Choosing the right BBQ grill can make all the difference when it comes to creating mouthwatering meals. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned grill master, there’s a BBQ grill out there that suits your needs and budget. In this guide, we’ll explore the best BBQ grills available, ranging from affordable charcoal grills to premium gas models. Let’s dive in and find the perfect grill for your next cookout!
1. Best Budget Charcoal Grills (Under $100)
Charcoal grills are the go-to option for those who love the traditional smoky flavor of BBQ. If you’re on a budget, there are still plenty of options that deliver great performance without breaking the bank.
Weber Original Kettle Charcoal Grill (18-Inch)
- Price: Around $100
- Why It’s Great: The Weber Original Kettle is a classic for a reason. Its iconic design, sturdy build, and excellent heat control make it one of the best charcoal grills available, even at this budget price point. It features a durable porcelain-enameled lid and bowl, making it resistant to rust and easy to clean.
- Key Features: Adjustable dampers for heat control, one-touch cleaning system, and a cooking grate large enough for up to 9 burgers at a time.
Char-Griller E1515 Patio Pro Charcoal Grill
- Price: Around $90
- Why It’s Great: Ideal for small spaces, the Char-Griller Patio Pro is compact but packs a punch when it comes to grilling power. It offers great heat retention, thanks to its cast iron cooking grates, and its side shelf provides a convenient space for prepping.
- Key Features: 250 square inches of cooking space, side shelf for prep, and built-in wheels for easy mobility.
Pro Tip: Charcoal grills are perfect for achieving that authentic BBQ flavor, but they require more attention to heat control and longer prep time compared to gas grills.
2. Best Mid-Range Charcoal Grills (Under $300)
If you have a bit more to spend and want something that offers more space and versatility, these mid-range charcoal grills are excellent options.
Weber Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill (22-Inch)
- Price: Around $220
- Why It’s Great: This is an upgraded version of the classic Weber Kettle, offering a larger cooking area, improved ash cleaning system, and built-in thermometer. It’s perfect for anyone looking to take their charcoal grilling to the next level.
- Key Features: 363 square inches of cooking space, hinged cooking grate for adding charcoal easily, built-in lid thermometer, and an enclosed ash catcher.
Oklahoma Joe’s Highland Offset Smoker and Charcoal Grill
- Price: Around $300
- Why It’s Great: The Oklahoma Joe’s Highland grill is a versatile charcoal grill and smoker combo. This grill is perfect for anyone who loves smoking meats while still enjoying the traditional grill experience.
- Key Features: 619 square inches of primary cooking space, heavy-gauge steel construction, and offset firebox for low and slow smoking.
Pro Tip: If you love the idea of smoking meats in addition to grilling, a charcoal smoker grill combo like the Oklahoma Joe’s Highland is a great investment.
3. Best Budget Gas Grills (Under $200)
Gas grills are known for their convenience and ease of use. If you prefer fast heating, easy temperature control, and hassle-free cleanup, these budget gas grills offer fantastic value.
Char-Broil Classic 280 2-Burner Gas Grill
- Price: Around $140
- Why It’s Great: This 2-burner gas grill is affordable and offers great performance for its price. It heats up quickly, provides ample cooking space for small gatherings, and is easy to move with its built-in wheels.
- Key Features: 280 square inches of cooking space, porcelain-coated grates for even heating, and two stainless steel burners.
Cuisinart CGG-180T Petit Gourmet Portable Gas Grill
- Price: Around $130
- Why It’s Great: Perfect for tailgating, camping, or small balconies, this portable gas grill is compact but delivers big flavor. Despite its small size, it heats up quickly and evenly, allowing you to grill meats, veggies, and more.
- Key Features: 145 square inches of cooking space, foldable legs for portability, and porcelain-enameled grates for even heat distribution.
Pro Tip: Portable gas grills are great for those with limited space or for those who want to take their BBQ on the go, but they may lack the cooking area for larger gatherings.
4. Best Mid-Range Gas Grills (Under $500)
For those who want a bit more space and advanced features, mid-range gas grills provide more burners, better materials, and added convenience.
Weber Spirit II E-310 3-Burner Gas Grill
- Price: Around $450
- Why It’s Great: The Weber Spirit II E-310 is one of the most popular mid-range gas grills. It features three burners, providing excellent heat distribution, and its open-cart design offers plenty of space for prepping and storing grilling tools.
- Key Features: 529 square inches of cooking space, porcelain-enameled grates, built-in thermometer, and iGrill 3 compatibility for smart grilling.
Monument Grills 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill
- Price: Around $400
- Why It’s Great: If you’re cooking for larger groups, the Monument Grills 4-burner model offers plenty of space and power. It heats up fast and allows for multiple grilling zones to cook different foods at once.
- Key Features: 513 square inches of cooking space, built-in side burner, LED-lit control knobs for night grilling, and porcelain-coated cast iron cooking grates.
Pro Tip: A 3- or 4-burner gas grill allows for more versatility, letting you cook different foods at various heat levels simultaneously.
5. Best Premium Gas Grills (Over $500)
If you’re ready to invest in a top-tier gas grill, premium models offer advanced features like infrared burners, rotisseries, and superior materials for long-lasting performance.
Napoleon Prestige 500 Propane Gas Grill
- Price: Around $1,200
- Why It’s Great: The Napoleon Prestige 500 is a high-end gas grill that offers luxury and performance. It features a large cooking area, four main burners, a side infrared burner, and a rear infrared rotisserie burner. This grill is ideal for those who want to cook like a pro at home.
- Key Features: 500 square inches of cooking space, side and rear infrared burners, stainless steel construction, and built-in rotisserie kit.
Weber Genesis II S-435 4-Burner Gas Grill
- Price: Around $1,000
- Why It’s Great: The Weber Genesis II S-435 offers ample space and high-end features, making it a favorite for serious grillers. It’s equipped with Weber’s GS4 grilling system, which ensures even heat distribution and excellent flame control.
- Key Features: 844 square inches of total cooking space, stainless steel construction, sear station, side burner, and smart iGrill compatibility.
Pro Tip: Premium gas grills are an investment but provide superior performance, durability, and added features that can last for years with proper care.
Conclusion
Finding the right BBQ grill depends on your budget, grilling needs, and personal preferences. Whether you prefer the smoky flavor of a charcoal grill or the convenience of a gas grill, there’s a model out there for every budget. From affordable options like the Weber Original Kettle to premium gas grills like the Napoleon Prestige 500, these grills will help you achieve BBQ perfection at your next cookout.
