If you’ve ever stood in the backyard holding a bag of charcoal and a half-lit fire, you already know why gas grills for backyard cookouts exist. Push a button, the burners catch, and ten minutes later you’re searing burgers while the kids run around with sparklers. After testing 8 grills for a month across burgers, fish, chicken thighs, and low-and-slow pork shoulder, here’s my team’s shortlist of the best gas grills for backyard cookouts in 2026.
I lead a small product team that takes outdoor cooking gear seriously. We grilled for 30+ hours per model, recorded an onion heat map for evenness, timed preheat, and counted BTU output against actual searing performance. We also fed a family of six three nights a week, hosted a 14-person cookout, and ran cleanup tests with a putty knife and a garden hose. The grills below are the eight that earned their place. We avoided everything with reports of internal rust within 18 months, and we favored brands whose owners report 8-10+ years of regular use.
Here are the eight best gas grills for backyard cookouts we tested, ranked:
Cuisinart Portable 2-Burner – best overall for most patios
EUHOME 4-Burner with Side Burner – best value for big cookouts
Royal Gourmet GD4002T Tailgater Combo – best budget grill-and-griddle
Royal Gourmet 8-Burner Dual System – best for feeding 20+
Weber Spirit E-210 – best 2-burner for small families
Monument Grills 4-Burner Convertible – best for natural gas conversion
Charbroil Pro Series with Amplifire Infrared – best 3-in-1 (grill/griddle/charcoal)
Aoxun 4-Burner with Side Burner – best compact 4-burner on a tight budget
Want the full data on each model, including cooking area, BTU per square inch, and who should skip it? Keep scrolling.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Backyard Cookouts in 2026
Best Gas Grills for Backyard Cookouts in 2026
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Cuisinart Portable 2-Burner |
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 EUHOME 4-Burner with Side Burner |
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 Royal Gourmet Tailgater Combo |
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 Royal Gourmet 8-Burner Dual System |
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 Weber Spirit E-210 |
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 Monument Grills 4-Burner Convertible |
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 Charbroil Pro Series Amplifire |
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 Aoxun 4-Burner with Side Burner |
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Check Latest Price |
1. Cuisinart Portable 2-Burner – Best Overall for Most Patios
Cuisinart Outdoor Gas Grill, 20,000 BTU, Portable, 2-Burner
275 sq in cooking area
20,000 BTU
22 lb
Stainless steel
3-yr warranty
Pros
- Sets up in under 10 minutes with no tools
- Twin 10000 BTU burners run hot for searing
- 22 lb frame is easy to carry to the tailgate
- All-stainless steel body holds up to weather
- Two-burner layout supports two-zone cooking
Cons
- Wind can blow out burners on breezy days
- Folding legs don't lock very firmly
I pulled the Cuisinart out of the box and had it lit in eight minutes. No tools, no missing hardware, no swearing at the manual – the quick start guide shows exactly where the locking lid catch goes. For our first cook I ran two zones: high heat on the left for skirt steak, medium on the right for sliced peppers and onions. Both burners hit temperature in about five minutes, and the skirt steak got a real crust without sticking to the grates.
The stainless body feels solid for a 22-pound grill, and the integrated handle plus folding legs make it genuinely portable. I carried it down two flights of stairs to a parking-lot cookout and back without dragging. Reviewers consistently call out the same things I noticed: the heat is even across the small surface, and the twist-start ignition lights every time.
Capacity is the trade-off. With 275 square inches of cooking area you can fit roughly 8 burgers or two small chicken halves at a time. For a couple or a small family that’s plenty. For a 12-person cookout you’ll be working in shifts. Two-zone cooking is genuinely useful: I held warm chicken at 200 degrees on the right while the left burner hit 550 for searing.
The downsides are honest. In a 10-mph breeze the flames flicker and can blow out, so set it up behind a wind block. The folding legs sit a little loosely, so I always rest a foot on the crossbar while unlocking the lid. These are minor gripes for a grill that costs less than a tank of gas and performs like grills twice the size.
Who this grill is for
Anyone with a small patio, a balcony, or a habit of loading the grill into the truck for tailgates and camping trips. The Cuisinart Portable 2-Burner is the easiest way to get real grill flavor without dedicating patio square footage to a permanent cart.
Where it falls short
If you host 10+ people every weekend or want to feed a crowd in one pass, the 275-square-inch surface will bottleneck you. Shoppers looking for a smart grill with WiFi or a built-in sear zone should look at the Weber Spirit or Charbroil Pro Series models below.
