8 Best Large Grills of 2026

The Royal Gourmet GA6402B roars to life like a backyard beast built for flavor dominance. With 74,000 BTUs generated across six powerful burners—including a dedicated 14,000 BTU sear station—this grill delivers high-heat precision that locks in juices and creates restaurant-grade crusts on steaks and chops. The porcelain-enameled cast iron grates hold heat like a thermal battery, ensuring even cooking and those coveted grill marks, while the flame tamers underneath reduce flare-ups and spread heat uniformly—perfect for users tired of hotspots and charring surprises. If you crave consistent, intense heat without the fuss of charcoal, this is your flavor launchpad.

In real-world testing, the grill heats up in under 10 minutes and maintains temperature impressively, even during high-wind cookouts. The 835 sq. in. cooking surface comfortably fits two dozen burgers or a full rack of ribs with room to spare, making it ideal for weekend family feasts or casual gatherings of 8–10. The side burner shines when sautéing onions or simmering sauces, eliminating the need to run back indoors. However, while the sear burner is a standout, the main burners don’t quite match its intensity, creating slight variance across zones—something noticeable when reverse-searing thick cuts. Still, the removable grease tray and rust-resistant lid make cleanup a breeze, a win for post-grill sanity.

Compared to the Traeger Pro 34, this model trades wood-fired nuance for raw propane power and faster cook times—ideal for those who prioritize speed and searing over slow-smoked depth. It’s not a smoker, but it doesn’t pretend to be. This grill is built for grill masters who want gas convenience with steakhouse performance, and it outguns most mid-tier competitors in BTU output and build cohesion. While the Traeger offers more cooking versatility, the GA6402B delivers unmatched high-heat grilling precision for the price.

The Grills House ZH3005Y-SC is a flavor chameleon—a dual-fuel powerhouse that lets you switch between gas convenience and charcoal authenticity without sacrificing space or performance. With a total of 1020 sq. in. of cooking real estate, including a 197 sq. in. offset smoker, this grill is engineered for versatility, letting you sear on gas, smoke ribs slowly, and simmer corn on the side burner—all at once. The adjustable charcoal pan offers three height settings, giving you granular control over heat intensity, a rare perk in this price range. For backyard chefs torn between gas ease and smoky depth, this combo delivers flavor flexibility without compromise.

During testing, the dual-fuel design proved surprisingly seamless—lighting the gas side takes seconds with the piezo ignition, while the charcoal chamber builds rich smoke in under 20 minutes. The 333 sq. in. charcoal zone holds enough fuel for a 3-hour smoke session, and the side door lets you add coals without disturbing the main cook. The side burner is perfect for sauces or beans, though it lacks precise simmer control. One challenge: managing both fuel types simultaneously demands attention, and beginners may struggle with temperature balancing. Still, the porcelain-enameled grates resist rust and clean up well, and the warming rack keeps food hot while you finish the rest.

Against the Royal Gourmet CC2036F, this grill offers more cooking variety in a slightly smaller footprint, trading sheer size for multi-mode functionality. It’s not as large as dedicated barrel smokers, but it’s far more adaptable. Ideal for intermediate grillers who want both gas speed and charcoal flavor, it bridges the gap between simplicity and complexity. While the Royal Gourmet GB8003 beats it in pure gas output, this model wins on versatility and flavor depth, making it a smarter pick for those who love experimenting.

The Royal Gourmet GB6000 is a flat-top titan, redefining outdoor cooking with a massive 994 sq. in. ceramic-coated griddle surface that transforms your patio into a backyard diner. This isn’t just a grill—it’s a cooking command center, where six independently controlled burners deliver even heat distribution across the entire surface, eliminating cold zones that plague cheaper flat tops. The ceramic coating is a game-changer: non-porous, scratch-resistant, and effortless to clean, it prevents rust and staining while ensuring food slides off like butter. For fans of smash burgers, fajitas, or pancakes under the stars, this griddle is a flavor factory with zero cleanup dread.

