6 Best Outdoor Grills

When it comes to outdoor grilling, you're spoiled for choice. With so many options available, you must find the perfect fit for your needs. From compact and portable to spacious and feature-rich, the best outdoor grills cater to different preferences and cooking styles. You might be drawn to the MASTER COOK's large cooking area or the Cuisinart's sleek portability. Or perhaps you're intrigued by the Royal Gourmet's rotisserie kit or the Weber Spirit II's porcelain-enameled grates. Whatever your priorities, there's an ideal grill out there waiting for you. But which one will you choose?

Key Takeaways

• Consider grill size and type based on outdoor cooking area, number of people, and type of food to ensure the right fit.

• Choose between gas, charcoal, or electric fuel types considering convenience, cost, and grilling experience.

• Select a grill with a suitable cooking surface area to accommodate the number of items to be cooked simultaneously and cooking techniques.

• Look for grills with heat control options like ignition systems, adjustable burner knobs, and integrated thermometers for precise heat control.

• Prioritize durability and build quality by considering sturdy construction, materials, and build quality for a long-lasting grill.

MASTER COOK 3 Burner BBQ Propane Gas Grill

The MASTER COOK 3 Burner BBQ Propane Gas Grill is a top choice for outdoor enthusiasts who crave a perfect blend of power and portability, boasting an impressive 30,000 BTU-per-hour output from its three stainless steel burners.

It's built to last, with a stainless steel construction, porcelain-enamel wire cooking grates, and a stainless steel frame and handle.

The integrated piezoelectric ignition system makes it easy to get started, and the stainless steel control panel with chromium plating control knob adds a touch of sophistication.

With 471.8 square inches of total cooking area, there's plenty of room to cook up a storm.

The two foldable tables and heavy-duty wheel casters make it easy to take on the go.

Best For: Outdoor enthusiasts who need a portable and powerful grill for camping trips, backyard gatherings, or other outdoor events.

Pros:

• The grill's 30,000 BTU-per-hour output and three stainless steel burners provide ample power for cooking large quantities of food.
• The stainless steel construction, porcelain-enamel wire cooking grates, and stainless steel frame and handle ensure durability and easy cleaning.
• The foldable tables and heavy-duty wheel casters make the grill portable and easy to store.

Cons:

• The grill's 39.7-pound weight may make it difficult for some users to transport or store.
• The grill's large size (46.46L x 20.87W x 41.14H inches) may not fit in smaller outdoor spaces.
• The grill's many features and large cooking area may make it more expensive than smaller or simpler grills.

Cuisinart Portable Propane Tabletop Gas Grill

We outdoor enthusiasts who need a reliable and portable grilling solution will appreciate the Cuisinart Portable Propane Tabletop Gas Grill, which boasts a powerful 20,000 BTU output and compact design.

Weighing only 24 pounds, this grill is easy to take on the go, and its locking cover, folding legs, and carrying handle make it a breeze to transport.

We can set it up in under 10 minutes, thanks to its no-assembly-required design and electronic ignition.

The grill's stainless steel construction, including the grates and drip tray, makes cleanup a snap, and we appreciate that the grates, burner covers, and drip tray are all dishwasher-safe.

Best For: Outdoor enthusiasts who need a reliable, portable, and easy-to-use grilling solution for camping, picnics, or backyard gatherings.

Pros:

• Lightweight and compact design with a carrying handle, making it easy to transport
• Quick setup and ignition with electronic ignition and no assembly required
• Easy cleanup with stainless steel construction and dishwasher-safe grates, burner covers, and drip tray

Cons:

• Shallow dome design may lead to significant temperature drop when the lid is opened
• No specific mention of a warranty or customer support
• May not be suitable for large groups or heavy-duty grilling due to its compact size

Royal Gourmet 5-Burner Propane Gas Grill with Rotisserie Kit

With its robust 74,000 BTU output and expansive 738 sq. in. cooking area, this Royal Gourmet 5-Burner Propane Gas Grill with Rotisserie Kit is a powerhouse for large families or outdoor enthusiasts who need to cook for a crowd.

We appreciate the versatility of this grill, which features a rotisserie kit with a motor for slow-roasting, an electronic ignition for instant burner ignition, and an integrated temperature gauge for precise heat control.

