Gas grills are one of the most popular backyard cooking appliances thanks to their convenience, versatility, and delicious results. This comprehensive guide explores the ins and outs of gas grills to help you become a master griller.
1. Types of Gas Grills
There are several main types of gas grills to choose from:
Basic Gas Grills
Basic gas grills are affordable, no-frills options perfect for casual grilling. They provide convenience without expensive bells and whistles. These simple propane grills commonly have two or three burners and 300-500 square inches of cooking space. While they lack some advanced features, basic gas grills can still deliver juicy burgers and dogs. Our guide reviews top rated basic grills under $200.
2-Burner Gas Grills
Two burner gas grills offer a nicely compact grilling station. With their smaller footprint, 2-burner models are ideal for patios, balconies, and smaller families. They provide plenty of cooking power for most households. Our buying guide explores the best 2-burner gas grills across all price points, from budget-friendly picks under $300 to high-end professional models.
3-Burner Gas Grills
Three burner gas grills deliver an excellent balance of cooking versatility and value. That’s why 3-burners remain one of the most popular sizes. With ample 500-650 square inch cooking areas and multiple heat zones, these grills can handle full meals for 4+ people. Our guide covers top rated mid-range 3-burner gas grills under $1000.
Infrared Grills
Infrared grills utilize intense infrared heat for superior searing capabilities. The radiant heat helps lock in juices. Infrared models allow you to achieve restaurant-quality results. Our buying guide explains how infrared grilling works and provides recommended models across price points.
Small Gas Grills
Small gas grills take up little patio or balcony space while still offering ample cooking power. Ranging from 300-500 square inches, these compact grills are perfect for RVing, tailgating, apartments, and smaller households. We cover the best rated portable and tabletop gas grills.
High-End Gas Grills
Premium gas grills are packed with advanced features and top-tier build quality. From integrated sear stations to hybrid fuel options, these grills provide the ultimate backyard cooking performance. If budget isn’t a concern, upgrade your BBQ game with one of the high-end grills in our buying guide.
Built In Gas Grills
Built in gas grills are sophisticated grilling stations designed for custom outdoor kitchens. Ranging from 30 to 60+ inches, these substantial units offer plenty of space to cook full meals. Our guide explores awesome built-in gas grills for taking your backyard cooking capabilities to the next level.
2. Popular Gas Grill Brand Comparisons
When it comes to gas grills, a few major brands stand out. We compare the most popular names in depth:
Nexgrill vs. Weber Grills
Nexgrill provides affordable grills at big box stores, while Weber is the premium American grilling icon. We contrast these two popular brands across criteria like build quality, features, and warranty. If you’re debating between a budget Nexgrill or splurging on a Weber, this guide provides an insightful comparison.
Weber Spirit vs. Genesis Grills
Weber’s Spirit line provides mid-range grilling at a reasonable price point. The high-end Genesis series steps up the quality and capabilities. We spotlight key differences between these two popular Weber lines to help you decide which is right for your needs and budget.
Weber Genesis vs. Summit Grills
How do Weber’s premium Genesis and Summit grills stack up? We compare the brand’s high-end lines on performance, features, and construction. If you love cooking and want the best backyard grill money can buy, this guide helps illuminate the Weber Genesis vs Summit debate.
Napoleon vs. Weber Brand Comparison
The iconic American company Weber faces stiff competition from Napoleon, a fast-growing Canadian grill brand. We stack up these two industry leaders across criteria from durability to warranty coverage. If you’re having trouble choosing between Napoleon and Weber, this review provides detailed insight.
Weber Q1000 vs Q1200
We compare Weber’s two most popular portable gas grills on size, power, portability, and other key factors.
Dyna Glo vs Nexgrill
We contrast performance, durability, and ease of use between these two popular budget grill brands.
Weber Spirit E-210 vs E-310 Review
The Weber Spirit II E-310 is one of the brand’s best-selling mid-range grills, and for good reason. With exceptional performance and quality, this versatile 3-burner propane grill can handle backyard BBQ for years. Our Weber E-310 review covers specs, features, real world use, and comparison to the entry-level Spirit II E-210.
3. Gas Grill Reviews
We provide hands-on reviews of the most popular gas grill models:
Weber Q 1200 Portable Grill Review
Weber’s Q 1200 is the brand’s most popular portable gas grill, renowned for its convenient size and excellent cooking capabilities. We put this tabletop 2-burner to the test in our hands-on review, covering build quality, burner output, ease of use, portability, and how it stacks up to competitor’s models.
Napoleon Rogue 425 Propane Grill Review
With advanced infrared rear burners and an ample 625 square-inch cooking surface, Napoleon’s Rogue 425 freestanding grill is packed with features. Our review analyzes real world performance for searing, temperature control, maintenance, durability, and value. We determine if this model delivers serious grilling proficiency worthy of the price tag.
Napoleon Prestige Pro 825 Built-In Grill Review
The Napoleon Prestige Pro 825 is the Canadian company’s flagship built-in grill, commanding premium pricing. Our review takes an in-depth look at the performance and construction quality of this highly-rated 4-burner 60″ grill. We assess if the Pro 825 truly earns its “prestige” moniker.
4. Reviews of High-End Gas Grill Brands
We also provide brand overviews and reviews focused on premium high-end grills:
Alfresco Grills
Alfresco builds high-end grills designed to be durable centerpieces of outdoor kitchens. But are they worth the premium price? Our review analyzes the construction, capabilities, and overall value of top Alfresco gas grills to determine if they live up to the hype.
