$1,499
Napoleon Prestige 500
4.8/5
The premium alternative grill nerds obsess over. Infrared side and rear burners, incredible build quality, and a rotisserie kit that'll change how you cook chicken forever.
No Flare-UpsGas Grill$369
Char-Broil Performance TRU-Infrared 3-Burner
4.3/5
Infrared technology at a budget price — no flare-ups, even heat, and juicier results than conventional burners.
Top-Tier GasGas Grill$1,599
Weber Genesis SPX-435
4.9/5
Weber's flagship gas grill. The SPX-435 has everything — sear station, side burner, Weber Connect, and build quality that'll outlast your mortgage.
Best Budget GasGas Grill$369
Weber Spirit II E-210
4.4/5
The best gas grill under $400. Two burners, compact footprint, and Weber's legendary build quality — perfect for small patios and couples.
Enthusiast's ChoiceGas Grill$749
Napoleon Rogue XT 425
4.6/5
The grill enthusiast's gas grill. Infrared side burner, stainless construction, and heat distribution that embarrasses most competitors.
Best Value 5-BurnerGas Grill$549
Nexgrill Evolution 5-Burner
4.3/5
The Home Depot best-seller for a reason. Five burners, infrared sear zone, and a ceramic searing system at a price that undercuts Weber significantly.
Premium FlagshipGas Grill$2,899
Weber Summit S-470
4.7/5
Weber's flagship freestanding gas grill. Sear station, smoker burner, rotisserie, and a side burner — every bell and whistle, executed properly.
Best Value Built-InBuilt-In Gas Grill$1,499
Bull Steer Premium 4-Burner
4.6/5
California-built built-in grill at a fraction of Lynx or DCS prices. Solid 304 stainless construction and a lifetime burner warranty.
Best Looking Built-InBuilt-In Gas Grill$1,899
Coyote C-Series 28-Inch
4.5/5
The most stylish built-in grill under $2,000. Ceramic infrared burners, signature interior lighting, and a hood that actually closes square.
Best Aussie GasGas Grill$1,299
BeefEater Signature 3000E 4-Burner
4.5/5
Australia's best-selling premium gas grill. Vitreous enamel firebox, cast iron grates, and the build quality of a $2,000 grill at $1,299.
Charcoal & Kamado
The cult favorites — from the iconic kettle to ceramic kamado powerhouses.
The StandardCharcoal Grill$175
Weber 22" Original Kettle Premium
4.6/5
Fifty-plus years of proven design. Dead simple, wildly versatile, and the benchmark every charcoal grill is measured against.
Best Charcoal StationCharcoal Grill$399
Weber Performer Deluxe
4.7/5
Everything great about the Original Kettle plus a worktable, charcoal storage bin, and gas-assisted ignition.
Top RatedKamado Grill$1,299
Big Green Egg (Large)
4.9/5
The dominant name in ceramic kamado grills. Unreal heat retention — sear, smoke, bake. This ceramic beast holds temp for hours with minimal fuel.
Best InnovationKamado Grill$1,499
Kamado Joe Classic III
4.8/5
The biggest competitor to the Egg, arguably better out of the box. SloRoller insert, air lift hinge, and divide-and-conquer system are genuine innovations.
Built to LastCharcoal Grill$499
PK Grills PK360
4.5/5
Built like a tank from thick cast aluminum. The capsule shape creates excellent two-zone cooking.
Premium KamadoKamado Grill$2,699
Weber Summit Kamado E6
4.7/5
Weber's premium kamado entry — thick-walled porcelain enamel, built-in thermometer, and iGrill compatibility. The Cadillac of ceramic grills.
Portable KamadoPortable Kamado$699
Big Green Egg MiniMax
4.6/5
All the kamado magic in a portable package. The MiniMax travels to tailgates and delivers the same performance as its bigger siblings.
Ultra-Budget PickCharcoal$70
Expert Grill Premium 22-Inch Kettle
3.8/5
The $70 Walmart kettle that gets the job done. Not a Weber, but surprisingly capable for backyard basics.
Best Aussie CharcoalCharcoal Grill$1,799
Everdure HUB II Charcoal Grill
4.6/5
Heston Blumenthal's electric-ignition charcoal grill. Lit and ready to cook in 10 minutes — the charcoal grill that finally solves the lighting problem.
American HeritageCharcoal Grill$1,499
Hasty-Bake Legacy 131
4.7/5
America's original premium charcoal grill — built in Tulsa since 1948. Adjustable charcoal pan, oven-style design, and a cult following four generations deep.
Pellet Grills
The high-margin tech — set-and-forget smoking with digital precision.
FlagshipPellet Grill$3,499
Traeger Timberline XL
4.7/5
Traeger's flagship — WiFIRE connectivity, induction cooktop, and double-walled insulation for Minnesota-proof smoking.
Most InnovativePellet Grill$999
Camp Chef Woodwind Pro 24
4.6/5
Innovative Sidekick smoke box. Sear and smoke simultaneously. The best value in the premium pellet space.
Best Budget PelletPellet Grill$599
Pit Boss Platinum Laredo 1000
4.3/5
Budget-friendly pellet option with enormous cooking area, solid temp control, and accessible pricing.
Hidden GemPellet Grill$799
Grilla Grills Silverbac Alpha
4.7/5
The under-the-radar Silverbac wood pellet grill cult forums love. Double-walled steel, Alpha Connect PID controller, and a price that embarrasses big brands.
Cult FollowingPellet Grill$899
Recteq RT-700
4.7/5
The direct-to-consumer pellet grill with a cult following. Stainless steel build, PID controller, WiFi — all under $1,000.
