Top 5 Best Propane Grills Under $500 for 2022 (Buyer’s Guide)
Whether you’re a weekend griller or an experienced pit master, finding the best propane grill for your needs can be tricky. There are so many different models on the market, with a wide variety of features and price points. In this blog post, we’ll help you find the best propane grill under $500. We’ll outline some of the most important factors to consider when making your purchase, and we’ll recommend five popular models that fit in this price range.
Are you in the market for a new propane grill but don’t want to break the bank? Check out our list of the best grills under $500. From small grills perfect for camping to large grills that can feed an entire party, we’ve got you covered. So what are you waiting for? Start browsing and find the perfect grill for your needs!
Table of Contents
Top 5 Best Propane Grills Under $500
1. Char-Broil 463377319 Performance 4-Burner
https://www.amazon.com/Char-Broil-463377319-Performance-Stainless-4-Burner/dp/B07JZV24HV
The Char-Broil Performance Stainless Steel 4-burner gas grill is perfect for the serious griller. It delivers 36,000 BTU’s of heat across the 425 square inch cooking surface to accommodate large-sized meals the whole family will enjoy. The primary cooking surface measures 23-inches wide by 18.5-inches deep, and features porcelain-coated cast iron grates, which are rust-resistant, help prevent food from sticking and are easy to clean. This best propane grills under $500 also has a stainless steel lid and cabinet with a black powder coat finish that will look great in any backyard.
Features:
– It’s a gas grill with four burners.
– This best propane grills under $500 has an electronic ignition system.
– Other cool features include stainless steel grates above the burners.
– Removable grease trays for easy cleaning.
– An electronic igniter on the smaller back burner.
– With a total of 46,000 BTU of cooking power.
– It features ceramic briquettes made from 80 percent recycled materials.
Pros:
– Easy set up, digital control panel.
– 4 high-performance burners
– 11,000 btu side burner
– Durable stainless steel cooking grates
– Rotary ignition for ease of use
– Patented grease management system
Cons:
– No Temperature Gauge.
2. Dyna-Glo Black & Stainless Premium Grills, 5 Burner
https://www.amazon.com/Dyna-Glo-Stainless-Premium-Grills-Natural/dp/B00JTR81RE
Dyna-Glo Black & Stainless Premium Grills offer professional-grade cooking power in a beautiful package. With five stainless steel commercial grade straight tube burners, a side burner, and a rotisserie burner, this best propane grills under $500 has all the firepower you need to cook up a storm. The 79,000 total BTUs of cooking power are infinitely adjustable, giving you complete control over your heat. And with 764 square inches of cooking space, you’ll have plenty of room to cook up a feast for the whole family. The three pieces of heavy gauge 7 mm stainless steel cooking grates provide even heat distribution, while the stainless steel warming rack and 5 stainless steel heat tents keep food warm until it’s ready to serve.
Dyna-Glo’s Black & Stainless Premium Grills take outdoor cooking to the next level. With five burners, an integrated temperature gauge, and a cabinet style cart with four heavy duty casters, this grill is perfect for the professional cook. The custom fit Dyna-Glo premium cover (sold separately) protects your grill from the elements, so you can enjoy years of fantastic cooking.
Features:
– The Dyna-Glo black and stainless grill has five burners.
– It is made out of porcelain coated steel for durability and easy to clean.
– This best propane grills under $500 features a lid mounted temperature gauge, ignition system.
– All parts which come in contact with food are made from stainless steel.
– There is an electronic ignition system on this grill for convenience.
– The porcelain coating of the steel makes it easy to clean as well as corrosion resistant.
Pros:
– The control knobs are easy to use.
– Grill has 5 burners, which provide more than enough power.
– Grill has side tables that conveniently fold down.
– The extra large cooking area provides more than enough space.
– Assembly is relatively easy and doesn’t take a long time.
– The grill heats up to 500 degrees in just ten minutes.
Cons:
– It has a poor design and the metal doesn’t seem very durable or high-quality.
3. Weber 54060001 Q2200 Liquid Propane Grill
https://www.amazon.com/Weber-54060001-Q2200-Liquid-Propane/dp/B00FDOON9C
Weber’s Q2200 Liquid Propane Grill is a high-performance grill designed with your needs in mind. With a sleek, stylish design and larger grip handle and control knobs, this best propane grills under $500 is easy to use and perfect for any outdoor cooking enthusiast. The split grates allow for grate/griddle cooking, giving you a variety of options for preparing your meals.
