The Char-Broil Classic Series 3-Burner Gas Grill is the winner. The performance of this grill, how uniformly it cooked, and the quantity of cooking area surprised our tester. Our tester preferred the Cuisinart Petit Gourmet Portable Gas Grill for its smaller size.
A top-of-the-line gas barbecue may cost thousands of dollars, but there are solutions for you if you want to spend less. While you won’t buy a professional-grade device that will last forever, a budget-friendly version should survive for years of grilling hot dogs, hamburgers, steaks, and more—as long as you clean and maintain it properly. We evaluated and investigated top-rated brands to assist you select the finest alternative for you since there are so many options on the market today (some of which are substantially better than others).
1. Best Overall: Char-Broil 463773717 Classic Series 3-Burner Gas Grill
What We Enjoy
- Compact
- It is simple to move about.
- Temperature control and an even flame
What We Dislike
- Not very durable
- There is no drip pan on the right side.
- Food may adhere to barbecue grates.
Who else endorses it? The AMERICAN GOURMET Classic 3-Burner Gas Grill was also chosen by Bob Vila.
What do purchasers think? This product received four stars or higher from 89% of the 3,000+ Amazon reviewers.
The Char-Broil Classic 3-Burner Propane Grill is one of the finest gas grills under $200. This freestanding model has everything you need to organize an incredible outdoor BBQ, and the pricing is unbeatable. While it lacks the bells and frills of more expensive versions, our tester found its performance to be “amazing” and thought it was a particularly appropriate alternative for tiny rooms.
This propane grill boasts 360 square inches of main cooking surface (enough to accommodate up to 15 burgers at once) and a 170-square-inch swing-away warming rack. The grill has three independently controllable burners with a total heat output of 30,000 BTU. The grill has electrical ignition, porcelain-coated grates, stainless steel burners, and two sturdy side shelves for food preparation. For further mobility, the grill is placed on 6-inch wheels.
Check out Here Are The Best Tailgate Grills For Your Next BBQ Occasion
2. Best Compact: Cuisinart CGG-180 Petite Gourmet Gas Grill With VersaStand
What We Enjoy
- Design is compact.
- Surface area of sufficient size
- Transitions from tabletop to ground application
- Excellent grill lines
What We Dislike
- a little shaky
- There is no temperature gauge.
- The lid kept locking.
- There is just one burner.
Do you have limited room for your grill? The Cuisinart Petit Gourmet Portable Gas Grill, with its VersaStand that allows it to be used freestanding or as a tabletop model, is ideal for you. The overall dimensions of the device are around 16 by 32 inches, but it includes a 145-square-inch grilling area and a 5,500-BTU burner that allows you to cook for four to six people at a time.
This gas barbecue works on liquid propane and weighs just 17 pounds, making it an ideal option for camping or tailgating. It comes with a temperature monitor and a twist-start electrical ignition, but what sets this grill apart is its telescopic stand, which sets up and takes down in seconds. This gas grill’s tiny size and adaptability are unbeatable, and reviews claim it’s solid, simple to use, and the ideal size for a small group of people.
3. Best Two-Burner: Char-Broil Classic 2-Burner Propane Gas Grill
What We Enjoy
- Excellent value given its size.
- There are two burners.
- There are two prep tables.
What We Dislike
- Complicated to put together
If you don’t want nearly as much cooking space, the Char-Broil Classic 280 2-Burner Gas Grill is the next model down from our top selection. This propane-powered grill has many of the same features as our top selection, but it is somewhat smaller, with just two burners and 280 square inches of cooking surface.
This two-burner grill boasts porcelain-coated grates, side shelves that measure 13 x 12 inches, and an electrical ignition system. It generates 20,000 BTUs of heat over the cooking surface, and its two stainless steel burners provide uniform cooking. The grill features wheels on one side for easy movement, and reviews claim that although it’s a bit difficult to put up, you won’t be disappointed with the performance of this inexpensive small barbecue.
Check Out Best Gas Grills Under $500 in 2023
4. Best Collapsible : Cuisinart All-Foods Roll-Away Portable Grill
What We Enjoy
- Design that collapses
- Large kitchen area
- There are two fold-out shelves.
What We Dislike
- A little wobbles
- Igniter is not always dependable.
