When I first decided to become a carnivore, It was a hustle getting a simple-to-use grill; I invested my time and effort to find the perfect beginner-friendly grill for my needs.
Over the years, I have experimented with various grill brands and models, and my determination has been able to pay.
After spending years trying out many Weber grills, I can tell the difference in cooking areas, BTUs, and ease of use, which grilling beginners need.
Here are the eight best grills any beginner should consider.
Weber
Z Grills
Char-Broil8 Best Grills for Beginners
1 - Weber Spirit II E-210 Gas Grill (Liquid Propane)
Weber Spirit II is my top choice because of its versatility. It has an electronic crossover ignition system, so you get a customizable BBQ session.
You can grill for a large number of people with this gas grill. It has 450 square inches of cast iron grates so that you can cook meat, veggies, and fish together.
Spirit II has two stainless steel burners with 26,500 BTU. This ensures the grill heats and reaches a high temperature quickly.
Thanks to the side shelves, you can hold plates and utensils. It’s great for BBQ beginners as it has plenty of accessories, such as a fuel gauge, tool hooks, and a grilling guide.
Finally, I loved how easy it is to start this grill. You turn on the burners using a push-start piezo igniter. Choose the temperature setting you want, and the built-in lid thermometer lets you know when to start grilling.
- A built-in thermometer shows the temperature
- Two burners for even heat distribution
- Easy to use
- Has a warming rack
- You’ll need a smoker box for smoke-flavored food
Quick Facts:
- Dimensions : 57 x 48 x 26 in
- Weight : 101 lbs
- Cooking space : square inches
- BTU : 26,500
- Fuel : gas
2 - Z GRILLS-450A
Z Grills 450A is a barrel-shaped pellet grill. It’s fueled by hardwood pellets, and its main advantage is it heats quickly, so you get delicious wood and smoke-flavored food in a blink.
450A can smoke, roast, barbecue, braise, and bake, so you’ll have excellent versatility. It has a large cooking area— 700square inches over two cooking areas and 25,000 BTUs of power.
Speaking of beginner-friendliness, I found this grill super-easy to control due to its internal temperature control. The PID keeps the temperature stable in all weather conditions, and you don’t have to monitor the pellet grill constantly.
It’s made of stainless steel and covered in a high-temperature powder coat, so it’s durable and easy to clean.
- Easy to ignite and use
- Comes with meat probes
- Provides a good smoky flavor
- Can’t sear steaks
Quick Facts:
- Dimensions : 45 × 28 × 49
- Weight : 84 lbs
- Cooking space : 459 square inches
- BTU : 25,000
- Fuel : pellet
3 - Char-Broil 2-Burner Gas Grill
The next best grill for beginners is Char-Broil. It has 300 square inches of cooking capacity, which is enough for 16 burgers, 15 chicken breasts, or 8 steaks.
This is a powerful gas grill that reaches 20,000 BTU. It’s a great grill for beginners because it features SureFire electronic ignition. You can start this BBQ grill with a push of a button.
Char-Broil grill is known for its innovative RU-Infrared technology, which is ideal for even cooking. The application also prevents flare-ups, offering convenience for anyone just starting their grilling journey.
The infrared technology is essentially a metal plate located below the cooking grates, which traps the juices as the food cooks. The juices from the plate infuse the food with more flavor, and the plate prevents flare-ups.
I like that the assembly is a breeze as Char-Broil gas grills have keyhole slots. All I needed was common hardware to assemble the grill.
Finally, you can easily switch from liquid propane to natural gas by getting a conversion kit.
- Easy start-up
- Foldable for easy storage
- Side shelves provide extra workspace
- The flames don’t touch the food, so there’s no charred taste
Quick Facts:
- Dimensions : 22.5 x 47.2 x 46.8
- Weight : 75.7 lbs
- Cooking space : 325 square inches
- BTU : 20,000
- Fuel : gas
4 - Original Weber Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill 22"
If you want a grill with a compact design, Weber Original Kettle is a great choice. It has 363 square inches of cooking capacity, which can hold up to 13 burgers.
This charcoal grill has a 22-inch steel plated grate that you can use for meats, fish, or vegetables. The lid and bowl are porcelain-enameled, so they have excellent heat retention and are rust-proof.
My favorite part was the lid hook because I could place the lid on the ground while grilling. Moreover, the lid has a nylon handle with a heat shield, so it’s extremely durable, and you don’t have to worry about injuries.
The ash catcher provides easy cleanup. It holds enough debris for a few grilling sessions, so you don’t have to empty it too often.
- Hinged grate allows easy charcoal restocking
- Compact design
- Stay-cool handle
- Small under-grill storage
Quick Facts:
- Dimensions : 39.5 x 22.5 x 27 in
- Weight : 32.3 lbs
- Cooking space : 363 square inches
- BTU : 40,000
- Fuel : charcoal grill
5 - Pit Boss Mahogany Series 440 Wood Pellet Grill
Pit Boss Mahagony 440 is a pellet grill. It’s a good option for beginners because it has digital temperature control that makes sure the pellets burn evenly. This also ensures you have consistent grill and smoke temperatures.