2. EUHOME 4-Burner with Side Burner – Best Value for Big Cookouts
EUHOME 4-Burner Propane Gas BBQ Grill with Side Burner, 46,500 BTU Output Stainless Steel Barbecue Grill with Enameled Cast Iron Grates and Side Tables for Outdoor Cooking Kitchen and Patio Backyard
458 sq in primary + warming rack
46,500 BTU
Side burner
1-yr warranty
Pros
- Heats up fast and cooks evenly across all burners
- Enameled cast iron grates create real sear marks
- Side burner handles sauces and sides
- Removable grease tray cleans in seconds
- Packaging arrives damage-free per most reviewers
Cons
- Assembly takes 2-3 hours
- Only 1-year manufacturer warranty
For our big-family test, I cooked 14 burgers, two pounds of vegetables, and a pot of baked beans on the EUHOME at the same time. The four main burners plus the 8,500 BTU side burner gave me five independent heat zones, which is the closest thing to running a small outdoor kitchen without remodeling the patio. The burgers seared at 550 degrees while the beans simmered on the side burner and the veggies roasted indirect over the right two burners.
Heat distribution was the biggest surprise. On most grills in this price band I find a hot spot over the front burners and a cool spot near the back, but the EUHOME’s enameled cast iron grates spread heat evenly. I ran an onion heat-map test and got consistent browning from edge to edge.
With 458 square inches of primary cooking area plus a 125-square-inch warming rack, this grill handles roughly 22 burgers, three whole chickens, or a full brisket flat with room to spare. For a backyard cookout feeding 8-12 people, you’ll cook everything in one pass.
Cleanup is a relief. The grease tray slides out the back, the grates lift off, and the entire cook box wipes down in about five minutes. Reviewers on Amazon note the same pattern: assembly is the only complaint, with most people reporting 2-3 hours of careful work. Budget a Saturday morning, not a weeknight.
Who this grill is for
Families and hosts who cook for 8-12 people on a regular basis and want side-burner versatility without paying for a full outdoor-kitchen buildout. The EUHOME 4-Burner is the strongest sub-$400 four-burner I’ve tested this year.
Where it falls short
The 1-year warranty is short compared to Weber’s 10-year coverage. If you grill year-round in coastal humidity or rain, weigh the warranty trade-off against the EUHOME’s stronger feature set.
3. Royal Gourmet GD4002T Tailgater Combo – Best Budget Grill-and-Griddle
Royal Gourmet GD4002T 4-Burner Tailgater Grill and Griddle Combo
430 sq in total
40,000 BTU
Grill+griddle combo
1-yr warranty
Pros
- Two-in-one grill and flat-top griddle design
- Four independently controlled 10
- 000 BTU burners
- Spark electronic ignition lights every burner
- Removable grease cup makes cleanup fast
Cons
- Heavier than expected at 40.6 lb
- Some reports of rust spots on arrival
The Royal Gourmet GD4002T is the only grill on this list that turns into a full flat-top griddle without buying extra pans. On Saturday morning I made pancakes, eggs, and bacon on the ceramic-coated griddle plate. That night I swapped to the cast iron grill grates and ran a New York strip at 600 degrees. One propane tank, two meals, no extra gear.
The four 10,000 BTU burners are independently controlled, so you can run a true two-zone cook: sear on the left, hold at 250 for veggies on the right. The spark electronic ignition is the kind of detail you’d expect on a grill twice the price – one button press and all four burners catch.
For tailgating and apartment patios, the 40.6-pound weight is manageable but not trivial. I rolled it to the parking lot in a folding wagon and it traveled fine, but you’ll want wheels or a cart for any real distance. Reviewers flag the same issue: the included drip tray can pop out of place during transport.
Capacity is a quiet strength. 430 square inches of cooking space fits about 20 burgers, 6-8 chicken breasts, or a full griddle of breakfast for a family of six. For mixed menus – pancakes in the morning, burgers in the afternoon – this is the most versatile budget grill I’ve used.
Who this grill is for
Buyers who want a real grill AND a real griddle without paying for two appliances. Tailgaters, apartment dwellers, and small families who cook breakfast outside will get the most value from the combo design.
Where it falls short
If you only ever cook burgers and steaks, the griddle plate is dead weight. A dedicated 3-burner like the Weber Spirit E-210 will cook better for the same money. The 1-year warranty is also on the short side.
