Unlike other models that struggle to balance versatility and ease of use, the Royal Gourmet CC1830S BBQ Charcoal Grill and Offset Smoker truly shines by offering everything in one package. I’ve tested it thoroughly—its 823 square inches of cooking space handles big cookouts with ease, and the offset smoker infuses meat with real smoky flavor. The adjustable lifting rack and lid thermometer make temperature control straightforward, even for beginners.
What really impressed me is how smoothly it transitions between grilling, smoking, and warming. The side door simplifies adding charcoal and removing ashes, while the ample workspace keeps everything organized. After trying many, this model stands out for its durability and thoughtful features, making it a fantastic choice whether you’re grilling for family or small parties. Trust me, this grill makes outdoor cooking feel effortless and fun.
Top Recommendation: Royal Gourmet CC1830S BBQ Charcoal Grill and Offset Smoker
Why We Recommend It: This model provides the largest total cooking area, with 823 sq. in., and includes a dedicated offset smoker for authentic smoky flavor. Its adjustable charcoal pan and built-in lid thermometer give precise control over temperature, outperforming others that lack such detailed features. The easy-to-open side door and multiple workspace surfaces enhance usability, making it the most reliable and versatile option tested.
Best outdoor grill: Our Top 5 Picks
- Royal Gourmet CC1830S BBQ Charcoal Grill and Offset Smoker – Best for Traditional Charcoal Grilling
- Grills House 2-Burner Gas & Charcoal Grill Combo, 34,000 BTU – Best Outdoor Grill for Summer
- Traeger Pro 22 Pellet Grill & Smoker, 6-in-1, 572 sq in – Best for Versatile Cooking
- Char-Broil® Classic Series™ Convective 3-Burner Side Burner – Best Outdoor Grill for Family
- Royal Gourmet GA5401T 5-Burner Gas Grill, Stainless Steel – Best Outdoor Grill Propane
Royal Gourmet CC1830S BBQ Charcoal Grill and Offset Smoker
- ✓ Huge cooking area
- ✓ Easy temperature control
- ✓ Solid build quality
- ✕ Heavy to move
- ✕ Limited weight capacity on shelf
| Total Cooking Area | 823 square inches |
| Main Cooking Grates | 475 sq. in. porcelain-enameled steel wire |
| Warming Rack | 151 sq. in. chrome-plated |
| Offset Smoker Area | 197 sq. in. |
| Cooking Surface Material | Porcelain-enameled steel |
| Temperature Monitoring | Built-in lid thermometer |
Instead of the usual bulky grills that take forever to heat up, this Royal Gourmet CC1830S immediately catches your eye with its sizeable cooking area and sturdy build. The porcelain-enameled steel wire grates feel solid under your tongs, and the large offset smoker attached to the side is a game-changer for infusing smoky flavor without the hassle of separate units.
What really stands out is the 823 square inches of total cooking space, giving you plenty of room for a big family feast or weekend BBQs with friends. The two-level adjustable charcoal pan is a thoughtful touch—it lets you control heat intensity by raising or lowering the charcoal relative to your food.
Plus, the side door for adding charcoal or removing ashes is super convenient, saving you from lifting the entire lid mid-cook.
The lid thermometer is easy to read and helps maintain consistent temperatures, which is perfect for slow-smoking ribs or grilling steaks to perfection. The ample front and side tables are handy for seasoning or holding your tools, while the bottom shelf keeps your essentials within reach but off the ground.
Using this grill, I enjoyed the steady smoke circulation from the offset smoker, which really enhanced the flavor of my brisket. The air vent responded quickly, making temperature adjustments straightforward.
Overall, it’s a reliable, spacious, and versatile grill that makes outdoor cooking feel like an effortless party.
Grills House 2-Burner Gas & Charcoal Grill Combo, 34,000 BTU
- ✓ Versatile dual-fuel design
- ✓ Large cooking surface
- ✓ Powerful heat output
- ✕ Limited charcoal capacity
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move
| Total Cooking Area | 1020 sq. in. |
| Primary Cooking Area | 666 sq. in. (gas and charcoal each 333 sq. in.) |
| Warming Rack Area | 157 sq. in. |
| Offset Smoker Area | 197 sq. in. |
| Main Burners Power | 2 stainless steel burners, 12,000 BTU each |
| Side Burner Power | 10,000 BTU |
The Grills House 2-Burner Gas & Charcoal Grill Combo instantly impressed me with its all-in-one design and solid build quality. The 1020 sq. in. total cooking area, including 666 sq. in. for primary grilling, easily handled a party of 20 friends with plenty of space for burgers, steaks, and veggies. The Grills House 2-Burner Gas & Charcoal Grill Combo, 34,000 BTU is a standout choice in its category.
