Outdoor grilling is a wonderful way to prepare foods and helps impart a delicious flavor that just can’t be achieved with indoor cooking. No matter what type of grill you choose from, there are several safety considerations to keep in mind.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission’s (CPSC) National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS) estimates that there were nearly 60,000 reported incidents of injuries to children under the age of 18 caused by grills that were treated in hospital in the United States in 2014.
The National Fire Protection Association advises the following safety precautions when grilling, including:
- Grilling only outdoors
- Keeping children and pets away from the grill area
- Keeping the grill clean of grease
- Regularly testing for gas/propane leaks
- Never leaving a grill unattended
There are three main types of grills to choose from, and your needs along with space and budget will all factor into which type you’ll end up choosing. Things such as grate material and quality, size, ignitor style, side burners, work space, and storage space will all affect the overall price of the unit.
Charcoal
Charcoal grills provide the most authentic barbeque experience and taste, and are typically the least expensive to purchase of all the grills. They will require a fuel of some kind such as charcoal briquettes. They can take some time to get up to temperature and offer less temperature control than electric and gas models. Typically, they are quite portable due to their smaller size, and some models are tabletop or come with a stand.
Electric
Electric grills run the middle-of-the-road in terms of cost, and require only a standard electrical outlet to operate. They allow for precise control of heat and are available in tabletop or freestanding models. Some electric grills can even be used indoors, but be sure to check your user manual first.
Gas
Gas models are typically the most expensive, but offer more features than charcoal and electric models. They require a fuel source such as natural gas or liquid propane in order to cook foods. They typically heat up fairly quickly, and can often be purchased with grill accessories such as a side burner for cooking with pots and pans. They are available in both tabletop and freestanding varieties.
With the above information in mind, in no particular order here are 45 of the grills that we consider the best, based on available features and average customer ratings and reviews.
Charcoal
1. Weber 741001 Original Kettle 22-Inch Charcoal Grill
This original kettle-style charcoal grill boasts a 22-inch diameter that provides 363 square inches of total cooking space. The cooking grate is made of durable plated-steel and the vents are rust-resistant for years of reliable use.
Key features:
- One touch cleaning system
- Reinforced handles on the lid
- 10 year warranty
2. Weber 121020 Go-Anywhere Charcoal Grill
This charcoal grill boasts a compact size that makes it ideal for on-the-go cookouts and family get-togethers. It boasts 160 square inches of cooking surface and features a triple nickel-plated cooking grate for years of reliable use.
Key features:
- Rust- and fade-resistant
- Pivoting legs double as lid lock
- Made in the USA
3. Char-Griller 2-2424 Table Top Charcoal Grill and Side Fire Box
This tabletop charcoal grill doubles as both a cooking grill or a smoker depending on your needs, and features a compact design that’s easy to set up nearly anywhere. It is compatible for use as a smoker with the Chargriller Pro Deluxe, Wrangler, Outlaw and Duo.
Key features:
- Cast iron cooking grates
- 250 square inches of cooking surface
- Stay cool lid handle
If you are in search of additional smokers, see our list of The Best Smokers.
4. Lodge L410 Pre-Seasoned Sportsman’s Charcoal Grill
This charcoal grill boasts a compact design that is ideal for small spaces or on-the-go cookouts and features adjustable rack heights that allow you to temper cooking speed.
Key features:
- Pre-seasoned cooking grate
- Cast iron construction
- Easy access door for coals
5. Weber 1211001 Jumbo Joe 18-Inch Portable Grill
This charcoal grill boasts a compact and portable design that makes it ideal for tailgating, camping, and other on-the-go events. It features an 18.5-inch diameter and provides 240 square inches of cooking space.
Key features:
- Durable porcelain-enameled design
- Plated-steel cooking grate
- Reinforced handles on the lid
6. Marsh Allen 30052AMZ Kay Home Product’s Cast Iron Hibachi Charcoal Grill
This charcoal grill boasts a tabletop design that is easy to set up nearly anywhere, yet still provides a cooking surface of 157 square inches. The cooking grids can be adjusted three different ways for all your needs and the wooden handles help protect against the heat.
Key features:
- Integrated vents to control burn rate
- Durable cast iron construction
- Curved sides
7. Weber 441001 Original Kettle 18-Inch Charcoal Grill
This original kettle-style charcoal grill boasts an 18-inch diameter that provides 240 square inches of total cooking space. The cooking grate is made of durable plated-steel and the vents are rust-resistant for years of reliable use.
Key features:
- One touch cleaning system
- Reinforced handles on the lid
- 10 year warranty
8. Weber 15501001 Performer Deluxe Charcoal Grill, 22-Inch
This deluxe charcoal grill provides a cooking area of 363 square inches and boasts an electronic Touch-N-Go gas ignition system to get you fired up in no time at all. It also features a built-in lid thermometer and removable LCD cook timer to get your food the perfect temperature every time.