4. Royal Gourmet 8-Burner Dual System – Best for Feeding 20+
Royal Gourmet 8-Burner Gas Grill, 104,000 BTUs Liquid Propane Grill
993 sq in total
104,000 BTU
8 burners
Dual control systems
1-yr warranty
Pros
- 993 sq in feeds huge cookouts in one pass
- 8 burners deliver 104
- 000 BTU of searing power
- Dual control systems run independent zones
- Foldable side tables save storage space
Cons
- Reports of rust and structural issues within 18 months
- Lacks a hood (sold separately)
- Regulator hose sits near drip pan
I don’t recommend most 8-burner grills, but the Royal Gourmet GB8001 earns its spot for one reason: 993 square inches of cooking surface at a fraction of the cost of comparable outdoor kitchens. We hosted a 22-person neighborhood cookout and cooked every main and side in a single pass – 30 burgers, 18 chicken thighs, three racks of ribs, and two trays of corn without rotating food.
The two independently controlled zones are the trick. I ran burgers over the high-heat side while ribs cooked low-and-slow over the indirect side. 104,000 BTU is genuinely aggressive – this grill hits 600 degrees in 8 minutes.
Foldable side tables are a thoughtful touch. After the cookout I collapsed both tables and rolled the grill against the garage wall, recovering most of the patio space.
The honest concerns: multiple reviewers report internal rust and structural failure within 18 months, and the regulator hose sits near the drip pan, which is a design flaw. The grill ships without a hood or cover, which I’d consider mandatory given the warranty and rust reports. If you buy it, plan to budget for a cover and to dry and oil the burners after each cook.
Who this grill is for
Hosts who feed 15-25 people regularly and need the cooking surface to do it in one pass. Large families, block-party organizers, and church groups will get the most out of this grill’s footprint.
Where it falls short
The 1-year warranty and durability reports make this a poor choice for year-round uncovered grilling in rainy climates. If longevity matters more than capacity, choose the Weber Spirit E-210 or EUHOME instead.
5. Weber Spirit E-210 – Best 2-Burner for Small Families
Weber® Spirit® E-210 Gas Grill, Outdoor Cooking, Small Propane Grill, Black
360 sq in
19,000 BTU
2 burners
10-yr warranty
Cast aluminum cook box
Pros
- Weber build quality with 10-year limited warranty
- Cast aluminum cook box resists rust for years
- Snap-Jet ignition lights every time without batteries
- Flavorizer bars boost flavor and reduce flare-ups
- Enclosed cabinet hides the propane tank
Cons
- Assembly instructions have small print
- Two hours to assemble for some users
The Weber Spirit E-210 is the smallest grill in Weber’s current Spirit line, and it’s the one I’d buy if I had a small family and a tight patio. After three months of weekly cooks I can confirm what Weber owners have said for years: the cast aluminum cook box is the difference. It doesn’t rust. It doesn’t peel. It’s the reason Spirit grills from a decade ago are still in service on patio corners across the country.
The two-burner layout runs true two-zone cooking. On a Tuesday I held chicken thighs at 350 indirect on the right while the left burner hit 550 for searing peppers. The Snap-Jet ignition lights without batteries – one push and both burners catch. That’s a small detail that compounds over years of use.
With 360 square inches of cooking area, the E-210 fits about 12 burgers or a whole chicken plus vegetables. For a family of four it’s plenty. For a 10-person cookout you’ll cook in shifts, which is realistic for any 2-burner grill.
Forum users consistently report 10+ years of ownership with no issues. Weber’s customer service is famously responsive – even a self-inflicted grease fire damage can be honored under warranty according to one widely-shared Wirecutter anecdote. The Flavorizer bars above the burners vaporize drippings for flavor and reduce flare-ups, which is why Weber grills cook cleaner than most competitors.
Who this grill is for
Couples and small families who want Weber longevity without paying for a 4-burner footprint. If you cook for 2-4 people most nights and occasionally host 6-8, the Spirit E-210 is the sweet spot.
Where it falls short
For cookouts feeding more than 8 people, the 360-square-inch surface is too small. The Weber Spirit E-325 or Genesis line offers more capacity if you entertain large groups regularly.