Competition GradePellet Grill$2,099
Yoder Smokers YS640S
4.9/5
Competition-grade pellet smoker built like a tank. 10-gauge steel, made in the USA, and the only pellet grill that earns respect from stick burner purists.
Dual-Zone PelletPellet Grill$1,199
Broil King Regal Pellet 500
4.5/5
The Canadian-engineered pellet grill with a cast iron sear plate and dual-zone cooking that bridges the gap between pellet and gas.
Comeback StoryPellet Grill$999
Weber SmokeFire EX4
4.4/5
Weber's second-gen pellet grill fixed the first gen's issues. Excellent searing capability and the Weber Connect smart grilling hub.
Budget ChampionPellet Grill$469
Z Grills 700D
4.3/5
The Amazon best-seller that punches above its weight — 694 sq in, PID controller, and a price that undercuts everyone.
Costco FavoritePellet Grill$799
Louisiana Grills Black Label 1000
4.5/5
Costco's house pellet grill brand delivers serious competition to Traeger — with a massive 1,000 sq in cooking area.
Premium PelletPellet Grill$1,799
Traeger Ironwood 885
4.7/5
Traeger's premium pellet grill with WiFIRE, Super Smoke mode, and double-wall insulation. Set it, forget it, eat incredible food.
Best Mid-Range PelletPellet Grill$799
Traeger Pro 575
4.5/5
Traeger's best-selling pellet grill for good reason — WiFIRE connectivity, 575 sq in of space, and dead-simple operation. The gateway drug to pellet grilling.
Best Pellet ValuePellet Grill$799
Pit Boss Pro Series II 850
4.4/5
Pit Boss's mid-tier pellet flagship — 850 sq in cooking area, PID controller, and Wi-Fi at half the price of comparable Traegers.
Best PID PelletPellet Grill$899
Green Mountain Grills Daniel Boone Prime Plus
4.6/5
GMG's mid-range pellet flagship — true PID controller, Wi-Fi, and a peaked lid that fits a turkey. The cult-favorite Traeger alternative.
Best Searing PelletPellet Grill$699
Recteq Bullseye RT-380X
4.4/5
Recteq's compact kettle-style pellet grill. Hits 750°F for genuine searing — the rare pellet grill that can actually grill.
Griddles
The current trend — flat-top cooking is taking backyards by storm.
Category KingFlat Top Griddle$349
Blackstone 36" 4-Burner
4.6/5
Flat-top grilling is exploding and Blackstone owns the category. Smash burgers, breakfast, stir fry — once you go griddle, you'll wonder why you waited.
Compact GriddleFlat Top Griddle$249
Blackstone 28-Inch Griddle
4.5/5
The compact Blackstone that fits smaller spaces without sacrificing flat-top performance. Perfect for patios, balconies, and camping.
Most Portable GriddlePortable Flat Top Griddle$99
Blackstone 17-Inch Tabletop Griddle
4.4/5
The most portable Blackstone — 17 inches of flat top that fits in a backpack. Perfect for camping, tailgating, and picnics.
Best Mid-SizePortable Flat Top Griddle$299
Camp Chef Flat Top Grill 475
4.6/5
The best mid-size portable griddle. Fold-up legs, 475 sq in of cooking surface, and Camp Chef's excellent heat control.
Budget PickPortable Flat Top Griddle$115
Royal Gourmet PD1301S Portable Griddle
4.2/5
A solid budget portable griddle with 3 burners and 316 sq in of cooking surface. Great value at under $120.
Smokers
The low-and-slow specialists — dedicated smokers for serious barbecue.
Competition ProvenVertical Smoker$399
Weber Smokey Mountain 18"
4.8/5
The competition-winning vertical smoker that punches way above its price. A Minnesota winter essential.
Best Entry OffsetOffset Smoker$349
Oklahoma Joe's Highland Offset
4.4/5
The entry point into real stick-burning. Heavy gauge steel, reverse flow baffle, and priced to move.
Easiest SmokerDrum Smoker$399
Pit Barrel Cooker 18.5"
4.7/5
The hook-and-hang drum smoker that makes incredible BBQ with zero skill required. Hang the meat, close the lid, walk away.
Budget OffsetOffset Smoker$249
Dyna-Glo Vertical Offset Smoker
4.2/5
The affordable entry into vertical offset smoking — big capacity, budget price, and room to learn the art of stick burning.
Competition GradeOffset Smoker$2,195
Lang 36 Patio Smoker
4.8/5
A reverse-flow offset built like a tank. Quarter-inch steel, even heat distribution, and the kind of smoke flavor that wins competitions.
Competition GradeOffset Smoker$3,895
Lone Star Grillz 24x48 Offset Smoker
4.9/5
Texas-built reverse-flow offset that competition cooks lust after. 1/4-inch steel, 8-12 month wait list, and worth every dollar.
Portable Grills
The grab-and-go rigs — for tailgates, camping, and balcony grilling.
Aussie LegendPortable Gas Grill$269
Weber Q 2200
4.5/5
The Aussie icon. Every park, beach, and campsite in Australia has one. Compact, seriously capable.
Budget KamadoPortable Kamado$299
Char-Griller Akorn Kamado
4.3/5
A steel kamado at a fraction of the ceramic price. Test-drive kamado cooking without the big commitment.
Portable SmokePortable Pellet Grill$399
Traeger Ranger Portable Pellet Grill
4.4/5
Portable pellet smoking for camping and tailgating. Real wood-fired flavor anywhere you can find an outlet.
Cult ClassicCast Iron Hibachi$99
Lodge Sportsman's Hibachi
4.5/5
A 17-lb cast iron hibachi that sears like a steakhouse and lasts forever. The ultimate apartment and camping companion.