The Weber 54060001 Q2200 Liquid Propane Grill is the perfect grill for any outdoor activity. Its tall lid accommodates small roasts and birds, while its large built-in thermometer allows you to monitor temperatures inside the grill. With a design that offers both compact overall size and large grilling surface, the Weber Q 2200 can double as a stationary grill in your outdoor living space. The grill runs on disposable LP cylinders (not included), but an optional LP adapter hose for 20-lb. tanks is available as an accessory.
Features:
– Weber Q2200 Liquid Propane Grill is a compact, portable grill.
– The cooking grates are porcelain-enameled cast iron, which provides excellent heat retention and searing capability.
– Three stainless steel burners provide 36 000 BTUs
– Weber grill includes electronic ignition.
– It also features screw adjust valve control for the easy adjustment of the gas flow.
– The porcelain enameled Flavorizer bars are double ringed with drip tray.
– A sturdy cart with locking lid holders is fitted with tool hooks for an additional accessory storage area.
Pros:
– Well built, easy to use and clean.
– Comes with table top stand.
– Small enough to carry around with ease.
– Provides 12,000 BTU per hour output for faster heat up times.
– Solid stainless steel grates offer great cooking performance.
– 2 stainless steel burners make the heat distribution even and efficient.
– Locks into position when in table top stand for added safety.
– Uses disposable propane gas cylinders that are easy to find and inexpensive.
Cons:
– Smaller than other propane gas grills which have similar price tag.
4. American Gourmet 463773717 Char-Broil Classic 360 3-Burner
https://www.amazon.com/Char-Broil-Classic-3-Burner-Liquid-Propane/dp/B01HITNEEE
The American Gourmet Classic 360 is the perfect grill for anyone who wants to cook up a large meal for their family and friends. This 3-burner gas grill delivers 30,000 BTU’s of heat across the 360 square inch cooking surface, so you can cook up a variety of dishes at once. The cooking surface measures 26-inches wide by 14-inches deep, and is fitted with porcelain-coated grates that help prevent sticking and make cleanup easy. With three durable stainless steel in-line burners, this best propane grills under $500 is built to last.
Features:
– 360 Square inches of grilling space on cast iron grill grate with 2 stainless steel burners.
– A grease management system that collects fat in steel catch tray.
– Stainless steel burner tubes heat up fast
– Nonstick cooking surface prevents sticking which allows food to be flipped or turned without worrying about losing its moistness or quality.
– Heavy steel body is sturdy and durable.
Pros:
– It has a large cooking space
– The grill surface is made of stainless steel and porcelain enamel.
– Three burners for variable heat control.
– It comes with a side burner so you can cook using two different heat sources at once.
– Include an electronic ignition system and precise temperature gauge.
– An easy access control panel located at the front.
Cons:
– Sometimes, this grill heats up unevenly.
5. Char-Griller E3001 Grillin’ Pro 40,800-BTU Gas Grill
https://www.amazon.com/Char-Griller-E3001-Grillin-800-BTU-Grill/dp/B001H9RPNI
If you’re looking for a top-of-the-line gas grill that will let you create delicious barbecue at home, look no further than the Char-Griller E3001 Grillin’ Pro. This premium grill features three burners with independent control knobs, delivering consistent and even heat across the entire grilling area. With a total cooking area of 630 square inches, this best propane grills under $500 is perfect for cooks of all skill levels. Plus, the 12,000 BTU side burner gives you plenty of flexibility to cook up whatever you’re in the mood for.
This heavy-duty barbeque grill is made from tubular steel and built to withstand even the most intense barbecuing sessions. It features dual smoke stacks for better ventilation, thick porcelain-coated cast iron cooking grates for maximum heat retention, a warming rack, large wheels for easy portability, and a side workstation with barbeque tool set storage hooks. The stylish barrel-style black gas grill with smokestacks is sure to be a welcome addition to any backyard.
Features:
– There are three stainless steel burners with individual knobs.
– Made from tubular steel and built to last.
– The temperature gauge also comes fully equipped with a LED display.
– This unit is very easy to put together.
