Introduction
If you’re here for a quick comparison of the best gas grills, here’s what you need to know:
- Best Overall Gas Grill: Saber Select Stainless 3-Burner Liquid Propane Gas Grill
- Editor’s Pick Gas Grill: Weber Genesis E-325
- Best Budget Gas Grill: Char-Broil Performance 2-Burner
- Best High-End Gas Grill: Weber Genesis EPX-335
- Best Portable Gas Grill: Tailgate-Ready Model with Three Adjustable Burners
Gas grills have revolutionized backyard barbecuing. They’re easy to use with just a flick of a switch, heat up quickly, and usually require minimal cleanup.
Using a gas grill means no more dealing with the mess of charcoal or the lengthy process of getting the perfect fire. With just a turn of the knob, you’re ready to cook anything from burgers to steak to veggies. Gas grill comparison guides can help you find the right grill tailored to your specific needs and preferences.
We tested several models, rating them on heat control, performance, design, and ease of cleaning, among other factors. Whether you’re a seasoned griller or an amateur looking for the right tool, our guide cuts through the overwhelming options to find the best grills for various needs.
Best Overall Gas Grills
Choosing the best gas grill can be overwhelming. We’ve tested numerous models and narrowed it down to five standouts. These grills excel in heat control, performance, design, and ease of cleaning.
Weber Spirit II E-310
The Weber Spirit II E-310 is our top pick. Priced around $500, it offers a great balance of features and affordability. With three burners, even heat distribution, and spacious side tables, it’s perfect for both beginners and seasoned grillers.
- Price: ~$500
- Burners: 3
- Total BTUs: 30,000
- Cooking Area: 529 sq. in.
- Special Features: Easy ignition, large wheels, tool hooks
Why we love it:
Weber is known for exceptional customer service and durable products. The Spirit II E-310 is no exception, providing a reliable and user-friendly grilling experience.
Weber Genesis E-325s
The Weber Genesis E-325s is a step up, offering more cooking space and enhanced features. It includes a “Sear Zone” for perfect steaks and a digital screen to monitor temperatures.
- Price: ~$900
- Burners: 3
- Total BTUs: 39,000
- Cooking Area: 787 sq. in.
- Special Features: Sear Zone, digital screen, optional app connectivity
Why we love it:
This grill is spacious but not gigantic, making it ideal for serious grillers who want to cook for a crowd without sacrificing quality.
Monument Denali 605
For those needing more space, the Monument Denali 605 is a fantastic six-burner option. It combines modern technology with a reasonable price.
- Price: ~$600
- Burners: 6
- Total BTUs: 72,000
- Cooking Area: 900 sq. in.
- Special Features: Temperature probes, app connectivity, side burner
Why we love it:
The Denali 605 offers ample cooking space and smart features, making it easy to cook for a large party. However, be prepared for a tedious assembly process.
Char-Broil Commercial 3-Burner
The Char-Broil Commercial 3-Burner is a midrange model that doesn’t compromise on quality. It uses Tru-Infrared technology to evenly distribute heat and reduce flare-ups.
- Price: ~$550
- Burners: 3
- Total BTUs: 25,500
- Cooking Area: 420 sq. in.
- Special Features: Side burner, Tru-Infrared technology, dual-fuel capability
Why we love it:
This grill offers excellent value with its even heat distribution and reduced flare-ups. It’s a reliable choice for those looking for quality at a lower price.
Broilmaster BSG424N
For those with an outdoor kitchen, the Broilmaster BSG424N is a top-of-the-line built-in gas grill. It’s designed to last decades and offers professional-grade features.
- Price: ~$3,000
- Burners: 4
- Total BTUs: 72,000
- Cooking Area: 918 sq. in.
- Special Features: Rotisserie, smoking tray, interior hood lights
Why we love it:
This grill is built to last and perfect for serious grillers. It offers a large cooking area and advanced features like an infrared burner for perfect searing.
In the next section, we’ll explore the best budget gas grills for those looking to save money without sacrificing too much quality.