By comparing the Pit Boss Mahogany Series 440 with its counterparts, I can confidently say that its durable porcelain-coated grates are easy-to clean and built to last longer. Moreover, the 518 square inches cooking capacity fits up to 19 burgers, which is a good choice for large feasts.
I liked that this is a high-tech pellet grill. It has WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity, which means you can connect the grill to your smartphone. There’s no need to hover over the grill, but you can remotely set and adjust the temperature from your smart device.
Finally, you can smoke, bake, braise, roast, char-grill, sear, and braise on this pellet grill, which is excellent versatility.
- Side shelf and tool hooks provide more prep space
- Comes with a steel bucket for grease management
- Hardwood pellets give food a smoky flavor
- Only two wheels
Quick Facts:
- Dimensions : 50.2 x 24 x 39.8 in
- Weight : 83.3 lbs
- Cooking space : 518 square inches
- BTU : 40,000
- Fuel : pellet grill
6 - Char-Griller E16620 Akorn Kamado Charcoal Grill
A kamado grill is a great choice if you want a grill that can cook meat and also bake pizza. Char-Griller Akorn Kamado has both high-heat grilling and low and slow cooking, so this is a grill and smoker two-in-one.
If you’re seeking a tool that surpasses traditional grills, a kamado grill stands as an exceptional choice. I delight in the fusion of flavors, which I can achieve through diverse cooking techniques, so I find the kamado's prowess in meat preparation and pizza baking ideal for versatility.
Considering this is a compact grill, it has ample cooking area — 447 square inches, and it fits up to 27 burgers.
I liked that Akorn kamado is heavily insulated. It has a triple-walled insulated design, which means you’ll use less fuel than other models. It also means it can maintain the cooking temperature easily.
Finally, it has cast iron grates that are easy to clean and 8 in locking caster wheels, so it’s easy to move this grill around.
- Plenty of grilling space
- Top-notch heat insulation
- Foldable side shelves and storage hooks
- It’s difficult to add fuel
Quick Facts:
- Dimensions : 45 x 31 x 47 in
- Weight : 97 lbs
- Cooking space : 447 square inches
- BTU : 90,000
- Fuel : charcoal grill
7 - Kamado Joe Classic Joe II
Kamado Joe Classic Joe II has thick ceramic walls which provide excellent heat retention. Moreover, this means the grill can withstand temperatures up to 750 degrees.
You get plenty of accessories with this grill: a built-in thermometer, side shelves, a pull-out tray, and an ash-removal tool. The accessories make the use and the cleanup easy.
A two-tier grill grate lets you control the grilling. Same as other charcoal grills, you can use it to smoke at low temperatures or grill at high ones.
My favorite part was the seal around the lid which allowed me to soft close the charcoal grill. Also, the vent markings provide good temperature control and smoke levels.
- A two-tier cooking system provides flexibility
- Dome can be lifted with one finger
- Comes with a grill cover
- Has a learning curve
Quick Facts:
- Dimensions : 46.5 x 48 x 28 in
- Weight : 232 lbs
- Cooking space : up to 660 square inches
- BTU : 8,000
- Fuel : charcoal grill
8 - Napoleon LEX 485 Built-In Grill
If you already have some barbecuing experience and want to take your skills to the next level, Napoleon LEX 485 is for you.
This is a powerful built-in grill thanks to three 16,000 BTU burners. I like its infrared burners, which give my meat a perfect sear.
This gas grill has a backlit area, which you’ll love when grilling at night. It also comes with a smoker tube and a rotisserie kit. They are stainless steel, which makes them durable and resistant to rust.
“Of all the stainless steel varieties, 304 is what you’ll most commonly see used throughout the food and beverage industry. 304 stainless steel is not prone to oxidization or corrosion.” Brian Rothstein, Director of Sales at Mead Metals
LEX 485 has a charcoal tray or smoker tube when you want authentic smoke-flavored food. Finally, there’s a temperature gauge that accurately reads the temperature at all times.
- Backlit controls
- Large cooking capacity
- Easy ignition system
- You need a large outdoor area to fit this gas grill
Quick Facts:
- Dimensions : 29.7 x 21.5 x 7.5 in
- Weight : 92 lbs
- Cooking space : 675 square inches
- BTU : 16,000 for each burner
- Fuel : gas grill
Buyer’s Guide
Having worked with hundreds of individuals on their initial grilling endeavors, I cannot overlook the significance of considering certain specifications when purchasing a grill.
Here’s everything to keep in mind when choosing the best grill for a BBQ newbie.
1. Grill Type
The most important consideration is what kind of grill you want. The main types of grills are pellet, charcoal, electric, and gas grills.
Electric grills and gas grills are the easiest to use as they have the least cleanup. But you’ll have to buy a propane tank (and carry it with you if you decide to grill outside your backyard).
Pellet and charcoal grills require more cleanup because there’s a lot of ash, but they give you authentic smoke-infused flavor, which propane grills don’t.
“Smoking is done much more slowly than grilling, so less tender meats benefit from this method, and a natural smoke flavoring permeates the meat.” - Department of Food Safety and Inspection Service
Charcoal grills also give you excellent sear on the meat, but it takes a while to get them going — sometimes around 45 minutes.
