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When the weather starts to warm up, many of us are ready to fire up the grill and start cooking. (Some of us cook all year round, even in the snow, but that’s neither here nor there.) That glorious smoky aroma begins to pour from the grill and you know summer has arrived.
Maybe your old grill finally gave up the ghost. Or maybe you need another grill for your home away from home. Or maybe you want something portable to take on the road or to the game. Whatever the case might be, you’re in the market for a new grill.
But what kind of grill should you get? That’s where we come in. We’ll answer all your grill-buying questions, ranging from grill types to grill sizes. There’s plenty to know when it comes to deciding how to buy the best grill.
Types of Grills
The first thing you want to decide is what type of grill you want. Different grills run on different types of fuels, which could be a key component when choosing your grill. No single type is better than any of the others. Each has its share of pros and cons.
It’s really a matter of finding the grill that works best for you and your needs. Where are you going to be grilling most often? What are you going to grill? What type of fuel do you prefer to use? Do you want a grill that is easy to clean? Let’s start by taking a look at a few of the more popular types of grills from which you can choose.
Charcoal
If you cook a lot of steaks and you like to get a nice, dark sear on it, you might prefer a charcoal grill. However, something to keep in mind is that charcoal grills take more time to get going. They also require a little extra attention when it comes to getting the fire going and cleaning up afterward.
This type of grill uses charcoal briquettes to get a nice, slow, even burn, using high heat and reliable methods to bring out the natural flavor of your food. Of course, with this type of grill, you’ll have to plan your meal out in advance so you can be sure your grill is hot enough.
You can find charcoal grills in a wide range of sizes. For example, there are very small travel grills that are perfect for traveling or camping. There are also large, full-sized grills that are great for when you want to cook for guests.
Perhaps the most commonly recognized brand of a charcoal grill is Weber, which offers the perfect size grill no matter what you’re planning. If you want a traditional grilling experience with the most granular control possible, charcoal is the grill you want. A great option when it comes to charcoal grills is the Weber original grill. It’s perfect whether you have a lot of time at the grill or are just getting started.
Spark your passion for charcoal grilling with the Kettle that started it all. The Original Kettle Premium charcoal grill boasts upgraded features, such as a hinged cooking grate for easily adding charcoal while grilling, and the One-Touch cleaning system with a high-capacity ash catcher, making for a smooth grilling experience from beginning to end.
Pros
- Affordable and portable
- Some charcoal grills can get hotter than other types of grills
- Gives your food a true, natural flavor
Cons
- Takes longer to heat up
- More annoying to clean than other grills
- Certain places have restrictions or don’t allow charcoal grills
Gas
Gas grills are a very popular grill for use in the home. They don’t require a lot of maintenance, they’re easy to use, and they don’t cost a lot to operate. Built-in igniters provide an immediate flame, which burns hot and clean.
A lot of today’s gas grills allow users to manage the temperature across the surface of the grill with easy to use knobs. Gas grills heat up fast and they’re ideal if you like to cool a lot of vegetables, chicken, or fish.
If you plan on cooking a lot of steak or thicker cut meats, you should keep in mind that gas grills aren’t going to get a hot as their charcoal counterparts.
When it comes to choosing a gas grill, there are two types from which you can choose:
Natural Gas
With natural gas, you can connect your outdoor grill to the already existing gas system your home uses. This is the same gas that provides heat to your appliances like your hot water heater.
Natural gas is a great option if you plan on doing most of your grilling at home. You’ll never run out of fuel and it’s reasonably cheap.
Propane
You’ll typically find propane grills use a 20-pound tank for fuel. These tanks are easily filled at your local gas station, hardware store, or grocery store. You should get a solid 9 or 10 hours of cooking time out of one tank, depending, of course, on how high you’re burning it and how many burners are on your grill.
One of the best gas grills you’ll find on the market is the Char-broil 4-burner grill. It’s not too expensive and it’s great for anyone who grills on a regular basis.
This versatile grill offers sufficient cooking space whether you are grilling for a few friends or at your next backyard party.
Pros
- Easy to use and maintain
- Heats up quickly
- Fuel is easy to find
Cons
- Gas grills can be expensive
- Requires either a dedicated gas line or changing out the propane tank
- Not as portable as their charcoal counterparts
Electric Grills
Unlike charcoal and gas grills, electric grills don’t require fuel. As their name suggests, the only thing you need for an electric grill is an outlet to plug into. An electric grill is perfect if you live in an apartment complex where neither gas nor charcoal grills are allowed.
