Best Gas Grills Under $300 – 2021 Buyer’s Guide

| Last Updated: January 7, 2022

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While some of the very best gas grills can be quite expensive, particularly when contrasted with their charcoal cousins, there are nevertheless some incredible gas grills that you can buy for under $300.

The key is that you must know what to look for! Even then, you may find yourself unsure of which one to buy.

That is where we come in! We have compiled this guide to help you in your decision-making process. Along with information crucial to your choice, we also compiled a list of some of the best gas grills under $300.

Comparison of the Best Gas Grills Under $300

IMAGEPRODUCT
  • Best gas grill under $300 overall
  • Large cooking area of 474 square inches
  • Crafted with a push-start ignition
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  • 300 square inches of cooking space
  • Crafted with grates that are cast iron and coated with porcelain
  • Rapid start-up possible with a reliable electronic ignition
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  • Best for the Money
  • Grates are constructed of cast iron and coated with porcelain enamel
  • Easy to use controls for heat management and ignition
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  • Crafted with a hinged lid that angles at 45 degrees for better safety
  • Dual-zone burners built-in that deliver up to 22,000 BTU/hr.
  • Offers 346 square inches of cooking space
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  • Comes with three built-in stainless steel burners
  • Able to give you 40, 500 BTUs of cooking power
  • Large cooking space of 568.5 square inches
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Can You Really Find a Quality Gas Grill That’s Affordable?

Purchasing an effective gas barbecue for under $300 is certainly possible. When looking at this budget, it’s all about prioritization. While the more costly barbecues come with a tremendous scope of features and design options, you’re not going to get the entirety of all these bells and whistles in one option at this price point. 

You’re also not likely to get a large barbecue with multiple burners. However, that shouldn’t deter you. A great deal of the extravagant highlights on the more costly models, such as infrared, are simply an advertising strategy. So with that in mind, it is quite possible to find a quality gas grill for under $300 as long as those more "premium" features are not your top priority over great functionality.

What To Look For When Buying a Gas Grill

While picking the perfect gas grill, there are a few things to consider. These things can assist you in recognizing a good grill from a bad one. 

Number of Burners

The quantity of burners is important to the amount of food that you can cook at any one time. All in all, the more burners a grill has, the more cooking space that is available. So dependent on your needs, you may want to concentrate on the number of burners.

BTU

The BTU level that your grill puts out plays a significant role in how quickly your meat will cook once it is placed on the grate. While it’s acceptable to have a high BTU rating, remember that higher BTU numbers don’t really mean quicker cooking time. 

Try to find a decent balance between BTU rating and cooking space for the best outcomes. The standard heat capacity is around 85. 

Grate Material

Barbecue grates are a significant aspect of a good grill. The best models utilize treated stainless steel or cast iron, which give a few significant advantages. Search for these materials for your barbecue’s grates as much as possible. 

Willy's Top Picks - Best Gas Grills Under $300

Review of the Best Gas Grills Under $300

With all that knowledge under your belt, it is time to take an in-depth look at our choices.

Best Overall:
Megamaster 720-0982 Propane Gas Grill

Pros

  • Allows for up to 5000BTU of roasting heat
  • Push start ignitor for ease of use
  • Table is built with a drip pan housed underneath
  • Burners are made of stainless steel for enhanced durability
  • Designed with a porcelain cover that optimizes searing capability

Cons

  • Instructions for assembly not provided
  • A few users reported issues with not all parts arriving when delivered

What Recent Buyers Report

The Megamaster 720-0982 Propane Gas Grill is a fast heating option that can stay stable even on the rockiest landscape. Although some units have arrived without instructions, once you have completed the assembly, you end up with a great grill.

Why it Stands Out to Us

Of all the reasons for this unit to be our number one choice, the one thing that stood out the most is the cooking area. The spacious 474 square inch surface makes it easy to cook up all the grub you need to have a great BBQ.

Who Will Use This Most

This is a great choice for those grillers that work on uneven ground. Especially if you like to grill up feasts all the time, the stability of this unit will let you grill in confidence knowing that there is no chance of tipping.

Bottom Line

In order to give you a quality grill, the team at Megamaster included everything you would want. From a large cooking surface to an easy-to-use push-start ignition, this unit brings you a high-performance product that easily could cost you much more than it does.

