Best Outdoor Gas Grills
This is a fairly extensive review of the best gas grills for the money…..you can hear the meat sizzle as it hits the metal, the delicious smell wafting up to your nostrils as you flip over all the hunks of barbecuing beef. However, this picturesque and inviting scene is only possible with a great gas grill.
Types of Grills
There are many different types of grills out there that sport all sorts of different burners, grates, and even fuel sources. Traditional charcoal grills require a constant refilling and manipulation of charcoal bricks to keep going, while natural gas needs a direct gas line connection.
Propane gas on the other hand is much simpler – using only a tank you can hook up to the grill of your choice and keep cooking for a long time. When empty, you can just exchange the tank or have it refilled at certified locations.
Natural Gas Grill vs. Propane Grill
This Review on the best gas grills for the money will be split up into 2 parts. Also, we will only be focusing on the two fuel types for barbecue grills. First we’ll discuss and review propane barbecue grills, and then we’ll move onto natural gas grills. While it would be nice to discuss the charcoal and wood grills, it would have become a massive article at that point. Perhaps we’ll do an article for charcoal and wood grills on another occasion.
Part 1 – Propane Grill Buying Guide
When looking at grills there are a plethora of different choices to choose from. Often manufacturers try to muddle the market by using gimmicky terms to impress people. All of this can make buying a grill feel like an ordeal. The goal of this gas barbecue buying guide is to provide you with the foundation to allow you to confidently go forward and purchase the propane grill that is best for you.
Barbecue Features, Qualities & Reviews
The first section will deal with the features and qualities you should consider when in the market for a new grill. Followed by this will be the top 5 best propane grills on the market today, with the next section giving you some upkeep and maintenance tips to keep your machine running for many years to come.
Best Gas Grills For The Money – What to Consider
Grill Size & Burners
There are many extra features today that have been integrated into grills. The first characteristic you should look at is the size of the grill. While a jumbo sized grill with a half dozen burners and multiple racks might look impressive, you have to ask yourself if you really need it. Smaller grills are not only cheaper, but much easier to maintain.
Side Burner & Utility Hooks
If you are going to cook for multiple people and often, take a look at the side burners – these are great for keeping sauces warm and cooking your sides. Also take a look if there are any utility hooks integrated into the machine – these can come in quite handy when you want your utensil fast.
Built-in Thermometer & Igniter
Make sure that you get a grill with a built in thermometer and quick start button too, as these simple additions can make a world of difference.
Stainless Steel Exterior & Insulated Lid
In terms of quality you’re probably going to want to go for a stainless steel exterior. Some machines come with a double coated and insulated lid which lasts longer and holds heat in better.
Cast iron – Porcelain Enameled Grates
In terms of grates, it is highly recommended to get grates that are cast iron and porcelain enameled – these types have been shown to cook the best and last the longest.
Infrared Grill Technology
Other things you should consider is whether or not you want to invest into a bbq with infrared technology – these variants are often pricier but cook better and cleaner than normal propane grills. An infrared grill has an infrared element between the grate and the flame. The element gets intensely hot, and can pour super heat at the food. This infrared technology is perfect for searing food.
Barbecuing Utensils & Extras
Whatever you end up getting just make sure to set some funds aside to purchase any accessories and cleaning tools you might need. Think along the lines of cooking utensils and skillets. But also don’t forget to invest into everything you’ll need to properly maintain your grill – this is metal brushes, cleaning sprays, stainless steel waxes, and grill covers.
Best Propane Gas Grills For The Money
To help with your search, here’s the top 5 propane grills through Amazon. These grills contain everything you need in terms of features and are made with incredible workmanship.
#5 Weber Spirit E310 Liquid Propane Gas Grill
The Weber brand is renowned for its impeccable quality and amazing warranties. The Weber Spirit E310 Propane model is considered an introduction model to the Weber brand, but that doesn’t mean any features were skipped with it!
This propane E310 Weber bbq comes with 3 stainless steel burners that produce 32,000 BTU worth of heat.
The grates cover 424 inches of cooking space and are made from cast-iron.
