Grilling is a beloved pastime for many, and nothing beats the convenience of a gas grill. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to find the right one that fits your budget and needs. That’s where we come in. We’ve spent hours researching and testing gas grills under $500 to identify the best options for you.
When it comes to purchasing a gas grill, there are a few critical things to consider. The first is the size of the grill. You’ll want to ensure that it’s large enough to accommodate the amount of food you plan to cook regularly. The second is the quality of the materials used in the grill’s construction. A durable and sturdy grill will last longer and perform better than a flimsy one. Finally, you’ll want to consider the grill’s features, such as the number of burners, cooking grates, and temperature control.
We tested and reviewed ten gas grills under $500 to identify the ones that offer the best combination of size, quality, and features. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned grilling pro, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s dive in and find your perfect gas grill under $500.
Best Gas Grills Under $500
We understand that finding the perfect gas grill can be a daunting task. With so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one that fits your budget and requirements. That’s why we have researched and tested numerous gas grills under $500 to bring you the best options available. In this article, we have compiled a list of the top gas grills that offer excellent performance, durability, and features without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned grill master, these gas grills will help you create delicious meals for your family and friends.
HOMENOTE Large Under Grill Mat
If you want to keep your outdoor floor patio or deck safe from hot embers and fire sparks, then you should consider purchasing the HOMENOTE Large Under Grill Mat.
Pros
- Coated with fiberglass fabric for optimal protection
- Manufactured with organic silicone coating for premium quality
- Easy to clean and store
Cons
- May not be as thick as expected
- Shows footprints and dirt easily
- Edge seam may pull apart over time
We recently used the HOMENOTE Large Under Grill Mat and were pleased with its performance. The fiberglass fabric coating kept our deck safe from hot embers and fire sparks while we grilled on our gas grill. The organic silicone coating also made it easy to clean up any spills or grease splashes.
The mat is also reversible, which means it can be flipped over for longer service life without sticking or marking the surface. We appreciated how easy it was to clean with mild soap and water or with a water hose. Plus, its low-profile black design made it a perfect match with any grill/deck combination.
However, we did notice that the mat was not as thick as we expected it to be. It also showed footprints and dirt easily, which may require more frequent cleaning. Additionally, the edge seam may pull apart over time.
Overall, we would recommend the HOMENOTE Large Under Grill Mat for anyone looking to protect their deck or patio while grilling. It is available in a variety of shapes to fit different grilling requirements, so be sure to measure the width and depth of your grill before placing your order.
Char-Broil Performance 300
If you are looking for a gas grill that delivers excellent performance without breaking the bank, the Char-Broil Performance 300 is a great option.
Pros
- The two burners heat up quickly and evenly, allowing you to cook your food to perfection.
- The cabinet design provides ample storage space for your grilling accessories and propane tank.
- The grill is easy to clean thanks to the removable grease tray and porcelain-coated grates.
Cons
- The assembly process can be a bit tedious and time-consuming.
- The temperature gauge is not always accurate, so you may need to use an additional thermometer to ensure your food is properly cooked.
- The grill is not as durable as some higher-end models, so it may not last as long with frequent use.
We recently had the opportunity to test out the Char-Broil Performance 300 and were impressed with its performance. The two burners heated up quickly and evenly, allowing us to cook everything from burgers to vegetables to perfection. The cabinet design provided ample storage space for our grilling accessories and propane tank, which was a nice touch.
Cleaning the grill was also a breeze thanks to the removable grease tray and porcelain-coated grates. However, we did find that the assembly process was a bit tedious and time-consuming, so make sure you set aside enough time to put it together.
One thing to note is that the temperature gauge is not always accurate, so you may need to use an additional thermometer to ensure your food is properly cooked. Additionally, the grill is not as durable as some higher-end models, so it may not last as long with frequent use.
Overall, we would recommend the Char-Broil Performance 300 to anyone looking for a reliable gas grill under $500. It delivers great performance and has plenty of features to make your grilling experience enjoyable and hassle-free.
Weber Genesis E-325S Liquid Propane Gas Grill
If you’re looking for a high-quality gas grill under $500, we highly recommend the Weber Genesis E-325S.
Pros
- The extra-large sear zone allows you to cook multiple steaks at once.
- The expandable top cooking grate creates a second level of grilling space, perfect for cooking vegetables or keeping food warm.
- The pull-out grease tray makes cleaning up a breeze.
Cons
- Assembly can take a bit of time, but the instructions are clear and easy to follow.
- The grill is quite heavy, so you may need some help moving it around.
- The price is a bit higher than some other gas grills in this price range, but the quality and features make it worth the investment.
We’ve been using the Weber Genesis E-325S for a few months now and we’re extremely impressed with its performance. The sear zone allows us to cook multiple steaks at once, and they always come out perfectly cooked and full of flavor. We also love the expandable top cooking grate, which gives us extra space to cook vegetables or keep food warm while we finish up other dishes.
One of the best features of this grill is the pull-out grease tray, which makes cleaning up after a meal a breeze. We simply pull out the tray, dispose of the grease, and wipe down the grill grates with a damp cloth. It’s quick and easy, which means we can spend more time enjoying our meal and less time cleaning up.
