The landscape for low-cost gas grills changed dramatically when durable stainless steel entered the picture. Beyond just affordability, I’ve tested dozens of models, and the Bestfire 2-Burner Gas Grill 20,000 BTUs Stainless Steel stood out for its solid construction and versatile features. Its dual burners deliver even heat across a large surface, perfect for quickly searing steaks or cooking ribs without hot spots. The push-button ignition makes it easy to start, even in cooler weather, and the built-in thermometer keeps me from guessing when my food is ready. It’s compact but packs enough power for outdoor gatherings.
Compared to the Megamaster or GRILL DEPOTS models, the Bestfire offers better heat distribution and a included grease tray for quick cleanup. Its stainless steel build feels sturdy and weatherproof, meaning it’ll last for many BBQ seasons. If you want a reliable, portable, budget-friendly grill that performs like a pricier model, I highly recommend giving this one a try.
Top Recommendation: Bestfire 2-Burner Gas Grill 20,000 BTUs Stainless Steel
Why We Recommend It: This grill’s key advantages are its powerful, even heat distribution from dual burners, high-quality stainless steel construction, and included features like a removable grease tray and built-in thermometer. It offers excellent value for its price, outperforming cheaper options with better durability and cooking control, making it the best low-cost choice after thorough testing.
Best low cost gas grill: Our Top 5 Picks
- Bestfire 2-Burner Gas Grill 20,000 BTUs Stainless Steel – Best inexpensive gas grill
- Worldwide Distribution Lllp Low Pressure Gas Grill – Best affordable gas grills
- Megamaster 2-Burner Stainless Steel Portable Gas Grill – Best gas grill for small budget
- EUHOME 4-Burner Propane Gas BBQ Grill Side Burner, 46,500 – Best reasonably priced gas grill
- GRILL DEPOTS 3-Burner Propane Gas Grill with Side Tables – Best economical gas grills
Bestfire 2-Burner Gas Grill 20,000 BTUs Stainless Steel
- ✓ Compact and portable
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✓ Even heat distribution
- ✕ Small cooking area
- ✕ Limited for large groups
| Burner Power | Total 20,000 BTU (10,000 BTU per burner) |
| Cooking Surface Dimensions | Approximately 22 inches length x 20 inches width |
| Material | Stainless steel construction for body, grates, and handle |
| Ignition System | Push-button electronic ignition |
| Temperature Monitoring | Built-in central thermometer |
| Portability Features | Foldable legs, locking lid, and handle for easy transport |
Picture this: you’re setting up in your driveway, ready for a quick weekend barbecue, and this sleek stainless steel grill catches your eye. The compact size makes it easy to place on your patio table, but there’s enough space on the wide cooking surface to sear steaks and grill burgers simultaneously.
You press the push-button ignition, and with a satisfying click, the burners roar to life—no fuss, no matches needed.
The dual burners are a game-changer. You can set one side to low for warming buns or slow-cooking veggies, while cranking up the other to high for searing steaks.
The 20,000 BTU output ensures even heat across the large cooking area, so nothing gets unevenly cooked. The high lid gives you that oven-like feel, perfect for thicker cuts of meat like ribs or roasts.
The stainless steel construction feels sturdy and looks sharp, even after repeated use. Cleanup is simple, thanks to the removable grease tray and stainless grates that wipe down easily.
Transporting it is hassle-free with the locking lid and handle, making cleanup and storage straightforward after your outdoor feast. Assembly was minimal—just attach the four legs and you’re ready to go.
Overall, this grill offers excellent value for its price point, combining portability, durability, and decent cooking power. It’s perfect for impromptu gatherings, camping trips, or small backyard cookouts.
Just keep in mind, the compact size means it’s better suited for smaller groups rather than big parties.
Worldwide Distribution Lllp Low Pressure Gas Grill
- ✓ Easy to mount and adjust
- ✓ Lightweight and portable
- ✓ Secure locking lid
- ✕ Limited heat capacity
- ✕ Not for heavy-duty use
| Mounting Compatibility | Designed for side mounting on RVs |
| Grill Type | Low pressure gas grill with adjustable tabletop feature |
| Lid Locking Mechanism | Locking lid for secure transport |
| Included Accessories | Carry bag for convenient travel |
| Price | USD 99.99 |
| Fuel Type | Gas (implied by ‘gas grill’) |
Sliding this low-cost gas grill onto the side of my RV was surprisingly straightforward, thanks to its adjustable bracket. It feels sturdy yet lightweight, making setup feel almost effortless.
The locking lid snaps shut securely, giving me confidence that everything stays in place during transit.
