Best Gas Grills Under $300 in 2023 – Reviews & Buying Guide
Gas grills can be pricey. But, this doesn’t mean you have to break the bank to get a dependable, solid one. There are many gas grills available under $300 that offer excellent features and provide nicely cooked food.
So, to help you find a gas grill in this budget, we have compiled a list of the best gas grills under 300. There is also a buyer’s guide to help you better understand what you need to look for when searching for the best gas grills under $300.
At A Glance Gas Grills Under $300
Top 6 Best Gas Grills Under $300 [2023 Reviews]
1. Char-Broil 463673519 2-Burner Propane Gas Grill – (Best Overall)
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- 2 burners
- 24,000 BTUs total output
- Swing-away cooking area
- Stainless steel lid
- Two foldable metal shelves
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If you have limited space, you should go for a gas grill that has a compact design. This will make sure you have plenty of clearance around the grill. And the Char-Broil 463673519 Performance Series 2-Burner fit this description with its sleek and stylish design.
It comes with two burners that can produce 24,000 BTUs combined. The main 300 square inches cooking space and an additional 100 square inches swing-away cooking area have cast-iron grates along with a porcelain coating. This makes sure your food gets evenly heated and does not have hot or cold spots. The UFC and the lid are made from stainless steel, which provides durability.
The lid also features a mounted temperature gauge that helps you monitor the heat without opening the lid. Due to the electric ignition system, the start-up is fast and easy. The removable grease pan can be easily cleaned and replaced. There are two foldable metal side shelves that offer extra prep and workspace, and the storage cabinet keeps the propane tank hidden conveniently.
The grill sits on 4 casters, two of which lock for stability and mobility. The Char-Broil Performance 300 is our top choice for the best propane gas grills under $300 as it is small and compact, but considering its price, it still packs high-performance efficiency.
[dpressall_pros_cons pros_text=”
- Stylish and Durable Design
- Two stainless-steel burners deliver 24,000 BTUs
- Porcelain-coated cast iron grills
- Foldable metal side shelves
- Built-In Lid temperature gauge
- Easier mobility with four casters
- Value for money
” cons_text=”
- Rather small cooking area
” /]
2. Char-Broil 463377319 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill – (Runner-Up)
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- Stylish and Durable Design
- Two stainless-steel burners deliver 24,000 BTUs
- Porcelain-coated cast iron grills
- Foldable metal side shelves
- Built-In Lid temperature gauge
- Easier mobility with four casters
- Value for money
” /]
The comfortably sized Char-Broil 463377319 offers 425 square inches of primary cooking area along with an additional swing-away secondary cooking surface area of 150 square inches. The main burner can generate 36,000 BTUs, so it is quite powerful. There is also a stainless steel side-burner with lid that can produce 10,000 BTUs.
The grill features rust-resistant porcelain-coated cast-iron grates that promote even and consistent cooking. These are paired with four top-ported stainless steel burners made for precise temperature control for fine-tuning your cook. The grease pan is also porcelain-coated for durability and can be removed for easy cleaning.
Firing up the grill is similarly easy with the electric ignition system, which quickly starts up the grill and gets to the right temperature fast. So, you don’t have to wait long to start cooking your food. And when you are cooking other items, you can use the warming rack that swings away to keep your foods hot. There are also stainless steel side shelves that offer ample prep and workspace.
The lid of the grill features a temperature gauge, which provides heat monitoring and control without opening the lid. The whole grill stands on two 7-inch wheels for easy mobility, while two fixed feet keep it in place. All these excellent features of this grill make it one of the best rated gas grills under 300.
[dpressall_pros_cons pros_text=”
- Evenly distributes heat
- Side burner with lid
- Additional side shelf for prep
- Hidden bottom shelf for storing gas tanks and utensils
- Two heavy-duty casters
- Easy clean pan
- Slick modern design
” cons_text=”
- Some may find the assembly challenging
” /]
3. Coleman RoadTrip 285 Portable Propane Grill – (Best Value)
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- 3 independent burners
- Total 285 square inches of cooking area
- Up to 20,000 total BTUs
- Push-button ignition
- Built-in thermometer
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The Coleman RoadTrip 285 can easily be considered as one of the best portable propane grills with 2 rugged wheels and quick-fold legs. It offers 285 square inches of the cooking area and can output grilling power of up to 20,000 BTUs. There are 3 burners that can be adjusted independently, so you will have powerful precision when selecting grilling temperature.
The push-button for instant start ignition ensures no match is needed for start-up. On the lid, there is an integrated thermometer that helps to keep the right temperature for your meat. The grill features 2 side tables for sauces and utensils. This portable model also includes a water pan that catches grease drips while cooking, and you can easily remove it for cleaning.
The cast iron grill grates can be changed effortlessly with griddles or stove grates for more meal options. The compact and sturdy design comes with a lockable lid, so it is safer to set up and transport. The improved burner provides 20% better control over grilling. Despite being a small portable grill, the Coleman RoadTrip 285 Portable combines efficient cooking and versatile features at an affordable price.
