Grilling Into 2024: Top Trends and Expert Picks
When it comes to outdoor grills, the choices are abundant and the technology keeps evolving. If you’re in a hurry and want to know the best grills of 2024 right now:
- Best Gas Grill: Weber Genesis E-325s
- Best Charcoal Grill: Kamado Joe
- Best Pellet Grill: Pit Boss
- Best Flat-Top Grill: Blackstone 36-Inch Original Griddle
- Best Portable Grill: Coleman RoadTrip 285
Outdoor grilling is more popular than ever. In 2024, grilling trends focus on smarter technology, greater fuel efficiency, and versatility. From digital controls in kamado grills to gas grills with automatic ignition, these advances make it easier to cook great food outdoors.
We’ve tested dozens of grills to bring you the top picks for the year. Our recommendations are based on rigorous testing, expert reviews, and the latest grilling trends.
Best Gas Grills of 2024
Weber Genesis E-325s
The Weber Genesis E-325s is a standout for serious grillers. This model offers large capacity and precision temperature control. It features an extra-large sear zone, perfect for getting those restaurant-quality grill marks.
Chris Morocco, Bon Appétit Test Kitchen director, says, “The Genesis E-325s retains heat exceptionally well, which means your food cooks evenly and efficiently.”
With 787 square inches of cooking space, this grill can handle up to 10 burgers at once. It also minimizes flare-ups, making it ideal for a variety of meats. The expandable cooking grate adds versatility, allowing for both direct and indirect cooking.
Key Features:
– Extra-large sear zone
– Expandable cooking grate
– Excellent heat retention
– Minimal flare-ups
KitchenAid
Known for its kitchen appliances, KitchenAid also excels in outdoor grills. Their gas grills are celebrated for their ease of use and ample cooking surface.
The KitchenAid 3-Burner Gas Grill is a popular choice. It offers a generous 644 square inches of cooking space and comes with built-in thermometers for precise cooking. The stainless steel construction ensures durability, and the side burners add extra cooking options.
Key Features:
– 644 square inches of cooking space
– Built-in thermometers
– Stainless steel construction
– Side burners
Char-Broil
For those on a budget, Char-Broil offers budget-friendly and portable options. The Char-Broil Performance 2-Burner Gas Grill is compact yet powerful, making it perfect for small spaces or on-the-go grilling.
This model features the Amplifire Cooking System, which ensures even heat distribution and reduces flare-ups. With 300 square inches of primary cooking space, it’s ideal for small gatherings.
Key Features:
– Two burners
– 300 square inches of cooking space
– Amplifire Cooking System
– Compact design
Broil King
Broil King grills are known for their robust construction and high performance. The Broil King Regal S590 Pro offers five burners and a rotisserie burner, providing ample cooking space and versatility.
This grill is perfect for those who host large gatherings. The Flav-R-Wave cooking system ensures even heat distribution and enhances the flavor of your food.
Key Features:
– Five burners plus rotisserie
– Flav-R-Wave cooking system
– Ample cooking space
NAPOLEON
NAPOLEON grills are celebrated for their innovative features and sleek design. The Napoleon Prestige 500 is a top choice, offering four burners, an infrared side burner, and a rear rotisserie burner.
This grill is ideal for those who want a versatile cooking experience. The Jetfire ignition system ensures easy startup, and the wave cooking grids provide even heating.
Key Features:
– Four burners plus infrared side burner
– Rear rotisserie burner
– Jetfire ignition system
– Wave cooking grids
Royal Gourmet
Royal Gourmet grills combine affordability with high performance. The Royal Gourmet 4-Burner Gas Grill offers 52,000 BTUs of cooking power and a large cooking area of 683 square inches.
This grill is perfect for those who want a reliable and spacious grill without breaking the bank. The porcelain-coated cast iron grates ensure even cooking and easy cleanup.
Key Features:
– 52,000 BTUs of cooking power
– 683 square inches of cooking area
– Porcelain-coated cast iron grates
Best Charcoal Grills of 2024
Kettle Grills
Kettle grills are a favorite for many grill enthusiasts due to their compact and deep design. These grills are versatile and perfect for both beginners and seasoned grill masters.
Top Pick: Weber Original Kettle Premium 22-Inch Charcoal Grill
The Weber Original Kettle Premium stands out with its classic design and reliable performance. With a 22-inch diameter and a porcelain-enameled bowl, it provides ample cooking space. The built-in lid thermometer and heat-resistant handle make it easy to control the temperature.
Key Features:
– 22-inch diameter cooking area
– Porcelain-enameled bowl
– Built-in lid thermometer
Barrel Grills
Barrel grills, also known as drum grills, are ideal for those who need a large capacity grill. These grills are shaped like a drum, offering extensive cooking space, making them perfect for large gatherings.
Top Pick: Char-Griller Akorn Kamado Kooker
The Char-Griller Akorn Kamado Kooker combines the benefits of barrel and kamado grills. It features triple-walled steel construction for excellent heat retention and durability. With 314 square inches of cast iron cooking space and a 133-square-inch warming rack, it’s versatile for both grilling and smoking.