There is a matching set of porcelain enameled flavorizer bars that ergonomically designed so that when grease drips on them it sizzles – adding more flavor to your food.
Above the grates is a 109 inch rack to keep all your cooked food nice and warm. You can easily get all of this done with the electronic ignition system that starts with a press of a button.
The cast aluminum shelves are foldable to take up less space, and there is a disposable grease tray for easy clean up.
Customers mention that the Propane Spirit E310 grill is perfect every time they use it. Most notable is Weber’s customer service and warranty department – on the rare chance that there is anything wrong with your grill, you can be sure that Weber will provide swift and quality service.
Now, it isn’t the cheapest propane grill out there, but it is a Weber and therefore it definitely does rate on the the list for one of the best gas grills for the money.
To Learn more about the excellent Weber E310 Propane Grill, click here!
#4 Weber Genesis II E310 Liquid Propane Grill
This high performance grill is a step up from the already stupendous Spirit line. The Weber Genesis II E310 sports 3 stainless steel burners and porcelain enameled Flavorizer bars unique to the Weber brand.
Underneath this is the grease management system that efficiently pools all excess grease for easy removal.
The grates are made from cast iron and enameled with porcelain for extra protection – providing a total of 513 sq. in. of cooking area with an additional 156 sq. in. cooking rack that tucks away.
With a turn of a knob you can get the Genesis II E-310 started with the Infinity ignition system.
The side prep table is made from stainless steel and contains a cubby underneath to tuck away your propane tank. Integrated on the side is a tool hook system that is perfect for holding knives, gloves, and spatulas.
Reviewers say that the Genesis E310 grill gets real hot and fast – with some tests putting it at 400 degrees in just a few minutes! Like any Weber product you can be sure when you do need to replace any burners or grates, that the generous warranty will cover it. It’s a real testament to Weber to get 2 of their barbecues in our Top 5 best gas grills for the money review!
For More details on the Weber Genesis E310, click this link!
#3 Char-Broil Signature TRU-Infrared 420 3-Burner Cabinet Liquid Propane Gas Grill
This Char-Broil TRU-Infrared 420 grill comes with an impressive 420 sq. in. of cooking space on cast iron grates coated in porcelain.
Underneath are 3 stainless steel tube burners made for superior temperature control.
What makes this grill stand out though is the TRU-Infrared system. This system is found in the specialized pseudo-grates that are found underneath the cast-iron ones – the tiny holes found in them cause the heat to shoot out. This sears the outside and seals in the flavor.
Also built into the Char-Broil TRU-Infrared 420 is the Surefire Electronic Ignition system which creates a spark with the simple press of a button.
Underneath is a large storage cabinet which is great for holding all sorts of grilling essentials such as tools, sauces, and wood chips.
From our reviews research clearly buyers feel that this definitely is one of the best gas grills for the money, and as a matter of fact, many people have said that the Char-Broil Signature TRU-Infrared 420 is one of the greatest grills they have ever bought – raving how juicy the chicken and steaks come out.
Others have also commented that this grill has particularly less flare ups because of its innovative TRU-Infrared system.2
Learn more about the Char Broil Signature Grill by clicking here…
#2 Napoleon LEX485RSIBPSS-1 with Infrared Side & Rear Burners Propane Gas
This massive Napoleon LEX 485 grill uses state-of-the-art infrared technology to give you healthy and flavorful food every time.
This machine has a total of 6 impeccable burners that produce an overwhelming 74,000 BTU of heat per hour. With over 800 sq. in. of cooking space, you’ll be able to feed a whole army with this!
The exterior is made from a durable stainless steel making it virtually immune to even the harshest conditions.
Underneath the Napoleon LEX 485 are extra large cabinets giving you the storage space you need to hold everything you need to make great food.
Instead of messing with pesky lighter and lighter fluid, this Napoleon 485 grill comes with the Jetfire Ignition System – which gives you fast lighting every time.
Both shelves have full function. One with a built in side burner and the other with an ice-well, so you can enjoy a beverage or three while you’re cooking meat! The other would be great for cooking sauces, or other side dishes to accompany all the meat you’re grilling!
Customers give this grill multiple 5 star reviews – leaving such comments that the build quality is incredibly hearty.
