Hot dang, folks! Can you believe it’s 2023 and we’re already in grilling season? Feels like yesterday when we were storing our grills away for the winter, I’ll tell you that. They say the older you get, the more time flies, and they sure ain’t lying.
If you’re anything like me, you live for the hiss and sizzle of a juicy burger cooking on the grill. But let’s be real, y’all, not all grills are created equal when it comes to cooking up the perfect patty. That’s why we’ve rounded up the very best grills for burgers that are sure to have your taste buds dancing and your neighbors salivating!
From charcoal to gas to wood pellet grills and others, there are tons of options for every taste and budget out there. But which one’s right for you? Do not fear, for we have done the due diligence and rounded those grills up for you to help you find the best one for your needs.
Best Grills for Burgers
We’ve rounded up the cream of the crop for every type of grill, searching for units with a sturdy build, plenty of cooking surface, good temperature control, and no-fuss cleanup, and — of course — the ability to impart that unmistakable smoky flavor we all crave and long for.
Our picks:
- Best gas grill
- Best charcoal grill
- Best pellet grill
- Best electric grill
For the details, read on below.
Best Gas Grill
- 30,000 BTUs of cooking power
- 8,000-BTU burner on the left side shelf
- Three stainless steel burners with heat plates
- 360 sq. in. porcelain-coated main cooking grate
- 170 sq. in. swing-away warming rack
- Stainless steel lid and firebox
- Piezoelectric ignition
If you’re looking for a mighty fine liquid propane grill that won’t break the bank, look no further than the Char-Broil Classic 360.
This grill packs a punch with its 30,000 BTUs of cooking power and 360 square inches of cooking space. That’s enough room to cook up a whole mess of burgers for the whole family!
The Char-Broil Classic 360 sports three stainless steel burners that evenly distribute heat across the porcelain-coated cooking grate measuring 26-inches wide by 14-inches deep. This helps cook your burgers to perfection every time, with that delicious smoky flavor that we all know and love.
This here liquid propane grill also boasts a swing-away warming rack that measures 24 inches wide by 7 inches deep, providing you with an additional 170 square inches of cooking space for indirect cooking or keeping your just-cooked burgers warm and toasty while you finish up the rest of the meal.
The lid and firebox of this Char-Broil are made of porcelain-coated steel, which stands the test of time. It can also stand up to the roughest of weather conditions. And with its piezoelectric startup, you can get grilling with just the flick of a button.
Plus, the 8,000-BTU side burner on the left rack is perfect for keeping your sauces, soups, and stews warm while you’re grilling up the main course. Last but not least, the Char-Broil Classic 360 is a breeze to move around thanks to its pair of sturdy 6-inch wheels. When you’re done grilling, simply wheel it away to your shed or garage until next time.
The best part?
It’s one of the most affordable gas grills on the market. But don’t take my word for it; go on over and check out that price for yourselves.
- 30,000 BTUs of cooking power
- 3 stainless-steel burners with flavorizer bars
- 424 sq. in. porcelain-enameled cast iron grate
- 105 sq. in. warming rack to keep cooked foods nice and hot
- Folding side tables with six integrated utensil hooks
- Piezoelectric ignition
If our top pick is out of stock or you’re looking for an alternative, our runner-up is none other than the Weber Spirit II E-310. This sturdy and spacious liquid propane grill from Weber is sure to impress even the most discerning of grill masters.
With three burners that pack a solid 30,000 BTUs of power, this grill boasts a primary cooking area of 424 square inches, as well as a warming rack that totals 105 square inches.
And let me tell you, the angled cross-section on the porcelain-enameled grill grate of the Weber Spirit II E-310 grill imparts the most formidable grill marks to your burger buns, steaks, and chicken breasts that is sure to have your taste buds singing. You can get this grill with liquid propane or natural gas (just make sure to choose the right option at checkout if you order online).
According to Weber, this bad boy can cook as many as 15 burgers at the same time, making it the perfect choice for larger families or backyard gatherings. And with two side tables, you can keep all of your foods and supplies handy while you’re grilling up a storm.
Like our top pick, the Weber Spirit II E-310 also comes equipped with two durable all-weather wheels, making it easy to move around your backyard or patio. And with its piezoelectric ignition powered by two AA batteries, you can get grilling in a jiff.
All in all, worthy runner-up that will have you cooking up delicious burgers, steaks, and more in no time — if more expensive than our number one. With Weber, at least you always get your money’s worth. So fire up the grill and get ready to impress the kids and missus with your grilling prowess!
Best Charcoal Grill
- 363 sq. in. of cooking area
- Plated steel hinged cooking grate
- Porcelain-enameled lid and bowl stand the test of time
- One-Touch cleaning system for easy clean-up
- Built-in thermometer, lid hook, tool hooks
If you’re a purist who prefers the smoky flavor of charcoal grilling, then the Weber Original Kettle is truly the best of the bunch. After all, Weber invented the kettle grill in the 1950s, and its kettle grills have been unsurpassed since then.
