Grilling is a popular cooking method that has been around for centuries. It is a great way to cook food while enjoying the outdoors and spending time with family and friends. Gas grills have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their convenience, ease of use, and consistent heat output. They are a great option for those who want to enjoy the taste of grilled food without the hassle of charcoal or wood.
If you are in the market for a gas grill, there are a few things you should consider before making a purchase. The first is the size of the grill. You want to make sure that the grill is large enough to accommodate the amount of food you plan to cook. The second is the quality of the materials used to make the grill. Look for a grill that is made of high-quality materials that will last for years to come. Finally, consider the price of the grill. Gas grills can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars, so it’s important to find one that fits within your budget.
In this article, we spent hours researching and testing gas grills to identify the best options under a certain price point. We looked at a variety of factors, including size, material quality, and price, to find the top gas grills that offer great value for money. Whether you’re a seasoned griller or just starting out, our list has something for everyone.
Best Gas Grills Under $500
We understand that finding the perfect gas grill can be quite a daunting task, especially if you’re on a budget. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best gas grills under $500 that are sure to meet your needs without breaking the bank. Our team has extensively researched and tested various gas grills to ensure that the ones we recommend are of high quality, durable, and offer great value for money. So without further ado, here are our top picks for the best gas grills under $500.
American Gourmet by Char-Broil Classic Series Convective 2-Burner Propane Stainless Steel Gas Grill – 463672717
If you’re looking for a compact gas grill that delivers big flavor, the American Gourmet Classic 2-Burner Gas Grill by Char-Broil is a great option.
Pros
- Powered by liquid propane gas, this grill runs on a 20-pound tank, not included. It reaches cooking temperatures quickly, delivers high temps and maintains even heat.
- Grill up to 8 burgers, 4 chicken breasts or 2 steaks on the 280-square-inch grate.
- Two large side shelves provide ample space to set plates, tools, sauces and rubs while you grill.
Cons
- The cart is designed with an integrated rack that holds the propane tank in place, which can make it challenging to move the grill around.
- The porcelain-coated wire grates are lightweight and easy to clean, but they may not hold up as well as cast iron grates over time.
- The grill is compact, which makes it great for small spaces, but may not be ideal for large gatherings or cooking for more than a few people at a time.
We were impressed by how quickly this grill heats up and how evenly it maintains heat. The porcelain-coated wire grates are easy to clean, and the two large side shelves provide ample space to set plates, tools, sauces and rubs while you grill. The push-button ignition ensures reliable starts every time, and the control knobs raise and lower the flame for each burner.
One downside is that the cart is designed with an integrated rack that holds the propane tank in place, which can make it challenging to move the grill around. Additionally, the porcelain-coated wire grates are lightweight and easy to clean, but they may not hold up as well as cast iron grates over time. Finally, while the grill is compact and great for small spaces, it may not be ideal for large gatherings or cooking for more than a few people at a time.
Overall, if you’re looking for a compact gas grill that delivers big flavor, the American Gourmet Classic 2-Burner Gas Grill by Char-Broil is a great option.
MASTER COOK 3 Burner BBQ Propane Gas Grill
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly gas grill that is perfect for small outdoor spaces, the MASTER COOK 3 Burner BBQ Propane Gas Grill is a great option.
Pros
- The stainless steel burners are durable and provide even heat distribution.
- The foldable shelves make it easy to store the grill when not in use.
- The integrated piezoelectric ignition system allows for quick and easy start-up.
Cons
- The cooking area is on the smaller side, which may not be ideal for larger families or gatherings.
- The grill is made of painted aluminum, which may not be as durable as other materials.
- Some users have reported difficulty with assembly.
We recently purchased the MASTER COOK 3 Burner BBQ Propane Gas Grill and have been impressed with its performance. The stainless steel burners provide even heat distribution, which makes it easy to cook a variety of foods. The foldable shelves are a nice touch and make it easy to store the grill when it’s not in use.
However, the cooking area is on the smaller side, which may not be ideal for larger families or gatherings. Additionally, the grill is made of painted aluminum, which may not be as durable as other materials. We also found assembly to be a bit challenging, but we were able to get it put together in a reasonable amount of time.
