That’s not necessarily the case with the Weber Q1200.  Weber designed this grill with the intention of providing an outdoor cooker that could easily be taken on the go, but without sacrificing quality or your ability to grill incredibly delicious foods.

In this article, we’ll do a deep dive into this grill and provide our complete, unbiased Weber Q1200 review.  By the end you should have a really good idea of everything this grill has to offer and whether or not it’s a great fit for you!

Weber – Quick Brand Overview

Before we get into the Weber Q1200 review, it’s worth taking a moment to give you a little bit of background on the Weber brand.

They’ve been a staple in the grilling community for decades now.  In 1952 Weber’s founder, George Stephen, invented the kettle grill, which at the time revolutionized the grilling game.  The buoy shaped design turned out to be a fantastic charcoal cooker, and a business was built around the success of the original kettle grill.

Over the ensuing years and decades to follow, Weber has been a leader in terms of innovation and progress in the outdoor cooking industry.  They manufacturer some of the best charcoal grills and gas grills on the market, and have recently ventured into the world of pellet grills with their SmokeFire Series.

Their products are known for quality.  One of the most common frustrations of buying cheaply made grills is that they leak heat or have hot spots, making it impossible to deliver consistently tasty food.  Weber prides themself on the construction process.  All of their grills are made from high quality, professional grade materials.

Weber also puts their money where their mouth is.  They consistently lap the field with their warranty protection.  All of their grills are covered by either a 10 year or 5 year warranty (the Q1200 has a 5 year warranty).  Either way, both of those time frames are far greater than what most other grill manufacturers offer.

To sum it up, Weber is a brand that you shouldn’t be afraid to associate with.  They have a fantastic reputation and are known for quality, innovation, and great customer service.

Weber Q1200 Review

Weber Q1200 Liquid Propane Grill

• 189 sq. in. cooking surface area
• Weighs only 30 pounds
• Two side tables provide extra organization and serving space

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The Weber Q1200 Propane Gas Grill is one of Weber’s most versatile cookers, and technically qualifies as both a portable and tabletop gas grill.  Most of the time with those types of grills, some sort of sacrifice has to be made in order to achieve the convenience of on the go grilling.

That’s not necessarily the case with the Weber Q1200.  Performance wise, it has enough horsepower to handle most every grilling duty while also remaining compact enough to easily travel with.

It’s powered by 1 pound liquid propane canisters, which fuel one high quality stainless steel circular shaped burner.  The burner is capable of producing 8,500 BTUs of heat output to comfortably heat the 189 square inch cooking area.  The cooking grates are made of porcelain enameled cast iron and are an ideal surface to grill on.  They do a fantastic job of retaining and distributing heat, and they are also quite easy to clean.

An easy start ignition and highly adjustable burner valves make setting up your fire and controlling your temperature easy and simple.  The lid hinges are extra smooth and easy to operate – all of these factors contribute to an overall ease of use of the Q1200 that rivals just about any grill.

Two side tables provide a generous amount of organization and work space for you to utilize while you grill.  Most portable grills don’t have side tables so in that regard, the Weber Q1200 is superior.

With dimensions of 15.5 H x 40.9 W x 16.5 D and a weight of only 30 pounds, it’s a bona fide portable grill.  You can easily take this cooker on the go with you to the campsite or your tailgate party.  When it’s time to clean up, a built in grease management system helps for you to get the cleanup process over with in a jiffy.

When juices drip off of your meat, the grease management system naturally captures and funnels the grease down to a catch pan.  The pan sits underneath the cook box at a safe distance, and can be easily removed for cleaning when necessary.

All around, the Weber Q1200 is the exact grill you want to take with you in an on the go situation.  There’s not much to dislike with this grill.  You’re afforded the ability and quality of a full sized, freestanding grill but with the convenience of a portable grill.  And if you’re into styling up your grill, it’s offered in a handful of different traditional and fun colors!

Things We Like

• Powerful stainless steel burner and cast iron cooking grate translate to excellent cooking abilities
• Compact footprint and lightweight design are easy to take on the go
• Lid and body are made of high quality cast aluminum and do a fantastic job of retaining heat
• 189 square inches of cooking surface area is generous for a portable grill
• Two side tables provide lots of extra organization and serving space
• Built in grease management system eliminates lots of clean up hassle
• Easy start ignition, highly adjustable burner valve, and smooth lid hinges
• Comes in lots of different fun colors
• Covered by a 5 year warranty

Things We Don’t

• Might sound nit-picky, but the one burner setup means you are limited to one temperature zone cooking
• No locking lid, which we’d like to see on a portable grill.  You can still carry it around easily but it just requires 2 hands.

Weber Q1200 Specifications

Here are the specs on the Weber Q1200:

• Main Burners: 8,500 BTUs
• Burner Type: Stainless Steel
• Dimensions: 15.5″H X 40.9″W X 16.5″D (lid closed and tables out), 24.6″H X 40.9″W X 20.5″D (lid open and tables out)
• Cooking Surface Area: 189 square inches
• Fuel Type: Liquid Propane (1 lb cylinders)
• Grates: Porcelain enameled cast iron
• Warranty: 5 years (cook box surface, lid, burners, grates, plastic), 2 years (all remaining parts)

Add-Ons

One of the best things about Weber is that for all of their grills, they offer a robust selection of add on accessories to elevate your base unit.  The Weber Q1200 is no different, with great add ons offered including:

• Premium tool set
• Griddle cooking surface
• Portable cart (to convert to freestanding grill)
• Premium grill cover

More Resources to Check Out

Here are a few other resources worth checking out if you’re considering the Weber Q1200.  We’ve done extensive reviews on other portable grills and Weber grills here:

• Best portable grills
• Best table top grills
• Weber Spirit vs Genesis
• Weber E210 vs E310

And for all of my visual learners out there, here’s a great video showcasing the cooking ability of the Weber Q1200.

Weber Q1200 Review – Final Thoughts

I hope this Weber Q1200 review has helped to clear up your search for the right grill for you!  It’s a great on the go grill, with powerful burners and other features built to set you up for success.

At the end of the day, it’s a fantastic situational grill made by a quality brand.  Price wise, it’s not going to break the bank either!

Did you end up getting the Q1200?  How do you like it?  We’d love to hear about it in the comments section below!

The post Weber Q1200 Propane Grill Review – Our Thoughts Weber’s Most Popular Portable Grill appeared first on Own The Grill.

It should come as no surprise that some grills are better than others when it comes to tailgating. There are a few different things you should keep in mind when selecting.

That’s what this guide is for: To help you find the best grills that you can use at a tailgating near, or far away, from you!

What Is Tailgating?

Just to get the uninitiated up to speed, Tailgating is when you and your friends meet at one location and then go to another place together to eat, drink, and catch up with people.

Tailgating can take place pretty much anywhere, from a park or stadium, to the beach or even in someone’s backyard.

If you’re planning on grilling at a tailgating, you require a grill that can be easily moved by one or two people and can cook enough food to satisfy a reasonably large amount of people.

Best Grills for Tailgating

Traeger Grills Tailgater Portable Grill

Traeger Tailgater 20 Portable Pellet Grill

• Folding wheeled legs for easy transport
• 300 sq. in. cooking surface area
• 180-450ºF temperature range

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Traeger has been around since 1985, so they have a little experience when it comes to making a good grill. For the tailgating market, they have come up with a very impressive portable pellet grill design for those on-the-fly cook-out parties that we love about summer!

With its digital controller for excellent temperature control, the Tailgater lets you adjust the heat output up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.

This means you can sear your steaks or chops to perfection while keeping them warm and juicy throughout. When it comes to grilling, it is tough to compete with results like this.

You can also use the Tailgater to cook low and slow – while it’s probably too small to fit a whole brisket, you could fit a pork butt or other popular meats for BBQ.

And if you ever run out of pellets, simply load another box into the hopper, and it’s ready to go again. Plus, the Tailgater weighs surprisingly little too, making it easy to transport and set up, perfect for cookouts on the move.

Pros

• Great temperature consistency – Not only does this grill get hot, reaching temperatures of well over 400 degrees Fahrenheit, but it stays hot too. A grill that can’t keep up the heat is almost as bad as having no grill at all, so this is an excellent quality feature the Tailgater has.
• Easily cleanable – All the interior sections of this grill can be easily removed and cleaned after being used. Great for keeping your grill in top condition, and to avoid grease and fat buildup in this cooking tool.
• A portable tailgating grill – Being able to move your grill for your tailgating cookouts is essential, so the collapsible legs of this unit are an exceptional feature for taking your gill outs wherever you go.

Cons

• Awkward legs – Whilst the legs are amazingly stable once folded out correctly, it can be a little awkward to set this grill up and to collapse it back into a more movable form, especially if you are setting it up on your own.
• Hefty load – At 62 pounds, you’re probably going to struggle moving this heavy-duty grill around on your own.
• Relatively small fuel capacity – With the hopper for this grill only able to take about 8 pounds of pellet fuel at a time, you’ll probably have to refuel after just a few hours. For a whole-day cookout, that’s not exactly ideal.

Our Thoughts

With this grill eating up fuel pretty quickly, it pays to be able to use whatever you have access to. If you’re looking for a portable grill with reasonable grilling capacity, this is a great model.

Coleman Roadtrip 285 Portable Stand-up Grill

Coleman RoadTrip 285 Portable Stand-Up Propane Grill

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Looking for a tailgating grill that can do it all, from being moved from your backyard to the back of your truck, taking it to your cookout spot, and cooking up a huge grill when you get there, you can’t go wrong with the road trip portable stand-up grill from Coleman.

Coleman RoadTrip’s grill has been designed with ease of use in mind to give you the best possible outdoor cooking experience.

This portable, compact and lightweight stand-up grill comes with a durable aluminum handle and foldable legs for storage, so you don’t have to worry about dragging it around everywhere you take it.

And thanks to its folding legs, it takes up less space in your vehicle than a conventional stand-up grill. It has three adjustable burners and a large grill surface.

It uses a standard 1 pound propane tank, though you will have to source this for yourself, as the grill does not come with one as standard.

Pros

• Excellent Burner quality – With as much as 20,000 BTUs of grilling power at your disposal, the adjustable burners that come as standard for this iron-cast grill give you all the power and heat that you need to make the best grill out possible!
• Easy to move and transport – Mobility is key for a great tailgate grill, so the collapsible legs and wheels on the Coleman RoadTrip make transporting a breeze.

Cons

• Iron grates are hard to maintain – Cleaning the Coleman RoadTrip grill is going to be a hassle if you don’t tend to it shortly after it is used. Plus, the cast-iron grill may tend to rust if not looked after properly between uses, so make sure that you keep an eye out for any signs of wear and tear between uses.
• Wheels used aren’t the highest quality – The wheels probably aren’t built for all-terrain purposes, so be careful where you are pulling it when it is folded up.
• Lid-locking mechanism not ideal – The lock that keeps the lid of this grill from bouncing around works fine at first but seems to show signs of wear after repeated uses. You may have to fashion a way to keep the lid shut as you are transporting it after a while.

Our Thoughts

Whether this grill is for camping or cooking in your or someone else’s backyard, the Coleman RoadTrip grill feels like it can cover pretty much every grilling situation, including being the main workhorse of an amazing tailgating party. 

The mobility of the design certainly helps in giving it the versatility that this grill is known for. Small wonder that this propane grill is a favorite of many campers and grillers across the country.

It took about 45 minutes to get it set up and running, which is not too long, all things considered. Once the heat was up, it got the job done without any problems. Overall, this is a tailgating grill that should be high on your options list when it comes time to buy a commercial grill.

Weber Smokey Joe Portable Grill

Weber Smokey Joe Portable Grill

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Looking to be a part of a tailgating grill out, but worried that you don’t have the budget to bring a high-quality grill to your summer party?

Well, if this is the case, and money is a concern for you when looking for your cooking kit, then Weber’s 10020 Smokey Joe is exactly the grill you need to cook with the best of them.

Weber Smokey Joe grills are designed to be used anywhere, anytime. They are compact, lightweight, durable, and built to withstand the elements. With this model of charcoal grill, you can enjoy outdoor dining without having to sacrifice style and convenience.

They’re easy to use and maintain. Simply fill the water pan with water and add charcoal briquettes. Then place the grill on the grate and light the fire.

When you’re ready to cook, flip the lid open and place food on the grill. It takes just seconds to get started. And when it’s time to eat, close the lid and enjoy!

Pros

• Great lightweight design – Despite what the bulbous design of the lid might suggest, this tailgate grill is very lightweight and easy to move around. Not just that, but the tripod leg setup means that it will be more than stable enough for any party out the back of your truck. The porcelain-enameled lid and body will also stop rust from creeping into this little grill, keeping it good to cook for years to come.
• Excellent starting price – In the range that this model is normally found, this is probably one of the least expensive grills you can take to your tailgate parties, without sacrificing quality in any noticeable way.
• Adjustable temperature and airflow – This is a great feature that even some higher-end tailgate grills don’t have, so to see it appear on a model of this price range is amazing. This will allow you to be able to heat up or cool down your fire pit with ease, to get that perfect charred texture on your hot dogs and burgers.

