Gas Grill Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right One
Whether you're a backyard BBQ pro or shopping for your first upgrade, a gas grill can completely transform your outdoor cooking experience. From compact 2-burner models perfect for patios to feature-packed gas grills built for large gatherings, there’s a wide variety of options to explore. In this gas grill buying guide , we’ll break down the key features, sizes, fuel types, and accessories to consider—helping you choose a grill that fits your space, cooking style, and budget. Whether you're focused on convenience, performance, or versatility, this guide will help you make a confident, well-informed decision.
How to Choose the Best Gas Grill Setup for Your Outdoor Space
Selecting the right gas grill starts with choosing the setup that best fits your outdoor cooking style—whether it's a built-in, freestanding, or portable model. Each type offers unique advantages: built-in gas grills are perfect for custom outdoor kitchens, freestanding grills provide flexibility and storage, and portable gas grills are ideal for tailgating or small patios. If you want to expand your grilling capabilities, consider pairing your gas grill with a flat top griddle for even more cooking versatility. From searing steaks to sautéing veggies, the right grill configuration can help you create a setup that’s built for performance and tailored to your space.
Built-In Gas Grills
Built-in gas grills—also known as drop-in grill heads or inserts—are designed to be permanently installed into custom BBQ islands or outdoor kitchen setups. These grills offer a seamless, integrated look , often paired with matching components like side burners, refrigerators, and storage drawers to create a fully functional outdoor cooking station . A built-in gas grill not only elevates your backyard’s aesthetic but also serves as a social centerpiece for gatherings and meals.
In addition to enhancing your grilling experience, a high-quality built-in model can increase your home’s resale value , making it a smart investment for homeowners who love to entertain. With sleek designs, powerful performance, and long-lasting materials, built-in gas grills offer the ultimate combination of style, durability, and culinary performance.
Freestanding gas grills are a top choice for flexibility and convenience in any outdoor cooking space. Mounted on a movable cart with built-in storage , these grills are easy to reposition and ideal for patios, decks, or renters who need a non-permanent setup. Many freestanding gas grills include features like enclosed cabinets for propane tanks and grilling tools , keeping everything you need within arm’s reach.
For even more functionality, choose a model with a side burner —perfect for whipping up side dishes, simmering sauces, or sautéing vegetables while your main course grills. Whether you're reconfiguring your layout or taking your grill on the go, a freestanding gas grill delivers the freedom, storage, and performance you need to enjoy a seamless outdoor cooking experience.
Portable gas grills are the perfect solution for grilling on the go—whether you’re camping, tailgating, or simply cooking in a smaller outdoor space. Designed for convenience and mobility , these compact grills are lightweight, easy to transport, and quick to set up. Despite their smaller footprint, many portable gas grills still offer impressive heat output and durable cooking grates, allowing you to enjoy delicious grilled meals wherever your adventures take you.
Ideal for balconies, RV trips, or picnics, these grills run on small propane canisters or connect to portable tanks for extended use. Some models even feature folding legs, carrying handles, or latching lids for added functionality. If you’re looking for a compact, travel-ready grill that doesn’t compromise on flavor or performance, a portable gas grill is a must-have for your outdoor cooking lineup.
Choose the Right Fuel Type: Propane vs. Natural Gas
Gas grills are powered by either propane or natural gas, and while both deliver similar cooking performance, the right choice depends on your setup and convenience. From a grilling standpoint, propane and natural gas provide comparable heat output and grilling results, and most models are available in either fuel type at similar price points. However, it’s important to make your selection before you purchase , as switching fuel sources later requires a conversion kit and must be done by a licensed professional —in many cases, DIY conversions may void your grill’s warranty.
If your home is already equipped with a natural gas line, a natural gas grill can offer long-term convenience and cost savings. On the other hand, propane grills offer mobility and easier setup , making them ideal for freestanding or portable configurations. Ultimately, your decision should be based on fuel availability, connection requirements, and lifestyle needs .
Natural Gas Grills
If your home is already connected to a natural gas line, opting for a natural gas grill is one of the most convenient choices you can make. Much like electricity or water, natural gas provides a continuous fuel supply —no more last-minute propane refills or running out mid-cookout. This makes it a popular option for built-in grill setups and outdoor kitchen islands , where permanence and reliability are key.
With a natural gas grill , you’ll enjoy uninterrupted grilling sessions and the freedom to cook as often and as long as you like. It’s the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it fuel source , perfect for frequent grillers who value convenience and efficiency. Eliminate fuel worries and enjoy consistent, hassle-free outdoor cooking with a natural gas-powered grill that’s always ready to perform.
If your home doesn’t have a natural gas line, a propane gas grill is a highly convenient and flexible option. Propane tanks—especially the standard 20-pound cylinders —are widely available at grocery stores, home improvement centers, and gas stations, and can be easily refilled or exchanged at most local propane distributors.
While propane does require a bit more hands-on fuel management, it gives you the major benefit of portability . Without being tied to a permanent gas line, you can move your grill around freely , whether you're reconfiguring your backyard setup or taking it to a tailgate or cabin. If you're looking for a fuel source that offers convenience, wide availability, and added mobility , a propane gas grill is an excellent choice for your outdoor cooking lifestyle.