Best Budget Gas Grills
If you’re looking to save money but still want a reliable and efficient grill, you’re in luck. Here are some great budget-friendly gas grills that deliver solid performance without breaking the bank:
Char-Broil Performance 2-Burner
The Char-Broil Performance 2-Burner is a compact grill that doesn’t skimp on features. It’s perfect for small spaces and small families.
- Price: ~$200
- Burners: 2
- Total BTUs: 24,000
- Cooking Area: 300 sq. in.
Why we love it:
This grill heats up quickly and evenly, making it easy to cook your food just right. It also has a built-in thermometer, which is rare for grills in this price range. The only downside is that it can be a bit tricky to clean.
Char-Griller E3072
The Char-Griller E3072 offers more cooking space and power, making it a great option for larger families or those who like to entertain.
- Price: ~$300
- Burners: 3
- Total BTUs: 40,800
- Cooking Area: 438 sq. in.
Why we love it:
This grill has a side burner, which is perfect for cooking side dishes while you grill your main course. The cast-iron grates provide excellent heat retention, giving you those perfect grill marks. However, it does require more frequent cleaning due to its larger size and higher power.
Monument Grills Tabletop Propane Gas Grill
For those who need a portable option, the Monument Grills Tabletop Propane Gas Grill is a fantastic choice. It’s small enough to take camping but big enough to handle a family meal.
- Price: ~$149
- Burners: 2
- Total BTUs: 15,000
- Cooking Area: 207 sq. in.
Why we love it:
This grill is lightweight and easy to carry, making it perfect for camping trips or small patios. Despite its size, it can cook a surprising amount of food. The only drawback is the drip tray, which can be a bit of a hassle to clean.
These budget-friendly options show that you don’t have to spend a lot to get a good grill. Each has its strengths and weaknesses, but all offer great value for the price.
Best High-End Gas Grills
When it comes to high-end gas grills, you get what you pay for: superior build quality, advanced features, and exceptional performance. Here, we’ll look at three top-tier models that stand out in the market: the Weber Genesis EPX-335, the Broilmaster BSG424N, and the Kalamazoo Hybrid Fire Grill.
Weber Genesis EPX-335
The Weber Genesis EPX-335 is a grill lover’s dream. This propane grill offers a large 787 square inches of cooking space and was redesigned in 2022. It features three main burners rated at 39,000 BTU, a 13,000 BTU sear burner, and a 12,000 BTU side burner.
Key Features:
– Cooking Space: 787 sq. in.
– Burners: 3 main burners, 1 sear burner, 1 side burner
– BTUs: 39,000 (main), 13,000 (sear), 12,000 (side)
– Smart Features: Weber Connect app for real-time monitoring
– Lighting: Built-in LED lights for nighttime grilling
During testing, the Genesis EPX-335 excelled at searing burgers and cooking whole chickens to perfection. However, it struggled a bit with low-and-slow cooking, showing a temperature discrepancy between its LED screen and actual grill level.
Broilmaster BSG424N
For those who demand durability and performance, the Broilmaster BSG424N is a fantastic choice. Known for its longevity, this grill can last a decade or more, thanks to its robust construction.
Key Features:
– Cooking Space: 918 sq. in.
– Burners: 4 main burners, rotisserie infrared burner
– BTUs: 72,000 total
– Material: Stainless steel
– Additional Features: Rotisserie, smoking tray, built-in grill lights
Kalamazoo Hybrid Fire Grill
If you want the pinnacle of grilling technology, look no further than the Kalamazoo Hybrid Fire Grill. This grill offers the versatility of using gas, charcoal, or wood, making it a unique choice for serious grill enthusiasts.
Key Features:
– Cooking Space: Varies by model
– Burners: Multiple options for gas, charcoal, and wood
– BTUs: High BTU output, varies by configuration
– Material: Heavy-duty stainless steel
– Additional Features: Hybrid fuel options, precision control
These high-end grills offer a range of advanced features and superior performance, making them worth the investment for serious grillers.