Cons

• A smaller grill, maybe not appropriate for the big gatherings – Although it can cook a respectable amount of food in one go, with 147 square inches of cooking space, it simply doesn’t have the volume or surface area to compete with other larger models in this guide. For this price, this is still a great amount to be able to cook. And at those massive parties, every little grill helps feed everyone!
• Height is not adjustable – The legs cannot be extended or shortened to your needs, so you will likely have to sit over this grill while you cook your food, rather than stand.

Our Thoughts

We were able to get this grill set up quickly, and it works great, especially for smaller outdoor grills and parties you might be attending.

The workload might not be the largest in this competitive market, but it was more than enough to cook several burgers at one time, and they came out perfectly cooked.

It’s great that it is compact enough to fit into pretty much any car trunk, even if the shape does make it a little awkward. It has such a small footprint that, if smoke wasn’t an issue, you could probably use this grill indoors as well as outside.

If you’re looking to help with a tailgating grill out on a budget, this is a good option to consider.

Cuisinart CGG-180T Petit Gourmet Portable Grill

Cuisinart CGG180 Petit Gourmet Gas Grill

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Looking for a grill that won’t take up too much room in your trunk? Then Cuisinart has you covered with the Petit Gourmet CGG-180T.

Cuisinart are masters of cooking and kitchenware, and their entrance into the tailgate grill market brings that expertise with it.

This portable gas grill is one of those propane grill models that are perfect for smaller spaces where you might be holding your tailgate party, whether that’s in someone’s smaller backyard, or in a clearing where cooking space is at a premium. 

Its size makes it easy to transport and use anywhere. With a total cooking surface of 145 square inches, it’s big enough to feed a pretty sizable crowd without having to do much work. 

The grill comes with a convenient carrying handle and an integrated lid lock so you can keep the lid securely closed while using the grill.

Even better, the sturdy aluminum legs fold flat when not in use, becoming a perfect briefcase shape to be carried around with one hand. All these features make this grill ideal for camping trips, picnics, barbecues, and, of course, tailgating.

Pros

• Lightweight, and easy to carry – With the grill only weighing less than 14 pounds, and a small collapsible body that can be carried with just one hand like a suitcase, this is a brilliant compact grill that can be taken pretty much anywhere you go.
• A surprising amount of grill space available – for something as small and compact as this, being able to fit upwards of 6 or 7 steaks at a time is very impressive!

Cons

• The lid-locking mechanism may start to fail over time – Being made out of plastic on a grill that can reach incredibly high internal temperatures feels like a strange design quirk for a mechanism that is supposed to keep the lid shut tightly. Especially when the lid handle is located on the lid. Make sure to avoid closing the lid if the heat is at high temperatures.

Our Thoughts

This is a great piece of outdoor cooking equipment to have if you don’t have the space for a larger grill. It’s perfect for camping, picnics, tailgates, etc. We use it often for barbecues during the summer months.

It’s easy to use, easy to clean, and cooks fast! Whilst it will probably never carry the heavyweight of any large gathering, this is certainly a great tool for if you are at a small outdoor party, or you need an extra grill to support your buddy who’s underestimated just how many people are looking for a good grill out!

We would recommend this option for anyone looking for a portable and affordable grill that won’t break the bank and wants to be able to cook in pretty much any space that’s wider than 20 inches.

Weber Q2200 Propane Gas Grill

Weber Q2000 Liquid Propane Grill

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Weber is at it again with another excellent grill, this time in the form of the Q2200 propane gas grill.

Whilst all the grills we have discussed are exceptional pieces of a griller’s toolkit, a few of them have been on the smaller size.

That’s not the case with the Q2200, however. This model is a heavy grill that will be the centerpiece of grilling wherever you are parked, whether that’s in the backyard or an open field.

The Weber Q220 is one of the largest full-size grills in its class. With the stainless steel burner putting out 12,000 BTUs per hour and porcelain-enamel coated, cast-iron cooking racks, this grill is sure to give you years of worry-free operation. 

Two folding work tables help keep food warm during transport, and the electronic ignition system makes starting the grill easy and fast.

Pros

• A big grill – Square inch cooking surface won’t be an issue with this grill, at 280 inches for your grilling needs. This is the sort of barbecue grill you need for a larger gathering whilst you’re tailgating.
• Fold-out accessory trays – These are a must for being able to manage your massive grilling workload!

Cons

• A bigger grill means a heavier load – At almost 43 pounds, this is one of the heavier models of grills that we have covered, especially with no wheels to help move that weight around. This is definitely on the heavier side of what is considered ‘portable’.

Our Thoughts

Honestly, there isn’t much else to say about Weber Q2200 that can emphasize just how great this grill is for large gatherings on the move.

It’s easy to use, easy to clean, easy to store, easy to set up, and if you have an extra pair of hands to help you move it, not too difficult to move from your trunk to your tailgating site.

Everdure Cube Grill

Everdure CUBE Portable Charcoal Grill

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When it comes to both portability and cooking area in an easy-to-transport package, it’ll be tough to beat the cube grill by Everdure.

This little piece of barbecuing kit is the ultimate portable medium-sized grill. It has been designed keeping in mind all the needs of the modern-day traveler. It weighs less than 20 pounds and is compact enough to fit easily inside even the back of your car, much less the back of your truck.

Portable, compact, durable, easy to clean, safe, convenient, and affordable; the Everdure Cube portable barbecue grill is just what you require for outdoor cooking. It features a 115 square inch cooking area, a sturdy steel frame, and a built-in stainless steel grate.

Perfect for those smaller grill parties with your family and closest friends.

Pros

• Amazing heat retention for its size – It can be harder for smaller grills to maintain the heat necessary to keep cooking for long periods. So it’s incredible how hot this grill can get, as well as staying at that heat whilst cooking all your tailgating snacks!
• Easy to handle – The intelligent design of this grill, with its handle, its compact frame, and its heat shielding, means that this grill is very easy to handle for a single person, whether that’s for carrying out of the truck, or being put back into storage after being used.
• Great accessories – Thanks to its design, this portable charcoal grill comes equipped with both a food storage tray and a preparation tray that are stored seamlessly and beautifully into the grill. That way, you always have your cooking station ready!

Cons

• Too good at retaining heat – The heat shielding this grill has might work a little too well! It can take a long time for the ashes of your charcoal to cool down after using it, which can mean waiting a long time for this grill to become safe to handle. And whilst the handles are heat-resistant for touching whilst it is on, we wouldn’t recommend carrying hot ashes around!

Out Thoughts

Never underestimate the user-friendliness of an easy to assemble grill! It’s pretty much ideal for any grilling scenario, whether that’s camping, tailgating, or even at home.

We would recommend this to anyone looking for a medium-sized grill that is easy to clean and suitable for pretty much any smaller-scale cookout. Though, you should probably look for other models if you know it’s going to be a big party.

Choosing a Great Tailgating Grill

When looking for a tailgating grill, there’s a lot to consider. If you’re still not sure what things you need to be on the lookout for in your grill of choice, here are a couple of features you should consider:

Portability

One of the most important considerations when choosing a tailgating grill is portability. You want something that you can easily move from place to place without having to spend hours setting it up and tearing it down every single time.

There are many different types of portable grills available. The simplest way to get portability is to look for a grill that has foldaway legs. These allow you to simply unfold them as needed, so they don’t take up much room when folded away.

Wheels are another popular option, as it takes less effort to haul larger weight if you can pull it with you. Carryable grills are a popular option too, but they tend to be smaller a lot of the time.

Cooking Capacity

Right behind portability, cooking capacity is one of the most important features a grill needs. It doesn’t matter how portable you are if you can’t cook enough food to feed everyone!

A good rule of thumb is to make sure that you can comfortably fit 4 people’s food items on the grill at once.

You may find yourself wanting more than this depending on the size of your group, but 4 people’s worth of food is a good guideline to follow and can be scaled up from there if there are more people.

Fuel Type

Depending on where you’re going to be using your grill, you will need to choose a fuel type. Charcoal grills are usually easier to handle and maintain, though gas grills tend to offer superior performance, as they usually take less time to warm up. 

The other main options are electric grills and pellet grills – both of which are easy to use but come with their own limitations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use My Tailgating Grill At Home?

Absolutely! That is one of the joys of having a tailgating grill. It’s that it can be used anywhere! We’ve seen folks use their tailgating grills while camping, hiking, as well as at home!

Final Thoughts

As you can see, there’s plenty of variety when it comes to grills for tailgating. There are all kinds of different styles and sizes, and each one offers unique benefits.

If you’re looking to buy a new grill for tailgating, we’d suggest taking a look around and seeing which ones suit your needs best.

Looking for inspiration of what to cook at your next tailgate? Check out our list of grilling ideas for your next cookout!

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You may have noticed that Weber gas grills aren’t necessarily in the bargain bin when it comes to price, especially when you compare them to the grill brands you’d find sitting outside of big home improvement stores like Lowe’s and Home Depot.

The logical questions that follow then would be “are Weber grills worth the money?” or “why are Weber grills so expensive?”.  The good news is, we’re here to help and break down Weber grills, why they’re priced the way they are, and whether or not they deliver bang for your buck.

Are Weber Grills Worth the Money?

The short answer is yes, we think Weber grills are worth the money, generally speaking – and there are multiple reasons why we think that’s the case.  To name a couple right off the bat, Weber grills will last you quite a long time and they outperform much of the competition on the market – especially bargain brands.

With that being said, the answer to that question largely depends on which price range you are looking at and what you’re hoping to get out of your grill.

Understanding Weber Grill Series & Price Tiers

When it comes to gas grills, Weber has 3 flagship series, or types, of grills that they sell – and the products within each series are all similarly situated to one another in terms of features, build material, extras, etc.

The series are the Spirit, Genesis, and Summit.  Weber’s Spirit grills are their lowest priced offering, and feature mostly 2 burner and 3 burner options.  Weber Genesis grills are a step up in price and feature mostly 3 burner and 4 burner grills, but there are also a couple of 2 burner options.  Weber Summit grills are their high end line and feature a wide range of options, up to 6 burners, and additional configurations like built-ins or kamados (egg shaped grills).

When you consider that grills on the market can range anywhere from $200 for a bare bones entry level grill all the way to $5,000+ for high end gas grills, all of a sudden Weber grills (especially Spirit series) seem more-so like they’re worth the money.

Note that we’ve created extensive side by side guides to the differences between Weber Spirit and Genesis grills, and then between Weber Genesis and Summit grills – which are both great resources if you end up wanting to do more research about these grills.

Are Weber Spirit Grills Worth the Money?

Weber Spirit II Propane Grill

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Weber’s Spirit II grills fall within the price range of $389 to $499 – and while there are certainly cheaper options out there in the $200-300 range, you’re highly unlikely to find a better quality grill for less than $500.

Unfortunately, most grills under the $300 price point are made with inferior build materials, poor design, or both.

The end result is a grill that’s not well made and may have poor performance due to lack of temperature control, hot spots on the grill, or parts that easily erode after a grilling season or two.

Weber’s advantage as a larger operation comes into play here.  Since they have better manufacturing systems and a larger scale than most other grill brands, they’re able to provide a truly quality grill at a reasonable cost with their Spirit line.

All of the spirit grills feature a weather resistant, built-to-last porcelain enameled hood and cast iron cooking grates that produce beautiful sear marks on your food.  Further, all of their grills have easy push-to-start ignition, grease management for easy clean up, and v shaped bars that protect your burners from food drippings (these bars actually vaporize drippings on contact, which rise back up into your food to add extra flavor during your cook).

All of these features you won’t find on other budget grills – they’re the kind of features you’d find on a mid level grill.

It’s for all of those reasons that we think Weber Spirit Grills are definitely worth the money.

Are Weber Genesis Grills Worth the Money?

Weber Genesis II E-435 4-Burner Gas Grill

• 69,000 total BTUs heat output
• 844 sq. in. cooking surface area
• Backed by 10 year warranty

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The Genesis series is Weber’s mid range grill – and they come with a few upgrades relative to the Spirit series.  Genesis burners are a little bit more powerful, and the grills come with a lot more options like sear burners, enclosed carts, accessory storage, etc.

Also, Genesis grills have a stainless steel lid handle and trim on the hood, whereas Spirit lid handles and trim are made of a high quality plastic.

All of these upgrades and extras put Weber Genesis grills in the $779 to $1,299 range – which is definitely more expensive than other grill brands on the market.

Here’s where the answer to the question “are Weber grills worth the money?” starts to get a little murky – even though we’d say that the Genesis grills still provide excellent value.  It’s just that everybody has different preferences and expectations with their grills.

There also isn’t a large peer group for the Genesis series in terms of quality and price – Napoleon grills come to mind, but they are probably targeting a more luxury market and are a little more expensive than comparable Weber grills across the board.  We’ve done a side by side comparison of Weber vs Napoleon if you’re interested in a deep dive on this topic.

The Genesis line of grills perform excellently and are built to last – I can personally attest to that!  Mine is over 4 years old now and still runs hot and provides an even temperature across the cooking chamber each time I fire it up.  After a quick spray and clean, it looks like new too – the porcelain enameled lid is a great look that has withstood the test of time, even though I live in a humid climate (note I cover my grill when I’m not using it).

However, if you are only going to use a grill a couple of times per month or don’t plan on entertaining large crowds – one of these grills could be overkill and not worth the price.

Are Weber Summit Grills Worth the Money?