In addition, but some have even said that this grill’s heating system works so well that it warms up in minutes even in below zero weather.
This Napoleon LEX 485RSIBPSS-1 with Infrared Side & Rear Burners is definitely one of the best gas grills for the money and although is not one of the cheapest barbecues out there, is so well made, you have to look at the money for quality.
***Sidenote: I bought the natural gas version. So, if you’d like to see my personal hands on review of the Napoleon Lex 485, just click this sentence!
#1 Monument Grills 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill, Stainless, ClearView Lid, LED Controls, Side & Sear
The tough stainless steel Monument Grills 4-Burner, comes with reinforced aluminum side caps, doors, and shelves.
Each side shelf has a built in burner to keep everything from barbeque sauces to baked beans warm.
Inside the grill is 4 stainless steel burners built with long lasting quality giving a total of 72,000 BTUs of heat.
On the front of the Monument Grills bbq are easy to use control knobs with built in LEDs, allowing you to cook easily even at night.
The porcelain coated cast iron cooking grates cover an enormous 513 sq. in. of cooking area, with an additional 210 sq. in. warming rack.
Underneath is a grease trap that is easily removable for simple cleaning. Down below is a large storage cabinet that great for holding your propane tank and other grilling accessories.
Users have noted how handsome this Monument Grills unit is – the blue LED lights being a nice touch. Others have said that this grill is incredibly easy to assemble and people enjoy the quality.
Best Gas Grills For The Money – Upkeep and Maintenance Guide Propane Grill
When setting up your grill make sure to make safety a priority. This means setting your grill at least 10 feet away from an enclosed space, to give it plenty of breathing room. Once a month you should be checking the propane tank and line for any leaks. A good way to do this is to run some soapy water over them – if any bubbles form you might need to tighten the connection.
Properly maintaining your grill isn’t difficult, but is a constant thing. You need to get into the habit of cleaning your grill after every use. Ideally you want to start brushing your grates as it is in the process of cooling down – not hot mind you, but warm enough that the gunk hasn’t solidified yet.
There are numerous types of spray cleaners that will work well – some are specifically designed to cut grill grease, while a simple mixture of vinegar and water work great as well. If you choose to use oven cleaner be careful – these type of cleaners are especially harsh and can erode the exterior if used improperly.
After the grill has cooled down make sure to protect it from the elements with a grill cover.
If you are a heavy grill user it is recommended to turn the heat to max for 15 minutes at least once a month to burn off any of the built up gunk.
Once to twice a year your going to want to do a deep cleaning – it is recommended to do this in Spring and Autumn. This involves removing all the grates and burner covers, soaking them with specialized cleaner for 15 minutes, and scrubbing them down with a brush or sponge.
Your also going to want to clean off the burners and interior as well as possible. Chances are what will happen is that much of the burnt chunks will fall to the bottom, allowing you to remove the bottom plate to throw it all away.
Propane Grills – Final Thoughts
Whether you are hosting a pool party or just grilling for another, a propane gas grill would be a great addition to your backyard.
If you need a large cooking area with plenty of burners, the impressive Napoleon LEX485RSIBPSS-1 grill is the one for you.
If you want something a little bit smaller but still have that great infrared cooking, then the Charbroil TRU-Infrared will get the job done. The Monument Grill’s 4-Burner Clearview Lid machine also excels in multiple qualities and is probably the most well rounded.
For the highest in quality and craftsmanship though, the Weber brand grills are unmatched.
Each of these propane grills fit into the category of best gas grills for the money, and each for specific reasons which we’ve already covered. However, just remember that you really do get what you pay for.
I Threw Out A Napoleon
On a personal note, I just threw out a propane powered Napoleon grill, that was brand new about 22 years ago. The original burner finally died. It was not a cheap machine 22 years ago (about $1000), but it was worth every cent because it required very little basic maintenance, and no replacement parts were ever required, in 22 years! Can you imagine…!!!??
All grills require a little bit of upkeep, so remember to keep them clean and cover them after every use.
Regardless of your choice, you can rest assured that a properly maintained propane grill will not only last you a long time, but also be much more convenient than the other grilling alternatives. Get those shish kabobs, relish, and buns ready, because an excellent grilling experience is just around the corner!
