--- title: "The Best Gas Grills Under $500" description: "If you’re looking for the best gas grills under $500, we’ve compiled a selection of some of the top models. See our list of top picks." date: "2023-06-02" modified: "2023-06-02" authors: - name: "Tony Carrick" job_title: "Contributing Writer" link: "https://www.bobvila.com/authors/tony-carrick/" url: "https://www.bobvila.com/articles/best-gas-grills-under-500/" categories: - "Grills" - "Lawn & Garden" - "Outdoor Kitchens" - "Outdoor Living" - "Reviews" tags: - "appliance" - "choose" - "Commerce" - "deck patio & porch" - "MPR" - "outdoor kitchens" - "outdoor tools" - "Product Category Reviews" --- # The Best Gas Grills Under $500 ![A woman sitting at an outdoor table full of food and drinks while a man stands holding tongs next to the best gas grill under $500]() *Photo: homedepot.com* At $1,000 or more, a high-end gas grill is a pricey enhancement to your outdoor living space, but it doesn’t have to be. You can find [quality gas grills]() with durable construction in a wide range of sizes at or below $500, from [portable models]() suitable for a balcony to six-burner monsters that can feed a crowd. Affordable gas grills come in attractive painted or stainless steel finishes, and many models boast additional bells and whistles, such as side burners, integrated meat thermometers, and electronic ignitions. Keep reading to discover which features may be available in a gas grill at this price point, and learn why the picks described here are among the best on the market. 1. **BEST OVERALL:** [Weber Spirit II E-210 2-Burner Propane Grill]() 2. **BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK:** [Nexgrill Deluxe 2-Burner Propane Gas Grill]() 3. **BEST MIDSIZE:** [Kenmore 3-Burner Propane Gas Grill]() 4. **BEST MULTI-FUEL:** [Char-Griller Flavor Pro 4-Burner Gas Grill]() 5. **BEST PORTABLE:** [Weber Q2200 Liquid Propane Grill]() 6. **BEST INFRARED:** [Char-Broil Performance TRU-Infrared 3-Burner Grill]() 7. **ST 2-BURNER:** [Cuisinart CGG-306 Chef’s Style Portable Gas Grill]() 8. **BEST LARGE:** [Monument Grills Larger 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill]() 9. **BEST COMPACT:** [Fuego Element Hinged Propane Gas Grill]() [![The Best Gas Grills Under $500 Option]()]() *Photo: homedepot.com* ## How We Chose the Best Gas Grills Under $500 We considered a few important factors when compiling this review of the best gas grills under $500. As an outdoor appliance, a gas grill is subject to some pretty harsh conditions, so build quality is critical. We only chose grills made with cast aluminum or stainless steel, both of which create a sturdy structure that won’t wobble while also resisting rust and corrosion. We also limited our search to gas grills with porcelain-coated grates, which, although not indestructible, offer the best cooking performance for gas grills. A grill’s heat output as related to the size of the cooking surface is a key performance factor. We only chose grills that produce at least 80 British thermal units (BTUs) per square inch of cooking surface, which is the minimum amount needed to evenly heat food. (For more information on BTUs, read the section **Burner Number and BTUs** that appears after our product reviews.) Additional important features include side burners, prep areas, and advanced technology such as built-in meat thermometers. Finally, we took aesthetics into account, leaning toward grills that hid their gas tanks and had stainless steel finishes versus those with exposed tanks and enamel paint coatings. ## Our Top Picks The gas grills in this list, which include [smaller grills]() for those with space limitations, large models with numerous burners, and lightweight portable options for camping and tailgating, come from some of the top [brands](). All the grills feature quality build and ample heat output. Weber’s Spirit—the kid brother of the brand’s higher-end Genesis line—benefits from the durable design and advanced technology features of its pricier sibling. While the Spirit II may lack a stainless steel finish and concealed tank, its cooking parts, which include a porcelain-enameled cooking grate and stainless steel heat deflector, make it one of the more durable grills available for under $500. This model also features “flavorizer” bars under the cooking surface that reduce flare-ups while creating smoke to add flavor. It also boasts iGrill 3 wireless, which enables the chef to monitor temperatures for up to four items via a smart device (with the purchase of a compatible meat thermometer). **Get the Weber Spirit II gas grill at [Amazon](), [Lowe's](), or [The Home Depot]().** This quality Nexgrill model features two burners that put out a combined 28,000 BTUs, which is plenty of heat for its 385.16 square inches of cooking space (including the warming rack). The Nexgrill also comes with convenient features, including all-weather wheels that let the chef maneuver the grill into place, a removable grease tray for drippings, and hooks that hold three grill tools. In addition to its bold fire-engine red color, the Nexgrill boasts an aesthetically pleasing streamlined design that becomes even sleeker when the side shelves are folded down. A covered cabinet hides the propane tank from view. **Get the Nexgrill gas grill at [Amazon]() or [The Home Depot]() (red model).