The downside to an electric grill is that they don’t offer the same smoky flavor you get with a charcoal grill and take a little longer to get going than gas grills. However, these grills are a solid alternative if you aren’t left with a lot of choices for grilling.
Pros
- Reliable
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Just plug it in and start grilling
Cons
- Flavor isn’t as robust
- Can be costly to repair
- Not as good for searing meat as other grilling options
Smokers
Wake up and light the smoker, because succulent pulled pork and fall-off-the-bone ribs come to those who wait. The Smokey Mountain Cooker smoker has two cooking grates for smoking multiple items at once, and dampers that adjust easily so that you’re always in control of the heat—and your feast.
While you can use your charcoal grill as a smoker if you want to, many who are dedicated to smoking their meat want a smoker specifically for that purpose. Using a smoker is perfect for creating the tastiest salmon, ribs, bacon, brisket, or turkey.
But that’s not all you can do with a smoker. Many who enjoy smoking will also get creative with vegetables, cheeses, and a wide variety of side dishes. Plus, with smokers, you aren’t restricted to one fuel type. There are electric, wood, charcoal, and propane smokers.
You’ll discover that smokers come in a wide range of shapes and sizes. So if you want to take yours with you, you should have no problem finding a portable option. Or if you want to smoke a whole pig, just look for one that’s big enough. They’re out there.
Even though they’re well-known for their charcoal grills, Weber also has some fun bullet smokers that are great for anyone interested in smoking. Check out this great 14-inch smoker if you want to get your feet wet.
Pros
- Get the ultimate flavor out of your meat
- Wide range of options available
- Multiple fuel types
Cons
- Takes a long time to prepare and cook food
- Requires regularly checking and maintaining the temperature
- A lot of choices could cause confusion for beginners
Kamado Grills
Premium 18″ Ceramic Grill with Cast Iron Cart & Locking Wheels – The Kamado Joe Classic II gives the perfect cooking size of 18 inches along with its Premium cart that comes with the purchase of your grill, including locking casters and wheels.
If you want to branch out into different types of grilling, you might consider an oval-shaped grill that’s referred to as a Kamado grill. These types of grills were originally located in Japan.
Current versions of these grills are high-fired ceramics that are covered with insulated materials. Due to this, Kamado grills have amazing heat retention and don’t require near the amount of charcoal that normal cookers do.
Kamado grills house a stainless steel or ceramic bowl that holds the wood and charcoal. Located at the bottom of your cooker is an opening that creates a draft and allows oxygen to push air through the vent.
This allows you to control the temperature of your grill so you get the perfect cook. With these vents, you can retain heat, which makes cooking or smoking with charcoal extremely effective. Perhaps the most recognized brand of Kamado grills are the Kamado Joe’s, which are an excellent option if you want to get started with a Kamado grill.
Pros
- Design provides a wide range of temperatures
- Very well insulated prevents loss of heat while cooking no matter the outside temperature
- Efficient and well-sealed keeps moisture in your grill while cooking
Cons
- Very heavy and not portable
- Since they’re well insulated, they take a long time to cool
- Has a steeper learning curve than other grills
Pellet Grills
The Davy Crockett is the ultimate portable grill. Also included is Sense-Mate, a thermal sensor that constantly monitors grill temperature. It can run on 12V or 120AC so it's perfect for home or camping, tailgating, hunting, house-boating, music festivals or anywhere you can take it.
Wood pellet grills are great for giving you the ideal smokey flavor without spending all day watching a smoker. There are only a few steps you need to take to use most wood pellet grills. Load the pellets into the hopper, set the thermostat, then close it up.
Once you set your desired temperature, an auger-fed system keeps it steady by continually feeding the appropriate amount of pellets into the grill. Additionally, an induction fan keeps the smoke moving throughout the cooker so your meat gets an even amount of flavor and heat distribution.
You’ll need both hardwood pellets and an electrical outlet if you want to use a pellet grill. However, you can select the type of hardwood your pellets are made of so you can get the perfect flavor while smoking your meat in the grill.
The appeal of using a pellet grill is that it automates much of the grilling process. If you want the perfect smoky flavor without all the extra work required of a charcoal grill or a smoker, a pellet grill might be the right fit for you. Green Mountain has a solid option for those interested in the world of pellet grills.