Authentic JapaneseCeramic Hibachi$135
Kaginushi Konro Hibachi Grill
4.7/5
An authentic Japanese konro grill made from diatomite ceramic. The yakitori experience at home — intense radiant heat with minimal smoke.
Budget ClassicCast Iron Hibachi$35
Marsh Allen Cast Iron Hibachi
4.1/5
The classic American backyard hibachi — affordable, compact, and perfect for balcony grilling and small gatherings.
UltralightCampfire Grill$35
UCO Flatpack Portable Campfire Grill
4.4/5
Packs flat, sets up in seconds, and turns any campfire into a cooking station. The ultimate ultralight camping grill.
Budget PortablePortable Charcoal Grill$45
Weber Go-Anywhere Charcoal
4.3/5
The original portable grill — folds flat, weighs 15 lbs, and actually grills well enough for real cooking on the go.
Car Camping KingPortable Gas Grill$249
Coleman RoadTrip 285
4.4/5
The car-camping king. Stand-up height, swappable grill tops, and folds up like a suitcase. The grill every campground recognizes.
Ultralight GasPortable Gas Grill$55
Cuisinart Petit Gourmet Portable
4.2/5
A 13.5 lb tabletop gas grill that folds into a briefcase. Perfect for picnics, beach trips, and balcony grilling.
Camping IconPortable Camp Stove$45
Coleman Classic Propane Stove
4.5/5
The most iconic camp stove ever made. Two burners, 20,000 BTU total, and it's been feeding campers since the 1970s. Under $50.
Budget Camping GrillPortable Gas Grill$79
Coleman Sportster Propane Grill
4.2/5
A compact, no-frills tabletop grill with a lid for real grilling at the campsite. Coleman reliability at a budget price.
Electric Grills
The apartment-friendly option — plug in and grill where gas and charcoal aren't allowed.
Best Overall ElectricElectric Grill$369
Weber Q 2400 Electric
4.5/5
The best outdoor electric grill. Same Q series build quality, runs on a power cord. Perfect for apartment balconies.
Most RecognizedElectric Grill$100
George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor
4.2/5
The name everyone knows. The 15-serving model goes from patio to countertop. Dead reliable.
Best for BalconiesElectric Grill$230
Char-Broil Patio Bistro Electric
4.3/5
TRU-Infrared heating means no flare-ups and surprisingly even heat. Perfect for condo balconies.
Premium NicheBuilt-In Electric$950
Kenyon City Grill
4.6/5
Premium built-in electric for outdoor kitchens and marine use. Flameless, smokeless, approved where nothing else is.
Smoke + ElectricElectric Smoker Grill$370
Ninja Woodfire Outdoor Grill
4.4/5
Electric grill that actually produces real smoke flavor using wood pellets. A genuine game-changer for apartment grillers.
Best Apartment ElectricElectric Grill$429
Weber Lumin Compact Electric
4.5/5
Weber's modern answer to balcony electrics. Heats to 600°F, holds it, and looks better than any electric grill should.
Niche & Specialty
The low-competition plays — underserved categories with high search intent and barely any quality reviews.
Low CompetitionArgentine-Style Grill$599
Kudu Open Fire Grill
4.6/5
Santa Maria-style live fire cooking with an adjustable-height grate. Old-school and deeply satisfying.
Untapped NicheFire Pit Grill$599
Solo Stove Grill Ultimate Bundle
4.4/5
Smokeless fire pit with a grilling grate add-on. The crossover between fire pit and cooking is a wide-open niche.
Trending NicheTabletop Grill$89
Korean BBQ Tabletop Charcoal Grill
4.5/5
KBBQ at home is exploding on social media. This tabletop unit delivers authentic galbi and samgyupsal.
Best HybridDigital Charcoal Grill$497
Masterbuilt Gravity Series 560
4.5/5
Digital fan-controlled charcoal with WiFi — real charcoal flavor with pellet-grill convenience.
Zero CompetitionArgentine Wood-Fire Grill$1,899
Tagwood BBQ Argentine Parrilla
4.7/5
Authentic Argentine asado grilling with a crank-operated V-grate. The ultimate live-fire cooking experience.
Best Value HybridGravity-Fed Charcoal$499
Char-Griller Gravity Fed 980
4.6/5
Digital fan-controlled charcoal at half the Masterbuilt price. 980 sq in of cooking space with WiFi control.
Best Boat GrillMarine Gas Grill$469
Magma Marine Cabo Gas Grill
4.5/5
The definitive boat grill — 316 marine-grade stainless, rail-mountable, built to handle saltwater environments.
Japanese CraftYakitori Grill$149
Konro Yakitori Charcoal Grill
4.6/5
Authentic Japanese tabletop grilling — binchotan charcoal, ceramic insulation, and skewer cooking that turns dinner into an experience.
Cultural NicheTandoor Oven$399
Tandoor Home Clay Oven
4.5/5
Authentic Indian cooking at home — 700°F+ radiant heat for naan, chicken tikka, and seekh kebab that no grill can replicate.
Best Sear AnywhereOverhead Infrared Grill$799
Otto Wilde OFB Steakmaker
4.7/5
1500°F overhead infrared. Sears a steak in 90 seconds with a steakhouse-quality crust no conventional grill can match.
Holiday HeroOil-less Turkey Fryer$129
Char-Broil Big Easy TRU-Infrared
4.4/5
Cooks a 16-lb turkey in 2.5 hours with no oil. The safest deep-fried turkey alternative, and the meat is genuinely better.
Gear That Matters
Essential Grill Accessories Reviewed
The right accessories separate weekend warriors from backyard legends. These are the tools I actually use every single cook.
Must-HaveAccessory$105
ThermoWorks Thermapen ONE
4.9/5
The gold standard in instant-read thermometers. One-second readings, IP67 waterproof, and accurate to ±0.5°F.