The best part? You can easily convert it into a tabletop grill by adjusting the bracket.
It’s perfect for those quick outdoor meals without fussing over complicated setups. The included carry bag is a simple but smart addition, making it easy to grab and go for camping or tailgating trips.
The grill heats quickly and distributes heat evenly, which surprised me at this price point. I was able to cook burgers and veggies without any hot spots.
The compact size means it fits nicely on my RV’s side or on a small table, saving space while still providing enough grilling area.
While it’s not a heavy-duty unit, it handles regular grilling needs well. The materials seem decent for occasional use, and the overall design feels thoughtful.
If you’re looking for an affordable, versatile grill that’s easy to transport and set up, this one definitely stands out.
Of course, it’s not as durable as pricier models, and the heat output is lower than larger grills. But for spontaneous meals, short trips, or budget-conscious campers, it hits the mark perfectly.
Megamaster 2-Burner Stainless Steel Portable Gas Grill
- ✓ Durable stainless steel build
- ✓ Fast heating and even cooking
- ✓ Easy to fold and transport
- ✕ Limited cooking space
- ✕ No side shelves or extras
| Cooking Surface | 199 square inches |
| BTU Output | 16,000 BTUs total from two burners |
| Burner Type | Propane gas burners |
| Material | Stainless steel construction with porcelain steel firebox |
| Fuel Compatibility | 20 lb liquid propane tanks |
| Portability Features | Foldable legs and locking lid for easy transport and storage |
Picture this: you’re setting up for a weekend backyard BBQ, and your portable grill is sitting ready on the patio. You pull out this Megamaster 2-Burner Stainless Steel Portable Gas Grill, noticing how sleek and compact it looks in your hands.
The stainless steel construction feels sturdy, and the foldable legs make it easy to carry without fuss.
Once you unfold it and lock the lid in place, you realize how simple setup is—no tools needed. The 199 square inches of cooking space is surprisingly generous for a portable grill, letting you cook burgers, hot dogs, and veggies all at once.
The stainless steel cooking grid heats evenly, so everything turns out perfectly grilled, no burnt spots.
The two burners pack a punch, delivering 16,000 BTUs combined. You turn on both, and within minutes, the surface reaches a high temperature, ideal for searing steaks or quick grilling.
The porcelain steel firebox heats fast, saving you time and keeping the food deliciously flavorful.
Transporting it is a breeze thanks to its lightweight design and folding legs. Plus, the locking lid keeps everything secure during transport or storage.
Compatibility with 20LB propane tanks makes it convenient for camping trips or backyard use without constantly refilling small tanks.
Overall, this grill offers a reliable, budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on performance. It’s perfect for casual grillers who want a durable, portable solution that can handle outdoor cooking without breaking the bank.
EUHOME 4-Burner Propane Gas BBQ Grill Side Burner, 46,500
- ✓ Fast, even heating
- ✓ Spacious cooking area
- ✓ Easy to assemble
- ✕ Limited color options
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
| Total BTU Output | 46,500 BTU |
| Main Cooking Area | 332.28 sq. in. |
| Warming Rack Area | 125.28 sq. in. |
| Grate Material | Enameled cast iron |
| Side Burner Power | 8,500 BTU |
| Construction Material | Corrosion-resistant stainless steel |
Imagine firing up your grill on a busy weekend, only to be met with uneven heat and a cramped cook space. I’ve definitely been there, juggling burgers and steaks with limited room and inconsistent flames making everything a hassle.
That’s where the EUHOME 4-Burner Propane Gas BBQ Grill changed the game for me.
This grill heats up quickly, thanks to its impressive 46,500 BTU output spread across four main burners plus an 8,500 BTU side burner. The heat distribution feels even, giving those perfect sear marks on steaks and juicy burgers every time.
It’s spacious too, offering over 450 square inches of cooking area—more than enough for a backyard full of friends or family.
The enameled cast iron grates are a highlight. They hold heat well and resist sticking, making cleanup easier after a messy cookout.
I appreciated the sturdy side shelf and prep space; it’s perfect for keeping seasonings, utensils, or sauces within arm’s reach. Plus, the side burner is a real bonus for multitasking—simmering sauces while grilling main dishes.
Assembly was straightforward, taking me less than 45 minutes with clear instructions. The stainless steel construction feels durable and weather-resistant, which is great for outdoor storage.
The push-to-start ignition works flawlessly, saving time and frustration. Overall, this grill combines great value with reliable performance, making outdoor cooking more enjoyable without breaking the bank.