Weber Summit S-670 Gas Grill With Rotisserie & Side Burner

• 769 sq. in. total cooking surface area
• Rear infrared rotisserie burner, rotisserie kit, sear station, side burner all included
• Lots of shelf and storage space

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The Summit series grills can cost upwards of $2,500 – and this is where Weber starts to loose value relative to the competition.  I don’t want to make it sound like Summit grills aren’t fantastic outdoor cookers – because they are.

It’s just that there are dozens of brands in the high end and luxury grill market that provide equal or better cooking performance at similar or even better prices, in some cases.  Blaze Grills are a great example – they offer a more comprehensive line of high-end grills than Weber, we’d argue more performance and features, at competitive prices to what Weber offers.

Why Are Weber Grills So Expensive?

The Weber brand has been around for quite some time and has a pretty good operation going.

On one hand, their products can have a high price tag, but on the other hand when you consider the amount of design, work, and support that goes into their products, it’s easier to see the value they’re offering to backyard BBQ’ers.

Here are some of the top costs that contribute to Weber’s price tag:

Design

Businesses that don’t innovate typically don’t last long.  Throughout Weber’s history, they have pushed the envelope to develop new grills that burn hotter, cook more consistently, last longer, and that are just flat out better.  Nowadays, they’re constantly improving their existing product line while also developing new products (like pellet grills and kamado style grills).

The continued investment in design, research, and development comes at a cost – which inevitably gets passed on to the consumer in the form of extra dollars on the product price tag.

Build Material

When it comes to materials used in construction of their grills, Weber does not cut any corners.  Built to last means using materials that are going to perform and last well into the future.

Weber cooking grates are either stainless steel or cast iron, and their hoods feature that hard to miss powder coated porcelain enameled finish.

Some of their higher end cookers also have stainless steel accents and other parts that come from relatively expensive raw materials.

Customer Support

Weber also has a robust support staff that will assist you if you’re having trouble with your grill, or if you need help finding the right replacement part after years of using your grill.

Customer service is one of those things that might sound unnecessary – especially if it makes your grill more expensive.  But when you need help, it’s way better to have somebody there to walk you through your issue than not.

Warranty

Most Weber grills, and the parts inside are covered by a 10 year warranty – which is a far more generous warranty coverage period than cheap grill brands out on the market.  While the warranty means you’ll pay more now for a grill with Weber, you’re in a sense guaranteeing the longevity of your purchase.

Final Thoughts

If you came to this resource wondering “are Weber Grills worth it?”, I hope we shed enough light on the situation for you to feel like you know the answer to that question.

As proud Weber owners here, we definitely think that Weber grills are worth the money – but we think that the unique value they offer declines as you move into their high-end line of grills (and that’s only because the competition is stiffer in the high-end market).

Either way, we’d venture to say that you won’t be disappointed if you end up with a Weber on your back patio.

The post Are Weber Grills Worth the Money? appeared first on Own The Grill.

I like to sit around the pool, barbecue, grill, stuff like that. Just the guy next door, I guess

– Dale Earnhardt Jr.

He may be one of the most decorated drivers in the history of NASCAR and have the sort of high-speed life that most of us can only dream of, but Dale Earnhardt Jr. knows exactly what makes the average American tick.

Fast cars and the glitz and glamor of victory might make you rich and famous, but they won’t make you happy in the same way that spending time with friends, family and a good grill will.

Fame is fleeting, but barbecue is eternal. Dale knows that, and that’s why he still spends his downtime hanging out and grilling.

Junior is also wise enough to know that when you reach the sort of plateau that he has, you can’t afford to stand behind, and pledge your allegiance to any brand, especially one that’s dedicated to the art of grilling.

But we’re not Dale, we’re not famous and we believe in finding the best tools to do the best job, and because we’re barbecue fiends and grilling fanatics, we set out to find the grills that’ll make the best BBQ this side of the Rocky Mountains.

It’s a tough job, but it’s one that we’ve put our grilling muscles and barbecuing know behind, and it’s led us here. You might have come across the brand names Traeger and Weber before, as they’re both staples in the grilling community.

The Traeger Ironwood, and the Weber Smokefire are their respective flagship smoker grills. In this article, we’ve compared and contrasted each so that by the end, you should know which is best for you between the Traeger Ironwood vs Weber Smokefire.

Note that we are comparing the most popular sizes to one another – each of the below grills come in bigger size options if you need more grill!

Traeger vs Weber – Head to Head

Traeger Ironwood 650 Pellet Grill

Traeger Ironwood 650 WiFi Pellet Grill

• 650 sq. in. cooking surface area
• 20 lb pellet hopper capacity
• WiFire Technology - manage your cook from a smartphone
• Also available on BBQGuys

Check Price on Traeger Check Price on Amazon

Our first contender is the Ironwood 650 from the heavyweight champions of the wood pellet grilling world, Traeger Grills.

They’re a brand that was founded to push the cause of pellet grills as far as possible, because they believe that everything tastes better when it’s grilled using wood, and one of their flagship grills that they invite everyone to join them in the Traegerhood with is the Ironwood 650.

From the off, we fell in love with the Ironwood 650 almost straight away. It’s a near-perfect fusion of grilling technology, passion, and innovation.

It’s one of Traegers six in on grills that‘s as comfortable grilling as it is barbecuing, smoking, braising, roasting, and baking, and while we can’t confirm how good it is at making apple pies, as baking isn’t part of our skillset or in our wheelhouse of culinary expertise, we can happily confirm that it’s more than capable of doing everything else with the sort of deft touch and flourish that only a Traeger grill can. 

With a total cooking space of six hundred and fifty square inches, the Traeger has enough room to grill up a storm of epic proportions and was easily able to handle the four burgers, three steaks, and chicken that we grilled.

It has two operational modes, manual which is the definition of simplicity, you just add whatever it is you want to cool to the grill, close the barrel, set the temperature, ignite the Ironwood and stand back and wait for it to finish.

The other uses the Traegers WiFire app to control the grilling. The app lets you set the temperature of the grill and the timer and also displays the temperature of the meat probe, so you’re constantly kept up to date and are always aware of what’s going on in the cooking process. 

WiFIre also comes with its own recipe book, which you can open on your smartphone, select a recipe from, and then send it directly to your Ironwood. The grill then sets the temperature and timer for that recipe and takes over the cooking process.

Note: you can check out our full on Ironwood 650 review here for even more detail.

In fact, the only thing that the app can’t do is fire the grill up. You have to do that by hand, but as it’s just a matter of pushing a single button, it isn’t exactly going to give you back strain.

Then there’s the Ironwood’s hopper, which holds an incredible twenty pounds of pellets, and when it’s fired up, just keeps on making heat. Even though we spent most of the afternoon grilling, we didn’t have to stop to refuel the hopper once we just kept on going and it just kept on making heat.

And if you do start running out of pellets? The Traeger has a built-in sensor that alerts you and lets you know that you need to add more fuel to its fire, but as it wasn’t triggered during our lengthy grill session, we figure that you’ll have to put some serious cooking time in before it even becomes an issue.

The only other thing that we didn’t like about the Ironwood was its weight, and while the wheels are almost certainly only there for show, at nearly one hundred and fifty pounds if you did want to move the Ironwood, you’d need to be packing some serious muscle, or you run the risk of throwing your back out or giving yourself a hernia. 

Weber SmokeFire EX4 Pellet Grill

Weber SmokeFire EX4 Wi-Fi Pellet Grill - Gen 2

• 672 sq. in. cooking surface area
• Temperature range of 200-600ºF
• 20 lb pellet hopper

Check Price on Weber Check Price on Amazon

Weber, during the last seven decades, has become synonymous with grilling. They’re a die-hard grilling institution that has more grilling firsts under their belt than just about any other brand in the barbecuing world. 

And, being fully aware of their reputation, and even though we’d never used one of their grills before, we were more than a little happy to get our hands on the second generation Smokefire pellet grill for a solid afternoon of barbecuing.  (They had some pretty severe issues with their first generation models, so they did a re-launch in the second half of 2020).

Even though they claim the Smokefire has six hundred and seventy-two square inches of cooking space, for all intents and purposes, it has the same grilling surface area that the Ironwood does, which means that you’ll be able to cook the same amount of food on both grills.

We did, and they both coped more than adequately with our cookout. That said, the Weber is capable of a faster food turn around if you crank it up as far as it will go, as that one hundred degrees temperature differential (the Smokefire can hit six hundred degrees, which is a little more than the Traeger) can significantly reduce your cooking time.

Or, at least it can if you want it too, but as we all know that slow is best as far as grilling and barbecue are concerned, it’s a feature that you’ll probably never use unless you’re really cranking it up for a sear. But it’s nice to know that the Weber has that additional gas in its tank should you need it.

Like the Ironwood, the Smokefire is a proponent of smart technology, but for hands-on grillers like us, the Weber app that lets you cook from your smartphone or tablet has the edge over the Traeger as it’s more instructional and still lets you be fully involved in every step of the grilling process.

And the manual control, which like the rest of the Smokefire is completely weather resistant, is also easy to straightforward and makes the art of good grilling and great barbecue simple and even more addictive than it already is.

The combination of technology and good old fashioned smoking and grilling know-how that Weber has infused into the design of the Smokefire have ensured that it’s a pellet grill that’s hard to resist when it comes to kitting out your yard.

And that leads us into another of the Smokefire’s user-friendly features – the size of it’s the hopper and how easy it is to clean-up after you’ve finished grilling, barbecuing, and smoking. 

The size of the hopper is nice too, it’s twenty-pound limit means that you’ll be able to grill all day and well into the evening without having to refuel.

We filled the hopper to capacity, and by the time we were done grilling, we figured that there were enough pellets left for at least one, and maybe even two, more cookouts.  The thing that impressed us the most though was how painless and trouble-free cleaning up the Smokefire was.

You take the scraper that comes with the Smokefire and just brush the ash into the grills removable drawer, and you’re good to go.

And that drawer? It also doubles up as a grease trap, so you just have to pull it out and empty its contents, and your Smokefire will be grease and ash-free. We told you it was easy, didn’t we?

It isn’t all plain grilling sailing with the Smokefire though. It does have one glaring problem that’s a real elephant in the barbecuing room. It’s heavier than a small family car. At one hundred and seventy-six pounds, it’s not the sort of grill that’s easy to move or relocate.

Unless you’re used to back-breaking manual labor or have been buddying up with Dolph Lundgren at the gym, you’re going to be hard pushed to move the Smokefire anywhere.

Once you’ve found a place for it in your yard, you’ll have to resign yourself to the fact that it’ll be staying in that spot for the foreseeable future.

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And Our Winner Is…

We’ve already admitted we were, and are Traeger fanatics, but the Weber more than impressed us and made us re-evaluate our brand loyalty.

Both grills are easy to use, similarly priced, and will find favor with amateur grillers and dedicated barbecuers alike. But at the end of the day, the brand history and track record of Traeger gives them the nod for us.

The Weber Smokefire has a lot of potential, but I’d personally like to wait and see what customer feedback looks like from the second generation over the next few months.

Both of these grills are fantastic choices though and you really can’t go wrong.  Let us know which is your favorite in the comments section below!

The post Traeger Ironwood vs Weber Smokefire Pellet Grills – Which is Better? appeared first on Own The Grill.

While electric smokers and propane smokers share some similarities, these are definitely two different cooking vessels.  Each has its own set of pros and cons, and our goal is to help you understand the differences.  And more importantly, is an electric or propane smoker better for you and your needs?

In this article, we’ve compiled a complete round up of the propane vs electric smoker conversation.  We’ll go over the benefits and drawbacks of each, and by the end, you should have an idea of which is the best choice for you.

Propane vs Electric Smoker – High Level Overview

Relative to all of the other classes of smokers out there, propane and electric smokers definitely share the most in common.  Aesthetically, they even look quite similar – so it’s easy to see how one might think they are basically the same thing.

Both electric and propane smokers have a vertical body design, with multiple racks aligned on top of one another where your food is placed to cook.  Because of this design feature, each of these smokers can cook a generous amount of food at once in a unit with a relatively small footprint.

On top of that, both of these product types are typically quite budget friendly.  Many offset smokers, kamado grills, and other common smoker types can run you into the $500 to $1,000+ range.  With both electric and propane smokers, you can expect to only pay around $200 to $300 give or take for a quality cooker.

Even though they share many similarities, these are in fact two very different smoker classes.

Electric smokers are super easy to use and utilize an electric connection to generate heat through a heating element that’s similar to one you’d find in your oven.  By nature, electric smokers can’t run very hot, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing since most smoking cooks are done at a range of 200-275°F.  This also makes electric smokers an ideal vessel for cold smoking.

Since electric smokers rely on a plug in electrical connection, they aren’t particularly portable and also aren’t ideal for use in the rain.

Propane smokers on the other hand are much more portable and a little easier to take on the go.  You can also get away with using them in a tiny bit of adverse weather, and they cook your food by igniting propane gas and creating a flame via burners inside of the smokers.

Propane smokers are also capable of reaching higher temperatures than electric smokers – which isn’t necessarily a great thing for smoking.  It can come in handy to crisp up the outside of say, a chicken, after you smoke it, but otherwise you’ll need to make sure you don’t set your temperature dial too high on a propane smoker.  So in that regard they require a little bit more babysitting compared to their electric counterparts.

