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Outdoor cooking is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and cook delicious food at the same time. However, with so many different types of outdoor grills on the market, it can be difficult to know which one is right for you.
From portable models that are perfect for tailgating to high-end units that will make your backyard the envy of the neighborhood, we’ve got you covered. So whether you’re looking for an affordable option or want to splurge on the latest and greatest, our list has something for everyone. Let’s start having fun with Outdoor Cooking and Happy grilling!
Types of Outdoor Grills
How do I choose an outdoor grill? There are so many on the market it can be tough. To start the search consider factors like how much space you have available, the quantity of food you’ll be cooking and your flavor preferences, the amount of time and attention you want to spend while grilling, and what type of grill is better for your lifestyle. The two most common types are gas and charcoal, but electric, kamado and pellet grills are also great options. Most gas grills are about the same except for price, size of grilling space and additional accessories.
- Gas grills are the most popular type since they’re easy to use and heat up quickly. Since their invention, they have become more popular with time and are now the most common type of grill. This type of grill makes outdoor cooking easy—no waiting for the charcoal grill or smoker to get hot, simple and immediate control over the temperature—but what’s the best gas grill for you? There are two types of gas grills: Liquid Propane (LP) Gas or natural gas: LP Gas runs on propane tank of gas, which will give you portability. Natural Gas, on the other hand, connects to natural gas line from the house, benefitting you with an endless supply of natural gas.
- Charcoal grills take a bit longer to heat up, but many people feel that they add more flavor to the food. Charcoal grills reach higher temperatures than regular gas grills, and the high heat is the key to getting your steaks to be crisp on the outside while still pink on the inside. If you’re using a charcoal grill, it would generally give off more smoke thus giving a more authentic Smokey flavor to your meats and vegetables. Gas and Charcoal grills are the two most popular.
- Electric grills are also an option, but they’re not as widely used since they’re not as efficient at heating up or holding a consistent temperature. Sear or grill within minutes since the grill heats up quickly and efficiently. Safe to use inside a home using a venting hood, or on balconies or porches of condos and apartments. Great for tailgating or camping since they are lightweight and extremely portable.
- Wood Fired Pellet Grill (Smokers or Kamado grills) are also a type of grill, but they’re not as common since they’re more difficult to use. The flavor of the meat is excellent and you don’t have to babysit your food.
Outdoor Gas Grills and Your Best Options
Weber Q2200 Outdoor Grill
Features of this Grill:
It’s the little things that make life feel big with this outdoor portable grill. Grill a quick afternoon lunch of burgers and hotdogs, or a fish fillet for family dinner. The Q 2200 gas grill is an easy solution for any meal. Try this vegan recipe, too!
NOTE: Can accommodate a full-size, 20 lb. fuel tank when using an adapter hose
Price: $299.00
Purchase your Weber Q2200 Outdoor Grill here.
RoadTrip® 225 Portable Stand-Up Propane Grill
Features of this Grill:
The Coleman® RoadTrip™ 225 Portable Standup Propane Outdoor Grill features sturdy quick-fold legs and wheels for hassle-free setup and takedown, so that taking your grill on a camping trip or to a tailgate is a breeze. You’ll also enjoy matchless lighting with the Instastart™ push-button ignition system and better temperature control with 2 adjustable burners.
- Up to 11,000 BTUs of grilling power and 225 sq. in. cooking area
- 2 adjustable burners for precise temperature control
- Water pan catches cooking grease and is removable for easy cleaning
- Durable side table for resting utensils and sauces
- Instastart ignition for push-button, matchless lighting
- Locking lid for secure transport
- Uses 1-pound propane cylinder (sold separately)
Price: $249.00
Purchase your RoadTrip® 225 Portable Stand-Up Propane Grill here.
Char-Broil Model # 46327701 Outdoor gas grill
Features of this Grill:
- Stainless steel grates offer a superior grilling experience
- A removable porcelain-coated grease pan allows for easy cleaning and replaceability
- Stainless-steel firebox includes removable high-efficiency
- Stainless steel burners with improved durability allow for even heat cooking
- Control each cooking zone with an improved zonal cooking system
Price: $849.99
Purchase your Char-Broil Model # 463277017 here.
