Finding the perfect gas grill without breaking the bank can be a challenge. This year's market offers a surprising number of high-quality options under $500, each boasting unique features and benefits. Whether you're a seasoned grilling pro or a backyard barbecue beginner, choosing the right grill depends on your individual needs and priorities. Do you need a large cooking surface for feeding crowds? Or is portability more important for tailgating or camping trips? Perhaps even heat distribution and build quality are your top concerns.This review delves into the top five best gas grills available for under $500 in 2023. We've carefully compared models from leading brands like Char-Broil, Weber, Cuisinart, Royal Gourmet, and Dyna-Glo, considering factors like BTU output, cooking surface area, features, and overall value. Read on to discover which grill best aligns with your grilling style and budget, and get ready to elevate your outdoor cooking experience.
Pros And Cons
- Eight burners (104,000 BTUs total)
- 950 square inches of cooking space
- 1/4-inch porcelain-coated wire grates
- Integrated folding windscreen
- Two folding side tables
- Two-level bottom shelves for storage
- Lidless
- Performs well with four burners
- Large cooking surface
- Even heat distribution due to stainless steel heat tents
- Shelves on each side, one with a built-in burner for extra cooking space
- Lightweight (under 10 pounds)
- Foldable legs
- Large carrying handle
- Locking lid
- Compact design, good for transport
- Versatile
- Reliable performance
- Porcelain enameled steel firebox
- Three stainless steel burners
- Compact design
- Collapsible side tables
- Even heat distribution
- Large cooking surface
- Easy to assemble
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Char-Broil Performance 46377319 Gas Grill
The Char-Broil Performance gas grill is a popular choice, boasting four burners and a large cooking surface for even heat distribution thanks to its stainless steel heat tents. It includes convenient side shelves – one for prep and another with a built-in burner for extra cooking space. This grill offers excellent value for its price point.
The even heat distribution ensures consistent cooking results, and the extra burner adds versatility for larger meals or side dishes. The side shelves provide ample space for preparation and serving, improving the overall cooking experience. It's a strong contender in the under-$500 category.
Weber Spirit 2e 310 3-Burner Gas Grill
The Weber Spirit 2e 310 is another strong contender, known for its attractive design and sturdy cart. With three burners delivering 30,000 BTUs, it heats up quickly and evenly, reaching 500 degrees in minutes. The ample side tables and six tool hooks add to its convenience and functionality.
The even heating ensures consistent cooking, preventing hot spots. The side tables provide ample workspace for prepping and serving, while the tool hooks keep grilling essentials organized and within easy reach. Its larger grilling space is ideal for feeding a family or a small group.
Cuisinart CGG-059 Grillster Portable Gas Grill
For portability and convenience, the Cuisinart CGG-059 Grillster is a top choice. Weighing under 10 pounds with foldable legs, a carrying handle, and a locking lid, it's ideal for camping, tailgating, or small spaces. Despite its compact size, it's surprisingly large enough for grilling for several people.
Its lightweight and compact design make it perfect for on-the-go grilling. The foldable legs and locking lid ensure easy transport and storage. The value it offers for its price is exceptionally good, making it a great option for occasional grilling.
Royal Gourmet GB18008 8-Burner Gas Grill
The Royal Gourmet GB18008 is a powerhouse, featuring eight burners producing a massive 104,000 BTUs. With a vast 950 square inches of cooking space, it's perfect for large gatherings. The porcelain-coated wire grates provide excellent grill marks, and folding side tables and shelves offer ample storage.
The high BTU output ensures powerful and even heating across the extensive cooking surface. The durable grates create excellent grill marks, and the ample storage and side tables make it practical for large-scale grilling. Though lidless, the windscreen protects against breezes.
Dyna-Glo DGB390BNP Smart Space Living 3-Burner Gas Grill
The Dyna-Glo DGB390BNP offers reliable performance and a compact design, perfect for smaller spaces. Its porcelain-enameled steel firebox and three stainless steel burners deliver even heat distribution. Collapsible side tables increase its practicality, saving space when not in use.
The even heat distribution ensures consistent cooking results, even with a smaller footprint. The collapsible side tables are a space-saving feature ideal for patios and decks. The easy assembly and use add to its convenience. A smart choice for those wanting high performance without sacrificing space.
Conclusion: Which Grill Reigns Supreme?
Each grill offers unique advantages. The Char-Broil excels in value and features, the Weber in build quality and even heating, and the Cuisinart in portability. The Royal Gourmet is a champion of sheer power and cooking space, while the Dyna-Glo offers a nice balance of performance and compact design. The best choice depends on your specific needs and budget.
Consider your priorities: Large cooking surface? Portability? Powerful BTU output? Once you weigh these factors, you can easily select the grill that will best suit your needs. All these models offer good value, so you can't go wrong with any of them.