Best Propane Grills of 2021 – Buyer’s Guide

| Last Updated: January 7, 2022

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Many people have recently exchanged their smoky, traditional charcoal grills for environmentally-friendly gas grills. They are not only user-friendly but also pollute less, they have an even heat distribution, and the process goes smoothly and cleanlier. 

However, due to the abundant supply on the market, it might be challenging to choose the best propane grill for you and your family.

Here are our detailed reviews of the very best propane grills and all the information you need about them!

Comparison of the Best Propane Grills

IMAGEPRODUCT
  • The sear station, side burner and efficient heating
  • Equipped with GS4 grilling system
  • Easy to use and check gas levels
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  • Sear station optimized for quick sear marks on meat
  • Built-in thermometer and many other premium features
  • Integrated warming rack, heavy-duty structure
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  • Best Propane Grill for the Money
  • A total output of 18,000 BTU for three stainless steel burners
  • 295 sq. inches of main cooking area and 135 sq. inches warming rack
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  • Best Propane Grill Under $200
  • Twist-to-start ignition, the handle remains cool
  • Folding side shelves
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  • Best Propane Grill Under $300
  • The steel frame is powder-coated
  • Fast ignition button and rear grease management system
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  • Best Propane Grill Under $500
  • Push-button electronic ignition
  • Fuel gauge and iGrill 3 compatible
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  • Best Propane Grill Under $1000
  • Stainless-steel heat deflectors
  • Constructed with premium-quality materials
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Are All Propane Grills The Same?

Despite their name, not all products come with the same characteristics, so we cannot argue that they are all the same. In fact, that’s why we’re here - because they are different, which makes it difficult to go for the best one. 

Propane grills are made of different materials, they come in different sizes, and their features also vary. Whether you prefer a larger one or a smaller one, a portable or a static one, it is up to you and your needs. For instance, if you want a grill to take with you on your trips, you should consider one that is portable and folds up nicely, without taking too much space.

Another difference might be the number of burners and the cooking area. More burners mean that you can cook several foods at the same time. At the same time, a larger cooking area will allow you to provide delicious food for your large family quickly. Alternatively, smaller households could consider a more modest, compact, and efficient product instead of a bulky one. 

Therefore, no propane grill is the same as another. They do have similarities and differences, but in the end, it is up to you which one satisfies your needs.

What Should I Look For When Buying a Propane Grill?

Here are the main aspects to take into consideration when you’re buying a propane grill:

Budget

First of all, define your budget. There are endless options on the market with varied features and price tags. Having a lower budget does not mean you will end up with a flimsy, cheaply made product. It simply means that your product might not have 8 burners, but only 3, which is sufficient for most medium families anyway. 

Size

Double-check your backyard or the place where you plan to install your new propane grill and make sure it fits. Additionally, establish an average number of people you plan to cook for. It is important to point out that the bigger the size of the grill, the higher the fuel consumption and the longer the cleaning time. Try not to overestimate your needs. 

Features

This one depends on your budget – in simple terms, the larger the budget, the more additional features you can have. If you have more features, it means that your options are quite versatile, and you can cook different foods. Other features provide convenience, such as an app-connected thermometer. 

Willy's Top Picks - Best Propane Grills

Review of the Best Propane Grills

Now that you are aware of what to keep an eye out for, take a look at our top recommendations when it comes to propane grills.

Best Overall:
Weber 62016001 Genesis II E-435

Pros

  • Durable and efficient
  • Sear station for locking in flavor
  • Easy to use control knobs, checking the heating
  • Compatible with an app-connected thermometer
  • Wide grill surface with retention and even heat distribution

Cons

  • Large and heavy
  • Assembly is difficult

What Recent Buyers Report

This grill comes with a highly useful storage cabinet that is spacious enough for a large array of utensils and grilling tools. The side tables feature integrated tool hooks, and they can be tucked away and folded when not needed. The fuel gauge is very easy to read. 

Why it Stands Out to Us

The Weber Genesis II E-435 is a high-quality grill that offers a complete cooking experience. With its vast experience, Weber has put together all the desired features in one compact item. It has solid durability and premium quality, a must-have grill for any grill enthusiast. 

