Types of Grills
Grills come in all sorts of shapes, sizes and designs, and the price range for grills is just as wide. You can find basic charcoal grills that are relatively inexpensive, or you can go all out and get a top of the line gas grill or smoker. Here, we’ll take a look at the various types of grills available and the different features they offer so you can decide which grill is right for you.
Charcoal Grills
Charcoal grills are the classic, familiar backyard staple. These grills offer an unbeatable smoky flavor and direct heat grilling, but they require more time and attention than other types of grills. As a result, they’re more popular for outdoor barbecues and home parties.
There are two types of charcoal grill available — barrel grills and kettle grills. Barrel grills usually come with additional accessories, including side burners and rotisseries for added cooking flexibility, although this means a higher cost too. Kettle grills are smaller and lighter than barrel grills which makes them better suited for camping trips or small patios.
Regardless of the type you choose to purchase, there are a few tried-and-true tips you should use when cooking with charcoal that help ensure the absolute best smoky grilled flavor:
1) Preheat your grill for at least 20 minutes before cooking: This helps ensure that your food is cooked evenly.
2) Add soaked wood chips to your briquettes: While preheating your grill, throw in some soaked wood chips to enhance the natural flavors of your grilled food.
3) Use the two-zone fire technique: A two-zone fire is essentially a hot zone of coals (or “direct heat”) on one side of your charcoal grate where you can place any thin cuts like steaks or burgers over direct heat; then a cool/warm zone (or “indirect heat”) on the other side of your charcoal grate where you can place thicker cuts like ribs or roasts over indirect heat to slow-cook without burning or drying out food proteins. Instructions vary by type of charcoal grill model so consult any provided owner’s manual that came with your specific brand/model for exact instructions on how to create a two-zone fire in your own unit once it’s preheated and ready Remember that proper monitoring is key for successful smoking and barbecuing directly over an open flame!
Gas Grills
Gas grills are a popular option among many outdoor grillers. They offer convenience and versatility and come in a variety of sizes to accommodate smaller intimate gatherings or larger groups. The convenience of gas grills is the main advantage, as they begin heating up shortly after you start them and require no additional fuel. However, it is important to make sure the area you intend to use it is well ventilated and that there are no fire hazards nearby. Types of gas grills range from those powered by natural gas or propane canisters to more sophisticated grills that provide additional temperature control settings or cooking temperature monitors built in.
Smaller gas grills are typically designed for two or three burners with a small cooking area, such as compact two-burner grills at around 300-400 square inches, ideal for apartments or smaller decks and patios. Mid-size models usually come with four burners with anywhere from 400–600 square inches of cooking area; these are designed for medium parties typically up to six people or so in size but can also be used for larger functions. Larger models usually have five burners and over 600 square inches of cooking space with multiple side shelves, making it great for big BBQs, family get togethers, camping trips and more.
Electric Grills
Electric grills offer the convenience of not needing to buy charcoal or propane every time you want to cook and they can be used indoors as well as outdoors. They are great for small places where conventional grilling space may be limited. Though electric grills cost more initially than charcoal or gas models, these costs even out after a few uses.
Electric grills include:
-Indoor electric grills: These typically feature angled surfaces so the fat from food can drain away and prevent flare-ups. They usually have adjustable temperature settings for better cooking control, and some feature plates that are dishwasher safe for easy cleaning.
-Outdoor electric grills: designed to look like traditional gas and charcoal grills, these grills heat up quickly and offer adjustable temperature settings for both direct and indirect cooking. Some also feature helpful extras such as foldable side tables, warming racks, removable drip trays and rotisserie kits. Both indoor and outdoor electric grills range in price from around $50 to hundreds of dollars depending on features such as size and number of burners.
Price Range
When it comes to grilling, the cost can vary widely depending on the type and size of grill you are looking for. The most basic grills can start in the $100 range, while high-end models can cost thousands of dollars. With this wide range of prices, it can be difficult to figure out how much a grill might ultimately cost. Let’s take a closer look.
Low-Range Grills
When shopping for a grill, one of the many important factors to consider is price. Many people are working within a budget, especially when making their first purchase. The cost of grills can range from a few hundred dollars into the thousands, depending on your preferences and needs.
Low-range grills typically have small cooking surfaces suitable for those who are not looking to cook large amounts of food or throw big cookouts and parties. These grills generally use charcoal briquettes or gas and come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Low-range grills may include features such as warming racks, lids, thermometers, condiment trays and removable ash pans. Prices can range from $50 to around $150 depending on features desired and size needed.
Low-range charcoal grills come in three main styles: kettle, barrel or portable. Kettle grills are shaped like a kettle with a dome lid on top for evenly distributing heat with indirect cooking methods. Barrel or barrel-style grills come in different configurations but generally provide larger cooking surfaces than other styles of charcoal grillers and use less charcoal than their kettle counterparts. Portable grills are an even more short-term option featuring smaller cooking surfaces that use disposable lighters or propane tanks instead of traditional charcoal briquettes.