Gas Grill Comparison: Key Features
Choosing the right gas grill can be overwhelming. To make it easier, let’s break down the key features you should focus on. Understanding these features will help you find the best grill for your needs.
Burners
Burners are the heart of your grill. The number of burners affects how much food you can cook at once and how well you can control the heat.
- Two burners: Ideal for small families or occasional grillers. You can create two heat zones, which is good for simple meals.
- Three burners: Offers more versatility. You can create multiple heat zones, making it easier to cook different foods at the same time.
- Four or more burners: Best for large gatherings or serious grillers. Allows for multiple heat zones and more cooking space.
“For the most versatility, opt for a three-burner gas grill,” recommends the experts at Grill Wizard Oz.
BTUs
BTUs (British Thermal Units) measure the heat output of the grill. More BTUs mean more heat, but it’s not the only factor to consider. Efficiency and heat distribution are just as important.
- 20,000 – 30,000 BTUs: Suitable for small to medium grills.
- 30,000 – 50,000 BTUs: Ideal for larger grills with more burners.
- 50,000+ BTUs: Best for very large grills or those with special features like sear burners.
The Weber Spirit II E-310, for example, has 30,000 BTUs and provides even heat distribution, making it a favorite among users.
Cooking Area
The cooking area determines how much food you can grill at once. It’s usually measured in square inches.
- Up to 300 sq. in.: Good for small families or couples.
- 300 – 500 sq. in.: Suitable for medium-sized families.
- 500+ sq. in.: Best for large families or frequent entertainers.
The Weber Genesis E-325s offers a generous 529 square inches of cooking space, making it perfect for larger gatherings.
Side Burners
Side burners are extra burners located on the side tables of the grill. They are useful for cooking side dishes or sauces while grilling.
- Optional: Not everyone needs a side burner. They are often considered a luxury feature.
- Integrated: Some high-end models come with integrated side burners, like the Char-Broil Commercial 3-Burner.
“There are very few instances when we’ve actually used a gas grill’s side burner,” notes the Grill Wizard Oz team.
Smart Features
Smart features are becoming more common in gas grills. These can include digital thermometers, app connectivity, and push alerts.
- Digital control panels: Provide precise temperature control.
- App connectivity: Allows you to monitor the grill remotely.
- Push alerts: Notify you when your food is ready.
The Weber Genesis EPX-335, for instance, has a digital control panel and app connectivity, making it easy to monitor your grilling from afar.
Warranty
A good warranty can save you money and hassle in the long run. Look for grills with comprehensive warranties.
- 1-2 years: Basic warranty, usually covers parts and labor.
- 3-5 years: Mid-range warranty, covers more components.
- 10+ years: High-end warranty, covers most parts and ensures long-term use.
The Weber Spirit II E-310 comes with a 10-year warranty, making it a reliable choice.
In the next section, we’ll compare gas vs. charcoal grills, helping you decide which type suits your grilling style best.
Gas vs. Charcoal Grills
Choosing between gas and charcoal grills can be tough. Let’s break down the key differences to help you decide.
Price
Gas grills generally have a higher upfront cost compared to charcoal grills. However, they often come with more features and durability. For example, a quality gas grill like the Weber Genesis E-325s costs more initially but offers long-term value with its robust build and features.
Charcoal grills are typically cheaper. You can get a decent charcoal grill for under $100. But, the cost of charcoal adds up over time.
Cooking Style
Gas grills offer convenience and control. You can easily adjust the temperature with a knob, making them great for quick meals. They also heat up fast, so you can start cooking in minutes.
Charcoal grills provide a unique, smoky flavor that many people love. They require more skill and patience, as you need to manage the coals and airflow to control the heat.
Smokiness
Charcoal grills win hands down in the flavor department. The smoke from the charcoal adds a rich, smoky taste to your food.
Gas grills are cleaner burning and don’t impart much flavor to the food. However, some high-end models come with smoker boxes to add a smoky flavor.