The porcelain-enameled cast iron grates and steel wire warming rack provide ample space for cooking multiple items simultaneously.

Furthermore, the removable grease tray and cup make cleanup a breeze.

With its sturdy construction and free-standing design, this grill is perfect for backyard gatherings and outdoor events.

Best For: Large families or outdoor enthusiasts who need to cook for a crowd.

Pros:

• Sturdy construction with porcelain-enameled and cast iron construction
• Even heat distribution and ample cooking space with 738 sq. in. cooking area
• Easy cleanup with removable grease tray and cup

Cons:

• Assembly difficulties reported by some customers
• Missing parts and quality control issues mentioned in some reviews
• Requires 1 AA battery for operation

George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Electric Grill

If you're looking for a grill that can handle large gatherings, the George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Electric Grill is an excellent choice, serving up 12+ servings of grilled food on its 200 sq. in. nonstick cooking surface.

We love that it's designed for both indoor and outdoor use, and its fully electric design with adjustable temperature control makes it easy to cook up a storm.

The sloped grilling surface is also a great feature, removing up to 42% of fat from our food.

The durable nonstick coating makes cleaning a breeze, and its compact, portable design means we can take it anywhere.

With an impressive 4.4-star rating from over 4,895 reviews, it's clear this grill is a crowd-pleaser.

Best For: Indoor and outdoor enthusiasts who need a compact and portable grill for large gatherings.

Pros:

• Fully electric with adjustable temperature control for easy cooking
• Durable nonstick coating and sloped grilling surface for easy cleaning and fat removal
• Compact, portable design for indoor and outdoor use

Cons:

• Some concerns about the stability and design of the stand
• No additional features beyond adjustable temperature control
• Made in China, which may be a concern for some customers

Weber Original Kettle 22-Inch Charcoal Grill

For those seeking a charcoal grill that offers superior heat retention and precise temperature control, the Weber Original Kettle 22-Inch Charcoal Grill is an excellent choice.

We love that this grill's porcelain-enameled lid and bowl retain heat perfectly, allowing for consistent cooking results.

The dampers also provide precise temperature control, giving us the flexibility to cook a variety of dishes.

Cleanup is a breeze with the One-Touch cleaning system and removable aluminum ash catcher.

This grill can hold up to 13 burgers, making it perfect for small to medium-sized gatherings.

With its durable construction and excellent customer reviews, this grill is definitely worth considering for our outdoor cooking needs.

Best For: Charcoal grill enthusiasts who want a reliable and easy-to-use grill for small to medium-sized gatherings.

Pros:

• Offers superior heat retention and precise temperature control for consistent cooking results
• Easy to clean with the One-Touch cleaning system and removable aluminum ash catcher
• Durable construction and excellent customer reviews make it a great value for the price

Cons:

• Some reviewers mention minor issues with the ash catcher and temperature control
• Assembly is required, which may be a drawback for some users
• Limited manufacturer warranty may not provide adequate protection for some users

Weber Spirit II E-210 Liquid Propane Grill

We opt for the Weber Spirit II E-210 Liquid Propane Grill when seeking a reliable and affordable outdoor cooking solution that offers excellent heat distribution and ease of use.

This grill boasts porcelain-enameled, cast-iron cooking grates and a porcelain-enameled lid, ensuring a durable and rust-resistant cooking surface.

The grill's dimensions are 48 x 26 x 57 inches, and it works with a standard 20-pound LP tank.

We appreciate the built-in lid thermometer, fold-down left side table, and fuel gauge, making it easy to monitor and control our cooking experience.

With its excellent heat distribution and user-friendly design, this grill is an excellent choice for those seeking a hassle-free outdoor cooking experience.

Best For: Those who want a reliable and affordable outdoor cooking solution with excellent heat distribution and ease of use.

Pros:

• Excellent heat distribution and ease of control
• Durable and rust-resistant cooking surface with porcelain-enameled, cast-iron cooking grates and lid
• User-friendly design with built-in lid thermometer, fold-down left side table, and fuel gauge

Cons:

• Assembly instructions can be confusing for novices
• Propane tank fullness gauge is not accurate
• Assembly takes around 1-2 hours with or without a helper

Factors to Consider When Choosing Outdoor Grills

When selecting the perfect outdoor grill, you'll want to think about a few key factors to guarantee you get the right one for your needs.