Overall, we think the MASTER COOK 3 Burner BBQ Propane Gas Grill is a solid choice for those on a budget or with limited outdoor space. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of more expensive models, it gets the job done and is a great value for the price.
Charbroil® Classic Series™ Convective 2-Burner with Side Burner Propane Gas Stainless Steel Grill
« Best Propane Smokers: Top Picks for Delicious BBQ
Best Small Gas Grills for Balcony Living »
If you’re looking for an affordable gas grill that delivers big flavor, the Charbroil® Classic Series™2-Burner Gas Grill is a great option to consider. With its compact design and powerful cooking capabilities, this grill can easily handle everything from burgers and hot dogs to grilled chicken and even wings.
Pros
- The grill heats up quickly and delivers high temperatures, making it easy to cook a variety of foods.
- The porcelain-coated wire grates offer fast warm-up and heat recovery time, and are easy to lift when removing to clean.
- The side burner is a great feature that lets you keep your sides and sauces warm while you grill.
Cons
- Assembly can be a bit tedious, taking several hours to complete.
- The grill is on the smaller side, so it may not be the best option for larger gatherings or events.
- The instructions for assembly could be clearer and more detailed.
Overall, we think the Charbroil® Classic Series™2-Burner Gas Grill is a solid choice for anyone looking for an affordable and reliable gas grill. It heats up quickly, delivers high temperatures, and comes with a variety of useful features like a side burner and a large side shelf. While assembly can be a bit of a hassle, the end result is definitely worth it. If you’re in the market for a new gas grill, this one is definitely worth considering.
Cuisinart CGG-180 Petit Gourmet Portable Gas Grill with VersaStand
If you’re looking for a portable gas grill that’s easy to set up and use, the Cuisinart CGG-180 Petit Gourmet Portable Gas Grill with VersaStand might be a great option for you.
Pros
- The grill is very easy to set up and use, and it doesn’t require any tools or matches.
- It’s small and portable, so you can take it with you wherever you go.
- The porcelain enameled cooking grate provides a large cooking surface that’s big enough to accommodate up to 8 hamburgers at a time.
Cons
- The legs of the grill aren’t as sturdy as they could be, which can make the grill a bit wobbly.
- The included drip tray can be difficult to clean, and it can be hard to remove if it gets stuck.
- The grill only has one burner, which can make it difficult to cook multiple items at once.
Overall, we think the Cuisinart CGG-180 Petit Gourmet Portable Gas Grill with VersaStand is a great option for anyone who wants a portable grill that’s easy to use and provides a decent amount of cooking space. While the legs could be sturdier and the drip tray can be difficult to clean, these are minor issues that don’t detract from the overall quality of the grill. If you’re looking for a reliable and easy-to-use portable gas grill, this one is definitely worth considering.
Megamaster 3-Burner Propane Gas Grill
If you’re looking for a powerful, versatile, and well-priced gas grill, the Megamaster 3-Burner Propane Gas Grill is definitely worth considering. With its durable high-grade stainless steel main burner and heavy-duty cast iron cooking grid, this grill provides a cooking power of 30,000 total BTUs with strong, even, and consistent heat.
Pros
- The grill features ultra-durable porcelain wire cooking grids and a handy warming rack to keep your buns toasty and help slow cook your side dishes.
- The convenient foldable shelves help with prepping and serving, and the two durable wheels help you to effortlessly steer your grill.
- The stainless steel control panel with two large easy-to-transport wheels makes operating and cleaning your grill easy.
Cons
- Assembly is required, which may be a downside for some buyers.
- The cooking surface of 434 Sq. in. may not be sufficient for larger gatherings.
- The lighting feature can be somewhat unreliable, requiring you to light a match to get the fire going on each of the three burners.
Overall, the Megamaster 3-Burner Propane Gas Grill is a great return on investment. It’s perfect for outdoor cooking, camping, patio, and garden barbecue grilling. So, if you’re moving up in life and into a new apartment, this grill is the perfect fit for your lifestyle and balcony.