The dual-fuel setup with a 34,000 BTU total power output offers the flexibility to switch between fast gas grilling and the rich flavor of charcoal. I particularly enjoyed using the 3-level adjustable charcoal pan, which made controlling heat for slow-cooking or searing a breeze, especially with the maximum charcoal capacity of 3.3 pounds. When comparing different best outdoor grill options, this model stands out for its quality.
The offset smoker adds a smoky depth to meats and can double as an extra charcoal grill, which I found perfect for infusing flavor while cooking multiple dishes at once. The quick Piezo ignition system made firing up the grill effortless, even in chilly weather, making this a truly versatile outdoor cooking solution.
Overall, the Grills House 2-Burner Gas & Charcoal Grill Combo combines robust power, generous space, and versatile features in a tidy package that caters to all your outdoor grilling needs. Whether you’re craving smoky ribs or quick gas-cooked steaks, this grill has you covered.
Traeger Pro 22 Pellet Grill & Smoker, 6-in-1, 572 sq in
- ✓ Precise temperature control
- ✓ Large cooking capacity
- ✓ Durable build quality
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move
- ✕ Pricey compared to basic grills
| Cooking Surface Area | 572 square inches |
| Temperature Range | 180°F to 450°F with ±15°F accuracy |
| Pellet Hopper Capacity | 18 pounds |
| Construction Materials | Powder-coated steel and porcelain-coated grill grates |
| Control System | Digital Pro Controller for precise temperature regulation |
| Versatility | 6-in-1 functions: grill, smoke, bake, roast, braise, BBQ |
Ever struggle with getting that perfect smoky flavor without spending hours babysitting your grill? That was me, constantly adjusting temps and worrying about uneven cooking.
The moment I fired up the Traeger Pro 22, everything changed.
This grill is surprisingly compact for its size, but don’t let that fool you—its 572 sq. in.
of cooking space can handle a full family feast. The sturdy, powder-coated steel build feels solid, and the porcelain-coated grates make cleanup a breeze.
I appreciated how easily I could move it around thanks to the large wheels and rugged sawhorse chassis.
What really blew me away was the digital Pro Controller. I set my desired temperature, and it maintained it within ±15°F—no fluctuation, no fuss.
Whether I was smoking ribs low and slow or grilling burgers hot and fast, the results were consistently excellent. The built-in meat probe was a game-changer, letting me monitor internal temps without lifting the lid and losing heat.
The 18-pound hopper means I can run long cooks without constantly refilling, and the clean-out door makes swapping pellets simple. Plus, the 6-in-1 versatility—grill, smoke, bake, roast, braise, and BBQ—means I rarely need another appliance.
It truly feels like a one-stop outdoor cooking solution that elevates every meal.
Overall, this grill combines power, precision, and convenience, making outdoor cooking enjoyable rather than stressful. It’s perfect for backyard cookouts or meal prepping for the week ahead.
Plus, it’s compatible with Traeger accessories, which adds even more flexibility.
Char-Broil® Classic Series™ Convective 3-Burner Side Burner
- ✓ Quick heat-up and even cooking
- ✓ Spacious cooking surface
- ✓ Handy side burner and shelf
- ✕ Tank not included
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move
| Primary Cooking Area | 360 square inches |
| Warming Rack Area | 170 square inches |
| BTU Rating | 30,000 BTU total |
| Side Burner Power | 8,000 BTU |
| Grates Material | Porcelain-coated wire |
| Fuel Type | Liquid propane (20-pound tank not included) |
It’s a sunny Saturday afternoon, and I’ve just fired up the Char-Broil® Classic Series™ Convective 3-Burner Side Burner for a backyard cookout. The moment I turned the control knobs, I immediately noticed how quickly it reached those sizzling temperatures—perfect for searing steaks or flipping burgers without waiting forever.
The 360-square-inch primary cooking area gives me plenty of space to cook a variety of foods at once. I easily grilled up eight chicken breasts and still had room for a couple of steaks.
The porcelain-coated wire grates warmed up fast and held the heat evenly, so nothing got cold or burned.
The side burner is a game-changer. I kept my sauce warm on the 8,000 BTU side burner while grilling, and I even boiled water for corn on the cob.