EssentialAccessory$70
Weber Premium Grill Cover
4.5/5
Minnesota winters will destroy an uncovered grill in one season. This cover handles -30°F without cracking.
Game ChangerAccessory$130
GrillGrate Sear Station Set
4.7/5
Hard-anodized aluminum grates that amplify heat and eliminate flare-ups. Restaurant-quality sear marks.
Best ValueAccessory$18
Weber Rapidfire Chimney Starter
4.8/5
Gets coals ripping hot in 15 minutes with just newspaper. Non-negotiable for any charcoal setup.
Everyday WorkhorseAccessory$40
OXO Good Grips 3-Piece Set
4.6/5
Tongs, spatula, and fork with soft-grip handles. Long enough to keep your knuckle hair intact.
Fun FactorAccessory$200
KettlePizza Deluxe Kit
4.4/5
Turns your Weber Kettle into a pizza oven hitting 700°F+. Neapolitan-style pies in your backyard.
Wireless PioneerAccessory$100
MEATER Plus Wireless Probe
4.5/5
Truly wireless — no wires at all. Connects to your phone via Bluetooth and estimates cook time with AI.
Niche WinnerAccessory$20
A-MAZE-N Pellet Tube Smoker
4.6/5
Turns any gas grill into a cold smoker. Fill with pellets, light one end, get 4+ hours of clean smoke.
Safety FirstAccessory$16
Artisan Griller Heat-Resistant Gloves
4.4/5
Rated to 932°F and flexible enough to actually grip things. Essential for kamado and offset work.
Cult FavoriteAccessory$110
Slow 'N Sear Deluxe
4.8/5
The single best upgrade for a Weber Kettle. Perfect two-zone setup for smoking and a searing zone that rivals broilers.
Safety PickAccessory$16
Grillart Bristle-Free Grill Brush
4.6/5
No loose bristles, no hospital visits. This coil-spring brush cleans grates safely and effectively.
Flavor ExplorerAccessory$30
Western Premium Smoking Chunks Variety
4.5/5
Hickory, cherry, apple, and mesquite in one box. The starter pack for discovering which wood suits your style.
Griddle EssentialAccessory$25
Lodge Cast Iron Smash Burger Press
4.7/5
7.5 lbs of cast iron that turns any griddle into a smash burger machine. The essential Blackstone companion.
Upgrade PickAccessory$90
OneGrill Universal Rotisserie Kit
4.5/5
Turns any gas or charcoal grill into a rotisserie. The motor is silent, the spit holds 40 lbs, and the chicken is life-changing.
Competition SecretAccessory$35
SpitJack Magnum Meat Injector
4.6/5
Professional-grade injector that handles thin marinades and thick butter-based injections. The secret weapon for competition brisket.
Space SaverAccessory$20
Weber Rib Rack
4.4/5
Holds 4-5 racks of ribs vertically — doubles your smoker capacity for rib day.
Pro ChoiceAccessory$229
ThermoWorks Signals 4-Channel
4.8/5
Four probes, WiFi + Bluetooth, and ThermoWorks' legendary accuracy. The ultimate multi-channel thermometer for serious smokers.
Budget SmartAccessory$70
Inkbird IBBQ-4T WiFi Thermometer
4.3/5
Four probes and WiFi connectivity at half the price of ThermoWorks. The best budget multi-channel thermometer.
Automation KingAccessory$279
FireBoard 2 Drive
4.7/5
Smart thermometer with fan controller — automatically maintains your smoker temperature. The set-it-and-forget-it dream.
Deep Clean KingAccessory$8
Easy-Off Professional Grill Cleaner
4.5/5
The nuclear option for filthy grates. Spray on, wait 10 minutes, wipe off months of baked-on grease. Nothing else comes close.
All-NaturalAccessory$22
The Great Scrape Woody Paddle
4.4/5
A natural wood scraper that custom-grooves to your grate pattern. Zero bristle risk, zero chemicals. The safest grill cleaner.
Know Your Grills
Grill Types Explained
Gas Grills
Quick ignition, precise temp control. Perfect for weeknight dinners and blokes who want convenience without sacrificing flavor.
- Fast heat-up
- Easy cleanup
- Temp control
Charcoal Grills
The purist's choice. Unbeatable smoky flavor and that primal satisfaction of cooking over real coals.
- Best flavor
- Affordable
- Portable options
Kamado Grills
Ceramic powerhouses that hold heat for hours. Grill, smoke, bake, roast — these do it all brilliantly.
- Fuel efficient
- Incredible heat retention
- Multi-use
Pellet Grills
The set-and-forget option. Wood pellet fuel gives you real smoke flavor with digital temperature control.
- Consistent temp
- WiFi control
- Versatile
Flat Top Griddles
The hottest trend in outdoor cooking. Massive flat surface for smash burgers, breakfast, stir fry, and everything in between.
- Huge cook surface
- Versatile
- Easy to use
Not Sure Which Grill Is Right for You?
Take our 2-minute quiz and we'll match you with the perfect grill type for your cooking style, budget, and lifestyle.
Take the Quiz →Deep Dives
Buying Guides
In-depth guides to help you make the right decision — no fluff, no filler, just real advice from years of testing.
Beginner12 min read
How to Choose Your First Grill
The no-BS beginner's guide to picking the right grill for your budget, space, and cooking style.
Read Guide →
Comparison15 min read
Gas vs Charcoal vs Pellet: The Definitive Comparison
The debate that divides every backyard. Here's the honest breakdown after years of cooking on all three.
Read Guide →
Best Of10 min read
Best Grills Under $500 in 2025
You don't need to mortgage the house. These affordable grills deliver serious performance for real-world budgets.
