The 7 Best Gas Grills Under $500

March 24, 2023
Written by Kristy J. Norton

The best gas grill for this price range is the Weber Spirit II E-210. There is just so much to like about this grill - it is a compact grill that is made from tough materials and it grills like a dream, complete with excellent temperature control. As an added bonus, there are plenty of additional features to enjoy as well.

I have always used a wood pellet or charcoal grill for cookouts. So, when I moved to my first apartment and had to buy a gas grill, I felt a bit out of my depth, especially since I was on a budget. Luckily for me, one of my chef friends is a big fan of gas grills and helped me figure out how to find the right model at the perfect price point. So, I am here to pass this wisdom along!

In this post, I will outline the best gas grills under $500 and offer you some advice on how to shop for the perfect grill for you!

best gas grills under 500

A Comparison: Best Gas Grills Under $500

Preview
Best Propane Grill
Weber Spirit II E-210 2-Burner Liquid Propane...
Runner Up
Char-Broil Performance Series Convective...
Best Natural Gas Grill
Dyna-Glo DGP397CNN-D Premier 3 Burner Natural...
Best Portable Gas Grill
Royal Gourmet GT1001 Stainless Steel Portable...
Fuel Type
Propane
Propane
Natural Gas
Propane
Cooking Surface Area (Sq. inches)
450
425
550
280
No. of Burners
2
4
3
1
Heat Output (BTU)
26,500
36,000
36,000
10,000
Dimensions (Inches)
48 x 26 x 57
50.4 x 24.5 x 45
54.53 x 23.23 x 45.27
27.17 x 17.32 x 14.17
Weight (lb)
20
85
99.43
19.6
Best Propane Grill
Preview
Weber Spirit II E-210 2-Burner Liquid Propane...
Fuel Type
Propane
Cooking Surface Area (Sq. inches)
450
No. of Burners
2
Heat Output (BTU)
26,500
Dimensions (Inches)
48 x 26 x 57
Weight (lb)
20
Runner Up
Preview
Char-Broil Performance Series Convective...
Fuel Type
Propane
Cooking Surface Area (Sq. inches)
425
No. of Burners
4
Heat Output (BTU)
36,000
Dimensions (Inches)
50.4 x 24.5 x 45
Weight (lb)
85
Best Natural Gas Grill
Preview
Dyna-Glo DGP397CNN-D Premier 3 Burner Natural...
Fuel Type
Natural Gas
Cooking Surface Area (Sq. inches)
550
No. of Burners
3
Heat Output (BTU)
36,000
Dimensions (Inches)
54.53 x 23.23 x 45.27
Weight (lb)
99.43
Best Portable Gas Grill
Preview
Royal Gourmet GT1001 Stainless Steel Portable...
Fuel Type
Propane
Cooking Surface Area (Sq. inches)
280
No. of Burners
1
Heat Output (BTU)
10,000
Dimensions (Inches)
27.17 x 17.32 x 14.17
Weight (lb)
19.6
Preview
Best Budget Gas Grill
MASTER COOK 3 Burner BBQ Propane Gas Grill,...
Monument Grills Mesa 400M Gas Grill
Monument Grills Larger 4-Burner Propane Gas...
Cuisinart CGG-7400 Gas Grill
Cuisinart CGG-7400 Propane, 54 Inch, Full...
Fuel Type
Propane
Propane
Propane
Cooking Surface Area (Sq. inches)
471.8
542
610
No. of Burners
3
4
4
Heat Output (BTU)
30,000
52,000
44,000
Dimensions (Inches)
46.46 x 20.87 x 41.14
19 x 53 x 46
22.5 x 46.5 x 46.5
Weight (lb)
48.9
94.6
64
Best Budget Gas Grill
Preview
MASTER COOK 3 Burner BBQ Propane Gas Grill,...
Fuel Type
Propane
Cooking Surface Area (Sq. inches)
471.8
No. of Burners
3
Heat Output (BTU)
30,000
Dimensions (Inches)
46.46 x 20.87 x 41.14
Weight (lb)
48.9
Monument Grills Mesa 400M Gas Grill
Preview
Monument Grills Larger 4-Burner Propane Gas...
Fuel Type
Propane
Cooking Surface Area (Sq. inches)
542
No. of Burners
4
Heat Output (BTU)
52,000
Dimensions (Inches)
19 x 53 x 46
Weight (lb)
94.6
Cuisinart CGG-7400 Gas Grill
Preview
Cuisinart CGG-7400 Propane, 54 Inch, Full...
Fuel Type
Propane
Cooking Surface Area (Sq. inches)
610
No. of Burners
4
Heat Output (BTU)
44,000
Dimensions (Inches)
22.5 x 46.5 x 46.5
Weight (lb)
64

The Best Gas Grills Under $500

Here is a list of the top gas grills under $500

1. Weber Spirit II E-210

Best Propane Grill

Specs

  • Fuel Type: Propane
  • Cooking Space: 450 sq. inches
  • No. of Burners: 2
  • Heat Output: 26,500 BTU
  • Dimensions: 48 x 26 x 57 inches
  • Weight: 20lbs

Good Quality Grill

This grill slides in just under the mark of $500. However, there is no denying that it is one of the top propane grills that you can buy for the price.

