Credit: architecturaldigest.com
Even a casual search for the best grills can surface an overwhelming number of bulky options and an equally overwhelming number of questions: What type of temperature control are you looking for? Do you have a natural-gas setup? How many BTUs are you working with? Suddenly, getting your outdoor cooking situation set up has become pretty complicated.
But if you, like us, are more are more of a casual BBQ enthusiast who hopes the grill you’re firing up is more of a lightweight looker than a leviathan grilling machine, we’re here with a few recommendations based on a slightly different set of standards: first and foremost style, followed by functionality, size, and price—only three options on the list top $500. Pair these with some beautiful outdoor furniture to complete your setup, learn how to clean them up post-feasting, and you’ll be one step closer to ultimate grillmaster status.
Our Top Picks for the Best Grills:
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Gas Grills
Gas grills are a fast-heating variety that typically run on propane, though some can be converted to run on natural gas (not recommended for an apartment or a rental). That means you’ll have to keep an eye on your propane levels and be prepared to stock up before any party. Gas grills are convenient and allow for slightly more control over temperature and cooking style than a charcoal grill, but they’ll lack that smoky BBQ flavor.
Best Gas Grill
The full stainless-steel finish makes this high-rated, heavy-duty Nexgrill a sleek contender. With an electric igniter, warming rack, ample cooking space, and built-in thermometer for even temperature control, it’s got solid beginner cred, as well as a compartment for hiding away a propane tank to maintain its streamlined design.
A Cool Gas Grill
The Everdure is the most expensive grill on our list, but it’s backed up with cooking chops. The hood shape promotes even, convection-like cooking, and each of the two burners is independently controlled. It boasts a five-minute preheat time and two types of cooking plates—one cast-iron and one standard grill—for varying styles. It’s also available in several shades to customize for your patio.
Most Low-Profile
If you want to skip out on the grill hood and opt for something that won’t take up as much room, a flat-top griddle might be what you’re looking for. With foldable side shelves, tool hooks, a paper towel holder, and electronic ignition, it’s approachable and makes things easier without proving to be an eyesore.
Charcoal and Pellet Grills
If you’ve got a bit more patience and love the smoky flavor that comes with a charcoal grill, you’ll likely be rewarded with a lower price tag. Charcoal grills also tend to be smaller in size and are slightly more practical in terms of upkeep (no replacement tanks, no gas hookups). All you’ll need is a bag of briquettes and a few cooking accessories to get you on the road to grillmaster glory.
Best Pellet Smoker
Traeger grills are some of the most popular you can find on the market, and for good reason. Both stylish and sturdy, you can take your pick from a black and bronze finish. When it comes to the grilling ability, this Pro 575 edition is top-tier. Grill enthusiasts sing its praises for the straightforward assembly, WiFi connectivity to control it from afar, and versatility to grill, smoke, bake, roast, braise, and barbecue in one cooking appliance.
A Campsite Essential
If you’d rather forego a campfire from scratch, this Snowpeak charcoal grill will be a worthy centerpiece for your next outdoor adventure. It’s perfectly portable thanks to its foldable design. Design enthusiasts will appreciate this: Aside from its good-looking stainless steel and modular silhouette, it is also a Good Design Award recipient for its unique structure, sturdiness, and ease of use.
Classic Kamado Grill
The Big Green Egg might be a staple among the grilling community, but if you ask us, it’s just as cool for those who have an eye for design. One look at it and you’ll see that the grill lives up to its name style-wise. And in terms of quality, it gets high remarks for its heat and moisture retention.
A Small-Size Option
Just looking at this will leave you craving some good brisket and barbecue. While it comes at a budget price and petite size perfect for a patio, this model prioritizes form just as much as function. The cooking area is big enough to cook a whole rotisserie chicken with indirect heat and comes with a convenient side shelf to keep cooking essentials within arm’s reach. All of it is encased in a barrel-style cooker that’s accented with quaint touches of wood so you won’t always be throwing the cover back over it when you’re done.
Most Classic Look
It’s called an original for a reason. Perhaps one of the most recognizable grills on the market, this classic model from Weber—a brand also known for their liquid propane Weber Genesis E-325 and Weber Spirit II—is functional in design at its affordable best. You can’t cook a whole hog on it (though it is available in a larger size and more colors), but it fits all of our design, space, and price criteria.
Best Charcoal Grill
An upgrade on the Weber classic, the Performer Deluxe has several features that might be worth the extra investment, including an ignition button for lighting your lump charcoal, a built-in holder for the lid, and an automated cleaning system to spare you the effort.
Tabletop and Portable Grills
Maybe you’re not looking to build a full outdoor kitchen, or you’re a fan of camping, tailgating, or the casual outdoor snack. That’s where these small-scale options come in handy.
A Vibrant Pick
This small but mighty portable grill boasts just as much versatility as it does style. It comes with an all-in-one design that includes a bamboo cutting board for food prep. Plus, its stainless steel cooking rack can leave seared steaks with grill marks just like a full-size barbecue. Round that out with a variety of neutral and vibrant colors to choose from and you’ve got a great cooking accessory to bring along for picnics, tailgates, and everything in-between.
Most Discreet Portable Grill
Weighing in at 22 pounds, this tiny gas grill has several smart design features: a wooden lid that also acts as a cutting board, a handle with a rubber grip, and a porcelain-coated cooking surface for a quick clean.
Most Modern Look
Known for its minimalist, ergonomic French presses, Bodum also manufactures adorable portable grills with cheerful, bright red silicone handles and shiny chrome exteriors.
Most Stylish Portable Design
Name a cuter dining companion than this charcoal-powered tabletop barbecue. It’s designed to be portable, folding up like a standard-size briefcase while looking like something from a Wes Anderson movie.
Best Color Options
Another model from Weber, we like this portable, electric type of grill from the brand for the five different stylish colorways you can buy it in, but it’s a really quality machine as well—despite its smaller cooking area. It’s got high heat of 600 degrees Fahrenheit that allows you to sear, smoke, steam, or boil veggies, chicken, steak, and more—and then keep warm to serve buffet-style when you’re ready. Worried about cleanup? Never fear. There’s a front-access grease tray that makes it easy-peasy.