Who Will Use This Most

The Genesis II is recommended for all users, regardless of the size of the family or their skill level. It has a 10-year warranty that ensures a long service life, helping you to serve delicious meals to your family and friends for many years to come. 

Bottom Line

This is simply the best propane grill on the market. It comes with cast-iron cooking grates, a sturdy build, and boasts even cooking and heat retention. It has several burners, a sear station, a side burner, and many other premium features that offer a complete experience. 

Runner-up:
Weber Spirit E330 Lp Black Grill

Pros

  • Consistent performance 
  • Plenty of cooking and additional space
  • High-quality and has 10 years warranty
  • Durable, built from heavy-duty materials 
  • Built-in lid thermometer for a proper finish on the food

Cons

  • High price range
  • Complex assembly
  • Constant cleaning required

What Recent Buyers Report

The design of this grill is exceptionally sturdy and made of heavy-duty materials that do not rust or peel. Although it requires constant cleaning, the grill has a removable grease tray, thus cleaning is very easy and quick. 

Why it Stands Out to Us

The Weber Spirit E330 comes with porcelain-enameled grates and flavorizer bars, allowing you to enjoy the traditional flavor of the charcoal grill. What's more, the lid is also porcelain-enameled, while the burners are placed and connected from the front side to the back. This design optimizes the working area. 

Who Will Use This Most

This three-burner unit is designed with high efficiency, comfort, and performance. It is highly recommended for people who frequently grill for their families. It can easily satisfy the most demanding needs of all types of users, especially those who enjoy grilling on a daily basis. 

Bottom Line

If you want a premium quality, durable propane gas grill, the Weber Spirit E330 should be high on your list. If the numerous features are not enough to suit your needs, this grill is low on maintenance and is the ideal appliance for experimenting chefs. 

Best Propane Grill for the Money:
Broil King 952654 Porta-Chef 320

Pros

  • Convenient and highly portable
  • Sure-Lite electronic ignition
  • Sturdy stainless-steel construction
  • 10-year warranty
  • 50% more portable than other portable grills
  • Cast-iron grill grate, a non-stick cooking surface

Cons

  • Quite heavy
  • Aluminum cook box is flimsier than the other parts
  • Lid does not lock, which is troublesome when transporting the grill

What Recent Buyers Report

The Porta-Chef 320 is the perfect combination of portability and quality. It features a portable design and is made of durable, sturdy materials to last for a long time. It reduces grill flare-ups, has an ample cooking space, and it helps you cook delicious meals. 

Why it Stands Out to Us

This grill enjoys magnificent workmanship and a great, functional design. It comes with three stainless-steel main burners, a large cooking area, and the cast-iron cooking grate offers a long-lasting non-stick cooking surface. Lastly, it features the Flav-R-Wave system, which enhances heat distribution. 

Who Will Use This Most

Grilling during camping trips or traveling has never been more simple than with the Porta-Chef 320. It is highly portable and easy to take with you wherever you need it. It has 50% more power compared to other portable alternatives. It also has a large cooking space and all the features you need to feed your entire family a delicious meal. 

Bottom Line

Overall, the Porta-Chef 320 is the best portable propane grill on the market. With a total output of 18,000 BTU, it is impossible not to put it on your shopping list straight away. Thanks to its highly functional features and high quality, the investment is totally worth it!

Best Propane Grill Under $200:
Cuisinart CGG-240 All Foods Roll-Away Gas Grill

Pros

  • Quick to assemble 
  • Large surface for cooking 
  • 240 square inches cooking grate
  • Reliable twist ignition system
  • Portable design at an affordable price
  • Comes with a stand for enhanced maneuverability

Cons

  • Difficult to clean
  • Burner knobs are quite flimsy

What Recent Buyers Report

The Cuisinart CGG-240 performs well, allowing the heat to spread evenly throughout the burners and the grate, retaining heat for an extended time. This means that all the food is cooked to perfection. However, it can be quite difficult to clean because the bottom has many bolts and nuts.

