Best Cheap Gas Grills
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Gas grills are a great way to cook some tasty food, but it can be challenging to figure out which one is the best.
A high-end gas grill might cost you hundreds or even thousands of dollars, but you have plenty of affordable options if you’re on a tight budget. For your convenience, we evaluated and analyzed the most popular brands on the market to help you choose the best fit for your needs.
Continue reading to find out more about the best cheap gas grills.
Best Cheap Gas Grill: Quick Summary
- Char-Broil Performance 300
- American Gourmet Classic 280
- Char-Broil Classic 360 with Side Burner
- American Gourmet Classic 360
- Char-Griller E3001
- Weber Q1000 Portable Gas Grill
- Monument Grills Tabletop Gas Grill
Char-Broil Performance 300 2-Burner Gas Grill
Last update on 2024-04-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Our top pick for the best cheap gas grill is the Char-Broil Performance 300.
It has a 300-square-inch cooking area and a 2-burner cabinet gas grill with a 24,000 BTU heat output.
Having two burners gives you more control over your BBQ session and the ability to set up two separate cooking areas.
The primary cooking surface is cast iron, which is strong and should last a long time.
You can use two side shelves to keep your dishes and grilling tools in order. An integrated grease pan is included for easy cleaning.
The tank and regulator are shielded from the elements by a closed cabinet. The grill’s two knobs control the temperature for everything from slow roasting to searing.
The Char-Broil Performance 300 is an affordable gas grill with all the bells and whistles you need to start grilling.
Check out some more of the best two-burner gas grills.
American Gourmet Classic 280 2-Burner Gas Grill
Last update on 2024-05-02 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The American Gourmet Classic 280 is a less expensive alternative if you don’t require quite as much cooking space as our top pick.
There are only two burners and 280 square inches of cooking space on this propane-powered grill, but it has many of the same features as our top pick.
The porcelain-coated grates, 13 x 12-inch side shelves, and electrical ignition system of this two-burner barbecue make it ideal for grilling. Cooking surfaces are evenly heated by two stainless steel burners that produce 20,000 BTUs of heat.
There are a few complaints from consumers who say that the grill is a little challenging to set up, but it’s worth it in the long run.
Char-Broil Classic 360 3-Burner Gas Grill with Side Burner
Last update on 2024-05-02 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
When it comes to grilling, the Char-Broil Classic 360 is an excellent choice for those who don’t want to spend a lot of money on a grill.
Although this grill is inexpensive, it has many of the same features as more expensive models: It features 30,000 BTUs of grilling power, 360 square inches of grilling space, and a 170 square inch rack for slow cooking or resting dishes after searing.
In addition to the stainless steel inline burners, which provide greater temperature control, and the Piezo ignition technology, which works quickly and effortlessly, this model has a side shelf for prep work.
You can also expand your cooking space by using the 8000 BTU side burner as an additional cooking surface for side dishes or sauces.
American Gourmet Classic 360 3-Burner Gas Grill
Last update on 2024-05-02 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
If you’re looking for a great grill at a reasonable price, check out the American Gourmet Classic 360. You can’t beat the low cost of this freestanding grill, which has all the features you need for an outstanding outdoor barbecue.
Grilling up to 15 burgers at a time is no problem with this propane-powered grill’s 360-square-inch cooking surface and 170-square-inch swing-away warming rack.
The grill produces 30,000 BTUs of heat overall and has three independent burners you can control.
Electronic ignition, porcelain-coated grates, stainless steel burners, and two sturdy side shelves for food preparation are all included in this grill.
Even though the American Gourmet Classic 360 doesn’t have all the bells and whistles of more expensive models, it works well and should be a good choice for small spaces.
Char-Griller E3001 3-Burner Gas Grill
Last update on 2024-05-02 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Char-Griller E3001 packs an incredible 40,000 BTUs across three burners, making it one of the best budget gas grills.
It is pretty powerful, even when compared to more expensive models. Therefore, its affordable price makes it a true steal.
Thanks to the 438 square inches of cooking area spread between its burners, you have plenty of grilling area. A 192-square-inch warming rack is included as a bonus, allowing you to keep cooked food warm before serving.
It also features a 12,000 BTU side burner, which you can use to sear meats or cook smaller dishes like veggies.
The cooking grates are made of porcelain-coated cast iron for better heat retention.
It is equipped with utensil hooks and a side shelf so you can better organize your ingredients and utensils.
The grill’s overall design and build quality are good, especially considering the price.
So, if you’re searching for a low-cost grill that can cook a lot of food quickly and efficiently at high temperatures, the Char-Griller E3001 is a good option.
Weber Q1000 Portable Gas Grill
Last update on 2024-05-02 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This Weber Q1000 is a compact portable model with a large cooking area.
It features a cast iron grate that is 189 square inches, enough space for nine burgers at a time, and an impressive 8,500 BTU output.
The Weber grill has a nylon-coated cast aluminum top and body, a push-button ignition, and an easily removable catch pan. It is also compatible with the 1000-series Weber griddle for those who enjoy making breakfast when camping or tailgating (sold separately).
You will love this portable propane grill because it’s dependable, sturdy, and produces a lot of heat for such a low price.
Monument Grills Tabletop Gas Grill
Last update on 2024-05-02 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Monument Grills Tabletop Gas Grill is another excellent cheap portable gas grill because of its features, such as the ability to cook food at high heat, a large cooking area, and stainless steel construction.
