How to Choose the Best Outdoor Grill for Your Backyard



Getting an outdoor grill can take your backyard barbecues to the next level. With the right grill, you'll be able to cook delicious food for family and friends during the warmer months. Choosing the best outdoor grill for your needs will ensure you get great performance for years to come.

Assess Your Grilling Needs

Before shopping for a grill, think about how you plan to use it. Important factors to consider include:

  • Cooking capacity: How many people do you usually cook for? If you regularly host large gatherings, you may want a grill with a larger cooking surface and more burners. For smaller groups, a more compact grill should suffice.

  • Grilling frequency: Do you mainly grill on weekends or cook outside multiple times a week? Frequent grillers may want a heavy-duty model that can handle repeat use. Those who grill less often can likely get by with a more basic grill.

  • Fuel type: Grills run on gas, charcoal, electricity, or wood. Consider which fuel source best suits your grilling style and preferences.

  • Portability: If you want to bring your grill to tailgates or campsites, look for a smaller, lightweight model with wheels and foldable side tables. Stationary backyard grills don't require portability features.

  • Budget: Outdoor grills are available at a range of prices, from under $100 for basic portable charcoal models to over $1,000 for high-end gas grills. Set a budget to narrow down your options.

Compare Gas, Charcoal, Electric, and Wood Pellet Grills

The fuel type significantly impacts grilling performance and experience. Compare the pros and cons of each option.

Gas Grills

Gas grills are the most popular backyard grills. They provide:

  • Convenience - Push a button or turn a knob to ignite the burners. Temperature is easy to adjust.

  • Consistency - Heat is evenly distributed for reliable cooking results.

  • Control - Multiple burners allow you to create hotter and cooler zones for direct or indirect cooking.

  • Quick cooking - You can get food on the grill fast without waiting for coals to heat up.

Gas grills have disadvantages, including relying on a gas supply, less smoky flavor, and potential issues with grease flare-ups. Liquid propane (LP) tanks need to be refilled while natural gas hooks up to your home's supply.

Charcoal Grills

Charcoal grills use lump charcoal or briquettes as the fuel source. Benefits include:

  • Authentic smoke flavor - Charcoal combustion gives food a desirable, traditional barbecue taste.

  • Inexpensive - Basic charcoal kettle grills can cost much less than gas grills.

  • Portability - Many charcoal models are lightweight and easy to transport.

Drawbacks include longer cook times, uneven heating, temperature fluctuations, and messy ash cleanup. Chimney starters help ignite coals faster, and hardwood charcoal burns cleaner than briquettes.

Electric Grills

Electric grills plug into an outdoor outlet to heat up quickly without flames or smoke. Pros:

  • Convenient - Push a button to turn it on. No fuel tanks are needed.

  • Safe - No open fire, making them good for apartment balconies or patios.

  • Easy temperature control - Built-in thermostats evenly distribute heat.

However, electric grills don't impart much flavor since no smoke is produced. You must also have an outdoor electrical outlet nearby.

Wood Pellet Grills

Wood pellet grills burn small compressed wood pellets to produce smoke and heat. Benefits include:

  • Smokey wood flavor - Pellets made from mesquite, hickory, applewood, etc., infuse food with a natural smoke taste.

  • Precision temperature control - Digital controls make it easy to dial in the ideal heat for proper cooking.

  • Versatility - Many pellet grills double as smokers and ovens.

Pellet grills can be more expensive. You'll also need to keep pellets stocked and clean the burn pot of ash buildup. The best option is to use 100% natural wood pellets.

Key Features to Look for in an Outdoor Grill

Once you decide on gas, charcoal or another fuel type, compare features between different grills in that category.

Build Quality

A grill's materials and construction impact its durability. Look for:

  • Stainless steel or cast iron grates - These conduct heat well and resist decay.

  • Sturdy lid and body - Thick steel components minimize heat loss while keeping the grill intact over time.

  • Weather resistance - Lids and cabinets sealed against the elements hold up better. Some grills come with weather-proof covers.

Cook Box

The cook box houses the burners or charcoal bed and contains heat. Consider:

  • Total cooking area - Make sure the grill surface provides ample space for your needs. Measure primary cooking grates and secondary warming racks.

  • Number of burners - More burners allow you to cook different foods at varying temperatures. Look for at least two burners.

  • Heat distribution - Grates should disperse heat evenly to prevent hot and cold spots.

Ignition System

Look for quick, reliable burner ignition:

  • Push-button ignition - Gas grills should have push-button or knob-turn ignition rather than needing matches to light burners.

  • Battery backup - Some gas grills have battery-powered ignition as a failsafe. This allows ignition during power outages.

Temperature Controls

Convenient, precise temperature adjustment is essential for proper grilling:

  • Individual burner controls - Dedicated knobs for each burner make it easy to set custom heat zones.

  • Precision regulator - Gas grills should have an adjustable regulator to fine-tune flame intensity.

  • Built-in lid thermometer - This allows monitoring of internal temperature for accurate cooking.

Extra Features

Additional conveniences to look for include:

  • Side burners - Secondary burners are useful for simmering sauces and side dishes.

  • Interior lighting - Lights inside the cook box illuminate food for evening grilling.

  • Rotisserie - Slow rotisserie cooking helps meat self-baste in juices.

  • Fuel gauge - This indicates how much gas is left in the LP tank so you don't run out mid-grilling.

  • Tool hooks - Having hooks to hang grilling tools keeps them within reach.

Compare Different Brands of Outdoor Grills

The major grill brands each offer unique advantages.

Weber - Renowned for durable charcoal kettle grills and quality gas grills with excellent warranty support. Favorites include the Weber Spirit gas series and classic 22-inch charcoal kettle grill.

Napoleon - Known for high-heat performance, even heat distribution, and sleek aesthetics. The Prestige Pro gas series incorporates innovative features.

Char-Broil - Provides a wide range of affordable charcoal and gas grills. The Performance Series offers good value for the price.

Char-Griller - Specializes in versatile charcoal grills and smoker combo models at budget prices. The Akorn Kamado charcoal grill is a top pick.

Broil King - Manufactures well-built gas and charcoal grills focused on even heating and grilling performance. The Signet 320 is a noteworthy mid-range gas option.

Pit Boss is a leading brand for wood pellet grills, offering smoker capabilities at lower costs than competitors. The Pit Boss 700FB is a quality starter pellet grill.

Where to Buy an Outdoor Grill

You can find grills at:

  • Hardware stores—Stores like Home Depot and Lowe's have a vast selection of major grill brands and models. You can see display units in person, and staff may be able to help with setup or use.

  • BBQ specialty stores - Retailers that focus on grills and smokers, like BBQ Guys, offer extensive expertise. Visit to get tailored recommendations from knowledgeable sales staff.

  • Online - Websites like Amazon, Walmart, and grill manufacturer ecommerce sites provide convenient online shopping. You'll find competitive pricing along with user reviews.

  • Warehouse clubs - Costco, Sam's Club, and BJ's sell grills at discounted prices, though with a more limited selection. Shop early in the season for the best variety.

Conclusion

Selecting the best outdoor grill for your backyard involves careful consideration of your grilling needs, preferred fuel type, and desired features to ensure a satisfying cooking experience. Whether you opt for the convenience of a gas grill, the traditional flavor of charcoal, or the versatility of a wood pellet grill, choosing a high-quality model will enhance your outdoor gatherings for years to come. Main Auction Services, Inc. offers a variety of options to suit different budgets and preferences, making it easier to find the perfect grill to elevate your backyard barbecues.

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