Unovivy 3-Burner Propane Gas BBQ Grill
If you’re looking for an affordable gas grill that can cook up a storm, the Unovivy 3-Burner Propane Gas BBQ Grill might be the one for you.
Pros
- The spacious cooking area and warming rack make it perfect for BBQ parties or everyday family BBQs.
- The stainless steel burners generate a total of 25,650 BTU, giving you high to low temperature control for succulent delicacy.
- The stainless steel flame domesticator distributes heat evenly to every inch of the cooking grate, ensuring your food is cooked to perfection.
Cons
- Assembly can be a bit of a hassle, and some users have reported missing nuts in the package.
- The wheels are a bit flimsy and may not be suitable for rough terrain.
- The warranty only lasts for 3 months, which may not be enough time to fully evaluate the product.
We were impressed with the Unovivy 3-Burner Propane Gas BBQ Grill’s performance during our testing. The spacious cooking area and warming rack were perfect for our backyard BBQ party, and the stainless steel burners gave us precise temperature control for our meats and veggies. The even heat distribution made sure everything was cooked to perfection, and the lid-mounted thermometer was a nice touch.
Assembly was a bit of a hassle, and we did have to spend some time looking for missing nuts in the package. The wheels were also a bit flimsy, and we wouldn’t recommend taking this grill on rough terrain. However, for the price, we think this is a solid choice for anyone looking for an affordable gas grill.
Overall, we would recommend the Unovivy 3-Burner Propane Gas BBQ Grill to anyone looking for a budget-friendly option that can still deliver great results. Just be prepared to spend some time putting it together and be careful when moving it around.
Monument Grills Larger 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill Stainless Steel Heavy-Duty Cabinet Style with LED Controls & Side Burner Silver
If you’re in the market for a high-quality gas grill that delivers great value for your money, Monument Grills Larger 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill is definitely worth considering. Here are some pros and cons to help you make an informed decision:
Pros
- With a total cooking area of 683 square inches, this grill offers plenty of space to cook for a crowd. The 473 square inches of primary cooking area and 210 square inches of warming rack area make it easy to cook multiple items at once.
- The 60,000 BTUs cooking power is delivered by four main burners and one side burner, ensuring that your food is cooked evenly and efficiently.
- The LED control knobs and lights add a touch of ambiance to your outdoor cooking experience, making it easy to grill even when it’s dark outside.
Cons
- Assembly can be time-consuming and challenging, so make sure to set aside enough time to put it together.
- The grill is not weather-resistant, so you’ll need to take care to protect it from the elements.
- Some parts may be damaged during transit, so make sure to check the grill thoroughly when it arrives and contact the manufacturer if there are any issues.
Overall, the Monument Grills Larger 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill is a great choice for those who want a high-quality grill that delivers great value for their money. With a large cooking area, powerful burners, and convenient LED controls, it’s sure to be a hit at your next backyard barbecue.
Cuisinart CGG-240 All Foods, 27.3″ L x 38″ W x 23.5″ H, Roll-Away Gas Grill, Stainless Steel
If you’re in the market for a portable gas grill that doesn’t skimp on size or features, the Cuisinart CGG-240 All Foods Roll-Away Gas Grill is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The built-in stand makes it easy to take anywhere, and the compact measurements make setup and transport a breeze.
- The 240-square-inch cast-iron grill surface and double-wall stainless steel cover distribute heat evenly to give outstanding results.
- The 15,000 BTU stainless steel loop burner, panel, and porcelain-enameled cast iron cooking grate allow for precise temperature control and exceptional cooking performance.
Cons
- The assembly instructions could be clearer, and putting the grill on the stand can be a bit of a challenge.
- The folding stainless steel side shelves are a handy feature, but they can be a bit flimsy and may not hold up to heavy use.
- While the included drip tray makes for easy cleanup, some users have reported that it can be difficult to remove and empty.
We recently had the opportunity to test out the Cuisinart CGG-240 All Foods Roll-Away Gas Grill, and we were impressed by its performance and versatility. The built-in stand makes it easy to take with you on the go, whether you’re heading to a tailgate party, camping trip, or just grilling on your balcony or patio.