Propane Smokers – What You Need to Know

Most gas smokers utilize a connection to a standard 20 pound propane tank as the source of fuel.  Some natural gas smokers are built which hook up to your home’s gas line, but these are far less common and not widely available.

By design, portable propane tanks have a knob at the top that allows you to open and close the flow of gas out of your tank.  For a smoker, this feature comes in handy and allows you to control exactly how much fuel flows into your cooker.  Because of this, you can get your cooking chamber up to temperature extremely fast if you want to – provided your propane tank connection is fully opened.

Typically, a propane smoker will feature burners at the bottom of the cooker.  Just on top of the cooker, you’ll likely find a tray to add your wood chips for flavoring your food.  The burners will smolder the wood chips – which then emit smoke that rises vertically throughout the smoker to flavor your food.

The best propane smoker models will also feature a water bowl that can be refilled with water before and during your cook to help maintain a moist environment while your food cooks.

Benefits of Propane Smokers

• Propane smokers are highly portable – perhaps the most portable of any type of smoker.  You can take them on the go to be set up anywhere along with your propane tank – or anywhere on your back patio or backyard for that matter.  They’re an ideal choice to take tailgating or camping.
• Ongoing costs are fairly low.  Propane tanks are cheap to refill, and propane is widely available – so your ongoing costs and hassle associated with running your smoker are pretty low.
• These smokers are very cheap.  If you’re on a budget, you really aren’t going to find a more entry level price point.  And even though the average price is on the low end, the quality of food you can make on an affordable propane smoker is really high.
• Propane smokers have a simple design and function with very few “moving parts”.  Because of this, they’re straightforward to use and also will typically last a long time.
• Comparing propane vs electric smokers, propane fueled smokers are capable of making slightly tastier food with deeper flavor.  This point is definitely up for debate, but based on conversations and the opinions of master chefs and experienced pit masters we visit with, something about the propane smoker just creates results that are closer to what you’d expect out of a traditional offset smoker.

Drawbacks of Propane Smokers

• Some propane smokers have a tendency to run too hot, especially if you buy a knock off unit made by an off brand.
• Refilling your propane tank can be a hassle if you utilize your smoker frequently.  Running out of propane mid cook is bad news.
• Propane smokers tend to not be insulated the best, so they can be challenging to use in cold or windy conditions.
• The design ethos is pretty bare bones, so you won’t find any high tech features like you would on an electric smoker (such as bluetooth connectivity or phone apps to control your cooker).

Electric Smokers – What You Need to Know

As the name suggests, electric smokers utilize electricity to slow cook your food at low temperatures.  An electrical connection powers a heating element which warms up and emits heat throughout your cooker’s chamber.

The heating element itself is similar to the tube like heating elements you’d find in your home’s oven.  Similar to a traditional oven, these heating elements need a little bit of time to get warmed up.  Your electric smoker is going to take a little longer than a gas smoker to get to temperature.

With all of that in mind, an electric smoker functions in many of the same ways that a traditional oven does.  The difference being that all electric smokers have a door or a tray where you can add wood chips for smoking.  This is how you achieve some of that delicious, traditional smokey flavor that we have all come to love on our smoked foods.

On top of that, many of the best electric smokers also feature some sort of water pan.  The water pan’s function is to keep the cooking environment moist and ensure that proper moisture levels are maintained for the end results of your food.

Benefits of Electric Smokers

• Ease of use is incredibly high.  Electric smokers are probably the easiest type of smoker to use, and are bona fide “set it and forget it” style of smokers.  You can set your temperature, load up your food, and walk away to enjoy a drink or watch the game while your food cooks.
• Precise temperature control is available on most medium and high end units.  You can set your exact temperature and not worry about your unit overheating.
• Prices are very friendly.  In the propane vs electric smoker conversation, electric smokers tend to run slightly more expensive, but compared to most smoker types they are still very cheap.
• Electric smokers are very safe, and in some cases approved for apartment use.  Since you aren’t dealing with any flammable gasses or extensive amounts of smoke, these units are about as safe as any outdoor cooker is going to get.
• Since the temperature settings are so reliable and can be maintained at low temperatures, electric smokers are ideal vessels for cold smoking.  Especially for cold smoking cheese, where it’s vital to keep the cooking chamber at a low temperature.
• Some electric smokers have bluetooth connectivity and phone apps that come with them so you can monitor your cook and set temperatures from the convenience of your phone.

Drawbacks of Electric Smokers

• Electric smokers rely on a connection to electricity.  So it quickly becomes inconvenient to use it in an on the go setting – you’d either need a long extension cord or a portable power generator to get the job done.
• You won’t be able to achieve as much smokey flavor as you would on other smokers.  That’s not to say that you can’t make delicious food on an electric smoker – because you can.  The smoker just won’t burn hot enough to release the full potential of your wood flavoring chips onto your food.
• Since electrical components and more design features are involved, electric smokers are a little more prone to break.  And if they do, they are also a little more complicated to fix.
• Virtually unusable in adverse weather.  Since electricity and electrical components are involved, they are almost impossible to use in the rain or harsh cold.  And no, setting up your electric smoker in the garage is not a viable alternative.

Food Taste

Taste is another topic that’s a little bit (or a lot) subjective, but the general consensus is that there is a marked difference between the flavor an electric smoker produces vs the flavor a propane smoker produces.

That’s not to say one is better than the other per se, but it’s definitely something to keep in mind.

Electric smokers will produce milder flavors, particularly in the smoke department.  Due to the nature of their electric heating elements, they just naturally don’t impart the same level of smokey flavor that other smokers do.

Propane smokers on the other hand will achieve a little bit higher of a level of smoke and “traditional” smokey flavors.  They won’t achieve the same levels as traditional charcoal and wood fired smokers, but they are somewhere between those and electric smokers in terms of flavor.

Price

Obviously price factors into any major purchase decision.  On average, propane smokers run a little bit cheaper than electric smokers.  However, the ongoing costs of fuel for a propane tank are higher than that of an electric smoker.

At the time of this writing, it costs about $15-$20 to refill a 20 pound propane tank.  Most smokers will get about 30-35 hours of smoking done per full tank.  The cost of electricity for a full tank’s worth of cooking is much cheaper than refilling a tank.  Just something to consider if you’re planning on using your smoker multiple times per week.

General Ease of Use

Both of these types of cookers are easy to use compared to others.  But from my experience, I would definitely consider electric smokers even easier to use than propane smokers.

The reason has to do mostly with temperature control.  For some reason, propane smokers have a tendency to fluctuate in temperature from time to time, especially when used in windy conditions.  Because of that, they require a little bit more monitoring throughout the duration of your cook.

Weather

On that note, you should think about the weather and climate you live in.  If you live in a place where light rains are extremely common, the combination of wetness and electricity might not be the best idea.

Propane smokers can take a little bit more of a beating weather wise.  That’s not to say you can or should use them in a downpour, but a light rain isn’t going to get in the way of your smoking fun.

Of course, you could also just invest in a BBQ canopy instead to deal with the problem of rain and ensure that your setup is ready to handle the elements.

Cleaning

For the most part, cleaning an electric smoker and a propane smoker are pretty similar.  Especially compared to charcoal smokers, these two are some of the easiest cookers to clean out there.

With that said, I’ve found that propane smokers are maybe a little bit harder to clean.  Specifically, foods cooked in propane smokers tend to drip more fat and drippings down to the pan – I don’t know if that’s a function of the heating mechanism or not, but that’s just been my experience.

Our Thoughts On Which Is Better

To be fair, it’s hard to pick a winner here. It’s not about which is stronger – you should choose based on your own needs.

For instance, the lower range of electric smokers is valued by folks interested in cold smoking. Powerful gas smokers probably aren’t suitable for a task like this that requires some finesse.

On the other hand, gas smokers suit cooks who may want to crank up the heat from time to time for a roast. If you really want to, you can use it to grill or even sear your food.

So ultimately, it comes down to your preferences, needs, and which types of food you plan to cook – and for how many people.

Top Electric and Propane Smoker Brands

Unfortunately, there are a lot of knockoffs out there in the world of outdoor cookers.  Here is a brief list of some of the most reliable brands in propane and electric smokers.  This isn’t an exhaustive list, just a few names to help get you started!

Electric Smoker Brands

When it comes to electric smokers, some of our favorite brands include Masterbuilt, Char-Broil, Dyna-Glo, and Cuisinart.  Each of these brands has many years under their belts and has a solid reputation for making quality products and offering good customer service.

Propane Smoker Brands

On the propane smoker side, our favorite brands include Camp Chef, Pit Boss, and Cuisinart.  Similarly, each of these brands has a solid reputation in the outdoor cooking space and is known to make high quality propane smokers.

Propane vs Electric Smoker – Final Thoughts

No matter which you choose between a propane vs electric smoker, you’re well on your way to smoking delicious food.  The only next step is to decide which meats you’re going to smoke!

At the end of the day, both of these smoker types are perfectly viable.  Either one is just slightly better suited for different cooking situations and different preferences.

Which type of smoker did you end up with?  We’d love to hear about it in the comments section below!

The post Propane vs Electric Smoker – What’s the Difference? Which is Better? appeared first on Own The Grill.

If you’ve made it to this page, you’re definitely on the right track and probably already know that Rec Tec and Traeger are two of the smoker grills on the market.

We’re going to go on a deep dive and compare the Rec Tec vs Traeger brands from a high level first.  From there, we’ll do specific grill reviews of both brands to compare similarly situated grills from each in terms of features and price points.

Before we go any further, I just want to point out that both of these brands have very strong reputations in the grilling space.  You really can’t go wrong with either brand, and people have been making delicious food with both types of grills for a long time.  Without any further ado, let’s compare Rec Tec vs Traeger!

Quick Note: Rec Tec recently rebranded to ReqTeq – so if you see either of these names used out there, they are referring to the same brand!

Rec Tec vs Traeger Comparison

Temperature Control

We stress this quite a bit at Own the Grill, but temperature control is one of the most important aspects for any grill master to perfect.  The equipment you use, i.e. your grill, if made properly will help tremendously in your ability to create and maintain consistent temperatures.

Both Traeger and Rec Tec are very much ahead of the technology curve when it comes to temperature control.  Each brand has some nice features in place to make temperature control and monitoring as easy as possible while you cook.

Traeger puts a digital temperature screen and management system on each of their grills.  The digital interface is intuitive, extremely easy to read, and ideal for grilling at dusk or any time the lighting isn’t great.  Many of their units are also kitted with their trademarked WiFIRE technology, which allows you to monitor and adjust your grill from anywhere via the Traeger app.

You can change the grill temperature, monitor internal food temperature, and add smoke all from your smartphone or tablet.  Pretty impressive – and it takes away a lot of the guesswork and pain points typically associated with maintaining temperature.

Rec Tec has very similar capabilities as Traeger in this regard.  Their grills also have a built in digital temperature display and WiFi capabilities.  You simply have to download their app, and you can fire up your grill remotely.  You can also monitor your food and adjust temperatures as needed from the convenience of your phone.

Temperature Range

Traeger grills’ “High” temperature setting caps out at a hair over 400 degrees Fahrenheit.  Searing happens at temperatures above 300 degrees Fahrenheit so they can still definitely get the job done for searing.

Rec Tec actually has a better temperature range though, with their units able to work between 180 and 500 degrees Fahrenheit.

Cooking Surface Area

It’s important to think about the setting you typically cook in – and for how many people.  There are a wide variety of grill sizes across these two brands, so you’re sure to find one to suit your needs.

That being said, Traeger does offer a wider variety of options when it comes to cooking space.  In particular, their portable tailgating series offers an impressive 300 square inches of cooking space.  Rec Tec doesn’t really have a comparable product to this.

Mobility

Many people leave their grill in one spot and never have the need to move it around.  But if you’re the type who likes to bring good food along tailgating, camping, or on the go, grill mobility is super important.

Rec Tec’s smaller units come with built in folding legs that can minimize the profile of the grill pretty quickly.  As far as portability goes, it’s about as pain free as it’s going to get.

Traeger, on the other hand, has a more robust selection when it comes to grilling on the go.  They actually have a line of grills specifically designed for portability.  We already touched on their portable tailgating series, and they also have a ranger pellet grill that works on a tabletop and has dimensions of 13″ H x  21″ W x  20″ L.

Hopper Capacity

The hopper capacity is one of those things that might not sound like a huge deal, but it’s certainly a hassle to have to constantly refill.  That can definitely happen if you grill multiple times per week and have a small hopper on your pellet grill.

Rec Tec Grill hopper sizes vary based on how large the grill is – which makes intuitive sense.  More grill means more fuel requirement.  The bigger Rec Tec grills have a hopper capacity of up to 40 pounds which is huge!

Traeger grills on the other hand, pretty much all feature an 18 pound hopper.  It’s a solid size, but you’ll definitely be refilling more compared to a Rec Tec.

Rec Tec vs Traeger Verdict (Hopper Capacity): Rec Tec

Extra Features

When it comes to advanced and custom features, both brands are pretty comparable in that they get a lot of things right.  We’ve already gone over each brand’s WiFi capabilities and connectivity with each’s respective app.

This is something that separates both Traeger and Rec Tec from the competition.  The ability to so easily control and monitor your grill from your phone.

Recently, Traeger has really upped their game when it comes to extra features.  For a while there, they weren’t innovating a ton with their grills and some competitors kind of surpassed them.  Thankfully though, Traeger’s new grills now come with all of the extra features you love to see – like WiFi connectivity, great clean up systems, and much more.