Read Guide →
Advanced18 min read
The Complete Guide to Smoking Meat
From first brisket to competition-level barbecue. Everything I've learned from 200+ low-and-slow cooks in Minnesota.
Read Guide →
Maintenance8 min read
Grill Maintenance & Care: Make It Last 15 Years
The cleaning and maintenance routine that protects your investment and keeps your food tasting great.
Read Guide →
Space-Constrained10 min read
Best Grills for Apartments and Small Spaces
Live in a condo, apartment, or townhouse? These grills fit your lifestyle — and your landlord's rules.
Read Guide →Budget11 min read
Best Smokers Under $300
You don't need to spend a fortune to make great barbecue. These budget smokers prove it.
Read Guide →Beginner13 min read
Best Grills for Beginners
Starting from zero? These forgiving, easy-to-use grills will build your confidence fast.
Read Guide →Budget14 min read
Best Pellet Grills Under $1,000
The sweet spot for pellet grills — serious performance without flagship pricing.
Read Guide →
Technique9 min read
Guide to Grilling in Cold Weather
Snow on the ground? Good. Some of the best grilling happens when the thermometer drops.
Read Guide →Cold Weather13 min read
Best Cold-Weather Pellet Grills
Pellet grills that actually hold 225°F when it's -10°F outside — tested through Minnesota winters.
Read Guide →New Feature
Find America's Best Meat Markets
Great grilling starts with great meat. Explore our interactive map of the top butcher shops and meat markets across the country's biggest cities.
Explore the MapHead to Head
Grill Comparisons
Narrowed it down to two? These are the matchups every serious buyer is searching for.
GasWeber
Weber Spirit vs. Genesis
The ultimate "should I spend the extra money" question. We break down exactly what that upgrade gets you — and whether it's worth it for your cooking style.
Read Comparison →KamadoCharcoal
Big Green Egg vs. Kamado Joe
A fierce rivalry. Build quality, warranty, hinge mechanisms, accessories — we go deep on every difference that actually matters.
Read Comparison →Pellet3-Way
Traeger vs. Camp Chef vs. Pit Boss
The pellet grill holy trinity. Three brands, three price points, one clear winner for each type of buyer.
Read Comparison →GriddleGas
Blackstone Griddle vs. Traditional Gas Grill
Perfect for beginners trying to decide on their primary outdoor cooker. Two completely different cooking experiences compared side by side.
Read Comparison →FuelGuide
Propane vs. Natural Gas Grills
The complete propane vs natural gas grills guide: cost per BTU, installation, performance, safety, conversion kits, and which fuel actually wins for your patio.
Read Comparison →CharcoalHead-to-Head
Weber Kettle vs. PK Grill
Two legendary charcoal grills with cult followings. Cast aluminum vs porcelain steel, capsule vs round — which design actually cooks better?
Read Comparison →GriddleSizing
Blackstone 28" vs. 36"
Size matters with griddles. We compare cooking space, BTU output, portability, and value to help you pick the right Blackstone.
Read Comparison →KamadoBudget
Kamado Joe vs. Pit Boss Kamado
Premium ceramic vs budget ceramic. Is the Pit Boss kamado a genuine alternative or a false economy? We found out.
Read Comparison →SmokerPellet
Offset Smoker vs. Pellet Grill
The great BBQ debate. Stick-burning purists vs set-and-forget tech. Flavor, learning curve, cost, and results — the honest comparison.
Read Comparison →GasPremium
Weber Genesis vs. Napoleon Prestige
The two best gas grills in the $1,000-1,500 range go head to head. Build quality, features, warranty, and cooking performance compared.
Read Comparison →All TypesBeginner
Charcoal vs. Gas vs. Pellet vs. Electric
The ultimate beginner's guide. Every fuel type compared across flavor, cost, convenience, and versatility. Start here if you're buying your first grill.
Read Comparison →PelletPremium
Traeger Ironwood vs. Weber SmokeFire
Two premium pellet grills from the biggest names in outdoor cooking. WiFi, build quality, searing, and smoke flavor compared.
Read Comparison →GasSmart
Napoleon Phantom vs. Weber Genesis SPX
The new generation of smart gas grills. App connectivity, precision burners, and premium features — which smart grill is actually worth it?
Read Comparison →PelletMid-Range
recteq 700 vs. Camp Chef Woodwind
Two mid-range pellet grills with fanatical fanbases. Build quality, PID controllers, and real-world cooking performance compared.
Read Comparison →CharcoalBudget
Weber Kettle vs. Kamado Joe Jr.
The best budget charcoal grill vs the most affordable ceramic kamado. Size, versatility, heat retention, and value for first-time charcoal buyers.
Read Comparison →CharcoalNew vs Classic
Solo Stove Grill vs. Weber Kettle
The trendy newcomer challenges the undisputed champion. Smokeless airflow technology vs 70 years of proven design. Which charcoal grill deserves your backyard?
Read Comparison →Pizza OvensOoniGozney
Ooni Karu 16 vs. Gozney Roccbox
The two best outdoor pizza ovens go head-to-head. Bigger and multi-fuel vs. professional-grade stone — which makes better pizza?
Read Comparison →Pizza OvensOoniBudget vs. Premium
Ooni Fyra 12 vs. Ooni Karu 16
Budget Ooni vs. premium Ooni — is the $450 upgrade from wood pellets to multi-fuel worth it?
Read Comparison →Pizza OvensIndoor vs. OutdoorBrevilleOoni
Breville Pizzaiolo vs. Ooni Karu 16
Indoor electric vs. outdoor multi-fuel — two completely different approaches to the same goal: perfect pizza at home.