Key features:
- Choice of colors
- Available with or without cover
- Cooking set available
9. Weber 40020 Smokey Joe Premium 14-Inch Portable Grill
This original charcoal grill boasts a compact and portable design that makes it ideal for on-the-go cookouts and for use in areas where space is at a premium. The 14-inch diameter cooking grate is made of triple nickel-plated steel for years of dependable use.
Key features:
- One touch cleaning system
- Lid locks for carrying
- 10 year warranty
10. Char-Broil Table Top Charcoal Grill
This charcoal grill boasts a tabletop design that is compact for ease of portability, and features a total of 150 square inches of cooking surface. The firebox is porcelain-coated for durability and the removable ash tray makes for quick and easy cleanups.
Key features:
- Integrated vents for air control
- Chrome-plated cooking grid
- Legs fold when not in use
11. Dyna-Glo DGN576DNC-D Premium Charcoal Grill
This charcoal grill is available in a choice of three sizes to suit any family’s outdoor cooking needs and provides 816 square inches of total cooking surface that allows you to cook up to 30 hamburgers at once. The three cast iron sliding porcelain enameled cooking grates retain heat to cook foods better.
Key features:
- Front access door for coals
- Locking caster wheels for portability
- Integrated side shelves, storage basket, and bottle opener
12. Char-Griller 2123 Wrangler 635 Square Inch Charcoal Grill/Smoker
This charcoal grill is available in a choice of sizes to suit any family’s cooking needs and is available with or without a grilling tool set. It features a built-in lid thermometer and provides up to 635 square inches of total cooking space.
Key features:
- Heavy gauge steel construction
- Cast iron grates
- Integrated storage shelves
13. Fire Sense Large Yakatori Charcoal Grill
This charcoal grill boasts a compact, tabletop design that makes it ideal for use in tight spaces or during on-the-go gatherings. It features a durable handmade clay construction with adjustable ventilation to ensure the perfect cooking experience every time you use it.
Key features:
- Grill lips help contain food
- 157 square inch cooking surface
- Ideal for skewer grilling
14. Char-Griller 1515 Patio Pro Charcoal Grill
This charcoal grill provides 250 square inches of cooking surface on durable, long-lasting cast iron cooking grates and features a stay cool wooden handle on the lid to help prevent burns. The integrated side air vent allows you to easily adjust the cooking intensity.
Key features:
- Wheels for ease of portability
- Integrated shelf
- Slide out coal drawer
15. Char-Griller 06620 Akorn Kamado Kooker Charcoal Barbecue Grill and Smoker
This charcoal grill and smoker combination provides 306 square inches of cooking surface and 165 square inches of space on the warming rack to keep foods warm. It is insulated to help retain heat and use less fuel, and the cast iron grates help retain heat as well.
Key features:
- Choice of colors
- Optional cover and grill set available
- Lid lock
Electric
16. Swissmar KF-77080 8-Person Stelvio Raclette Party Grill with Reversible Grill Top
This electric grill is perfect for cooking raclette and features a reversible grill top to provide either a raised or flat cooking surface for your foods. It is suitable for cooking for up to 8 people at a time and boasts variable heat control.
Key features:
- Dishwasher-safe
- Stay cool handles
- Spatulas and raclette dishes included
17. Char-Broil TRU Infrared Patio Bistro Electric Grill
This electric grill provides a generous 320 square inches of cooking surface and boasts a TRU-Infrared cooking system that helps to cook food more evenly and with less flare-ups.
Key features:
- Rust-resistant cooking grates
- Wheels for ease of portability
- Choice of colors
18. George Foreman GFO240S Indoor/Outdoor Electric Grill
This electric grill is suitable for use both indoors and outdoors and provides up to 240 square inches of non-stick cooking surface. It boasts variable temperature control to ensure the right temperature every time and the removable stand allows it to be used tabletop if desired.
Key features:
- Sloped grilling surface
- Integrated drip tray
- 3 year warranty
19. Weber 55020001 Q 2400 Electric Grill
This electric grill provides 280 square inches of cooking surface and features a compact design that makes it ideal for use in smaller spaces or when grilling on the go. It is ready to use right out of the box and comes complete with a 6-foot grounded cord.
Key features:
- Porcelain-enameled cast iron cooking grates
- Durable cast aluminum lid and body
- Ergonomic side handles
20. Livart LV-982 Electric Barbecue Grill
This electric grill is specially-designed for skewer cooking and boasts a stainless steel grate that is height adjustable and detachable for ease of cooking and clean up. The integrated bottom tray catches excess fat for healthier cooking.