** This Kenmore grill presents a step up from the smaller models that dominate the under-$500 price range. With three stainless steel burners and a 30,000-BTU output, it’s versatile, allowing the grill master to create three separate cooking zones. Its more than 512 square inches of cooking space can handle a few dozen burgers or a couple of steaks and multiple sides. Two side tables provide prep space. The Kenmore is also one of the more stylish grills going, thanks to the streamlined look of its pedestal base. The three-burner grill is unusual in that it comes in seven color options, so you can coordinate it to suit the style of your outdoor living space. **Get the Kenmore gas grill at [Wayfair]() or [The Home Depot]().** Its ability to use gas, wood, and/or charcoal from its innovative flavor drawer makes this Char-Griller model an attractive option for those who like the convenience of gas but miss the flavor of charcoal. Its unique design consists of four 10,000-BTU burners set below a drawer that houses charcoal, wood, or pellets at the same time. The gas burners ignite these materials, creating smoke that infuses food with flavor. In addition to the four burners, heat can be managed through two smokestack dampers that control airflow to the wood and charcoal. A slide-out tray makes it easier to clean up ashes after grilling. The Flavor Pro comes equipped with two large side tables for prep work and hooks for grill tools. **Get the Char-Griller gas grill at [The Home Depot]().** With a compact size and the ability to fold, Weber’s Q2200 gas grill is ideal for tailgating, camping trips, and other excursions. It boasts 280 square inches of cooking area, which is fairly large for a portable grill. Side tables fold out on either side, adding prep space. Its single stainless steel burner puts out 12,000 BTUs, which is plenty of heat for the size of the cooking area. An electronic ignition makes the grill easy to start, while a large knob provides flame control. With a rugged cast-aluminum lid and stainless steel burners, the Q2200 is one of the more durable portable gas grills on the market. The grill can run off standard 20-pound propane tanks or smaller 1-pound cylinders. **Get the Weber Q2200 gas grill at [Amazon]() or [The Home Depot]().** Those who like the perfect sear will want to consider this Char-Broil model. Its three burners create even heat and a sear on steaks and other meats. A 450-square-inch cooking surface provides ample space for food. And while its three burners emit just 24,000 BTUs, significantly less than other three-burner grills, its infrared technology makes up for that, efficiently directing heat toward the cooking surface. Like other Char-Broil Performance Series grills, this model is one of the more affordable stainless steel options on the market. Other nice features include two large side tables, a 10,000-BTU side burner, and a swing-away warming rack. **Get the Char-Broil gas grill at [Amazon]().** The Cuisinart two-burner gas grill offers the cooking ability of a freestanding grill, but in portable form. In many ways, it does this successfully. There is 275 square inches of grilling area with an output of up to 20,000 BTUs. A built-in handle makes it easy to carry, and it weighs under 30 pounds. There are clips to make sure it stays closed when being carried. High-quality components are used throughout. There’s a useful temperature gauge in the lid, twist-start electronic ignition, and two dials for independent heating zones. The Cuisinart gas grill is very popular, though some feel it is a little awkward to clean. In standard form, it uses a 20-pound gas bottle. According to buyers, adapters are available for 1-pound disposable bottles, but these cost extra. **Get the Cuisinart gas grill at [Amazon](), [The Home Depot](), or [BBQ Guys]().** With a budget of only $500, it can be a challenge to find a gas grill big enough to feed a large family or group of friends at a [backyard cookout](). This model from Monument Grills is a very affordable solution. There are four main burners, plus a useful side burner, providing a total of 723 square inches of cooking area. With 60,000 BTUs available, there’s plenty of heating power, too. Included in the impressive feature set are a powered rotisserie kit and porcelain-coated cast-iron grates. Flame tamers reduce flare-ups and direct the heat where it’s most needed, and cool-blue LED control knobs offer clear visibility as it gets dark. Given the size and performance, the Monument gas grill offers great value for money. **Get the Monument Grills gas grill at [The Home Depot]().** Many [types of grills](), even portable models, take up considerable space. Yards and gardens in modern urban homes can often be small, so finding a grill that will fit and still offers enough space to cook for all the family can be difficult. The award-winning design of the Fuego gas grill overcomes this problem. With the lid closed it has a footprint of only 21 inches square. Yet it still offers 346 square inches of cooking area and 22,000 BTU of heat. Maximum heat of 650 degrees Fahrenheit provides excellent searing. Grease drops straight through to a residue tray for easy cleaning. The propane gas bottle is neatly hidden within the body. Where space allows, a side table can be fitted for extra preparation space. The compact Fuego gas grill also has an optional griddle plate and pizza stone for added cooking versatility. **Get the Fuego gas grill at [Amazon]() or [The Home Depot]().