Mid-Range Grills
Mid-range grills, which generally range in price from about $200-$600, offer a nice balance between price and quality. Grills in this category typically feature more durability, better temperature control and larger cooking areas than low-end models. They also include additional features such as thermostats and additional burners for even heating.
Features will vary greatly from grill to grill within this mid-range price point, but here are some of the elements you can expect to find:
-Stainless steel burners -For better temperature control and even heating distribution.
-Larger cooking area -Most mid-range grills come with at least 300 square inches of total cooking space, allowing you to cook more food at once with greater accuracy.
-Dual fuel options -Many mid-price range grills come equipped with both gas and charcoal options, giving you great versatility when it comes to choosing your fuel source.
-Thermometers -To make sure your food is cooked correctly without having to open the lid every few minutes to check temperature.
-Warming rack -A convenient addition which allows you to keep food warm while maintaining overall cooking temperatures on the main surface of your grill.
High-End Grills
High-end grills are designed to provide superior cooking capabilities and a longer lifespan than their lower-cost counterparts. Expect to pay $500 or more for these grills. Features may include a stainless steel cooking box, corrosion-resistant materials, high BTU output, and adjustable shelves. Some even have programmable settings for automatic shutoffs and convenience. High-end models with added features such as built-in Bluetooth or Wi-Fi accessibility, flame monitoring, or advanced temperature control could be more expensive than the basic models in this class.
Factors Affecting Cost
Depending on the type of grill and its features, there can be a lot of factors that will affect the cost of a grill. The size of the grill, the fuel it uses, the features it has, and the brand name will all contribute to the final price. We’ll delve into these factors and discuss how they can affect the cost of a grill.
Size
One of the main factors that affects the cost of a grill is its size. Generally, grills come in both small and large sizes – with larger grills priced higher due to their capacity to cook more food at once.
Small grills tend to be less expensive than larger ones, and often are portable which is convenient for those who don’t want to commit to a fixed spot for their grill. Prices for small grills usually start around $50 and can range up to about $200 depending on features such as a removable grate or heat shield.
Medium-sized grills range from about 30 inches to 60 inches in width and are suitable for typical use – like family barbecues or backyard gatherings. These usually cost between $200-$400, depending on features such as warming racks or side burners.
Large grills often exceed 72 inches in width and can reach up to five feet long. These are suitable for hosting large gatherings or parties, as they can cook food for more people at one time compared to smaller units. Prices can range from around $400-$2,000, sometimes higher depending on brand name, additional features like searing station etc.
Features
When evaluating the cost of a grill, there are several features which buyers should take into consideration. Size is perhaps one of the most important factors, as larger grills will naturally cost more than smaller ones. The size of a full-size grill can range anywhere from 14 to 20 inches across, and the type of fuel used can also influence its cost.
Gas grills tend to be more expensive than charcoal or electric grills but may offer superior ease-of-use and greater temperature control. Charcoal grills are typically less expensive but require additional tools for maintaining an even heat and managing smoke. Electric grills also tend towards affordability but may not be suitable for outdoor use due to their dependence on an electrical outlet.
The material composition of the grill is another factor worth considering since it can affect how long it lasts in outdoor conditions as well as how well it performs when cooking food. Stainless steel grills are widely considered to be the best option in terms of durability, while aluminum and coated steel models often offer a slightly lower cost with equivalent performance still suitable for home use.
Other features that add to the price of a grill include folding side tables for extra prep space, heat shields for smoke management, built-in thermometers for precise temperature control, attached wheels for easy movement and storage compartments for other tools and accessories like cleaning brushes or utensils baskets. Such additions make cooking with open fire much more convenient but come at an additional cost with more higher-end models offering a wide array of features often found in professional grade equipment.
Brand
When it comes to grilling, having the right size and type of grill is important, but another key factor in determining cost is brand. Certain grilling brands have established their names as the go-to for those looking for quality and a good performance.
Two of the most popular American brands are Weber and Char-Broil. Weber makes a variety of charcoal, gas, electric and portable grills that come in a range of sizes. This company has been making smokers and grills since 1952; they offer high-end products loaded with features that will make your grilling experience much more enjoyable.
Char-Broil is another popular brand for gas and charcoal grills alike. Their offering includes standard performance models at lower prices compared to Weber’s broad selection of high-end products; their latest line includes infrared technology for faster heating and improved fuel efficiency.
A good way to assess both these brands is to take into account factors such as size, space, fuel types (charcoal or gas) as well as features like warming racks or rotisserie cookers before you make a decision on which one you want to buy. There are many other brands to consider across different price ranges so be sure to do your research before purchasing the right grill for you!
Additional Costs
When it comes to grilling, there are more than just the cost of the grill to consider. You’ll want to account for other costs such as fuel, items to grill, ingredients, and any additional tools or accessories you may need. All of these factors can influence how much a grill will eventually cost you. Let’s break down some of these additional costs.
Grill Covers
When shopping for a grill, you should research the additional factors that can impact the price of your purchase. One of these is a grill cover. Grill covers are designed to protect your grill and its components, helping to keep it in good condition year-round. If you live in an area where there are wide temperature fluctuations or frequent bad weather, it is highly recommended that you invest in a high-quality grill cover.
