There is a range of different types of grills to suit your home and garden. Grills are cooking applications we use to barbecue, smoke, roast, and bake foods. These appliances are typically reserved for garden spaces, but some models fit your home kitchens or travel needs. Distinct fuel sources and designs define the different types of grills, as well as their respective maintenance requirements, price range, benefits, and drawbacks.
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Reviewing the different types of grills gives you insight into what to expect. Models vary according to whether they use charcoal, electric, pellet, or gas. All four power sources present advantages and disadvantages. For example, charcoal and pellets enhance your food with a smoky flavor and are ideal for BBQ. However, they require more clean-up, must stay in your garden space due to the smoke they generate, and pose a slightly steeper learning curve.
Gas grills segment into natural gas or propane tanks. They’re convenient and easy to use due to their quick heat-up times, but lack the smoky flavor that enthusiasts prize and require a safe connection. Meanwhile, electric grills are both environmentally safe and user-friendly. Many are designed for both your home and garden, but they likewise lack a smoky flavor profile.
Grill designs similarly pose pros and cons. Flat-tops, infrared, built-ins, kettle, and kamado are some distinct types of grills that use one or more of the described fuel sources. Drawbacks and benefits range from different price points to ease of use and versatility. That said, grills enhance your home and garden regardless of which model you buy. They provide a fun and engaging cooking experience where you’re able to entertain others and create delicious dishes. Modern models are additionally convenient to use, minimize maintenance, and provide features to improve your cooking experience.
Picking a grill that suits your space is ultimately up to you, your preferences, and your budget. There’s a range of models and brands, including top-tier selections like Weber, Napoleon, and Traeger that accommodate your needs. Our article explores this and more, including tips on how to choose a grill to buy.
We’ll go over the following types of grills, their features, maintenance needs, and general price points below.
- Pellet Grills: These grills use wood pellets for fuel, providing a smoky flavor to the food and allowing for precise temperature control through an electronic system.
- Gas Grills: These utilize natural gas or propane. Gas grills offer convenience and quick heating, making them a popular choice for outdoor cooking.
- Propane Grills: Similar to gas grills but specifically designed for propane fuel, these grills are portable and offer easy heat control for grilling.
- Charcoal Grills: Favored for their ability to impart a rich, smoky flavor, charcoal grills require charcoal briquettes or lump charcoal as fuel and offer a traditional grilling experience.
- Electric Grills: Ideal for indoor use or where open flames are prohibited, electric grills heat food using electric elements and require access to an electrical outlet.
- Flat-Top Grills: Also known as griddles, these grills have a flat cooking surface, making them perfect for cooking a wide variety of foods, from breakfast items to burgers.
- Portable Gas Grills: This class of grills is compact and easy to transport. Portable gas grills are perfect for tailgating, camping, or picnics, offering the convenience of gas cooking on the go.
- Infrared Grills: These grills use infrared technology to heat food directly, resulting in faster cooking times and reduced flare-ups, while still providing excellent searing capabilities.
- Kettle Grills: Characterized by their dome-shaped lid and circular cooking area. Kettle grills are versatile charcoal grills that excel at both direct and indirect grilling.
- Kamado Grills: Kamado grills offer excellent heat retention and versatility, allowing for grilling, smoking, and even baking due to their heavy ceramic construction.
- Built-In Grills: Designed to be incorporated into outdoor kitchens. Built-in grills offer a seamless look and are typically powered by natural gas or propane.
- Smokers: Specialize in cooking food low and slow. Smokers infuse meats and other foods with a smoky flavor and are available in various fuel types, including wood, charcoal, electric, and gas.
1. Pellet grills
Pellet grills are a type of outdoor grill that uses compressed wood byproducts called pellets as a fuel source. Joe Traeger invented pellet grills in 1987, which grew in popularity after other brands adopted Traeger’s concept. Today, these grills are famous because they combine the benefits of traditional charcoal grills with the convenience of electric appliances. They impart food with a smoky flavor with less maintenance or oversight and feature digital controls to simplify heat management. Entry-level prices for pellet models reside between $200 to $400 and extend to $2,000 or more for luxury options.