You'll need to ponder the size of the grill, the type of fuel it uses, and the cooking surface area.

Furthermore, you'll want to weigh the heat control options, durability, and build quality to make an informed decision.

Grill Size Matters

Considering the space you have available for outdoor cooking and the number of people you'll be grilling for, you'll want to choose a grill that's proportional to your needs.

A grill that's too small will leave you struggling to cook for a crowd, while one that's too large will waste space and fuel. Measure your outdoor cooking area to determine the maximum size of grill you can fit comfortably.

Next, think about how many people you'll be cooking for regularly. A small to medium-sized grill (around 200-300 square inches) is perfect for small families or couples, while larger grills (400-500 square inches) are better suited for big families or frequent entertainers.

Don't forget to ponder the type of food you'll be grilling – if you're a burger and hot dog enthusiast, a smaller grill might suffice, but if you're a BBQ aficionado, you'll want more space for ribs and briskets.

Ultimately, selecting the right grill size will guarantee you can cook efficiently and effectively, without sacrificing valuable outdoor space. By taking the time to assess your needs, you'll be well on your way to finding the perfect grill for your outdoor kitchen.

Type of Fuel Counts

With your grill size determined, you'll need to decide which type of fuel will power your outdoor cooking adventures. This is a vital decision, as it affects convenience, cost, and the overall grilling experience.

You have three primary options: gas, charcoal, and electric.

Gas grills offer ease of use and quick heat control. They're a great choice if you're short on time or want a hassle-free experience. However, they can be more expensive to operate, and you'll need to maintain a steady supply of propane.

Charcoal grills provide a traditional, smoky flavor that many enthusiasts swear by. They can be more cost-effective, but require more effort to light and maintain. You'll need to clean up ash and residue after each use.

Electric grills are a convenient, eco-friendly option that's perfect for small spaces or apartments. They're generally more affordable, but may lack the authentic grilling experience.

Consider your lifestyle, cooking style, and personal preferences when choosing the right fuel type for your outdoor grill.

Cooking Surface Area

You've settled on a fuel type, now it's time to think about the cooking surface area that'll accommodate your outdoor cooking needs.

The cooking surface area is a vital factor to weigh, as it directly affects the number of items you can cook at once and the cooking techniques you can use.

A larger cooking surface area, typically measured in square inches, allows for cooking multiple items simultaneously, making it ideal for large families or social gatherings. For instance, the Master Cook 3 Burner BBQ Propane Gas Grill offers 471.8 square inches of total cooking area.

On the other hand, a smaller cooking surface area, like the Cuisinart Portable Propane Tabletop Gas Grill, is more suitable for small families, couples, or individuals.

When choosing a grill, take into account the number of people you typically cook for and the types of food you plan to cook. This will help determine the ideal cooking surface area for your needs, providing you with the flexibility to cook a variety of dishes and experiment with different cooking techniques.

Heat Control Options

Your outdoor grill's heat control options are essential in achieving the perfect cooking temperature, and understanding these features will help you tailor the heat to your specific cooking needs.

When choosing an outdoor grill, consider the type of ignition system it uses. Electronic ignition systems, like those found in the Cuisinart Portable Propane Tabletop Gas Grill, provide a convenient and reliable way to ignite the grill. You'll also want to look for automatic ignition features, such as the twist-start automatic ignition in the Cuisinart Portable Propane Tabletop Gas Grill, which allow for easy and quick ignition.

Adjustable burner knobs, like those found in the Cuisinart Portable Propane Tabletop Gas Grill, enable precise heat control, allowing you to tailor the heat to your specific cooking needs.

Integrated thermometers, such as the one in the Master Cook 3 Burner BBQ Propane Gas Grill, provide an accurate reading of the grill's temperature, helping you achieve ideal cooking conditions.

Some grills, like the Weber Spirit II E-210 Liquid Propane Grill, feature a built-in lid thermometer, allowing you to monitor the internal temperature of the grill without having to open the lid.