[dpressall_pros_cons pros_text=”
- 3 independently adjustable burners
- Foldable legs and wheels for better portability
- Swaptop interchangeable cooktops
- 2 durable side tables
- Locking lid for safe transport
- Integrated thermometer
” cons_text=”
- Many customers complained of poor build quality
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4. Char-Broil Signature TRU-Infrared 325 2-Burner Propane Gas Grill
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- Infrared grills
- 300 square inches of main cooking space
- 120 square inches of swing away warming rack
- Delivers 18,000 BTUs
- Surefire electronic ignition system
” /]
The Char-Broil Signature TRU-Infrared 325 is an excellent option for anyone looking for an infrared propane grill at an affordable price. Infrared grills provide very effective and even heating for grilling. Plus, they are capable of putting out really high heat, so when you are trying to get a perfect sear on a steak, this will come in handy.
This grill has over 300 square inches of primary cooking space, plus a swing away warming rack of 120 square inches above the cooking grate. The main burner can put out 18,000 BTUs and to start that, there is Surefire electronic ignition system. Stainless steel burners ensure durability over time and provide good heat.
An excellent feature of this grill is its ability to use either liquid propane or natural gas. With the separately sold natural gas conversion kit, you can switch the grill to run right off the natural gas in your home, making it one of the best natural gas grills under 300. The steel firebox stand and lid have a durable porcelain coating to withstand the weather.
The lid also features a mounted temperature gauge to help in heat control and monitor the temperature of the food inside. Large stainless steel enclosed storage cabinet allows for additional storage of various items. And for more space, there are two foldable side shelves. The grill sits on 4 casters for increased mobility, and two of which lock for stability.
[dpressall_pros_cons pros_text=”
- High-quality build
- Infrared or conventional grilling options
- Can use propane and natural gas for fuel
- Surefire Electronic ignition system
- Enclosed storage cabinet
- Two foldable side shelves
” cons_text=”
- Not an ideal choice for large groups
” /]
5. Weber Q2200 Liquid Propane Grill
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- Stainless steel burner
- 280 Square Inches cooking area
- Puts out 12,000 BTUs
- Built-in thermometer
- Electronic ignition system
- Folding side tables
” /]
Along with versatile features, the Weber Q2200 offers a great aesthetic as well. This small grill comes with a total of 280 square inches of the cooking space with a warming rack. The stainless steel burner can put out 12,000 BTUs of heating power.
This grill has an infinite control burner valve setting and an easy and quick electronic ignition system. The solid cast aluminum construction prevents corrosion or rusts, and the glass-reinforced nylon frame provides durability. The cast-iron cooking, porcelain-enameled grates as well as the removable catch pan are easy to maintain and clean. The lid and the body are made out of cast aluminum. There is a built-in thermometer on the lid for monitoring the heat.
Moreover, the side shelves provide more storage space and can be folded and tucked away. This grill is an ideal choice for limited space. It doesn’t take much time to assemble, so you can take to camp or road trips. The Weber Q2200 Grill is a compact and portable choice, making it one of the best grills under 300.
[dpressall_pros_cons pros_text=”
- Lightweight and compact design
- Well-built with quality materials
- Requires limited space
- Infinite control burner valve
- Electronic ignition system
- Foldable shelves with Glass-Reinforced Nylon frame
” cons_text=”
- Not very powerful
- A bit heavy and bulky to move
” /]
Read More About: Weber Q2200
6. Megamaster 720-0983 6 Burner Propane Gas Grill
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- 6 burners
- Delivers 54,000 BTUs
- 543 square inches of main cooking space
- 210 square inches of warming rack
- Electric ignition
” /]
The name says it all; it is really a mega gas grill within the $300 budget. So, if you are looking for a gas grill to host large gatherings or with extra-large capacity, then the Megamaster 720-0983 6 Burner 753 Sq. Inch Propane Gas Grill is the one. This will maximize your cooking area as well as your cooking ability.
This propane gas grill offers six 9,000-BTU burners, capable of providing heat fast and evenly around the 543 square inches of the main cooking surface. This means you get a combined 54,000 BTUs of power to cook your food. There is also a 210 square inches warming rack to provide more working space, which takes the total cooking space to more than 750 square inches.
Along with all these cooking space, the grill also has two side tables that are ideal for preparation and utensils. Due to the electric ignition, the grill is easy to start. It also features a built-in thermometer gauge mounted on the porcelain enamel lid and an accurate temperature heat control system to help you get the best results. The cooking grids are 7mm matte porcelain enamel cast iron.
This is a heavy and bulky grill. However, it is still easy to move around as it has 4 cart legs, two of which have wheels. So, if you are looking for a powerful grill with a huge cooking area, the Megamaster 6 Burner 753 Sq. Inch Propane Gas Grill is a good option.