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Designs for pellet grills additionally vary. The signature model by Traeger is free-standing, which means it is a self-contained unit with legs and a cart. Other models range from built-in, tabletop, to portable, suiting various customer needs. Proper maintenance of these models consists of cleaning the grates and burn pot, managing grease, and keeping the pellet hopper (the storage container) dry.
Pellet grills pose both advantages and disadvantages. They suit garden spaces as they excel at smoking at low temperatures and grilling at high heat. Their ease of use and versatile cooking appeal to both novices and experienced buyers. Alternative options like hybrid pellet and gas grills demonstrate quick heating times and the ability to switch between fuel types for flavor or convenience. As a result, pellets are ideal alternatives to charcoal as they similarly enhance food with a smoky flavor. However, pellet grills are more costly. Furthermore, they require electricity to run, which limits their portability. Overall satisfaction depends on your budget and whether you want to match convenience with flavor and versatility at a higher markup.
2. Gas grills
Gas grills are grills that use natural gas or liquid propane to power metal burners. Gas models are among the most popular types of grills due to their convenience. They heat up quickly, feature knobs for temperature control, and often offer several burners. They additionally feature beginner-friendly advantages such as minimal cleanup, easy plug-in, and broad price points. For instance, entry-level prices start as low as $100 and extend to more high-end offerings of $1,500 or more.
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There are different types of gas grills including tabletops, flat-tops, built-ins, and hybrids. Each comes in a variety of sizes and materials, from compact and transportable stainless steel to outdoor, cast aluminum installations. Maintenance additionally varies between size and model, but regular cleaning is necessary for consistent performance. You must clean the grates, burners, and any debris after use, and periodically check the gas line for leaks to ensure safety.
Furthermore, gas grills require adequate ventilation and are consequently only ideal for your outdoor space. Their foremost advantage is their convenience, heat control, and minimal preheating time. Meanwhile, a notable disadvantage is their flavor profile. The lack of hot coals in gas grills doesn’t enrich your food with a smoky flavor like pellets or charcoals will. Additionally, a quality gas-powered grill may be more expensive than charcoal or pellet depending on the brand. However, this is offset by the lowered cost of its fuel source and general ease of use.
3. Propane grills
Propane grills are a subset of gas grills that exclusively use liquid propane (LP). Other types of gas grills use natural gas, but propane is a popular alternative because it offers portability and convenience. You can move propane tanks and store them without needing a fixed gas line. Propane additionally burns hotter than natural gas—meaning you potentially need less fuel to achieve the same cooking temperatures as its counterpart. Other features include simplified temperature control and ease of use for beginners.
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Prices of propane grills range from $100 to $1,000 or more. The best propane grills offer quick heat-up times and various amenities, such as multiple burners, built-in thermometers, or side tables. Maintenance is similarly straightforward as natural gas counterparts. Clean the grates regularly (preferably after every use), check the gas connection, and replace and store the tank as needed. Additionally, propane grills suit outdoor settings and require appropriate ventilation due to the smoke they emit.
The most notable advantage of propane grills is their easy set-up and portability. Not every model is optimal for transport, but many are suitable for camping or long-distance travel and streamline usage for on-the-move buyers. However, like their counterparts, propane tanks can’t achieve the same smoky flavor as pellet or charcoal options. Furthermore, the repurchase of tanks adds to initial costs, which might affect overall satisfaction for frequent grillers. As a result, propane grills are best for buyers who prefer quick and efficient cooking over long-term cost savings.
4. Charcoal grills
Charcoal grills are traditional grills that use charcoal briquettes or lump charcoal for fuel. Charcoal is the quintessential option for grilling as it cooks at high heat and leaves dishes with a distinct smoky flavor not found in electric or gas options. Charcoal grills are additionally versatile. You’re able to smoke, bake, sear, and slow-cook with a quality model. A broad price range also backs the extensive usage of this type of grill. You’ll find options as low as $50 and as high as $1,000 or more.
