Grill Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Grill For You

Grilling is synonymous with the warmer months. Whether it’s spring, summer, or early fall, there’s nothing better than sitting in your backyard on a warm night. Enjoying a cool drink, talking with friends, listening to the crickets chirp.

But one of the best ways to get the most out of your outdoor space is to add a grill. You can prepare delicious meals for your loved ones while soaking up the benefits of the great outdoors at the same time.

If you’re considering adding a grill to your outdoor space, this grill buying guide is just what you need. Shopping for a grill isn’t as easy as it seems. Grills come in a variety of sizes, price points, styles, and fuel types, not to mention all the extra features to choose from.

To learn how to choose the best grill for you and your family, keep reading!

Grill Size

The first factor to consider when shopping for a grill is, of course, its size. Most people don’t have unlimited space to work with and you need to choose one that will fit within the space you have.

Now, it’s important to consider fire safety when measuring the space you have to work with. Each manufacturer will give their own recommendations, but according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, grills should be kept at least 10 feet from your house and any other structure.

Most grills are measured in square inches. Grill enthusiasts who host frequent neighborhood cookouts or other events might want something larger, but for most people, a 400-500 square inch grill is plenty large enough.

The other element to look for is the number of burners. Again, for most people, a two-burner grill is enough. However, if you have a passion for grilling or cook for large groups, you might prefer a larger grill with four or five burners.

Fuel Type

There are three types of fuel to choose from when shopping for a grill: gas, charcoal, and pellet. None is better than the others, it all comes down to your cooking style and the level of convenience you’re looking for.

That said, each one comes with its own set of pros and cons, so knowing what you can expect from each can help you narrow down the search.

Gas Grills

Gas grills are the most common type, as they’re typically built cart style, making them a convenient option. When you’re browsing gas grills, you’ll notice that you can either use liquid propane or natural gas.

Natural gas is cheaper than propane and you won’t have to deal with propane tank replacement, but you’ll sacrifice the ability to move your grill. This is because natural gas grills must be connected to your home’s natural gas supply line.

If you’re unsure, don’t worry, most grills come equipped to use either, so you don’t have to decide now. If you’re interested in diving deeper into gas grills, you can view these deals and browse your options.

Charcoal Grills

Looking for that classic smoky flavor in your grilled foods? A charcoal grill is the option for you. Charcoal grills take a bit more work and dedication than a gas grill, so it’s important to be prepared for extra maintenance it requires before purchase.

In addition, charcoal grills take longer to preheat, as the charcoal briquettes need time to heat up before you can use them to cook. When you’re done cooking, you’ll also need to clean the grill and get rid of any charcoal ash.

Though charcoal grills aren’t as precise as gas grills, they provide that distinct “grilled” flavor and are the most affordable option.

Pellet Grills 

Like charcoal grills, pellet grills imbue foods with a distinct flavor. Instead of the smoky charcoal flavor, however, your food will have a wood-fired flavor. This is because pellet grills work by burning wood pellets that heat to your desired temperature.

Pellet grills are the most expensive fuel option. Because although you can find an affordable model when it comes to the grill itself, the wood pellets can be hard to find and are more expensive than propane and charcoal.

Additional Features

Many grilling aficionados care about one thing and one thing only: taste. As long as a grill cooks food well and allows for the cooking of tasty meals, it’s the right grill.

If you’re in this camp, additional features might not matter much. However, that doesn’t mean that the right set of additional features can’t enhance your grilling experience.

The most basic of these features is wheels on each of the legs that can lock if needed, but you can find grills with all sorts of gadgets to help with your cooking.

For example, many grills come with a side burner, allowing you to heat sauces and sides while your main dish is cooking on the grill top. And features such as a smoke box, rotisserie, and searing burner are great for those looking for a more advanced grilling experience. 

Improve Your Outdoor Space With This Grill Buying Guide

Spending time in the great outdoors can do wonders for both your mental and physical health. And what better way to make your backyard fun than with the perfect grill for you and your family?

By using this grill buying guide, you’re sure to find a grill that suits your wants, needs, and budget. You’ll be able to start preparing meals in your outdoor space as soon as today.

Looking for more tips and tricks for improving your outdoor living? Be sure to check out our blog!