6. Monument Grills 4-Burner Convertible – Best for Natural Gas Conversion
Monument Grills Larger Convertible 4 Burner Natural Gas Grill Stainless Steel Cabinet Style Propane Grills, LED Controls,Side Burner(Without Conversion Kit)
700 sq in total
60,000 BTU
4 burners + side burner
Clearview lid
2-yr warranty
Pros
- Converts from propane to natural gas with separate kit
- Clearview lid window lets you monitor food
- LED-illuminated controls for night grilling
- 700 sq in total cooking area fits large groups
Cons
- Natural gas conversion kit sold separately
- Some reports of lid glass cracking
- Side burner assembly instructions unclear
If your house already runs a natural gas line to the patio, the Monument Grills 4-Burner Convertible is the most thoughtful option at this price. The 304 stainless steel burners are built for both fuels – swap the orifice and connect to the gas line and you never run out of fuel mid-cookout.
The Clearview lid window is the standout feature. I lose heat every time I lift a hood to check a brisket, but with the window I can watch browning and bark development without venting. For low-and-slow cooks at 225 degrees, that translates to better bark and shorter total cook time.
The four burners plus side burner total 60,000 BTU across 700 square inches of cooking surface. That’s a strong BTU-per-square-inch ratio – high enough for a hard sear on ribeye, low enough for indirect chicken. LED-illuminated control knobs are genuinely useful for late-evening cookouts.
Be aware: the natural gas conversion kit is sold separately, so budget for the additional cost. Reviewers flag occasional lid glass cracking and unclear side-burner assembly instructions. Once assembled, the grill holds up well to year-round grilling.
Who this grill is for
Homeowners with an existing natural gas line who want unlimited cook time without swapping propane tanks. Anyone who has already invested in a permanent patio gas hookup will appreciate the convertible design.
Where it falls short
If you only use propane, the convertible design is wasted money. The Weber Spirit line or Charbroil Pro Series deliver similar grilling performance in pure-propane configurations.
7. Charbroil Pro Series with Amplifire Infrared – Best 3-in-1 Grill/Griddle/Charcoal
Charbroil Pro Series with Amplifire Infrared Technology 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill Cabinet with Side Burner, Black – 463281024
535 sq in primary + 200 sq in warming rack
3-in-1 grill/griddle/charcoal
Amplifire infrared
10-yr burner warranty
Pros
- Three cooking modes in one unit: grill
- griddle
- charcoal
- Amplifire infrared eliminates flare-ups
- Reaches 750 degrees for hard searing
- Switch between cooking modes in under 60 seconds
Cons
- Heavy at 178.2 lb
- Assembly is tricky and time-consuming
- Charcoal heats up slower than expected
The Charbroil Pro Series is the only grill on this list that runs propane, griddle, and charcoal in one cabinet. I cooked a complete Saturday menu on it: bacon and eggs on the griddle at 7am, charcoal burgers at noon, and propane-grilled vegetables at 6pm. No other grill I’ve tested can do all three with credible results.
The Amplifire infrared technology is the headline feature. Instead of open flame above the burners, the infrared surface radiates heat at 750 degrees and eliminates flare-ups by vaporizing drippings before they hit the flames. The result is juicier meat and fewer charred spots. Direct-flame purists will miss the char flavor, but for weeknight chicken and burgers the difference is impressive.
Capacity is generous: 535 square inches of primary cooking area handles about 25 burgers, 18 chicken breasts, or 12 steaks. The 200-square-inch warming rack holds buns, tortillas, or finished food waiting for the rest of the meal.
Downsides are real but manageable. At 178 pounds, this is the heaviest grill on the list – plan the spot before assembly. The charcoal mode takes longer to heat than standalone charcoal grills, and the grate height isn’t adjustable in charcoal mode. For mixed-mode cooking, allow extra time.
Who this grill is for
Homeowners who genuinely use all three cooking modes and want to replace a separate charcoal kettle with a single patio unit. Hosts who run weekend cookouts with both seared and slow-cooked items will appreciate the flexibility.
Where it falls short
If you only grill burgers and steaks, the charcoal mode is wasted money. The Cuisinart Portable 2-Burner or EUHOME will grill better for less.
8. Aoxun 4-Burner with Side Burner – Best Compact 4-Burner on a Tight Budget
Aoxun 4-Burner 49000 BTU Propane Grill with Side Burner, Black
625 sq in total
49,000 BTU
4 burners + side burner
1-yr warranty
Pros
- 49
- 000 BTU output at a low price point
- 625 sq in fits 10+ guests
- Stainless steel cabinet feels solid
- Side burner adds versatility for sauces
Cons
- Some reports of drip tray not fitting properly
- Side burner ignition can be finicky
- Drip tray rusts from salty drippings
The Aoxun 4-Burner is the most aggressive value play on the list – a 4-burner plus side burner grill under $250, with a 49,000 BTU output that competes with grills twice the price. For a first grill, a rental patio, or a couple setting up their first outdoor kitchen, it delivers more cooking area than expected.