Read Comparison →CharcoalWeber
Weber Kettle vs. Weber Smokey Mountain
Both are Weber legends. One is a versatile grill that can smoke; the other is a dedicated smoker that can't grill. Here's which one belongs in your backyard.
Read Comparison →PelletGas
Pellet Grill vs. Gas Grill
The two most popular grill categories couldn't be more different. We break down cost, flavor, convenience, and which one actually fits your cooking style.
Read Comparison →SmokerCharcoal
Weber Smokey Mountain vs. Pit Barrel Cooker
The two most-loved budget smokers under $500. One is a bullet-style charcoal classic. The other hangs meat from hooks. Here's which one earns its place in your backyard.
Read Comparison →Griddle
Blackstone vs. Camp Chef Flat Top
Blackstone owns the griddle category — but Camp Chef's Flat Top Grill is the under-the-radar challenger with a removable griddle and grill grates in one. Here's the real-world breakdown.
Read Comparison →GasPellet
Weber Genesis vs. Traeger Pro 575
Gas convenience versus pellet smoke flavor at almost identical price points. The most-asked "first serious grill" question we get — answered with side-by-side cook data.
Read Comparison →Pizza Ovens
Ooni Koda 16 vs. Karu 16
Same brand, same 16-inch pizza capacity, $200 price difference. Gas-only convenience versus multi-fuel flexibility — which Ooni earns its spot on your patio?
Read Comparison →Gas
Weber Q vs. Coleman RoadTrip
The two best-selling portable grills under $300, side by side. Tabletop simplicity versus folding-cart convenience — and which one survives a season of camping.
Read Comparison →GasWeber
Weber Summit S-470 vs. Genesis E-325s
Weber's premium gas grill takes on the upper-mid Genesis. We unpack whether the Summit's smoker box, sear burner, and rotisserie justify nearly double the price.
Read Comparison →PelletCharcoal
Recteq Bullseye vs. Weber Original Kettle
The pellet upstart vs. the charcoal icon. Both cook a great steak — we compare hands-off convenience against pure live-fire flavor.
Read Comparison →PelletSmart Grill
GMG Daniel Boone Prime Plus vs. Traeger Pro 575
Two mid-tier WiFi pellet grills, two different philosophies. We compare app, build, and cooking range head-to-head.
Read Comparison →InfraredSpecialty
Otto Wilde Steakmaker vs. Char-Broil Big Easy
Two infrared cookers with completely different missions. We compare the 1500°F top-down steak machine to the affordable infrared turkey roaster.
Read Comparison →GasPremium
Weber Summit S-470 vs. Napoleon Prestige 500
Two premium gas grills around $1,600. Weber's heritage build vs. Napoleon's feature stack — which deserves your money?
Read Comparison →SmokerPremium
Lone Star Grillz 24x48 vs. Traeger Timberline XL
The hand-built Texas offset smoker vs. Traeger's flagship pellet. Same money, totally different cooking experience.
Read Comparison →CharcoalPremium
Everdure HUB II vs. Weber Original Kettle
Premium Australian charcoal grill with electric ignition vs. the $219 American icon. Is the HUB II's tech worth six times the price?
Read Comparison →GasPremium
BeefEater Signature 3000E vs. Weber Genesis E-325s
The Aussie premium gas grill takes on America's mid-premium standard. We compare burner power, build, and warranty.
Read Comparison →ElectricApartment
Weber Lumin vs. Char-Broil TRU-Infrared Electric
The two leading apartment-friendly electric grills. We compare cooking power, smoke flavor, and balcony-friendliness.
Read Comparison →Built-InPremium
Bull Steer Premium vs. Coyote C-Series
Two American-made built-in gas grills around $2,500. We compare burners, warranty, and integration into outdoor kitchens.
Read Comparison →CharcoalPremium
Hasty-Bake Legacy 131 vs. Big Green Egg Large
America's oldest charcoal grill brand vs. the kamado king. Two completely different approaches to charcoal cooking.
Read Comparison →CharcoalPellet
Masterbuilt Gravity 560 vs. Pit Boss Platinum Laredo 1000
Charcoal-fueled smart grill vs. WiFi-enabled premium pellet. Two paths to convenient outdoor cooking under $1,000.
Read Comparison →PelletPremium
Yoder YS640s vs. Recteq RT-700
American-made heavyweight pellet grills going head to head. Steel thickness, temp consistency, and which one earns the lifetime spot on your patio.
Read Comparison →PelletWeberTraeger
Weber Searwood vs. Traeger Pro 780
Weber's pellet redemption tour vs. Traeger's mid-tier workhorse. Two very different philosophies for under $1,000.
Read Comparison →KamadoCharcoalPremium
Kamado Joe Big Joe III vs. Big Green Egg XL
Going up a size? The XL kamado question, settled. Here's what the extra capacity actually buys you — and which brand does it better.
Read Comparison →GriddleWeber
Weber Slate vs. Blackstone 36
Weber finally entered the griddle wars. Does the new kid actually beat the king of the flat top — or is it style over substance?
Read Comparison →PizzaPremium
Gozney Dome vs. Ooni Karu 16
Backyard pizza royalty. The Gozney Dome's brick-oven thermal mass vs the Karu 16's portability and value. Which one earns the patio real estate?
Read Comparison →CharcoalBudget
Char-Griller Akorn vs. Weber Kettle
Two of the best charcoal grills you can buy under $400 — but they're built on completely different theories. Steel kamado vs. classic kettle.
Read Comparison →GasWeber
Napoleon Rogue XT 525 vs. Weber Spirit E-310
Mid-tier gas grill showdown. Napoleon's wave-shaped grates and infrared sear vs. Weber's bulletproof reliability.
