Barbecuing is the ultimate summer pastime, a perfect way to soak up the outdoors with friends and family. But to fire up those burgers and ribs, you need a reliable outdoor grill. With so many options out there, picking the right one can feel overwhelming. We’ve rounded up the best outdoor grills for 2025, vetted for current availability and performance, plus a complete buying guide to simplify your decision-making.
Things to Consider When Buying The Best Outdoor Grills
Before you buy, weigh these key factors to match a grill to your lifestyle.
Fuel Type
Grills come in three main flavors: gas, charcoal, and electric. Each has its strengths and trade-offs—here’s the breakdown:
- Gas Grills: The crowd favorite for a reason—fast to start, easy to control, and ideal for weeknight dinners. They’re pricier upfront but deliver consistent heat and cleaner cooking over time. Perfect if you value convenience.
- Charcoal Grills: For that smoky, classic BBQ taste, charcoal reigns supreme. They’re slower to heat up and messier to clean, but they’re budget-friendly and built to last. Great for flavor chasers with patience.
- Electric Grills: Ideal for apartments or tight spaces where open flames aren’t an option. They’re less powerful but simple to use, clean, and affordable to run. A solid pick for urban grillers.
Size
Size matters—match it to your crew. A compact grill (200-400 square inches) suits small families or couples. For big gatherings, go larger (500+ square inches) to handle multiple racks or a dozen burgers at once. Measure your space too—don’t overcrowd your patio.
Features
The extras can make or break your grilling game. Look for:
- Cooking Add-Ons: Side burners for sauces, warming racks for buns, or griddles for breakfast.
- Safety Must-Haves: Lockable wheels, heat shields, and a clear temperature gauge.
- Nice-to-Haves: Tool hooks, storage shelves, or smart tech for precision control.
Top Outdoor Grills to Consider for 2025
Here’s our updated list, confirmed current as of April 5, 2025, with added options to cover more preferences. These grills are widely available and top-rated for performance.
Char-Broil Classic 360 3-Burner Liquid Propane Gas Grill
- Specs: 360 sq. in. main cooking area, 170 sq. in. warming rack (540 total), 3 burners + side burner, 30,000 BTU.
- Why It’s Great: A versatile mid-size gas grill for 6-8 people. The side burner handles sides like grilled veggies, and the porcelain-coated grates resist rust. The lid-mounted gauge keeps you in control.
- Status: Still a staple in 2025—durable and widely praised for value.
owered by liquid propane gas, this grill runs on a 20-pound tank, not included. It reaches cooking temperatures quickly, delivers high temps and maintains even heat.
Weber Original Kettle Premium Charcoal Grill (22-Inch)
- Specs: 363 sq. in. cooking area, built-in thermometer, one-touch ash cleanup.
- Why It’s Great: A timeless charcoal icon. It’s compact yet roomy enough for a small feast, with precise heat control via dampers. The ash catcher simplifies post-grill cleanup.
- Status: Going strong in 2025—unchanged design, unbeatable reliability.
Superior Heat Retention, One-Touch Cleaning System, Lid Thermometer, Hinged Cooking Grate, Lid Hook, Heat Shield
Cuisinart COS-244 Vertical 36″ Propane Smoker
- Specs: 548 sq. in. across 4 racks, 5.45 sq. ft. total, dual air vents, built-in thermometer.
- Why It’s Great: A smoker for flavor fanatics. It holds up to 50 lbs. of meat, with adjustable racks and steady temp control for low-and-slow perfection.
- Status: Current and popular in 2025—ideal for BBQ enthusiasts branching beyond grilling.
With its simple design and a large smoking chamber, this vertical gas Smoker is the perfect choice for any enthusiast of smoked food, its compact design fits nicely on most patios or decks.
Blackstone 1555 Tailgater Portable Gas Grill and Griddle Combo
- Specs: 477 sq. in. cooking surface, 2 burners, 35,000 BTU, adjustable legs.