Key Features:
– 314 square inches of cooking space
– Triple-walled steel construction
– Cast iron cooking grates
Kamado Grills
Kamado grills are known for their ceramic construction and versatile cooking capabilities. Originating from Japan, these egg-shaped grills can grill, smoke, roast, and bake, offering unmatched temperature control and heat retention.
Top Pick: Kamado Joe Classic II
The Kamado Joe Classic II is a top choice for those who want a high-end kamado grill. Its dense ceramic body and distinctive egg shape allow for precise temperature control, from slow-smoking to flame-charring. The Konnected Joe’s smart functions, including digital controls and an onboard touchscreen, make it user-friendly.
Key Features:
– Dense ceramic construction
– Digital controls with an onboard touchscreen
– 250 square inches of cooking area
For those who prefer a more budget-friendly option, the Char-Griller Akorn Kamado Kooker offers similar benefits with a steel construction, making it a durable and affordable alternative.
Next, we’ll explore the Best Pellet Grills of 2024, highlighting the top brands like Pit Boss, Z GRILLS, and Camp Chef for those who appreciate the smoky flavor and convenience of pellet grilling.
Best Pellet Grills of 2024
Pellet grills are a game-changer for those who love the smoky flavor of wood but want the convenience of automated cooking. Let’s dive into the top picks for Best Pellet Grills of 2024.
Pit Boss
Pit Boss pellet grills are known for their robust build and exceptional smoky flavor. They use wood pellets as fuel, which are fed into a firebox by an auger, and a fan circulates the heat and smoke for even cooking. This indirect heat method is perfect for slow-cooking and smoking meats.
Key Features:
– Large cooking area
– Digital control board
– Versatile temperature range
One of the standout models is the Pit Boss 440 Wood Pellet Grill. It’s compact and portable, making it ideal for tailgating or camping. Despite its size, it offers a decent cooking area and reliable temperature control.
Z GRILLS
Z GRILLS have become a hit for their user-friendly design and affordable pricing. These grills also use wood pellets and feature an automated electric feed system that ensures consistent heat and smoke distribution.
Key Features:
– Automated electric feed system
– Large cooking area
– Durable construction
The Z GRILLS ZPG-450A is a popular model that offers a spacious cooking area and easy-to-use controls. It’s perfect for both beginners and seasoned pitmasters.
Camp Chef
Camp Chef is another favorite among pellet grill enthusiasts. Known for their portable designs and electric firebox, these grills are easy to set up and use anywhere.
Key Features:
– Portable design
– Electric firebox
– Easy ash clean-out mechanism
The Camp Chef SmokePro DLX stands out with its sturdy construction and reliable performance. It features a digital temperature control system and a spacious cooking area, making it suitable for both small and large gatherings.
Best Flat-Top Grills of 2024
When it comes to flat-top grills, versatility and high heat are key. These grills are perfect for cooking everything from pancakes to steaks. Here are our top picks for 2024.
Blackstone 36-Inch Original Griddle
The Blackstone 36-Inch Original Griddle is a powerhouse for any outdoor cooking enthusiast. With its large cooking surface and four independent burners, it can handle anything from breakfast to dinner.
Key Features:
– Large Cooking Surface: 720 square inches
– Four Burners: Offers precise temperature control
– High Heat Output: 60,000 BTUs
The Blackstone griddle is known for its durability and reliable performance. The powder-coated steel frame and stainless steel burners ensure it lasts for years. This griddle is perfect for large gatherings, making it a favorite among backyard chefs.
Pros:
– Excellent temperature control
– Durable construction
– Large cooking area
Cons:
– Requires seasoning before first use
Hamilton Beach 3-in-1 Grill/Griddle
For those on a budget, the Hamilton Beach 3-in-1 Grill/Griddle offers excellent versatility without breaking the bank. This model is perfect for small spaces and offers multiple cooking options.
Key Features:
– Multi-Functional: Can be used as a grill, griddle, or both
– Compact Design: Fits easily on any countertop
– Easy to Clean: Nonstick plates are dishwasher-friendly
This budget-friendly option is great for those who want a versatile cooking appliance. With two reversible plates, you can switch between a smooth or rigid surface, making it ideal for a variety of foods.
Pros:
– Affordable
– Versatile cooking options
– Easy to clean
Cons:
– Smaller cooking surface compared to larger models
Camp Chef Flat Top 900
If you need a large cooking surface, the Camp Chef Flat Top 900 is an excellent choice. It’s designed for large gatherings and offers six heating zones for versatile cooking.
Key Features:
– Large Cooking Surface: 877 square inches
– Six Burners: Provides even heat distribution
– Stable Design: Includes ample storage and folding tables
This grill is perfect for those who love to entertain. Its stable chassis and reliable ignition make it a worthwhile investment for any serious griller.
