Grills & Smokers

Choosing a Fuel Type

Fuel shapes everything about outdoor cooking: flavor, convenience, cleanup, and cost. Pick the fuel that fits how often you cook and how much hands-off time you want, then narrow down size and features.

• Gas grills light instantly and offer easy temperature control, ideal for weeknight burgers and chicken.
• Charcoal grills reach higher searing temperatures and add a smoky taste, but take longer to heat and clean.
• Pellet grills use a thermostat and auger to feed wood pellets, making low and slow smoking nearly automatic.
• Electric grills and smokers suit balconies and places where open flames are restricted.
• Portable grills fit camping, tailgating, and small patios.

Sizing a Gas Grill

Burner count is a quick guide to cooking area. Two burners suit couples and small spaces, three to four burners handle most families, and six burners make sense for frequent hosts. Compare our guides to 3 burner gas grills and 4 burner gas grills to see which fits your gatherings. Total BTUs matter less than even heat distribution and a lid that seals well.

Features Worth Paying For

• Heavy grates (cast iron or thick stainless) that hold heat for better sear marks.
• A built-in thermometer, plus a separate probe thermometer for accurate meat temps.
• Side burners or a sear station if you cook sides outdoors.
• Grease management that is easy to reach and empty.
• Sturdy wheels and a stable frame.

Most reliable full size gas grills cost from around $300 to $1,000, while pellet grills often start near $400. Our list of BBQ grills under $500 is helpful if you want solid value without extras you will not use.

Smoking Basics

Smoking relies on steady low heat, usually around 225 to 275°F, for several hours. Pellet and electric smokers hold temperature on their own, while charcoal smokers need more attention but reward you with deep flavor. Always cook meat to safe internal temperatures and check with a probe.

Protect Your Investment

A fitted cover protects against rain, UV, and pests. Clean grates after each cook and empty grease trays regularly to prevent flare ups. Our pellet grill cover guide explains materials that hold up outdoors.

Safety is simple but important: keep grills well away from siding, railings, and overhanging branches, and never use one inside a garage or enclosed porch.