Grilling is one of the most popular pastimes, enjoyed by millions of people around the world. Whether you’re cooking up some burgers and hot dogs for a backyard barbecue or preparing a delicious steak dinner for your family, a good grill is essential. In fact, there are many great grills available for under $500 to help you find the perfect one for your needs and budget.
In-depth review
1. Weber Spirit II E-310
The Weber Spirit II E-310 is a high-quality grill that is available for under $500. It has a spacious cooking area of 529 square inches, which is plenty of space to cook for a crowd. The burners on this grill are designed to heat up quickly and evenly, which allows for better cooking results. Additionally, the porcelain-coated cast iron grates are built to last, and they are easy to clean.
Pros:
- Large cooking area
- High-quality burners that heat up evenly and quickly
- Porcelain-coated grates that are easy to clean
Cons:
- Does not come with a side burner
2. Char-Broil Performance 475
Another great option for those looking for a grill under $500 is the Char-Broil Performance 475. It has a large cooking area of 475 square inches, and four stainless steel burners. The Char-Broil Performance 475 also features a side burner, which can be used to cook side dishes or to keep food warm. The grill is also designed to be easy to use, with an electronic ignition system and a built-in fuel gauge.
Pros:
- Large cooking area
- Four stainless steel burners that heat up quickly and evenly
- Side burner for cooking side dishes or keeping food warm
- Electronic ignition system and built-in fuel gauge
Cons:
- Can be difficult to assemble
3. Cuisinart CGG-7400
The Cuisinart CGG-7400 is a portable grill that is great for those who like to take their cooking on the go. It has a total cooking area of 443 square inches, and four stainless steel burners. It is also designed to be easy to clean, with a removable grease tray and a porcelain-coated cast iron cooking grate. The Cuisinart CGG-7400 also features foldable side shelves, which make it even more compact for storage.
Pros:
- Portable and easy to store
- Removable grease tray for easy cleaning
- Foldable side shelves for compact storage
- Porcelain-coated cast iron grate for durability
Cons:
- Small cooking area
4. Royal Gourmet SG6002
The Royal Gourmet SG6002 is a great option for those who frequently cook for large groups. It has a total cooking area of 660 square inches, and six stainless steel burners. The Royal Gourmet SG6002 also features two side tables, which provide plenty of space for food prep. Additionally, it has a built-in thermometer, which makes it easy to monitor the temperature of the grill.
Pros:
- Large cooking area with six stainless steel burners
- Built-in thermometer for easy monitoring of temperature
- Two side tables for food prep
- Durable construction and good build quality
Cons:
- Expensive
5. Dyna-Glo DGB390SNP-D
The Dyna-Glo DGB390SNP-D is a compact grill that is great for small spaces. It has a cooking area of 390 square inches, and three stainless steel burners. The Dyna-Glo DGB390SNP-D is also designed to be easy to use, with an electronic ignition system and a built-in fuel gauge. It is also built to last, with a porcelain-enameled steel cooking grate.
Pros:
- Compact and good for small spaces
- Porcelain-enameled cooking grate for durability
- Electronic ignition and built-in fuel gauge
- Affordable price point
Cons:
- Small cooking area
FAQs
1. What size grill should I get?
The size of the grill you need depends on how many people you typically cook for and how much space you have available. A small grill with a cooking surface of 200-300 square inches is suitable for a family of 2-4. If you like to entertain or cook for larger groups, consider a grill with a cooking surface of 400-600 square inches.
2. How do I maintain my grill?
Regular cleaning is essential to maintain your grill’s performance and prolong its lifespan. Clean the grates after each use with a wire brush to remove any leftover food and debris. Empty the grease tray and wipe down the exterior regularly. Cover your grill when not in use to protect it from dirt, dust, and other elements.