Temperature Range
Gas grills heat up quickly and can maintain a steady temperature. They are ideal for both high-heat searing and low-and-slow cooking.
Charcoal grills can reach higher temperatures than most gas grills, making them perfect for searing. However, maintaining a consistent low temperature for slow cooking can be challenging.
User Control
Gas grills offer precise control over the cooking temperature. Turn a knob, and you can go from high heat to low heat instantly.
Charcoal grills require more manual control. You adjust the heat by moving the coals and adjusting the air vents.
Setup Time
Gas grills are quick to start. Turn on the gas, ignite, and you’re ready to cook in about 10 minutes.
Charcoal grills take longer to set up. You need to arrange the coals, light them, and wait for them to reach the right temperature, which can take 20-30 minutes.
Ease of Cleanup
Gas grills are easier to clean. They don’t produce ash, and many models come with removable grease trays. For instance, the Weber Genesis E-325s has a pullout grease tray that makes cleanup a breeze.
Charcoal grills can be messier. You need to dispose of the ash and clean the grates more thoroughly.
Next, let’s dive into some frequently asked questions about gas grills to help you make an informed choice.
Frequently Asked Questions about Gas Grills
What type of gas grill is best?
Choosing the best gas grill depends on your needs. Here are the main types:
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Electric Grills: These are perfect for small spaces or apartments where open flames are not allowed. They heat up quickly and are easy to clean. However, they lack the smokiness of traditional grills.
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Gas Grills: These are the most popular. They offer convenience and quick heating. They use propane or natural gas. Models like the Weber Spirit II E-310 are praised for their reliability and performance.
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Charcoal Grills: While not a gas grill, it’s worth mentioning. They provide a smoky flavor that many grill enthusiasts love. However, they take longer to heat and are messier to clean.
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Pellet Grills: These use wood pellets and offer precise temperature control. They combine the flavor of charcoal with the ease of gas. The Traeger grills are well-known in this category.
Who makes the longest lasting gas grill?
When it comes to longevity, Weber often stands out. Their grills are made with high-quality materials and come with solid warranties. For instance, the Weber Genesis II grills have a 10-year warranty, ensuring long-term durability.
Another strong contender is Broilmaster. Known for their robust construction, Broilmaster grills like the BSG424N are built to last and come with extensive warranties.
Is Weber better than Napoleon?
Both Weber and Napoleon are top-tier brands, but they have some differences:
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Weber: Known for their reliability and excellent customer service. Models like the Weber Genesis E-325s offer great performance and are backed by a strong warranty.
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Napoleon: These grills are known for their sleek design and advanced features. They often come with higher BTUs and innovative cooking options. However, they can be more expensive.
Warranty and Power: Weber grills often come with longer warranties, while Napoleon grills tend to offer higher BTUs, which means more power for high-heat cooking.
Next, let’s dive into some frequently asked questions about gas grills to help you make an informed choice.
Conclusion
At Grill Wizard Oz, we are committed to providing expert-driven content to help you make informed purchasing decisions. We know that choosing the right gas grill can be overwhelming with all the options available. That’s why we’ve done the hard work for you, testing and comparing the best models on the market.
Why Trust Us?
Our team of experts has spent countless hours grilling, searing, and testing various gas grills to ensure we bring you accurate and reliable information. We don’t just look at specs; we actually cook on these grills, assessing their performance in real-world conditions. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend BBQ, we know what makes a grill stand out.
Making Informed Choices
When it comes to buying a gas grill, knowledge is power. Our detailed gas grill comparison charts and reviews cover everything from budget-friendly options to high-end models. We look at key features like burners, BTUs, cooking area, and smart features to help you find the perfect grill for your needs.
Your Grilling Journey
We believe that the right grill can transform your outdoor cooking experience. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, our goal is to guide you through the process and help you find a grill that meets your needs and budget. With our expert-driven content, you can make a confident and informed choice.
Thank you for trusting Grill Wizard Oz. Happy grilling!
For more detailed reviews and comparisons, visit our website.