It also has two main 304 stainless steel burners that produce a combined 15,000 BTUs of power, which makes it quick to heat up. You can set different temperatures depending on your cooking because the burners operate independently.
It also comes with a built-in thermometer gauge, so you can easily monitor the temperature inside the grill.
The grill is made of stainless steel and weighs only 20 lbs. With a deep lid, travel locks, and a 40-inch hose, it is easy to carry with you on camping trips, picnics, and tailgating.
The Monument Grills Tabletop Gas Grill is an excellent choice if you live in a small space or enjoy a barbecue on the go.
What You Should Know Before Buying a Gas Grill
It might be challenging to figure out what you want in a gas grill. So we’ll show you what you need to know.
There are two main types: propane and natural gas, which you should be aware of from the beginning.
The most popular type of grill you’ll find in stores is a propane grill, which needs a propane tank to operate.
On the other hand, natural gas grills must be connected directly to your home’s natural gas line. However, they require professional installation and cannot be moved. Natural gas grills essentially never run out of fuel.
In addition, the primary cooking surface and the ignition switches are pretty important.
Electric igniters, powered by batteries, or piezo igniters, which generate sparks on their own, are used in gas grills. Both are dependable, but piezos are more likely to last for a more extended period.
While a grill with one to three burners is excellent for a single family, one with four or more burners is ideal for parties and numerous dishes.
A decent medium-sized gas grill will have a primary cooking surface measuring between 300 and 400 square inches.
The Benefits of Gas Grills
Most people use gas grills in the summer since they are so convenient and easy to use when grilling outside.
In addition to its affordability and ease of use, gas is a highly efficient and low-maintenance fuel. Also, gas grills are environmentally friendly because they produce little carbon dioxide emissions.
Here are a few benefits of gas grills.
Efficient And Cheap
If you’re looking to buy a barbecue, gas or charcoal come to mind.
A gas grill is a cost-effective and long-lasting option for cooking outside. Those who grill frequently and don’t want to buy charcoal all the time will appreciate this feature.
Fast Cooking
A gas grill is your best option if you’re looking for a quick way to prepare your food.
Simple to Use
For example, gas grills have temperature and flame size controls on the front of the grill that is responsive and can be set to a precise temperature. Using a gas grill, you don’t have to worry about food burning because of the grill’s adjustable temperature.
Thanks to the variety of grilling tools and accessories that most gas grills have, outdoor barbecue has never been more straightforward.
Low Smoke
In general, gas grills are considered safe because they don’t produce a lot of smoke.
Simple to Clean
Some grills make a mess and are a pain to clean. Cleaning and emptying grease traps is a breeze with a gas barbecue because it doesn’t require any tools.
There is minor cleanup required after using a gas grill, which makes them ideal for people who prefer cooking outside in the summer.
A Buyer’s Guide to the Best Cheap Gas Grills
This buying guide will discuss the essential features of a cheap gas grill and provide information on what to look for when purchasing one.
Materials
It’s essential to look for a long-lasting gas grill when making a purchase.
As gas grills are typically placed outside, look for something that can withstand various weather conditions. For example, stainless steel is less likely to rust.
Additionally, you should check the cooking grates’ construction materials. Stainless steel or cast iron grates are the best choices.
It’s easy to clean stainless steel grates, and they’re also rustproof. Porcelain-coated cast iron grates have better heat retention and are easy to clean.
Size
Tabletop grills are a great option if you cook outside occasionally and don’t have enough space in your backyard or on your deck for a larger grill. If there is enough room, a larger grill would be ideal for individuals who frequently plan to cook outside.
Burner
The number of burners that your grill has is also essential. With more burners, you can heat the grill more quickly and to a higher temperature.
The grill can be divided into many areas, each with its own set of heat controls. As a result, you’ll be able to prepare multiple meals simultaneously.
You should be able to use two-zone cooking if your gas grill has at least two burners. Turning off one side of the grill and slow cooking over indirect heat is a time-saving option.
BTU
The temperature your grill can reach depends on how many BTUs it has. Heat is measured in British Thermal Units (BTU).
In addition to speeding up the cooking process, a higher BTU allows you to prepare a wider variety of foods.
Cooking Space
If you are only cooking for two people at a time, you don’t need a grill with a large cooking area. If you entertain frequently, have a large family, or prefer to cook massive amounts of food in advance, a grill with a large cooking area will be more convenient.
Warranty
An extended warranty protects you if any parts or components fail within a specific period. You may want to prioritize products that have a more extended warranty period if they are available.
FAQs
How Do I Know What Size Grill to Get?
The grill’s cooking surface is the most crucial consideration when choosing the right grill size. Square inches are used to measure cooking space. A typical three-burner gas grill has 450-500 square inches of cooking space, which is enough for most families.
Do You Have to Use All the Burners on a Gas Grill?
Set the burners to their maximum heat for 10 minutes with the lid closed, then turn them down to medium when you’re ready to cook. It should raise the temperature by around 450 degrees. Put the food on the clean cooking grates and grill it according to the recipe.
How Long Do Cheap Gas Grills Last?
The typical American will purchase a new barbecue once every three years. However, you can significantly extend its lifespan if you perform regular maintenance and get repairs done when needed.
Conclusion
Due to how convenient and affordable it is, a gas grill is a must-have for everyone who enjoys outdoor cooking.
You might think you need to spend a lot of money to get a good-quality gas grill. But, if you look around, you’ll find plenty of great options at affordable prices. I hope this article can help you find the best cheap gas grill.