Rec Tec offers a similar suite of extras, with everything from additional shelves to searing kits to high end covers, and built-in meat probe thermometers.  At Own the Grill, we think their app is a little more intuitive and robust than Traeger’s.

Warranties

One of the most important reasons to buy from a reputable brand is because of the manufacturer’s warranty.  The presence of a warranty is a strong signal to the customer that the brand stands behind the quality of their product.  As counterintuitive as it might seem, the brands with the best warranties are often the ones with the least amount of problems with their products.

When it comes to warranties, Rec Tec and Traeger are very similar.  Each has warranties covering all of their products.  The length of the warranty varies by product, but the more expensive Rec Tec units are covered by a whopping 6-year warranty.  Traeger grills are generally covered by a 3-year warranty.

Rec Tec vs Traeger Verdict (Warranties): Rec Tec

Overall Rec Tec vs Traeger Winner: Traeger

This is honestly a really close call, and the comparison feels a little bit like splitting hairs because both brands make extremely high quality pellet grills.

The thing that tips the scales in favor of Traeger to us is the bang for your buck factor.  We feel like the Traeger Ironwood series compares really well to Rec Tec Grills for a slightly better price.  Plus Traeger offers a robust line of more price friendly grills too.

Not a single stone is left unturned with either brand though – their grills offer literally everything you could ever need in a pellet grill, all the way down to built in meat probe thermometers.

Traeger – Individual Grill Reviews

I thought it would be helpful to go through some of the features of individual grills to help you in your analysis of Rec Tec vs Traeger.

Traeger Ironwood 885

Traeger Grills Ironwood 885 Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker with WIFI Smart Home Technology, Black

• 885 sq. in. cooking surface area
• Advanced WiFi capabilities so you can manage all aspects of your cook from your phone
• Also available on BBQGuys

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The critique I have heard from those who are not huge fans of Traeger is that they haven’t kept up with the times.  Over the 2010s, some say that they got complacent with their brand positioning and failed to innovate and truly make a better product each year.

The Traeger Ironwood Series is the answer to that criticism.  It’s a bona fide premium pellet grill that undeniably gets the job done, no matter whether you are a believer or a doubter.

Most notably, the Ironwood series of grills all have built in WiFi capabilities and a ton of cooking space.  You can manage all aspects of your cook from the convenience of your phone, not limited to monitoring your grill’s ambient temperature and your food’s internal temperature via probe thermometer connectivity.

The downside of this grill is that it is not in the bargain bin.  It costs a decent amount of coin, but if you are looking for a long term investment that will perform spectacularly, this grill is our favorite out of any on this list.

Traeger Grills Pro Series 575 Pellet Grill

Traeger Pro Series 575 WiFi Pellet Grill

• 572 sq. in. of cooking surface area & 18 lb hopper capacity
• 180-500ºF temperature range
• WiFi capabilities allow you to manage your cook from your phone

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I mean, how does one not fall in love with this grill?  The Traeger Pro Series is Traeger’s flagship series and the 575 specifically has been a best selling pellet grill on the market for years.

Traeger markets this grill as the ultimate way to achieve wood fired taste, and they’re not wrong.  As the pitmaster, you have access to a digital pro controller and precise, consistent temperatures.  All of this makes life incredibly easy when you are low and slow cooking your BBQ.

Powerful steel construction and a durable powder coat finish means you won’t have to worry about how long your grill will last.  It’s built to be a staple on your patio or outdoor kitchen for years to come.

This grill is also extremely versatile.  Due to the level of precision you have with temperature control, you can roast, smoke, grill, braise, bake, and BBQ food all on this single unit.

On top of all of that, the TFB57GZEO Pro Series 575 features 575 square inches of cooking space.  That’s more than enough space for 30 burgers, 6 chickens, or 5 racks of ribs.

Traeger Tailgater

Traeger Tailgater 20 Portable Pellet Grill

• Folding wheeled legs for easy transport
• 300 sq. in. cooking surface area
• 180-450ºF temperature range

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What I love most about the Traeger Tailgater is that it packs a punch despite being a little smaller in size than many of the other grills on this list.

At 49″ L x 42″ W x 22″, the profile is small enough that you can fit it into any space on your patio or balcony.  With that size comes 300 square inches of cooking space, which is more than enough to cover the needs of any family or small gathering of friends.  In fact, that’s enough space to fit 12 burgers, 3 whole chickens, or 3 racks of ribs simultaneously.

Using the grill is as simple as turning a dial.  From there, you can control temperature and maintain steady heat to handle all of your grilling, smoking, and BBQing duties.

Traeger Grills Pro Series 22

Traeger Pro 34 Pellet Grill

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If you’re looking for similar horsepower but maybe a little bit smaller of a unit, the Traeger Pro Series 22 Pellet Grill is also a fan favorite.

Similar to the Pro Series 34, this grill has the ability to roast, smoke, grill, braise, bake, and BBQ food all in one place.  There’s also the quality that you’d expect from a Traeger grill.  It’s well made with sturdy materials and has an elite temperature control system built in.

At 49″ L x 41″ W x 27″ H, it’s a very manageable size and has a smaller profile than the Pro Series 34.  Despite the smaller size, it still has 572 square inches of primary cooking.  That’s enough space to fit 24 burgers, 4 chickens, or 5 racks of ribs on the primary cooking area.

Traeger Ranger Portable Pellet Grill

Traeger Grills Ranger Portable Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker, Black Small

• Temperature range from 180-450ºF
• 8 pound wood pellet hopper
• 164 sq. in. cooking surface area

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If you want to go even more portable, the Traeger Ranger Portable Pellet Grill can get the job done on just about all of your grilling needs.

It’s important to note here that this unit is an electric grill made by Traeger that plugs into any standard 110v outlet.  There is however a hopper for wood pellets, so you can still add that smoky flavor you’d want or expect from a pellet grill.

That being said, it is a heavy duty grill considering the size, and can handle lots of different types of foods.  The 173 square inches of grilling area is enough space to handle up to 8 burgers at once.

All in all, it’s a great way to make delicious food in an on the go setting!

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Traeger Flatrock Flat Top Grill

Traeger’s Flatrock model immediately caught my attention as an intriguing new take on a pellet grill. This innovative design incorporates a flat top griddle surface in addition to the traditional smoking chamber. That spacious 430 square inch griddle opens up options to sear, sauté, grill burgers, and more all on one machine.

I like that they built the griddle from porcelain coated cast iron for excellent heat retention. The two dedicated burners allow you to run the griddle and main chamber at different temperatures for simultaneous cooking. And with 680 square inches in the main chamber, capacity won’t be an issue.

Features like the integrated grease management system, quick clean coating on the griddle, and included cutting board tell me Traeger put thought into the design. And with WiFIRE technology for app control, this grill aims to be user friendly. For those seeking flexibility beyond basic smoking, the Traeger Flatrock flat top pellet grill seems like a compelling choice to become the hub of your outdoor cooking.

Recteq – Individual Grill Reviews

Recteq Grills RT-590 Wood Pellet Grill

RecTeq RT-590 | Ultimate Blend Pellet Bundle

• 592 sq. in. of cooking surface area
• 4 year warranty
• WiFi connectivity allows you to control your cook remotely

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The Rec Tec Grills RT-590 Pellet Grill is simply a slightly more compact version of the RT-590.  It comes with a premium grill cover included and 200 pounds of pellets ready to put to use!

Rec Tec’s signature WiFi technology is included in this grill, so you can light up and monitor from anywhere within signal of your grill from the convenience of your phone.  The temperature remains precise and consistent with a RT-590, which is a crucial factor in the equation of grilling delicious food.

The RT-590 has a unique octagon-shaped cooking chamber made of stainless steel.  The design sets it apart from other grills on the market while providing incredible amounts of durability.

All of this is backed up by a 4 year manufacturer’s warranty.  It’s hard to argue with that!

Recteq Grills RT-700 Wood Pellet Grill

RecTeq RT-700 | Ultimate Blend Pellet Bundle

• 702 sq. in. cooking surface area
• 6 year warranty
• 180-500ºF temperature range

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(Full Rec Tec 700 review right here)

With the Rec Tec RT-700 Wood Pellet Grill, precision is the name of the game.  The cooking chamber is made entirely of stainless steel, so you don’t have to worry about peeling paint or inferior materials falling apart.

This grill also features Rec Tec’s WiFi technology, so you can manage and monitor your grill from afar.  It’s something that really comes in handy if you are BBQing or smoking something that’s an all day affair.  Instead of constantly having to go outside and check the temperature, you can see the grill and internal food temperature right from your app.

You can also set your grill to 5-degree increments, offering maximum precision and control when you’re lighting up the fire.  It really is incredible how far technology has come in the grilling space, and the Rec Tec RT-700 is a prime showcase.

The RT-700 comes with a grill cover and a 6 year warranty included, so while the price is somewhat expensive, you can buy with the confidence that this grill will last you a lifetime.

Recteq Grills RT-1250 Portable Wood Pellet Grill

recteq RT-2500 BFG Wood Pellet Smoker Grill | Wi-Fi-Enabled, Electric Pellet Grill | 2500 Square Inches of Cook Space

• Temperature range of 180-700ºF+
• 1,250 sq. in. of cooking surface area
• 6 year warranty & WiFi capable

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The Rec Tec RT-1250 is an absolute hoss of a grill, there’s no other way to put it.

At 1,250 square inches of grilling area, you have plenty of space to smoke multiple types of meat at once for your BBQ without worrying about space.

The hopper has a 40-pound pellet capacity, and the impressive temperature range goes anywhere from 200 to 700ºF – so you can truly do it all from grilling to BBQing on this grill.

You can expect all the other great features that come standard on ReqTeq’s on this one – WiFi capabilities and easy clean up systems are all there.

It’s also backed by a 6-year warranty, so you are covered in the unlikely event that there are some defects in your unit.

Recteq RT-2500 BFG Wood Pellet Smoker Grill | Wi-Fi-Enabled, Electric Pellet Grill

The Rec Tec RT-2500 BFG is a high-end wood pellet grill perfect for the serious backyard griller. With 2,500 total square inches of cooking space spread over two stainless steel grilling racks, this smoker has ample room to handle large cookouts and parties with ease. I’m impressed by the 60 pound pellet hopper capacity, which means you can smoke low and slow for hours without having to stop and refill.

One of the standout features is the built-in WiFi connectivity and app control. You can precisely set and adjust temperatures from anywhere using your smartphone. This kind of technology takes the guesswork out of temperature management. The double-insulated stainless steel construction also ensures efficient heat retention for consistent smoking.

Little touches like the automatic pellet clean-out system, bullhorn handles, and PID controller demonstrate this is a well-designed, high-quality pellet grill meant to last. And with a 7 year warranty on all parts, Recteq clearly stands behind their product. If you’re looking for a showpiece, high-tech wood pellet smoker that can handle serious smoking and grilling needs, the RT-2500 BFG looks like an excellent option worth the investment.

Recteq RT-B380X Bullseye Deluxe Wood Pellet Smoker Grill

The Recteq RT-B380X Bullseye pellet smoker caught my attention right away with its eye-catching red and black exterior. What makes this 380-square-inch smoker stand out is that it combines versatile grilling capabilities along with the option to smoke low and slow. The included foldable front shelf provides handy prep space that others lack.

I appreciate that Recteq equips the Bullseye with its smart PID technology and Wi-Fi control through an app. You can precisely dial in temperatures from 180 to 500 degrees Fahrenheit. This level of precision control paired with a stainless steel build should allow for consistent, reliable cooking performance.

Little advantages like the stainless steel bullhorn handle and silicone lid help showcase the thoughtfulness of the design. And backed by a 6 year warranty, it’s clear this mid-sized smoker is engineered to last, not just look pretty. For those seeking more than a basic pellet grill, the Recteq RT-B380X seems to offer upscale construction and handy functionality that can elevate your BBQ game.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Do Traeger Grills Ever Go on Sale?

Traeger grills rarely go on sale. Their promotions typically cover add-on accessories or the offering of free pellets once you have made your purchase. However, the grills tend to retail at a discounted price twice a year; black Friday and May/June as Father’s day and Memorial Day approaches.

If you are on the lookout for a new, hardy grill, you should check Traeger out during these times, as you discover that some of their high-end models retail at a lower price.

Although Traeger grills rarely go on sale, particularly the high-end models, the brand does tend to offer occasional discounts that shoppers can benefit from when using a discount code.

To keep up with any current discounts, promotions, and sales, it is worth visiting the Traeger website as all of the relevant information will be detailed there.

Is Traeger Made in China?

Whilst Traeger grills were originally manufactured in Oregon and produced in the USA, they are now manufactured in China.

In 2006 the family sold the company and in the same year, the patent that Traeger had on the design of their grill ran out meaning that competitors could now introduce their models to the market that shared similar features.

Although the grills were still made in Oregon up until 2010, it was decided that the company would be moved to China. This move was pursued to ensure that the company could continue creating high-quality products that they were renowned for, retailing at reasonable prices which their customers would be willing to pay.

This is a step that is taken by many companies that are looking to reduce their manufacturing costs.

Is Rec-Tec Worth the Money?