Weber Genesis S-435 Outdoor Grill with temperature gauges
Features of this Grill:
Introducing the newly designed GENESIS gas grill – the biggest grilling innovation in decades, that creates a full backyard culinary experience. Grill, bake, and even stir-fry on the newly designed GENESIS gas grill. It is WEBER CRAFTED Outdoor Kitchen Collection compatibility that provides limitless culinary possibilities, enabling you to cook food never thought possible on the grill. Also featuring Weber’s largest & hottest sear zone and expandable top cooking grate (lots of cooking space!) – so you’re able to cook a full restaurant-quality outside, where the party is. Genesis II E-335 propane grill is also one of Weber’s iGrill 3 compatible models, along with other Genesis II models and the Spirit II line. This $100 accessory plugs into the front of the grill and houses up to four Bluetooth temperature probes. Easily gauge your cooking temperature with the temperature probes. There is plenty of storage space available. You can monitor what’s happening on this gas grill via the companion app for iOS and Android. In our testing, the Genesis II E-335 turned out seared burgers with a slightly pink center, crispy chicken skin with juicy meat and fall-off-the-bone ribs.
Features:
• WEBER CRAFTED frame; expand your menu with custom grillware
• Sear multiple steaks at once on the extra-large sear zone
• Expandable top cooking grate creates a second level of grilling
• Extra-large prep & serve table
• Sauté, boil water, or warm sauces on the side burner
Price: $1,599.00
We believe Weber Genesis S-435 is one of the best gas grills you can invest in because it offers the most features for the price. The 2022 Genesis line is also compatible with the new Weber Crafted accessories, so you can add a griddle, a wok, a baking stone , and so much more. Every model of the 2022 Genesis is also available as a natural gas grill. If you’re looking for a powerful, durable statement grill that delivers on all fronts—even without any spendy accessories or upgrades—the 2022 Weber Genesis E-325s is the best gas grill for you. This liquid propane gas grill or natural gas grill is absolutely a top choice for outdoor grilling. With 513 square inches of primary cooking grate space powered by 39,000 BTUs, plus a fold-down warming rack and a 12,000 BTU side burner, you’ll never want for cooking space. Two cabinet doors hide a two-shelf storage area below the grill for utensils and supplies. And a fuel gauge lets you know how much fuel is left in your propane tank. The cast-iron grates retain even heat while cooking and are easy to clean. The best grill! Purchase your Weber Genesis S-435 here.
Charcoal Grills and Your Best Options
Performer Premium Charcoal Grill 22″ with temperature gauges
Features on this grill:
If you’re looking for a high-quality charcoal grill, the Weber Performer is a great option. It’s made of durable materials and features a several handy features, such as an ash catcher and a built-in thermometer, even internal cooking temperature. Venture to the backyard, where your mood will gently change. Finish mixing salad on the side table while grates heat in preparation for the main course. Once all is done, and the timer sounds, take in the warm feeling of serving your company amazing food. Charcoal grilling meets everyday life with the Performer Premium charcoal grill. A great option for a charcoal grill.
Price: $459.00
Purchase you Performer Premium Charcoal Grill 22″ here.
Weber Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill, 26-Inch, Black
Features on this grill:
The 26-inch Original Kettle® Premium is the best portable charcoal grill you want at your next party. It’s large enough to grill an entire dinner during the week, or a bunch of burgers at your next barbecue. With premium features, such as a hinged cooking grate for easily adding charcoal while grilling, and the One-Touch™ cleaning system with high-capacity ash catcher, your grilling experience will be completely carefree from beginning to end. A popular choice for a charcoal grill and the best charcoal grill.
Features:
• Holds up to 19 burgers made with a Weber burger press
• One-Touch™ cleaning system with high-capacity ash catcher provides hassle-free ash cleanup
• Porcelain-enameled lid and bowl retain heat, and won’t rust or peel
• Slide the lid into the Tuck-Away™ lid holder on the side of the grill to avoid placing it on the ground
• Premium stainless steel cooking grate is hinged for easily adding charcoal while grilling
• Built-in lid thermometer displays the internal temperature of your grill
Price: $389.00
Purchase your Weber Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill, 26-Inch, Black here.