In practice, the GB6000 heats up fast and holds temperature admirably, even when searing multiple burgers at once. The independent burner control lets you create distinct zones—high heat on the left, warm keepers on the right—perfect for cooking diverse foods simultaneously. The fold-down side tables double as prep space or storage, and the tool hooks and towel rack keep essentials within reach. The double-layer bottom shelves hold propane tanks, utensils, and sauces, reducing trips indoors. However, the sheer size demands ample patio space, and without grates, it can’t deliver classic grill marks—limiting its appeal to purists who crave char.

Stacked against the GB8003, this model trades traditional grilling for flat-top efficiency and surface dominance, making it better suited for family breakfasts, stir-fries, or catering-style meals. It doesn’t offer BTU dominance like the 8-burner gas grill, but its cooking flexibility and cleanability make it a standout for home chefs who value versatility over sear intensity. While the Traeger wins on smoky depth, the GB6000 owns the breakfast-and-lunch griddle game, delivering maximum surface, minimal mess, and unmatched prep convenience.

The Traeger Pro 34 is a smoke-sculpting virtuoso, turning wood pellets into deep, aromatic flavor with precision that borders on scientific. Its Digital Pro Controller uses Advanced Grilling Logic to maintain temperatures within ±15°F, enabling true set-and-forget smoking, roasting, or baking—a revelation for beginners and a time-saver for pros. With 884 sq. in. of cooking space, it can handle 8 whole chickens or 7 racks of ribs in one go, making it ideal for low-and-slow feasts. The meat probe adds another layer of control, alerting you when your brisket hits the magic 195°F—no guesswork, no dry meat. If you crave wood-fired authenticity without charcoal hassle, this is your flavor oracle.

In real-world use, the Traeger excels at long cooks—12-hour pork butts emerge juicy and tender, infused with hickory or applewood essence. The 450°F max temp handles decent searing, though it’s not a high-heat grill like gas models. Startup takes 10–15 minutes as the auger feeds pellets and the fire rod ignites, which is slower than propane but predictable. The porcelain grates clean easily, and the all-terrain wheels make relocation simple. However, it requires electricity, limiting portability, and the pellet hopper needs refilling every 6–8 hours—something to plan for during marathon sessions.

Compared to the Royal Gourmet GA6402B, the Traeger trades instant heat and searing power for flavor depth and automation. It’s not for quick weeknight burgers, but it dominates when you want smoke penetration and hands-off control. Ideal for smoke enthusiasts and meal preppers, it outclasses most in flavor consistency and versatility. While the GB8003 delivers more raw power, the Traeger offers unmatched precision and wood-fired taste, making it the king of slow-cooked mastery.

The Royal Gourmet CC2036F is a gathering giant, built for large events where volume and flavor matter more than speed. With a colossal 1200 sq. in. total cooking area—including a 272 sq. in. offset smoker—this barrel grill can feed a crowd of 10+ with ease, making it perfect for family reunions, tailgates, or neighborhood cookouts. The 3-level adjustable charcoal pan lets you fine-tune heat from searing to slow-smoking, while the side charcoal door allows mid-cook fuel top-ups without lifting grates—a rare and welcome convenience. For those who love authentic charcoal taste and massive capacity, this grill is a no-compromise workhorse.

In testing, the grill maintains steady heat for hours, especially when using lump charcoal, and the offset smoker produces rich, even smoke circulation—ideal for brisket or ribs. The porcelain-enameled grates resist rust and clean up well, and the removable grease cup simplifies post-cook cleanup. However, temperature control demands attention, and beginners may struggle to balance airflow and fuel. The lack of a built-in thermometer on the main chamber (only on the smoker) is a missed opportunity, forcing reliance on external probes. Still, the 7.7 lb. coal capacity ensures long burn times, reducing refuel frequency.

Against the Grills House combo model, this grill wins on pure size and charcoal authenticity, but lacks gas backup or a side burner. It’s not as versatile, but it’s bigger and more specialized for charcoal purists. Ideal for experienced grillers who host often and prioritize space over convenience, it outshines most in raw capacity and smoker integration. While the Traeger offers better temp control, the CC2036F delivers true charcoal soul and unmatched scale, making it the top pick for large, flavor-forward gatherings.

