Grills for Every Backyard and Budget

About Grills for Every Backyard and Budget

A grill is the center of any outdoor cooking setup, and choosing the right fuel type and size makes a real difference in how often you actually use it. Propane grills light in seconds and let you dial heat precisely, which is why they dominate the market from small tabletop units under $150 to full-size 4-burner carts over $500. Charcoal grills cost less up front and produce a smokier cook, but they take more time to light and manage. Natural gas models connect to a home line and eliminate tank refills, making them the go-to choice for permanent outdoor kitchens. Electric grills fill the gap where open flames are not allowed, such as apartment balconies and some campgrounds. Cooking area, measured in square inches, tells you how many burgers or steaks you can run at one time; a 275 sq in surface handles four burgers, while a 600-plus sq in deck can feed a crowd. BTU output matters less than most buyers think; higher BTUs do not automatically mean better searing, but they do indicate how quickly a grill recovers temperature after you add cold food.