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Furthermore, there are different types of charcoal grills. Kettle, barrel, and kamado are among the most distinct variations. Maintenance for these models varies but generally entails more effort than other types of grills like natural gas or electric. For instance, you must remove ash after each use, clean the grates, and ensure no debris interferes with airflow or heating as you cook.
The primary benefit of charcoal grills is their flavor profile and high-temperature cooking. However, this flavor and heat results in smoke, making charcoal models best suited for outdoor settings. This presents a barrier for buyers with no gardens or limited outdoor spaces. Another drawback arises from their learning curve and fuel purchase. Other types of outdoor grills like gas or electric are easier to learn, while charcoal’s high-heat management and longer prep take some time to master. Likewise, charcoal must be replaced which is less efficient than a natural gas line or electric installation.
5. Electric grills
Electric grills are home and garden appliances that use electricity to heat grill grates and cook food. Electric grills plug into an outlet and do not generate open flames unlike gas, pellet, or charcoal options. They’re additionally more distinct in design. They’re often compact or embody traditional models with larger cooking surfaces. You’ll find compact electric grills as low as $100. Meanwhile, larger or more advanced versions are as high as $500 or more.
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Similar to previous types, electric grills offer several different designs and materials. Freestanding, built-in, portable, flat-top, and tabletop offer electric plug-ins, with options for steel, aluminum, and cast iron. The exact maintenance depends on the overall design of your grill but is more straightforward than gas, pellet, or charcoal. This is because there is no fuel debris to clean or propane tank to replace. You simply need to wipe down the cooking surface, remove grease, and cool and store the grill according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Electric grills offer other benefits and drawbacks. For example, they’re easy to use due to their lack of combustion, which helps prevent burns and overcooking. They’re also suitable for indoor or outdoor cooking due to their size and minimal smoke generated. That said, electricity does not enhance food with a smoky flavor. Furthermore, it has a lower heat ranger and depends on a power element to function, which impedes outdoor usage.
6. Flat-top grills
Flat-top grills are a type of grill with a flat surface as opposed to grates. Flat-tops (otherwise known as girdles) do not have a distinct fuel type. You’ll find models that accommodate gas, charcoal, electric, or pellet. The primary feature of this type of grill is its wider surface area, which is ideal for cooking several dishes at once, as well as foods that would otherwise slip through grates such as eggs or pancakes. The price range for flat-tops hinges on their size, features, and fuel type. Some models start at $100 while others exceed $1,000, particularly large-scale flat-tops seen in commercial kitchens.
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You’ll find various models for flat-tops, including free-standing, portable, and built-in models. Maintenance involves cleaning and properly seasoning the flat surface to prevent rust, grease, and food build-up. The type of fuel source you use impacts other maintenance routines. For instance, you’ll need to secure and replace propane tanks or clean up ash from charcoal after every use.
Flat-top grills are primarily designed for outdoor use. However, it’s possible to purchase smaller, electric models for indoor use. The main benefit of flat-top grills is their flat surface, which cooks food evenly and is easy to clean up. However, this same surface requires conditioning to create a non-stick layer and avoid rust. This involves spreading a thin layer of high-smoke-point oil and cooking it until it smokes. Doing so requires more time and effort, and risks inefficiency if not done correctly, which may be a downside for some buyers.
7. Portable gas grills
Portable gas grills are compact, movable outdoor cooking devices. They’re a subset of traditional gas grills that you use for camping and travel. These grills typically run off propane tanks rather than natural gas connections to match their portability. Most portable options accommodate propane tanks between 14 and 16 oz, though some models offer attachments for larger tanks. Portable gas grills additionally come at a lower price point compared to their traditional counterparts. For instance, you’ll find options between $50 and $250 with offerings for more advanced features.