One of these reasons is due to the high quality materials used to construct the grill. From the porcelain coated grates to the strong build quality, this is a propane grill that is going to last you a while.

The only real complaint I have with this grill is that it is very tricky to set up. Not only are you going to need some help, set up is likely to take a few hours.

Great Grilling Experience

I really enjoyed taking this grill on a few test runs! Thanks to the GS4 grilling system, this gas grill roared to life immediately. What's more, temperature control and maintenance was a breeze on both burners.

I also really liked the grilling performance on this gas grill. The porcelain coated cast iron grates ensure that there is even heat distribution throughout, allowing your food to cook at a steady and even rate.

In addition to this, the grates are reversible. The thinner side can be used for delicate foods while the thicker side is ideal for creating sear marks.

Grilled Patty and Sausages

Plenty of Additional Features

Considering the price point, you do get plenty of additional features with this grill. You have the side tables for storing food while you are cooking. There are also additional hooks for you to hang your utensils. The open cart design means that you can stow various items under the grill.

Compact Design

Don't have a lot of space in your home or backyard? Thats not a problem with a gas grill. It is a fairly compact grill, making it ideal for small spaces or household. One of the side tables can be folded, allowing you to store the gas grill easily. And, as an added bonus, the propane grill comes with wheels, making it easy to move around.

Pros

  • High quality grill
  • Good grilling features
  • Additional features
  • Compact size

Cons

  • Difficult assembly

2. Char-Broil Performance

Runner Up

Specs 

  • Fuel Type: Propane
  • Cooking Space: 452 sq. inches
  • No. of Burners: 4
  • Heat Output: 36,000
  • Dimensions: 50.4 x 24.5 x 45 inches
  • Weight: 85lbs

Good Value for Money

Looking for a really great gas grill but want it to be affordable? Well, this Char-Broil propane grill is a worthy runner up to the Weber Spirit II E 210 but at a much lower price point.

It is a good gas grill that provides the kind of grilling performance and features that you need. The only downside is that the build quality of certain components isn't all that great so you do have to be careful about how you use this grill.

Good Grilling Experience

At this price point, I was really impressed by the stainless steel burners. They have an easy ignition system and can get very hot, very quickly. At the same time, the temperature control on this gas grill is excellent and you will have no trouble managing it, regardless of what you are cooking.

Additional Side Burner

The side burner on this gas grill is actually pretty impressive, producing 10,000 BTUs, making it idea for preparing anything from sauces to side dishes. And, if you don't want to use it, it can easily be converted into a side table.

Simple Cleanup

Not only is it really easy to clean underneath the grill grates, but the grease management system and pan on this gas grill is excellent. Simply slide it out and clean as necessary before popping it back in. It is as easy as that.

Pros

  • Great value
  • Good grilling performance
  • Side burner
  • Easy cleanup

Cons

  • Questionable durability

3. Dyna-Glo Premier

Best Natural Gas Grill

Specs 

  • Fuel Type: Natural Gas
  • Cooking Space: 550 sq. inches
  • No. of Burners: 3
  • Heat Output: 36,000 BTU
  • Dimensions: 54.53 x 23.23 x 45.27 inches
  • Weight: 99.43lbs

Good Cooking Surface Area

Looking for a large cooking surface area? Well, then this is the natural gas grill for you. It is perfect for a family of four or even when cooking for a larger crowd. I also like the warming rack that can work well if you want to cook more delicate foods.

Good Grilling Performance

There is a lot to like about the grilling performance of this gas grill. To begin with, it has a great heat output allowing you to get the grill as hot as you like, making it perfect for cooking or searing anything from hot dogs and burgers to larger cuts of meat.

In particular, I like the cast iron cooking grates on this gas grill. They have been designed for improved even heat distribution, ensuring that all your food is cooked at an even rate.

Meat and Veggie Burgers on a Gas Grill

Side Tables

Not only does this gas grill come with two side tables, but they are also foldable! The folding side tables come in handy when you want to store the gas grill but don't want it to take up too much space. And, needless to say, the side tables are useful when needing to store food while you are grilling.