Durability and Build

When selecting an outdoor grill, you'll want to look beyond heat control options and consider the durability and build of your potential grill, as a sturdy construction is vital to withstanding outdoor weather conditions and guaranteeing a long lifespan.

A durable grill should have a sturdy frame and construction that can withstand outdoor weather conditions, such as stainless steel or porcelain-enameled materials.

The build quality of your grill is essential, as it affects its performance, longevity, and ease of maintenance.

Look for features like removable ash catchers and one-touch cleaning systems that make upkeep easier.

The type of materials used in a grill's construction, such as porcelain, aluminum, or steel, can affect its durability and heat retention.

Porcelain-enameled lids and bowls, for instance, retain heat well.

Portability and Storage

As you weigh your outdoor grill options, consider how often you'll need to transport and store your grill, and prioritize portability and storage features that fit your lifestyle.

If you plan to take your grill on camping trips or to outdoor gatherings, look for a portable option that weighs between 20-40 pounds for easy transport. A compact design with folding legs will also save you storage space when the grill's not in use.

When choosing a portable grill, make sure it has a carrying handle or strap to make transportation easier. Verify the handle is heat-resistant to avoid burns.

If you have limited storage space, consider a grill with a smaller footprint, like the George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Electric Grill.

Durability is also key when it comes to portable grills, so prioritize construction materials that can withstand frequent transport and outdoor use.

Additional Features

Beyond portability and storage considerations, think about the additional features that can elevate your outdoor grilling experience. You'll want to weigh the importance of features that enhance convenience, such as foldable tables, heavy-duty wheel casters, and storage racks. These extras can improve your overall grilling experience and make it more enjoyable.

When it comes to safety and temperature control, examine the benefits of heat-resistant handles and integrated thermometers. These features can provide added safety and help you achieve perfect grilling results. Electronic ignition systems and auto-ignite features can also simplify the startup process and reduce the risk of accidental fires.

If you're planning to take your grill on the go, ponder portable grills with locking covers and carrying handles. These features provide flexibility and ease of transport, making them ideal for camping trips, picnics, or backyard gatherings. Finally, think about the durability of the grill's construction materials, such as stainless steel and porcelain-enamel, which can withstand harsh outdoor conditions and require minimal maintenance.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Often Should I Clean My Outdoor Grill to Prevent Rust?

The answer to how often to clean your outdoor grill to prevent rust depends on how frequently you use it.

If you grill daily, clean it every week.

If it's just weekends, clean it every two weeks.

And if it's only occasional, clean it after each use.

Always scrub the grates and wipe down the exterior to keep rust at bay.

Can I Use an Outdoor Grill in a Small Apartment Balcony?

You can use an outdoor grill on your small apartment balcony.

The good news is, you can! Just make sure to check your building's rules and regulations first.

Consider a compact grill that fits your balcony's space constraints.

Also, make certain of proper ventilation to avoid smoke and carbon monoxide buildup.

With a little planning, you can enjoy grilling on your balcony!

Do Outdoor Grills Come With a Built-In Thermometer?

Some outdoor grills come with a built-in thermometer, but not all.

You'll often find thermometers in mid-to-high-end grills, especially those with advanced features.

However, basic or portable grills mightn't have one.

When shopping, look for 'built-in thermometer' or 'temperature gauge' in the product description to verify you get one that meets your needs.

Can I Convert a Propane Grill to Use Natural Gas?

You're wondering if you can convert a propane grill to use natural gas.

The answer is yes, but it's not a straightforward process.

You'll need to purchase a conversion kit specifically designed for your grill model, which can be pricey.

Furthermore, you'll need to verify your grill is compatible with natural gas and follow the manufacturer's instructions for the conversion.

Be prepared to invest time and money into this project.

Are Outdoor Grills Suitable for Cooking Delicate Fish Fillets?

You're wondering if outdoor grills are suitable for cooking delicate fish fillets.

The answer is yes, but it requires some finesse.

You'll need to adjust the heat to a medium-low setting and cook the fish for a shorter time to prevent overcooking.

Make sure to oil the grates to prevent sticking, and don't press down on the fish with your spatula to prevent breaking.

With a little practice, you'll be grilling fish like a pro!