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Additionally, you’ll find a range of portable gas grill models. Most feature the tabletop design, which is safe to use atop surfaces. Others include a foldable suitcase design for simplified storage, mounted fixtures to attach to vertical surfaces, or grate and flat-top combinations for varied cooking. The size of the grill simplifies maintenance but varies according to the type of design you opt for.
The main advantage of portable gas grills is their mobility and ease of use. Like standard gas grills, they heat up quickly and maintain their temperature. They’re a popular option for either beginners or frequent travelers as a result. That said, the size of portable gas grills limits you to a small number of dishes and feeding one or two people. The usage of smaller propane tanks aids portability, but fuel replacement adds to their initial upfront cost. That said, the grills boast usability and satisfy customer needs if convenience is your primary goal.
8. Infrared grills
Infrared grills are modern cooking devices that use infrared technology to cook food. An infrared element applies heat directly to the food, whereas conventional selections heat the air around it. This allows for very high temperatures and fast cooking times. Infrared grills additionally utilize various fuel sources, including propane, natural gas, or electricity. Price points are generally higher than conventional grills, standing between $500 to $1,000 or more.
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Many infrared grills are hybrids. This means they provide both conventional options and infrared heating elements. More advanced options provide side burners, better build quality, and accessories like rotisserie attachments. Most are for outdoor grilling due to their smoke and fuel type, but some models are for safe indoor use and include features like smoke and odor control. Maintenance involves regular surface cleaning and, depending on the fuel source, checking gas connections or electrical components for safety.
The main benefit of infrared grills is that they cook at intense, uniform heat without the use of open flames. This cooks food like steak quickly and evenly, reduces flare-ups, and lessens the usage of fat. However, the grills’ high heat and fast application may lead to overcooking, which presents a learning curve for first-time buyers. Infrared grills additionally lack the smoky flavor of charcoal, come at higher price points than other types of outdoor grills, and are impractical for more delicate food items, like fish or vegetables. As a result, users who appreciate the efficiency and feel comfortable working with a hybrid model to cook other items at a lower heat will find these grills more satisfactory.
9. Kettle grills
Kettle grills are dome-shaped, outdoor grills that emphasize versatility and portability. This type of grill uses charcoal as its fuel source, which enhances food with a smoky flavor. The recognizable shape and design of kettle grills stem from the original 1951 model by Weber, which features a steel charcoal grate and two sets of vents. The original concept has remained largely unchanged since its introduction, making it a staple among barbecue enthusiasts. Additionally, its price points are more affordable than other types of outdoor grills. Basic models sometimes cost as low as $50 with premium models available for $500 or more.
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Most kettle models are free-standing, though some designs include a cart with wheels or more compact features for portability. Any variations of kettle grills are ideal for outdoor use only because they utilize charcoal, which emits smoke and poses a safety hazard without proper ventilation. Additionally, maintaining your kettle grills is similar to any other charcoal appliance. Clean out the ash and grates with each use, and properly store it to avoid rust.
Furthermore, kettle grills pose similar advantages and disadvantages as other kinds of charcoal-fueled applications. The best kettle grills present versatility and efficiency. The dome design allows for proper heat circulation and the option to cook with direct or indirect heat. You’re consequently able to grill, smoke, and roast your foods. Additionally, the compact design makes them easy to transport. However, temperature management, limited cooking spaces, and more maintenance make up the major cons of kettle options. Gas and electric are comparatively easier to use but lack the kettle grills’ flavor profile and versatility that satisfies buyers.
10. Kamado grills
Kamado grills are egg-shaped grills made of ceramic and glazed exteriors. They use lump charcoal as their primary fuel source and demonstrate versatile, high-temperature cooking. Lump charcoal tends to burn hotter and longer than other types of hot coals, making its inclusion more fuel-efficient. Additionally, the grills’ egg shape and material prevent heat loss. This in turn allows for food to cook evenly and retain moisture.
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Prices for Kamado grills vary according to the brand, size, and additional features. Basic models begin around $350 while more advanced versions exceed $1,000 or more. This type of grill is usually free-standing with the most notable variation being size. You’ll find compact and portable kamados to larger iterations that feed groups of people. Size impacts maintenance, and generally consists of cleaning ash build-up, scrubbing grates, and checking the integrity of the ceramic.
