9 Best Outdoor BBQ Grills for 2026

The Ninja OG850 Outdoor Woodfire Pro XL is a game-changer for grillers who crave bold, real woodfire flavor without the bulk of a traditional smoker. Its 4-in-1 versatility—grill, smoke, air fry, and bake—packed into a single electric unit makes it a powerhouse for flavor innovation. The 180 sq. in. cooking surface, powered by real wood pellets, delivers authentic sear and bark on meats, while the smart built-in thermometer eliminates guesswork, alerting you when your brisket hits perfect doneness. It’s a dream for apartment dwellers, campers, or anyone craving smokehouse depth without propane tanks or charcoal mess.

In real-world testing, the Ninja excels at wood-smoked wings and crispy air-fried veggies, achieving golden, flavorful results in under 30 minutes. The ½-cup pellet system heats fast and smokes efficiently, though heavy smokers may find pellet consumption adds up over long sessions. It handles steaks and burgers with pro-level sear marks, but lacks the intense radiant heat of gas grills above 60,000 BTUs. The nonstick grates clean easily, and the portable design works flawlessly on balconies or RV trips—just plug into a standard outlet. However, it’s not ideal for ultra-low-and-slow cooks beyond 4 hours due to pellet hopper size.

Compared to the Royal Gourmet CC1830S charcoal smoker, the Ninja trades traditional fire control for convenience and precision. It’s less hands-on than managing charcoal airflow but delivers more consistent results for beginners. For those wanting flavor without fuss, this is the ultimate hybrid. While it doesn’t match the sheer capacity of the Spire 6-burner, it outperforms in flavor versatility and portability, making it a smarter pick for flavor-focused cooks who value flexibility over massive grilling space.

The Spire 740-0781P is a grilling titan built for serious outdoor chefs who demand maximum power, precision, and presence. With 6 high-output 10,000 BTU burners and a 73,000 BTU total output, it fires up instantly and maintains searing heat across its massive 904 sq. in. cooking surface—perfect for feeding a crowd or hosting weekend BBQ blowouts. The 304 stainless steel grates deliver superior heat retention and rust resistance, while the dual fuel compatibility lets you switch to natural gas for a cleaner, more cost-effective fuel source. This isn’t just a grill—it’s a backyard command center.

In performance testing, the Spire shines in high-heat searing and multi-zone cooking. The independent burner control allows precise temperature zones, making it easy to grill steaks on one side and keep sides warm on another. The rear rotisserie burner adds serious versatility, crisping whole chickens with even rotation and radiant heat. Real-world use on concrete patios and decks shows excellent stability, though installation requires permanent hookups. It handles wind and light rain with ease thanks to solid stainless steel construction, but the sheer size means it’s not for small spaces or renters.

When stacked against the Spire 5-burner 740-0788P, the 6-burner model offers greater cooking density and a slight BTU edge, ideal for large families or frequent entertainers. While the 5-burner is more than sufficient for most, this one justifies its premium with extra burner redundancy and marginally better heat distribution. Compared to the Royal Gourmet GA5401T, it’s in a different league—more durable, powerful, and built to last decades. It’s the best overall choice for those investing in a lifetime outdoor kitchen centerpiece that blends performance, durability, and elegance.

The Royal Gourmet CC1830S is a smoke lover’s dream, blending a full-sized charcoal grill with a dedicated offset smoker to deliver deep, authentic BBQ flavor at a fraction of the cost of high-end smokers. With 823 sq. in. of total cooking space, including a 197 sq. in. smoker chamber, it’s built to handle brisket, ribs, and pulled pork with room to spare. The adjustable charcoal pan and side air vent give you precise heat control, while the built-in lid thermometer ensures you stay in the ideal smoking range. For pitmasters on a budget, this is a no-compromise path to low-and-slow mastery.

In real-world use, the CC1830S produces rich, even smoke rings and tender bark on meats, thanks to excellent heat circulation between the main chamber and smoker box. The porcelain-enameled grates resist rust and deliver consistent sear, while the warming rack keeps finished items hot. It performs exceptionally well in camping and backyard setups, though wind can disrupt temperature stability—using a wind shield is recommended. The side door makes it easy to add wood chunks without losing heat, a rare and welcome feature in this price range. However, the bottom shelf is flimsy and not suited for heavy accessories.