If you don’t have a specific space on your patio for a grill, the Cuisinart All-Foods Roll-Away Portable Grill offers a convenient foldable design that makes it simple to store in your garage or shed. A single stainless steel loop burner generates 15,000 BTUs of heat throughout the grill’s 240-square-inch porcelain-enameled cast iron cooking surface.
The Cuisinart All-Foods Grill comes with a folding stand and two handy fold-out side racks. The twist-to-start ignition makes it simple to start, and a built-in hood thermometer lets you to see the inside temperature of the grill at a glance.
Check out Best Portable Gas Grills To Bring On Your Next Trip
5. Best Griddle: Royal Gourmet PD1301S Portable 24-Inch 3-Burner Table Top Gas Grill Griddle
What We Enjoy
- Cooking area that is flat
- The griddle top is removable for cleaning.
What We Dislike
- Predisposed to hotspots
Griddles provide plenty of cooking surface for morning classics like bacon and eggs, as well as evening delicacies like salmon and shrimp kebabs. This three-burner set produces 25,500 BTUs from three independent burners. The cooking area is 316 square inches, which is adequate for three or four persons tailgating or picnicking. Reviewers note the flat surface makes it simple to clean, although they recommend placing it on a level surface to avoid oil spills.
Final Decision
The Char-Broil Classic Series 3-Burner Gas Grill is a fantastic value, with three burners, 360 square inches of cooking surface, and a total heat output of 30,000 BTUs. If you’re searching for a more compact alternative, the Cuisinart Petit Gourmet Portable Gas Grill, which can be used as a tabletop or freestanding device and performed well in our tests, is a good choice.
What to Look for When Buying a Gas Grill
Size
If you just grill on occasion and don’t have enough yard or deck area for a larger barbecue, a tabletop model may be ideal. If you have the space and want to cook outside often, a bigger, more permanent grill may be a better alternative.
Durability
Will you keep your barbecue outside all year or will it have an enclosed storage area? Will you use it every day to cook? Do you intend to upgrade in the next year or so? Is this your primary grill or a backup? Given your requirements, consider how long you want your grill to last.
Area for Cooking
You don’t need a huge cooking surface if you never cook for more than two people. If you entertain often, have a big family, or want to prepare large amounts ahead of time, having a grill with a wide cooking space will be quicker and simpler.
FAQs
What is the best way to utilize a kamado grill?
There is a learning curve, but you’ll soon realize how consistent the temperature inside a kamado grill is. To begin, use natural lump charcoal, which burns more effectively. Fill the grill box with charcoal chunks, starting with the largest. Start the fire by nestling a fire starter brick or two into the charcoal, but not all the way to the bottom. You may also use an electric starter to rapidly light the charcoal. Never, ever use lighter fluid to ignite a kamado grill because it will permeate the ceramic and produce an unpleasant stench.
Make that the bottom intake and top vents are completely open. Allow the grill to reach the proper temperature. To adjust the quantity of air that passes through the grill, use a combination of the top and bottom vents. The more air that enters, the hotter the grill will get. Limit the airflow that enters the bottom and exits the top to cook at a lower temperature. Allow the grill to reach your preferred temperature before lowering it since ceramic maintains heat well. Begin cooking once the temperature has been reached!
Why are kamado grills so costly?
They’re costly because they’re built of thick, heat-resistant ceramic rather than lightweight, low-cost metal. However, due of their sturdy structure, they often survive far longer than a standard grill.
What can a kamado grill cook?
Basically anything! Try sides like French fries and sweet potatoes, vegetables like peppers, portabella mushrooms, and broccoli, vegan black bean burgers, pork tenderloin, or even sweets like grilled cinnamon apples or honey grilled apricots in addition to hotdogs and hamburgers.
Can briquettes, wood, or wood pellets be used in a kamado grill?
For fuel recommendations, see your manufacturer’s instructions (find your model number online if you don’t have the handbook). Natural lump charcoal is often the preferred fuel since it is natural and burns hotter and more effectively than briquettes. You may also add hardwood pieces like oak, pecan, or hickory to enhance the smoky tastes in your cuisine. Most kamado grills may also utilize wood pellets, but check the manufacturer’s instructions first. If so, buy wood pellets labeled for outdoor cooking rather than heating pellets.