Kamado grills are ideal for outdoor use because of their fuel source and demonstrate several advantages and drawbacks. For example, kamados are versatile and accommodate grilling, smoking, roasting, and baking due to their precise temperature control. The use of ceramic retains heat and promotes fuel efficiency. Conversely, most kamados are heavy yet fragile because of their ceramic body. You must handle them with care or risk damage. Comparison between kamados versus gas or electric grills highlights more tedious clean-up and storage for the former. That said, customer satisfaction is high due to its versatility, durability, and efficiency as a distinctive charcoal grill.
11. Built-in grills
Built-in grills are permanent installations for your home and garden. This type of grill centers on long-term functionality and caters to charcoal, gas, electric, or pellet fuel sources. Additionally, the grills are usually large and thus suit gardens or outdoor spaces that accommodate their size. Price points for built-in models also vary significantly. Basic, economic models come in as low as $500 while luxury selections range from $3,000 or higher.
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The types of models you’ll find for built-in grills vary according to brand. Economic options are often more compact but sport less durability. Luxury choices offer high-grade materials, digital controls, and surfaces to accommodate cooking for large groups. Meanwhile, maintenance depends on the fuel type. Expect regular cleaning of the grates and interior as well as checks on gas connections or charcoal and ash management.
The best built-in BBQ grills emphasize permanence and durability. Consequently, buyers need to invest in a mid to higher-end grill rather than an economical or used built-in model to get the most out of their purchase. Doing so ensures your grill to withstand frequent use as well as the elements. Built-ins tout advantages such as consistent high performance, enhanced temperatures, and added features like rotisseries, side burners, or integrated lighting. However, built-in grills are fixed. This means careful planning of your outdoor kitchen is necessary from the outset. Installations additionally pose higher up-front costs as a permanent fixture.
12. Smokers
Smokers are outdoor appliances that cook food at low temperatures. These appliances use smoke from wood, charcoal, or pellets. They are distinct from most grills but serve a similar function. For instance, they impart food with a smoky flavor and act as an extra feature of some versatile grills. Prices for standalone smokers vary widely. For example, entry-level models often reside at $100 while advanced models stand at $1,000 or more.
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Smokers range from cast iron and ceramic to portable, hybrid units. The material of the smoker affects its heat retention, durability, maintenance needs, and overall performance. Smokers additionally separate into direct or indirect heat types, which determines how you apply the heat source. Meanwhile, maintenance consists of routine cleaning to remove ash, grease, and food residue, as well as ensuring smoke flow and flavor infusion.
The main advantage of smokers over different types of grills is their slow cooking. They infuse food with a unique aroma that’s difficult to achieve on conventional grills. However, the slow cooking process requires patience and practice. Safe heat, smoke, and fuel management additionally pose a barrier for first-time users. Customer satisfaction hinges on your appreciation of slow-cooked BBQ smokers and whether you’d prefer a dedicated model or hybrid option for a more diverse outdoor experience.
How does a grill improve your home and garden?
A grill improves your home and garden by enhancing your cooking experience. One of the foremost benefits of owning a grill is cooking high-quality meals outdoors. For example, open-flame applications like charcoal or pellet cook food evenly and leave it with a smokey flavor many people find enjoyable. This encourages you to prepare more dishes at home and create flavors that ovens and stovetops cannot replicate.
Additionally, grills offer entertainment value and convenience. They’re an incentive to host barbecues, a common outdoor pastime, and make feeding large groups more enjoyable due to their versatility. Clean-up is often straightforward as most grills feature durable materials and do not deteriorate from the elements or stain easily from use. Adding to their convenience is storage. Many grills feature compact designs and are easy to store away during the colder months, making it a more efficient application for your garden and home.
Are grills good for the environment?