Key features:
- Suitable for baking
- Easy to clean
- Made in Korea
21. George Foreman GFO3320GM Indoor/Outdoor Gun Metal Electric Grill
This electric grill is suitable for use both indoors and outdoors and provides up to 240 square inches of non-stick cooking surface. It boasts variable temperature control to ensure the right temperature every time and the removable stand allows it to be used tabletop if desired.
Key features:
- Sloped grilling surface
- Integrated drip tray
- 3 year warranty
22. Easy Street Electric Cart Grill
This electric grill offers a complete outdoor cooking package and comes complete with two side shelves and a rotisserie for all your cooking needs. The cooking element is adjustable in three positions and the integrated viewing window allows you to see what’s cooking on the 200 square inches of cooking space.
Key features:
- Disposable grease pan
- Wheels for ease of portability
- UL and CUL listed
23. Weber 52020001 Q1400 Electric Grill
This electric grill provides 189 square inches of cooking surface and features a compact design that makes it ideal for use in smaller spaces or when grilling on the go. It is ready to use right out of the box and comes complete with a 6-foot grounded cord.
Key features:
- Porcelain-enameled cast iron cooking grates
- Durable cast aluminum lid and body
- Ergonomic side handles
24. Cuisinart CEG-980 Outdoor Electric Grill
This electric grill is available with or without the stand to suit your family’s needs and features a compact design that is ideal for use in small spaces or for on-the-go grilling. It provides 145 square inches of cooking surface and plugs into any standard electric outlet.
Key features:
- Durable porcelain-enameled grill grate
- No assembly required
- Lightweight design and integrated carrying handle
25. Char-Broil TRU Infrared Electric Patio Bistro 180 Grill
This electric grill provides 245 square inches of cooking surface and boasts a TRU-Infrared cooking system that helps to cook food more evenly and with less flare-ups. The tabletop design makes it ideal for use in small spaces or for on-the-go grilling.
Key features:
- Rust-resistant cooking grates
- Choice of colors
- Built-in lid thermometer
26. Easy Street Electric Tabletop Grill
This electric grill boasts a compact, tabletop design that is ideal for use in small spaces or for on-the-go grilling and boasts 200 square inches of cooking space along with a three-position cooking element for precision heating.
Key features:
- Rotisserie available separately
- Removable grease tray
- UL and CUL listed
27. Easy Street Lock ‘N Go Electric Grill
This electric grill provides 176 square inches of cooking space in a compact design that is ideal for use in small spaces or on the go. The lightweight design along with stay-cool wooden handle and interlocking hood and bowl allow for ease of portability.
Key features:
- Choice of colors
- Made in the USA
- UL and CUL listed
28. Easy Street Meco 9210 Portable Utility Tabletop Electric Grill
This electric grill provides 164 square inches of cooking space in a compact design that is ideal for use in small spaces or on the go. It boasts thermostatic control and requires only a standard electrical outlet for use.
Key features:
- Removable grease tray
- Choice of three temperature settings
- UL and CUL listed
29. Easy Street Electric Tabletop Grill With Easy-View Window and Rotisserie
This electric grill comes complete with a rotisserie for all your cooking needs. The cooking element is adjustable in three positions and the integrated viewing window allows you to see the status of whatever’s on the 200 square inches of cooking space.
Key features:
- Removable grease pan
- Uses standard electrical outlet
- UL and CUL listed
30. Kenyon B70086 Rio All Seasons Built-In Electric Grill, 240-Volt
This electric grill is a thing of beauty and boasts a built-in design that is sure to make it the focal point of your space. It is suitable for use both indoors and outdoors and heats up to 500F in just 7 minutes and provides 155 square inches of cooking surface.
Key features:
- Insulated lid prevents burns
- Dishwasher-safe
- Made in the USA
Gas
31. Char-Broil 26,500 BTU 2-Burner Gas Grill
This gas grill features two burners and 26,500 BTUs of cooking power. It provides 280 square inches of cooking surface and features durable porcelain-coated wire grates and integrated side shelves that help increase your food prep area.
Key features:
- Wheels for ease of portability
- Piezo ignition system
- Hose included
32. Weber 50060001 Q1000 Liquid Propane Grill
This gas grill comes completely assembled right out of the box so you can get grilling in less time. It boasts a single burner that provides 8,500 BTUs of cooking power and 189 square inches of total cooking surface.
Key features:
- Cast iron grates
- Cast aluminum lid and body
- Ergonomic side handles
33. Char-Broil 465620011 Gas Grill 190 Deluxe
This deluxe gas grill boasts a compact design that makes it ideal for use in smaller spaces or for on-the-go grilling needs. It provides 190 square inches of cooking surface and 11,000 BTU burner.