Pros
- Allows you to cook at a steady, consistent temperature
- Convection cooking allows for an even smoky flavor across your food
- Easy clean up when using wood pellets
Cons
- Won’t get temperatures as high as gas or charcoal grills
- Nearly all pellet grills are all the same size and shape
- More expensive than other grilling options
Portable Grills
The Coleman RoadTrip 285 Portable Stand-Up Propane Grill features sturdy quick-fold legs and 2 wheels for a hassle-free setup, takedown, and transport so that taking your grill on a camping trip or to a tailgate is easy.
Portable grills are exactly what they say they are, grills that are designed to take with you when you travel. These grills are smaller than the grills you use in your backyard, which makes them great for taking camping or tailgating.
While portable grills are small in nature, there are a few types from which you can choose. Some have folding legs or a cart and others sit on a stand or table. Some portable grills are electric, while others use a small can of propane or charcoal. Coleman is a well-known brand for camping equipment, which is why it is a great option if you’re looking for a portable grill to take with you.
Pros
- Great for traveling
- Easy to store
- Simple to clean and put away
Cons
- Less cooking space than on larger grills
- Won’t get as hot as charcoal or gas grills
- Most options are on the heavier side
Choosing the Right Grill for You
With so many options available, it can be a challenge to know how to buy the best grill for you. There are several factors you should consider as you decide which type of grill you want. Let’s take a look at some of these factors.
Where Are You Grilling?
This is perhaps the most important factor to consider. Will you be cooking in your back yard? Are you in an apartment with restrictions on certain types of grills? Do you plan on taking your grill with you when you travel?
Think about where you plan on doing the majority of your grilling and go from there. Answering that question may immediately eliminate some of the available options.
Grill Size and Surface Area
If you think you’ll be regularly cooking for large groups – or if you have a large family – you’ll want to consider a grill with enough surface area to cook everything.
A rule of thumb many smokers and grillers use is to determine how many burners they need, then get a grill that includes at least one more burner. Here are some thoughts on selecting the right size grill:
- Take a look at the size of the burners – will they cover the whole surface of the grill? You want to ensure that you have a nice, even heating surface
- What is the maximum temperature for your grill? You want a grill that should get to a minimum of 600 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Keep in mind that you don’t have to use all the burners at the same time. Some gas grills have different cooking zones
- Some grillers like to cook several dishes at the same time. If this is you, check out grills that have an additional burner on the side so you can customize your grill to your liking
Materials and Durability
Many grills out on the market today are encased in a strong steel housing. This includes the most popular options like gas, smokers, charcoal, and electric grills. Steel housing handles the high-stress and heat needed to grill efficiently.
The more traditional options will use a powder-coated or flat-black coat of paint. However, the more modern and high-end grills are nearly entirely built of stainless steel. Some of the highest-priced grills on the market are made of commercial-grade stainless steel.
These grills are chef-quality and very easy to clean once you’re done cooking. As you search for your grill, give special attention to how durable the grill is. Is it poorly made? Is it good quality? Be sure the grill you’re considering is sealed with high-quality craftsmanship.
Typically, you’ll want to select a grill that is made from one of the following materials:
- Stainless steel – This material won’t last forever, but you’ll be able to keep it around for a few years at the least. Stainless does show grease, spots, and dust, but it is a great way for your grill to retain heat even when you reach high temperatures.
- Cast iron – This is another solid material option and while it is very durable, it is also very heavy. Cast iron can easily rust if you don’t have a good coat of paint on it.
- Enamel-bonded steel – This material is similar to cast iron, however, enamel-bonded steel typically doesn’t rust unless you chip it. Before you purchase a grill made of this material, be sure to thoroughly check it for nicks.
- Cast aluminum – Unlike cast iron and enamel-bonded steel, aluminum won’t rust. But over time, it will begin to discolor.
Protecting and Cleaning
Finally, you’ll want to consider ways to protect and clean your grill. Even though your grill is outside doesn’t mean you should ignore taking care of it. Actually, it’s just the opposite. Because the high heat of your grill brings out all the salt and grease in your food, you need to be sure you clean it often.
If you let your grill get too dirty, it can become an unhealthy place where bacteria and other contaminants can build up. That means you want to select a good brush to clean off your grill when you’re done cooking.
