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There are two types of gas fuels for grills: natural gas and propane. They have different characteristics, and each one offers unique benefits. That’s why a hybrid gas/propane grill is such a great choice. You can get the best of both worlds.
Natural gas and liquid propane are among the cheapest energy sources in the U.S. So, you’ll spend less in fueling your gas grill than you would with other types of grills or smokers.
However, the best gas/propane grill models are costly to purchase compared to most other types. We’ll give you a detailed checklist that will guide you before you buy. Our goal is to help you get the best hybrid gas grill that checks all the boxes on your list of priorities.
Our Top 3 Favorites
- Easy to assemble and use
- Great, durable design with hardy, long-lasting components
- Warmer rack to keep cooked foods hot
- Lightweight
- Adequate cooking area for medium to large productions
- Convenient side storage space provided
- Dual-fuel capable
- Smoker box for flavoring meat
How to Pick the Best Gas and Propane Grill for Your Needs
Converting a hybrid gas grill is not as simple as merely removing the hosepipe from the propane tank and plugging it into the main line. There are intricate components that will need to be changed for the optimal functioning of the grill and for adherence to all relevant safety standards.
In fact, because of safety considerations, some top-rated brands don’t make conversion kits for any of their gas grill models.
As promised, here are some of the essential features to look for:
Compatible Conversion Kit
A gas grill conversion kit consists of burners, orifices, and valves that are suitable for the secondary fuel. Propane and natural gas are connected to the gas grill using hosepipes of varying sizes. This connectivity means that using the wrong hosepipe and regulator results in a flawed supply of gas to the burners at too high or low pressure.
The model of gas grill you choose must have a compatible conversion kit made by the same manufacturer. This guarantees that the equipment meets safety standards set by the regulator and is safe to use.
Some popular brands such as Weber, Napoleon, and Monument Grills don’t provide conversion kits for their models and advise against converting the gas grills. Still, some third-party manufacturers offer conversion kits that are compatible with all of these models.
If you’ve moved to a new location where natural gas is readily available, while propane is less available, this is a good reason to convert your gas grill to get connected to the main line.
However, if the manufacturer doesn’t make conversion kits, and advises against using one on their models of grills, modifying the fuel type by utilizing a conversion kit from a third-party manufacturer effectively voids the warranty of the gas grill. Therefore, you need to be sure of your decision to convert your single-fuel gas grill (to use dual fuel) if you will be using a kit from a third-party manufacturer.
Cost
Buying a grill, especially one that operates on gas, is a significant purchase for the majority of consumers. Therefore, as a customer, you should shop for a gas grill with excellent quality and value, but that is within your budget.
Fortunately, many brands sell affordable gas grills that are superb and sell for a reasonable price.
A conversion kit also adds to the cost of the grill. The installation of the conversion kit sometimes requires hiring an expert, mainly when it is too complicated for the buyer to put it all together.
Cost
Different grills suit different goals. Your primary goal will determine what kind of grill you should purchase.
You may want a grill for barbecuing in the backyard, outdoor kitchen, car parks, camp cookouts, commercial kitchens, and so on.
Also, you may want a grill that offers versatility, having components that enable you to cook using different techniques such as frying and roasting. This means that you will want to shop for a grill with the required features and accessories (such as a rotisserie).
Size
How big a grill you should buy depends on the size of barbecue productions you’ll be cooking. For the average home of 4 – 6 people, 450 – 500 square inches should suffice.
You’ll also want to ensure that your propane/gas grill has enough burners to support your culinary aspirations. Three or more burners are efficient, but you may add an extra burner for every additional 100 square inches of grilling surface.
BTU Rating
The standard heat measure on most appliances is the British Thermal Unit (BTU).
It’s vital to know the BTU rating of your chosen grill to ensure that it can achieve the right temperatures for your preferred style of grilling. Some grills show high BTU numbers, but it doesn’t always mean that they’re more efficient.
The general rule of thumb is to calculate your cookers BTUs per square inch of cooking space. A BTU rating of 80 – 100 per square inch will suffice, and any more than that is not necessary.