Rec-Tec is a manufacturer of a well-known range of grills. Upon initial inspection, you may be deterred by the seemingly high prices in which these models retail, however, many would suggest that this is a worthy expense and one that you won’t be left regretting.

The brand is recognized for creating grills that feature high-quality components that are heavy-duty and durable. They can also hold temperature effectively and are praised for their versatility and useability.

If this wasn’t impressive enough, they also have variable temperature controls so you can alter the intensity of heat according to the food that you are cooking.

The majority can also connect to an app on your phone so you can control it without having to be right next to it. A great thing about Rec-Tec grills is that they cater to a range of individuals. Whether you are a regular griller or using one for the first time, you are bound to find one that caters to your needs.

When it comes to grilling food at higher temperatures, some of the Rec-Tec grills could benefit from slight improvements.

Final Verdict and Wrap Up

In case you couldn’t tell from the content in this post, choosing a winner between Rec Tec vs Traeger is no easy task.

What makes the decision so difficult is that each brand is extremely competitive with one another in every single important aspect of their grills.  That’s really what you should expect out of two of the best pellet grill brands though.

All of that being said, from an overall brand comparison we give the nod to Rec Tec.  While some think they are the newer kids on the block, they are just a little ahead of the curve when it comes to technology and value add features.  When it comes to the actual performance of the grills and quality of the units, it’s extremely close though.

At the end of the day, the best grill for you might not be the best grill for the next person.  Rec Tec is a fantastic brand, and they make some spectacular grills.  Same goes for Traeger.  If you see a Traeger you want to buy, go for it – you won’t be disappointed.

Looking for more grill reviews and brand comparisons?  Check out our article on Pit Boss vs Traeger next, or our comparison of Rec Tec vs Camp Chef here.

Which grill did you end up going with between the two brands?  Let us know in the comments section below!

The post Rec Tec vs Traeger Pellet Grills – Complete Brand Comparison appeared first on Own The Grill.

Cooking is like love. It should be entered into with abandon, or not at all – Harriet Van Horne 

She may have found fame as a newspaper columnist, but Harriet Van Horne knew a thing or two about cooking as well.

It becomes a consuming hobby, it’s all that you’ll think about and all that you want to think about. And do you know what the greatest cooking secret of all is?

What the one aspect of it that has encouraged generation after generation of amateur cooks to follow its alluring rhythm from the cradle to the grave is and the hidden truth that no chef wants to tell any outsider about is?

It’s that cooking outside is far more addictive and pleasurable than cooking inside.

But if you’re going to devote your life to the craft of cooking outside, most commonly in the form of grilling, you’ll need the right gas grill to work with.

A good grill is the brush, palate, and canvas that you use to create your masterpieces, and while certain quarters of the grilling community insist that wood and charcoal are the best way to grill, we’ve always found that gas is more efficient, it also trumps its rivals in the flavor stakes.

That’s why we compiled a list of the best three burner gas grills so that you can travel down the same path to grilling perfection as we are, and experience the cornucopia of flavors that three burners will help you to achieve when grilling.

It’s time to follow your heart and start grilling with gas…

Best 3 Burner Gas Grills

Weber GENESIS E-325s Natural Gas Grill with Sear Burner

Weber’s every thought is about grilling. Grilling is their modus operandi and their reason to exist, and for nearly seventy years they’ve devoted their every waking moment to developing the world of grilling bit by bit.

They’ve come a long way since nineteen fifty-two when they took an old marine buoy and with a little MacGyver style know-how, transformed it into the world’s first kettle barbecue.  

The Genesis Genesis E-325S is the current pinnacle of Weber’s continuing grilling evolution and uses their patented GS4 High Performance System.

What is GS4? We’re glad you asked.

It combines Weber’s Infinity Ignition which guarantees that your grill will fire up every single time, perfectly placed burners to ensure an even distribution of heat, flavorizer bars to imbue your cook with an irresistible smokey flavor, and a grease management system that prevents any and all potential flare-ups.

Combine all of that with three burners capable of providing thirty-nine thousand BTUs (British Thermal Units) of heat to the five hundred and thirty square inches of the primary cooking area and an additional side burner which serves up twelve thousand BTUs to the one hundred and thirteen squares inches of space that make up the secondary cooking area, and you’ve got one of the most powerful weapons in the grilling world at your disposal.  

Some grills hang around your yard and just look pretty, while others, like Genesis II, can change your life.

Everything that you’ll ever need, or want, to know about grilling can be learned in front of this monstrously powerful and simple to master grill. 

Weber set out to change the world of grilling forever, and with Genesis II, they are well on the way to achieving ambition.

If you want to see the difference between Weber Spirit and Genesis grills, you can check out our resource on that topic right here.

Pros

• Webers Infinity Ignition comes with a ten-year warranty that’ll give you the peace of mind to grill your way through five hundred weekend cook-outs before you even need to start thinking about replacing it. 
• As well as the five hundred and thirty square inches of cooking space that the main grill has, the additional side burner also provides another one hundred and thirteen square inches.
• That’s an incredible amount of cooking room that’ll provide you with all of the grilling power that you’ll need to feed an entire neighborhood.
• And all that space comes with an incredible total of more than forty-eight thousand BTU’s of heat. It’s like having your own personal, fully controlled volcano on permanent stand-by.
• If all of that wasn’t enough, the Genesis II is also incredibly easy to set up and simple to use. It was made to give amateurs all of the advantages that the professionals have, and that’s exactly what it does.

Cons

• It’s a natural gas grill, not a propane unit so you’ll need to have a gas line in your yard or on your decking to run the Genesis II off. No gas, no grilling. 
• All of the incredible grilling power that Weber has packed into Genesis II comes at a not unexpected, eye-watering price.
• It’ll melt your pocketbook and break your bank balance, so you’re going to need to decide if that’s a price that you’re willing to pay for the Genesis.
• The hits just keep coming, as the Genesis II also has a weight problem, which will become your weight problem if you want to try and move it around your yard or deck.
• At one hundred and fifty pounds, it’s far from being a lightweight piece of kit, so once you’ve wheeled it into place, there’s a good chance that it’ll stay where it’s our forevermore. 

Blaze Prelude LBM 25-Inch 3-Burner Propane Gas Grill

Let me tell you, once you go Blaze, you’ll never see grilling the same way again. This beauty right here is your ticket to backyard barbecue bliss.

The Blaze Prelude packs some serious craftsmanship into its grills, built to handle even the most diehard pitmaster’s cooking demands. We’re talking commercial-grade stainless steel construction designed to withstand the elements year after year.

Under the hood, you’ve got three beastly burners cranking out 14,000 BTUs of searing heat each. That’s 42,000 BTUs total – more than enough to handle a full cookout spread with room to spare.

These durable stainless steel grates give you 558 square inches to work your grilling magic. I’m salivating just thinking about the steaks I’d throw down!

And check this out – Blaze equips this bad boy with push-button flame ignition. I’m talkin’ quick, reliable startups every single time you’re ready to grill.

Plus, you get two side tables, four smooth-rolling wheels, and a cart with storage for your tank, accessories, and more.

If you ask me, Blaze just about thought of everything to make you the MVP of your neighborhood cookouts. And they back it up with a lifetime warranty so you know it’s built to last.

So why keep struggling with that old clunker when you could fire up grilling greatness with a Blaze? I’m tellin’ ya, you won’t regret it.

Victory 3-Burner Propane Gas Grill With Infrared Side Burner

Well, let me tell ya, this Victory propane beauty is primed for grillin’ victory every time.

The whole thing is crafted from robust 18-gauge stainless – we’re talkin’ commercial-grade durability here, folks. You just don’t see that level of quality in many grills, but Victory pulls out all the stops.

Triple-thick flame tamers spread heat evenly across over 600 square inches of grilling space. Drippings sizzle away from the burners so you can kiss goodbye to crazy flare-ups. And the double-walled construction locks in heat for prime grilling temps.

But wait, there’s more! This baby boasts not just three 12,000 BTU burners, but a searing infrared side burner for that steakhouse char we all crave. Light ’em up with a simple battery-free ignition switch and watch ’em roar.

And check it out – Victory throws in prep space, built-in tool hooks, huge storage, locking wheels…they thought of everything! You even get a hood-mounted thermometer to monitor the heat.

Folks, if you’re looking to be king of the cookout, this is your grill. Victory’s got you covered with durability, power, and features galore. At this price, it just can’t be beat.

Saber Deluxe Stainless 500 32″ 3-Burner Infrared Propane Gas Grill With Side Burner

Forget everything you know about traditional gas grills. SABER’s patented infrared technology lets you achieve competition-style results with any home cookin’ skill level.

The secret’s in the unique grate design. It harnesses infrared heat while preventing nasty flare-ups and locking in moisture. I’m talkin’ unreal grill marks and juiciness you can sink your teeth into.

And get this – SABER grills use up to 30% less fuel for faster, more efficient cook times. More flavor in less time? Now that’s music to my ears.

This stainless steel beauty serves up 500 square inches of premium grilling real estate. Dial in precise temps across three zones while monitoring internal heat with lid-up gauges.

One side shelf houses a 10,000 BTU burner for sauces and sides. The other keeps your tools and brewskies handy. And with a fold-down warming rack, there’s room to grill for the whole neighborhood.

Assembly’s a breeze and clean-up’s just as simple with removable grease trays and porcelain-coated boxes. Plus, it’s all backed by a shiny stainless cart with storage galore.

So kiss lackluster cookouts goodbye and hi-ho SABER! This infrared grill puts serious BBQ bragging rights right at your fingertips. Your tastebuds better hold on tight!

Weber Spirit E-330 Freestanding Propane Gas Grill With Sear Burner & Side Burner

Serious grillers demand quality materials and engineering for optimal heat retention and distribution. Grills like the Weber Spirit E-330 deliver. Not only is this grill a true Weber classic it also offers so many amazing features like:

• Porcelain-enameled cast-iron cooking grates prevent sticking and provide excellent heat retention
• The side burner allows for preparing sauces and sides while grilling
• Porcelain-enameled Flavorizer bars minimize flare-ups and infuse flavor
• Stainless steel side tables offer generous prep space and tool hooks
• The searing station enables restaurant-quality sear marks

Premium materials like cast iron, porcelain-enameled components, and stainless steel construction ensure the Weber Spirit E-330 can withstand heavy use season after season. This grill is built to last.

Artisan Professional 32-Inch 3-Burner Freestanding Propane Gas Grill With Rotisserie

The Crème de la crème of 3 burner grills would have to be the Artisan Professional Series, proudly made in the USA using top-tier 304 stainless steel. This 32-inch ARTP-32C-LP freestanding propane gas grill offers a range of exceptional features designed to enhance your grilling experience.

One standout feature is the seamlessly welded double-walled hood, meticulously crafted to trap heat inside, ensuring your grill remains hot for consistent cooking perfection.

At the core of this grill are three stainless steel U-burners, each capable of delivering a reliable 20,000 BTUs of heat output. What sets this grill apart is the 1/2-inch thick ceramic briquettes that evenly distribute this high heat across the cooking surface, guaranteeing even cooking results every time.

Starting your grill is super easy, thanks to the amazing electronic ignition system. Plus, it’s shielded by heat-resistant encased wiring, adding an extra layer of reliability to your grilling sessions.

If you’re a fan of rotisserie cooking, our grill comes equipped with a heavy-duty rotisserie system featuring a 15,000 BTU ceramic rear infrared burner. This combination ensures your rotisserie creations are perfectly cooked and consistently heated.

Cleaning up is a breeze, thanks to the durable and easy-to-clean stainless steel cooking grates. Additionally, the dual-position warming rack provides extra workspace and conveniently lifts up and out of the way when not in use.

The control panel, tucked away for a sleek appearance, keeps the chrome knobs and switches out of sight. Our unique Artisan air curtain chimney design ensures the controls stay cool to the touch, even with the lid closed, enhancing your overall grilling experience.

For those twilight grilling sessions, our Professional grills feature an interior halogen work light with a removable lens, improving visibility and making maintenance hassle-free.

The 304 stainless steel cart combines functionality with style, featuring two side shelves, spacious dual access door storage, and locking caster wheels for easy mobility.

Best 3-Burner Gas Grill – Buyer’s Guide

Which Three Burner Gas Grill Is Right For Me?

As three-burner gas grills are all designed to do roughly the same thing, the only things that separates one grill from another are the additional features and functionality they possess and their price.

And unfortunately, the latter dictates the former. If you want an all-singing and all-dancing grill, it’s going to cost a lot more than a basic three burner grill will.

The most important thing to remember when choosing your grill though is your budget, Set it, and remain firm and whatever you do, don’t exceed the limit that you’ve set for yourself as there’s a grill on our list that’ll fit your budget. 

That said if your budget isn’t an issue, and you’re looking for us to point you in the right three burner direction, we’d have to admit that the best grill on our list is the monumentally expensive Weber which will do just about everything except sit up and beg.

But if your budget is limited, we’d recommend that you grill the Char way, and go with either the Broil or Griller three burners, as they’re more than capable of raising the grilling roof and helping you to become a certified grilling master. 

What Is A 3-Burner Gas Grill?

A three-burner gas grill is an oven that has been purpose-designed to cook outdoors and is almost always best utilized on either a patio or decking or in a yard.

Using either propane or natural gas as its fuel source, these grills use three separate, individually controlled burners to deliver the heat that it makes to the grill’s cooking surface.