Grill covers come in different sizes and materials so that you can choose one that best fits your needs and budget. The material will vary greatly depending on the manufacturer, from vinyl to heavy-duty canvas covers. Grill covers typically range from $15 – $350, depending on size and quality – with most lightweight vinyl grill covers selling for between $20 and $50. Factors like climate and exposure also affect pricing – as better quality materials will cost more than those intended for shorter term use or protection against light elements only.
For extended outdoor dining protection, you may also opt for islands or grilling gazebos with longer warranties – which often come with their own heavier duty long lasting fabric grilling covers included in their overall cost.
Rotisserie
In addition to the cost of the grill itself, you may also want to purchase extra items such as a rotisserie. A rotisserie is great for making large roasts, turkeys and other large cuts of meat. A basic rotisserie will cost around $30-$50. However, if you are looking for something a bit more luxurious or with added features, then the cost could be higher. Some of these options include infrared rotisseries that cook your food quicker, or even a remote-controlled rotisserie that allows you to move your meats without ever touching them. All these extra features can add an additional $100-$300 or more onto the price tag. Even with these extras, investing in a well-made grill and added features like a rotisserie can be an affordable way to enjoy delicious grilled meals at home!
Smoker Boxes
Smoker boxes are steel or cast iron devices that can be attached to grills or used independently. The purpose of the smoker box is to infuse food with smoke by burning wood chips, giving food that unique smoky flavor. Smoker boxes come in a variety of shapes and sizes and can be used as an alternative to traditional smoking techniques. They are relatively inexpensive, but costs can vary depending on the size and materials used. Some smokers may come with a lid or hinged top for easy refilling; adding this convenience may add to the cost. Additionally, gas grills require additional adaptors in order for the smoker box to fit and function properly, further increasing the cost.
Tips for Shopping
When shopping for a new grill, there are several things to consider, from size and material to features and budget. Depending on your needs, you may end up spending anywhere from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand. But don’t worry, there are some tips you can use to help make sure you find the best grill for your needs at a price that fits your budget.
Research Grill Features
When researching grill features, it’s important to consider what type of cooking you will be doing and how much space you have to work with. Do you need portability or is your grilling station more permanent? What type of materials do you prefer, such as stainless steel or porcelain-enameled steel? Will you be grilling for larger groups or just a couple people?
When selecting a grill, the two most important considerations are size and BTUs (British Thermal Units). Size refers to how many burgers the grill can cook at once. Generally speaking, a larger size will equate to more BTUs. If a bigger cooking area isn’t necessary right now, consider choosing a smaller model with fewer BTUs since they tend to be more fuel efficient than the larger units.
Another feature worth researching is the burner design. For instance, some models use infrared burners that utilize reflected heat from ceramic plates or specially designed grids which create intense heat and require less fuel than traditional gas burners. There are also two-burner options that provide faster preheating times and even cooking temperatures over the cooking surface.
In addition to these features, look for convenience items like built-in thermometers for precise temperature control, side heating surfaces for keeping food warm during extended grilling sessions, shelves or drawers for storage of charcoal and utensils; and wheels on some models if portability is desired. Once you do some comparison shopping, taking into account all of the features that will best meet your needs and budget should help in narrowing down your selection so that grilling season can soon begin!
Consider Your Budget
When it comes to purchasing any type of grill, you need to consider the amount of money you are willing to spend on a grill. Grills range in price from lower-level basic models to more elaborate setups that can cost several thousand dollars. Many factors can impact the cost, such as size, added features, and fuel type. Investing in a higher-end grill may offer more temperature control and greater durability over time.
When figuring out your budget for a grill, think about how often you’ll use it, what types of food you want to cook on it, and whether or not you need additional accessories or features. Consider fuel costs based on the type of combustible used ( charcoal or propane). If you are mostly cooking for one or two people, there’s no need to purchase a larger 4-or 5 burner gas grill; however if you host large gatherings then that is something to take into account when setting your budget.
Upgrading components on your existing barbecue can often be just as practical and cost effective as buying an entirely new unit — especially if your existing unit isn’t too outdated yet. Small upgrades like grates and covers might work out less expensive than starting from scratch so make sure to explore those options before committing to purchasing a brand new product altogether.
Read Customer feedbacks
Read customer feedbacks for the grills you are considering. Ratings and feedbacks can be quite helpful in determining a product’s quality, usability, and reliability. These can be found on consumer websites such as Consumer Reports, Home Advisor, and CNET. Additionally, many major retailers such as Amazon and Walmart offer customer feedbacks that can provide valuable insight into particular grills. When reading customer feedbacks it is important to note how recent they are as technology changes quickly while features that don’t correspond to current models may not represent the latest version of a particular product. Furthermore, many people who analyze a product may have had a bad experience immediately after purchase that they attempted to resolve through customer service (and experienced success), but they were so upset initially that they left a negative feedback without following up later with an updated one praising the retailer’s resolution efforts. This means that you should read closely to determine whether any negative feedbacks reflect an onerous process in resolving an issue or actual problems with the grill itself.