Extra Features
Are these necessary? Well, it all depends on what features are important to you.
Ask yourself if you’ll need side burners for heating side dishes and sauces, a grill cover, smoker attachment, extra prep space, storage, or a rotisserie.
Accessories are optional, so it’s really up to you what you need. Also, they tend to raise the price of the grill, so only go for those extra features that you think will really enhance your grilling experience.
Read Also: Affordable Grills Under $400.
Reviews of the Top 7 Gas/Propane Grills
Key Features:
- Dual fuel: Compatible with a natural gas conversion kit
- Grilling area: 425 square inches
- BTU rating: 24,000
- Dimensions: 27.6 x 49.8 x 46.3 inches
- Weight: 120 lbs.
The Char-Broil Signature Gas Grill made it to the top of our list because of its premium build and durability due to its sturdy stainless steel construction.
This grill features three 24,000-BTU burners with a total cooking area of 425 square inches and an additional 13,000-BTU lidded side burner for cooking those sauces and side dishes. What’s more, you won’t have to worry about your cooked foods getting cold: simply keep them warm in the attached 165-square-inch warming rack until they’re ready to serve.
The high-quality stainless-steel V-shaped firebox and top-ported inline burners provide durable, top-notch performance. They offer precise control and accuracy over a wide temperature range. This dual-compatible gas grill also provides versatility. It includes a tank gauge that monitors propane levels (to help you avoid running out of gas mid-cook), and it works with a separate conversion kit to switch from LP gas to natural gas effortlessly.
Tool and accessory storage comes as standard, offering space and convenience. Also, there’s a removable grease pan and grease tray for easy cleanup. And the four caster wheels make for easy mobility and maneuverability.
Pros
- Easy to assemble and use
- Great, durable design with hardy, long-lasting components
- Warmer rack to keep cooked foods hot
- Removable tray for easy cleanup of charcoal and ash
Cons
- It is prone to flare-ups
- It is a challenge to assemble
Key Features:
- Dual fuel: Compatible with a natural gas conversion kit
- Grilling area: 476 sq. inches
- BTU rating: 30,000
- Dimensions: 54.1 x 23.3 x 46.4 inches
- Weight: 72.8 lbs.
The Kenmore 4-burner Propane Grill comprises a stainless steel grill and a black body cart. It is impressively light, weighing in at only 72.8 lbs., making it easy to move around.
The 476 square inches of cooking area features sturdy stainless steel grids with the warming rack making up an extra 168 square inches. A hardy stainless steel lid encloses the cooking area. The cover also features a mounted temperature gauge for monitoring grilling temperatures.
Below the cooking grids are four burner tubes and an extra lidded burner (on the side) that offers convenience in cooking and storage.
The stainless steel grill panel has burner control knobs and an easy press-to-spark electronic ignition button. And the slide-out grease drip pan makes cleaning a cinch.
Most importantly, the propane grill can also use natural gas for a constant energy supply. A unique natural gas conversion kit, purchased separately, replaces the propane components.
Pros
- Dual fuel by use of a conversion kit
- Lightweight
- Adequate cooking area for medium to large productions
- Warming rack keeps cooked foods warm
- Convenient side storage space provided
- Easy ignition process
Cons
- Not rust-resistant
- Not very mobile (somewhat difficult to maneuver)
Key Features:
- Dual fuel: Compatible with a propane conversion kit
- Grilling area: 830 square inches
- BTU rating: 75,000
- Dimensions: 24.2 x 32 x 21.5 inches
- Weight: 170 lbs.
The Lion Premium 32” Natural Gas Grill L75000 variant is an excellent built-in gas grill for your indoor or outdoor kitchen. This gas grill operates using natural gas and is easy to install.
With a sturdy stainless-steel body, this 170-pound gas grill will last for many years. The lid top features a convenient gauge for easily checking the temperature inside the grill.
The 647 square inches of primary grilling space and the 183 square inches of secondary grilling space add up to a total of 830 square inches, ample space to cook for a crowd.