Yes, grills can be good for the environment as their use is not highly pollutant. A report from the Illinois Sustainable Technology Center (ISTC), “Charcoal vs. Gas – A Sustainability Question,” writes that grills annually account for 0.0003% of the United States’ carbon emissions. This means grilling is not as damaging as other applications. However, it’s possible to minimize your impact further by using your fuel type selectively and cooking outdoors during the warmer months to offset any electric or gas costs.
Additionally, some grills are more environmentally friendly than others. For instance, gas, electric, and gas models are the best options for the environment. Traditional charcoal grills emit more carbon dioxide compared to their counterparts, making them less environmentally friendly. Meanwhile, electric grills offer the least emissions and tap into clean energy sources like solar or wind power if available in your location. Gas grills are less inefficient than electric options, but remain cleaner than charcoal due to their fuel type. Pellet grills are similarly efficient and offset their emissions by using biomass (wood pellets) as a fuel source. This makes them a sustainable choice as wood is a renewable resource.
How to choose a type of grill to buy?
Choosing what type of grill to buy depends on your needs, preferences, and home and garden set-up. Grills vary from brand to brand with broader types exhibiting pros and cons. Be mindful of your budget and how you intend to use your purchase before you make a final decision.
The list below provides general instructions on how to select a grill.
- Set your budget: Your first step is to specify your budget for your grill. Prices range significantly, with higher costs typically ensuring more features and durability. On the other hand, entry-level and budget options are ideal for first-time buyers or people interested in a smaller grill.
- Assess your space: Your second step is to evaluate your space. Address the size of your garden, and whether it’s suitable for a large, medium, or small grill. Consider if you have the appropriate space to store a grill during the colder seasons. Alternatively, if you want to buy an indoor or portable model, determine where it’ll be located and if it’s safe to use in your home.
- Think about portability: Modern grills come with a variety of features, including portability. Some models provide foldable legs and carrying handles. Others—such as electric options—are relatively lightweight and compact, making them ideal for transport and long-term storage. Larger grills often feature wheels but may require more space and effort to transport due to their size and weight.
- Determine the cooking you’ll do: Next, reflect on the meals you plan to cook. Different types of grills suit different types of cooking. For example, gas grills suit quick, convenient cooking. Meanwhile, charcoal or pellet grills are better for smoky flavors and high heat.
- Consider fuel type: There’s an array of fuel types to choose from, namely charcoal, gas, electric, or pellet. Each has its advantages and drawbacks, including budget, safety, and storage. For example, gas grills require a safe connection to propane or natural gas. Conversely, pellet grills depend on a consistent pellet supply which must be stored in a dry, cool place.
- Evaluate environmental impact: Grills are not highly detrimental to the environment, but they do leave a carbon footprint. For eco-friendly options, electric models have the lowest emissions, especially when powered by renewable energy. Pellet grills are another green choice as they utilize renewable biomass as a fuel source.
- Consider maintenance: Keep in mind the maintenance your grill will require and how often you intend to use it. Some are easier to maintain than others due to their design and materials. For example, stainless steel grills resist rust and are easier to clean, whereas cast iron grates require regular seasoning to maintain their non-stick surface.
- Check out customer feedback: Research reviews and customer ratings to gain insights into the grill’s performance and reliability. Additionally, watch hands-on video reviews to get a realistic look at the type of grill you want, its size, and how to maintain it. Pay attention to additional features like side burners or temperature controls that might enhance your experience.
What are the best grill brands?
The list below outlines the best grill brands.
- Weber: Weber is an American brand that offers charcoal, gas, and electric grills. Weber is a well-known selection as they created the kettle grill, which sports a distinctive dome shape. The company’s offerings are comprehensive and provide a range of sizes and features for charcoal and gas models. They’re ideal for both beginners and experienced buyers due to their quality, ease of use, and accessories.
- Traeger: Traeger is another American brand famous for pioneering the pellet grill. Their signature model, the Original Wood-Fired Grill, features a unique pellet-fed system that delivers consistent, controlled heat. Other Traeger models continue this trend and allow for versatile cooking, smoky flavor profiles, and digital controls to simplify usage.
