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The best grills for 2024, top-rated and editor-tested
Get fired up with the best gas, charcoal, pellet and electric grills from Weber, Blackstone, Char-Broil and beyond.
Summer is finally upon us, which means we're deep into backyard barbecue season. And there's no better way to rally a crowd — not to mention rouse up an appetite — than with the best grills for 2024. These propane, electric, charcoal and pellet grills will help you take advantage of the warmer weather while perfecting all of your favorite recipes.
Weber Spirit II Liquid Propane Grill
Best propane gas grill
Traeger Grills Pro 780 Electric Wood Pellet Grill
Best pellet grill
Char-Broil Patio Bistro Tru-Infrared Electric Grill
Best electric grill
Weber Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill
Best charcoal grill
We gathered together a mix of top-rated and editor-favorite grills that are certain to help you achieve grillmaster status, whether you want to smoke a whole rack of ribs (we're lookin' at you, Traeger pellet grill) or simply cook up some burgers for dinner (the perfect propane grill makes it easy).
Table of contents:
A quick note before you dive in: Different fuel types require different setups and yield different flavors, so we’ve included expert tips on choosing the right grill for your skill level, outdoor space and personal preferences at the end of this list. Looking for other specialty cookers? Check out our guides to finding a handy air fryer and versatile multicooker, neither of which will take up much space in your kitchen.
The best grills for 2024
Dimensions: 48"D x 26"W x 57"H | Fuel type: Propane gas | Burners: Two | Wheels: Two
Weber's Spirit II propane gas grill is a compact, no-frills gas grill that gets the job done — and then some. Two stainless steel burners let you carve out hot and cold zones for more targeted results. There's a built-in lid thermometer for gauging temperatures, two wheels for added mobility and two side trays — one of them collapsible — for creating prep space. You'll need a 20-pound propane tank, but it's easy to set up (use the Weber app to access assembly instructions in 3D). For added peace of mind, it comes with a two-year warranty.
- Substantial grilling surface
- Foldable side table
- Only two burners
Dimensions: 27"D x 53"W x 49"H | Fuel type: Wood pellets | Burners: N/A | Wheels: Four
There's a lot of buzz surrounding Traeger pellet grills for good reason: These dynamos can tackle a lot of cooking functions including smoking, grilling and baking. This roomy model in particular is Amazon's "overall pick," with nearly 1,000 five-star ratings for its large capacity (you can cook up 40 burgers, eight chickens or seven racks of ribs) and durable alloy steel construction. The grill reaches up to 450°F and has an ultra-precise temperature controller that allows for 15-degree adjustments — so everything comes out juuuust right. Bonus: It's WiFi-enabled so you can tweak the temperature using the corresponding app even when your grates aren't in sight.
- Large cooking capacity
- Precision temperature control
- Heavy
- Pricey
Dimensions: 24.4"D x 25.2"W x 38.2"H | Fuel type: Electric | Burners: N/A | Wheels: Two
This small-but-mighty electric grill from Char-Broil comes in four colors and can turn a basic patio into a charming burger bistro — just plug in the cord and you’re good to go! It offers 320 square inches of cooking space (enough for 12 patties) and is designed with infrared technology that helps to evenly distribute heat while preventing flare-ups. According to fans of the grill (it has over 2,000 on Amazon alone), the porcelain-coated cooking grates also stand up to rust and other signs of wear.
- Lightweight
- Patio-friendly
- Comes in four colors
- Relatively small cooking capacity
- Requires electrical source
Dimensions: 22.5"D x 22.5"W x 27"H | Fuel type: Charcoal | Burners: N/A | Wheels: Two
For a reliable charcoal grill, it doesn’t get better than Weber’s Original Kettle, which is beloved by customers (over 6,000, and that's just on Amazon), Yahoo staffers and beyond. "It's the platonic ideal of a charcoal grill, with easy-to-clean grates and a large surface area for grilling lots of burgers and franks at once," says Senior Home Editor Jessica Dodell-Feder of the rolling classic, which currently comes in three colors. The Weber kettle grill also comes recommended by celebrity chefs: "I used to work at Food Network Magazine, and both Sunny Anderson and Michael Symon told me they used Weber charcoal grills at home," says Dodell-Feder. "If that's not a solid endorsement, I don't know what is!"
- Lightweight
- Portable
- Comes in three colors
- Relatively pricey
Factors to consider when choosing a grill
Dimensions: Larger grills tend to have larger surface areas and cooking capacities, ideal for bigger families and parties. Larger grills also tend to weigh more, making them less travel-friendly. When it comes to gas grills, having multiple burners can help with heat distribution. Additionally, wheeled grills offer more portability.
Fuel type: If you're planning to use your grill for regular, weeknight cooking, Jonathan Fox of Atlanta's Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q advises going for a gas grill that connects to a propane tank and can be ready to go in five to 10 minutes. If you dream of a grill that doubles as a smoker, consider a pellet grill that runs on wood pellets — or try a ceramic grill (like a Kamado Joe). Just know that it'll take 45 minutes to an hour to heat up, says Fox, which might not be ideal when cooking up a weeknight dinner. Charcoal grills fall somewhere in the middle for heat-up time and add that classic char flavor to veggies and meats.