[dpressall_pros_cons pros_text=”
- 543 square inches of huge cooking space
- 210 square inch warming rack
- Six burners deliver 54,000 BTUs
- Has a built-in thermometer
- Two moveable wheels
” cons_text=”
- Works only on liquid propane
- Side tables are not foldable
” /]
Gas Grills Under $300 Buying Guide:
Can You Really Get a Good Gas Grill for Under $300?
Having a low budget doesn’t mean you will have to settle for a cheap gas grill. While expensive grills come with a huge range of configurations and features, you can still get a good gas grill under $300. Though, you will not get all the features in a single package at this price point. So, it all comes down to your priorities.
Choose the one that has the features you will need. You can look at our abovementioned product. Some of them offer excellent features within this price range.
Cooking Area Size
Your cooking area requirement should be determined by how many mouths you intend to feed. And you also don’t want to overcrowd the grill, as you need clearance to flip the food.
So for most family gatherings, a grill of about 300 square inches should be adequate. For larger gatherings, you will require somewhere 450 to 500 square inches. For additional cooking space, you can look for a grill with a warming rack, which can be used for keeping the food warm.
The Physical Size of the Grill
The footprint of a grill is directly influenced by the size of the cooking surface. Before choosing, you need to ask yourself whether you have the required space or not. A gas grill needs plenty of clearance for the smoke and a level surface to stand on.
If you live in an apartment with a small balcony or have limited space on the patio, you may want to consider a compact gas grill. These compact grills should fit into more grilling areas without compromising quality.
Number of Burners
Usually, the number of burners translates to how much and how fast you can cook at one time. Multiple burners will allow the grill to cook a wider variety of foods at the same time, and hit the temperature quicker. More burners will also allow you to set up different heat zones.
This will enable you to gently slow roast a chicken at one end while searing a steak at the other end.
At under $300 price mark, it is less likely that you will find a grill with six or more burners as more burners often come with more expensive models. However, even just two or three burners are enough to set up different heat zones on a smaller grill. If you still want a gas grill with six burners, you can check out the Megamaster 6 Burner Propane Gas Grill from the above list of best gas grills under 300.
Side Burners, Rotisserie, Warming Rack?
If you want to cook side dishes while cooking your meat, a grill with a side burner could be useful. A side burner can be used to keep the vegetables warm or cook up some rice or pasta to go with the main dish. Some grills have fittings that allow you to attach a rotisserie for chicken, which slowly spit-roast while basting itself.
Sometimes, the secondary cooking surface refers to a warming rack. This rack helps you keep your food warm while you cook other dishes. While this may not be as useful as the primary cooking surface, it can compensate for a smaller cooking area. At least you can keep the bun warm while you cook the burgers.
Easy Access to Gas Tanks
The gas tank of your grill should be easily accessible. You don’t want to go beyond the grill, sometimes a hot grill, just to access the gas tank. Many gas grills have a cabinet below the main firebox and provide easy access doors for the tank.
Flavorizer Bars
Heat diffusing bars, often referred to as flavorizer bars, can take the form of a steel tent that will act as a barrier between the flames of the burner and your food.
The flavorizer bars will catch any dripping from the meat and prevent flare-ups. And as the name suggests, flavorizer bars add flavors as well. If protected by flavorizer bars, the burners will also be easier to clean, and fewer flare-ups will prevent food from burning.
Quality Grill Grates
Only consider a grill that uses either cast iron or stainless steel grates. Flimsy, cheap grates won’t last very long and won’t produce great-cooked food either.
Compared to cast iron, stainless steel grates are much easier to clean, but won’t hold the heat as well. Enameled cast iron grill grates would be the best choice as they offer better heat retention as well as easy-to-clean surface.
Shelving and Storage Space
Look for a grill that offers a cabinet or at least side shelves where you can store the things you will need for your cooking, such as cooking implements, additional accessories, and often seasonings and different ingredients nearby.
A cabinet under the grill will add more storage space without increasing the grill’s physical footprint. And if you have limited space, look for a grill that has fold-down side shelves.
Side shelves can be useful for cutting, marinating, or seasoning your meat as you grill. Sometimes the side burner comes with a lid that also makes it a prep area – make sure you switch it off first.
Materials and Build Quality
For better durability, go for a grill that has cast aluminum or stainless steel construction as they will be less prone to rust. Cheaper or thinner material won’t keep as much heat in and won’t be as durable.
If maintained properly, a well-constructed grill should last for many years.
Portability
Some grills are really heavy and bulky, especially if made with heavy-duty metals. Since you will be moving your grill from indoor to outdoor, and vice versa, look for a grill that features sturdy wheels on its cart. This will make it easy to move. And also, check if it’s lightweight and compact enough to fit in your car’s trunk if you intend to take it on a weekend camping trip.
Conclusion
Having a budget of $300 doesn’t mean you have to settle for a gas grill that lacks your favorite features. From our list of the best gas grills under 300, you will find some great choices with a lot of features to offer. Just consider your cooking needs and space, and select the one that best fits your needs.
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