Part 2 – Natural Gas Grill Buying Guide
Natural Gas Barbecues
Sizzling steaks and kebabs on a grill during a hot summer day is the best. Able to cook all sorts of different foods – a plethora of different vegetables, meats, and fish – grills are versatile cooking machines that can be used by just about anyone.
When purchasing one of these outdoor cookers, there are many different attributes to consider – stainless steel versus cast iron, size against portability, or charcoal and propane.
Few things are a simple bifurcation though, and it turns out in the battle between propane and charcoal there is third often overlooked contender – natural gas.
Natural Gas Grill Advantages
- Cheaper – Natural gas grills have numerous advantages over their charcoal and propane cousins. First is that natural gas is often cheaper – coming out to a third of the price of propane per volume!
- Burns Cleaner – This type of gas also has the advantage of burning much cleaner, resulting in a product that has a much lower carbon footprint.
- Very Convenient – In everyday use though is where the natural gas grill shines – with charcoal grills you have to constantly buy bags of charcoal, with propane you have to get the tanks refilled. Natural gas on the other hand just needs a one time connection and will keep producing indefinitely – or at least until the gas company runs out.
- Market Saturation – Because of all these advantages natural gas grills have started to become more popular – with dozens of different companies now producing their version of these machines. The market has now become saturated with these different types of grills.
What Should I Look Out For
In fact, there are so many that it might seem a little confusing on exactly what to look out for. This guide will give you the knowledge you need to properly assess what the best natural gas grills have, what the best ones out on the market are today, and how to properly maintain your new natural gas grill so you can get many great grilling sessions out of it for years to come!
Natural Gas Grills Things to Consider
Stainless Steel
When in the market for a gas grill it’s best to look out for one with enough toughness – stainless is often the way to go. It will look good for years, in spite of being in the elements most of the time.
Porcelain Coated Grates
Also look out for grills that have a double layered top or come with porcelain coated grates. This is especially important as that extra layer will greatly improve the life of your grill.
Burner Type
From there you want to be mindful of the type of burners there are in the machine – often times local stores will sell basic replacement parts for grills, but bar burners are by far the most plentiful and easiest to replace.
Size of Barbecue
On a more obvious note take a look at what size that you want. Ask yourself the question on how many people you intend on feeding – if it’s just for you and your partner maybe a giant 5 burner grill isn’t for you.
Grilling Accessories
Finally, when considering your budget, you should set aside about 20% of the cost of the grill to buy accessories. This includes things like tongs and knives, but mostly you want to think along the lines of cleaning and upkeep.
Grilling Additions & Gadgets
It is highly recommended to get some sort of specialized cleaner, grill cover, and scrub brush so you can get the most out of your machine. From here there are other things you may want to consider like smoke boxes, wood chips, and different electronic gadgets that can easily measure internal temperature of grilled foods.
Best Natural Gas Grills For The Money
Top 5 Natural Gas Grills – Cross referencing through many different types of natural gas grills, here is a list of some of the best out there today. These grills are of the highest quality and contain a nice balance of features and cooking ability.
#5 – Royal Gourmet Classic Stainless Steel 6-Burner Cabinet Gas Grill with Side Sear Burner
This Royal Gourmet grill has 776 sq. in. of total cooking space broken into two – 586 of it on the primary cooking area with the rest on the secondary warming rack.
To help keep in all the heat this grill comes with a heavy duty stainless steel lid that is reinforced with a double-layer.
To help keep track of your temperature accurately, each grill comes with an easy to read thermometer on the front of the lid.
All 5 burners are made of stainless steel and produce 10,000 BTU’s worth of heat – combined with a 12,000 BTU sear burner to get a total of 71,000 BTU of cooking power. The side burner produces 9,000 BTU and is great for preparing and keeping sauces warm.
The Royal Gourmet Classic Gas Grill can be seamlessly started with the quick start electronic ignition.
To keep your work area clean, there is a metal side shelf and 4 casters underneath the stainless steel doors.