Read Comparison →PelletPremium
Pit Boss Pro Series 1150 vs. Traeger Ironwood XL
Big pellet grills, big price gap. We break down whether the Traeger's $1,400 premium actually buys $1,400 of grill.
Read Comparison →Pizza
Halo Versa 16 vs. Solo Stove Pi
Two compact pizza ovens with very different tricks. Halo's spinning stone vs Solo Stove's signature airflow design.
Read Comparison →Portable3-WayGas
Weber Q 1200 vs. Coleman RoadTrip 285 vs. Cuisinart Petit Gourmet
The portable gas grill three-way. Tailgating, camping, RV decks — which compact grill earns the trip?
Read Comparison →GasBudget
Char-Broil Performance vs. Weber Spirit
Half the price for the same number of burners. Is the Char-Broil actually a steal — or is the Spirit's premium worth every dollar?
Read Comparison →CharcoalKamadoPremium
Weber Summit Charcoal vs. Kamado Joe Classic III
Weber's premium charcoal play vs. the kamado world's most refined cooker. Two paths to great charcoal flavor at premium prices.
Read Comparison →GasWeberPremium
Weber Genesis SPX vs. Summit S-470
Weber's flagship gas grill matchup. The new-gen Genesis SPX vs. the long-running Summit. Which premium Weber wins your patio?
Read Comparison →PelletPremium
Traeger Timberline vs. Yoder YS640s
Premium pellet showdown. Traeger's flagship Wi-Fi experience vs. Yoder's American-made tank. Which one earns the $2,000+ spend?
Read Comparison →PizzaElectric
Ooni Volt 12 vs. Breville Pizzaiolo
Indoor electric pizza ovens that actually nail Neapolitan crust. Two of the only countertop options that hit 850°F+.
Read Comparison →GriddleOutdoor
Blackstone Air Fryer Combo vs. Pit Boss Ultimate Plancha
Griddle plus air fryer in one rig. Two competing combos that promise to replace half your kitchen.
Read Comparison →SmokerCharcoal
Pit Barrel Cooker vs. Weber Smokey Mountain 22
Two of the most beloved budget smokers in barbecue. Vertical hanging vs. classic bullet design — which one cooks better?
Read Comparison →PelletPremium
Camp Chef Woodwind Pro vs. Traeger Ironwood
Premium pellet grills with sidekick ambitions. The Woodwind Pro's smoke box vs. the Ironwood's app-driven ecosystem.
Read Comparison →PremiumSpecialty
Everdure 4K vs. Otto Wilde Steakmaker
Two designer outdoor cookers that nail steak. Everdure's smart electric-ignition charcoal vs. Otto's overhead infrared monster.
Read Comparison →PortableWeber
Weber Traveler vs. Weber Q 2200
Weber's two answers to portable grilling. Folding cart vs. compact tabletop — which one belongs in your trunk?
Read Comparison →KamadoCharcoalPremium
Primo Oval XL vs. Kamado Joe Classic III
American-made oval kamado vs. the Korean-engineered round king. Two paths to ceramic grilling excellence.
Read Comparison →PelletWeberTraeger
Weber SmokeFire EX6 vs. Traeger Pro 780
Weber's controversial pellet grill vs. Traeger's bread-and-butter. Has Weber finally fixed the SmokeFire — and is it worth picking over the safe choice?
Read Comparison →Griddle
Blackstone On The Go vs. Camp Chef Flat Top 475
Two compact griddles aimed at smaller spaces. Tabletop vs. mid-size cart — which one fits your patio life?
Read Comparison →PelletPremium
Green Mountain Jim Bowie vs. Recteq RT-700
Two of the most loyal-customer pellet brands in barbecue. GMG's app-driven Bowie vs. Recteq's stainless-steel Bull.
Read Comparison →GasPremium
Weber Genesis E-435 vs. Broil King Regal S490
Mid-premium 4-burner gas grills going head to head. Weber's refinement vs. Broil King's stainless and dual-tube burners.
Read Comparison →OffsetSmokerPremium
Lone Star Grillz 20x36 vs. Yoder Cheyenne
Hand-built American offset smokers. Texas's Lone Star vs. Kansas's Yoder Cheyenne — which one earns the lifetime spot?
Read Comparison →PortableBudget
Char-Broil Grill2Go vs. Weber Go-Anywhere
The cheapest portable grills worth owning. Infrared compactness vs. Weber's classic kettle-style grab-and-go.
Read Comparison →KamadoPortable
Char-Griller Akorn Jr vs. Big Green Egg MiniMax
Compact kamados for tailgating and small patios. Steel-bodied budget vs. ceramic premium — which one earns the trip?
Read Comparison →KamadoCharcoalPremium
Weber Summit Kamado E6 vs. Kamado Joe Classic III
Weber's first real kamado vs. the modern kamado standard. Has Weber finally cracked the ceramic code?
Read Comparison →PizzaGas
Ooni Koda 12 vs. Koda 16
Ooni's two flagship gas pizza ovens. Same brand, different sizes. Which Koda fits your patio and pizza ambition?
Read Comparison →CharcoalWeber
Weber Original Kettle vs. Master-Touch
The Weber Kettle question, settled. Original vs. Master-Touch — what does the upgrade actually buy you?
Read Comparison →GriddlePortable
Blackstone Adventure Ready 22 vs. Pit Boss 2-Burner Griddle
Compact 2-burner griddles for small patios and tailgates. The category leader vs. its closest challenger.
Read Comparison →GasInfrared
Char-Broil Performance Amplifire vs. Weber Spirit
Char-Broil's premium TRU-Infrared 3-burner vs. Weber's classic Spirit. The infrared question, answered.