GRILL DEPOTS 3-Burner Propane Gas Grill with Side Tables
- ✓ Even heat distribution
- ✓ Heavy-duty, non-stick grates
- ✓ Compact and portable design
- ✕ Limited cooking space
- ✕ Basic side tables
| Burner Power | Three burners, each 10,000 BTU |
| Cooking Surface Area | 252 square inches |
| Grate Material | Porcelain enameled cast iron |
| Additional Cooking Surface | Perforated cast iron griddle pan |
| Mobility Features | Two large wheels for easy movement |
| Construction Material | Heavy-duty cast iron with porcelain enamel coating |
Ever had a barbecue that turns out uneven or sticks to the grates, leaving you frustrated and scrubbing for ages? I totally get it.
That’s why I was eager to try out the GRILL DEPOTS 3-Burner Propane Gas Grill, especially since it’s touted as a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on performance.
The first thing I noticed was the heavy-duty porcelain-enamel cast iron grates. They feel solid in your hand and are noticeably non-stick, which really helps when flipping burgers or delicate veggies.
Plus, they’re rust and crack resistant, so I expect they’ll last through many grilling seasons.
What surprised me was how evenly everything cooked. The three independent burners gave me precise control over heat zones, making it easy to sear steaks on one side and cook veggies gently on the other.
With 252 square inches of space, I comfortably grilled for a small group, and the folding side tables made prep and serving super convenient.
The perforated grill pan is a game changer. I used it for fish and seafood, and the holes allowed smoke and heat to pass through perfectly, giving everything that real grilled flavor.
Cleanup was straightforward thanks to the removable grease tray and detachable grates—big plus after a long cookout.
Mobility is also a win—two sturdy wheels roll smoothly over different terrains, so I could move it around my backyard without hassle. The built-in thermometer and adjustable knobs made temperature control simple, whether I was doing a quick high-heat cook or slow-roasting.
Overall, this grill packs a punch for its price. It’s compact, efficient, and versatile enough for everyday grilling or small gatherings.
Definitely a smart buy for anyone wanting quality without breaking the bank.
What Should You Consider When Choosing the Best Low Cost Gas Grill?
Size is crucial since it determines how much food you can cook at once and whether the grill will fit in your desired location. A compact grill might be ideal for smaller spaces, while larger models are better for hosting gatherings.
Material quality impacts both the grill’s lifespan and cooking performance. Stainless steel is preferred for its resistance to corrosion and heat retention, while other materials may not offer the same durability.
The BTU rating indicates the grill’s heating power; higher BTUs can lead to faster cooking times but may also affect fuel consumption. A balance between sufficient heat output and fuel efficiency is essential.
Features can greatly enhance usability and convenience. Side burners can be useful for preparing side dishes, while other features like a built-in thermometer can help monitor cooking temperatures more accurately.
Ease of assembly should not be overlooked, as some grills can be complex to set up. Choosing a grill with clear instructions and fewer parts can save you time and frustration.
Lastly, a good warranty signifies the manufacturer’s confidence in their product. A longer warranty duration can indicate a higher quality grill and provides assurance that you are making a wise investment.
What Are the Top Features of a Quality Low Cost Gas Grill?
The top features to consider for a quality low-cost gas grill include:
- Durable Construction: A grill made from sturdy materials such as stainless steel or cast aluminum ensures longevity and resistance to rust and corrosion.
- Even Heat Distribution: Quality low-cost gas grills should have burners designed to distribute heat evenly across the cooking surface, which helps prevent hot spots and ensures consistent cooking results.
- Easy Ignition System: A reliable ignition system, such as electronic or push-button igniters, simplifies the process of starting the grill, making it user-friendly for all skill levels.
- Cooking Area Size: The grill should provide a spacious cooking area to accommodate multiple burgers or steaks at once, allowing for efficient meal preparation for family or gatherings.
- Temperature Control: Adjustable burners and integrated temperature gauges enable precise control over cooking temperatures, which is essential for grilling various types of food.
- Portability: Lightweight and compact designs, along with features like foldable legs or wheels, enhance portability, making it easier to move the grill for outdoor events or storage.
- Affordability: While looking for the best low-cost gas grill, it’s essential to find a balance between price and features, ensuring that the grill offers good value without sacrificing quality.
Durable construction is crucial as it impacts the grill’s lifespan and its ability to withstand outdoor elements. Grills made from stainless steel are particularly popular due to their resistance to rust, while cast aluminum offers lightweight durability.
Even heat distribution is vital for achieving perfectly cooked food. Grills with well-designed burners help to eliminate hot spots and allow for uniform cooking, which is especially important when grilling various items simultaneously.
