This is our review of the best gas grills under $500.
Gas grills offer a convenient and quick way to grill foods, with easy temperature control and minimal setup time compared to charcoal grills.
If you are in the market for a quality gas grill that doesn’t cost a lot of money, there are some good options available.
Like the Weber Spirit II E-210, our best overall pick.
In this price range, you can find grills with enough space to cook for a family, multiple burners for temperature control, and even some with extra features like side burners.
However, the decision-making doesn’t stop at the price tag. You need to consider build quality, heat distribution, and durability to ensure your investment lasts.
So, if you want to make sure you are getting bang for your bucks, keep reading to see our picks for the best gas grills under $500.
You will be glad you did!
Weber Spirit II 2-Burner Liquid Propane Grill
- Cooking Area: 360 square inches
- Number of Burners: 2
- Power: 18,000 BTUs
- Warranty: 10 years
Weber Traveler Portable Gas Grill
- Cooking Area: 320 square inches
- Number of Burners: 1
- Power: 13,000 BTUs
- Warranty: Up to 5 years
Coleman Roadtrip 285 Portable Propane Grill
- Cooking Area: 285 square inches
- Number of Burners: 3
- Power: 20,000 BTUs
- Warranty: 3 years
Char-Broil Performance 4-Burner Gas Grill
- Cooking Area: 605 square inches
- Number of Burners: 4 main + 1 side
- Power: 36,000 BTUs
- Warranty: Up to 5 years
Monument Grills 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill
- Cooking Area: 683 square inches
- Number of Burners: 4 main + 1 side
- Power: 60,000 BTUs
- Warranty: Up to 8 years
Contents
5 Best Gas Grills Under $500 Reviewed
Finding a quality grill on a budget is easier than you may think.
Here, you’ll discover some of the best gas grills that will keep your grilling game strong without breaking the bank.
Each one also offers great value.
This Weber grill could be the gateway to enjoying flavorful barbecues in the comfort of your own backyard.
Weber’s Spirit II E-210 is a combination of convenience and power. Its compact size doesn’t do justice to a capable grilling system that efficiently handles your weekend barbecue. The open-cart design and side table provide practical workspaces, even on smaller patios.
The Spirit II is fitted with Weber’s GS4 High Performance Grilling System. You get a sizeable cooking area and two burners that pack a punch with their BTU output.
The durability of the grill is backed by a solid warranty. So you know your investment is protected.
And, its quality construction shouldn’t be underestimated.
Even with its two burners, this grill maintains consistent heat for perfectly grilled food. And if you want to monitor the temperature of your food remotely, the iGrill 3 Bluetooth thermometer is a great option.
Pros
- Effective GS4 grilling system for even cooking
- Compact design with folding table for space efficiency
- iGrill 3 compatible for convenient temperature monitoring
Cons
- Limited to two burners which may restrict cooking space for larger groups
- Requires separate purchase of iGrill 3 for full feature use
Whether to purchase the Weber Traveler Portable Gas Grill depends on your need for a compact, easy-to-handle outdoor cooking solution.
Owning the right equipment can transform your grilling experience. The Weber Traveler Portable Gas Grill stands out for those who appreciate convenience without compromising on the cooking area.
The spacious cooking surface lets you prepare food for the whole family in one go. And it folds up in a nice small package if you need to transport in in the trunk of your car.
The Weber Traveler optimizes gas usage. It is designed to get the most out of each tank. You can attach a 16 oz. liquid propane cylinder or a 20 lb. tank with an adapter hose.
Pros
- Swift, one-handed setup
- Space-saving design for easy storage and transport
- Generous cooking space suitable for larger meals
Cons
- Adaptor hose for larger gas tanks sold separately
Grilling on-the-go has never been as convenient as with the Coleman Roadtrip 285 Standup Propane Gas Grill. The quick-fold legs and wheels promote effortless transport and setup.
The large cooking area lets you prepare meals for a group in one cooking session. The grilling space and adjustable burners allow you to easily grill foods for any occasion.
The grill also includes a built-in thermometer. It helps ensure your food is cooked just right every time.
The Coleman Roadtrip 285 is fueled by a16 oz propane gas cylinder. But it is easy to hook up a 20-pound tank with an adaptor hose.
Pros
- Portability enhances flexibility for use at various outdoor events
- Large cooking surface caters to more food
- Has three burners
Cons
- Need to purchase adaptors if connecting to larger propane tanks.