– It has porcelain coated cast iron grates that are removable for easy cleaning.
– 630 square inch total cooking area delivers great taste and bbq flavor.
– Electronic igniters for each burner insure your gas propane grill starts easily.
Pros:
– Electronic start ignition for easy lighting.
– Porcelain coated cast iron grate retains heat well.
– Sturdy steel construction no rusting or warping from exposure to water or fire.
– This best propane grills under $500 has three burners – two at the back end of the unit and one in the middle.
– Easy to use and clean.
– Large wheels for easy portability.
Cons:
– Side burner doesn’t get very hot.
Buying Guide On The Best Propane Grills Under $500
What Is Propane Grills?
Propane grills are gas grills that are fueled by propane cylinders. These cylinders are usually sold in bundles of three, six or nine depending on the size of your grill. They are usually available for purchase at local hardware stores or supermarkets. Some people do buy fuel for their propane grill online because it is way cheaper to get them from suppliers there rather than having to pay for extra costs on shipping through traditional retailers. Cylinders of propane can be arranged in a variety of ways but most often they would be attached horizontally on the side near the bottom of the grill itself. The easiest way to know how much propane you need for your own cooking purposes is by using a measuring device and checking out your grill’s manual to see how much heat it can give off. If you do not have a measuring device, then you will need to use trial and error method of judging the amount of propane you’ll use for certain periods of time.
What Are The Advantages Or Benefits Of Cooking With A Propane Gas Grill Instead Of Charcoal?
Natural Gas and Propane grills provide several benefits over charcoal grills:
– Burns cleaner than a charcoal-fueled fire because it creates less ash. The flavor from food being cooked over propane is often preferred by foodies because there is little smoke or flame flare-ups that can cause charring. A general rule of thumb is that foods cooked at low temperatures create the best tasting flavors as compared to those burned at high temps. Food prepared on natural gas or propane grills are not subjected to the high temps that occur regularity with charcoal grilling. The food is cooked at lower temperatures which means you do not have to endure added smoke or burnt tasting meats.
– Natural Gas and Propane gas grills are more efficient than charcoal-fueled grills because there is less waste. Charcoal often wastes up to 50% of its fuel value during the process of barbecuing, while natural gas or propane offer a consistent heat source throughout cooking time.
– Propane gas grills offer flexible control during cooking. If you require less heat simply turn down the dial on your grill’s regulator/burner knob, if you need more heat simply increase this control setting by turning the knob in the opposite direction. Many units offer both a primary burner and a side or warming burner for added cooking flexibility.
– Propane gas grills are typically more affordable than their charcoal counterparts.
– Propane is stored in pressurized tanks, which you can easily attach to your grill when needed for use. Charcoal must be bought frequently and sometimes before every cookout depending on how often it is used.It needs to be preheated without fail before cooking begins so natural gas is not an option if you want to start up your grill quickly rather than waiting 15 minutes for coals to get hot enough to begin cooking with, which in turn wastes fuel in most cases. Charcoal also requires lighter fluid (tricky), or a chimney starter to get going so natural gas is both easier and more cost efficient. While it may take a few minutes longer for your grill to reach cooking temps, the time spent waiting for coals to get hot enough can add up when you’re in a rush.
– Propane tanks are easy to transport from place to place, while charcoal must be carried by hand from where ever it’s been bought from, which often times leaves your hands dirtied with black carbon dust.
Factors To Consider When Buying A Propane Grills
The grilling season is now here and the first thing you need to consider is buying a best propane grills under $500. With so many brands and models in the market, it can be overwhelming and confusing to choose one that will match your needs. This article provides good tips on how to find the best brand of propane grill for sale.
– Type
There are several types of grills available, but generally; we can categorize them into three basic types: gas, charcoal or electric version. You can pick among these types depending on your lifestyle and preference as each type has its own unique advantages and disadvantages. For instance, if you prefer ease of use with fast cooking time, then an electric grill may be an ideal choice; if you like convenience, then charcoal grill will be the best; if you want to cook using clean and healthy ingredients, gas grill will be your choice.
– Price
How much are you willing to shell out for a propane barbecue? The pricing depends on several factors like material used, durability and features of the appliance among others. Before choosing a brand, determine what type of stove would fit your needs and work within your budget. For instance, for an inexpensive price range, there is Coleman Propane Grill that costs about $50; Weber Propane Grill (2811001) with stainless steel burners goes for about $230; while Green Mesquite Premium Propane Gas Grill can be yours in an affordable cost of $100.