- Napoleon: Napoleon is a Canadian brand that offers a range of high-quality gas and charcoal grills. They center on outdoor applications and employ their signature Jetfire ignition for quick combustion. Napoleon models sport advanced features, including infrared cooking and cast iron or stainless steel wave grids for even heat distribution.
- Everdure by Heston Blumenthal: Everdure provides luxury grills with a modern design and advanced features. The brand is the result of a collaboration with British celebrity chef Heston Blumenthal. Their selection delivers durable models, quick roasting, high temperatures, as well as sleek aesthetics for buyers who wish to pair grilling with style.
- Char-Broil: Char-Broil is an American brand that offers gas, flat-tops, built-in, charcoal, electric, and portable grills. Due to its extensive selection, buyers value Char-Broil for its ability to cater to different cooking styles and preferences. The brand is additionally known for its broad price points and TRU-Infrared cooking technology, which provides even heat distribution and reduces flare-ups.
What is the best type of grill?
The best type of grill depends on your cooking preferences, space, and budget. Different types of grills present advantages and disadvantages that suit different customers. For example, select a larger charcoal, gas, propane, or pellet grill if you have the space or budget for outdoor cooking. Make sure your garden has the correct outlets and fixtures to accommodate any type of outdoor application, including its fuel type. Budget-wise, infrared grills exist at the high end whereas common options like charcoal or gas have broader price points. Opt for a smaller item like an electric grill if you want to cook indoors. Alternatively, choose a portable propane model if you plan to barbecue on your camping trip. Be mindful of your cooking preference, such as whether you like slow-cooking, quick-fire meals, or feeding a small or large group of people.
Cooking preference is of special importance because it affects the flavors of the food you make and how much clean-up they entail. For instance, charcoal grills are popular due to the smoky flavor profile they embolden food with. They’re relatively easy to use and provide efficient heat control but produce ash and require diligent maintenance. Meanwhile, electric grills are ideal if you want to grill inside your home. They’re smaller than most options, are eco-friendly, and easy to clean up but lack the smoky flavor charcoal or pellet provides. Ultimately, the best grill meets your specific needs in terms of flavor, convenience, and versatility. Keep these factors in mind as they’ll help you determine your final chance.
What is the best grill for outdoors?
The best outdoor grill varies with gas, propane, charcoal, and pellet models being the preferred options. Natural gas and propane are convenient and provide effective temperature control, from quick to slow roasting. They also come in portable options. Likewise, charcoal grills are ideal for outdoor cooking due to their flavor profile. There is a slightly steeper learning curve for beginners, but flavor and varied cooking techniques outweigh this. Pellet grills are another choice. They’re ecologically beneficial due to using biomass as fuel, and, like charcoal, they take time to learn but promote a rich flavor profile.
That said, the best outdoor grill for you depends on your budget, garden space, and intended usage. Conduct research to narrow down the right selection for you and follow manufacturer guidelines to ensure outdoor safety.
What is the best grill for indoors?
The best grill for indoor use is the electric grill. Electric options produce minimal smoke and require no open flame to cook due to their lack of combustion. Consequently, they pose less risk of inhaling carbon dioxide and other harmful chemicals. Indoor grilling machines still require appropriate ventilation, however, which is where the size of electric grills comes in handy. They fit in small spaces, such as apartments or covered patios, where outdoor access might be a concern. Additionally, many models come with features to capture or reduce smoke and odors, making them ideal for indoor grilling without setting off smoke alarms. A smaller size additionally means electric grills are easy to move around and safely store away once it’s been appropriately cleaned and cooled.
What is the best grill for BBQ?
The best BBQ grills utilize charcoal. Charcoal grills offer the traditional smoky flavor cherished in barbecue. Different types of BBQ grills offer dynamic temperature control, with charcoal delivering the high heat attributed to authentic barbecue dishes. Scientist Greg Blonder expands on the value of using charcoal for BBQ. According to his blog genuineideas, and the page “Smoke Flavor,” hardwood embers at 650°F to 750°F produce the best flavor for barbecue.