The amount of maintenance and cleanup you have to do may largely depend on the type of grill you select. Here are some questions about cleanup you may want to ask as you go about selecting a grill:
- Can you remove the grates easily?
- Are the burners easily accessible?
- Is the ash or grease easy to remove?
As long as you keep your grill clean and covered, you’ll get years worth of use out of it. An accessory you should seriously consider purchasing is an outdoor cover that protects your grill from the elements between uses.
Top Brands
Within each type of grill are brands that rise above all the rest. Let’s take a quick look at some of the best brands within each grilling category.
Charcoal
Without a doubt, the kind fo the world of charcoal grilling is Weber. While most of their grills are kettle cookers that come in a round shape, they do offer a few various models that eschew their traditional models.
There are some other popular models available for charcoal grillers as well. These include Broil King and Char-Griller, both of which offer excellent options if you don’t want a Weber.
Weber Original Kettle Grill – Best Affordable Charcoal Grill
Even though it’s a simple charcoal grill, the original grill from Weber is still one of the best options out there. You can fit 15 to 20 burgers on the surface of this grill and it’s one of the most affordable grills on the market. For the money, the Weber Original Kettle Grill is arguably the best charcoal grill you can get.
Spark your passion for charcoal grilling with the Kettle that started it all. The Original Kettle Premium charcoal grill boasts upgraded features, such as a hinged cooking grate for easily adding charcoal while grilling, and the One-Touch cleaning system with a high-capacity ash catcher, making for a smooth grilling experience from beginning to end.
Pros:
- Plenty of recipes available for cooking on a Weber
- No shortage of replacement parts and accessories
- Long-lasting grill
Cons
- Doesn’t have as big of an ash catcher as other charcoal grills
- You might become addicted to grilling
- Can’t use it in certain areas due to ash and sparks
See how Weber compares to other brands?
Napolean Grills Charcoal Kettle Grill – Best Temperature Control Charcoal Grill
Even though Napolean Grills are some of the more expensive options on the market, they might be worth it if you want something that holds its temperature well.
Plus, it comes with an adjustable grate, so you can control how much heat your food gets while you’re cooking it. The Napolean charcoal grill just might be the fanciest grill available.
This charcoal barbecue grill has a 365-inch square cooking area (2340 cm²) or a diameter of 21.5 inches (57 cm) which is large enough to fit 22 hamburgers.
Pros
- The hinged grate makes it easy to add charcoal
- Holds temperature very well
- Huge surface area
Cons
- Takes a little longer to heat up
- More expensive than other charcoal grills
- Cleaning up charcoal and ash can be messy
Char-Broil American Gourmet Charcoal Grill – Most Surface Area
If you’re in the market for a charcoal grill but the surface area of a kettle grill isn’t cutting it, consider going with this Char-Broil grill. It offers 850 total square inches of surface, which means you can cook up a lot of meat all at once. Plus, it has a sliding side shelf that’s perfect for holding food while you’re pulling it off the grill.
The Char-Broil Charcoal 225 Grill is an 18" classic barrel-style grill that boasts 225 square inches of cooking space over cast-iron grates. The slide-out charcoal drawer allows for quick and mess-free loading of charcoal and ash removal when grilling is complete. 
Pros
- Plenty of cooking space
- Shelves available for holding food and accessories
- Smoke or grill your favorite foods
Cons
- If not kept covered, grill will rust
- Might be too bulky for smaller spaces
- You might go through fuel quickly
Gas
Weber is among the best in this category as well, although the gap for gas grills isn’t as wide. This is probably because there are so many different types of gas grills that come in all different shapes and sizes.
Other popular brands include Cuisinart and Broil King, both of which will give you a great grilling experience. These propane grills offer lots of room for grilling plenty of burgers, steaks, and hot dogs when you have everyone over.
Every Broil King gas grill is built to provide unparalleled cooking versatility.
Char-Broil Double Header – Best Gas Grill for Surface Area
If you have a big family or find yourself constantly grilling for large parties or gatherings, then this might be the grill for you. This grill comes with four burners plus a side burner, so you should have plenty of space no matter how much you need to cook. However, this grill comes with a price tag, so be aware that you’re going to pay more than you would for other, smaller grills.
Char-Broil Commercial Double Header Tru-Infrared Model Gas Grill, Outdoor, Waterproof Grey Padded Grill Cover By Comp Bind Technology.