- Why It’s Great: A portable hybrid for tailgates or campsites. Grill burgers on one side, griddle pancakes on the other—rugged and easy to clean with a grease trap.
- Status: Still kicking in 2025—a go-to for on-the-go grillers.
The side table of our camping griddle can be used for placing serving spoons and spices, so everything you need for whipping a delicious spread is accessible and in reach.
Weber Spirit II E-310 Gas Grill
- Specs: 529 sq. in. total cooking area (424 main, 105 warming), 3 burners, 30,000 BTU.
- Why It’s Great: A step-up gas grill with even heat and a sleek design. It’s got a fuel gauge, cast-iron grates, and a 10-year warranty—built for the long haul.
- Why Added: Balances size and power for growing families; a 2025 bestseller.
Built to last with heavy duty, porcelain-enameled lid and cookbox that won’t rust or peal over time
George Foreman Indoor/Outdoor Electric Grill
- Specs: 240 sq. in. cooking surface, adjustable temp control, nonstick coating.
- Why It’s Great: A compact electric option for patios or balconies. Heats fast, cleans easy, and doubles as an indoor grill with its stand removed.
- Why Added: Perfect for small spaces or flame-restricted areas in 2025.
12 PLUS SERVINGS – It’s tailgate time! The 200 square inches of rectangular grilling surface lets you make over 12 servings for large groups of people
Traeger Ranger Portable Pellet Grill
- Specs: 184 sq. in. cooking area, digital temp control, 8-lb. hopper capacity.
- Why It’s Great: A pellet grill for smoky flavor on the move. It’s small but precise, with a keep-warm mode and meat probe included.
- Why Added: Expands fuel options—pellet grills are trending in 2025 for their versatility.
Advanced Grilling Logic Ensures Consistent Heat – Enjoy perfectly cooked meals every time with the Advanced Grilling Logic system, providing consistent heat and optimal temperature. Great for tailgating or small outdoor spaces.
Tips for Extending the Life of Your Outdoor Grill
Maximize your grill’s lifespan with these pro tips:
- Clean Religiously: Brush grates after every use to banish grease. Deep-clean monthly with a grill cleaner to fend off rust—burners and drip pans included.
- Check Gas Gears: For gas grills, inspect hoses and fittings for cracks or leaks before each season. Swap out anything sketchy—safety first.
- Cover It Up: A weatherproof cover shields against rain, sun, and dust. Look for UV-resistant, heavy-duty fabric with snug ties.
- Store Smart: If winter’s harsh, stash your grill in a shed or garage. Detach propane tanks and store them upright in a cool, dry spot.
- Mind the Surroundings: Keep flammables (leaves, paper) away, and never leave a lit grill solo—basic but critical.
Bonus: Grill Like a Pro in 2025
- Preheat Properly: Gas grills need 10-15 minutes, charcoal 20-30—don’t rush it for even cooking.
- Zone Cooking: Set up hot and cool zones (direct/indirect heat) for control—sear steaks, then finish slow.
- Tool Up: Grab tongs, a grill brush, and a meat thermometer (aim for 165°F for chicken, 135°F for medium-rare steak).
FAQs About The Best Outdoor Grills in 2025
Weber consistently ranks as a top contender for its durability, performance, and customer support. Models like the Weber Spirit II E-310 and Original Kettle Premium shine in 2025 for their reliability and versatility—perfect for gas or charcoal fans alike.
Late summer to early fall (August to October) often brings the deepest discounts as retailers clear inventory post-peak BBQ season. That said, spring 2025 sales (April-May) can also score you deals on new models before the rush.
It depends on your grilling habits. A $500+ grill (like the Weber Spirit II E-310) offers better build quality, even heat, and longevity—think 10+ years with care—versus a $150 model that might need replacing in 3-5 years. For frequent grillers, the investment pays off.
With regular maintenance—cleaning grates, checking gas lines, and using a cover—a quality grill can last 5-15 years. Charcoal grills like the Weber Kettle often hit the higher end, while gas grills average 7-10 years with part replacements.