– Type of Gas
Most propane grills are powered by either natural gas or liquid petroleum. However, there have been recent advances in the technology wherein disposable cylinders are being used for portable grills. The bulk of the best propane grills under $500 use disposable cylinders while some models still rely on connection to a natural gas line.
– BTU/Hour
One feature that sets apart brands and model is their heating power measured in BTU (British thermal unit). More BTUs mean more heat; thus, with this information you can easily determine your cooking time. For instance, Weber Propane Grill (Q 1200) has 12,000 BTU per hour; while Outland Firebowl Propane Gas Grill with Open Cart offers 18,000 BTU per hour and Cuisinart Petit Gourmet Portable Gas Grill has 12,000 BTU per hour.
– “No-Flare” Technology
Since flare-ups can cause serious accidents while grilling, manufacturers have come up with various ways to control such problem. Some models use drip pan that catches drippings before they reach the burners; others incorporate a double strap of flame tamers or protective wall on each side of the grill while some brands use infrared technology which produces less flame and quickly sears food.
– Burner configuration
Some best propane grills under $500 may include either single burner or multiple burners so you need to ask how many and what type of burners are in the appliance you plan to buy. This information will help you determine your space requirement and cooking needs.
– Material
Some brands use stainless steel for burners, grid and firebox; while others utilize cast iron plates. When searching for grills, look for those that use good quality materials to minimize problems like rusting or corrosion especially if placed outdoors.
– Wheels and mobility
Another important factor to consider is the portability of the grill as some models come with wheel design which makes them easily movable from one place to another; however this feature is not available in all products so check product description carefully before buying.
Tips To Use A Propane Grills
Propane grills are a great way to cook food quickly and efficiently, making them ideal for cooking up burgers, steaks or any other grill-friendly meal. If you’re new to the world of best propane grills under $500, these few simple tips should help get you started.
– Do not use lighter fluid!
One of the first things many new grillers will do is squirt lighter fluid on their propane grill. But this can have a dangerous effect, not only on your food but on your health as well. Instead, use a propane starter or a long match to light the grill.
– It’s all in the wrist!
Cooking with a gas grill requires that you learn to ‘flip’ your food. You can’t just leave it sitting on the grill and expect good things to come out of it. Instead, you should practice your ‘wrist action’ by trying to fling a piece of lettuce into the middle of the room with a flick of your wrist.
– Clean up!
Proper maintenance is key for any barbecue grill, but it’s doubly important when you’re working with a best propane grills under $500. Once or twice a year, remove the burners from your gas grill and give them a good scrubbing. The rest depends on how often you use your propane grill; if you use it every day then you should be cleaning at least every month or two as well as replacing your propane tank regularly to maintain a good air pressure.
– Get the most out of your grill!
Once you have properly seasoned your food, you can step up its flavor by brushing it with a marinade before putting it on the grill. If you’ve got some time and want to add more layers of richness and taste, try making your own barbecue sauce for dipping or pouring over your grilled meat at the end of cooking.
What Are The Most Common Mistakes People Make When Using A Propane Grills?
Grilling is a great summer activity, and propane grills are a popular choice for many people. However, there are a few mistakes that people often make when using propane grills. In this article, we will discuss the most common mistakes people make with their propane grills and how to avoid them.
One of the most common mistakes people make when using a propane grill is not reading the owner’s manual. The owner’s manual contains important safety information and instructions on how to use the grill properly. It is important to read the manual before using the grill so that you know how to safely operate it.
Another mistake people often make is not checking the gas levels before starting to cook. If the gas levels are low, it can cause the grill to not operate properly. Make sure to check the gas levels before starting to cook and adjust them if necessary.
Another common mistake is not cleaning the grill regularly. If the grill is not cleaned regularly, it can build up grease and dirt that can cause a fire. Make sure to clean the grill after each use, and be especially careful to clean any build-up of grease.
Finally, another common mistake is using the wrong type of fuel for the grill. Make sure to use propane gas in a propane grill and charcoal in a charcoal grill. Using the wrong type of fuel can cause the grill to not work properly.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your propane grill works safely and properly.
