Grilling is one of the most popular ways to cook food, and gas grills are a great option to make the process quick and easy. While there are plenty of high-end gas grills on the market, not everyone wants to spend a fortune on a grill that they may use only a few times a year. We’ve researched and compiled a list of the best gas grills under $200. While it may be difficult, it is possible to find a high-quality grill at an affordable price. Let’s explore the features, pros, and cons of the top five gas grills under $200 to help you make an informed decision. If you’re have a tight budget this guide is for you.
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Overall Benefits of Owning an Affordable Gas Grill
Finding a quality grill under $200 is beneficial for several reasons. First and foremost, it’s an affordable way to enjoy the benefits of grilling without breaking the bank. Grilling can be an enjoyable and convenient way to enjoy many meals and it’s a popular option for outdoor gatherings and parties. However, not everyone has the budget to invest in an expensive grill.
Additionally, finding a quality grill under $200 can be a great way to get started with grilling if you’re new to it. Starting with a more budget friendly option can give you the opportunity to learn and experiment without the pressure of making a big financial commitment.
Finally, a quality grill under $200 doesn’t have to mean sacrificing on features or durability. There are plenty of options available that offer great value for the price, and can last for many years with proper care and maintenance.
Criteria for Selecting the Best Gas Grill Under $200
When selecting the best gas grills under $200, there are several important criteria to consider.
A. Quality of construction: It’s important to choose a grill that is well-made and durable, with a sturdy frame and high-quality materials. Look for grills with a thick, heavy-duty grill grate, as well as solid and well-constructed burners. A well-constructed grill will last longer and perform better over time, making it a worthwhile investment.
B. Size and cooking surface: The size of the grill and the cooking surface are important factors when choosing a gas grill. If you plan on cooking for a large family or group, look for a grill with a larger cooking surface. However, if you have limited space, a smaller grill may be a better option. Additionally, consider the size and shape of the grill in relation to the amount of space you have available for storage.
C. Number of burners: The number of burners on a gas grill can have a big impact on your grilling experience. More burners generally mean more versatility and control over the cooking process. Keep in mind, a grill with more burners may also come at a higher price point.
D. Portability: If you plan on taking your grill on the go or using it in different locations, portability is an important factor to consider. Look for grills with features like wheels and foldable legs for easy transport.
E. Ease of use: Additionally, ease of use is an important consideration, with features like a built-in ignition system and easy-to-adjust temperature controls making grilling more convenient and enjoyable.
Quick Overview of Top Picks
- Char-Broil Classic 280 2-Burner Gas Grill: Ideal for buyers who want an affordable, compact, and easy-to-use grill with basic features. It’s great for small families or individuals who don’t need a large cooking surface.
- MASTER COOK 3 Burner BBQ Propane Gas Grill: A good choice for someone who is looking for a versatile grill with a large cooking area. It also has a spacious cooking surface that is ideal for preparing meals for large groups.
- Cuisinart CGG-180T Petit Gourmet Portable Tabletop Gas Grill: Best grill for those who prioritize portability and ease of use. It’s great for picnics, camping, and tailgating, and for those who want a lightweight and portable grill that doesn’t take up much space.
- Royal Gourmet PD1301 Portable 3-Burner Propane Gas Grill: This grill is best for buyers who need a larger cooking surface, even heat distribution, and more advanced features such as a built-in thermometer. It’s great for a road trip, backyard barbecues, camping trips, and outdoor gatherings.
- Blackstone Table Top Grill – 17 Inch Portable Gas Griddle: Perfect for consumers who want a versatile and portable grill that can cook a variety of foods. It’s great for outdoor cooking, camping, and tailgating, and for those who want a grill that can handle different types of cooking such as grilling, sautéing, and stir-frying.
The Best Gas Grills Under $200
1. Char-Broil Classic 280 2-Burner Gas Grill with Side Burner
This happens to be our top pick. The Char-Broil Classic 280 liquid propane gas grill is a sturdy and reliable option that provides ample space for cooking delicious meals for the entire family. With a cooking surface of 280 square inches of primary cooking space, this 2-burner grill can accommodate large meals with ease, and features porcelain-coated grates that prevent food from sticking and make cleaning a breeze. Additionally, the 8,000-BTU side burner is perfect for preparing sauces and sides.
The two stainless steel in-line burners are durable and offer strong cooking performance, while the Piezo ignition system ensures fast and reliable startups with the push of a button. The grill also features a metal side shelf for increased storage and prep space. With its 6-inch wheels and fixed legs, the Classic 280 is both portable and stable. Overall, this gas grill is an excellent choice for those seeking a high-quality, affordable option with ample cooking space and easy-to-use features.
