Gas Grill Buying Guide

You've decided the charcoal-grilling phase of your life is over, and you're ready to venture into the world of gas grilling. You probably have questions about the specific advantages of gas grills, as well as the styles of grills available, and we're here to help. You'll find all the info you need here in our gas grill buying guide!

Gas Grill Benefits

Talk to any fan of gas grilling, and you'll find there's no shortage of compelling reasons for their preference. Here are a few of the major benefits of gas grilling over charcoal or wood pellet grills.

• No Added Flavor. Allow us to clarify this one: Many people prefer charcoal grills or smokers specifically BECAUSE of the flavor it adds to the food, and that's okay! However, other folks prefer a more standalone flavor from their outdoor grilling, and would rather "taste the meat, not the heat." If this sounds like you, a gas grill is definitely your choice.
• Quick and Easy Operation. Turn it on, cook your food, turn it off. It's as simple as that. No crumpled-up newspapers, no guesswork on adding more coals, and no dusty clouds during cleanup. A gas grill is the clear winner for anyone looking for a low-maintenance grilling experience.
• Superior Control. Gas grills feature knobs on independently-adjustable burners to give you superior control over cooking temperature. Instead of just piling up coals on one side of the grill, you'll be able to set an exact temperature and easily adjust it up or down as needed.

Natural Gas vs. Propane

A gas grill can be powered by either propane or natural gas, and it's important to know the difference before you make your purchase. Believe or not, there aren't any major differences between natural gas grills and propane grills when it comes to performance or results. The main distinction between these two options is convenience. Propane is a fuel that's required to be purchased in tanks, and any experienced grillmaster can attest to how irritating it is to run out of fuel halfway through a barbecue. If your home already has a gas line, piping into it for your barbecue grill means you'll always have a fuel supply. However, getting a gas connection for your grill means taking on the project of having the extra connection added to your gas line by a professional. Choosing between propane and natural gas really comes down to accessibility and your personal priorities.

How to Choose a Gas Grill Style

Now that you know the benefits, here are the different types of gas grills to choose from. Think about your budget, the size of your outdoor space, and how you'll most often be using it.

• Freestanding Gas Grill: These are the typical styles that come to mind when you think of a gas grill. They're a grill on four legs that usually have casters on the bottom to allow easy adjustments in placement. These grills are available in a variety of sizes to suit any cooking volume, outdoor space or budget, with models ranging from two burners up to six burners. Many models include extras like a prep table, rotisserie, side burners, and accessory storage.
• Portable Gas Grill: Are you looking for a gas grill to take along on camping trips or tailgates? Maybe you're looking for something to accommodate an extra-small outdoor space? Portable gas grills offer the convenience of gas cooking in a compact package. If you need a small build for a small crowd, or if you need something that can pack up and go at a moment's notice, portable grills work out great.
• Built-In Gas Grill: If you're looking for the ultimate backyard cooking experience, a built in gas grill can stand alone or as part of a full outdoor kitchen. These pieces offer exceptional cooking power, state-of-the-art features, and lasting durability. While it's true that they're more expensive up front, built in grills are known to last as long as most standard kitchen appliances, so you can be sure it's a solid investment that will stand the test of time. If you spend a lot of time cooking outside and you're ready for a serious piece of year-round equipment, a built in grill may be the perfect choice.

Ready to find the perfect gas grill? Get started now!