FAQs About Best Propane Grills Under $500
What Is Propane?
Propane is a flammable gas produced by processing petroleum. It is colorless, odorless and has a boiling point of -43 degrees Fahrenheit. Propane has no flavor or color, but it does have an odor that can be detected at about 1 part per million. Under standard conditions, propane turns into liquid when pressurized to 3200 psi (pounds per square inch).
Is Propane Safe To Use As Fuel For Cooking Food?
Yes, propane is the most widely used gas in the U.S., safely used in millions of homes every day for heating, cooling, outdoor grilling or indoor cooking with portable appliances like stoves and barbeques. The safe handling procedures taught in the National Propane Gas Association’s (NPGA) “Grill Class” and propane safety program ensures that cooking with propane is safe and easy to do.
What Type Of Fuel Does My Grill Use?
As a general rule, most gas grills burn natural gas for heat and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) for ignition. The liquefied petroleum gas is commonly referred to as LPG or LP Gas. It is everywhere you go when buying things such as patio heaters, camping stoves, lanterns and portable barbeque grills. If your grill was manufactured after 1991 it will most likely run on high-pressure propane which has no odor added to it.(Ordinary low pressure propane is blue in color, high pressure propane is red). Check your tank for the exact type of fuel it uses. You can also contact your grill’s manufacturer or retailer to ask what type of fuel is recommended for use with your grill.
Many gas grills today are manufactured so you can choose between natural gas and propane, so remember to check with your manufacturer or seller before choosing a grill model based solely on which fuel it uses.
Are There Different Types Of Propane?
Propane comes in four grades: commercial grade, which has no odor added; non-odorized, which has a mild scent added to it; blended, which contains both the commercial grade and non-ized grades; and odorized, which is required by law to contain ethyl mercaptan, a substance that emits a distinctive odor.
Propane grills and barbeques use the odorized grade due to its added safety benefits: The smell of boiling liquids (ie: water) and smoke from cooking meat both mask the odors of propane, so food does not always emit enough odor to provide adequate warning of a leak. Therefore, propane suppliers add an additive to commercial grade propane that emits a strong, noticeable odor when used in appliances such as heating devices and gas grills for outdoor cooking. It is important that you understand what type of fuel your grill uses before attempting any type of maintenance or repair on it yourself. If you are unsure about what type of fuel your grill uses, contact your dealer for assistance. Only a qualified individual should attempt to inspect, clean or maintain a best propane grills under $500 or appliance.
Is My Propane Leak Hazardous?
No matter what type of natural gas grill you have, whether it uses liquid propane or hard-piped propane/natural gas directly into the unit, there is no risk of fire or explosion. The propane tanks used for grills are specially designed low pressure units that vent outside to reduce the risk of explosion or fire in all cases. Every year, propane is by far the safest fuel to use when barbecuing with flames because it is not an explosive gas like butane, nor does it become flammable until reaching very high pressures unlike natural gas (which has no odorant added either). The only type of grill you could potentially have a problem with is one that has an attached natural gas line; if your unit uses this design then be sure you’re following all safety precautions when connecting your regulator/burner knob and pilot light assembly – do not attempt to hook up these components yourself if you’re not sure how to do it. This is a safety hazard that can result in injury when you don’t know what you’re doing, but if done properly the risk of fire or explosion is very slim.
How Do I Know If My Grill Has A Leak?
If you smell gas when your grill is turned on, you have a leak. Gas is added to the propane in order to make it easily identified via smell. If you smell or see smoke-like vapors coming from your grill while it’s running, turn off the tank immediately and check for leaks.
>>> See more: Grill Safety Tips | Best propane grills under $500
Conclusion
It can be tough to find the best propane grill for your needs when you have a limited budget. That’s why we’ve put together this list of the best propane grills under $500. We hope it will help make your decision easier and get you cooking outdoors sooner!
Whether you are looking for a basic grill to get the job done or something with more bells and whistles, we have you covered. So, what are you waiting for? Start browsing our picks for the best propane grills under $500 and find the perfect one for your needs today. Have you decided on which grill is right for you? If not, don’t worry – we’ll give you a little more information about each one so that you can make an informed decision. Let us know in the comments which grill you ended up choosing – or if you have any other recommendations to add to our list.
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