Compared to the Weber Kettle, this grill offers far more smoking capability and cooking space, making it better suited for serious BBQ enthusiasts. While the Kettle excels in simplicity and portability, the CC1830S dominates in smoking performance and capacity. Against the Ninja OG850, it lacks tech features but wins on traditional smoke authenticity and cost per square inch. It’s the best choice for those who want real wood-fired BBQ flavor without investing thousands—offering pro-level results with backyard-friendly pricing.

The Gas One 14-inch Portable Charcoal Grill is a compact grilling powerhouse that punches far above its weight in flavor and portability. With a 150 sq. in. cooking surface and dual ventilation system, it delivers consistent, oven-like heat perfect for searing steaks or smoking small cuts. The 3-point locking lid is a standout—trapping heat efficiently and mimicking a mini smoker, which is rare at this size and price. For campers, boaters, or apartment dwellers with limited space, this grill offers real charcoal flavor in a package light enough to toss in a trunk.

In testing, the dual air vents provided excellent airflow control, allowing for both high-heat grilling and low-temperature smoking. The ash catcher keeps cleanup simple, and the compact design makes it ideal for tailgates or picnics. It heats up fast—under 10 minutes—and maintains temperature well on grass or concrete. However, the small cooking area limits it to 4–6 burgers at once, and the thin steel construction can warp under extreme heat over time. Still, for quick, flavorful meals on the go, it’s hard to beat.

Compared to the Weber Kettle, it lacks durability and capacity, but it’s far more portable and affordable. Against the Royal Gourmet CC1830, it’s not meant for large gatherings—but that’s not its job. It’s the ultimate grab-and-go grill for solo adventurers or couples who want charcoal taste without the setup hassle. With lightweight mobility and real grilling performance, it outshines most mini grills in flavor, build, and usability.

The Weber Original Kettle 22-Inch is the gold standard of charcoal grills—a timeless design that balances simplicity, durability, and flavor like no other. With a porcelain-enameled lid and bowl, it retains heat beautifully and resists rust, while the One-Touch cleaning system makes ash removal fast and mess-free. The 22-inch diameter offers enough space for 12–13 burgers, and the adjustable dampers give you full control over airflow and temperature. For purists who love the ritual of charcoal grilling, this is the benchmark by which all others are measured.

In real-world use, the Kettle delivers perfect sear marks, smoky flavor, and consistent results across grilling, smoking, and even baking. The glass-reinforced nylon handles stay cool and sturdy, and the all-weather wheels make it easy to move around patios or decks. It performs flawlessly in wind thanks to its deep bowl design, and the angled lid hook keeps the top secure while cooking. The only limitation? The cooking area can feel tight for large gatherings, and it lacks a warming rack in this base model.

Compared to the Royal Gourmet CC1830, it offers less space and no offset smoker, but it’s more refined, durable, and easier to clean. Against the Gas One portable, it’s heavier but far more stable and heat-efficient. Backed by a 10-year warranty, it’s built to last decades. For those seeking the most trusted, no-nonsense charcoal grilling experience, the Weber Kettle is unmatched in value, performance, and legacy—a true classic that earns every bit of its reputation.

The Royal Gourmet GA5401T is a value-packed gas grill that delivers restaurant-grade performance without the premium price tag. With 61,000 BTUs across five burners, including a 12,000 BTU sear station, it heats up fast and maintains steakhouse-level searing power across its 602 sq. in. cooking surface. The double-layer stainless steel lid traps heat efficiently, while the 9,000 BTU side burner adds serious flexibility for sauces or sautéed veggies. For families wanting big grilling power at a smart price, this is a standout performer.

In testing, the independent burner system allowed precise zone cooking—searing steaks on the front, simmering veggies on the side. The stainless steel grates held up well to high heat and cleaned easily, though they’re not 304-grade like higher-end models. The side shelf with lid doubles as prep space, and the built-in thermometer gave accurate readings. It lights reliably every time, though the ignition could be louder. Wind resistance is decent, but it’s best used in sheltered areas.