Many have commented that this grill works so great that they don’t even use their oven anymore. Also mentioned is that the stainless steel exterior is easy to clean, along with the removable drip tray located along the bottom of the unit.
You know this grill is sturdy and well made too as it is manufactured in the United States.
A fair statement is that every natural gas grill that’s manufactured in the United States is not going to be the most amazing barbecue available. However, it is safe to say that when coupled with the numerous positive buyer reviews, the higher manufacturing standards in the United States (compared to many parts of Asia), you’re getting a very good natural gas barbecue!
#4 – Dyna-Glo Natural Gas Grill – 4 Burner
The Dyna-Glo Natural Gas Grill is a tremendous outdoor barbecue that comes with a total of 60,000 BTU of cooking power that can easily be turned on with an electronic ignition.
These BTUs are split among 4 stainless steel commercial grade burners and a single side burner, giving you a total of 667 sq. in. of cooking space.
Above these burners are a set of cast iron grates enameled in 7mm worth of heavy gauge – allowing you to cook consistently every time underneath the double layered stainless steel lid.
Below is a cabinet with a tremendous amount of space sitting on 4 heavy duty wheels.
The lid comes with a built in thermometer, and there are five easy to use knobs on the control panel to give you fine tuned control for every burner.
Many people have mentioned that this inexpensive grill has a great set of burners and cooking grates. Others have said that the parts are made with the utmost precision and the unit functions perfectly.
Reviews are very good, but not perfect. The old adage holds true…you get what you pay for. Although, for a light to medium use barbecuer, the Dyna-Glo natural gas grill is a perfect option.
#3 – Mhp Gas Grills Wnk Natural Gas Grill W/ Searmagic Grids On Bolt Down Post
The MHP Gas Grill is a no nonsense barbecue that comes in a heavy duty cast aluminum housing that is immune to rusting and is also lightweight.
Inside are reversible Aluminum SearMagic cooking grids and a durable stainless steel H burner.
To hold onto any plates and cooked food there is the pair of considerable folding side shelves that also come with three hooks a piece – so you can have all of your utensils near at hand.
You can be sure that this Wnk MHP can weather any storm too as it’s tough post can be bolted down. If you do bolt it down as per the manufacturer’s directions, it may even be hurricane proof (within reason).
On the front of the Wnk NHP is a convenient temperature gauge to keep track of how your food is cooking even when the tall lid is closed. Yes,the lid is tall by design. This way you can cook large roasts or even turkeys, without the fear of anything touching the lid.
People who have purchased this MHP gas grill have noted how easy it is to clean and how sturdy it is. Also noted is that the MHP Wnk grill is completely made in the USA – ensuring that it is of the highest craftsmanship. We’re always tickled to learn that the best reviewed products are very commonly made in the United States!
#2 – Weber Spirit E310 Natural Gas Grill
Weber is known for quality, and the Weber Spirit E310 natural gas grill is no exception.
This grill comes with a total of 529 sq. in. of cooking space with porcelain-enameled cast iron grates.
Below this, the three burners produce 32,000 BTU and is covered in specially designed flavorizer bars that adds even more flavor to your delicious meal.
To simplify your cooking process this grill comes with a thermometer and six hooks for all of your different cooking utensils.
Just above the grates is a warming rack to keep your already cooked food, fresh, warm and ready to eat.
For maximum lifespan the Weber E310 has been covered with a porcelain-enameled steel shroud. This shroud is highly resistant against rusting, peeling, and fading.
For ease of hook up to the natural gas supply, the Weber E310 Spirit comes included with a 10-foot flexible hose.
While most of the grease will be absorbed and converted to smoke by the flavorizer bars, the excess drips down into a removable tray for simple clean up.
Many people are blown away by the quality of the Weber brand. This natural gas Weber E310 Spirit is considered entry level for Weber, but by no means disappoints. Customers have remarked that the flavorizer bars result in zero flare ups and even cooking every time.
One of the questions I see a lot is: What are the best gas grills for the money? Invariably, the Weber brand always comes up in the answer.
One way to think of a Weber is this: There’s no low quality Weber grill. A low end Weber barbecue has the quality of a high-end “Other Brand”.