Pros:
- Plenty of surface area
- Four burners + side burner
- Easy to use and start
Cons:
- More expensive than other gas grills
- Requires a large space to store it
- Some parts may require replacing
Weber Spirit II – Best Grill for Those Who Love Tech
If your house is fully immersed in the latest smart home technology, then the Weber Spirit II might be the grill for you. This grill includes a Bluetooth accessory that tells you the internal temperature of your food, along with a smart scale that measures how much propane is left in the tank. These are great smart options for anyone who likes the convenience of smart tech.
Get ready to step up your grilling experience. As the family sits down for dinner, or a couple of friends come over for a bite – this three-burner grill will do its magic.
Pros:
- Bluetooth app tells you the temperature of your meat
- The propane scale comes with a grill
- Not much cleanup required
Cons
- High price tag
- Only offers 3 burners
- Less durable than other types of grills
Broil-King Regal– Best Gas Grill for Those Who Like to Turn Up the Heat
The Broil-King Regal gas grill is great for those who like to use a lot of heat when grilling. This grill comes with a 15,000 BTU rotisserie burner and a 10,000 BTU side-burner, so you should have no trouble cooking your food no matter how thick it is. You can customize the Broil-King Regal with 4, 5, or 6 burners, so you get exactly what you want out of your grill.
Entertaining Your guests is what Broil King specializes in. The Regal is designed to help you create mouth-watering dishes that will be the hit of the backyard party. 
Pros:
- Slide-out tank holder makes changing propane convenient and easy
- Easy control over grill temperature
- Dual-tube burners create a high-powered cooking experience
Cons:
- Not as durable grill types
- Gas doesn’t give the food the flavor that charcoal grills do
- Larger grills are more difficult to store
Electric
Again, even for electric grills, you’ll find the same names you found in the first two categories. Weber, Cuisinart, and Charbroil all produce some of the best electric grills on the market.
If you want to go with a familiar brand that’s not quite as well-ranked, there are good George Foreman electric grills that will get the job done. Regardless of which grill you choose, be sure you have an outlet nearby.
The George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Grill has room for over 12 servings of delicious meats, veggies, kabobs, desserts, and more.
George Foreman Outdoor/Indoor Grill – Best Electric Grill
This freestanding electric grill is the perfect option for grilling both indoors and outdoors. Plus, with 240-square inches of cooking space, there’s plenty of room no matter what you’re grilling. While it won’t get as hot as other types of grills, it still gets plenty hot to whip up some tasty meals. Plus, cleanup is quick and easy when you use an electric grill.
The George Foreman Indoor Outdoor Electric Grill is perfect for entertaining. Use the 200 sq. in. nonstick cooking surface to make a delicious family dinner, or move it outdoors for a classic backyard barbecue.
Pros:
- Can be used inside or outside
- Sloped surface allows for easy draining fat
- Durable grill plate
Cons:
- Have to have access to an electrical outlet
- No internal thermostat available so you know the temperature of your food
- Not as much control as other types of grills offer
Philips Indoor Grill – Best for Those Who Don’t Like Smoke in Their Home
Philips offers an indoor electric grill that’s completely smokeless, so you don’t have to worry about turning on the fan or opening a window anytime you want a burger or steak. Even though you can’t control the temperature, the Philips indoor grill is a good option for grillers in areas that don’t allow charcoal or gas grills.
Advanced infrared technology and special reflectors guide heat to the indoor grill cooking grid for delicious, evenly grilled food. The drip tray underneath remains cool so there is virtually no smoke.
Pros:
- Little to no smoke when grilling
- Great for indoor use
- No heavy top plate means you’re not crushing your food while cooking it
Cons:
- No temperature control
- No top plate means you may experience spattering while cooking
- A short cord means you may need to use an extension cord
Cuisinart GR-150 Griddler – Best Electric Grill for the Money
If you’re in the market for an electric grill, the Cuisinart GR-150 is a great option.
The Cuisinart Griddler Deluxe takes grilling to new heights! It offers six enticing cooking options. The reversible grill and griddle plates, combined with dual-zone temperature control, give home chefs complete control. This grill is perfect for making pancakes and eggs for breakfast, panini and open-faced sandwiches for lunch, and burgers or fajitas for dinner.
Smokers
Smokers are a bit of a different animal, as they come in a wide range of shapes and sizes. Some people like Weber’s bullet smokers, while others prefer box-shaped options. You’ll also find some people that like the DIY option. If you’re comfortable with welding, there are plenty of blueprints and designs available online.