The Weber kettle grill is a classic 22-inch diameter kettle with 363 square inches of cooking area on plated steel grates, enough to fit 13 burgers according to Weber. And let me tell you, this grill can cook up a storm with its aluminum vent that allows you to control the cooking temp with precision, so you can achieve that perfect sear and smoky flavor every time.
The porcelain-enameled lid and bowl of the Weber Original Kettle retain heat like a champ and don’t rust, peel, or crack, which means you can enjoy years of grilling without having to worry about replacing your grill.
And the One-Touch cleaning system on this here grill allows you to clean it without fuss. Simply rotate the handle, and three blades inside the kettle will sweep the dust and coal debris into the ash catcher below, making cleaning up after your grilling adventures a breeze.
All in all, the Weber Original Kettle is a classic grill that delivers excellent results every time. Grab a bag of charcoal, fire up the grill, and get ready to impress your family and friends with your smoky and delicious burgers, ribs, and chicken — with the Weber Original Kettle, you cannot go wrong!
- 393 sq. in. cooking grates and 205 sq. in. warming rack
- Height-adjustable charcoal pan for heat control
- Built-in thermometer and stay-cool lid handle
- Two fixed side tables for extra storage
- Pull-out ash drawer
Looking for a different option than our top pick? Then the Royal Gourmet CD1824AC Charcoal Grill, our runner-up pick, is a formidable choice. With 393 square inches of cooking grates and a 205 square inch warming rack, this grill has ample space to cook up your favorite burgers, steaks, and other grilled goodies.
The height-adjustable charcoal pan on the front of the grill allows for precise heat control — letting you lower the charcoal pan or raise it closer to the food if needed — giving you the freedom to cook your meat to perfection. A built-in thermometer and stay-cool lid handle make it easy to monitor and adjust the temperature while you cook. The two fixed side tables provide additional storage space for utensils, seasonings, and more.
Cleanup is also a breeze with the Royal Gourmet CD1824AC Charcoal Grill, thanks to its pull-out ash drawer. Simply slide it out and dispose of the ash, and you’re ready for your next cookout. Overall, this runner-up option is a great choice for those seeking a versatile, reliable, and affordable outdoor grill.
Best Pellet Grill
- 572 sq. in. of total cooking area
- Porcelain-enameled grill grates for heat retention
- Digital controller maintains cooking temperatures with +/- 15°F of precision
- Steel construction with powder-coated finish
- All-weather, all-terrain wheels
If you’re looking for a versatile grill that can do it all, look no further than the Traeger Grills Pro Series 22.
This grill is a top-of-the-line pellet grill that lets you grill, smoke, bake, and roast all kinds of food with the delicious flavor of hardwood pellets. The total cooking area is 572 square inches — 418 square inches on the main grate and 154 square inches on the auxiliary grate on top — enough to squeeze in 24 burger patties in the same batch.
One of the key features of this grill is its porcelain-enameled grill grates, which keep food from sticking and retain heat like a champ.
With a separate firebox and the ability to reach temperatures in the cooking chamber of up to 450°F, this grill is capable of cooking low and slow as well as delivering a mean sear on those burgers. And with its digital controller, which can maintain a temperature with precision of +/- 15°F, you can set it, forget it, and let the grill do the work for you.
The Traeger Grills Pro Series 22 is also easy to assemble, with just 22 parts and an advertised assembly time of 30 to 60 minutes according to Traeger. And with its steel construction and durable, powder-coated finish, this wood pellet grill is built to withstand the test of time, giving you years of delicious meals to come.
- 465 sq. in. combined cooking space
- Porcelain-coated top and bottom cooking grates
- Stainless steel construction with powder-coat finish
- Cooking chamber with fan-forced convection cooking
- Digital control panel with LED readout
- Removable side shelf
- All-weather wheels
If you’re in the market for a wood pellet grill that can cook up a storm, the Pit Boss 440 is definitely worth a closer look.
This wood pellet grill grill has two porcelain-enameled cooking grates with a total cooking area of 465 square inches — so you can cook up a large meal for your family or friends without breaking a sweat. With 341 square inches on the bottom rack and 124 square inches on the top rack, you have plenty of room to smoke or grill up to 19 burgers at once.
The firebox of the PB440 features fan-forced convection cooking and a digital controller that can maintain temperatures between 180°F and 500°F, so you can cook your food low and slow or hot and fast with ease. What’s more, the Pit Boss Flame Broiler lever allows you to sear meats at a high temperature, as high as 1,000°F, giving your food that perfect crust that everyone loves.
With a sturdy build and stainless steel construction sporting a powder-coat finish, the Pit Boss 440 is built to last. The lid thermometer and stainless steel side shelf with lid hooks provide added convenience, making it easier for you to cook up a storm without having to constantly leave your grill.