The cooking grates are made of solid stainless steel and sit over four burners made of cast stainless steel and an infrared rotisserie rear burner. The rotisserie kit is geared and holds up to 40 lbs.
Above the rotisserie kit is an adjustable stainless-steel warming rack, coupled with a double-layered smoker head made of stainless steel (and beautifully polished along the edges).
Under the lid are unique dual lights for illumination when cooking in darker conditions. The grill panel consists of five shiny stainless steel control knobs that add an element of elegance to the grill.
This grill has a specific conversion kit made by the manufacturer if you wish to convert from natural gas to propane for your outdoor kitchen.
See our complete list of the best built-in gas grill reviews.
Pros
- Dual-fuel capable
- Smoker box for flavoring meat
- Infrared burner for precision cooking on the rotisserie
- Easy to use controls
- Dual interior lights for grilling in the dark
Cons
- Expensive
- Heavy and difficult to move
Key Features:
- Dual fuel: Compatible with a natural gas conversion kit
- Grilling area: 582.19 square inches
- BTU rating: 60,000
- Dimensions: 58.11 × 24.41 × 46.57 inches
- Weight: 101.4 lbs.
If you find yourself hosting a crowd, you’ll need a gas grill that can handle the task. This impressively-designed cabinet-style deluxe grill from Nexgrill fits the requirements of cooking for large gatherings.
It features six burners that supply steady heat to the main cooking area, measuring 582.19 square inches. Reliable press-to-start electronic ignition also kindles the flames of the burners.
Above the burners are angled stainless steel flame tamers that evenly distribute heat to the cooking area and instantly vaporize juices that drip from the surface, sending it back as smoke to add flavor to the meat.
The cooking grates are made of cast iron (with a matte finish) to ensure durability and to retain heat for even grilling. A stainless-steel side burner offers convenience, versatility, and extra cooking space. And even more work, prep, and storage space are available on the opposite side shelf.
A hardy lid top—with a mounted temperature gauge—encloses the grilling area. The stylish cabinet design of the gas grill encompasses the LP tank and provides more room for storage. Four swivel casters move the grill, with two swivels locking for support.
The Nexgrill Deluxe 6-Burner propane grill is dual-fuel compatible. A natural gas conversion kit modifies the grill to get a constant fuel supply from the main line.
Pros
- Dual-fuel capable
- Adequate cooking area
- Cooking grates ensure even cooking and searing
- Warming rack keeps already-made food warm
- Flame tamers evenly spread the flames, add smoke flavor to your meat, and prevent flare-ups
Cons
- Made of low-grade stainless steel that isn’t extremely durable
- Susceptible to rusting
Key Features:
- Dual fuel: Compatible with a natural gas conversion kit
- Grilling area: 484 square inches
- BTU rating: 48,000
- Dimensions: 24.8 x 50.4 x 48.6 inches
- Weight: 123.3 lbs.
The stainless steel slate finish of the KitchenAid 720-0953A Propane Gas Grill is alluring. It also packs some amazing features that maximize performance and convenience.
The main cooking area makes up 484 square inches and has three cooking grates made of stainless steel that evenly heat the meat. The warming rack on top provides 161 square inches of cooking area to keep already-cooked food warm, or to cook food at low temperatures.
Three conventional burners sit beneath angled flame tamers that distribute the heat evenly to the cooking surface. The flame tamers also prevent flare-ups by turning grease drippings into flavor vapor, infusing foods with a delightful smoky flavor.
On the sides of the main cooking area are folding shelves that provide storage, work, and prep space when grilling. One side features a single enclosed burner that offers the convenience of cooking other dishes while grilling.
The elegant front panel of the KitchenAid propane gas grill has an electronic ignition button, three control knobs for the three burners, and one on the side shelf for the single burner.
The cabinet body houses the 20 lb. propane tank and provides extra cooking space (and is enclosed by dual doors). The cabinet grill has small wheels, which may not be ideal for moving the grill on a rough surface.