Read Comparison →AccessoryPremium
ThermoWorks Signals vs. Fireboard 2 Drive
The two best WiFi BBQ thermometers on the market. ThermoWorks accuracy vs. Fireboard's fan-control ecosystem.
Read Comparison →GasPremium
Weber Genesis S-435 vs. Bull Angus
Premium 4-burner gas grills under $2,000. Weber's refined Genesis vs. Bull's stainless built-in-quality cart grill.
Read Comparison →PortableWeberBudget
Weber Smokey Joe vs. Weber Q 1000
Weber's two cheapest portable grills go head to head. Charcoal classic vs. mini gas — same brand, opposite experiences.
Read Comparison →GasPremium
Weber Summit E-670 vs. Napoleon Prestige 500
Two flagship gas grills going head-to-head. Weber's six-burner Summit vs. Napoleon's stainless Prestige 500.
Read Comparison →PelletPortable
Traeger Tailgater vs. Pit Boss Navigator 550
Two portable pellet grills under $500. Traeger's compact Tailgater vs. Pit Boss's bigger Navigator 550.
Read Comparison →CharcoalPortable
Kamado Joe Jr vs. Weber Smokey Joe
Two of the best small portable charcoal grills. Ceramic kamado vs. classic kettle.
Read Comparison →SmokerCharcoal
Masterbuilt Gravity 1050 vs. Pit Boss Pro Series 1100
Two big charcoal-fed smokers under $1,000. Masterbuilt's gravity-fed innovation vs. Pit Boss's traditional pellet pro.
Read Comparison →GasPremium
Weber Genesis SPX-435 vs. Napoleon Prestige Pro 500
Premium 4-burner smart gas grills with infrared. Weber's flagship Genesis vs. Napoleon's top Prestige Pro.
Read Comparison →PizzaPortable
Ooni Karu 12G vs. Gozney Roccbox
Two of the best portable pizza ovens. Ooni's multi-fuel Karu 12G vs. Gozney's premium Roccbox.
Read Comparison →GasMid-Range
Weber Spirit II E-310 vs. Spirit E-315
Two of Weber's bestselling 3-burner gas grills. Old Spirit II vs. new Spirit. Which is the better buy?
Read Comparison →GriddlePremium
Blackstone 36 vs. Camp Chef Flat Top Grill 900
Two of the best 36-inch outdoor griddles. Blackstone's category-defining 36 vs. Camp Chef's premium FTG 900.
Read Comparison →PelletPortable
Recteq Bullseye vs. Traeger Ranger
Two compact pellet cookers with very different missions. Recteq's high-heat Bullseye vs. Traeger's portable Ranger.
Read Comparison →CharcoalPortable
Weber Jumbo Joe vs. Original Kettle 22
Two iconic Weber charcoal kettles. Bigger Jumbo Joe vs. classic Original 22-inch.
Read Comparison →PelletPremium
Yoder YS480s vs. Recteq RT-590
Two premium pellet grills under $1,800. Yoder's hand-built American steel vs. Recteq's smart pellet leader.
Read Comparison →PelletCold Weather
Traeger Timberline XL vs. Grilla Silverbac Alpha
The $3,499 flagship vs. the $799 cult-favorite. Both are double-walled, both hold 225°F in a Minnesota February — but only one of them costs less than a used car. Honest head-to-head from a cold-climate cook.
Read Comparison →Curated Lists
Best Of Lists
Best Grills Overall
Our top picks across every category, tested over 12 months in real-world conditions.
12 grills reviewed →Best Grills Under $500
You don't need to break the bank. These affordable grills punch well above their weight.
8 grills reviewed →Best Camping Grills
From tailgating to backcountry camping, these portable grills deliver serious performance anywhere.
8 grills reviewed →Best Portable Grills
The top portable grills for tailgating, beach trips, car camping, and travel — tested on the road.
10+ grills reviewed →Best Electric Grills
For apartments, condos, and balconies where gas and charcoal aren't allowed. These actually cook well.
4 grills reviewed →Best Pizza Ovens
From wood-fired Ooni to indoor electric Breville — the best pizza ovens for every budget and space.
5 ovens reviewed →Best Grills on Amazon
The top-rated grills you can buy on Amazon right now — tested, ranked, and ready to ship with Prime.
16 grills reviewed →Best Smart Thermometers
From instant-read to WiFi multi-channel to automated fan controllers — the best thermometers for every cook.
5 thermometers reviewed →Best Grills for Apartments
Electric, compact, and balcony-friendly grills for apartment and condo living where space and rules are tight.
10 grills reviewed →Best Grills for Cold Weather
Tested in -30°F Minnesota winters. These grills laugh at the cold.
6 grills reviewed →Easiest Grills to Clean
Hate grill cleanup? These grills have the best grease management, removable parts, and fast post-cook routines.
10 grills reviewed →Best Grills for Beginners
Just getting started? These forgiving grills make everyone look like a pitmaster.
7 grills reviewed →Best Portable Flat Top Grills
Portable griddles for camping, tailgating, and small patios. Smash burgers anywhere.
5 griddles reviewed →
Est. 2024 🇦🇺 → 🇺🇸
About The Wizard
G'day, I'm the Grill Wizard
I'm a 38-year-old Aussie who swapped the barbie in my Sydney backyard for a snow-covered deck in Minnesota. Turns out, Americans take their grilling just as seriously as we take our barbecues — maybe even more.
After buying (and returning) way too many grills, I started GrillWizardOz to give honest, no-nonsense reviews. I test every grill myself — in summer heat, autumn rain, and the kind of cold that makes your tongs stick to your hands.
Whether you're a seasoned pitmaster or just figuring out the difference between charcoal and pellet, I've got you covered. No sponsored rubbish, no affiliate trickery — just straight-up advice from a bloke who loves a good cook-up.