In terms of price, a gas grill costs more upfront, but it’s cheaper to run. You only have to swap the propane tank when it’s empty.
Charcoal and pellet grills are more affordable (especially charcoal), but you need to buy briquets, wood pellets, or lighter fluid substitutes to start the BBQ grill each time.
Finally, a gas or electric grill is easier to use. Pellet and charcoal have a higher learning curve.
Also Read: Fuego Grill Review
2. BTUs
BTU stands for British Thermal Unit. For gas grills, this indicates the gas output and how much heat a grill can create.
An important aspect of grill selection is the interplay between burner functionality and BTU. I've learned to consider these features when determining the price of a perfect grill. So ensure your culinary aspirations match your budget.
My advice is to choose a grill with a large temperature control instead of a high BTU. Best models have burners that can go as high as 700 degrees or even more (for example, Kamado Joe Classic Joe II can go up to 750 degrees).
3. Burners
You should also think about your cooking preferences. For example, do you want to bake a pizza and grill hot dogs at the same time? You should go for a grill with several burners. More burners give you better temperature control and even cooking.
Apart from quantity, check burner shape and material. H-style burners are popular because they can spread the heat evenly.
Stainless steel burners are durable and can last longer than other materials.
Also Read: Best 4-Burner Propane Grill
4. Grill Size
From my personal experience, it’s vital to consider space and culinary needs when deciding the right grill size.
Choose a grill size based on how much food you cook and how much space you really have. The more burners a grill has, the larger it’ll be, which means the more room you need to store it.
A good rule to follow is to have about 100 square inches per person in your family, which means 400 square inches if you’re a family of four. In this case, Sprint II is a good choice. If you entertain a lot of people often, go for a grill with a larger cooking surface. For example, Napoleon has over 600 square inches.
Also, think about where you’ll store your grill and how much space you have. Can you keep it on the patio or in the yard? If not, consider a portable grill. They are much smaller but can still create delicious food.
Overall, get a grill that’s appropriate for the space you have and the number of people you feed.
5. Build Quality
Grills can be made from various materials. You want to get one made from materials safe for food contact and durable.
Poor-quality grills quickly succumb to high temperatures, moisture, grease, and rust.
Cast iron is extremely durable but also extremely heavy. It’s a good heat conductor and heats up fast. Stainless steel is easy to clean and can withstand harsh weather conditions. Enameled porcelain won’t get scratched, and you can use it in high temperatures.
A good tip is to check the warranty. The higher the warranty, the better the grill quality.
6. Features and Accessories
Accessories may not seem important, but they make the grilling experience smoother and easier, especially if you’re a beginner.
Some accessories to look for include the following:
- Side shelves for storing utensils and plates
- Shelves underneath the grill for storage
- Sturdy wheels for moving the grill
- Tank holders for a gas grill
- Led lights
- Digital screens
Also, think about how you want to start the grill. I recommend going for a grill with an automatic starter and a removable upper cooking grate. This is ideal for indirect cooking (buns, veggies, and large meat cuts).
Overall, think about how you’ll use your grill the most, and then decide on the features.
7. Maintenance
The last thing to consider is maintenance. Nobody wants a long and difficult cleanup process.
Generally, gas and electric grills have an easier cleanup than charcoal and pellet because there’s no ash. Moreover, a gas grill can last up to 15 years with proper maintenance and cleanup [1].
However, this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t consider pellets and charcoal. If you love smoke-flavored food, get a pellet or charcoal grill that has ash catchers (for example, Weber Original Kettle) or a grease trap (for example, Pit Boss Mahogany 440).
Overall, no matter if you get an electric grill, pellet, or gas, make sure it’s easy to clean to save time in the long run.
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FAQs
What Kind of Grill is Best for Beginners?
A gas, pellet, or electric grill is best for beginners. They are easy to start and operate. A charcoal grill gives the best smoky flavor, but it’s difficult to ignite and takes a long time to heat up.
What is the Easiest Outdoor Grill to Use?
The easiest outdoor grill to use is a pellet grill. It’s efficient and makes rich smoke-flavored food.
Are Cheap Grills Worth It?
No, cheap grills aren’t worth it. Their burners flare up easily, don’t distribute the heat evenly, and give little control over heat.
What’s the Best Grill for You?
The best grill for you is one that is versatile, user-friendly, and has a consistent temperature control mechanism.
For this reason, my vote for the best grill for beginners goes to Weber Spirit II. It has the best versatility, and you can cook everything from meat to fish and vegetables.
Spirit II has square inches of cooking surface, which is enough for a family of four. This is a powerful grill thanks to 26,500 BTUs. It heats quickly and can maintain high temperatures easily.
Check it out, and get an easy-to-use grill for beginners that makes delicious food.
Weber Spirit II E-210 Gas Grill (Liquid Propane)
Our #1 Recommendation
- A built-in thermometer shows the temperature
- Two burners for even heat distribution
- Easy to use
- Has a warming rack
- Get the BEST PRICE until the end of September
References:
- https://www.watsons.com/how-long-do-gas-grills-last