The large side shelf held everything I needed—plates, tongs, and seasonings—without feeling crowded. Plus, the Gear Trax-ready design means I can add accessories to stay super organized.
Cleaning was straightforward, thanks to the removable grease tray. It slides out easily for quick cleanup after a busy cookout.
The control knobs are smooth, giving me precise flame control, and the cart’s built-in propane tank holder keeps everything stable and accessible.
This grill feels sturdy and well-made, perfect for backyard enthusiasts who want a reliable, versatile cooking station. Whether I’m grilling for family or entertaining friends, it handles the job with ease and style.
Royal Gourmet GA5401T 5-Burner Gas Grill, Stainless Steel
- ✓ Spacious grilling area
- ✓ Reliable ignition system
- ✓ Versatile cooking options
- ✕ Heavier than some models
- ✕ Assembly can be time-consuming
| Total Cooking Area | 602 sq. in. |
| Primary Grilling Surface | 476 sq. in. |
| Warming Rack Area | 126 sq. in. |
| Main Burners Power | 4 x 10,000 BTU |
| Sear Burner Power | 12,000 BTU |
| Side Burner Power | 9,000 BTU |
The moment I unboxed the Royal Gourmet GA5401T, I was struck by its sleek, shiny stainless steel finish that immediately screams durability and style. The grill feels substantial in your hand, with a good weight that hints at solid construction.
The large 602 sq. in.
cooking area promises plenty of grilling space, and once I fired it up, I could tell it’s designed for serious outdoor cooking.
The four main burners light up with a quick press of the ignitor—no fuss, no delays. The flames spread evenly across the primary grilling surface, which is spacious enough to cook for a crowd.
The extra warming rack is a nice touch for keeping sides or buns warm while the main course cooks. The 12,000 BTU sear burner heats up fast, delivering that high-temperature sear perfect for steaks.
The stainless steel lid feels sturdy and well-insulated, helping to lock in heat for consistent results. I appreciated how easy it was to control the temperature with the knobs—each one offers smooth, precise adjustments.
The side shelf is large enough to hold plates, seasonings, and tools, making grilling more convenient. Plus, the side burner doubles as extra prep space when not in use, which is a real game-changer when you’re managing multiple dishes.
Starting it up is a breeze—just turn the knobs to “HI” and press the ignitor. It fires up reliably every time, saving me precious time and frustration.
Overall, this grill feels built to last, with a versatile setup that handles everything from quick weeknight dinners to big weekend barbecues.
What Features Should You Look for in the Best Outdoor Grill?
When searching for the best outdoor grill, several key features are essential to ensure quality performance and durability.
- Material: The best outdoor grills are often made from high-quality materials like stainless steel or cast iron, which resist rust and corrosion. These materials not only enhance the grill’s longevity but also provide better heat retention and distribution, leading to more even cooking.
- Cooking Area: A larger cooking area allows for grilling multiple items at once, making it ideal for gatherings and family meals. Look for grills that offer ample space and possibly additional warming racks to keep food warm without overcooking.
- Heat Output: The grill’s BTU (British Thermal Unit) rating indicates its heating capacity. A higher BTU rating generally means more powerful burners, which can provide quicker heating and better searing capabilities for meats and vegetables.
- Temperature Control: Features such as adjustable burners and built-in thermometers are crucial for precise temperature management. Good temperature control helps in achieving the desired doneness for various types of food, ensuring juicy and flavorful results.
- Portability: If you plan to move your grill frequently or take it to different outdoor events, consider its weight and design. Grills with wheels or foldable designs are easier to transport and set up, enhancing their usability in various locations.
- Ease of Cleaning: Look for grills that come with removable grease trays, porcelain-coated grates, or easy-to-clean surfaces. This feature reduces maintenance time and helps keep the grill in good condition, ensuring better hygiene and performance.
- Fuel Type: Outdoor grills can run on gas, charcoal, or electricity, each offering unique benefits. Gas grills provide convenience and quick heating, charcoal grills impart a smoky flavor, and electric grills are suitable for areas with restrictions on open flames.
- Add-Ons and Accessories: Some of the best outdoor grills come with additional features such as side burners, rotisserie kits, or smoker boxes. These enhancements can expand your cooking options and make the grilling experience more versatile and enjoyable.
What Are the Different Types of Outdoor Grills and Their Unique Advantages?
The different types of outdoor grills include gas grills, charcoal grills, electric grills, and pellet grills, each with unique advantages.