One of the more popular smoker manufacturers on the market is Traeger, which offers high-quality craftsmanship no matter what design you choose.
Traeger Grills is the original and best-selling wood pellet grill. They produce grills that offer 6-in-1 cooking versatility and feature WiFIRE technology.
Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker – Best Smoker for Beginners
This bullet-shaped smoker is great if you want to get your feet wet, but don’t want to use a complicated cooker. The Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker is ideal if you’re familiar with a charcoal grill and want to move to a smoker that works in a similar manner. It’s basic and straightforward and won’t cause a lot of confusion.
Wake up and light the smoker, because succulent pulled pork and fall-off-the-bone ribs come to those who wait. The Smokey Mountain Cooker smoker has two cooking grates for smoking multiple items at once, and dampers that adjust easily so that you’re always in control of the heat—and your feast.
Pros:
- Bullet-design saves on space
- Great setup for smoking
- Perfect for smoking newbies
Cons:
- Tough to see water level when smoking
- Requires opening and closing vents to get the desired temperature
- Takes practice to master smoking
Dyna-Glow Offset Smoker – Best Offset Smoker
An offset smoker is a smoker that has two chambers, typically separated by a sliding door or vent. The main chamber is where the meat goes, while the second chamber is where your wood or charcoal resides. The Dyna-Glow offset smoker is a great option for those who want a little more control while smoking their food, but don’t want to get too deep in the weeds.
This Dyna-Glo Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker DGO1176BDC-D gives you a truly distinct flavor and a wealth of custom cooking options. The smoker has a generous 1,175 square inches of cooking space to give space to cook a variety of foods at the same time.
Pros:
- Easy to understand and control
- A popular and cheap method to smoke your food
- Great for the DIY crowd
Cons:
- More challenging than bullet smokers
- Can be difficult to clean
- Requires a lot of attention while smoking
Camp Chef Propane Smoker – Best Smoker for Gas
Gas burning smokers are usually much lighter and easier to move than their charcoal counterparts. That Camp Chef gas smoker is the ideal smoker for those that prefer the ‘set it and forget it’ method.
For flavor, you can add some wood chips before you get started. Just be sure to confirm that you have enough propane to get through the entire smoking process.
The simple, yet durable design was applauded by outdoorsmen everywhere. Since then we’ve added griddles and grill box attachments, a variety of cast iron pieces, and more recently—pellet grills.
Pros:
- Very simple to use. Set the temperature and let the smoker do the work
- Buying propane can be cheaper than needing a lot of wood or charcoal
- Easier to clean than charcoal options
Cons:
- Need to buy wood chips to add flavor
- Easy to make adjustments
- Propane smell could soak into your meat
Kamado
When it comes to Kamado grills, you’ll find that Primo or Kamado Joe are the most popular options. These oval-shaped cookers are typically made of cast aluminum so you’ll get a nice, thorough cook each time.
You can use these fun grills for slow smoking or quick grilling, whichever you prefer. These grills have plenty of room, so if you need to cook for a large gathering, you’ll have no trouble fitting all the food on the cooker.
Kamado Joe – Best Overall Kamado Grill
The most well-recognized name in the Kamado grill market is Kamado Joe. These grills are known for their versatility, durability, and quality. Whether you’re buying your first Kamado grill or working your way toward becoming a grill master, the Kamado Joe grill is arguably the best you’ll find.
Flexible Cooking System transforms the humble grill grate into the most powerful cooking tool in your arsenal. The revolutionary multi-level, half-moon design frees you to cook different foods in different styles at different temperatures.
Pros:
- Well constructed grills
- Moderate size means you can store it wherever you need to
- Comes with many accessories
Cons
- One of the priciest Kamado grills on the market
- Very heavy grill
- Cooldown take a long time
Big Green Egg – Best Kamado Grill that Comes in Different Sizes
After Kamado Joe, the most popular Kamado grill option might be the Big Green Egg. It even has a following that cleverly refers to themselves as “Eggheads.” The top and bottom vents on this grill allow for precision temperature control and the grills are made out of high-quality ceramic. If you want a Kamado grill that comes in many different sizes, the Big Green Egg is tough to beat.
The Big Green Egg is the highest quality, most versatile and simplest-to-use outdoor cooker available, offering more cooking options than all other conventional cookers combined. Grill, roast, smoke, sear and bake the EGG does all this and more!