Runner-up:
Char-Broil Performance 300

Pros

  • Can deliver up to 24,000 BTUs
  • Grill comes with handy storage cabinet
  • Set on four casters for better stability
  • Crafted with an easy to use electronic ignition system
  • Designed with foldable side shelf that optimizes storage and preparation abilities

Cons

  • No flavorizer bars included in the purchase
  • Actual space for cooking is on the smaller side

What Recent Buyers Report

The Char-Broil Performance 300 is an elegant looking grill that will spruce up any patio, and it is easy to use. Though some have experienced inconsistent flames, as a whole, most would highly recommend this grill to their friends.

Why it Stands Out to Us

This is an amazing option, but just like with our first choice, the cooking space is absolutely something that stands out. That, combined with the reliable and fast start-up ignition system, makes this grill ready to go at a minute’s notice.

Who Will Use This Most

The ease of use makes this a perfect option for the beginner griller. Its simple construction with heightened features will have even the novice producing perfectly grilled meals. It is especially suitable for beginners with limited patio space as it is a bit more compact than many other options out there.

Bottom Line

Char-Broil is one of the most well-known names in the grill business. So along with all the fantastic features we have discussed above, you also get the brand’s patent reputation for durable, high performing products.

Best for the Money:
Weber 50060001 Q1000

Pros

  • Capable of giving 8500 BTU/hr.
  • Price versus value is especially amazing
  • Capable of being hooked up to an RV’s propane tank
  • Some come with an additional piece of equipment (a griddle)
  • Able to use different size propane tanks dependent on the situation
  • Lightweight and compact, making it easy to transport and store

Cons

  • Issues with the amount of heat capability
  • Some have had units arrive with a faulty regulator

What Recent Buyers Report

Grilling is an art, and many people love to dabble; with this grill, you get a really easy to use tool. It is not only high performing but well built. Though the cart is purchased separately, the core piece is a perfect choice for almost anyone.

Why it Stands Out to Us

All the power and features included here would typically bring with them a hefty price tag. The Weber 50060001 Q1000 is the exception to that rule. This is why it stood out to us. The value versus price rivals that of any of its competitiors.

Who Will Use This Most

The compact nature of this unit gives it an enhanced level of portability that is perfect for tailgaters and RVers. The Weber gives them all the power they need to whip up those delicious treats as they get pumped up for the adventure.

Bottom Line

If you are looking for a lightweight, compact option for any reason, you may think you have to settle for less power. That may sometimes be true, but with the Weber 50060001 Q1000, you will get one of the highest power capabilities available.

4. Fuego F21C-H Element Hinged Propane Gas Grill

Pros

  • Clean up is easy and simple
  • Compact and lightweight which gives it enhanced portability
  • The unit heats up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit in just 5 minutes
  • Aesthetically pleasing design gives your grilling a touch of innovation
  • Fitted with a 15-pound porcelain cast iron grate for better heating capabilities

Cons

  • Takes some time to assemble
  • Some may feel it is too small in comparison to other alternatives

What Recent Buyers Report

No matter what you do, you don’t want a grill that is difficult to use. With this selection from Fuego, you get an innovatively designed choice that is easy to use and heats nicely. You will need to make sure that you purchase the cover, but other than that, this is easily one of the best grills available.

Why it Stands Out to Us

There are a lot of things that we could point to with the Fuego F21C-H, but the uniquely designed hinged lid could well be the coolest aspect of this grill. This lid allows you to be protected from the flames of the fire if you need to reach across the grill for any reason.

Who Will Use This Most

This unique grill is compact and perfect for individuals dealing with a small space. The good thing is that even though it works in a small area, the actual cooking space is not lacking. And that makes this the perfect model for a small spaced patio.

Bottom Line

Innovation is the name of the game when it comes to the Fuego F21C-H. With its space and look, you will not only be able to cook up some delicious treats but also have a conversation starter.

5. Megamaster 720-0804 Propane Gas Grill

Pros

  • Price is nice for the size and features
  • Fitted with sturdy wheels that make moving it easy
  • Temperature controls offer precision management of cooking temps
  • Designed to offer even heat transfer and high-performance heat retention
  • Constructed with high-grade materials that give it improved durability

Cons

  • Some assembly is required
  • Though easy to move, it still takes two to do it

What Recent Buyers Report

The Megamaster 720-0804 is built with perfect dimensions for many different occasions. The size may be a reason why it heats up so well. Because of these two features, many people feel it is a great option to recommend to anyone looking for a well performing grill.