Char-Griller Flavor Pro Multi-Fuel Grill
Features on this grill:
Another great option is the Char-Broil Patio Bistro Grill is an amazing renter-friendly option. Because it’s not a charcoal or gas grill, this grill can sneak its way into some communities that otherwise prohibit traditional grills. What we love While it’s compact, the Char-Broil grill has space for 12 burgers at any one time. Enjoy fast and easy flavor with the Char-Griller Flavor Pro™ Multi-Fuel Grill. This innovative grill combines the ease and power of gas with the flavor of charcoal thanks to the Flavor Drawer™. This first of its kind grill design includes a patented Flavor Drawer™ that allows you to infuse your food with real smokehouse flavor by giving you the option to cook with gas, charcoal, wood chip/chunks, pellets and wood logs. This grill has plenty of cooking space and storage space. It gives you an even cooking temperature. The multiple fuel options have you ready to grill in no time thanks to the powerful 40,000 BTU gas burners. Outdoor cooking with this grill will make your food taste better.
Features:
- Total Cooking Area: 725 Square Inches
- Primary Cooking Area: 508 Sqaure Inches
- 40,000 BTUs
- Flavor Drawer™
- Porcelain Coated Cast Iron Grates
- Electronic ignition
- Stainless Steel Burners
- Stay Cool Handles
- Fixed Side Shelves
- Storage Cabinet
- Slide Out Ash and Grease Pan
- Adjustable Smokestacks
- One Year Limited Warranty
Price: $599.00
Purchase your Char-Griller Flavor Pro Multi-Fuel Grill here.
Electric Grills and Your Best Options
For people who live in apartments or don’t have access to outdoor space, this type of grill works. Grill meats and veggies without the smoke or fire hazard. You can sear or grill within minutes since the grill heats up so quickly. These portable grills are safe to use inside a home using a vent hood, great for tailgating or camping. They are lightweight and portable. No propane tanks are needed and much more affordable.
Our top picks:
Cuisinart CEG980T Outdoor Electric Tabletop Grill
Features of this Electric Grill:
The Cuisinart Outdoor Tabletop Portable Electric Grill provides authentic grilling performance and flavor. Its small format fits easily on balconies and small patios – great for places where propane or charcoal grills aren’t allowed. And although the grill is compact, its ample cooking grate is large enough to cook most family meals – 8 steaks, 8 hamburgers, 6 – 10 chicken breasts, or over 4 lbs. of fish! The grill heats up very quickly and reaches temperatures high enough to sear a steak to perfection. Storage is a snap – with its folding legs it stows almost anywhere. The grill plugs into a standard household electrical receptacle and is UL approved for outdoor use.
Features:
- 1500 watts, 120V / 60Hz
- 145 sq. in. grilling surface
- Folding table base
- Porcelain enamel coated grill grate
- Lid latch and spill resistant drip tray
Price: $149.99
Purchase your Cuisinart CEG980T Outdoor Electric Tabletop Grill here.
Weber Pulse 2000 Electric Grill
Features of this Electric Grill:
The Pulse 2000 Grill is for the experienced griller and is the best. Expect high-performance with convenience. Simply plug in, power on, and allow the digital precision temperature control to preheat to the desired temperature while the integrated Weber Connect smart technology provides precision grilling that delivers great results every time. Enjoy easy and convenient modern grilling with an authentic taste.
Features:
• Pulse operates on 13 amps of electrical current
• Maximum temperature of 600° F
• Digital precision temperature control provides consistent temperatures
• Weber Connect technology includes guided grilling with recipes
• Weber Connect App remotely monitors grill and food temps
• Dual zone grilling to simultaneously grill different foods
Price: $779.00
Purchase your Weber Pulse 2000 Electric Grill here.