What are the advantages of using a 3-burner grill? 

There are several advantages to using a 3-burner grill:

• Versatility: You can create different heat zones on the cooking surface, allowing you to cook a variety of foods at different temperatures simultaneously.
• Even Heating: Three burners distribute heat more evenly across the cooking area, reducing hotspots and ensuring uniform cooking.
• Capacity: A 3-burner grill typically offers a larger cooking area, making it suitable for cooking for larger groups or families.
• Control: You have better control over the cooking temperature, which is crucial for grilling different types of food.

How do I ignite the burners on a 3-burner grill?

To ignite the burners on a 3-burner grill, follow these steps:

1. Open the grill lid.
2. Turn the gas supply valve on the propane tank or natural gas line to the “On” position.
3. Locate the ignition system (usually a button or knob labeled “Ignite” or “Push to Start”).
4. Press the ignition button or turn the knob to the “Ignite” position while simultaneously turning one or more burner control knobs to the desired temperature setting.
5. The burner(s) should ignite. If they don’t, repeat the process, ensuring the gas supply is on and that the ignition system is working correctly.

Can I use only one burner on a 3-burner grill if I don’t need all three?

Yes, you can use just one or two burners on a 3-burner grill if you don’t need the entire cooking area or want different temperature zones. This flexibility allows you to conserve fuel and cook smaller meals more efficiently.

How do I maintain and clean a 3-burner grill?

Regular maintenance and cleaning are essential for the longevity of your 3-burner grill:

• Clean the grates: After each use, scrub the cooking grates with a grill brush to remove food residue and prevent sticking.
• Empty the grease tray: Dispose of accumulated grease and debris in the grease tray to prevent flare-ups and fire hazards.
• Check for leaks: Periodically inspect the gas connections and hoses for leaks using a soapy water solution.
• Clean the burners: Remove the burners and clean them if they become clogged or have uneven flames.
• Store properly: Cover your grill when not in use and store it in a dry, sheltered area to protect it from the elements.

The post Best 3 Burner Gas Grill – Our Top Choices and Buyer’s Guide appeared first on Own The Grill.

Option 1: Recycle Your BBQ Grill

If your BBQ grill is still in good working condition, you may be able to recycle it. Many metal recycling facilities will accept BBQ grills as long as they are free of any debris or food waste. Before recycling your grill, it’s essential to properly prepare it for disposal. Start by removing any propane tanks and disposing of them separately. You can also remove the burners and grate and recycle them separately if they are made of metal.

Next, give your grill a good cleaning to remove any food debris or grease that might be stuck to it. A mixture of water and vinegar can be effective at cutting through grease and grime. You can also use a grill brush to scrub the interior and exterior of the grill to remove any stuck-on bits of food. Be sure to also clean the drip pan and remove any ashes that might be inside the grill.

Once your grill is clean and free of any debris, you can recycle it. You can check with your local solid waste management facility or recycling center to see if they have any specific guidelines for recycling BBQ grills. Some facilities might require you to disassemble the grill before recycling it, so be sure to check with them before dropping it off.

Recycling your BBQ grill not only helps to protect the environment by reducing the amount of waste that ends up in landfills, but it also conserves natural resources. The steel and other metals used in BBQ grills can be recycled and used to make new products, reducing the need to extract and process raw materials.

Option 2: Donate Your BBQ Grill

If your BBQ grill is still in good condition, but you no longer have a use for it, you may want to consider donating it. Many organizations, such as schools, community centers, and youth organizations, are always in need of donations to help fund their programs and activities. You can also try listing your BBQ grill on a platform like Freecycle, where people in your community can request items that they need.

Before donating your grill, be sure to give it a thorough cleaning to remove any food debris or grease. This will make it more appealing to the recipient and ensure that it is in good working condition. You should also check the grill for any damages or issues that might need to be repaired before donating it. Donating your grill is a great way to give it a second life and help out a worthy cause.

Option 3: Properly Dispose of Your BBQ Grill

If your BBQ grill is no longer in good working condition, you’ll need to properly dispose of it. The best way to do this is to bring it to a hazardous waste disposal facility. These facilities are equipped to handle the safe disposal of items that could potentially harm the environment or pose a risk to public health.

Before disposing of your grill, be sure to remove any propane tanks and dispose of them separately. You should also remove the burners and grate if they are made of metal and recycle them separately. If your grill is made of metal, you can also try recycling the body of the grill. However, if it is made of other materials such as plastic or ceramic, it will need to be disposed of as hazardous waste.

You can find a hazardous waste disposal facility near you by contacting your local solid waste management facility or visiting the Earth911 website. Be sure to follow the guidelines set by the facility for proper disposal of your BBQ grill.

Option 4: Properly Dispose of Your BBQ Grill

This isn’t an option for everybody, but some residential and multifamily communities have a “big trash” day, once a month or so, where the trash collector will accommodate large trash.  This can be a great time to leave your BBQ grill at the curb for disposal.

If you’re going this route, please be sure to consider your service workers and give the grill a reasonable clean before you send it off!

Final Thoughts

How to dispose of a grill doesn’t have to be difficult. By recycling, donating, or properly disposing of it, you can help protect the environment and keep your community safe. Remember to always follow the guidelines set by your local solid waste management facility or recycling center to ensure that you’re disposing of your old BBQ grill responsibly.

The post How To Dispose of a Grill appeared first on Own The Grill.

For those unfamiliar, “yakitori” translates to grilled chicken in Japanese.  Yakitori is a traditional Japanese dish that’s skewered meat prepared on a specialized grill and served like a kabob. It’s considered one of the original flat top griddles.

In the United States, yakitori has become synonymous with lots of types of skewered meats, so by acquiring a yakitori grill you aren’t committing to only making grilled chicken skewers!

In this article, we’ll go over our top picks for the best yakitori grill on the market today.  From there, we’ll touch on a few things to look out for during your search.  Then, we’ll go over some of the attributes that make the best yakitori grill.

Best Yakitori Grill Reviews

The Bincho Yakitori Tabletop Japanese Style Grill

The Bincho Grill Yakitori Tabletop Japanese Style Charcoal Grill

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Our top choice for yakitori style grilling is The Bincho Grill’s line of Yakitori Tabletop Charcoal grills.  They offer their flagship product in both a 36″ and a 24″ wide configuration so you can choose a size that fits your table.

The cooker is sleek with a modern look and stainless steel construction.  Two handles on each side of the unit make it incredibly easy to transport around.  At only 34 pounds, you can easily take yakitori style grilling on the go.

The Bincho Grill is well insulated and designed to easily collect ash to make clean up as easy as possible.  Two adjustable dampers make controlling your airflow simple, which in turn makes maintaining steady heat quite easily.

The downside of this grill is that it does not come with grates – so you need to provide your own.  Even though hibachi style grates are widely available, this adds a tiny bit of hassle to the process.

Shichirin Hida Konro

Noto Dia Table-Top Charcoal Grill, Shichirin Hida Konro

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If you’re looking for elegance and artistry, the Shichirin Hida Konro Tabletop Charcoal Grill is made of Paulownia wood and features a beautiful design on the wooden box.

What’s especially rare about this yakitori grill is that it’s fueled by charcoal yet tabletop safe.  The key is to use high quality charcoal, but more on that later.

The mesh grill grate is iron with zinc plating and features about 65 square inches of cooking area, perfect for authentic style yakitori.  It’s also offered in smaller sizes depending on what your needs are.

One other thing to consider with this grill is that none of the parts are dishwasher safe, so plan on washing by hand.

Fire Sense Large Yakatori Charcoal Grill

Fire Sense Large Yakatori Charcoal Grill

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The Fire Sense Large Yakatori charcoal grill differentiates itself by utilizing ceramic clay as the main source of body construction material.

If you’re a fan of kamado grills, you already know that ceramics have been used to construct cooking vessels in Eastern cultures as far back as 3000 years.  You’d also know that ceramic is an excellent insulator, so ceramic made grills do a fantastic job of retaining and evenly distributing heat.

On top of all of that, you get built in adjustable vents to help with temperature control.  Also, there are 170 square inches of cooking area to work with – which is plenty to even throw on a few sausages or hamburgers if you want to.

It also comes backed by a 1-year warranty, which is always a great feature to any grill purchase.

Iwatani Cassette Grill

Iwatani Cassette Feu Butane VA-30 Camp Stove

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The Iwatini Cassette is a bona fide made in japan yakitori grill.  It makes our list because its high quality, portability, and authenticity.

It weighs only about 5 pounds, so it’s super easy to take on the go or to move around the kitchen if you need to.  It’s fueled by Iwatani designed butane packs that will burn long and hot.

Most of the main components like the body, grill net, skewer trays, and water tray are all made of stainless steel for maximum performance and durability.

One of our favorite things about this product is the built in safety features.  An electric ignition system and pressure sensitive safety device ensure that you won’t be dealing with any major safety issues while you grill.

Outsunny Stainless Steel Portable Folding Charcoal BBQ Grill

Outsunny Portable Folding Charcoal BBQ Grill

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The Outsunny  Stainless Steel Portable Folding Charcoal Grill is a step up from the other grills so far on this list in terms of size.  The cooking area is 29″ x 13″ for a grand total cooking area of 377 square inches.  That’s a great size if you’re cooking yakitori for a large group of family or friends.

Double air vents on either end of the grill allow for easy temperature adjustment and control while you cook.  Additionally, it’s designed with portable and lightweight legs for easy transport and storage.

This grill is ideal for the outdoors.  Whether that’s your patio or a campsite is up to you!  The stainless steel material is durable, quality, and built to last.

Kinka BBQ Diatomite Charcoal Grill Barbecue Hibachi Stove

Kinka BBQ Diatomite Charcoal Hibachi/Yakitori Grill

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Last but not least on our best yakitori grill list is the Kinka BBQ Diatomite Hibachi Stove.

Technically speaking, it’s a stove and not a grill and is designed for authentic yakitori and hibachi.  One great safety feature is that none of the materials on the outside of the stove will ever get hot enough to burn.  So it’s safe to touch which is great if you have kids who might wonder and touch the stove while it’s in use.

ISUMER Portable Charcoal BBQ

Isumer Portable Charcoal BBQ

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One of the most cost efficient yakitori grills is the ISUMER Charcoal Grill – it’s affordable and does an excellent job cooking yakitori.

A detachable leg design and only 4 pounds of weight make it ideal for transport and storage.  It’s a perfect choice for at home grilling, or for use when camping, backpacking, or picnicking.  The leg’s height can also able to be adjusted to your preference while you cook.

The grilling surface area is approximately 175 square inches, which is a ton of space for a portable grill.  You can cook enough yakitori for a lot of people at once with that much space.

The entire body and grates are constructed of polished stainless steel that is durable and aesthetically very clean to look at.

What is a Yakitori Grill?

Compared to traditional types of grills, yakitori grills are much more compact and lightweight.  Many of them are actually designed for indoor use, unlike traditional charcoal or gas grills.  Typically the cooking grates are long and rectangular, which is an ideal design for grilling skewers on a tabletop.

Heat wise, expect most yakitori grills to operate best with temperatures in the 200-250°F range.

For the most part, you don’t really need accessories or extras when it comes to these grills.  One of the beautiful things about them is their simplicity.  All you need to cook delicious food is skewers, which are used to rotate and place your food while it cooks.

The narrow design helps with this – the edge of the skewer should hang over the edge of the grill.  That means you don’t have to ever put your heat over a flame or hot surface while you cook.

Which Kind of Charcoal Should I Use for Yakitori?

We mentioned earlier that it’s best to use a special type of charcoal for yakitori cooking, especially with tabletop grills that utilize charcoal.

The answer to the question is that Binchontan charcoal is the best type of charcoal for yakitori.  Binchontan lump charcoal burns extremely clean and a shockingly low amount of smoke, which makes it ideal not only for the indoors – it’s a healthier alternative to briquettes.

If you’ve got a larger, outdoor yakitori grill feel free to use briquettes or lump charcoal – but even then Binchontan charcoal is going to produce better results.

The only downside to Binchontan is that it can get pretty pricey, as does anything that is high quality.

What to Look For In the Best Yakitori Grill?

First and foremost for yakitori, your grill should be compact and rectangular.  You should be able to grill your meat while allowing the skewer ends to hang over the edge.  A rectangular shape also allows you to fit the maximum amount of skewers onto your grilling surface.

A grill that’s safe for indoor use is also a great quality for the best yakitori grill.  Traditionally, yakitori is prepared and served at the table, so it’s ideal to have a grill that can accommodate it.

On the other hand, if you need to cook outdoors or for a lot of people, it’s perfectly fine to look at a larger grill that’s ideal for camping and tailgating.

The other thing to pay attention to is heat retention and insulation.  Stainless steel is a fine material, but clay and ceramic are more authentic and do a better job of heat retention and distribution.

What If I Want to Cook Other Foods?

That’s perfectly fine!  While yakitori is traditionally skewered chicken, you should feel free to substitute lamb, beef, shrimp, or anything else that would normally go on a skewer.

You don’t even have to limit yourself to skewers!  After all the best yakitori grill is a perfectly capable cooking vessel, so anything that would normally go on a charcoal grill can likely get done on a yakitori, provided there’s enough room.

Hamburgers, hot dogs, fish, and sausages are great foods that you could also cook, to name a few.  It’s also perfectly conceivable to sear and cook steak if you have one of the bigger outdoor yakitori grills.

