Best Outdoor Grill

Mick

By Mick

| Updated 3 Days Ago

  • Grilling outdoors is a popular activity enjoyed by many. The right grill can make the difference between a perfect barbecue and a frustrating cookout. With countless options available, selecting the best outdoor grill can be daunting. Understanding the types and features of these grills is crucial to making the right choice.

    When choosing an outdoor grill, key factors to consider include the type of fuel it uses—such as charcoal, gas, or electric—each offering different cooking experiences and flavors. Size, ease of use, and portability also play significant roles, especially for those with limited space or who enjoy tailgating. Another factor to weigh is the grill’s durability and construction materials, as these impact both the grill’s longevity and your cooking results.

    We evaluated various outdoor grills by testing them in different scenarios, aiming to find those that combine quality, ease of use, and efficient cooking.

    Best Outdoor Grills

    Below is our full list of the best outdoor grills. Whether you’re planning a backyard barbecue or a family cookout, these grills will meet your needs.

  • Weber 36″ Gas Griddle

    10

    This is a solid choice for anyone looking to elevate their outdoor cooking experience.

    Pros

    • Distributes heat evenly
    • Simple to clean
    • Ample workspace

    Cons

    • Runs quite hot
    • Assembling can be tricky
    • Requires storage space

    Using the Weber 36″ Gas Griddle has been a game-changer for us. Its four-burner system ensures even heat distribution, making it great for cooking a variety of foods. From sizzling bacon to juicy burgers, everything cooks perfectly.

    Cleanup is a breeze thanks to the well-designed grease chute and tray. No more messy spills or splatters. The workspace provided by the side tables is also a fantastic addition, offering a convenient place for prepping and serving.

    One drawback is that the grill gets very hot, even on lower settings, requiring some adjustments while cooking. Additionally, assembly took some effort as we had to bend a few corners to fit it together. Despite these minor issues, the griddle remains a robust and reliable choice for outdoor cooking enthusiasts.

    Sale
    Weber 36" Gas Griddle
    • Scrambled, cheesy eggs with crisp bacon, toasted Italian paninis and juicy smashed burgers with caramelized onions are just the beginning of what you can create on your Weber Griddle.
  • Weber Original Kettle 22-Inch Charcoal Grill

    9.7

    This classic grill is perfect for any grilling enthusiast looking for reliability and excellent temperature control.

    Pros

    • High durability with a porcelain-enameled lid and bowl
    • Easy ash cleanup with One-Touch cleaning system
    • Precise temperature control with dampers

    Cons

    • Assembly can be a bit tricky for some
    • Requires regular cleaning to maintain performance
    • The lid may get hot, so handle with care

    Firing up the Weber Original Kettle brings back the nostalgia of traditional charcoal grilling. With its durable build, we can grill our favorite foods without worrying about rust or peeling paint. The dampers help achieve the perfect cooking temperature, letting us sear steaks or slowly smoke ribs to perfection.

    Using the One-Touch cleaning system after grilling makes cleanup simple. The removable ash catcher makes disposal hassle-free, saving us time and effort. We also appreciate the thoughtful design feature of the lid hook, preventing us from placing the lid on the ground.

    Though the assembly might take some patience, the payoff is well worth it. We found this grill to be a reliable companion for any outdoor cookout, making it easy to enjoy a range of deliciously grilled meals. The Weber Original Kettle is a staple for anyone serious about grilling.

    Sale
    Weber Original Kettle 22-Inch Charcoal Grill
    • Stay true to the modern version of the kettle that started it all—the Original Kettle, invented by Weber’s founder, and loved around the world. Its ultra-durable, porcelain-enameled lid and bowl retain heat, while the damperseasily adjust for precise temperature control. With a One-Touch cleaning system for easy cleanup after a long day of grilling, the Original Kettle will always be the grill built for everyone
  • Char-Broil Patio Bistro TRU-Infrared Electric Grill

    9.5

    A convenient and efficient grill for those looking to avoid the hassle of gas or charcoal.

    Pros

    • Easy to use with a simple plug-in setup
    • Even cooking results with TRU-Infrared technology
    • Compact size perfect for small spaces

    Cons

    • Temperature recovery slow after opening the lid
    • Limited cooking surface area
    • Requires patience and careful monitoring

    Grilling with the Char-Broil Patio Bistro TRU-Infrared Electric Grill has been a straightforward experience. Plugging it in and starting to grill is a game-changer. It doesn’t take long to reach cooking temperatures, making it easy to get dinner on the table.

