As summer winds down, consider getting a new backyard grill before next season.
When shopping for a backyard grill, you’ll find many different brand names—Weber, Char-Broil, and Traeger, to name a few.
With so many options, you may wonder if the brand name really matters regarding backyard grills.
As someone who loves grilling and has used different brand-name grills over the years, the brand makes a difference in performance, features, and longevity.
In this blog post, I’ll review the pros and cons of leading Backyard Grill Brand Names Matter.
I’ll help you understand what sets each brand apart so you can determine if shelling out more for a premium brand is worth it or if a budget-friendly option will meet your needs.
Here’s Why You Shouldn’t Buy A Cheap Grill?
With summer grilling season in full swing, you may be tempted by the low prices of grills at big box stores and discount retailers. However, before you pull out your wallet for a cheap backyard grill, there are some important cons to consider
Cheap grills typically have thinner metal and lower-quality construction. This means they won’t retain heat well, leading to uneven cooking temperatures and frequent flare-ups.
Flimsy parts like cooking grates and burners are more prone to rusting and breaking. You’ll likely have to replace a bargain grill far sooner than a premium model.
Cheap grills also need more key features and functionality. Many need side burners or rotisserie kits for versatile cooking.
Precise temperature control and intelligent technology are rare as well. While these extras may seem unnecessary, they allow you to grill like a pro and expand your menu.
Spending more upfront on a well-built grill from a leading brand like Weber or Napoleon will save you money and frustration in the long run.
The superior materials and craftsmanship ensure even, consistent temperature and heat and years of reliable performance.
Your food will taste better too. So if you’re in the market for a new backyard grill, avoid being tempted by a cheap model. Opting for quality over price is the way to go.
The Best Brands 2023 In Different Types Of Grills
The market has many type of grill styles and brands to meet any budget or cooking need. Whether you are a casual griller or an aspiring pitmaster, here is the right grill for your backyard.
Electric Grills
George Foreman’s electric grill provides a fast and easy way to make tasty meals at home. The removable plates are coated in durable, nonstick material that allows you to cook without oil and cleans up easily in the dishwasher.
This grill heats up 35% faster than previous models, so your food hits the plate quicker. With 60 square inches of grilling surface, it can handle a main course for 4 people or a full meal with sides.
Key Features:
– Removable nonstick plates, dishwasher safe
– 35% faster preheat
– Advanced George Tough nonstick coating
– 60 sq. in. cooking surface, 4 serving capacity
– Drip tray to catch grease
I’d recommend the George Foreman Electric Grill for fast and convenient indoor grilling. The nonstick removable plates allow you to cook grease-free meals and simplify cleanup.
Charcoal grills
The Original Kettle is where it all started for Weber Grills. This 22-inch charcoal grill provides the authentic grilling experience that made Weber famous. With superior heat retention from the porcelain-enameled lid and bowl, you can easily grill up juicy burgers and steaks.
The One-Touch cleaning system makes ash removal a breeze. Just rotate the cleaning system to dump the ash catcher without getting your hands dirty. Other handy features include the lid holder hook and adjustable dampers for precise temperature range control.
With great cooking space, the Original Kettle can hold up to 13 burgers made with a Weber burger press. The durable plated steel cooking grate retains heat and won’t rust or peel.
Overall, if you’re looking for an affordable, high-quality charcoal grill built to last, the Weber Original Kettle is a classic choice. It provides precise grilling functionality with simple cleanup in an iconic kettle grill design.
Key Features:
– Porcelain-enameled bowl and lid retain heat for even cooking
– One-Touch cleaning system for easy ash removal
– Lid holder hook and adjustable dampers for temperature control
– Durable plated steel cooking grate
With superior heat retention and easy ash cleanup, I recommend the Weber Original Kettle for anyone wanting an authentic charcoal grilling experience. The kettle design is a grill classic for a reason.
Gas grills
The Char-Broil Classic 360 provides plenty of grilling space and power for a family. With 30,000 BTUs spread across 3 main burners and an 8,000 BTU side burner, you can cook burgers, steaks, veggies, and more for a crowd.
Indirect cooking is an effective method for slow-cooking significant or tough cuts of chicken breasts. Position the meat next to the fire rather than directly over it, and close the lid to maintain heat.
The 360 square inches of cooking space allows you to grill over 20 burgers. Porcelain-coated grates prevent sticking and allow for easy cleaning. Piezo ignition starts the grill fast with the push of a button.
Key Features:
– 30,000 BTU, 3 main burners + 8,000 BTU side burner
– Porcelain-coated grates
– Piezo ignition system
– 2 metal side shelves
– 2 wheels for portability
For a powerful gas grill that can handle backyard barbecues for the whole family, I’d recommend the versatile Char-Broil Classic 360. It provides strong grilling performance and extra workspace.