Why it Stands Out to Us

This portable, durable stainless-steel grill comes attached to a collapsible steel stand. It is extremely easy to transport, despite its large cooking surface of 220 square inches made from solid cast iron.

Who Will Use This Most

If you are in need of a reliable, portable propane gas grill to use from time to time, Cuisinart is the best option and offers high-quality grilling performance. Due to the difficulty with cleaning, people who grill very frequently would not enjoy the experience as much.

Bottom Line

If you are a casual grilling fan and you want an affordable and portable unit that is easy to store away when not in use, the Cuisinart CGG-240 All Foods Roll-Away Gas Grill is all you need. It has a compact design, large cooking area, and great quality features.

Best Propane Grill Under $300:
Blackstone 1554

Pros

  • High value for money
  • Versatile and portable
  • Provides propane tank
  • Removable griddle top
  • Easy to store when not in use
  • Quick and easy assembly with excellent heat retention

Cons

  • No warranty
  • Prone to rust
  • Grease traps are difficult to clean

What Recent Buyers Report

What buyers love most about this unit is its simplicity. It does not have all the bells and whistles of a Weber, but then again neither does it have the price tag of a Weber. It is convenient, easy to use, and it is a true delight to cook food on it. 

Why it Stands Out to Us

Blackstone propane grill is a high-quality unit perfect for grilling and griddling. It has a huge area of 720 square inches, which is ideal for parties and large events. The removable sheet griddle, four heat zones with 15,000 BTU are only a few of its outstanding features. 

Who Will Use This Most

This Blackstone cooking station is ideal for commercial use, given its large size. It is able to cater for large events and parties, having a 720 square inch main area. It is perfect for cooking steaks, veggies, pancakes, fried rice, hamburgers, and many others. 

Bottom Line

All in all, if you are looking for a highly capable grill, Blackstone delivers to you all the features you need. It empowers you with greater control over the cooking experience, allowing you to cook multiple foods at the same time on the four independently controlled steel burners. 

Best Propane Grill Under $500:
Weber 45010001 Spirit II E-310

Pros

  • Tank scale 
  • 2 side shelves, one folding
  • Sturdy lower shelf for storage
  • Six hooks and two side shelves
  • Two oversized wheels for easy repositioning
  • Porcelain-enameled flavorizer bars and cast-iron grates

Cons

  • Only one side shelf folds
  • Lid thermometers are not effective 

What Recent Buyers Report

The Spirit II E-310 has plenty of features to deliver a delightful cooking experience. You can use it straight out of the box, or you may purchase and add other accessories to allow you to expand your skills beyond basic grilling. It is the perfect combination of simplicity and modern design. 

Why it Stands Out to Us

This is the lucky possessor of the GS4 grilling system, composed of infinity ignition, flavorizer bar, grease management system, and powerful burners. These elements ensure that each grilling experience is reliable, safe, and effortless. The moment the burners are lit, everything goes on smooth as butter!

Who Will Use This Most

The Spirit II E-310 is ideal for anyone who needs a high-performing, easy to use grill. Whether you have advanced grilling skills or you are less-versed in this field, the Spirit II E-310 has something to offer. With a powerful cooking area, the grilling experience is pleasant from the beginning to cleaning and maintaining the unit.

Bottom Line

Overall, cooking with Spirit II E-310 can be an incredibly rewarding experience. Impress all of your loved ones and friends with this powerful and smart grill, regardless of your skill level. The flavorizer bars infuse your foods with a delicious charcoal grill flavor. Make sure that you check it out!

Best Propane Grill Under $1000:
Weber 61015001 Genesis II E-315

Pros

  • Includes 10 years of warranty
  • Easy to use push-button for ignition
  • Well-distributed and easy to control
  • Easy operation and plenty of working space
  • High-quality build for a long-lasting experience
  • Fuel gauge shows how much fuel is in the tank

Cons

  • Assembly takes long
  • No searing station

What Recent Buyers Report

Users are highly satisfied with the performance of this grill, along with its speedy preheat process with even distribution of heat. The process is smooth, efficient, and it is great for a quick but delicious grill time with your family and friends. There are no flare-ups.