    We found the TRU-Infrared technology impressive. The grill consistently produced juicy, well-cooked food without annoying flare-ups. It’s a delight to know that the flavor stays locked in while grilling. The porcelain-coated grates are easy to clean and leave beautiful grill marks.

    The size is ideal for small spaces, fitting comfortably on our patio. It easily cooks enough for a small family. However, recovery time is a bit sluggish if you open the lid too often. It’s best to keep the lid closed to maintain the heat.

    Overall, it’s a solid grill for those who prefer a hassle-free barbecue experience without the need for gas or charcoal.

    Sale
    Char-Broil Patio Bistro TRU-Infrared Electric Grill
    • ELECTRIC GRILL: This grill is powered by electricity to give you the convenience of grilling without the hassle of gas or charcoal. It reaches cooking temperatures quickly, delivers high temps and maintains even heat.
  • MFSTUDIO Extra Large Charcoal BBQ Grill

    9.4

    A great choice for large gatherings, this grill’s generous cooking area and adjustable heat control make it a standout option.

    Pros

    • Ample cooking space for big parties
    • Easy-to-clean ash tray
    • Adjustable charcoal tray for precise heat control

    Cons

    • Assembly can be tricky
    • Vents may feel limited
    • Quality of some parts could be improved

    If you’re hosting a big group, this MFSTUDIO grill has plenty of room. The large 794 sq. in. cooking area lets you cook multiple items simultaneously, making it perfect for larger family gatherings or parties. We found the adjustable charcoal tray very handy, allowing us to control the heat easily.

    Cleaning up after grilling is a breeze, thanks to the pull-out ash tray. Though the setup took some time, once it’s up and running, it provides a solid cooking experience. The air dampers enhance air flow, giving you better temperature control, which is essential for grilling.

    On the downside, the vents might not be sufficient for everyone. Also, while it’s mostly well-built, some parts could use better quality materials. Despite these minor issues, the overall performance of the MFSTUDIO Extra Large Charcoal BBQ Grill holds up, making it a valuable addition to any outdoor cooking setup.

    MFSTUDIO Extra Large Charcoal BBQ Grill
    • 【Large Cooking Area】With total 794 sq.in. cooking area, including 505 sq. in. porcelain-enameled iron cooking grates and 289 sq. in. warming rack can services a large party or event for 10-15 people
  • MFSTUDIO 36-Inch Flat Top Grill

    9.3

    A versatile grill that’s great for both large parties and everyday outdoor cooking.

    Pros

    • Easy to clean
    • Quick assembly
    • Non-stick surface

    Cons

    • No temperature control
    • Cooks too hot for some foods
    • Poor return policy

    We found the MFSTUDIO 36-Inch Flat Top Grill to be a reliable addition to our outdoor kitchen. The ceramic-coated griddle surface is non-stick, which means we used less oil and it was also very easy to clean afterwards. This made our cooking process much more enjoyable.

    The setup was straightforward. We were able to get everything ready in a short amount of time, which is always a plus. The grill also has adjustable heat zones, allowing us to cook different foods at the same time without any issues.

    One drawback is that there’s no temperature control. It cooks very hot, which worked for searing meat but wasn’t ideal for delicate items. Returning the product could be a hassle, as the policy isn’t very customer-friendly. Despite this, the grill’s versatility and ease of use make it a worthy investment.

    MFSTUDIO 36-Inch Flat Top Grill
    • NON-STICK CERAMIC GRIDDLE: This flat top grill with 450 sq inches of flat top surface and features an all-new proprietary non-stick armored ceramic cooking surface, promoting a healthier cooking experience with minimal oil required. As an added bonus, the ceramic coating also protects the griddle from scratches and rust, keeping your unit looking better for longer
  • Sophia & William Extra Large Charcoal BBQ Grill

    9.1

    This grill is perfect for large gatherings and anyone looking to elevate their outdoor cooking experience.

    Pros

    • Huge cooking area
    • Adjustable charcoal tray
    • Easy-to-clean design

    Cons

    • Requires assembly
    • Heavy to move
    • Needs regular maintenance

    Using the Sophia & William Extra Large Charcoal BBQ Grill makes grilling for big parties a breeze. The 794 square inches of cooking space can handle all your food, ensuring nobody has to wait too long for their meal. The porcelain-enameled iron grates distribute heat evenly, leading to delicious results every time.

    One of our favorite features is the height-adjustable charcoal tray. We found it simple to raise or lower the charcoal, making it easy to control the temperature without fussing with the grill setup. This grill also has handy dual doors in the front, allowing us to add charcoal without disturbing what’s cooking.