Pros:
- 7 different sizes from which you can choose
- Lots of accessories
- Well-made and durable
Cons:
- Tough to do multi-zone cooking
- Not as affordable as other grills
- The design has remained stagnant since its inception
Komodo Kamado – Best High-End Komado Grill
If you want the best of the best, look no further than the Komodo Kamado grill. This grill will set you back quite a bit in the money department, but it’s practically worth every penny.
It’s arguably the most well-designed, functional, high-quality, and durable Komado grill available today. The Komodo Komado has an option for gas, comes with a rotisserie, and includes many spare parts. It truly is a high-end Komado grill.
The Big Bad 32 is the newest member of the Komodo family designed to cook for large groups yet still be user-friendly for everyday cooks. With over 12 square feet of total grilling surface available to choose from, there is plenty of room at all four levels.
Pros:
- Excellent quality and craftsmanship
- Comes with multiple cooking grates, drip pan, and a wide range of accessories
- Many different colors from which you can choose
Cons:
- Extremely pricey
- Very, very heavy
- Steep learning curve
Pellet
Traeger is again one of the more well-known pellet grill brands on the market, but it has plenty of competition. Camp Chef and Green Mountain Grills are two solid options available if you want to use a pellet grill. However, keep in mind that these types of grills are heavy and might require two people to move.
These grills are efficient and simple to use, but not to mention easy to clean up. There are plenty of pellet grill options on the market, so take your time and find one that works for you.
Camp Chef Wifi Pellet Grill – Best All-Around Pellet Grill
What?? A wifi-enabled pellet grill?? That’s right. This Camp Chef grill lets you monitor the temperature and smoke of the grill right from your smartphone. That means you don’t have to get up every half hour to check. Plus, this Camp Chef grill is sturdy, well-constructed, and offers plenty of cooking area.
You asked and we delivered—the new Woodwind line is Camp Chef’s most feature-packed grill, making it the smartest and most versatile grill on the market. Fully equipped with our innovative PID and WIFI-enabled controller, you’ll be able to stay connected to your grill using the Camp Chef app.
Pros:
- Efficiently uses pellets
- Easy to cleanup
- Wifi!
Cons:
- Difficult to use when it’s wet outside
- Aren’t as well-developed as other types of grills
- Mostly only comes in one size
Traeger Pro Wood Pellet Grill – Best for the Latest and Greatest Features
Traeger grills have been on a bit of a downward trend lately, the Traeger Pro is slowly changing that pattern. For starters, this grill comes with wifi functionality, so you can check on the temperature no matter where you are.
Need to run to the store to grab some ice? As long as you have connectivity, you can check on the temperature of your food. The bigger Pro options come with 780 square inches of cooking area, so you’ll have plenty of room to grill no matter what size the party.
Never use gas or charcoal again: cooking with wood just tastes better. Traeger created the original wood-pellet grill as the ultimate way to achieve a wood-fired taste
Pros:
- Get exact temperature settings with speed controller
- Wifi capability
- Plenty of space for cooking large meals
Cons:
- You have to purchase additional accessories like a folding shelf or grill cover
- Temperature doesn’t get as hot as standard grills
- Tough for one person to move
Z Grill Wood Pellet Smoker – Best Pellet Smoker for Those on a Budget
Because pellet grills are so new and require a lot of moving parts, it’s tough to find one that works well in anyone’s budget. The closest you’ll come is the Z Grill Wood Pellet Smoker. Included with this grill is plenty of room for cooking your favorite foods and a storage cabinet to keep all your important accessories.
Offers more versatility to smoke, bake, roast, sear, braise, barbecue, and char-grill food with a healthy wood pellet. Just set it and let it work. No babysitting the grill! Infuse your food with a rich smoky flavor.
Pros:
- Great value for the cost
- Comes with a 36-month warranty
- Made of solid stainless steel
Cons:
- Cleaning unused pellets can be a pain
- The temperature control unit isn’t as reliable as other grills
- No wifi functionality
Portable
For portable grills, we turn once again to Weber and Char-broil. These compact grills are on the heavier side, but they’ll get the job done no matter where you’re going or what you’re cooking. Fortunately, portable grills range from very cheap to very expensive, so no matter what your budget, you should have no trouble finding one.
A lot of the portable gas options have push-button starters, which is great when you’re in a hurry and don’t want to mess around with charcoal. Many also come with temperature gauges so you can make any necessary adjustments while you’re cooking your favorite food.
