Photo credit: www.cbsnews.com
The outdoor grilling season is in full swing, making it an ideal time to find the perfect propane gas grill for your backyard, deck, or patio. Whether you’re looking for a grill to take on camping trips or one that can be quickly set up for tailgating, we have compiled a list of the top five propane grills to enhance your summer cooking experience.
Propane grills present several benefits over their charcoal and wood-pellet counterparts. They offer greater convenience, precise temperature control, and are easier to clean. Additionally, they deliver deliciously cooked food. Many modern propane grills come equipped with features that allow them to cook various dishes simultaneously at different temperatures. The advent of smart grill technology further simplifies the grilling process, eliminating the guesswork often involved in achieving the perfect cook.
For ongoing reviews and details on the best deals in technology, tools, and outdoor cooking equipment, be sure to explore our regularly updated resources. If you are also considering a redesign of your outdoor space, check out our article on enhancing your patio using products from leading retailers.
Best Propane Grill Overall: Weber Genesis SPX-435 Smart Grill
Weber, a name synonymous with grilling, offers the Genesis SPX-435, a smart grill designed to simplify meal preparation whether you’re grilling, roasting, or steaming. This stainless steel grill boasts 994 square inches of cooking area and features the Weber Connect app, which provides guidance on when to turn or serve your food based on your desired cooking preferences. For nighttime grilling, the SPX-435 is equipped with LED lights, illuminating the entire grilling surface.
This model is available in both propane and natural gas versions. Key features include a built-in prep-and-serve table, an expandable cooking grate, and an integrated side burner. With a solid output of 48,000 BTUs, this grill is built to last and promises to enhance your outdoor cooking experience.
Best Portable Propane Grill: Monument Grills Tabletop Gas Grill
This stainless steel grill stands out for its portability and compact design while offering an extra-high lid, convenient for cooking thicker cuts of meat. It features 207 square inches of cooking space and operates with two independently controlled burners that deliver 15,000 BTUs of cooking power.
Noteworthy features include a thermometer mounted on the lid and large control dials. Measuring 18 x 18 x 13 inches and weighing under 20 pounds, it includes a four-foot hose for connecting to a separate propane tank. Designed exclusively for outdoor use, this grill excels in both transportability and ease of cleanup, thanks to its drip tray and travel locks that secure the lid during transport.
Best Value Propane Grill: Weber Spirit II E-210
The Weber Spirit II E-210 offers a practical size for smaller patios or porches, measuring 48 x 26 x 57 inches, while its built-in wheels facilitate easy movement. With durable porcelain-enameled cast-iron cooking grates and a total of 450 square inches of cooking space, this two-burner grill utilizes standard 20-pound propane tanks.
Additional features include a handy fold-down table, fuel gauge, stainless-steel heat deflector, and a warming rack. While other more affordable propane grills are available, the E-210 stands out for its durability, quality construction, and overall ease of use, making it an excellent option for average families.
Best Propane Grill for Families: Weber Genesis E-325s
The Weber Genesis E-325s is a great choice for families looking to prepare large meals. It offers a generous cooking area of 641 square inches along with a sear zone, enabling you to cook multiple steaks or burgers simultaneously. The grill’s three main burners deliver 39,000 BTUs, while the additional sear zone provides an extra 13,000 BTUs.
This model also offers optional accessories for expanded cooking possibilities, including a pizza stone and griddle. Built for utility, it features two side tables for food prep and a warming rack for keeping dishes warm while you finish cooking.
Best Premium Propane Grill: Weber Summit S-470
For those who prefer a more traditional grilling experience without smart technology, the Weber Summit S-470 is an excellent premium option. This four-burner grill features 580 square inches of stainless steel cooking space and includes a side burner and a tuck-away rotisserie system. It operates at 48,800 BTUs, accommodating gatherings of up to 10 people.
With practical features like an LED fuel gauge and lighted control knobs, the S-470 stands out for its stylish design and robust performance. Measuring 50.5 x 66 x 26.5 inches, it’s a reliable addition that will enhance the look and functionality of your outdoor cooking area.
How to Choose a Propane Grill
There are several important factors to consider when selecting the right propane grill for your needs:
Size: Ensure that your grill fits safely in your designated outdoor area, as placing it too close to structures can pose a fire hazard.
Cooking Space: Consider how much food you need to cook at one time, as this affects your choice significantly. A cooking space of 400 to 500 square inches is often suitable for a family of four, while larger gatherings require more space.
Grill Grates: Materials vary, with options like stainless steel and porcelain-enameled cast iron offering durability and easy cleaning. A good quality grate provides excellent searing marks on meats.
Materials and Durability: Your grill’s main housing should consist of materials that retain heat well, such as stainless steel, cast iron, or enamel.
Ease of Cleanup: A grill with a design that simplifies cleaning will save you time and effort, but always adhere to maintenance guidelines to avoid damaging the grill or contaminating your food.
Don’t Forget the Propane Tank
Each propane grill requires connection to an external propane tank, which is usually sold separately. You can find empty tanks on platforms like Amazon and refill them at local providers. To ease the transport of these heavy tanks, consider using a propane tank dolly, such as the Hensita propane easy cart, which is designed specifically for this purpose.
Source
www.cbsnews.com