Gas Grills
Best Gas Grills for Everyday Backyard Cooking
4 picks compared
8 min read
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?How we pickedWe compare published specifications, safety certifications and thousands of verified owner reviews, and we do not physically test every unit. Read the full process in our review methodology.
Weber Spirit II E-310 Gas Grill
★★★★★ 4.7 / 5 Best Overall
The Spirit II E-310 is a three-burner propane grill with Weber's GS4 system, including improved burners and a fuel gauge, and it delivers reliable, even heat for everyday cooking. The porcelain-enameled cast iron grates hold heat well for good sear marks. It offers a lot of Weber quality without stepping up to the larger Genesis line.
Burners 3Primary cooking area About 424 sq inGrates Porcelain-enameled cast ironFuel Liquid propaneFeatures Built-in fuel gauge
- Even heat and dependable ignition
- Solid Weber build with a strong warranty
- Compact footprint for its cooking space
- No side burner on the base model
- Open cart design instead of an enclosed cabinet
Char-Broil Performance Series 4-Burner Gas Grill
★★★★★ 4.3 / 5 Best Value
This four-burner propane grill gives you a lot of cooking space and a side burner at an approachable price. The porcelain-coated grates and lidded design handle burgers, chicken and vegetables for a family without fuss. It is a practical pick for people who want room to cook without a premium outlay.
Burners 4 plus side burnerPrimary cooking area About 425 sq inGrates Porcelain-coatedFuel Liquid propaneIgnition Electronic
- Generous cooking space and a side burner
- Easy to assemble and use
- Good value for larger cooks
- Build feels lighter than premium grills
- Heat can be less even across the surface
Weber Q2200 Portable Gas Grill
★★★★★ 4.6 / 5 Best Portable
The Q2200 is a compact single-burner propane grill that punches above its size, with cast iron grates that sear well and a design that runs off small canisters or a tank with an adapter. It is a favorite for balconies, tailgates and small patios. Setup and cleanup are quick.
Burners 1Cooking area About 280 sq inGrates Porcelain-enameled cast ironFuel Propane, canister or tank with adapterIgnition Push-button
- Excellent heat retention for its size
- Great for balconies, camping and tailgates
- Easy to clean and store
- Limited cooking space for big groups
- Needs an adapter and hose to run off a 20 lb tank
Weber Genesis E-325s Gas Grill
★★★★★ 4.7 / 5 Premium Pick
The Genesis E-325s is a three-burner propane grill with a powerful, even burner system, a large main grilling area and a side burner for sauces and sides. The enclosed cabinet and sturdy build make it a long-term backyard centerpiece. It is a step up in capacity and refinement over the Spirit line.
Burners 3 plus side burnerPrimary cooking area About 513 sq inGrates Porcelain-enameled cast ironFuel Liquid propaneStorage Enclosed cabinet
- Large, even cooking area
- Strong build and long warranty
- Side burner and cabinet storage
- Larger footprint needs more space
- Premium price for the tier
How many burners you need
Burner count drives both capacity and flexibility. Two burners suit couples and small patios, three burners cover most families and let you set up direct and indirect zones, and four or more are best for frequent large cookouts. More burners also mean a bigger footprint and higher fuel use.
Grate material matters
Porcelain-enameled cast iron grates hold heat well and give strong sear marks, while stainless steel grates resist rust and are easy to maintain. Thicker grates recover heat faster after you open the lid. Whatever the material, keep them clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
BTUs are not everything
A high BTU rating does not automatically mean a better grill. Even heat distribution, good lid insulation and quality grates matter more for real cooking results. A well-built three-burner often outperforms a cheap grill with a higher BTU number.
Propane versus natural gas
Most grills ship set up for liquid propane from a 20-pound tank, which is portable and widely available. If you have a natural gas line, some models offer a natural gas version or conversion, which means never running out mid-cook. Do not convert a grill yourself unless it is designed for it.
Common mistakes to avoid
Buying more grill than your space or cooking habits require is a frequent regret, as is skipping a fitted cover that protects against rust. Not preheating long enough leads to sticking, and you should never grill in an enclosed area or garage. Check your tank connections for leaks each season.
Who each grill is for
The Weber Spirit II E-310 is the best all-around choice for most families, the Char-Broil Performance 4-Burner suits big cooks on a budget, the Weber Q2200 is ideal for small spaces and travel, and the Genesis E-325s is the premium backyard upgrade.
How we picked
We compared current, US-available models on the specifications that matter, alongside verified owner feedback. This is a research-based comparison; we did not physically test every product. Confirm the exact model and its current recall status on cpsc.gov before buying.
Questions people ask
How many burners do I really need?
For most households a three-burner grill is the sweet spot, giving you enough room for a family meal and the ability to create direct and indirect heat zones. Couples or small-patio owners can do fine with two burners, while frequent entertainers benefit from four or more. Bigger grills also use more fuel.
Are cast iron or stainless steel grates better?
Porcelain-enameled cast iron grates retain heat well and produce excellent sear marks, which many grillers prefer. Stainless steel grates are lighter, resist rust and are simple to maintain. Both work well if you keep them clean and oiled, so it comes down to your priorities.
How long should a good gas grill last?
With regular cleaning, a fitted cover and occasional part replacement, a well-built grill can last many years. Higher-end models from brands like Weber often come with long warranties on burners and other components. Rust and neglected grates are the most common reasons grills wear out early.
The bottom lineSo which one?
The Weber Spirit II E-310 is our best overall gas grill thanks to its even heat, durable build and family-friendly size. Choose the Char-Broil Performance 4-Burner for maximum space on a budget, the Weber Q2200 for portability, and the Genesis E-325s if you want a premium, larger backyard setup.
