Napoleon Grills has firmly established itself as one of the premier names in the world of outdoor cooking. With a lineup that ranges from high-end luxury models to feature-rich yet budget-friendly options, they’ve earned a loyal following. Whether you’re grilling burgers for a weeknight dinner or searing tomahawk steaks for a summer bash, there’s likely a Napoleon grill tailored to your needs. Our Napoleon Grill reviews will break down everything there is to know—from features and model comparisons to user feedback, care tips, and beyond.
The Legacy and Reputation of Napoleon
Napoleon Grills originated in Canada in 1976 and quickly evolved from a steel fabrication company to a global brand known for its cutting-edge barbecue technology. Their mission? Combine innovation, performance, and aesthetic appeal in every product. Today, they’re widely recognized for delivering grills that stand up to harsh climates while offering precision heat control and sleek design.
Napoleon’s commitment to quality has earned it a spot next to other industry heavyweights like Weber, with many grillers even preferring Napoleon for specific features like infrared burners and the proprietary WAVE cooking grids.
Standout Features of Napoleon Grills
Napoleon’s reputation isn’t built on flash alone. Their grills offer a wide variety of thoughtfully designed features that enhance the grilling experience:
- WAVE™ Cooking Grids: These iconic stainless steel or cast iron grates are uniquely wave-shaped to provide even heat distribution and prevent small food items from falling through.
- SIZZLE ZONE™ Infrared Burners: Reaching temperatures up to 1800°F, these burners are perfect for high-heat searing, locking in juices with a beautiful crust.
- JETFIRE™ Ignition System: Lights each burner individually with a reliable burst of flame.
- Backlit Control Knobs: Available in the Prestige PRO series, these knobs illuminate in multiple colors, making nighttime grilling safer and more stylish.
- Built-in Smoker Trays: On select models, a smoker tray adds smoky flavor without needing a dedicated smoker.
Each of these features contributes to why Napoleon is not just a grill—it’s an outdoor cooking system.
A Breakdown of Napoleon’s Grill Series
Napoleon has a deep product lineup, and each series is designed to meet a different type of griller’s needs. Here’s what you need to know about the most popular lines:
Prestige PRO Series
This is Napoleon’s top-of-the-line luxury series. The PRO models are built from commercial-grade stainless steel and include bells and whistles like integrated rotisseries, pull-out ice/marinade buckets, and dual-level sear plates. These are statement pieces meant for serious outdoor kitchens. Check out our in-depth review of the Napoleon Prestige Pro 825.
With over 1,200 sq. in. of total cooking area along with 123,000 BTUs heat output across 8 burners, this free standing grill packs a punch.
Prestige Series
A step down in price but not in performance. The Napoleon Prestige series retains stainless steel construction, infrared rear burners, and a large grilling area. You’ll find the same WAVE grids and JETFIRE ignition, making this line one of the best values in mid-to-high-end grills.
Rogue Series
Designed with versatility in mind, the Rogue series offers features like folding side shelves and optional infrared side burners, making them a great choice for small patios or more budget-conscious buyers. The Rogue XT and SE models provide a great entry point into premium grilling.
Freestyle Series
Compact and affordable, the Freestyle series is ideal for new grillers or those with limited space. Don’t let the size fool you—they still include Napoleon’s signature quality and often feature the same ignition system and cast iron grates.
Phantom Series
A matte black finish, upgraded grids, and multifunction warming racks set the Phantom line apart. It’s ideal for those who want performance and aesthetics.
Real-World Performance and User Feedback
Thousands of user reviews and grilling forums consistently praise Napoleon for the following:
- Durability: The stainless steel components hold up well over time, even in coastal or snowy climates.
- Heat Distribution: Napoleon’s dual-level sear plates and precision burners offer excellent control and eliminate hot spots.
- Customer Support: While generally positive, some users report occasional issues with warranty claims. Purchasing from an authorized dealer is advised for peace of mind.
- Ease of Use: Many new grillers mention how intuitive and quick it is to get started grilling, even with the more advanced features.
