With summer’s heat making indoor cooking unbearable, outdoor grilling offers a fantastic alternative. It brings delicious, flavorful meals with minimal preparation and often adds an element of enjoyment to the process. After evaluating over 80 grills in the past year, the team has refined their criteria to identify the best options.
The top picks not only deliver outstanding performance but are also user-friendly, durable, and easy to maintain. In their quest to find the best grills, attention was given to factors such as heat retention and temperature control, ensuring that food remains properly cooked even if you need to step away for a moment. Whether you’re an experienced griller or just starting out, there’s a grill on the list to suit every level of expertise.
In A Hurry? Here Are Our Favorite Picks…
 | Weber Genesis EX-325S Smart Gas Grill | ||
 | Weber Performer Deluxe Charcoal Grill | ||
 | Weber Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill | ||
 | Weber Traveler Portable Gas Grill | ||
 | PK Grills Original PK300 Grill and Smoker |
Weber Genesis EX-325S Smart Gas Grill
The Weber Genesis EX-325s distinguished itself not only through its advanced smart technology but also for its exceptional performance and design. With 39,000 BTUs and a 513-square-inch main cooking grate, it grilled burgers and steaks to perfection.
There were minor issues, such as a small flare-up when lightly oiling the grate before cooking vegetables, and some areas above the burners were hotter than others.
The digital control panel was a standout feature, integrating seamlessly with two included probe thermometers. This setup connects to the Weber smartphone app, offering temperature alerts as well as access to recipes and maintenance guides.
The app maintained a connection for about 30 yards, adding notable convenience. However, it would have been beneficial to control the burners directly through the app, rather than having to walk back and forth.
Pros:
Delivers exceptional performance
Offers a generously sized grilling area
Provides precise temperature control
Durable and suitable for all skill levels
Cons:
Lacks burner control via the app
Weber Performer Deluxe Charcoal Grill
Charcoal grills, while beloved for their flavor, come with their own set of challenges. Lighting them can be a hassle, cleaning them is often messy, and a damp bag of charcoal can ruin a barbecue.
These common issues are precisely why the Weber Performer Deluxe stands out. With its exceptional performance and thoughtful design, this grill is a fantastic addition to any outdoor space.
During an extended test where a full rack of baby back ribs was smoked, the Weber Performer Deluxe performed impressively. Throughout the cooking session, the temperature remained remarkably stable, fluctuating by only 10 degrees.
The built-in thermometer consistently showed slightly higher readings compared to the infrared thermometer, but adjusting the heat was straightforward thanks to the easily adjustable dampers and vents.
One minor drawback emerged during the long cooking process: adding charcoal through the circular opening in the grate proved challenging. However, the gas ignition system simplified lighting the coals, and the grill’s cleaning system proved to be highly effective. The extra-long side prep table and the charcoal storage area beneath added to its convenience, enhancing the overall grilling experience.
Pros:
Expansive prep area and ample storage
Convenient gas ignition system
Simple adjustments for dampers and vents
Cons:
Challenging to adjust coals through the grate
Weber Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill
For those seeking a budget-friendly standalone grill, a charcoal model is often the most economical choice due to its simplicity and lack of electronic components. Among budget options, the classic Weber Original kettle-style grill stands out as a top choice.
Its straightforward design and absence of advanced features make it incredibly user-friendly and easy to assemble in under 15 minutes.
In their testing, users found that once familiar with adjusting the dampers, even beginners can achieve excellent grilling results. The porcelain-coated lid and bowl effectively trap heat inside, enhancing cooking performance.
However, the built-in thermometer occasionally provides inaccurate readings. To ensure precise cooking temperatures for items like burgers and hot dogs, it’s advisable to use an additional thermometer.
Pros:
Proven reliability as a time-tested cooking tool, making it a dependable choice.
Features a classic, compact design that fits well in various outdoor spaces.
User-friendly, perfect for those new to grilling who appreciate simplicity.
Cons:
The built-in thermometer can sometimes provide inaccurate readings, requiring a separate thermometer for precise cooking.
Weber Traveler Portable Gas Grill
Portable grills often evoke images of smaller kettle grills or barrel smokers, but after a month of testing various models, the collapsible Weber portable gas grill stood out as a top performer. The convenience of collapsing the grill and wheeling it into place was a welcome feature, eliminating the need to carry heavy parts or the entire grill over long distances.
The grill impressed with its performance. Once connected to a gas source—either a 1-pound canister or a 20-pound tank—it reached temperatures up to 660 degrees. This high heat is ideal for searing steak or achieving a crispy pizza crust.
The built-in thermometer provided accurate readings throughout testing, so there’s no need to bring an extra thermometer. For those planning to grill while camping or at night, adding a grill light might be useful for visibility.
However, there were a few downsides. The 320-square-inch cooking grate showed some uneven heating when the lid was left open, though this issue largely resolved when the lid was closed. Additionally, the grill required some effort to clean after use.
Pros:
Innovative fold-flat design for easy transport and storage.
Generous cooking surface that accommodates various dishes.
Cons:
Higher price point compared to other portable grills.
PK Grills Original PK300 Grill and Smoker
For those seeking a grill that offers versatility and a touch of innovation, the PK Grills PK300 is an excellent choice. This distinctive grill stands out with its ability to perform both direct and indirect cooking.
Additionally, it features a unique design that allows it to be detached from its base for use as a portable grill. The team tested both the original and the updated “new original” versions and found both to be highly commendable.
The PK300’s performance is attributed to its durable cast-aluminum construction, which excels at retaining heat, and its efficient four-vent system, which includes two dampers and two vents. This setup facilitates high-temperature grilling and optimal airflow for low-and-slow smoking.
The updated model boasts several enhancements, including a snug-fitting lid, extended handles on the vents, and a slot for a probe thermometer. However, it does not come with a built-in thermometer. Given the grill’s ability to reach high temperatures quickly, having a probe or instant-read thermometer on hand is advisable. Despite an accidental over-charring of a steak during testing, the PK300 proved to be one of the most impressive grills encountered.
Pros:
Easy to set up and use.
Ideal for tailgating and outdoor activities.
Includes a convenient built-in side table.
Cons:
Ventilation system requires some practice.
Final Thoughts
When evaluating different grills, several key factors come into play, from size and performance to ease of use and additional features. Each grill type and model offers unique advantages tailored to specific needs, whether you’re looking for versatility, portability, or advanced technology.
Features such as cooking space, heat retention, and temperature control can significantly impact your grilling experience. Additionally, conveniences like built-in thermometers, side tables, and efficient ignition systems can enhance overall satisfaction.
Choosing the right grill involves balancing these factors with personal preferences and cooking habits. Whether you prioritize a classic charcoal grill, a feature-rich gas model, or a compact portable option, understanding the strengths and limitations of each will help ensure you select the best fit for your outdoor cooking endeavors.