    Cleaning up is straightforward with the push-out ash pan. With that said, its size and weight might make it challenging to move around if needed. Also, while assembly can take some effort, including an installation video helps quite a bit. This grill is a strong contender for anyone serious about their barbecue skills.

    Sale
    Sophia & William Extra Large Charcoal BBQ Grill
    • 【BBQ Grill with Large Cooking Area】Total of 794 square inches cooking area, including 505 sq. in. porcelain-enameled iron cooking grates and 289 sq. in. warming rack that serves to a large parties or events of 10-15 people. Cooking grates and warm rack are made of durable, easy-to-clean porcelain-enameled iron material which cooks evenly and relatively fast
  • Captiva Designs 27 in Flat Top Grill

    9

    This outdoor grill is perfect for anyone looking to elevate their backyard cooking setup.

    Pros

    • Easy to clean ceramic coating
    • Versatile – can be used as a tabletop grill
    • Sturdy build and sleek design

    Cons

    • Heavy and challenging to move alone
    • Assembly might take some time
    • Requires a propane tank, which isn’t included

    We used the Captiva Designs 27 in Flat Top Grill and were impressed by its robust construction and sleek design. The ceramic-coated cast iron pan makes cleanup a breeze, letting us enjoy our meals without worrying about stuck-on food.

    Transforming this grill into a tabletop version was easy, and it fit comfortably on our outdoor counter. Its adaptability makes it great for various outdoor gatherings, whether a small family dinner or an extended BBQ party.

    It’s a bit heavy to move, but once set up, it’s stable and secure thanks to the safe cylinder placement. We appreciated the even heat distribution, which cooked our meals perfectly. Overall, this grill adds both style and functionality to our outdoor cooking experience.

    Sale
    Captiva Designs 27 in Flat Top Grill
    • 𝐂𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐜 𝐂𝐨𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐂𝐚𝐬𝐭 𝐈𝐫𝐨𝐧 𝐏𝐚𝐧: Experience nonstick goodion, ensuring your meals effortlessly slide off for healthier cooking with minimal oil. Effortless cleanup is offered, as the nonstick surface simplifies maintenance, requiring just a quick wipe. Enjoy even heat distribution, crafted without harmful chemicals, promoting a healthier lifestyle. Durable, sleek, and modern redefine your cooking experience with our ceramic coated cast iron pan
  • Sophia & William 27-Inch Flat Top Grill

    8.7

    A great choice for those who love versatile, easy-to-clean outdoor grills.

    Pros

    • Non-stick ceramic surface makes cooking healthier
    • Converts easily to a tabletop griddle
    • Adjustable heat zones for versatile cooking

    Cons

    • Assembly can be time-consuming
    • Gas tank placement can be tricky
    • Does not come with a cover

    The Sophia & William 27-Inch Flat Top Grill offers a large cooking area that is perfect for family gatherings. The non-stick ceramic surface means we can cook with less oil, making our meals healthier and reducing cleanup time. Transforming between a traditional stand mode and a tabletop setup is incredibly simple.

    We love the three adjustable heat zones, which allow us to cook multiple items at different temperatures. This feature makes meal preparation efficient and prevents burning. The grill heats up quickly and maintains a consistent temperature, ensuring evenly cooked food every time.

    One drawback is the assembly process. It took us a while to get everything set up, and the instructions could be clearer. Despite this, the grill’s performance is impressive, and its sturdy build promises durability. Unfortunately, the gas tank placement is awkward, but with a bit of patience, it becomes manageable.

    The Sophia & William grill does not come with a cover, so you might want to purchase one separately to protect it from the elements. Despite these minor issues, this grill is a great addition to our outdoor cooking arsenal.

    Sale
    Sophia & William 27-Inch Flat Top Grill
    • 【Non-stick Srmored Ceramic Griddle】Sophia & William flat top grill with 450 sq inches of flat top surface and features an all-new proprietary non-stick armored ceramic cooking surface, promoting a healthier cooking experience with minimal oil required. As an added bonus, the ceramic coating also protects the griddle from scratches and rust, keeping your unit looking better for longer
  • Captiva Designs 4-Burner Grill

    8.7

    With so many features packed into one grill, the Captiva Designs 4-Burner Grill stands out as a pretty solid purchase for outdoor cooking.