- Gas Grills: Gas grills are popular for their convenience and quick heating capabilities.
- Charcoal Grills: Charcoal grills are favored for the smoky flavor they impart to food, appealing to traditionalists.
- Electric Grills: Electric grills are ideal for those with limited outdoor space or restrictions on open flames.
- Pellet Grills: Pellet grills combine the flavor of wood smoking with the convenience of automatic temperature control.
Gas grills utilize propane or natural gas, providing a clean-burning fuel source that heats up quickly and allows for precise temperature control. They are often equipped with additional features such as side burners and rotisserie attachments, making them versatile for various cooking styles.
Charcoal grills require charcoal briquettes or lump charcoal, which burns hotter and longer than gas, producing distinctive flavors. The process of lighting and maintaining the temperature can be more labor-intensive, but many enthusiasts appreciate the art of grilling with charcoal.
Electric grills operate using electricity, making them suitable for apartments and places where gas or charcoal grilling is not possible. They can be used indoors or outdoors and are easy to clean, though they may not provide the same depth of flavor as traditional grills.
Pellet grills use wood pellets as fuel, offering a unique combination of grilling, smoking, and baking capabilities. They feature digital controllers that maintain consistent temperatures, allowing for slow-cooked, flavorful meals with minimal effort, appealing to both novice and experienced grillers.
How Does a Gas Grill Compare with a Charcoal Grill for Outdoor Cooking?
| Feature | Gas Grill | Charcoal Grill |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Uses propane or natural gas; easy to ignite and control temperature. | Uses charcoal briquettes or lump charcoal; requires more effort to light and maintain heat. |
| Cooking Time | Heats up quickly, allowing for faster cooking times. | Takes longer to reach cooking temperature; often results in longer wait times. |
| Flavor | Provides a clean flavor; some models have smoking features for added taste. | Offers a traditional smoky flavor that many grilling enthusiasts prefer. |
| Maintenance | Generally easier to clean; fewer ashes and residues. | Requires more cleanup due to ash and residue from charcoal. |
| Price Range | Typically ranges from $100 to $2,500 depending on features and size. | Generally less expensive, ranging from $30 to $1,500. |
| Portability | Many models are portable; lightweight and easy to move. | Some models are portable, but they can be heavier and bulkier. |
| Environmental Impact | Produces fewer emissions, but natural gas extraction can have environmental effects. | Charcoal production can lead to deforestation; produces more CO2 when burned. |
| Safety Considerations | Generally safer with built-in safety features; requires proper ventilation. | Can pose a fire risk if not monitored; requires caution when handling hot coals. |
What Are the Key Benefits of Using a Pellet Grill?
The key benefits of using a pellet grill include versatility, convenience, and flavor enhancement.
- Versatility: Pellet grills can be used for grilling, smoking, baking, and roasting, making them a multifunctional option for outdoor cooking enthusiasts.
- Convenience: With automated temperature control and easy-to-use digital interfaces, pellet grills allow for consistent cooking results without the constant monitoring required by traditional grills.
- Flavor Enhancement: The use of flavored wood pellets infuses food with a rich, smoky taste that enhances the overall flavor profile, making meals more enjoyable.
- Temperature Range: Pellet grills offer a wide temperature range, allowing users to cook at low temperatures for smoking or high temperatures for searing, providing greater control over the cooking process.
- Fuel Efficiency: Pellet grills use compressed wood pellets, which burn efficiently and produce less ash compared to other types of fuel, making cleanup easier and reducing waste.
- Consistent Cooking: The PID (Proportional-Integral-Derivative) temperature control systems in many pellet grills ensure even heat distribution, resulting in perfectly cooked food every time.
How Do You Choose the Right Size of Outdoor Grill for Your Space?
Cooking capacity is essential as well; if you frequently host large gatherings, a larger grill with more cooking surface area will be beneficial. Conversely, for smaller families or occasional use, a compact grill may suffice.
The type of grill matters too; gas grills often come in larger sizes due to their features, while charcoal grills can be more compact. Electric grills are typically smaller and great for limited outdoor areas.
Storage and portability considerations will affect your choice as well. If you have limited storage space or prefer flexibility in your setup, a smaller, portable model could be ideal.
Lastly, features and accessories can enhance grilling but may also require additional space. Look for models that fit your cooking style and space constraints without overcrowding your outdoor area.
What Are the Most Reliable Brands Known for Producing the Best Outdoor Grills?