The only complaint that I have about this grill is that the construction does feel a bit flimsy at times. So, I would avoid moving it around as much as possible.

Pros

  • Large cooking surface
  • Good grilling performance
  • Foldable side tables

Cons

  • Lacks some durability

4. Royal Gourmet GT1001

Best Portable Gas Grill

Specs 

  • Fuel Type: Propane
  • Cooking Space: 280 sq. inches
  • No. of Burners: 1
  • Heat Output: 10,000 BTU
  • Dimensions: 27.17 x 17.32 x 14.17 inches
  • Weight: 19.6lbs

Lightweight and Compact

Do you want a gas grill that you can pick up and take wherever you want? Well, then this is the grill for you! Not only is this Royal Gourmet the lightest of the gas grills on this list, but it has also been designed for travel.

With a lid that locks and foldable legs, you can easily take and set this grill up anywhere. It also works if you live in an apartment complex and don't have a lot of space for a new gas grill.

Just keep in mind that it does have to be used with a 1lb propane tank.

Good Heat Distribution

As you can imagine, when it comes to burner output, this propane gas grill isn't winning any awards - it has a 10,000 BTU rating. Now, this isn't bad - it is great for cooking hamburgers and hot dogs. However, you may not be able to cook larger cuts of meat.

Despite the lower output, this portable grill boasts excellent heat distribution. This is because the single U-shaped burner extends the length of the grill.

Durable Construction

I have to say that I was pleasantly surprised at how solidly this portable grill was built! The build quality is excellent and you can move it around without worrying that it is going to fall apart without warning.

Pros

  • Compact and lightweight
  • Good heat distribution
  • Durable construction

Cons

  • Lower heat output

5. Master Cook ‎SRGG31403 Gas Grill

Best Budget Gas Grill

Specs 

  • Fuel Type: Propane
  • Cooking Space: 471.8 sq. inches
  • No. of Burners: 3
  • Heat Output: 30,000 BTU
  • Dimensions: 46.46 x 20.87 x 41.14 inches
  • Weight: 48.9lbs

Affordable Grill for Beginners

If you are just starting out with gas grills, the last thing that you want is to spend a lot of money on a grill. Well, in this case, this grill is the perfect option for you. It is very affordable but has all the features that you need for a great grilling experience.

The only thing that I do want to warn you about is the sturdiness of the grill. Make sure to set it up where you intend to keep and avoid moving it around as much as possible.

High Temperature Range

I was really surprised to see how hot this grill could get! What's more, it heated up so quickly that there was no downtime at all. So, if you are looking for a sear burner propane gas grill, I would definitely suggest this one for you!

Minced Steaks on the Gas Grill

Good Design

I really like the design of this grill. To begin with, the cooking space is excellent and works well for a mid-sized family. There is also a warming rack above the main burners so that you can slow cook other foods here.

The two side tables can work as a prep space or as a place to store your food once it comes off the grill. In any case, it is an important and appreciated feature.

Pros

  • Affordable price
  • High temperature
  • Good design

Cons

  • Not very sturdy

6. Monument Grills Mesa 400M Gas Grill

Specs 

  • Fuel Type: Propane
  • Cooking Space: 542 sq. inches
  • No. of Burners: 4
  • Heat Output: 52,000 BTU
  • Dimensions: 19 x 53 x 46 inches
  • Weight: 94.6lbs

Large Grilling Surface

If you do have a larger family or tend to cook for a crowd, then you will enjoy how much grilling space this gas grill offers you. You also have a warming rack above the main cooking area and this can also act as a secondary cooking surface for more delicate foods.

Good Temperature Maintenance and Control

This grill one of the most powerful burners of all the gas grills on this list. Therefore, if you are looking to increase how much heat you can cook with, then this is the model that you should go with.

At the same time, this grill offers a great deal of control over the temperature. So, it doesn't matter if you want to sear meat or go low and slow, you will be able to do it without any issue at all.

Side Burner

I also like that there is an additional side burner on this propane gas grill, this way all of the cooking can be done in the same area. In case you have no use of the burner, it can easily double as another side table instead.

Good Design

I do like the overall design of this propane gas grill. This includes the side table as well as the fact that there is plenty of storage space under the grill. This is ideal for storing your propane tank or simple for storing tools and utensils that you need for your cook.

As an added bonus, there is also a window in the cooking chamber which allows you to take a peek at how well your food is grilling while still maintaining heat retention.

My biggest pet peeve with this grill is that it can be really difficult to put together. You will need assistance and even then there are so many parts and pieces that it can take a while.