How to Choose the Best Gas Grill Size for Your Needs
When it comes to gas grills, size truly matters—especially if you want to cook efficiently and confidently. The cooking surface area and number of burners on your grill directly impact what and how much you can prepare at once. Larger gas grills, often featuring between 3 to 8 main burners , allow for advanced techniques like multi-zone cooking , where you can sear, roast, and warm food simultaneously.
Not sure which size is best for you? Start by thinking about how many people you typically cook for, the maximum crowd you entertain, and how often you host. Then explore grill size categories— Small, Medium, Large, and XL —to match your cooking needs. Remember: while you can always turn burners off on a larger grill, you can't add space to a smaller one. So plan for growth, not just your current needs, and choose a gas grill size that offers flexibility for both everyday meals and big backyard BBQs.
Small Gas Grills (0"-26")
Small gas grills—typically 26 inches wide or less with 1 to 3 burners—are ideal for compact spaces and smaller households. These compact grills are great for cooking full meals for couples or small families, and they can handle up to a dozen burgers at once without breaking a sweat. While fewer burners may limit your ability to create multiple temperature zones or practice indirect cooking , the trade-off is worthwhile for many.
Thanks to their space-saving design and easy portability , small gas grills are perfect for balconies, patios, and mobile setups like RVs. If you're seeking a grill that combines efficiency, simplicity, and versatility without taking up much room, a compact gas grill offers an excellent balance between size and performance.
Medium gas grills typically range from 27 to 33 inches wide and offer between 2 to 4 burners, depending on the brand and model. These grills strike the perfect balance between size and functionality—providing enough cooking space for families and small gatherings while supporting indirect heat setups for more advanced grilling techniques.
In addition to their versatility, many medium-sized gas grills come with premium upgrades like side burners , rotisserie burners , and integrated storage—features that open the door to more creative outdoor meals. If you're looking for a backyard grill that delivers performance, flexibility, and value, this size category offers a great mix of convenience and capability. Learn more about these feature-rich grills and find the perfect match for your outdoor cooking needs.
Large gas grills typically measure between 34 and 42 inches wide and come equipped with 3 to 6 burners, offering everything you need for high-capacity, versatile outdoor cooking. With ample surface area and multiple burners, these grills are ideal for multi-zone grilling , allowing you to slow roast over indirect heat while simultaneously searing, sautéing, or warming sides.
Whether you're cooking for a large family or hosting neighborhood cookouts, a large gas grill makes it easy to prepare multiple dishes at once without sacrificing control or flavor. From sizzling burgers to slow-cooked ribs, this grill size gives you the flexibility and space to master every meal with confidence. It’s the perfect pick for grillers who love to entertain and need a setup that can keep up.
If you’re the go-to grill master for tailgates, holidays, or big family gatherings, an extra-large gas grill is built to match your passion. These XL grills feature a massive cooking surface of 43 inches or more , often equipped with up to 8 powerful burners to handle high-volume cooking with ease. Whether you're grilling for a crowd or preparing multiple dishes at once, this size class gives you unmatched flexibility and performance.
Perfect for serious entertainers, many extra-large gas grills come loaded with premium features like rotisserie systems , infrared sear zones , and built-in storage cabinets to streamline your cooking process. With more space, more burners, and more control, an XL gas grill delivers the firepower you need to cook like a pro and leave a lasting impression.
Choosing the best gas grill starts with understanding your unique cooking style and outdoor space. Whether you're a weekend griller who enjoys relaxed family meals or a backyard chef who thrives on entertaining large crowds, selecting the right grill size and fuel type is essential. If your focus is on quick meals for a few people, a compact 2-burner gas grill might be all you need. But if you love experimenting with complex recipes, cooking multiple dishes, or hosting guests, consider a larger model with 4 to 6 burners , multiple heat zones, and room to spare.
Also, think about the fuel type that supports your grilling habits— propane offers portability and convenience, while natural gas provides a steady, never-ending fuel supply. And if you crave that classic smoky flavor, you might even explore charcoal or hybrid models . Tailoring your gas grill to match your cooking preferences will ensure every BBQ session feels effortless and satisfying.
What to Consider Before Buying a Gas Grill
Before finalizing your gas grill purchase, it’s important to evaluate a few key factors that can impact your long-term grilling satisfaction. Start by measuring your available outdoor space —your grill should fit comfortably without crowding your patio, especially if you plan to add extras like side tables, prep areas, or storage cabinets. Next, assess the cooking capacity . Make sure the grill size and burner count match your typical guest count and the variety of foods you enjoy preparing.
If you’re looking to expand your outdoor cooking skills, opt for grills with upgraded features like side burners , rotisserie attachments , or smoker boxes , which add versatility to your setup. Also, think about ease of cleaning and maintenance —some grills come with removable drip trays and grease management systems that make cleanup quicker and less of a chore.
By weighing these practical considerations— space, capacity, features, and upkeep —you’ll be set to choose a gas grill that not only fits your lifestyle but also enhances your entire outdoor cooking experience.
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