Why it Stands Out to Us

The multiple stainless steel burners are the one feature that really struck us as unique. Most grills at this price point suffer from limited burner space, but the design team on this one knew they needed to up the ante and give their customers what they wanted: more cooking space.

Who Will Use This Most

The size of this grill is perfect for large events. So whether you are a caterer doing a summer BBQ event or a large family getting together for the 4th of July, this grill is a great option. Plus, you get a warming option as well.

Bottom Line

This fine grill from Megamaster is just another model from this well-known company that brings with it all the attention to detail and craftsmanship as all of its other grills. That attention to detail is why we knew this unit had to be on our list.

What Do I Need To Know Before Buying?

Here is some information that would be beneficial to know and understand before making your final decision:

Ignition System

There are generally three essential ignition systems that you should look over. They are Piezoelectric, electronic, and the igniter bar ignition systems. Each has its pluses and minuses, but the easiest to use is the electrical ignition system. 

Temperature Gauge

If you need to cook something more than simply sausages on your gas grill, like chicken or burgers, you will require the ability to check the internal temp. Having a thermometer to screen the temperature of your grill will assist you will keep your food properly prepared every time. 

Propane or Gas

Knowing which form of gas you want to use comes down to knowing if you plan on transporting the grill at all. Propane is much easier to transport, but it also costs more. So figure out if you want to use propane or another form of gas.

How to Clean a Gas Grill

All you need is a decent brush, water and soap, an empty bucket for your debris, and an old rag that you don’t anticipate using ever again. Once you have those you are ready to clean your grill. 

Here are the steps you should take:

  1. Give the grill grates a decent scour with your brush. Utilize the metal scrubber on your brush with some muscles. This will help dispense with those difficult to remove leftover bits. After you’ve brushed the top side of the grate, remove it and do the same on the bottom of the grate.  

  2. Remove and wash the burner plates. As you can imagine, these burners can get grimy. Fortunately, in many gas grills, they are simply set to the side.

  3. Utilize your soapy water and rag to give them a decent clean. That debris should wash directly off, and your burners will look glossy and new. 

  4. In the wake of cleaning the burners, you’ll need to proceed onward to the plates underneath. Scratch any pieces from the edges onto your plate. These plates should slide directly. Some of the debris will be loose; however, most likely should be scratched off. Utilize the rag here to get all that oil and grime off. 

  5. Put your grill back together and appreciate some delicious victuals!

For more information, make sure to check out this video:

Conclusion

Finding a good grill for a budget-friendly price may seem like an impossible feat, but we promise that it is not. We have shown you with our list of the best gas grills for under $300 that finding a grill with all the right features is simply a matter of patience and a little research. Hopefully, one of our options is the right one for you and your grilling needs.

People Also Ask

When doing your research to make your decision, inevitably you will run into many more questions. Below we have gathered together a few of the most commonly asked questions and answered them for you.

How Long Should a Gas Grill Last?

It relies upon the level of maintenance and upkeep that you perform on the grill. The other factors are the climate the barbecue is exposed to. Most grills can be functional for up to ten years.

How Often Should You Clean Your Gas Grill?

Many grillers concur that your gas grill should be cleaned 1-2 times each year, yet some feel with all year barbecuing, cleaning should be done like clockwork. Veggies fall through the grates, marinades splatter, and oil from your burgers and steaks build up rather rapidly. So a good cleaning after every major use should be on the table as well.

Is it OK to Cook on a Dirty Grill?

Your gas grill needn’t bother with a deep clean every time you cook on it. Still, a dirty grill can lead to things like weird tastes on your food or even making you sick. So, a good wash after every use will help you steer clear of any of that.

Hey there, I’m Will, and I’ve been smoking and grilling for as long as I can remember. I made this blog to help others who are looking for honest and reliable info from someone they can trust. In my own efforts to try to perfect my smoking and grilling skills, I’ve done a lot of research and would like to have it compiled as a resource for others to use. Happy smoking!