While assembly can take a bit of time, the instructions are clear and easy to follow. We also appreciate the high-quality materials and construction of the grill, which make it quite heavy. However, this also means it’s built to last and can withstand years of use.
Overall, we highly recommend the Weber Genesis E-325S for anyone looking for a high-quality gas grill under $500. It’s packed with features, easy to clean, and built to last.
Royal Gourmet US-SG6002R 6 BBQ Liquid Propane Grill
If you’re looking for a spacious gas grill that can accommodate a large gathering, the Royal Gourmet US-SG6002R 6 BBQ Liquid Propane Grill is a great option.
Pros
- High output with 71,000 BTU in total
- Spacious cooking area with 795 sq. in. cooking area
- Sear burner and side burner for quick grilling and preparing side dishes
Cons
- Assembly can be a bit challenging
- Some parts may arrive damaged
- Grease tray and cup may need frequent cleaning
We were impressed with the Royal Gourmet US-SG6002R 6 BBQ Liquid Propane Grill’s high output, which makes it easy to achieve high performance. The spacious cooking area is perfect for large gatherings, and the sear burner and side burner are great for quick grilling and preparing side dishes.
However, assembly can be a bit challenging, and some parts may arrive damaged. Additionally, the grease tray and cup may need frequent cleaning.
Overall, if you’re in the market for a spacious gas grill that can accommodate a large gathering, the Royal Gourmet US-SG6002R 6 BBQ Liquid Propane Grill is a great option.
Char-Broil Performance 4-Burner Gas Grill
If you’re looking for a durable and reliable gas grill, the Char-Broil Performance 4-Burner Gas Grill might be the perfect fit for you.
Pros
- The stainless steel finish gives the grill a sleek and modern look while also making it more durable.
- The electric ignition makes starting the grill quick and easy.
- The porcelain-coated grease pan is removable, making it easy to clean and maintain.
Cons
- The propane tank is not included, so you’ll need to purchase that separately.
- Some users have reported that the grill can be difficult to assemble.
- The grill cover is not included, so you’ll need to purchase that separately if you want to protect your grill from the elements.
We recently purchased the Char-Broil Performance 4-Burner Gas Grill and have been thoroughly impressed with its performance. The stainless steel finish not only looks great, but it also seems to be holding up well against the elements. The electric ignition makes starting the grill a breeze, and we appreciate the convenience of the side burner for cooking side dishes.
The porcelain-coated grease pan is a nice touch, as it makes cleaning up after grilling much easier. The stainless steel burners emit flame from the top, which allows for even cooking and helps prevent hot spots. The porcelain-coated cast-iron grates are also rust-resistant and seem to be holding up well so far.
While we did have some difficulty with the assembly process, we were ultimately able to get the grill put together without too much trouble. We do wish that the propane tank and grill cover were included, but those are relatively minor issues.
Overall, we would definitely recommend the Char-Broil Performance 4-Burner Gas Grill for anyone in the market for a durable and reliable gas grill under $500.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best gas grill under $500, there are several factors to consider. We’ve compiled a list of features to look for to help you make an informed decision.
Size
The size of the grill is an important factor to consider. A larger grill may be necessary if you plan on cooking for a large group of people. However, if you have limited space, a smaller grill may be a better option. Make sure to measure the area where you plan on placing the grill before making a purchase.
Material
The material of the grill is also important. Stainless steel is a popular choice for gas grills as it is durable and easy to clean. Cast iron grates are also a good option as they retain heat well and create grill marks on your food. However, they may require more maintenance than stainless steel grates.
BTUs
BTUs, or British Thermal Units, measure the amount of heat a grill can produce. The higher the BTUs, the hotter the grill can get. However, a higher BTU does not necessarily mean a better grill. Look for a grill with a BTU rating that matches the size of the grill.
Burners
The number of burners on a grill can affect how evenly your food cooks. Look for a grill with at least two burners to ensure even heating. Additionally, some grills come with a side burner, which can be useful for cooking side dishes or sauces.
Additional Features
There are several additional features to consider when choosing a gas grill. Some grills come with a built-in thermometer, which can help you monitor the temperature of your food. Others come with a warming rack, which can keep your food warm while you finish cooking other items. Look for a grill with features that match your cooking needs.
Overall, when choosing the best gas grill under $500, it’s important to consider the size, material, BTUs, burners, and additional features. By taking these factors into account, you can find a grill that meets your cooking needs and fits within your budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-rated gas grills for the money?
The top-rated gas grills for the money are those that offer excellent performance and durability at an affordable price. Some of the best gas grills in this category include the Weber, Char-Broil, and HomeNote.
Which gas grill is the best value for the price?
The best value for the price is subjective and depends on individual preferences. However, the Weber gas grill is often considered the best value for the price due to its excellent performance, durability, and features.
What should I look for when choosing a gas grill under $500?
When choosing a gas grill under $500, it’s important to consider factors such as cooking area, BTU output, construction quality, and features such as side burners and warming racks. It’s also important to choose a reputable brand with a good warranty and customer support.
Are there any gas grills under $500 that are as good as more expensive models?
Yes, there are several gas grills under $500 that offer comparable performance and features to more expensive models. The Weber and Char-Broil are two examples of gas grills that offer excellent value for the price.