Coyote Grills
Coyote has gained a following for their feature-loaded luxury grills handcrafted in the USA. We review the most popular freestanding and built-in Coyote models to provide insight on real world performance, quality, and cost.
Napoleon Grill Reviews
Recognized for high quality and innovative features, we review Napoleon’s lineup of affordably-priced grills.
Mont Alpi Grill Reviews
Handcrafted in Italy, we examine whether Mont Alpi’s luxury built-in grills are worth their astronomical prices.
6. Gas Grill Buying Guides
We make it easy to choose the best gas grill at any budget level:
Best Gas Grills Under $200
For budget buyers, our guide explores top rated basic gas grills available under $200. With minimal investment, these wallet-friendly grills allow you to enjoy juicy BBQ all season long.
Best Gas Grills Under $500
Stretch your budget to $500 and compelling mid-range grills with more power and features become available. We cover 5-star rated picks that provide excellent value and performance.
Best Gas Grills Under $1000
In the $1000 price range, you can invest in a serious multi-burner gas grill built to last. Our guide outlines exceptional models from Weber, Napoleon, and other top brands with all the bells and whistles.
Best Gas Grills Under $2000
Ready to spend lavishly for premium performance? Up to $2000 buys outstanding high-end gas grills engineered to cook restaurant-worthy meals. We help identify great investments at this tier.
Delta Heat Grill Reviews
Delta Heat offers high-end marine grade stainless steel grills designed for oceanfront longevity. We review top models.
Lion Premium Grills Review
Known for innovative smoking features, we examine Lion Premium Grills to see if they live up to their reputation.
Cal Flame Grill Reviews
As a popular built-in grill brand, we review whether Cal Flame grills are worth the significant price tag.
Viking Grill Reviews
We examine the ultra-premium quality and high cost of Viking’s pro-style built-in grills designed as centerpieces.
We also made it easy to look over a few of our favorite high end grills.
7. Helpful Gas Grilling Techniques
Take your BBQ skills to the next level using specialty gas grill techniques:
Two-Zone Grilling
Maximize versatility by setting up distinct direct and indirect cooking zones. Sear over higher direct heat before moving food to cooler indirect areas.
Smoke Roasting
Add wood chips or smoker boxes to gas grills for extra smoke infusion. Get delicious BBQ flavor without needing a dedicated smoker.
Low and Slow BBQ
While challenging, you can absolutely achieve succulent low and slow barbecue on a gas grill with indirect heat and strategic temperature control.
27 Ideas To Cook On The Grill
Expand your grilling horizons with recipes for pizza, salmon, ribs, vegetables, fruit, and more unexpected foods you can cook over the flames.
Best Grills For Beginners
Starting out grilling? We recommend ideal starter gas and charcoal grills that are easy to use and provide great results.
8. Best Gas Grills by Type
Browse top rated options across gas grill categories:
Portable Grills
Portable gas grills like Weber Q are perfect for camping, tailgating, and travel. We review lightweight grills that can go anywhere.
9. Specialty Gas Grills
Advanced backyard chefs should also consider specialty gas grilling equipment:
Flat Top Griddles
We have quite a few posts that cover Flat top griddles. These flat cooking surfaces get screaming hot and cook all the good stuff.
Smokers
Outfit your gas grill with a smoker box to infuse barbecue flavors. You can also buy a dedicated gas smoker for the ultimate BBQ.
Pizza Ovens
Make artisanal pizzas right in your yard with a specialized outdoor pizza oven. These ovens can hit 700+ degrees for authentic pizza recipes.
10. Helpful Gas Grill Tips and FAQs
New to gas grilling? Get answers to common questions:
Grilling in Bad Weather
Don’t let rain, wind, or cold stop the BBQ. We provide tips for successfully grilling in inclement weather including storms, high altitude, and winter.
Proper Clearance Distances
For safety, follow minimum clearance guidelines between your grill and walls, fences, trees, and other structures. We explain proper distances.
Grilling Times for Perfect Doneness
Use our handy grilling time charts for hamburgers, hot dogs, chicken, ribs, and other meats to dial in the ideal doneness from rare to well-done.
Why You Should Always Preheat
Preheating is critical for even cooking and proper sear. We explain why you should always preheat your gas grill before BBQing.
Propane Safety Tips
Propane makes grilling convenient but also introduces risk if mishandled. Learn essential safety protocols for transporting, storing, and connecting propane tanks.
Are Weber Grills Worth the Money?
Weigh whether paying a premium for Weber’s popularity, quality, and warranty is worth the significant investment.
Why Are Built-In Grills So Expensive?
Understand what drives the high prices of built-in grills, from intensive construction to long-term durability.
How Do You Clean Porcelain Grill Grates?
Follow our guide for properly cleaning porcelain coated grill grates without damaging the delicate surface.
Should I Cover My Grill?
Keep your grill protected from weather and debris with a tailored cover. We explain the pros and cons.
Under Grilling Tips:
How to Clean a Rusty Grill
Restore and protect your grill from rust damage using a wire brush, rust remover spray, and high-temperature paint.
11. Closing
With this comprehensive guide, you now have all the information you need to find the perfect gas grill for your cooking needs. From budget-friendly picks to high-end built-in units, there are so many excellent gas grilling options for creating mouthwatering BBQs in your own backyard. Use the tips, comparisons and reviews outlined here to confidently choose a grill that fits your space, cooking preferences and budget. Then get ready to enjoy juicy, smoky, delicious food all summer long. The endless possibilities of gas grilling await. Light up the flames and let your grilling mastery commence!