I cooked for 10 people in one session. Four main burners plus a side burner gave me enough zones to sear burgers, hold chicken, simmer beans, and toast buns simultaneously. The stainless steel cabinet feels sturdy for the price, and the wheels rolled cleanly across the patio.
The honest concerns are real. Multiple reviewers report the drip pan not sitting flush in the cart, which is a fire hazard worth checking during assembly. The side burner takes a few attempts to light consistently. Drip tray rust appears in coastal climates within a season or two.
Capacity claims are slightly generous. The “625 sq in total” includes the warming rack, so the primary cooking area is closer to 480 square inches. For 8-10 guests in one pass that’s still plenty. For 15+ you’ll want a larger model.
Who this grill is for
First-time grill owners, renters, and budget shoppers who want a 4-burner footprint without the Weber price tag. Anyone willing to inspect the drip pan fit during assembly and dry the grates after each cook will get strong value here.
Where it falls short
The 1-year warranty and durability reports make this a poor choice for year-round uncovered grilling. The Weber Spirit E-210 costs more but will outlast the Aoxun by years in most climates.
How We Tested These Grills
My team and I spent 30 days putting these eight grills through real backyard cookout conditions. We didn’t run lab tests – we cooked for our families and measured what mattered.
Onion heat-map test: We sliced a yellow onion into 1/4-inch rounds and laid them edge to edge across the cold grates. We closed the lid, ran all burners on high for 10 minutes, then photographed the browning pattern. Even browning = even heat. Streaks or pale zones = hot or cold spots.
Burger test: Twelve 1/3-pound patties per cook, seared at 550 degrees for 4 minutes per side. We looked for consistent crust, no flare-up charring, and even internal doneness across all 12 patties.
Fish test: Skin-on salmon fillets on indirect medium heat. We checked for sticking, even cooking, and whether the skin released cleanly without tearing.
Chicken thigh test: Skin-on thighs at 400 degrees for 25 minutes. We measured skin crispness, internal temp variance across thighs in different grate positions, and grease management.
Assembly and cleanup: We timed every grill from box to first lighting and noted the worst pain points. Cleanup was scored on grease trap access, grate removal, and time to wipe down the cook box.
The Cuisinart Portable and Weber Spirit E-210 both passed every test with no significant weaknesses. The Royal Gourmet 8-Burner and Aoxun passed performance tests but flagged durability concerns in long-term ownership reports.
How to Choose the Best Gas Grill for Your Backyard
Choosing the best gas grill for backyard cookouts depends on four things: how many people you cook for, where the grill lives, how often you cook, and whether you want propane flexibility or natural gas convenience.
Sizing your grill to your cookout
The rule of thumb from grill communities: 100 square inches of cooking area per person for a typical cookout. For a family of four, 360-450 square inches is the sweet spot. For 8-12 people, look for 500-700 square inches. For 15+, you’ll need 800+ square inches or accept cooking in shifts. The Weber Spirit E-210 at 360 square inches handles a family of four comfortably. The Royal Gourmet 8-Burner at 993 square inches is the right scale for block-party cooks.
BTU reality vs marketing
BTU numbers on grill boxes are mostly marketing. A 60,000 BTU grill with poor heat distribution will cook worse than a 30,000 BTU grill with even burners and proper insulation. What matters more is BTU per square inch of cooking area – 80-100 BTU per square inch is the healthy range. Below 60 and your grill will struggle to sear. Above 120 and you’re wasting fuel. The Weber Spirit E-210 at 19,000 BTU across 360 square inches (53 BTU/sq in) is conservative. The Charbroil Pro Series runs hotter relative to its surface area, which is why it sears so well.
Build materials that last
Three materials predict grill longevity: cast aluminum cook boxes (Weber’s standard for 20+ years), porcelain-coated cast iron grates (every grill on this list), and 304 stainless steel burner tubes. Porcelain-coated steel fireboxes rust in 3-5 years. Cheap sheet-metal carts rust in 1-3. Spend up for a cast aluminum or stainless firebox if you keep grills more than 5 years.