The Char-Broil Performance 4-Burner Grill boasts a generous cooking area and additional features that make grilling a breeze.
Its 36,000 BTUs of cooking power and dedicated side burner provides even more square inches of cooking space.
There are 475 square inches of cooking pace. Enough to grill up to 24 burgers, 20 chicken breasts or 12 steaks.
Its heavy duty porcelain-coated cast-iron cooking grates are perfect for leaving those grill marks we all desire.
The Char-Broil Performance 4-Burner Grill features user-friendly control knobs and a handy temperature gauge for a no-stress grilling experience.
It also has a side shelf. This added convenience gives you extra space while you’re flipping burgers.
Pros
- Quick to reach cooking temperature with even heat distribution
- Plenty of cooking space for large meals
- Comes with a removable grease tray to make cleanup easy
Cons
- Propane tank needs to be purchased separately
The Monument Grills 4-Burner propane gas grill delivers 60,000 BTUs of cooking power across four burners and an additional gas side burner.
The cooking area is large, totaling 683 square inches. Cooking for a large group is a easy with this baby.
There are even LED control knobs for efficient grilling even if the sun goes down.
The Monument Grills 4-Burner grill also features stainless steel flame tamers for even heat. And it comes with electronic ignition for easy burner lighting.
Pros
- Large cooking area
- Night-time visibility with LED knobs
- Integrated storage cabinet
- Four-burner gas grill
Cons
- Does not feature a lid thermometer
- Is not weather resistant
Buying Guide for Best Grills Under $500
Gas grills are easy to operate and can be ready to use in a few minutes. They are a favorite among BBQ enthusiasts because of the convenience they offer.
Some factors to consider before purchasing one of the best grills under $500 are given below.
Budget
Consider your budget first. Gas grills in this price range vary in features and quality. Stick to your budget while looking for the best value.
Size and Cooking Area
Think about the grill size you need. If you often cook for a crowd, you’ll want a larger cooking area.
A smaller cooking area is fine for less frequent use or smaller gatherings.
BTUs
Check the number of burners. More burners offer better heat distribution and control. The heat output is measured in BTUs (British Thermal Unit).
The higher the BTUs the more heat the grill can generate.
Material and Durability
Look at the material the grill is made of. For example, stainless steel offers durability and ease of cleaning.
Ensure the grill parts are sturdy and well-constructed.
Features
Look for useful features. Some grills have side burners, a built-in thermometer, or a rotisserie.
Decide which features are important to you.
Maintenance
Consider maintenance and ease of cleaning. Removable grease trays and easy-to-clean surfaces save time.
Proper upkeep will extend the life of your grill.
Warranty
A good warranty can save you from future costs. A longer warranty often indicates a manufacturer’s confidence in their product.
Always check the warranty terms before buying.
Adding Smoke Flavor to A Gas Grill
Don’t think that gas grills are for grilling only. They can be used for low and slow cooking also. The following video shows you how.
Our Verdict
So, you have it. We reviewed the best gas grills under $500 and presented our results to help you make the best buying decision.
All the grills listed in this review are good choices. The Weber Spirit II was determined to be the best.
However, all of grills on our list are great options. So, if you are in the market for a quality gas grill that won’t break the bank, we’ve got you covered!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do the best gas grills under $500 compare to more expensive models in terms of quality?
Gas grills under $500 can offer robust quality, fitting most casual grilling needs. They might lack the advanced features of higher-end models, like integrated lighting or precision heat control, but the best in this range should still ensure even heating and sturdiness
How long should a gas grill under $500 last?
A good gas grill under $500 should last you several years with proper care. The lifespan depends on the materials used and how well you maintain it. Regular cleaning and covering your grill when not in use can help it last longer.
What are some tips for maintaining a gas grill to ensure longevity and optimal performance?
To keep your grill in top condition, clean the grates after each use to prevent buildup. Cover your grill when not in use to protect it from the elements. Annually, check for gas leaks and inspect burners for clogging, as consistent care will prevent most long-term issues and ensure your grill performs well for many seasons.
Are there any good brands for gas grills under $500?
Definitely! Brands like Weber, and Char-Broil offer some great gas grills in this price range. They are known for their quality and reliability. It’s a good idea to read reviews and compare models to find the best one for you.