Weber Smokey Joe – Best Portable Charcoal Grill
If you’re partial to charcoal grills no matter where you are, then the Weber Smokey Joe is great for portability. This grill is the perfect combination of quality and price and is light enough to take with you anywhere you go.
The Weber Smokey Joe has enough space to easily feed 4-5 people, so it’s great if you’re tailgating before the big game or headed out into the wilderness for the weekend.
Load up the car and hit the road with your Smokey Joe portable charcoal grill. Its durable, lightweight, compact design is perfect for grilling on the go - whether walking to the beach or taking a road trip. Make your holiday at the beach even more enjoyable with this Weber 14" Smokey Joe Charcoal Grill.
Pros:
- Can fit up to six hamburgers at a time
- Easy to carry
- Comes in 14 and 18-inch options
Cons:
- No handles mean you have to wait until it cools to move it
- Made of lighter materials that aren’t as durable
- Does not include a lock to keep the lid in place while cooking or moving
Cuisinart Petite Gourmet – Best Portable Grill when Camping
For those of you who go camping on a regular basis, the Cuisinart Petite Gourmet grill is a great selection. No one is going to lug around a full-size grill, but this Cuisinart might be the next best thing. This grill is light yet durable and comes completely assembled. All you have to do is get the fuel for it and you’re ready to start grilling!
Get great grilled flavor every day from this compact, high-performance grill. Its small format can be put almost anywhere for ultimate convenience.
Pros:
- Portable and lightweight
- Built-in stand included
- Great heat control
Cons:
- Doesn’t have a temperature gauge
- Only 145-square inches of cooking space
- Plastic latch isn’t very durable
Traeger Bronson Portable – Best Portable Wood Pellet Grill
While portability isn’t a term regularly used for wood pellet grills, the Traeger Bronson Portable is about as good as you’re going to get. This portable pellet grill isn’t easy on the wallet, but if you’re partial to using one, this is a great option. If you have the room, the Traeger portable is about as small as you’re going to get when it comes to wood pellet grills.
The all-new Bronson 20 grill is a wood-fired assault grill that’s built to champion cooking outdoors everywhere adventure lies. From your urban patio to your favorite lakeside fishing hole, the broad sawhorse chassis provides stability and the solid all-terrain wheels make transporting it over rocks and through dirt simple.
Pros:
- Fantastic wood-smoked flavor
- Durable and high-quality
- Easy to use
Cons:
- Expensive
- Difficult to store
- Heavy when compared to other portable grills
FAQs
Grills are great tools to have when you want to get that seared and smoky flavor in your meal. But what else do you need to know? Here are some often asked questions about getting the best grill.
If you want to get a good discount on a grill, you’ll want to start looking for one in the fall, usually around September. You might start noticing sales in July but wait those out. It’s still peak season, so you’re not likely to get a good deal until the seasons start to change. Be patient, keep your eyes peeled, and you’re sure to find a great grill for an even better price.
So how long should you expect your grill to last? This can depend a great deal on the type of grill you own. Typically, people throw their grills away after only a few years of use, but with proper care, yours should last up to a decade before you need to think about replacing it.
If your grill has loose rust, you should most definitely not cook on it. Rust can stick to your food, which could cause digestive or intestinal problems. Thoroughly clean and treat your grill if it has rust before you use it.
At the very least you should give your grill a simple cleaning after cooking on it. Typically you want to do this after you’re done preparing your meal while the food particles are still pretty warm. Find a good wire brush or wood scraper to get your grill nice and clean. If you neglect your grill, you might discover that it’s starting to rust or wear out long before you expect it to.
Final Thoughts
There are plenty of choices when it comes to buying the best grill, so take your time and determine what makes the most sense for your needs. If you don’t mind taking some extra time to get that great smoky flavor, then maybe a charcoal grill is what you want.
Or, if you live in an apartment complex that doesn’t allow certain types of grills, then maybe you need an electric grill. For those that travel a lot, a portable grill might make the most sense. Grilling can be a lot of fun, but not if you get a grill that isn’t what you expected or you can’t use.
So take stock of what you want out of your grilling experience, make note of any exceptions you may have to deal with, get out there, and find the grill you want. Then, you can grill to your heart’s content. Rain, snow, or shine, you can fire that bad boy up and get to it. Enjoy!