Maintenance and Cleaning Tips
Keeping your Napoleon in great shape doesn’t require much effort but it does need consistency:
- After Each Use: Burn off food residue, then scrape the grates.
- Monthly: Empty and clean the grease tray. Wipe down the exterior with a stainless steel-safe cleaner.
- Seasonally: Deep-clean the burners, inspect the igniters, and check for any gas line wear or leaks.
- Winter Storage: If you’re in a snowy area, disconnect the tank, clean the interior, and cover the grill with a Napoleon-branded or heavy-duty cover.
Accessories That Elevate Your Napoleon Grill
One of the perks of going with Napoleon is the ecosystem of accessories that expand your grill’s potential:
- Cast Iron Plancha Griddle: Ideal for fajitas, smash burgers, or even breakfast.
- Rotisserie Kit: Adds versatility for cooking whole chickens or roasts.
- Charcoal Tray: Gives gas grillers the ability to use charcoal for extra flavor.
- Pizza Stone Kit: Turn your Napoleon into a pizza oven with crispy crusts and melty cheese.
How Napoleon Stacks Up Against Competitors
When it comes to Napoleon vs. Weber or other top brands like Broil King and Blaze, Napoleon often wins out on value, especially with mid-range models offering high-end features. Their SIZZLE ZONE burner is unmatched in the sub-$2,000 range, and their design aesthetics are often more modern and striking.
FAQ: Napoleon Grill Questions Answered
- Are Napoleon grills worth the money? Yes, Napoleon grills offer excellent performance, durability, and features at their price points. They often include premium-grade parts that competitors reserve for higher-end models.
- Where are Napoleon grills made? Napoleon grills are primarily made in Canada, though some parts and models are assembled in overseas facilities. Their flagship products are still manufactured domestically.
- How long do Napoleon grills last? With proper care, most Napoleon grills last 10-15 years or longer. Their stainless steel models are especially durable.
- Is Napoleon better than Weber? It depends on what you’re looking for. Napoleon often includes more features at similar price points, especially when it comes to infrared burners and build quality.
- Do Napoleon grills rust? Stainless steel models are highly rust-resistant. That said, keeping the grill covered and clean helps extend its life.
- What’s the difference between Prestige and Rogue models? Prestige models are made from thicker stainless steel and include more features like rear infrared burners. Rogue models are slightly more compact and more affordable.
- Can you smoke on a Napoleon gas grill? Yes, many Napoleon grills come with smoker trays or offer them as accessories, making it easy to add smoky flavor.
- What is the SIZZLE ZONE? It’s a high-heat infrared burner that can reach 1800°F. It’s perfect for getting a great sear on steaks.
- Do I need a cover for my Napoleon grill? A cover is strongly recommended to protect your grill from the elements. This helps prevent corrosion and debris buildup.
- Can Napoleon grills use natural gas? Yes, many models are available in natural gas versions or can be converted using a Napoleon-approved conversion kit.
- Is it hard to assemble a Napoleon grill? Most models come with clear instructions and take 1-2 hours to assemble with basic tools.
- Do Napoleon grills come with a warranty? Yes, most models come with generous warranties ranging from 10 years to a limited lifetime warranty.
- Are Napoleon grills good for beginners? Absolutely. They’re easy to light, intuitive to use, and flexible enough to grow with you as you get more advanced.
- Can I bake or roast with a Napoleon grill? Yes, the multi-burner design and included rotisserie accessories allow for indirect cooking methods like roasting and baking.
- What’s the best Napoleon grill for small patios? The Rogue 365 or Freestyle series is perfect for smaller spaces without compromising performance.
Final Thoughts
Napoleon has earned its place as a trusted brand in outdoor cooking, and for good reason. Their thoughtful engineering, robust performance, and wide range of models make them an excellent choice whether you’re upgrading from a basic grill or building out a dream backyard kitchen.
Recommended Video
Watch: Complete Napoleon Grill Buyer’s Guide on YouTube
If you’re a serious griller looking for a long-term investment in quality, a Napoleon grill should definitely be on your radar.
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