Some people take grilling very seriously. We’re not those people. This is not that roundup. Even a casual search for the best grills can bring up an overwhelming number of expensive, bulky options and an equally overwhelming number of questions: What type of temperature control are you looking for? Do you have a natural-gas setup? How many BTUs are you working with? Suddenly, getting your outdoor cooking situation set up has become pretty complicated.
So we’re here with a few recommendations based on a slightly different set of standards. Our criteria for helping you narrow down your grill selection is pretty simple: Does it look good, and does it get the job done? We factored in style, functionality, size, and price—only two options on the list top $500. Pair with some beautiful outdoor furniture, learn how to clean a grill properly so it will last as long as possible, and you’ll be living alfresco in no time.
Gas Grills
Gas grills are a fast-heating variety that typically run on propane, though some can be converted to run on natural gas (not recommended for an apartment or a rental). That means you’ll have to keep an eye on your propane levels and be prepared to stock up before any party. Gas grills are convenient and allow for slightly more control over temperature and cooking style than a charcoal grill, but they’ll lack that smoky BBQ flavor.
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3-Burner Open Cart Propane Gas Grill in Black
Mixing glossy and matte black materials, this attractive Dyna-Glo model has porcelain finishes on the cooking grates as well as on the heat tents, making it easy to clean. And, at $119, it’s the most affordable gas grill on the list.
2-Burner Convertible Gas Grill
This compact KitchenAid option has only two burners and collapsible side tables for maximum space-saving. Despite its size, it still manages to pack in style; the color-blocked columns and pop of color give it an almost Deco look.
4-Burner Propane Gas Grill
The full stainless-steel finish makes this high-rated Nexgrill a sleek contender. With an electric igniter, warming rack, and built-in thermometer for even temperature control, it’s got solid beginner cred, as well as a compartment for hiding away a propane tank to maintain its streamlined design.
Everdure by Heston Blumenthal Force Grill
The Everdure is the most expensive grill on our list, but it’s backed up with cooking chops. The hood shape promotes even, convection-like cooking, and each of the two burners is independently controlled. It boasts a five-minute preheat time and two types of cooking plates—one cast-iron and one standard grill—for varying styles. It’s also available in several shades to customize for your patio.
Charcoal Grills
If you’ve got a bit more patience and love the flavor that comes with a charcoal grill, you’ll likely be rewarded with a lower price tag. Charcoal grills also tend to be smaller in size and are slightly more practical in terms of upkeep (no replacement tanks, no gas hookups). All you’ll need is a bag of briquettes and a few cooking accessories to get you on the road to grillmaster glory.
Weber Original Kettle 18-Inch Charcoal Grill
It’s called an original for a reason. Perhaps one of the most recognizable grills on the market, this classic Weber model is functional design at its affordable best. You can’t cook a whole hog on it (though it is
available in a larger size and more colors), but it fits all of our design, space, and price criteria.
Äpplarö/Klasen
The mixed materials (acacia wood, stainless steel, powder-coated steel) makes this IKEA charcoal grill look sophisticated beyond its under-$200 price tag. The grate is made of high-grade stainless steel and measures 285 square inches, giving it slightly more cooking space than the Weber.
BergHOFF 13-Inch Ceramic Charcoal Grill in Orange
This bright orange beauty is a kamado grill, a style of ceramic charcoal cooker that originated in Japan. Recommended for slow cooking and smoking meats as well as standard grilling and searing, this BergHOFF is tiny but mighty.
Weber Slate Blue Performer Deluxe Charcoal Grill
An upgrade on the Weber classic, the Performer Deluxe has several features that might be worth the extra investment, including an ignition button for lighting your charcoal, a built-in holder for the lid, and an automated cleaning system to spare you the effort.
Spark Grills
We appreciated the forward-thinking technology and throwback design of this grill so much, we named it
one of the Cleverest products of 2020. As a new kid on the block of the grill world, the brand is making a statement with its quick ignition and precision cooking abilities, not always easy to achieve with charcoal. It also comes with an app to help you cook with control.
Tabletop and Portable Grills
Maybe you’re not looking to build a full outdoor kitchen, or you’re a fan of camping, tailgating, or the casual outdoor snack. That’s where these small-scale options come in handy.
16-Inch Cohan BBQ Portable Charcoal
Perfect for summer grilling adventures (while staying socially distanced, of course), this charcoal mini grill even has a strap for convenient carrying. It’s so ingeniously crafted, we won’t judge if you want to keep it on your patio. Plus, the cork lid doubles as a trivet.
Eco-Friendly Instant Grill
What’s an instant grill? Well, in this case it’s a completely biodegradable BBQ made of bamboo and cardboard. The grill is powered with lava stones and meant for one-time use. It may not last a lifetime, but it’s an inexpensive conversation starter, for sure.
Cuisinart Venture Portable Gas Grill
Weighing in at 22 pounds, this tiny gas grill has several smart design features: a wooden lid that also acts as a cutting board, a handle with a rubber grip, and a porcelain-coated cooking surface for a quick clean.
Bodum Fyrkat Mini Charcoal Outdoor Grill
Known for its minimalist, ergonomic French presses, Bodum also manufactures adorable portable grills with cheerful, bright red silicone handles and shiny chrome exteriors.
Mon Oncle Tabletop BBQ
Name a cuter dining companion than this charcoal-powered tabletop BBQ. It’s designed to be portable, folding up like a standard-size briefcase while looking like something from a Wes Anderson movie.