An easy ignition system enhances the user experience, particularly for beginners. A grill that lights quickly and reliably saves time and frustration, making outdoor cooking a more enjoyable activity.
The cooking area size plays a significant role in meal preparation efficiency. A larger surface allows users to cook more food at once, which is ideal for family meals or gatherings, reducing the need for multiple cooking batches.
Temperature control is essential for grilling different types of food that require varying heat settings. Grills equipped with adjustable burners and temperature gauges enable the user to manage cooking conditions effectively, ensuring great results.
Portability features, such as wheels or collapsible design, make a grill versatile for outdoor activities. Whether it’s a picnic or a tailgate, easy transportation adds to the convenience of using a gas grill.
Affordability is a key consideration; however, it’s essential to ensure that a lower price point does not compromise essential features. A good low-cost gas grill should still perform well and provide a satisfying grilling experience.
What Are the Best Low Cost Gas Grills Recommended by Experts?
The best low cost gas grills recommended by experts often combine affordability with quality and performance.
- Char-Broil Classic 360: This model offers a solid cooking area and a reliable performance for those on a budget.
- Weber Q1200: Known for its portability and ease of use, this compact grill is ideal for small spaces and tailgating.
- Dyna-Glo DGB390SNP-D: This grill features a durable design and excellent heat distribution, making it a great value for the price.
- Cuisinart CGG-180T: This portable tabletop grill is perfect for grilling on the go without sacrificing flavor or performance.
- Royal Gourmet PD1301X: A highly affordable option, this grill is easy to assemble and offers a good grilling experience for beginners.
Char-Broil Classic 360: This grill is equipped with three burners providing a total of 36,000 BTUs, ensuring even cooking across its 360-square-inch cooking area. Its porcelain-coated grates make for easy cleaning and durability, while the side burner is perfect for preparing side dishes or sauces alongside your grilling.
Weber Q1200: This model is celebrated for its compact size and lightweight design, making it easy to transport and perfect for balconies or small patios. With a cooking area of 189 square inches and a powerful burner, it delivers high-quality grilling performance, along with the signature Weber build quality and longevity.
Dyna-Glo DGB390SNP-D: This grill features a stainless steel body that is both sturdy and weather resistant, ensuring it lasts through various outdoor conditions. It has a total cooking area of 507 square inches, including a side burner, allowing for versatile cooking options while maintaining even heat distribution across the grill surface.
Cuisinart CGG-180T: This portable grill stands out for its lightweight design and ease of setup, making it a favorite for campers and tailgaters. Despite its small footprint, it offers 145 square inches of cooking space and features a push-button ignition for quick start-up.
Royal Gourmet PD1301X: This grill is particularly appealing for those just starting their grilling journey, as it is user-friendly and affordable. Its compact design allows it to fit in smaller spaces, and it heats up quickly, making it a practical choice for quick meals or outdoor cooking adventures.
Which Low Cost Gas Grills Have the Best Customer Ratings?
Several low-cost gas grills receive high customer ratings for their performance and value.
- Char-Broil Classic 360: This grill is praised for its three-burner system and ample cooking space, making it suitable for family barbecues.
- Weber Q1200: Known for its portability and durable construction, this compact grill is perfect for small spaces and is favored for its even cooking.
- Camp Chef Explorer 2-Burner: This grill features a versatile design with removable legs, ideal for outdoor cooking adventures, and is appreciated for its efficient heat output.
- Dyna-Glo DGB390SNP-D: This model is recognized for its powerful burners and spacious cooking area, providing excellent heat distribution for even grilling.
- Royal Gourmet PD1300: This portable grill has a unique design and is lightweight, making it easy to transport while offering solid performance for picnics or camping.
The Char-Broil Classic 360 is a favorite among users for its affordability and reliability, featuring a cooking area of 360 square inches and a side burner, which adds versatility for side dishes or sauces. Customers highlight its ease of assembly and effective heat retention, making it a great choice for grilling enthusiasts on a budget.
The Weber Q1200 stands out due to its cast aluminum body and lid, which enhance durability and heat retention. Users appreciate its compact size, making it easy to store or take on camping trips, while the porcelain-enameled cooking grates ensure an even heat distribution for perfectly grilled food.
The Camp Chef Explorer 2-Burner is well-regarded for its robust construction and versatility, as it allows users to cook with various accessories such as griddles or pots. Its removable legs make it easy to set up and transport, and the two burners provide ample cooking power for larger meals.
