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When it comes to grilling, most people have strong opinions on the type of outdoor grill they like to use — including our experts. Each type has its pros: Gas grills deliver big on ease of use, while charcoal grills create smokier flavor. Electric grills have become more powerful and can be appealing to those who live in apartments, while specialty grills — like the and other types of smokers, including pellet grills — continue to grow in popularity.
In the Good Housekeeping Institute Kitchen Appliances Lab, we test all types of grills, from full-size models to portable grills. We test them for performance and ease of use, and consider factors like how evenly they heat, how quickly they cook, whether they flare up, what kind of shelves and tool holders they have, how easy is it to attach or fill the fuel source and more.
Since 2011, weve tested more than 80 outdoor grills, including more than 45 new models since 2019. This guide to best outdoor grills you can buy includes the top-performers from our tests; we also have our consumer testers continue to use the grills in real-world settings so they can report back on how our top picks hold up over time.
At the bottom of this guide, youll find more on how we test grills and what to look for when shopping for one. Weve also tested all kinds of grilling accessories — including grill tongs, grill baskets, grill brushes and grill cleaners — so youll be covered every step of the way.1Best Overall
“A charcoal grill is what comes to mind when you are going to think of grilling, likely that smoky flavor, that iconic kind of kettle look,” Larson says, “and it is a great place to start for beginner grillers because charcoal grills end up being a little bit more affordable.”
Weber Spirit II E-310 Propane Grill 4Best Propane Grill
- Produces great results
- Minimal flare-ups
- Takes a long time to assemble
When it comes to cooking, this three-burner stainless steel grill is just about perfect. In our test, it turned out steaks with gorgeous grill marks that were beautifully rare and juicy. Chicken came off the grates golden brown, moist and tender — and all this with barely any flare-ups. After using it consistently for more than three years, it still turns on effortlessly, heats quickly and evenly, doesnt produce flare-ups and has stood up to the New York City elements.
We appreciate the many features that make it pleasant to use like sturdy side shelves, tool holders and a shelf to stash extra items. We also appreciate the propane tank holder that lets you know how much gas is left in the tank (a feature on many Weber grills). It comes with porcelain-enameled cast-iron grates that have held up nicely over the years.
| Type of grill | Gas |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 44.5″ x 52″ x 27″ |
| Cooking surface | 529 sq. in. |
| Cooking grate material | Porcelain-enameled cast iron |
Weber Q1200 Liquid Propane Grill 6Best Portable Outdoor Grill
- Lightweight but powerful
- Has nice ease-of-use features like folding shelves and an easy-to-access drip tray
- Not as powerful as other models
For those looking for a small outdoor grill or to grill on-the-go, this gas grill from Weber doesnt compromise quality. It works with both a small propane tank or a standard-sized one depending on your needs.
In our tests, it heated evenly and made good steak and chicken thighs with no flare-ups. It has a built-in thermometer and an oversized handle that stayed cool during tests. The side shelves, which are a unique feature that most portable grills dont have, fold in when the grill is not in use. Its lightweight compared to other portable grills we tested and can be carried by one person. It can also be for a standing grill experience.Advertisement – Continue Reading Below7Best Kamado Grill
Beginner’s Guide to Buying a BBQ Grill
FAQ
What kind of grill is easiest to use?
Is charcoal or gas grill easier?
What type of grill should I buy?
When you shop for a grill, you can choose among gas, charcoal, and pellet models—each of which, according to our tests, has its own advantages. You might also consider gas-fueled flat-top grills, which feature a griddle-like surface instead of open grates, or kamado grills, which hold more charcoal than traditional charcoal grills.
What are the best grills for beginners?
From simple charcoal grills and propane cookers to more advanced pellet-fuelled barbecue models, these are the best grills for beginners out there today. Not all of us are blessed with a generously sized garden or patio area, but luckily this is no longer an issue these days.
What should I consider when buying a gas grill?
Think about the following when you’re shopping for a gas grill. Heat intensity in 10 minutes: This preheating score in our comprehensive gas grill ratings is more helpful than the grill’s Btu measurement in predicting performance. (Ten minutes is the typical amount of time people wait to start cooking, according to our data.)
How do I choose a grill for a large family?
A large family will want to choose a BBQ with a larger grilling surface. These are usually measured in square inches, and you want to be sure you have at least 100 square inches per person in the family – i.e., a grill with 400 square inches of sizzling space for a family of four.