** ## [Jump to Our Top Picks](<#recap>) ## What to Consider When Choosing a Gas Grill Under $500 When selecting a gas grill, consider several factors, including size, build quality, and heat output. Ahead, learn more about these and other gas grill characteristics. ### Size and Cooking Area When shopping for a grill, the first consideration is usually its size. While a large grill can cook a lot of food at one time and provide prep space on its side tables, it also occupies a good deal of space on a deck, balcony, or patio. Size, of course, also determines a grill’s portability. Grill size is generally described in terms of the cooking surface, which is usually provided in square inches. Grills at the under-$500 level come in a range of sizes, from portable models with about 250 square inches of cooking surface to large flat-top grills with more than 700 square inches of cooking space. A mid-tier grill with approximately 400 square inches of cooking area measures around 4 feet long, while 600-square-inch models are closer to 5 feet long. ### Build Quality Build quality determines how long a grill will last, and the $500 models are at the low- to mid-tier level. A grill at this price point typically has a body made of folded sheet metal with some plastic parts. Though not as durable as the solid all-metal materials used in more expensive grills, it’s still fairly high-quality. Most grills at this price point have enamel coatings versus fancier all-stainless steel finishes, although a few stainless steel models can be found for [under $500](). ### Grate Material Since the grate on any grill typically wears out before the rest of the appliance and can be costly to replace, the grill’s grate material is an important consideration. On the best gas grills under $500, the grate material is porcelain-coated iron, which does an excellent job of retaining heat while resisting rust. However, porcelain-coated grates eventually rust as the protective coating wears off and the iron core is exposed to air and moisture. Most grills also have warming grates, which consist of stainless steel. ### Burner Number and BTUs A gas grill’s ability to reach temperatures high enough to sear that perfect char on steaks and burgers is directly related to how much heat it can put out. Like gas heaters, the heat output for gas grills is measured in the BTUs each of its burners produces. A gas grill with four 10,000-BTU burners produces a total of 40,000 BTUs. The larger the grill cooking surface, the more BTUs it needs to evenly heat the surface. As a rule of thumb, a good gas grill should produce between 80 and 100 BTUs per square inch. For example, a grill with 450 square inches of cooking surface should have enough burners to produce 36,000 to 40,000 BTUs of heat. Some gas grills include a sear burner, which emits 15,000 BTUs, to produce the high temperature required to achieve a brown crust on meat. ### Fuel Source [Gas grills]() use either propane or natural gas for fuel. Very few pure natural gas grills are at the $500 price point, as the grills that typically use this fuel type are high-end built-in grills. Most gas grills under $500 use liquid propane, which comes in 20-pound fuel tanks or 1-pound canisters for small, portable models. Some propane gas grills under $500 can be converted to a natural gas grill with an extra conversion kit. Some dual-fuel propane gas grills also burn wood or charcoal. ### Additional Features Many gas grills come with additional features designed to make grilling easier, such as electronic ignition systems that eliminate the need to use a lighter or match, fuel gauges that allow the chef to monitor the amount of gas left in the tank, and side burners for cooking sauces and side dishes. Some grills even come with a wireless meat thermometer system that can let the cook monitor food temperature from a smartphone. “Flavorizer” bars vaporize meat juices to create smoke to flavor the food. ## The Advantages of Owning One of the Best Gas Grills Under $500 While high-end grills have attractive features, there’s much to be said for the performance of grills under $500. In addition to costing less, they feature ample BTU outputs for the size of their grilling surfaces and come in a surprisingly wide range of size choices. Grills in this price range include portable models as well as large six-burner units. A quality grill at this price range generally offers excellent bang for its buck because its lifespan is similar to a high-end grill. - Ample BTU output for cooking - Similar lifespan as more expensive grills - Wide range of size options ## FAQs If you’re wondering how to maintain your new gas grill or how long you can expect it to last, then read below to find answers to these and other burning questions about these outdoor cooking appliances. ## Author Tony Carrick is a freelance writer who has contributed to BobVila.com since 2020. He writes how-to articles and product reviews in the areas of lawn and garden, home maintenance, home improvement, auto maintenance, housewares, and technology. ### Author social links [LinkedIn]()