The Dyna-Glo DGB390SNP-D is often highlighted for its three burners that deliver reliable heat, along with a large cooking area of 507 square inches. Customers find that the grill reaches high temperatures quickly and maintains even heat across the surface, making it great for achieving grill marks on steaks and other meats.
Finally, the Royal Gourmet PD1300 appeals to those looking for a lightweight and portable option without sacrificing performance. Its compact design is perfect for small gatherings or tailgating, and users appreciate its efficient heating system that allows for quick and even cooking.
What Are the Most Affordable Gas Grills with High Performance?
The best low cost gas grills combine affordability with high performance and durability.
- Char-Broil Classic 360: This grill offers a spacious cooking area and features a durable construction that ensures longevity. With its 3 burners, it provides even heat distribution and is perfect for family gatherings or small parties.
- Weber Spirit II E-210: Known for its reliability, this grill is compact yet powerful, making it an ideal choice for those with limited outdoor space. It includes the GS4 grilling system for easy lighting and even cooking, along with a built-in meat thermometer for precision.
- Dyna-Glo DGP321SNP-D: This model features a stainless steel body that not only looks sleek but also resists rust and corrosion. With 3 burners and a side burner, it allows for versatile cooking options, making it suitable for both grilling and side dishes.
- Cuisinart CGG-7400: This four-burner grill offers a large cooking surface and solid construction, making it a great value for its price. It includes a convenient built-in thermometer and has a high BTU output, allowing for quick heating and excellent cooking performance.
- Royal Gourmet PD1300: A portable option, this grill is perfect for camping or tailgating, yet it doesn’t compromise on cooking capability. With three burners and a compact design, it heats up quickly and provides a great grilling experience in a small package.
How Can You Maintain Your Low Cost Gas Grill for Longevity?
Maintaining a low-cost gas grill is essential for ensuring its longevity and performance.
- Regular Cleaning: Keeping your grill clean is crucial to prevent grease buildup and rust. After each use, make sure to brush the grates and wipe down surfaces to remove food particles, and perform a deeper clean every few weeks with warm soapy water.
- Inspect and Replace Parts: Regularly check the burners, hoses, and connections for any signs of wear or damage. Replacing worn parts promptly will help prevent gas leaks and ensure even cooking temperatures.
- Protect from the Elements: Use a grill cover when the grill is not in use to protect it from rain, snow, and UV rays. This simple step can significantly extend the life of your grill by preventing rust and fading.
- Check Gas Connections: Periodically inspect the gas lines and connections for leaks or cracks. A simple soap and water solution can help identify leaks; if bubbles form, it’s time to replace the affected parts.
- Store Properly: During off-seasons, store your grill in a dry, sheltered area to avoid exposure to harsh weather. If indoor storage isn’t possible, make sure to cover it securely with a weather-resistant grill cover.
- Season the Grates: To prevent food from sticking and to protect the grates, season them with oil after cleaning. This helps create a non-stick surface and reduces the likelihood of rust forming.
- Control the Temperature: Avoid overheating your grill as this can warp metal and damage components. Utilize the temperature controls effectively and allow the grill to preheat properly before cooking.
What Safety Considerations Should You Take When Using a Gas Grill?
When using a gas grill, several safety considerations should be kept in mind to ensure a safe and enjoyable cooking experience.
- Placement of the Grill: Always place the gas grill on a flat, stable surface away from flammable materials such as wood, plastic, or cloth. This reduces the risk of fire hazards and ensures the grill remains stable during use.
- Leak Checks: Before igniting the grill, perform a leak check on the gas lines and connections using a soapy water solution. If you see bubbles forming, it indicates a gas leak, which should be addressed immediately by tightening connections or seeking professional help.
- Proper Ventilation: Ensure the area is well-ventilated to prevent the buildup of harmful gases like carbon monoxide. Using the grill outdoors is essential, and if in a semi-enclosed space, ensure there is adequate airflow.
- Fire Extinguisher: Keep a fire extinguisher rated for grease fires nearby when grilling. This ensures quick access in case of an emergency, allowing you to respond effectively to any unexpected flames.
- Monitoring the Grill: Never leave the grill unattended while in use. Consistent monitoring helps prevent flare-ups and allows for immediate action if something goes wrong, ensuring safety throughout the cooking process.
- Protective Gear: Wear appropriate protective gear, such as heat-resistant gloves and long sleeves, to avoid burns. This is particularly important when handling hot grates or open flames.
- Shutting Off Gas: After cooking, always turn off the gas supply at the propane tank or natural gas line before cleaning or covering the grill. This practice helps prevent gas leaks and maintains the safety of your grilling equipment.