Your second-best bet is pellet grills, which offer smokiness with more consistency and less effort than charcoal. Pellet models maintain a steady temperature, allowing for the slow cooking vital to barbeque. However, BBQ enthusiasts prefer charcoal due to its temperature control which caramelizes meats and imparts a time-honored flavor.
What is the easiest type of grill to use?
The easiest types of grills to use are gas and electric grills. Gas grills have simplified controls, which makes temperature management straightforward for beginners or those who prefer convenience over mastery. Gas models additionally require minimal preparation due to their fuel type, quick ignition systems, and easy cleanup. Meanwhile, electric grills are beginner-friendly because they lack any kind of combustion. They only require you to plug into an outlet. Heat is set by controls and produces minimal smoke, which is ideal for indoor spaces and first-time buyers. Furthermore, electric options leave no ash or cinders and are easy to clean and store away due to their compact size.
What is the safest type of grill?
The safest type of grill is the electric grill. These types of grills are designed for indoors and smaller spaces where ventilation is more compact. They produce minimal smoke, limit inhalation risks, and lack the safety issues that open flames, gas leaks, and hot coals or pellets pose. Many additionally feature safety mechanisms to prevent fires, such as automatic shut-off. Following electric models are gas grills. They’re beginner-friendly with the safest gas options offering secure connections and easy-to-use temperature control.
Is a charcoal grill safer than a gas grill?
No, charcoal grills are not necessarily safer than gas grills. Both pose their safety concerns but exhibit different risks. For example, charcoal grills produce more carbon monoxide and other harmful chemicals when burning. This encourages you to cook at low heat and outdoors with proper ventilation to avoid toxic inhalation. Open flames and hot coals likewise pose a danger, leading to burns or fires if not handled appropriately.
Gas grills, on the other hand, are generally cleaner and pose less risk of direct inhalation. However, gas leaks are both toxic and flammable, so you must secure and maintain your gas line connection. Both require diligent cleaning to avoid the buildup of grease and debris. Neglecting to do so leads to dangerous flare-ups and potentially starting a fire. Neither type is inherently safer than the other and thus depends on you to use them responsibly with regular maintenance.
Are grills high maintenance?
No, grills aren’t inherently high maintenance because their upkeep varies. The size, fuel type, storage, and usage of the grill determine how often you need to maintain it. Size affects the amount of surface area you need to clean and the amount of fuel you need to manage. For instance, large propane grills mean you must spend more time cleaning the grates and burners. You also must regularly check and refill the propane tank to avoid leaks and ensure performance. Other fuel types like charcoal or pellets require specific cleaning routines and storage. Meanwhile, electric grills are the easiest to maintain. They generally only need a wipe-down after use and an occasional check-up on electrical components.
Storage is another factor. Harsh winters lead to cold and moisture damage so you must store your grill appropriately. Additionally, you need to clean and inspect your grill with every use to ensure it’s safe to cook with. If you do not use your grill regularly, you still need to plan for periodic cleanings and follow maintenance guidelines, especially if it’s exposed to the elements. Doing so ensures the model remains in good condition, extends its lifespan, and maintains optimal performance whenever you choose to use it.
When is the best time to buy a grill?
The best time to buy a grill is during the off-season between late summer and early fall or major sales. The off-season offers several advantages, namely discounts and fewer buyers to compete with. Retailers often slash prices after peak season (mid-summer) to clear out inventory for new models. However, one disadvantage the off-season poses is that there is less variety of grills available, which limits your selection.
Consequently, the next best option is major holiday sales where inventory is full but sells quickly. Memorial Day, Fourth of July, and Labor Day offer significant discounts. July is particularly lucrative, as the month is peak grilling season and discounts tend to drop further after the Fourth of July. You’re likely to save money during either of these periods but be mindful of inventory and try to plan ahead to get the best offerings.