Features and specifications:
- Two stainless steel burners
- 280 square inches of cooking space
- Porcelain-coated grates for even heat distribution and easy cleaning
- Piezo ignition system for easy start-ups
- Metal side shelves for extra workspace and tool storage
- Durable steel construction for long-lasting use
- Temperature gauge on lid to monitor cooking temperature
- Two 6-inch wheels for easy mobility
Pros:
- Compact size perfect for small spaces or on-the-go grilling
- Even heat distribution thanks to the porcelain-coated grates
- Durable steel construction for long-lasting use
- Easy-to-use ignition system for quick start-ups
- Metal side shelves provide extra workspace and storage
- Affordable price point
- Includes a side burner
Cons:
- Small cooking area may not be sufficient for larger groups
- Limited temperature control options with only two burners
- Grill grates may rust over time if not properly cared for
2. MASTER COOK 3 Burner BBQ Propane Gas Grill
The MASTER COOK 3 Burner BBQ Propane Gas Grill is a high-quality grill that features three stainless steel burners, capable of putting out 30,000 BTUs of heat per hour. It also includes an integrated piezoelectric ignition system for a quick and easy start-up with the push and turn of a control knob.
The whole stainless steel control panel with chromium plating control knob gives this propane gas grill a sturdy and delicate finish. This propane gas grill is multifunctional and practical, making it a perfect complement to any outdoor space like a backyard, garden, courtyard, terrace, or balcony of most families. It is an excellent alternative for outdoor cooking all year round.
Features and specifications:
- Three stainless steel burners with a total output of 30,000 BTUs per hour
- 340 square inches of primary cooking area and 126 square inches of warming rack area
- Porcelain-coated cast iron cooking grates for even heat distribution and easy cleanup
- Piezo ignition system for easy and reliable startup
- Foldable side shelves for convenient storage and workspace
- Built-in thermometer to monitor cooking temperature
- Two 6-inch wheels and two stationary legs for easy portability and stability
- Propane tank storage cabinet with a door and two access holes for easy installation and removal
- Removable grease tray for easy cleaning
Pros:
- Three burners provide plenty of cooking power and space
- Folding side shelves provide additional workspace and storage when needed
- Built-in thermometer helps monitor the cooking temperature
- Propane tank storage cabinet keeps the tank hidden and easy to access
- Removable grease tray makes cleaning easier
Cons:
- Some users report uneven heat distribution across the cooking grates
- Assembly can be challenging and time-consuming
- The grill cover is sold separately
- The wheels may not roll smoothly on uneven surfaces
- The most expensive on our list
Cuisinart CGG-180T Petit Gourmet Portable Tabletop Gas Grill
This petite, high-performance grill delivers great grilled despite its compact size. The small size offers ultimate convenience, as it can be placed almost anywhere. The cooking grate is ample, making it large enough to cook most family meals with ease. This includes up to 8 steaks, 8 hamburgers, 6-10 chicken breasts, or over 4 lbs. of fish. With its fast heating ability, this grill uses far less gas than a full-sized grill.
It offers excellent portability, enabling you to cook your meals wherever you go, be it the beach, the game, or the campsite. Its folding legs, grill lid latch, generous carry handle, and the spill-resistant drip tray all make it easy to move around.
Features and specifications:
- One stainless steel burner
- 145 square inches of cooking space
- Porcelain-enameled cooking grate for even heat distribution and easy cleaning
- Twist-start ignition system for easy start-ups
- Integrated lid lock for secure transportation
- Folding legs and carrying handle for easy portability and storage
- Lightweight and compact design
Pros:
- Compact size perfect for small spaces or on-the-go grilling
- Even heat distribution thanks to the porcelain-enameled cooking grate
- Durable construction and high-quality materials for long-lasting use
- Easy-to-use twist-start ignition system for quick start-ups
- Integrated lid lock for secure transportation
- Folding legs and carrying handle provide easy portability and storage
- Lightweight and compact design makes it easy to transport
Cons:
- Small cooking area may not be sufficient for larger groups
- Limited temperature control options with only one burner
- Lower BTU output compared to larger grills
Royal Gourmet PD1300 Portable 3-Burner Propane Gas Grill
The Royal Gourmet 3-Burner Portable Gas Griddle is the best option for those who are tired of struggling with heavy and bulky backyard griddles. With its portable design and sturdy feet for stability, it’s perfect for outdoor cooking events like camping, tailgating, or patio BBQs.
The griddle features three round, stainless-steel burners with a total output of 25,500 BTUs and a porcelain enameled griddle top that offers 316 square inches of cooking area. This large space is ideal for cooking a variety of foods like rice, eggs, hash browns, French toast, bacon, and hamburgers.
The durable control panel with piezo ignition system enables quick start-up for easy grilling. The griddle also includes a large grease cup to collect grease residue for easy cleanup after use. It’s easy to assemble, so you can start cooking in no time.