Which Skewers Should I Use for Yakitori?

We are fans of either metal or bamboo skewers.  Some people use plastic but we find that the quality of plastic skewers is consistently low.  Plus, you can typically find very cheap metal or bamboo ones at your local grocery store or online.

The only consideration beyond the material is length.  You want to make sure your skewers are long enough so that they have material that hangs off of the grill so that you can rotate your food as it cooks.

How Do You Make Yakitori?

There is no one dead set way to make it, but most recipes broadly flavor the chicken with a sweet soy sauce or basic seasonings like salt and pepper.

Additionally, you can choose which parts of the chicken you want to cook.  You’re not limited and can choose between the thighs, liver, breast, and wings.

Here’s a link to one of our favorite yakitori recipes.  It’s a recipe that uses chicken thigh pieces brushed with a sauce comprised of soy sauce, mirin, kecap manis, sugar, ginger, sriracha, and garlic.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can You Use a Yakitori Grill Inside?

No, we are sorry to inform you that you should not use a yakitori grill inside. Don’t be disheartened by this, though, as it is for your safety! Yakitori grills are not safe for use indoors and can actually be very dangerous.

A yakitori grill has an open fire feature on it, so of course, this means flames can flow freely. This is very dangerous, and can easily set alight your home. It should only be used on a fireproof surface, meaning your kitchen counters, tables, carpets, and tatamis will not be safe!

Not only are Yakitori grills a fire hazard, but they also use charcoal which can pose a health risk if inhaled. They can also cause carbon monoxide poisoning if not used in a ventilated area. As such, using your yakitori in a well-ventilated outdoor spot is by far the safest option.

What Kind of Charcoal Do You Use for Yakitori?

Typically, the charcoal that is used for yakitori is white charcoal. This is also known as binchō-tan which literally translates to white charcoal! This charcoal is usually made from oak which is a type of hardwood.

Typically, since yakitori grills are Japanese, Japanese oak will be used for this charcoal. The reason why hardwoods like oak are used for white charcoal is that they can burn at a high temperature for a long period of time.

In general, you can expect white charcoal from oak trees to burn for around 4 to 5 hours, and it can handle temperatures as high as 1600 degrees Fahrenheit (this is 871 degrees Celsius for our metric folk).

Of course, this charcoal is what has been used traditionally. Nowadays, especially in the Western world, yakitoris can be used with lump charcoal and briquette. However, you will not get the same results when using these two types of charcoal and it will not taste as authentic.

Is Yakitori Only Chicken?

The translation of yakitori is literally a grilled bird. This has meant that many people assume that yakitori is only used in reference to grilled chicken. However, in Japan, yakitori restaurants also serve pork yakitori.

It is more common to find chicken being served when you eat yakitori, and certainly, this is what is served from street food vendors. However, you can also find pork, especially pork ribs being served in the same style.

You may find chicken breast pieces, chicken thighs, chicken livers, and even chicken hearts being served in this skewered style. Yakitori, whether that be chicken or pork, is seasoned with tare sauce which is made from sake, mirin, soy sauce, and sugar.

What is the Difference Between Robatayaki and Yakitori?

There is some confusion when it comes to robatayaki and yakitori, as both of them are grills! However, the main difference is the food that is served from these grills.

Typically, yakitori serves chicken. Although, as you will know from the previous section, it can also serve pork ribs.

Robatayaki, on the other hand, serves a far wider variety of food. From a robatayaki grill, you can expect to find the likes of grilled seafood, grilled vegetables, and other meats.

Robata is actually a direct reference to the style of cooking used by Japanese fishermen from the Northern areas of the country who would cook together around a large hearth.

This concept became very popular throughout the whole of Japan, with restaurants opening to emulate this tradition. Food (usually seafood and meat) would be cooked on one big hearth and served to guests who are all seated around the hearth.

Wrap Up

If you’ve ever had yakitori out at a restaurant or at home before, you know how delicious it is.  When properly made it’s not only delicious, it’s an experience you get to share with those around you.

Hopefully, this best yakitori grill round up helps you to find the perfect grill so that you can start to make those memories at home or out on the campsite.

Which one did you end up with?  We’d love to hear about it in the comments section below, along with any other recommendations you might have!

The post Best Yakitori Grills – Our Top Picks and Buyer’s Guide appeared first on Own The Grill.

However, in recent years some clever manufacturers in the outdoor lifestyle space had the bright idea of combining the two.  A few of these manufacturers executed the fire pit grill to perfection – and they’re epic centerpieces that just have a special way of bringing people together.

We’ve created this list of the best cooking fire pit (or fire pit grill combos) to help get you started with your search!  We’ll highlight some of our favorite options on the market and also highlight some of the features you should consider when deciding which pit is best for you.

Best Cooking Fire Pits

Arteflame 40″ Contemporary Grill

Arteflame Classic 40" Grill w/ Tall Round Base

• Uses both wood and / or charcoal
• Removable cooktop is laser cut from 1/2" steel
• Optional center grill grate
• Can be used as a fire bowl with, or without the cooktop
• Cooktop "lift and remove" tool included
• Virtually maintenance-free: all residue can be scraped into the fire
• Fire bowl is spun from a single piece of corten steel without seams or welds
• After cooktop cools, wipe clean with a cloth or paper towel and food safe oil
• Can be left outside year-round; base develops a beautiful, maintenance free patina over time
• Includes seasoning puck for seasoning of cooktop
• Designed and Made in the USA using US steel
• DIMENSIONS: 40" Wide x 18" High, 290lbs. (102cm x 46cm, 132Kg)
• Base diameter is 21"
• Arteflame Grills are all steel making the grills quite heavy, shipping weights can be over 500lbs!

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When it comes to all around performance, durability, and aesthetics – the Arteflame Contemporary Fire Pit Grill is hard to beat.  That’s why gets our pick as the best cooking fire pit currently on the market.

Arteflame grills almost look like they’re pieces of art – and they’re designed to draw people in to gather and enjoy excellent food.  The cooker comes in a few different configurations; the flagship grill comes with a tabletop height cabinet, but you can also opt for a shorter base cabinet or a built-in configuration.

The fire bowl (where your charcoal or wood fire is built) is made of corten steel, which is a special type of corrosion resistant metal.  The round cooking surface is made of high quality 1/2″ carbon steel, which is considered to be a superior cooking surface to cast iron, generally speaking.

The diameter of the cooking surface is 40″, and is suited to cook everything from the largest ribeye steaks to veggies and sides.  The inside of the ring (closest to the fire) reaches 500ºF and above to get that perfect sear, while the outside of the cooktop usually reaches 250ºF – which is ideal for peppers, veggies, or just to keep food warm before serving.  Of course, you can make the cooktop temperature hotter or cooler than this by adjusting the size of your fire.

Arteflame also knocks it out of the park in the accessories department – there are more than a handful of add-ons to choose from to elevate your cooking experience:

• Center grill grate (for cooking directly over your fire)
• Grill grate riser (lifts center grill grate 9″ above the cooking surface)
• Food saver (prevents food from falling into the centerfire)
• Rotisserie kit
• Pizza oven
• Various clean up accessories

The downside to the Arteflame is the price point – it’s on the more expensive side of the spectrum for sure.  However, if you have the coin to pick one up, you won’t be disappointed.

Check out our full Arteflame review here for more on this high-end brand!

Cast Master Bon 2000 Bonfire Pit

Cast Master Bon 2000 Bonfire Pit

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If you’re looking for a cheaper or more portable option, the Cast Master Bon 2000 Dual Purpose Bonefire Pit is an excellent choice.  At only 32 pounds and with a carrying case included, it’s easy to take with you on the go for a camping trip or tailgate before the game.

The unit is constructed of stainless steel and does an outstanding job of channeling heat to deliver a hot fire that you can gather around to keep warm or cook some burgers.  The Bon 2000 is actually designed to be a smokeless fire pit, which may be a positive or a negative depending on your preferences when it comes to cooking and enjoying fireside warmth.

However, you can load lump charcoal or briquettes into the charcoal grate and you’ll still get some smokey flavor.  You likely will not get much smoke flavor in this pit from traditional hardwoods like oak, hickory, etc.

A cooking grate is included that sits perfectly on top of the firepit where you can cook your food.  The grate has a 19″ diameter, which translates to about 283 square inches of cooking surface area to work with.  It’s enough space to comfortably fit 4 large burgers at once or potentially 6-8 smaller ones.

Breeo X Series Smokeless Fire Pit

Breeo X Series Smokeless Fire Pit

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The Breeo X Series Smokeless Fire Pit is another option that is primarily marketed as a smokeless fire pit, but can easily be converted into a cooking fire pit with a few extra attachments.

Namely, Breeo developed the Outpost Grill attachment – which is an adjustable height grate attachment that allows you to cook directly over your pit.  It comes with a carry bag and is completely adjustable, so you can use it over a campfire in addition to the smokeless pit.

The Breeo X Series comes in a few different sizes – there’s a 19″, 24″, and 30″ option.  For the 19″ version, the only way to convert it into a fire pit grill combo is via the Outpost attachment.

But for the 24″ and 30″ options, you can actually choose to add on a SearPlate rim, which gives you the ability to sear steaks, burgers, and more on the outer rim of the fire pit.  Functionally, the SearPlate works similarly to the way the Arteflame grill works – this is just a smaller and less expensive option.

Bali Outdoors Wood Fire Pit

Bali Outdoors Wood Fire Pit with Cooking Grid

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Our budget pick for the best fire pit grill goes to the Bali Outdoors Fire Pit – it’s one of the least expensive options on our list.  Even though it’s cheap, it provides a reasonable amount of performance in the cooking department.

The grill grate is elevated from the rest of the pit, but you can adjust the height by a few inches depending on how hot you need your grate to be.  Also, the grate swivels 360º – which comes in handy if you ever need to let a steak rest at a warm temperature after searing.

You’re afforded roughly 270 square inches of cooking surface area on the 18.7″ diameter grill grate, so it’s an ideal size to cook for 2-4 people.  Any more than that you’ll probably need to cook in multiple batches.

This fire pit only weighs 27 pounds, so its quite possible to take it with you on the go, but it doesn’t break down into a more compact size for travel.  Four legs fixed on a circular steel ring provide sturdy footing no matter where or on what surface you choose to place your pit on.

Best Cooking Fire Pit – What to Look For

When it comes to choosing the right fire pit grill combo, there are a few things to be aware of – especially if it’s your first time picking one up.  Here are a few of the top things we think you should consider when comparing products.

Cooking Surface Material & Style

On typical grills, the cooking grates are made of either stainless steel, enameled porcelain, or cast iron.  You’ll want to make sure that your cooking fire pit uses one of these materials in the construction of the grate.

The reason has to do with heat distribution and consistency – these materials are proven to create consistent heat zones, which becomes even more important when cooking over an open fire.  Furthermore, inferior metals won’t last nearly as long as stainless steel, enameled porcelain, or cast iron.

Also consider whether you want a traditional grill grate, a flat top grill, or both!  Some fire pit grills only have a grill grate over the centerfire.  Others have a flat top cooking surface around the outside of the fire pit.  A few have both of these cooking styles available on the same pit.

Cooking Surface Area

It’s important to consider how many people you plan to cook for in any given setting.  Many of the smaller, portable fire pits are only suitable for cooking for about 4 people, which would make things tough if you needed to grill burgers for a party of 12.  Obviously, if you hope to have your fire pit grill be the centerpiece of your back patio, you should opt for a bigger size that will accommodate the party size you’d like.

Cooking Grate Adjustability

No two fires are the same, so when it comes to cooking over a fire it’s ideal to have an adjustable grate.  The reason is so that you can easily set your food at an ideal distance from the flame so that it cooks exactly how you want it to.

It’s not that you can’t cook on a fire pit grill without an adjustable grate, you just have to be more precise and consistent with your fire building.

Portability

Some cooking fire pits are designed to be more or less permanent fixtures on your patio – and others are designed to be taken on the go.  The permanent options are typically better suited for those looking to create an outdoor kitchen or hang out area on their patio, whereas the portable options are ideal for things like camping trips and tailgates.

Ideally, a portable option should weigh less than 40 or so pounds and come with a carrying case so that it can easily be taken with you in your vehicle.

Price

Obviously, price is a consideration any time you are comparing one product to another.  Generally speaking, high end fire pit grill combos run in the range of $500 to $2,500, depending on the configuration and setup you choose.

On the other end, a budget friendly cooking fire pit runs in the range of $100 to $300.  Anything below $100 I would begin to have serious doubts about the quality of materials used to construct the pit – remember, if you plan to cook on these units you want the grate to be at least a certain baseline level of quality.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to all around fun and memory making, it’s hard to beat gathering around a fire, pulling up some fire pit chairs, and cooking up a delicious meal.  The best cooking fire pits do just that – draw people in and deliver outstanding quality food.

We hope this resource was helpful for you in comparing fire pit grill combos – at the end of the day, there are quite a few different options out there that cater to different experiences and goals.  Hopefully, some of our suggestions above helped to clear the air on these similarities and differences.

Which pit did you end up with?  Do you like it?  Or did we omit an excellent cooking fire pit from our list?  We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments section below.

The post Fire Pit Grill Combo for Cooking appeared first on Own The Grill.