Get all the specs for this Weber Spirit E310 natural gas grill here…
#1 – Napoleon Triumph 410 Natural Gas Grill
Coming in both black and stainless steel, the Napoleon Triumph 410 Natural Gas grill is conquering the natural gas grilling market.
The 4 burners are made of stainless steel a have nearly 45,000 BTU of heat.
The grates are made from a porcelain coated cast iron which ensures a long life and consistent cooking. These grates stretch over a total cooking area of 550 sq. in, or a total of 25 burger capacity!
On the side of the Napoleon Triumph 410 is a burner great for sautéing your mushrooms (while your rib eye steak is grilling), or keeping sauces and baked beans warm.
The side shelves are foldable for your convenience – allowing you to use the area when you need it. Also available is integrated holders for all of your utensils so you can grab them fast.
Underneath the cooking area are two large stainless steel doors with considerable space to keep whatever you need.
As far as the focus of our natural gas grill buying guide, which is to find the best gas grills for the money, the Napoleon 410 fits the profile to a T. In fact, for most of us, this is the #1 perfect grilling machine (unless you get into the next price level…spending $thousand$.
Reviewers have noted that this grill is easy to assemble and have commented on the little touches – like the built in bottle opener. The grill is entirely stainless, but the lid comes covered in a black porcelain so it lasts even longer and may have a bit more insulation value, making the Napoleon Triumph 410 a bit more efficient, and giving this machine a considerable lifespan.
Best Gas Grills For The Money – Upkeep and Maintenance Guide For a Natural Gas Grill
Make sure when you are setting up your grill to have it at least 10 feet away from the house and other flammable areas. While you can have overhangs over the grill, just make sure it has open spaces on either side of it.
When lighting your grill always keep the lid open – since you’re using natural gas you shouldn’t ever use other substitutes like lighter fluid, and especially not gasoline.
After you’ve set up your new grill, there are few things you can do to make sure you get the longest life out of it…
- Every time you cook make sure to use some sort of oil or cooking spray – this ensures not only that your food doesn’t stick, but also works as a protective layer against the elements.
- After grilling, make sure to clean the grates when they are slightly warm. You can use a wire brush or even heavy duty aluminum foil to scrape off any of the burnt on food.
- After the grill cools down you need to wipe everything down with a rag or paper towel – this will absorb any grease or salt stuck to the machine.
- The best thing you can do for your grill though is ensuring that it is well protected from the elements. You can do this by keeping it under an overhang or putting a water-repellant grill cover over it.
- While grill maintenance is a constant chore, you should do a deep cleaning at least once a year. Certified grill cleaners work best, but a simple vinegar and water solution can do wonders as well. Soak the inside of the grill with the solution of your choice and let it stay for one hour – this helps break up any gunked on particles and easing up any sweat in cleaning.
- To get rid of any rust spots you should use a fine steel-wool pad to rub them out.
Natural Gas Grills – Final Thoughts
If you are the type of person who likes to cook for a lot of people, look no further than the Royal Gourmet grill – this monster has huge rack space and six separate burners.
For some of the highest quality and best warranties you can’t go wrong with the Weber E310 Spirit.
Both the Napoleon Triumph 410 and MHP gas grills are of remarkable quality too, and it is the Dyna-Glo Natural Gas grill that has the most well rounded features, balanced with the pricing.
Whatever grill you get make sure to take a little bit of time maintaining it – just a few minutes after each session will greatly improve the lifespan of your grill.
When grilling, make sure to always err on the side of caution – safety should always take top priority. Whether you are cooking rib eye steaks, bratwurst or vegetable shish kabobs, a natural gas grill will do wonders for you as they are easier to maintain, cheaper on fuel, and better for the environment!
Hopefully, we’ve answered the question of which are the best gas grills for the money…we think it’s pretty clear, and when you weigh out features, quality, size and pricing, the answer becomes simple. Really any one of the gas grills we reviewed fits the bill. It’s just dependent on your requirements and lifestyle.
Bon Apetit, and let us know which of these top gas grills you end up buying!
Just a footnote here…if you enjoy cooking outside, be sure to check out our new guide to outdoor pizza ovens.