Compared to the HUGROVE 4-burner, it offers more BTUs, a larger surface, and a side burner, making it a clear upgrade. Against the Spire 5-burner, it lacks dual fuel compatibility and 304 grates, but delivers 90% of the performance at half the price. It’s the best value for those who want serious grilling capability without overspending—a perfect balance of features, power, and affordability.

The Spire 740-0788P is the sweet spot between luxury and practicality, offering premium features in a slightly more compact 30-inch footprint. With five 10,000 BTU burners and a 13,000 BTU rear rotisserie, it delivers 750 sq. in. of versatile cooking space and serious power for everything from burgers to whole roasted turkeys. The 304 stainless steel grates and frame ensure long-term durability and rust resistance, while dual fuel compatibility adds future flexibility. It’s the ideal choice for those upgrading from freestanding grills to a built-in outdoor kitchen.

In real-world use, the rear rotisserie burner crisped chicken skin perfectly, while the independent burners allowed seamless multi-tasking. The heat distribution is even, with no cold spots, and the lid thermometer provided reliable readings. Installation is straightforward for pros, though DIYers may need help. It handles wind and rain with ease, but like all built-ins, it’s not portable. The cooking space is generous, though slightly less than the 36-inch Spire model.

Compared to the 6-burner Spire, it’s more affordable and space-efficient, making it better for mid-sized patios. Against the Royal Gourmet GA5401T, it offers higher-grade materials and rotisserie capability, justifying the price gap. It’s the best mid-range pick for those who want near-premium performance without overspending—a refined, durable grill that feels like a luxury upgrade.

The HUGROVE 4-burner propane grill is a budget-friendly powerhouse that delivers solid performance and smart design for under $200. With 40,000 BTUs and a 459 sq. in. cooking surface, it heats up fast and handles family meals with ease. The fold-down side tables offer extra prep space and tuck away neatly, while the built-in spice rack and tool hooks keep everything within reach. Four 360° swivel wheels, two lockable, make it easy to move across lawns or decks—perfect for renters or small-space grillers.

In testing, the burners lit reliably and maintained consistent heat, though searing power lags behind higher-BTU models. The stainless steel grates held up well but showed minor warping after repeated high-heat use. The pull-out grease tray made cleanup simple, and assembly took under 90 minutes with clear instructions. It’s not built for commercial use, but for weekend BBQs and small gatherings, it performs admirably.

Compared to the Royal Gourmet GA5401T, it lacks a side burner and sear station, but wins on price and portability. Against the Weber Kettle, it’s faster and more convenient, though it can’t match charcoal flavor. It’s the best budget gas grill for those who want reliable, mobile cooking without breaking the bank—a no-frills workhorse that gets the job done.

The Royal Gourmet CC1830 is the best budget charcoal grill for families who want big cooking space and real charcoal flavor without the high cost. With 627 sq. in. of grilling area, including a 184 sq. in. warming rack, it can handle large cuts of meat and feed a crowd with ease. The 2-level adjustable charcoal pan gives you precise heat control—raise it for searing, lower for slow cooking—while the lid-mounted thermometer takes the guesswork out of temperature management. It’s a no-nonsense, high-value workhorse built for backyard BBQs.

In real-world use, the porcelain-enameled grates delivered even heat and resisted rust, and the removable charcoal pan made ash cleanup simple. The three tool hooks and mesh shelf added convenience, though the shelf’s 20-lb limit means don’t overload it. It performed well in wind thanks to its deep barrel design, and the two wheels made it easy to reposition. It doesn’t have an offset smoker like the CC1830S, but it’s more than capable for grilling and light smoking.

Compared to the Weber Kettle, it offers nearly double the cooking space at a lower price, though with less brand polish. Against the Gas One portable, it’s larger and more stable, but less mobile. It’s the ideal upgrade for Kettle owners wanting more space on a budget—delivering serious grilling capacity and control without the premium tag.