    Pros

    • Large cooking area
    • Easy to clean
    • Ample storage space

    Cons

    • Assembly time
    • Ignition issues reported
    • Bulky size

    The large primary cooking area and secondary warming rack are fantastic for grilling multiple items at once. It’s perfect for BBQ parties where you need to cook a lot of food.

    We found the porcelain-enameled cast iron grates to be excellent for heat distribution. Food cooked evenly, and nothing stuck to the grates, which made cleaning up super easy.

    Storage space is a practical feature if you need somewhere to put grilling utensils or a propane tank. It keeps everything organized and within reach.

    However, setting up the grill took longer than we expected. Be prepared to spend some time on assembly. Also, a few users reported ignition issues, which might require troubleshooting. The grill is also on the bulky side, so ensure you have enough space to accommodate it.

    Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable grill with a large cooking space and convenient features, this could be a good fit for you. The pros definitely outweigh the cons with this model.

    Sale
    Captiva Designs 4-Burner Grill
    • 𝐏𝐨𝐫𝐜𝐞𝐥𝐚𝐢𝐧-𝐄𝐧𝐚𝐦𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐝 𝐂𝐚𝐬𝐭 𝐈𝐫𝐨𝐧 𝐆𝐫𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐆𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬: We have upgraded the main cooking area grates to porcelainenameled cast iron, which combines the advantages of traditional cast iron and enamel grates. These grates are heavyduty, nonstick, rustresistant, and crackresistant. They provide more even heat distribution when used with the four stainless steel burners and enameled flame tamers
  • Captiva Designs 4-Burner Propane Gas BBQ Grill

    8.6

    This grill offers great value for outdoor cooking fans who want a durable and efficient BBQ experience.

    Pros

    • Heats up quickly with four powerful burners
    • Large cooking area perfect for family parties
    • Easy to clean with slide-out grease tray

    Cons

    • Assembly can be time-consuming
    • Heavy to move around
    • Some parts may need extra screws

    We’ve found that the Captiva Designs 4-Burner Propane Gas BBQ Grill link heats up really fast, making it perfect for quick grilling. The large cooking area allows us to prepare meals for large gatherings without breaking a sweat.

    Cleaning up afterwards is a breeze thanks to the slide-out grease tray, which catches all the mess. We appreciate this design as it saves time and effort.

    However, getting it assembled took a bit of time and patience. The heavy build might be an issue if you need to move it around often. Also, keep a few extra screws handy during setup. In spite of these minor hiccups, the grilling experience is excellent.

    Sale
    Captiva Designs 4-Burner Propane Gas BBQ Grill
    • 𝐏𝐨𝐫𝐜𝐞𝐥𝐚𝐢𝐧-𝐄𝐧𝐚𝐦𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐝 𝐂𝐚𝐬𝐭 𝐈𝐫𝐨𝐧 𝐆𝐫𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐆𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬: We upgraded main cooking area grates into porcelainenameled cast iron grates, which combines trodditonal cast iron and enamel grates advantages heavy duty, nonstick, rust resistant and crack resistant. They will bring the cooking area more even heat when worked with the 4 stainless steel burners and enameled flame tamers

Buying Guide

When choosing the best outdoor grill, there are several important factors to consider.

Type of Grill

Grills come in various types such as gas, charcoal, electric, and pellet. Gas grills offer convenience and quick heating. Charcoal grills provide a rich, smoky flavor. Electric grills are great for areas with fire restrictions. Pellet grills use wood pellets for a unique taste.

Size and Cooking Area

Think about how much food you plan to cook at once. A larger cooking area is ideal for big gatherings. Smaller grills are perfect for quick meals and small spaces. Look for the total cooking area in square inches or centimeters.

Heat Output

Measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units), heat output is a key factor. More BTUs mean more heat, but efficiency also matters. Higher BTU doesn’t always mean better performance.

Construction and Durability

Grills made from stainless steel are often more durable and rust-resistant. Check for sturdy construction and high-quality materials. Avoid grills with flimsy parts that may wear out quickly.

Features

Look for features that suit your cooking style:

    • Side Burners: Handy for cooking side dishes.

    • Temperature Gauges: Helps monitor heat levels.

    • Storage Space: Shelves or cabinets provide extra space for grilling tools and ingredients.

    • Rotisserie: Great for roasting meats evenly.

Portability

If you plan to move your grill around, consider one with wheels. Portable grills are ideal for camping or tailgating.

Price

Set a budget and find a grill that offers the best features within that range. Remember, higher prices don’t always guarantee better quality.

Using these tips will help you choose a grill that fits your needs and ensures a great grilling experience.