Despite its compact size, the 240-square-inch cast-iron grill surface provided plenty of room to cook up a variety of foods, from burgers and hot dogs to vegetables and even pizza. The double-wall stainless steel cover helped to distribute heat evenly, resulting in perfectly cooked food every time.
We also appreciated the precise temperature control offered by the 15,000 BTU stainless steel loop burner, panel, and porcelain-enameled cast iron cooking grate. The Twist Start electric ignition made it easy to get the grill fired up, and the signature temperature gauge allowed us to monitor the heat level with ease.
While we did find the assembly instructions to be a bit confusing at times, we were able to get the grill put together relatively quickly. The folding stainless steel side shelves were a handy feature, but we did notice that they felt a bit flimsy and may not hold up to heavy use over time.
Overall, we think that the Cuisinart CGG-240 All Foods Roll-Away Gas Grill is a great choice for anyone in need of a portable grill that doesn’t sacrifice performance or features. With its compact size, precise temperature control, and durable construction, it’s sure to be a reliable and versatile addition to any outdoor cooking setup.
Buying Guide
When it comes to buying a gas grill, there are a few key features to consider to ensure you get the best product for your needs. Here are some important factors to keep in mind:
Cooking Area
The cooking area is an important consideration when choosing a gas grill. It determines how much food you can cook at once and how many people you can serve. Generally, a cooking area of 400-500 square inches is sufficient for most families, but if you plan on hosting large gatherings, you may want to consider a larger cooking area.
Burners
The number and type of burners are also important considerations. More burners mean more control over the heat and the ability to cook different foods at different temperatures. Stainless steel burners are the most durable and efficient, while cast iron burners are less expensive but may not last as long.
BTUs
BTUs, or British Thermal Units, are a measure of the heat output of a gas grill. While high BTUs may seem impressive, it’s important to remember that they don’t necessarily equate to better cooking performance. Look for a grill with a balanced BTU output that matches the size of the cooking area.
Construction
The construction of the gas grill is also an important consideration. Look for a grill made of high-quality materials, such as stainless steel, that will withstand the elements and last for years. A grill with a sturdy frame and solid construction will also provide more stability and safety.
Additional Features
Finally, consider any additional features that may be important to you, such as side burners, rotisserie kits, built-in thermometers, and storage space. While these features may not be essential, they can add to the versatility and convenience of your gas grill.
By considering these key features, you can choose the best gas grill for your needs and enjoy delicious outdoor cooking for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What features should I look for in a gas grill under $500?
When shopping for a gas grill under $500, look for features such as a durable construction, good heat output, and a large cooking surface. You may also want to consider features such as a built-in thermometer, side burners, and a warming rack.
How do I choose a reliable gas grill within a $300 budget?
When shopping for a gas grill within a $300 budget, look for a model with a sturdy construction, good heat output, and a decent-sized cooking surface. You may also want to consider features such as a built-in thermometer and side shelves for added convenience.
What are the top-rated gas grills available for under $1000?
There are many great gas grills available for under $1000. Look for models with features such as a durable construction, high heat output, and a large cooking surface. You may also want to consider features such as a built-in thermometer, side burners, and a warming rack.
Which compact gas grills offer the best value for small spaces?
When shopping for a compact gas grill, look for models with a durable construction, good heat output, and a decent-sized cooking surface. You may also want to consider features such as a built-in thermometer and side shelves for added convenience. Some great compact gas grill options include the Weber Q1200 and the Coleman RoadTrip 285.
What are the longest-lasting gas grill brands on the market?
Some of the longest-lasting gas grill brands on the market include Weber, Broil King, and Napoleon. These brands are known for their durable construction and high-quality materials, which can help ensure that your grill lasts for many years to come.
What are the benefits of choosing a Weber gas grill?
Weber gas grills are known for their durable construction, high-quality materials, and excellent performance. They also offer a range of features, including built-in thermometers, side burners, and warming racks. Additionally, Weber has a reputation for excellent customer service and support, making them a great choice for anyone in the market for a new gas grill.