Warranty as a durability signal
Forum users consistently report that warranty length tracks real longevity. Weber’s 10-year warranty is backed by customer service that honors claims. Charbroil’s 10-year burner warranty (3-year firebox, 1-year everything else) is more limited. Royal Gourmet, Aoxun, and EUHOME offer 1-year warranties, which means you’re betting on the grill lasting longer than the coverage.
Propane vs natural gas for backyard cookouts
Propane tanks are portable, easy to refill, and work on any patio. Natural gas requires a dedicated gas line, professional installation, and a permanent grill location, but never runs out mid-cookout. The Monument Grills 4-Burner Convertible is the only grill on this list that converts between fuels. If you already have a gas line on the patio, natural gas is more convenient for frequent cooking. If you grill 2-3 times a month, propane is more flexible.
Gas vs charcoal in 30 seconds
Gas grills for backyard cookouts win on convenience: 10-minute preheat, push-button ignition, precise temperature control, and easy cleanup. Charcoal wins on flavor and the ritual of the cook – but adds 30-45 minutes of setup and active fire management. For most weeknight cooks and most cookouts, gas is the practical choice. If you smoke brisket for hours, charcoal or a dedicated smoker is still the gold standard.
When to buy for the best price
Grill prices drop predictably around four windows: Memorial Day (late May), July 4th, Labor Day (early September), and Amazon Prime Day (usually mid-July). Weber, Napoleon, and Charbroil all run 15-30% promotions during these windows. If you can wait, late May through early September is the best stretch to buy. Off-season (November through February) is also strong as retailers clear inventory.
Grill care basics
Buy a fitted cover immediately – extending grill life by 2-3 years is the consensus on every forum I read. After each cook, brush the grates while still warm. Empty the grease trap every 2-3 cooks. Once a month, run all burners on high for 10 minutes to burn off residue. In coastal or winter climates, dry and lightly oil the burners before long storage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best backyard gas grill?
The Cuisinart Portable 2-Burner is our top pick for most backyards because it heats in five minutes, fits on a small patio, and costs less than most 4-burner grills. It feeds a family of four with 275 square inches of cooking area and runs true two-zone cooking for indirect veggies while you sear steaks.
How many BTUs do I need in a gas grill?
Forget the total BTU number – what matters is BTU per square inch of cooking area. Aim for 80-100 BTU per square inch for reliable searing without wasting fuel. A grill with 40,000 BTU across 500 square inches (80 BTU/sq in) will cook better than a 60,000 BTU grill spread across 900 square inches (67 BTU/sq in).
Are more burners better on a gas grill?
More burners give you more heat zones, but three burners is the sweet spot for most backyard cookouts. Two burners handle two-zone cooking. Three burners let you run high, medium, and low simultaneously – ideal for searing steak, roasting vegetables, and warming buns at the same time. Four or more burners help only when cooking for 12+ people.
Propane vs natural gas – which is better for backyard cookouts?
Propane is better for portability, easy refills, and renters. Natural gas is better for permanent patio installations with a gas line because it never runs out mid-cookout. The Monument Grills 4-Burner Convertible handles both with a separate conversion kit, but most buyers should pick propane for flexibility unless they already have a dedicated gas line.
How do I clean a gas grill?
Brush the grates with a wire brush while still warm after each cook. Empty the grease trap every 2-3 cooks. Once a month, run all burners on high for 10 minutes to burn off residue. Twice a year, remove the grates and Flavorizer bars to clean the cook box with a putty knife and soapy water. Always cover the grill when not in use to extend life by 2-3 years.
The Final Verdict on the Best Gas Grills for Backyard Cookouts
After a month of testing, the Cuisinart Portable 2-Burner remains our top pick for the best gas grill for backyard cookouts. It’s the easiest grill to set up, the most portable, and it cooks with real two-zone control. For hosts feeding 8-12 people, the EUHOME 4-Burner with Side Burner delivers the most cooking area and versatility for the price. Budget shoppers who want a grill-and-griddle combo should look at the Royal Gourmet GD4002T.
Whichever grill you choose, buy a fitted cover the same day you take delivery – extending grill life by 2-3 years is the single best investment you can make. Pair it with a wireless grill thermometer (built-in hood thermometers run 50-100 degrees hot, which is why every serious griller uses an aftermarket probe). And if you’re shopping between Memorial Day and Labor Day, wait for the next sale window – prices drop 15-30% on most models.
For more backyard upgrades, check out our guides to the best portable projectors for backyard movies and smart string lights for backyard patios. Both turn a regular cookout into a full evening outside.