The George Foreman® Five Serving Grill & Broil™
Features of this Electric Grill:
The George Foreman® Five Serving Grill & Broil™ with Five Nonstick Plates is the brand’s latest invention in fast and simple at-home cooking; featuring George Foreman’s proprietary fat draining design. The Grill & Broil takes the classic George Foreman portable grill and combines it with the convenience of countertop broiling, allowing users to grill, broil and melt all in one appliance. Providing endless meal options, the all-in-one grill features two non-stick ceramic grill plates, two waffle plates and a ceramic griddle plate, all of which are durable, removable and dishwasher safe. The best grill!
Features:
- Ceramic Grill Plates
- Broil Function
- Premium Ceramic Coating
- Variable Temperature
- Adjustable Hinge
- Dishwasher-Safe Removable Plates
- Fat-Draining Design
- Bonus Plates
Price: $298.00
Purchase your The George Foreman® Five Serving Grill & Broil™ here.
Wood Fire Pellet Grills (Smokers) and Your Best Options
The flavor is the biggest when you own a wood pellet grill. This type of grill is a great option because it provides the best flavor, wood. You can vary the flavor with the type of wood pellets you choose and can mix and match them for that perfect flavor. They are easy to use and One button start up – no lighter fluid needed. You won’t over-smoke your food and will never have flare up. Another advantage to pellet grills is precise control of cooking temperatures between 180 degrees to 500 degrees you can sear, smoke, roast, and bake with a pellet grill. Pellet grills provide a unique way to smoke your food. Wood pellets are clean and easy to use.
Traeger Ironwood 885 Pellet Grill
Elevate your craft with the Ironwood
It’s loaded with additional features to help you take your cooks to the next level. A great choice for a pellet grill.
Double-sidewall insulation maintains steady heat levels to give you even more consistent results, while Super Smoke Mode lets you amp up the wood-fired flavor with the press of a button.
Features of this grill:
- Downdraft Exhaust & Super Smoke Mode
- Pellet sensor
- Dual Position Smoke/Sear Bottom Grate
- WiFIRE Technology
- D2 Grill Controller
- Double Side Wall Interior
- Included Meat Probe
- Porcelain-Coated Grill Grates
- All-Terrain Wheels
- Locking Caster Wheels
- Grill Tool Hooks
Price: $1405.00
Purchase your Traeger Ironwood 885 Pellet Grill here.
The Big Green Egg
Features of this Grill:
Finally, another great option is this egg shaped kamado grill works very well. The Large EGG is the most popular size and a favorite kamado grills to handle the cooking needs of most families and gatherings of friends. Accommodates all EGGcessories for baking, roasting or smoking. It’s versatile enough for weekend cookouts or pizza parties, large enough for eight steaks at once, and efficient enough for an impromptu meatloaf for two! This kamado grill helps make outdoor cooking fun. I Love the egg shaped Big Green Egg. The best grill.
Features:
Grid Diameter: 18.25 in / 46 cm
Cooking Area: 262 sq in / 1688 sq cm
Weight: 162 lbs / 73 kgs
The Large EGG can cook
- 20-pound turkeys
- 12 burgers
- 6 chickens vertically
- 8 steaks
- 7 racks of ribs vertically
Price: $999.00
Purchase your The Big Green Egg here.
Summary
That concludes our summary of top picks for the Best Outdoor Grills to invest in this year. All grills come with grilling accessories. Here are some fun ideas for grill accessories. I should also add that no matter what type of outdoor grill you choose, whether it’s an electric grill, gas and charcoal grill, pellet grill, infrared grill or one of the many other types, you should absolutely brush up on how to clean it (keeping that grilling surface clean with a grill brush and grill cleaner is essential to outdoor cooking) and the best accessories for grilling. Tips on cleaning ideas.
Our Top Picks Best Overall: Big Green Egg Large Kamado Grill
Best Gas: Weber Genesis II 3-Burner Natural Gas Grill
Best Charcoal Grill: Weber Original Kettle Charcoal Grill
Best Gas and Charcoal: Char-Griller Double Play Gas and Charcoal Grill
Best Electric: Spark One Electric Grill
Best Wood Pellet: Traeger Pro Series Grill & Smoker
Best Griddle: Cuisinart 360 Degree Griddle Cooking Center
This concludes our finds for the best grills. We hope this has helped make it easier to find the best grill to fit your needs. Happy grilling and Have fun with outdoor cooking!