Pros:
– Ideal for large gatherings
– Versatile with six heating zones
– Stable and durable
Cons:
– Occupies a large amount of space
– May require assistance to move
Blue Rhino Razor Griddle
The Blue Rhino Razor Griddle offers a great balance between size and functionality. It’s perfect for those who want a high-performing grill without the bulk.
Key Features:
– Medium Cooking Surface: 730 square inches
– Four Burners: Ensures even cooking
– Portable Design: Easy to move and store
This griddle is ideal for both everyday use and special occasions. Its high heat output and portable design make it a versatile choice for any outdoor cooking enthusiast.
Pros:
– High heat output
– Portable and easy to store
– Even cooking with four burners
Cons:
– Medium size may not be enough for very large gatherings
Best Portable Grills of 2024
Coleman RoadTrip 285
The Coleman RoadTrip 285 is a top pick for portable grilling. Its stand-up design makes it easy to transport and set up anywhere, from campsites to tailgates. With a generous 285 square inches of cooking space, you can grill up to 20 burgers at once. The three independently controlled burners allow for precise temperature control, making it easy to cook a variety of foods simultaneously.
Pros:
– Stand-up design for easy transport
– Three burners for precise temperature control
– Large cooking surface
Cons:
– Weighs nearly 50 pounds, making it less ideal for rough terrain
Char-Broil Portable Gas Grill 190
For those on a budget, the Char-Broil Portable Gas Grill 190 is a compact and affordable option. Weighing just 10 pounds, it’s easy to carry and set up. Despite its small size, it can produce up to 11,000 BTUs of heat and has enough cooking area for eight or nine burgers. The push-button ignition system and simple dial temperature control make it user-friendly.
Pros:
– Compact and budget-friendly
– Lightweight and easy to transport
– Simple to use with push-button ignition
Cons:
– Heats unevenly, requiring food rotation
– Susceptible to wind blowing out the flames
Breeo Outpost Grill
The Breeo Outpost Grill is perfect for those who enjoy campfire cooking. Made from durable stainless steel, this grill can handle high temperatures and rough outdoor conditions. It features a 17-inch diameter grill grate, providing 226 square inches of cooking space. The adjustable height allows for easy heat control, making it versatile for different cooking needs.
Pros:
– Durable stainless steel construction
– Adjustable height for heat control
– Ideal for campfire cooking
Cons:
– Requires a campfire or fire pit for use
– Limited to outdoor use
Frequently Asked Questions about Outdoor Grills
What is the number one rated grill?
The Weber Genesis E-325s is often hailed as the number one rated grill. This gas grill stands out for its precision temperature control, making it easier to cook your food just right. During our tests, it maintained even heat levels with the lid closed, and the center “sear zone” stayed the hottest with the lid open, perfect for getting a nice browning on a reverse-seared steak. Though it is on the pricier side, its durability and user-friendly features make it a worthy investment.
What’s better, a charcoal or a gas grill?
Choosing between a charcoal and a gas grill depends on your priorities.
Charcoal grills are known for their rich, smoky flavor and high heat, which is great for searing meats quickly. However, they require more effort to light and maintain. If you enjoy the hands-on experience and love that authentic BBQ taste, charcoal might be for you.
Gas grills, on the other hand, offer convenience and ease of use. They ignite quickly, heat up fast, and provide precise temperature control, perfect for weeknight dinners or quick grilling sessions. Maintenance is simpler—just clean the grates and empty the grease tray. If you prefer convenience and speed, go for a gas grill.
Which grills are least likely to rust?
When it comes to durability, stainless steel grills are your best bet. Stainless steel is resistant to rust and corrosion, making it ideal for outdoor use. Look for grills with stainless steel burners, grates, and bodies to ensure longevity.
Another option to consider is grills with a nonstick coating. These coatings not only make cleaning easier but also add an extra layer of protection against rust. However, be cautious with the nonstick surface, as it can wear off over time with heavy use.
For more tips on choosing the best grill for your needs, check out our comprehensive guide.
Conclusion
At Grill Wizard Oz, we believe that the right outdoor grill can elevate your cooking experience from ordinary to extraordinary. Our expert-driven content aims to help you make informed purchasing decisions so you can find the perfect grill for your needs.
We’ve spent countless hours testing and comparing the top grills on the market. Our goal is to provide you with comprehensive, honest reviews that reflect real-world usage. Whether you’re a seasoned griller or a newbie, our detailed guides and expert insights will help you navigate the myriad of options available.
Investing in the right grill means more than just buying a piece of equipment. It’s about enhancing your outdoor adventures and creating memorable meals with friends and family. From understanding the importance of fuel types to recognizing the benefits of different cooking surfaces, our content covers all the essential features you need to consider.
For more information on the best BBQ and outdoor living products, visit our Top Rated BBQ & Outdoor Living Products page.
Thank you for trusting Grill Wizard Oz as your go-to source for all things grilling. Happy cooking!