While it uses propane as the primary fuel, the grill offers the convenience of dual fuels. It can run on natural gas when connected to the main line, but it’s necessary to use a conversion kit to change the fuel components of the grill.
Pros
- Dual-fuel capable
- Cumulative 645 square inches of adequate cooking area
- Warming rack keeps already-cooked food warm and cooks food on low heat
- Work, prep, and storage space provided
- Durable and long-lasting
Cons
- The grill grates are not solid stainless steel (which makes them less durable)
- Small wheels limit portability
Key Features:
- Dual fuel: Compatible with VersiFuel conversion kit
- Grilling area: 480 square inches
- BTU rating: 48,000
- Dimensions: 46.3 × 24.3 × 54.4 inches
- Weight: 46 lbs.
This RevoAce 4-Burner LP Gas Grill has an open cart design with materials made to last.
The RevoAce grill’s four stainless steel burners—kindled by the grill’s integrated ignition—supply heat to 480 square inches of cooking space.
The gas grill has heat flamers for preventing flare-ups by vaporizing grease drips, with the smoke vapors adding extra flavor. They are also used to evenly distribute the flames across the cooking surface.
The primary cooking surface consists of a porcelain cast iron cooking grid that retains heat for an even cook. The warming rack consists of 180 square inches of porcelain steel wire.
It has a steel front panel comprising five nickel-plated control knobs. The side shelves provide work and prep space, with one shelf having a hook for tools and the other shelf an enclosed side burner.
With drinks such as bottled beers and sodas accompanying most barbecues, a bottle opener on the gas grill comes in handy. The front part of the grill consists of an attractive pewter steel, while the rear part houses the propane tank and grease tray.
Two plastic wheels move the cart, with the opposite side providing support to hold the grill in place.
With the VersiFuel conversion kit, this RevoAce gas grill can use natural gas.
Pros
- Dual-fuel capable
- Easy to assemble
- Cooking grid evenly distributes heat
- Minimal flare-ups
- Warming rack for keeping food warm, or cooking at a low temperature
- Portable
Cons
- Users have experienced gas leaks
- The body construction isn’t particularly durable
Key Features:
- Dual fuel: Compatible with an included natural gas conversion kit
- Grilling area: 580 square inches
- BTU rating: 61,000
- Dimensions: 24.5 × 34.2 × 25.7 inches
- Weight: 110.44 lbs.
This KitchenAid built-in gas grill offers features adequate for outdoor kitchen barbecuing for bigger groups. It is entirely built of stainless steel and weighs 93.5 lbs. It is also easy to assemble.
The cooking space measures 580 square inches and comprises three cooking grates. Four conventional stainless-steel burners heat the cooking area, kindled by the grill’s electronic ignition system.
A rotisserie rear burner is available for spit-roasting meat. Above the back-rotisserie-burner is a warming rack making up 195 square inches to keep entrées warm.
The lid top encloses the grill, and on it is a mounted thermometer for gauging the temperature inside the grill. For the convenience of connecting this LP grill to your main line, it comes with a natural gas conversion kit.
Pros
- Easy to assemble
- Dual-fuel capable
- Quick ignition, guaranteed to spark every time
- Ample cooking space
- Easy control knobs and temperature gauge for precise cooking
Cons
- The racks can be challenging to keep clean
- Internal heat is hard to control
Final Thoughts: The Best 6 Gas and Propane Grills
We hope our review of the best propane/gas grill models on the market has left you well-equipped to pick the best brand and model for you.
We took a look at several models and compared their performance, heat rating, size, specs, and more. The Char-Broil Signature Series 3-Burner Gas Grill came out on top because of its superior performance, sturdy build, and convenient zonal cooking.
It also features a high-quality stainless-steel V-shaped firebox, a tank gauge that monitors LP gas levels, and surefire electronic ignition, which consistently provides a quick start-up. Cleaning this unit is also easier due to the attached removable grease pan. Best of all, it is very reasonably priced.
Do you agree with our top choice of propane/gas grill? Do you own a propane/gas grill, or have you used them before? Please engage us in the comments below. We’d love to hear your opinions.
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