The Royal Gourmet CC1830S is a budget-savvy flavor launcher, punching far above its price with 823 sq. in. of charcoal-powered cooking space and a fully functional offset smoker. Don’t let the low cost fool you—this grill delivers real smoky depth and enough room to cook for 6–8 people, making it ideal for weekend warriors and camping trips. The two-level adjustable charcoal pan gives you direct control over heat intensity, letting you sear or smoke with minimal guesswork. The lid-mounted thermometer is a standout at this price, offering real-time temp feedback so you’re never in the dark. For beginners or casual grillers, this is a flavor-packed entry point without the premium tag.

In real use, the grill heats up quickly and holds temperature well for short to mid-length smokes. The offset smoker adds authentic wood-infused flavor to ribs or sausages, and the side door makes ash cleanup and fuel top-ups easy. The front and side tables offer modest prep space, though they’re not as sturdy as higher-end models. The bottom shelf is limited in weight capacity (20 lb. max), so avoid stacking heavy gear. Still, for the price, the porcelain-enameled grates and chrome warming rack offer solid durability and easy maintenance.

Compared to the MELLCOM 36-In, this model trades some heat control for better portability and affordability, making it a smarter pick for campers or budget-focused buyers. It doesn’t have dual trays or 5-level adjustment, but it’s lighter and simpler. While the Royal Gourmet GB6000 offers more surface, this grill wins on charcoal authenticity and value. It’s the best budget large grill for those who want smoke flavor and decent size without breaking the bank.

The MELLCOM 36-In is a heat-control maestro, engineered for precision charcoal cooking with its dual 5-level height-controlled charcoal trays—a feature rarely seen outside high-end smokers. This means you can independently adjust heat zones, searing steaks on one side while gently warming veggies on the other, all without moving food. The 620 sq. in. cooking area isn’t the largest, but it’s smartly optimized for multi-zone grilling, making it ideal for cooks who value control over sheer size. The folding side tables and spacious under-cabinet storage keep tools and spices protected from weather, while the swivel wheels offer smooth mobility—perfect for patios or balconies. If you crave granular heat management and smart design, this grill delivers.

In testing, the independent tray system shines—raising or lowering each tray takes seconds and dramatically changes cooking intensity. The thermometer gives accurate lid readings, and the stainless steel ash tray simplifies disposal. However, the cooking surface is smaller than advertised when factoring in the warming rack, and the grates aren’t porcelain-coated, making them more prone to rust over time. Still, the powder-coated iron body resists weather well, and the load-bearing side tables handle heavy platters without sagging.

Against the Royal Gourmet CC1830S, this model wins on heat customization and build quality, though it sacrifices some total space. It’s not for those feeding huge crowds, but it’s perfect for intermediate grillers who cook for 4–6 and want pro-level control. While the CC2036F dominates in size, the MELLCOM offers smarter heat management and better organization. For those who grill frequently and value precision, it’s the best adjustable heat control option—offering pro-tier features at a mid-range price.

The Royal Gourmet GB8003 is a gas grilling goliath, unleashing 104,000 BTUs through eight independently controlled burners—making it the most powerful gas option in this lineup. With 947 sq. in. of porcelain-enameled grates, it’s built for large-scale grilling, where precision and power go hand in hand. The dual ignition and dual grease management systems mean faster startups and easier cleanup across two distinct cooking zones, while the folding wind deflector shields flames on breezy days. For serious outdoor chefs who demand maximum BTU output and seamless organization, this grill is a performance powerhouse.

In real-world use, the GB8003 heats up fast and maintains rock-solid temperatures, even when cooking for 10+. The eight burners allow for complex meal prep—searing, roasting, and keeping food warm—all at once. The double-layer shelf stores propane tanks and tools, and the lockable caster wheels ensure stability. However, the high output can lead to overheating in small zones, requiring careful burner management. And while the porcelain coating resists rust, it can chip if scraped aggressively. Still, for backyard hosts who prioritize speed, power, and capacity, this grill is unmatched.

Compared to the GA6402B, it adds two extra burners and 30,000 more BTUs, offering superior cooking zone flexibility and raw power. It doesn’t have a sear station, but the overall output compensates. Ideal for large families or frequent entertainers, it outperforms most in gas efficiency and structural durability. While the Traeger wins on flavor variety, the GB8003 dominates in pure grilling performance and firepower, making it the best gas grill for high-output backyard mastery.