Features and specifications:
- Three stainless steel burners
- 325 square inches of cooking space
- Porcelain-enameled cooking grates for even heat distribution and easy cleaning
- Piezo ignition system for easy start-ups
- Built-in thermometer to monitor cooking temperature
- Folding legs and locking hood for easy portability and storage
- Two side tables for additional workspace
- Removable grease tray for easy cleaning
Pros:
- Large cooking area for grilling for a group
- Even heat distribution thanks to the porcelain-enameled cooking grates
- Durable construction and high-quality materials for long-lasting use
- Easy-to-use ignition system for quick start-ups
- Built-in thermometer for accurate temperature monitoring
- Folding legs and locking hood provide easy portability and storage
- Two side tables provide additional workspace
Cons:
- May be too large and heavy for some users to transport
- Some users report having issues with the legs
Blackstone Table Top Grill – 17 Inch Portable Gas Griddle
This tabletop grill is a versatile cooking solution that lets you cook your favorite meals wherever you go. Whether you’re grilling in the backyard or on a camping trip, this gas top griddle is perfect for on-the-go cooking. With a compact size and functional design, it is easy to carry and ideal for your next adventure.
The height-adjustable rubber feet of the griddle ensure enhanced stability on any surface, making it perfect for outdoor activities on uneven terrain. Measuring only 17.5″ L x 8.5″ H x 18″ W inches, it has a small footprint and is lightweight, making it easy to transport. Despite its size, the griddle offers ample cooking space, allowing you to cook up to 9 burgers, 9 pancakes, or 12 eggs at once, making it an excellent option for feeding two to four people.
The Blackstone Portable Griddle is designed to use a 1 lb. propane bottle or a 20 lb. propane tank with the propane adapter hose with regulator. With a heat output of 12,000 BTUs, the griddle heats up quickly, so you can start cooking almost instantly.
Its spacious cooking surface makes it ideal for a variety of foods, from burgers to pancakes, hot dogs, steaks, stir fry, bacon, and more. Cleaning the RV propane griddle is easy, thanks to the integrated drip-catching tray that collects all the oils and juices from your meat, preventing them from ruining your countertop. All you need to do is slide out the tray, clean it, and wipe the griddle’s cooking surface with a wet towel, and you’re ready to go. With its convenience and ease of use, the Blackstone Portable Griddle is a must-have for any outdoor enthusiast.
Check out our roundup of Blackstone Griddle Recipes.
Features and specifications:
- One stainless steel burner
- 260 square inches of cooking space
- Cold-rolled steel cooking surface for even heat distribution and easy cleaning
- Electric ignition system for easy start-ups
- Built-in grease management system
- Portable design with a compact size and built-in carrying handle
- Adjustable heat control
Pros:
- Large cooking area for grilling for a group
- Even heat distribution thanks to the cold-rolled steel cooking surface
- Durable construction and high-quality materials for long-lasting use
- Easy-to-use ignition system for quick start-ups
- Built-in grease management system for easy cleaning
- Portable design with a compact size and built-in carrying handle
Cons:
- Limited temperature control options with only one burner
- No lid, which may limit cooking options
- Heavy and bulky compared to other portable grills
Gas Grill Comparison Chart
| Gas Grill Model | Number of Burners | Cooking Surface (square inches) | BTUs | Construction | Portability |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Char-Broil Classic 280 2-Burner Gas Grill | 2 | 280 | 20,000 | Porcelain-coated steel, plastic, and metal | Compact size, built-in handles, and wheels |
| MASTER COOK 3 Burner BBQ Propane Gas Grill | 3 | 189 | 30,000 | Stainless steel and porcelain-enameled grates | Wheels for easy transfer but not readily portable |
| Cuisinart CGG-180T Petit Gourmet Portable Tabletop Gas Grill | 1 | 145 | 5,500 | Stainless steel and porcelain-enameled steel | Compact size, folding legs, and carrying handle |
| Royal Gourmet PD1300 Portable 3-Burner Propane Gas Grill | 3 | 325 | 27,000 | Stainless steel and porcelain-enameled steel | Folding legs, locking hood, and two side tables |
| Blackstone Table Top Grill | 1 | 260 | 12,000 | Cold-rolled steel | Portable design with a built-in carrying handle |
We’ve discussed the top 5 gas grills under $200 based on criteria such as quality of construction, size and cooking surface, number of burners, and portability and ease of use. We’ve looked at the features and specifications, as well as the pros and cons of each grill, to help you make an informed decision.
While there are many gas grills on the market, these top 5 grills offer a great balance of affordability, quality, and features. Each grill has its own strengths and weaknesses, so it’s important to consider your own needs and preferences when choosing the right grill for you. And check out my guide for the best portable smokers. Happy grilling!