Intended use: With so many options, you’ll want to zero in on a grill that’s practical for your space and cooking taste. "There are so many choices in grills today, it’s easy to get drawn in by some fancy feature that you’ll never need," says world barbecue champion Melissa Cookston, owner of Memphis BBQ Co. "Are you cooking mainly burgers, steaks and hot dogs, or do you want more versatility? Would you prefer gas or charcoal? Are you cooking just for the immediate family?"
Experience: Before you go out and buy the most expensive grill in the hardware store, get real about your skillset in the kitchen, er, backyard. "Are you a novice, hold-your-own or the next great meat influencer? These are some great questions to ask," says Fox.
Price: You don’t have to break the bank to make a great meal on the grill. But price will likely be a major factor as you shop. With that in mind, Fox says a higher price tag isn’t always better or necessary, but more expensive grills do tend to last longer.
How we evaluated
We spent hours researching grills, scouring thousands of customer reviews for some of the hottest (read: high-powered and top-rated) grills on the market. We also consulted grillmasters for what to look for, depending on your space and experience, along with Yahoo staffers who test and write about cooking gear for a living to determine which models deserved a spot on our list.
More great grills to consider
Char-Broil Performance Series 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill
When it comes to a solid gas grill on a budget, Char-Broil’s Performance Series 4-Burner is one to beat, with a 435-square-inch surface area — plus an additional 130 square inches of secondary cooking space — for serving up a sizable feast. It includes a five-year burner warranty.
Blackstone Original 36-Inch Propane Gas Griddle With Cover
If you're looking to invest in a flat-top grill, Blackstone’s are some of the biggest in the game. This popular model offers a 756-square-inch grilling area, complete with two variable cooking zones, for whipping up breakfast, lunch and dinner with ease.
Weber 36-Inch 4-Burner Propane Gas Griddle With Cover
This flat-top grill from Weber is another common pick for its fast, even heat distribution (it reached up to 500°F). Sear burgers, sausages and salmon to perfection; the grill also doubles as a slick omelet station for hearty brunches.
Pit Boss 440 Series Wood Pellet Grill
Want a serious smoker sans the sticker shock? Consider this compact wood pellet grill and smoker from Pit Boss. It’s constructed of durable stainless steel with a 465-square-inch surface — large enough for 20 burgers — and a 5-pound hopper capacity for searing, grilling, roasting, smoking, braising and/or baking a lot of grub at once. The LED digital control board and shiny mahogany finish add a sleek touch.
Recteq Flagship 1100 Wood Pellet Grill
Recteq's Flagship 1100 Wood Pellet Grill is another heavy-duty, stainless steel option with a hearty following, described by the brand and many of its enthusiasts as "the definition of gold standard in pellet grilling." It features a 1,100-square-inch grilling surface — the largest in this category — which can be used to bake, sear, smoke, grill and dehydrate. Did we mention it packs up to 700°F of heat?
Weber's top-rated, portable electric grill is a great option for those looking for the ease of electricity in a compact, table-friendly frame. This grill has racked up over 1,000 five-star ratings from reviewers who’ve come to rely on it for its easy setup, quick and even heat distribution and sufficient grilling space (up to six burgers). Porcelain-enameled, cast-iron cooking grates and a removable catch pan make it easy to clean.
Hamilton Beach 3-in-1 Electric Indoor Grill and Griddle
Looking to plug in at a low price tag? Check out this versatile pick from Hamilton Beach, which goes on triple duty as a full grill, full griddle or grill-griddle hybrid in one. Just switch up the aluminum plates according to the menu and occasion. Last time we checked, more than 4,000 Amazon reviewers had given this gizmo a standing ovation.
Weber Performer Premium Charcoal Grill with Stand
Prepare up to 13 burgers at a time on this streamlined charcoal grill from Weber, then let the one-touch cleaning system handle all the dirty work. This grill functions similar to Weber's Original Kettle, but the cooking grate is hinged plus there’s a built-in lid thermometer and a removable backlit LCD cook timer.
Grill FAQs
What’s the difference between propane and charcoal?
Propane and charcoal differ primarily in their method of combustion. Propane provides consistent heat and is easy to ignite, whereas charcoal creates a smokier flavor and reaches higher cooking temperatures. Keep in mind that charcoal grills require much more prep and cleanup time.
How do pellet grills work?
Pellet grills burn wood pellets (essentially pieces of compressed hardwood). Wood pellets are typically moved from a hopper to a fire pot via an auger where they're then ignited. Pellet grills are known for consistent heat and giving food a natural woodsmoke flavor.
Are griddles better than grills?
It all depends! Griddles and grills serve different purposes, so you’ll want to figure out which types of foods you plan to cook primarily. Griddles are ideal for pancakes and eggs given their flat surface, while grills lend a smoky flavor — and those signature grill marks — that a griddle can’t achieve.
Meet our experts
World barbecue champion Melissa Cookston, owner of Memphis BBQ Co.
Jonathan Fox of Atlanta’s Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q