Why it Stands Out to Us

The Genesis II E-315 is a high-quality, three-burner unit with exquisite features compared to many other alternatives on the market. It features the popular GS4 grilling system, which offers a premium grilling experience, with high efficiency in heat distribution. It is well designed and easy to use. 

Who Will Use This Most

The only shortcoming of this model is that it lacks a searing station. If you can live without one, you should give this model a try. The build quality, Weber craftsmanship, and its other features are well worth it and definitely make it up for this tiny flaw. 

Bottom Line

The Genesis II E-315 is highly performing, offering its user three quality burners. It offers great value for the money you spend on it, it is well constructed, and the solid stainless-steel rod cooking grate contributes to its many benefits. This should definitely have a top place on your list!

Best Propane Charcoal Grill Combo:
Char-Griller 5030

Pros

  • Affordable price
  • Cast-iron material
  • Convenient combo burners
  • High-quality grill for the price
  • Side firebox and heavy-duty construction
  • Best combo propane grill with a charcoal, smoky flavor

Cons

  • Assembly takes a long time

What Recent Buyers Report

The Char-Griller Dual 2 Burner Charcoal and Gas Grill combines the best of both grill types in an affordable, efficient unit. Whether you want to slow-cook a chunk of meat or finalize your dish on the spacious side shelf, this grill is one of the best combos you will find on the market. 

Why it Stands Out to Us

This is constructed from high-quality, heavy-duty steel with a sturdy frame. If you have any doubt that its stainless-steel gauges are subject to rust and heat damage, you need to sit back and relax. After years of use, the Char-Griller retains its high standards in terms of both design and performance. 

Who Will Use This Most

This unit is recommended to grill enthusiasts who do not want to compromise on taste by choosing a charcoal or propane grill. With Char-Griller, you can have the best of both in a compact, portable model that is exceptionally resistant. It is made of heavy-duty steel, ready to provide your entire family with delicious food for years to come. 

Bottom Line

On the whole, the Char-Griller Dual 2 Burner Charcoal and Gas Grill is one of the best combos on the market. It is affordable, efficient, and long-lasting. It ticks all the boxes, and if you decide to give it a try, get ready to be impressed! 

Best Tabletop Propane Grill:
Weber 51060001 Q1200

Pros

  • Battery-powered ignition
  • Lightweight and portable
  • 189 square inches of cooking surface
  • Durable glass-reinforced nylon frame
  • One stainless-steel burner with precise control
  • Ready to use out of the box, no assembly required

Cons

  • Quite highly-priced for its capacity
  • Low heat output of only 8,500 BTU

What Recent Buyers Report

The Weber 51060001 Q1200 is a camper-friendly propane gas grill. The best aspect of this compact unit is that it already comes assembled and ready to use. This is for everyone who struggles with the missing or unclear instructions of the usual models. It is recommended for everyone!

Why it Stands Out to Us

This product features a high-quality, stainless-steel construction that encourages heat retention. It can be easily and quickly cleaned after each use. The electronic ignition is fueled by an AAA battery, which means that it is easy and safe to start. All you need to do is turn the valve on!

Who Will Use This Most

This is the best propane gas grill for outdoor spaces, recommended for single-family households or simply for anyone looking for an affordable, lightweight, and extremely portable gas grill. You can easily store it, especially due to the foldable shelves and the small footprint. 

Bottom Line

Simple to use and ready to start cooking delicious meals right out of the box, the Q1200 has an electric ignition, cast-iron cooking grates coated with porcelain enamel, and many other premium features. These features make it the perfect candidate for the best tabletop propane grill on the market!

Best 2 Burner Propane Grill:
Blackstone 28 inch Outdoor Flat Top

Pros

  • Non-stick cooking area
  • Easy cleaning and maintenance
  • Compact design with foldable legs
  • Durable steel frame, highly versatile
  • Black powder steel on the top surface
  • Includes two caster wheels for enhanced portability

Cons

  • Messy cooking due to the dripping grease system

What Recent Buyers Report

Highly compact and friendly with storage spaces, the Blackstone 28 inch Outdoor Flat Top is one of the most vacation-friendly units you can find on the market. It does not produce any smoke, and the solid steel frame is durable, rejecting rust and peeling. 

