Grills & Smokers Buying Guide

By Nick Davies · Updated 2026-09-12

Grills and smokers are the heart of backyard cooking for anyone who wants to bring flavor to the table without a kitchen. Whether you’re a weekend grill master or a casual smoker, the right appliance lets you cook consistently, manage heat, and fit your space.

Most buyers focus on brand hype or price and miss the key specs: burn area, temperature control, and the type of fuel that fits their routine. Understanding the trade‑offs between gas, charcoal, and pellet systems is what separates a good cook from a great one.

What to Look For in Grills & Smokers

• Burn Area: Larger surfaces (10–14 sq ft) let you cook multiple items at once; smaller units (5–8 sq ft) are portable but limit batch size.
• Temperature Range: 200–500 °F for searing, 350–650 °F for smoking. Look for models that reliably hit 650 °F for high‑heat sears.
• Ventilation & Airflow: Adjustable dampers or fan speeds control oxygen; gas units often have a single throttle, while charcoal setups rely on chimney vents.
• Fuel Type & Capacity: Gas grills use 12–20 gal tanks; charcoal grills need 30–50 lb of briquettes; pellet smokers hold 8–10 lb of wood pellets for 8–12 hrs of continuous cooking.
• Build & Materials: Stainless steel or cast iron panels resist flare‑ups and last beyond the first season.
• Portability: Weight (30–100 lb) and wheel design determine how easy it is to move the unit between sites.

How Much to Spend

Budget

$200–$500: Small gas or charcoal grills with 5–8 sq ft burn area, basic temperature control, and minimal accessories. You’ll save money but miss advanced features like built‑in temperature probes or dual‑zone cooking.

Mid‑range

$500–$1,200: Medium to large gas or pellet models (10–12 sq ft) with better airflow, temperature accuracy, and optional side burners or rotisseries. You pay more for durability and versatility.

Premium

$1,200–$3,000: Premium gas or pellet smokers with 14–16 sq ft burn area, multi‑zone control, built‑in meat probes, and high‑grade stainless steel. Expect top‑tier performance and long‑term reliability, but at a higher price.

Mistakes to Avoid

• Buying the smallest unit for backyard use: it limits batch size and may not handle larger cuts.
• Ignoring temperature accuracy: cheap gas grills often hit 10–15 °F off, ruining a sear.
• Overlooking fuel capacity: a 12 gal tank on a 14 sq ft grill can run out mid‑cook.
• Choosing a charcoal grill for smoke flavor without a chimney port or fan, leading to uneven heat.

Our 15 In-Depth Grills & Smokers Guides

FAQ

What size grill should I buy for a family of four?

A 10–12 sq ft burn area covers most meals. It gives enough room for a large steak, burgers, and veggies without crowding.

Do pellet smokers need electricity?

Most pellet smokers require a 110 V outlet for the auger and fan. Some models have battery backups for remote locations.

Is a gas grill better for smoking?

Gas grills can smoke if you use a smoking box or foil pouch, but pellet smokers deliver more consistent low temperatures and smoke flavor.

How often should I clean a charcoal grill?

After each use, sweep out ash and scrub grates. For long‑term use, clean the interior every few months to prevent flare‑ups.