Best Electric Grill
- 1,560-Watt electric heating element
- 189 sq. in. porcelain-enameled cast iron cooking grates
- Cast aluminum lid and body for superior heat retention
- Fully assembled out of box
- 6-foot grounded cord
Our pick for the best electric grill is the Weber Q 1400 Electric Grill. It’s ideal for those who want to enjoy the convenience of grilling without the hassle of propane tanks, charcoal, or wood pellets.
This little 1,560-Watt electric grill features porcelain-enameled cast iron cooking grates, which hold on to heat and prevent food from sticking to the grill, with a total cooking area of 189 square inches, which is perfect for grilling up to six burger patties at once.
One of the most significant advantages of this electric grill is its compact and lightweight design, making it easy to store away when not in use. Additionally, its 6-foot grounded cord allows you to plug it into the nearest available power outlet, providing the flexibility to grill anywhere there’s an outlet.
Another great feature of the Weber Q 1400 Electric Grill is that it’s fully assembled and ready to use right out of the box. This is ideal for those who live in residences where gas, charcoal, or wood pellet grilling isn’t necessarily an option.
To give you the long and the short of it, the electric grill is a great option for those looking for an easy and convenient grilling experience, whether indoors or outdoors, without sacrificing flavor or cooking power.
- 1,600-Watt electric heating element
- 240 sq. in. non-stick coated cooking grates
- The grate is completely removable for hassle-free clean-up
- Removable stand for outdoor use
The George Foreman Electric Grill is a beloved classic that has been a favorite of American grill enthusiasts since its debut in the 1990s.
This 1,600-Watt electric grill is particularly good at producing great-tasting burgers and handling the grease that drips from the meat with ease. With non-stick coated grates offering 240 square inches of cooking space (a little more than our top pick, but we prefer porcelain enamel to non-stick coatings), you can cook up to 15 servings at once.
The George Foreman Electric Grill has a removable stand with five sturdy feet, allowing you to grill anywhere — from the kitchen countertop to the backyard patio to the balcony in your apartment building. It’s compact and lightweight, easy to move around, and the non-stick coating on the grates makes it a cinch to clean up.
Whether our top pick is out of stock or you’re the type of buyer who likes to consider at least two options, this grill is still a great option for those who are looking for an electric grill that is affordable, easy to use, and produces delicious results.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Grill
Well, now, we’ve gone over some fantastic options for grilling up some delicious burgers, wouldn’t you say? Of course, choosing the right one for you can be a challenge, especially if you’re not sure what type of grill is best for your needs.
Here’s a brief overview of the different types of grills — and their pros and cons — so you can make an informed decision.
To make a long story short:
- Gas grills are easier to use and deliver steady, even heat after preheating.
- Charcoal and wood pellet grills provide the best flavor, with charcoal grills better for searing and wood pellets grills, for cooking low and slow.
- Electric grills are ideal for apartments or condos.
Devil’s in the details, of course, so I encourage you to read on for the rest of our buying guide below.
Gas Grills
First up, we have gas grills. Gas grills are a great choice for those looking for an economical, easy-to-use option. They are incredibly convenient, as you can fire them up quickly and easily, and they maintain a steady, consistent temperature that allows you to grill your burgers evenly from batch to batch. Gas grills are also relatively low-maintenance and easy to clean, making them a favorite among busy homeowners.
As far as the cooking area is concerned, gas grills are sold with grates or a flat top. While flat tops are a decent option for grilling burgers, it’s better to get a grill with regular grates and buy a cast-iron flat top separately. This way, you’ll get more utility out of the grill, as you can use it for a wider range of cooking techniques, from searing and sautéing to grilling and smoking.
For you: Looking for the best of both worlds? Check out our round-up of the best grill and griddle combos!
Charcoal & Wood Pellet Grills
On the other hand, charcoal and pellet grills produce the best flavor for your burgers. These grills infuse your food with the delicious smoky taste and smell of BBQ that we all know and love. Charcoal grills require a bit more time and effort to get started, but the reward, at least in my book, is well worth it.
There’s heated debate between charcoal and wood pellet grills. Charcoal grills are perfect for direct, high-heat cooking, and they offer that traditional smoky taste that we all know and love. However, if you’re in the market for a grill that doubles as a smoker, then you might want to consider a wood pellet grill.
Pellet grills use compressed sawdust pellets as fuel, and they’re specially designed to maintain a steady temperature for slow smoking. With a wood pellet grill, you can enjoy that delicious smoky flavor while also enjoying a convenient set-and-forget cooking experience.
Electric Grills
Finally, we have electric grills. These babies are ideal for those who live in condos or apartment buildings where gas, charcoal, or wood pellet grilling is not allowed. Electric grills are easy to use, and they require little-to-no cleanup. However, they do not get very hot, nor do they produce that smoky flavor that charcoal and pellet grills (and good gas grills with drip bars) are known for.