Why it Stands Out to Us

This product features two side and bottom shelves ideal for storing your ingredients, tools, and utensils. What is more, the push-button ignition is powered by a battery; thus, you can cook anytime. Lastly, the product has industrial-strength caster wheels for enhanced portability, making it the ideal companion for camping and trips. 

Who Will Use This Most

This premium-quality compact, lightweight, portable grill is recommended for trips, vacations, or outdoor barbecues for the whole family, as it features a 470 sq. inches cooking area. It has professional-quality features and can be stored in tight spaces. 

Bottom Line

The Blackstone 28 inch Outdoor Flat Top scores high on design and functionality. It is definitely an appliance you will enjoy having around when you prepare a delicious backyard barbecue. Due to its high-quality features, it is suitable for any type of food, whether it is eggs, bacon, pancakes, or the traditional steak and burgers. 

Pros and Cons of Propane Grill

All products on the market have both advantages and disadvantages. Here are the pros and cons you can expect with a propane grill:

Pros

  • Propane grills are mobile as they are fueled by a propane tank. You can take the propane tank anywhere you need and move the grill in whichever spot you enjoy most; this makes them perfect for traveling, camping, or on the beach
  • Portability is yet another benefit of propane grill; some models are extremely small, compact and lightweight and, as opposed to natural gas grills, they do not require constant access to a gas line
  • Propane grills are more affordable than natural gas grills; in addition, you can install it yourself, while the natural gas variety requires installation costs
  • The propane grill is more powerful than natural gas, with 2,5000 BTU per cubic feet compared to only 1,000 BTU for natural gas grill. This means that there is more heat available to cook the food appropriately; what's more, natural gas might have added odorant that can alter food taste

Cons

  • Propane is more expensive than natural gas; usually, the smaller the gas tank, the more expensive this becomes, thus, in the long term, a propane grill is 20-30% more expensive than a natural gas grill in terms of fuel price
  • Another downside is that you can quickly run out of gas and might find you have to stop in the middle of your grilling with no fuel. However, most propane tanks have a way of checking the level of propane left, or you can just have a spare propane tank. 

Conclusion

All things considered, we’ve offered you an extensive list of the best propane grills meeting different criteria. We are convinced you now possess all the knowledge and information to make the best choice for your needs. Our reviewed items meet different budgets, depending on their features and different functions. 

People Also Ask

If you have reached this point and still have a few questions, take a look at the most commonly asked questions and answers below.

How Long Should a Propane Grill Last?

The life of the propane grill depends on the materials it was manufactured from. For instance, Weber propane gas grills often come with a 10-year warranty; so, with proper care and maintenance, it is expected to live longer than that. Others come with no warranty, so it is difficult to estimate – anywhere from a few months to a few years. 

What Happens If You Don’t Clean Your Grill?

If you don’t clean your grill, the fresh meat will be exposed to old food remnants, debris, and dirt. This is because pieces of meat get stuck to the grill and then get transferred to your fresh meat. Also, all the leftover fats, grease, and meat pieces from the bottom of the grill will coat your fresh meat through the smoke. 

Should You Clean BBQ Grill After Every Use?

The grill grates need to be brushed after each use. Make sure you check for wire brush bristles before you start cooking! The grill needs a thorough cleaning every few months or more frequently, depending on how often you use it. This prolongs its life and keeps your food fresh and clean. 

How Does Propane Grill Work?

The source of propane gas is connected to the valve regulators through a hose. When you turn the knobs on the grill, you restrict or allow gas access to the burner. Usually, each burner has tiny holes that will enable the gas to exit safely. Most propane grills have electronic ignition that allows the grill to work. 

Should You Turn Off Propane Tank After Grilling?

Once you finish grilling, you need to turn off the propane tank first, then the knobs on the grill. It is important to cut the supply of gas fueling the flame first. 

What is Cheaper: Charcoal or Propane?

A propane gas grill is more expensive than a charcoal grill, but charcoal as a fuel is much more expensive than propane. If you grill frequently, propane is more economical from a cost perspective, and it is also environmentally-friendly.

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!