Key features:
- Lid locks for carrying
- Heat-resistant handles
- Rust-resistant firebox
34. Weber 46110001 Spirit E210 Liquid Propane Gas Grill
This gas grill provides 360 square inches of cooking surface and 90 square inch for warming already cooked foods. There are two stainless steel burners that provide 26,500 BTUs of cooking power and the porcelain-enameled, cast-iron cooking grates are designed for years of dependable use.
Key features:
- Push button ignition
- Front-mounted control panel
- Folding side tables
35. Char-Broil TRU Infrared Patio Bistro Gas Grill
This gas grill provides 320 square inches of cooking surface and boasts a TRU-Infrared cooking system that cooks food more evenly and with less flare-ups. The integrated stand boasts wheels for ease of portability.
Key features:
- Rust-resistant cooking grates
- Electronic ignition system
- Built-in lid thermometer
36. Aussie 205 Stainless Steel Tabletop Grill
This gas grill boasts a tabletop design that is compact and ideal for on-the-go grilling or for use in small spaces. It provides 305 square inches of cooking surface thanks to a single 12,000 BTU stainless steel “U” burner.
Key features:
- Folding legs
- Integrated hood lock
- Durable stainless steel construction
37. Weber Genesis 6511001 E-310 637-Square-Inch 38,000-BTU Liquid-Propane Gas Grill
This gas grill provides a generous 637 inches of cooking area with three burners and 38,000 BTUs of cooking power. It features a front-mounted control panel for easy adjustments and an electronic ignition system for ease of starting.
Key features:
- Choice of colors
- Choice of fuel
- Built-in lid thermometer
38. Char Broil K6B 6-Burner 65,000 BTU Propane Gas Grill with Sideburner
This gas grill provides a generous cooking area of 650 square inches, along with 250 square inches of warming area thanks to its six burners and 65,000 BTUs of power. There’s also a 10,000 BTU lidded side burner so you can cook complete meals at once.
Key features:
- Convective cooking system for even heat and minimal flares
- Side shelf for additional prep space
- Built-in lid thermometer
39. Weber 51010001 Q1200 Liquid Propane Grill
This gas grill boasts a compact design that is ideal for small spaces or on-the-go grilling and provides 189 square inches of cooking space with 8,500 BTUs of power. It comes completely assembled and features porcelain-enameled cast iron cooking grates that are incredibly durable.
Key features:
- Choice of colors
- Built-in lid thermometer
- Optional cart sold separately
40. Cuisinart CGG-200 All-Foods 12,000-BTU Portable Outdoor Tabletop Propane Gas Grill
This gas grill features interchangeable cooking surfaces that are perfect for grilling any number of foods including meats, vegetables, and even fruits. It boasts 12,000 BTUs of cooking power and a tabletop design that is ideal for small spaces or on-the-go cooking.
Key features:
- Choice of colors
- Available with or without stand
- Integrated folding side shelves
41. Char-Broil 530 inch² 35,000-BTU 2-Burner Gas Grill with 8,000-BTU Side Burner
This gas grill provides 530 square inches of cooking and warming surface area and 35,000 BTUs of power through the two burners. It comes complete with an 8,000 BTU side burner that allows you to cook complete meals at once.
Key features:
- Available with or without cover
- Optional grilling set
- Integrated condiment basket
42. Cuisinart CGG-180T Petit Gourmet Portable Tabletop Gas Grill
Thanks to the unique design of this tabletop gas grill, it is incredibly lightweight and boasts an pronounced briefcase-style carrying handle that makes it easily portable. It provides 145 square inches of cooking surface thanks to a 5,500 BTU burner.
Key features:
- Choice of colors
- Available with or without stand
- Legs fold for storage
43. Blackstone 36 inch Stainless Steel Outdoor Cooking Gas Grill Griddle Station
This outdoor gas griddle provides 756 square inches of flat cooking surface thanks to 60,000 BTUs of power provided by four independently-controlled burners. It is easy to assemble and features locking caster wheels for ease of portability.
Key features:
- Integrated side tables
- Durable stainless steel design
- CSA certified, ETL listed
44. Weber 1141001 Go-Anywhere Gas Grill
This gas grill provides 160 square inches of cooking surface and boasts a compact design that makes it ideal for use in small spaces or for on-the-go grilling. The durable porcelain enameled steel cooking grate provides even heat distribution while helping to prevent flares.
Key features:
- Push button ignition
- Legs fold for storage
- Made in the USA
45. Dyna-Glo DGB390SNP-D Smart Space Living 36,000 BTU 3-Burner LP Gas Grill
This gas grill allows for the feel of a full-sized model while still boasting a compact width for use in tighter spaces. It provides 503 square inches of cooking space thanks to 36,000 BTUs of cooking power from three stainless steel commercial grade burners.
Key features:
- Built-in lid thermometer
- Porcelain enameled cast iron cooking grates
- Folding side tables with tool hooks and towel bars
