90+ Grills Tested: The Ones You'll Actually Want

Michael Chang · 2026-05-19

When it comes to grilling, the options can feel endless. Gas, charcoal, pellet, portable, kamado—each promises the perfect sear or smoky flavor. But which ones actually deliver? A dedicated team of cooking experts spent months testing over 90 grills to find out. They fired up everything from budget-friendly charcoal kettles to high-end smart pellet smokers, evaluating heat control, build quality, ease of use, and of course, taste. The result? A shortlist of grills that are genuinely worth your money. ### How They Tested The testing process was rigorous. Each grill was assembled, then put through a series of challenges: searing steaks, slow-smoking ribs, roasting whole chickens, and even baking pizzas. Experts monitored temperature stability, fuel efficiency, and how easy each grill was to clean and maintain. They also considered features like side burners, warming racks, and app connectivity. Durability was key—grills were left outside in various weather conditions to see how they held up over time. After all that, only a handful earned top marks. ### The Winners: Gas Grills For those who value convenience, gas grills are hard to beat. The top performers heated up quickly and maintained steady temperatures. One standout was a three-burner model that reached 500°F in under 10 minutes and offered excellent heat distribution. It also had a side burner for sauces and a large cart for storage. Another winner was a compact two-burner grill perfect for small patios or balconies. It delivered impressive searing power despite its size and cost under $300. Both models were praised for their sturdy construction and easy-to-use controls. ### The Winners: Charcoal Grills Charcoal purists, rejoice. The best charcoal grills in the test combined classic flavor with modern conveniences. A large kettle-style grill with an ash catcher and hinged grate made it easy to add charcoal mid-cook. It also had a built-in thermometer and a sturdy lid that sealed in smoke. For portability, a small hibachi-style grill impressed testers with its ability to get screaming hot for quick sears. It’s ideal for tailgating or beach trips. And for those who want a set-it-and-forget-it experience, a ceramic kamado grill delivered exceptional heat retention and could double as a smoker. It was pricey, but its versatility and lifetime warranty made it a worthy investment. ### The Winners: Pellet Grills Pellet grills have surged in popularity, and the tested models showed why. They offer the convenience of gas with the flavor of charcoal. The top pellet grill in the test had a digital controller that held temperatures within 5°F, a large hopper that held 20 pounds of pellets, and a built-in meat probe. It also came with a mobile app for remote monitoring. Another standout was a smaller pellet grill that was easy to move and perfect for weeknight dinners. It reached 450°F for grilling and could also smoke at 180°F. Testers loved its consistent performance and easy cleanup. ### What to Look For Before you buy, consider these key factors: - **Cooking area**: For a family of four, aim for at least 400 square inches of primary cooking space. - **Heat control**: Look for grills with multiple burners or adjustable vents for precise temperature control. - **Build quality**: Stainless steel or porcelain-enameled surfaces resist rust and last longer. - **Ease of cleaning**: Removable ash trays and grease pans make cleanup a breeze. - **Warranty**: A good warranty (5+ years) signals confidence in the product. ### The Bottom Line After testing 90+ grills, the experts agreed: you don’t need to spend a fortune to get great results. Whether you prefer gas, charcoal, or pellets, there are excellent options at various price points. The key is to match the grill to your cooking style and space. A grill that’s easy for you to use will get fired up more often—and that means more delicious meals shared with friends and family. So, which one will you choose?