Pellet grills
The Z Grills ZPG-450A is the ultimate 6-in-1 backyard grill. It functions as a barbecue, oven, roaster, braiser, smoker box, and grill thanks to convection fan-forced cooking.
The 2019 digital control board lets you precisely set the temperature from 180°F to 450°F and maintains it automatically with the electric pellet feed system.
With 450 square inches of grilling space and a 15-pound pellet hopper, the ZPG-450A can handle large cookouts. Other highlights include a foldable shelf, rust-proof cover, all-terrain wheels, and a special waste oil collector for easy cleanup.
Key Features:
– 6-in-1 BBQ capabilities
– Digital auto temp control from 180°F-450°F
– 450 sq. in. grilling space
– Large 15 lb pellet hopper
– Auto electric pellet feed
– Foldable shelf and all-terrain wheels
For incredible versatility in one grill, I’d recommend the Z Grills ZPG-450A pellet grill. It simplifies grilling with automated temperature controls.
Portable grills
The Cuisinart CGG-306 packs 20,000 BTUs of grilling power into a lightweight, portable tabletop grill. With two independently controlled 10,000 BTU stainless steel burners, you can set up different heat zones to cook foods. An integrated thermometer and adjustable knobs allow precise heat output control.
This propane grill sets up in under 10 minutes without any tools needed. The stainless steel construction is durable for outdoor use and lightweight at just 24 lbs. Foldable legs, locking cover, and carry handle make transportation easy.
Key Features:
– 20,000 total BTUs from 2 burners
– Integrated thermometer
– Adjustable burner knobs
– Lightweight 24 lb design
– Carry handle and folding legs
– Easy 10-minute setup
For powerful grilling performance in a highly portable package, I recommend the Cuisinart CGG-306. It’s ideal for picnics, camping, tailgating and more.
What We Consider When Choosing A Grill?
As grilling season kicks off, you may be in the market for a new backyard grill. With so many options, from charcoal and gas to pellet and portable, deciding what will best suit your needs can take time. As avid grillers, my family considers several factors when selecting a new grill.
1. Fuel source
One of the first things we consider is what fuel types make the most sense for our grilling habits. Gas is our go-to if we’ll be grilling frequently or need convenience. We opt for charcoal or a wood pellet grill for a smokier, wood-fired smoke flavor.
2. Size and cooking area
We also think about grill size and the outdoor cooking surface. A larger grill with more square footage can handle more giant cookouts. At the same time, a smaller model works well for everyday family meals.
3. Durability is key
We look for solid construction from stainless steel or cast iron that will hold up season after season.
4. Function
Handy features like side burners, tool hooks, and ample workspace expand functionality.
5. Reviews
We read reviews and comparisons to ensure the grill has excellent temperature control and heat distribution for evenly cooked food.
6. Budget
Budget plays a role – we must find the spot between quality construction and price point. Keeping all these factors in mind allows us to select the ideal backyard grill for memories in the making.
Helpful Buying Tips 2023
If you want to upgrade your backyard grilling setup this year, there are a few essential tips to get the best value for your money.
- As seasoned grillers, we’ve learned to look beyond the flashy sales and keep these insights in mind when picking out a new grill.
- Foremost – don’t focus only on BTUs for gas grills. While a higher BTU rating indicates more heat, it doesn’t guarantee better performance.
- Look for quality materials, ample cooking space, and features matching your grilling style.
- Regarding leading brands in 2023, Weber remains the gold standard for charcoal and gas grilling. We love their innovative Weber Genesis II and Kettle models that provide versatile, even heating.
- Napoleon offers pro features like infrared burners and extra accessories for an upgrade pick. Traeger dominates the pellet grill category – its WiFi enabled, insulated builds impart an unbeatable wood smoky flavor.
- And for portable grilling, compact Coleman models can’t be beaten for their convenience and value.
No matter your budget or needs, focus on finding a well-constructed grill made to last. Look for brand reputations built through years of quality engineering. With the right tips and top brands, you’ll be equipped for next-level backyard cooking this season.
Conclusion
After comparing different brand-name grills on the market, the brand makes a significant difference in performance, durability, and overall grilling experience.
While you can save money upfront with a no-name grill, the cheaper construction often means replacing it sooner rather than later.
Given the importance of having a reliable, high-functioning grill, I think it’s worth investing in a brand with a proven reputation for quality and innovation.
I recommend researching brands like Weber, Napoleon, and Broil King for your best bet at even heating, versatile features, and longevity.
The higher price tag reflects the thoughtful engineering and durable materials used in construction. Though it requires more of an initial investment, you’ll be rewarded with years of grilling memories ahead.
So don’t settle for a grill that will only get you through one season. Choose quality over cost by selecting a top backyard grill brand name. You won’t regret it!