Pros

  • Large grilling surface
  • God temperature maintenance and control
  • Side burner
  • Good design

Cons

  • Difficult to set up

7. Cuisinart CGG-7400 Gas Grill

Specs 

  • Fuel Type: Propane
  • Cooking Space: 610 sq. inches
  • No. of Burners: 4
  • Heat Output: 44,000 BTU
  • Dimensions: 22.5 x 46.5 x 46.5 inches
  • Weight: 64lbs

Large Cooking Area

If you need to feed a crowd on a regular basis, then this is the grill that I would recommend to you. Of all the gas grills on this list, this has the largest cooking area. You also have a warming rack just above for anything from burger buns to more delicate foods.

The main complaint that I have regarding this grill is that it is quite tricky to put together. So, be prepared to spend quite some time setting it up.

Good Temperature Range

If you are looking for a grill that can get seriously hot, then this will do the trick for you. While a lot of gas grills claim to have high output, this grill actually lives up to its promises. From quick cooking to high heat searing, you will be able to tackle all kinds of foods.

Grilling New York Strip Steak on Outdoor Gas Grill

Good Temperature Control and Distribution

I love how quickly you can get the ignition going on this grill. It is just a matter of twisting the knob and the burner roars to life. No more messing around trying to get the burner to light - this works from the first turn.

Pros

  • Large cooking area
  • Good temperature range
  • Good temperature control and distribution

Cons

  • Difficult to assemble

How to Choose the Best Gas Grill for You?

Here is your guide to choosing the right gas grill for you:

Propane vs. Natural Gas Grills

I would argue that this choice largely depends on the setup in your home. For instance, if your home is already outfitted with a natural gas line that extends to the backyard, then a natural gas model can make sense for you.

In the event that you don't want to undergo any home renovations or you want to be able to move your grill around, then a propane grill is the way to go.

Good Heat Output

When grilling, you will likely need to cook your food at temperatures exceeding 350 F. Due to this, you need a grill that has a higher BTU rating. Now, keep in mind that some companies do exaggerate the heat output of their gas grills.

This is why it is best to stick to a well known brand as there is a higher chance that you are getting a good output.

Cooking Area to Burner Ratio

There is often a lot of question about burners when it comes to gas grills. It isnt just about the number of burners, though. Instead, you should be looking at the cooking area size and figuring out whether that grill has a suitable number of burners.

For instance, if you want a tabletop grill, then a single burner or two burners are good. On the other hand, if you want a mid-sized grill, then you should look for a model with three to four burners. With a very large cooking area, you can go all the way up to six burners.

Man Grills Marinated Pork on Gas Grill

Stainless Steel vs. Cast Iron Grates

When it comes to grills, your top two options are cast iron and stainless steel. Both of these have their pros and cons.

Cast iron is great for retaining heat and distributing heat evenly. Unfortunately, you have to be careful of the porcelain coating that is typically on these grates because if you scratch them, then the grates will rust.

Stainless steel is a wonderful grate material if you are trying to keep rust and corrosion at bay. The downside is that with continuous use, they can lose their non stick qualities.

Additional Features

Apart from the main elements, there are a lot of features that you should consider when buying your gas grill. The main thing that I would look for are side tables - they should have a large surface area so that you can easily balance trays of food.

You may also want to think about getting a grill with a side burner. Now, these don't burn as hot as the main burners but they are great for making sauces or sides without having to leave the grill unattended. Of course, it is up to you to figure out whether you actually need such a feature.

I would also look for tool hooks on the side of the grill. This allows you to hang up the utensils that you aren't currently using but also having them on hand hand at the same time.

You may also want to consider a storage space below the grill. This is a great place to store your tank or your other grill tools when they are not in use.

Check Durability

Now, when looking for gas grills under 500, quality isn't always assured, especially if you are looking for a very cheap grill. While cheaper grills are more affordable upfront, they may not last as long. However, such grills are a good option if you are new to grilling and aren't sure if you will stick with it.

On the flip side, if you are committed to grilling, I would suggest making an investment so that your grill will be around for a few years to come.

The Best Gas Grills - The Final Verdict

The Weber Spirit II E 210 is hands down the best gas grill that you can buy for this price point. It provides such a reliable grilling experience thanks to the great temperature control. The even heat distribution also plays a role in making this a great grill.

To add to this, it is also compact and has lots of additional features for you to work with.

Of course, everyone's needs are different. This is why I recommend checking out all the grills on this list to ensure that you find your perfect fit.

By Kristy J. Norton
I'm Kristy – a chef and connoisseur of all things BBQ! You can find me either in my kitchen (or someone else's) or at a big outdoor barbecue surrounded by friends and family. In both my professional and personal life I’ve picked up more than a few tips and tricks for turning out delicious food. I consider it a privilege to share it with others!
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