The most reliable brands known for producing the best outdoor grills include:
- Weber: Renowned for its durability and performance, Weber grills offer a range of options from charcoal to gas, making them versatile for any outdoor cooking enthusiast.
- Traeger: Specializing in pellet grills, Traeger is celebrated for its ability to infuse wood smoke flavor into food, providing a unique cooking experience while maintaining ease of use.
- Char-Broil: Known for its affordability and innovation, Char-Broil offers a variety of gas and electric grills that are user-friendly and ideal for beginners.
- Napoleon: This brand is recognized for its high-quality construction and advanced features, such as infrared cooking and built-in rotisserie options, making it a favorite among serious grillers.
- Broil King: With a strong emphasis on performance and heat retention, Broil King grills are designed for professional-grade cooking, featuring robust burners and ample cooking space.
Weber grills are a staple in the outdoor cooking community, praised for their exceptional build quality and long-lasting materials. Their lineup includes models that cater to all grilling styles, ensuring that users can find the perfect fit for their outdoor cooking needs.
Traeger has revolutionized grilling with its pellet grill technology, allowing users to cook with precise temperature control and wood-infused flavors. The ease of use and minimal maintenance make Traeger an appealing choice for both novice and seasoned grillers.
Char-Broil stands out for offering a wide range of grills that balance quality and price, making it accessible for everyone. Their innovative features, such as the TRU-Infrared cooking system, help ensure even heat distribution and prevent flare-ups.
Napoleon grills are often considered a premium choice due to their high-end materials and thoughtful design. Many of their models come equipped with features like built-in lights and side burners, which enhance the grilling experience and allow for versatile cooking options.
Broil King is recognized for its powerful burners and efficient cooking capabilities, making it a top pick for serious grillers seeking performance. The brand’s commitment to quality craftsmanship ensures that their grills can withstand the rigors of regular use while delivering excellent cooking results.
How Can Accessories Enhance Your Outdoor Grilling Experience?
Accessories can significantly enhance your outdoor grilling experience by providing convenience, functionality, and versatility.
- Grill Covers: Protect your grill from the elements with a durable cover that fits snugly. This helps prevent rust and wear, extending the lifespan of your grill while keeping it clean and ready for use.
- Grilling Tools: Essential tools like tongs, spatulas, and brushes improve your grilling precision and safety. High-quality, heat-resistant tools can help you manage food effortlessly and avoid burns, ensuring a more enjoyable cooking process.
- Thermometers: Using a meat thermometer ensures that your food is cooked to the perfect temperature, enhancing both safety and taste. Accurate temperature readings can help you achieve ideal doneness for meats, ensuring juicy and flavorful results.
- Grill Grates: Upgrading or adding grill grates can provide better heat distribution and prevent food from falling through. Specialty grates, such as cast iron or ceramic, can also create beautiful grill marks and improve flavor retention.
- Smoking Boxes: Incorporating a smoking box allows you to add rich, smoky flavors to your grilled dishes. By using wood chips, you can enhance the taste of meats and vegetables, making your outdoor cooking experience more flavorful and exciting.
- Side Burners: Many top outdoor grills come with side burners that allow you to prepare side dishes simultaneously. This feature adds convenience and efficiency, enabling you to serve a complete meal without needing to run back indoors.
- Grill Lights: Installing grill lights enables you to cook at any hour, even after sunset. Proper lighting enhances visibility, allowing you to monitor your food and prevent overcooking while adding a stylish touch to your outdoor setup.
- Cleaning Tools: Keeping your grill clean is vital for maintenance and safety; therefore, investing in specialized cleaning tools such as brushes and scrapers is essential. These tools help you quickly remove grease and residue, ensuring your grill is ready for the next use.
What Are the Essential Best Practices for Maintaining Your Outdoor Grill?
Check and Replace Parts: Regular inspections of your grill’s components, such as burners, ignitors, and hoses, are crucial for safe grilling. If you notice any cracks, corrosion, or other signs of wear, replacing parts promptly will enhance safety and performance.
Season Your Grill: Seasoning your grill grates before cooking can create a protective layer, preventing food from sticking and making cleanup easier. This process usually involves applying a thin layer of cooking oil to the grates and heating the grill to allow the oil to bond to the surface.
Proper Storage: During extreme weather conditions, especially winter, storing your grill in a garage or shed can help prevent physical damage and rust. If indoor storage isn’t an option, consider using a heavy-duty cover designed for year-round outdoor use to shield it from the elements.
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