Welcome to the ultimate guide to the best grills under $200, where we debunk the myth that quality always equates to a hefty price tag. In this article, we’re turning up the heat and diving into the world of affordable yet high-performing grills. We’ll explore an array of features, functionalities, and design aspects that put these pocket-friendly grillers on par with their more expensive counterparts.
Whether you’re a seasoned griller or a novice just starting your barbecue journey, are you ready to discover that perfect balance of performance, durability, and value? Let’s get sizzling and guide your way to becoming a budget-savvy grilling guru.
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Grills Under $200
Drawing from my personal experiences, there are several crucial decision-making factors when seeking the best grills under $200. These include the grill’s overall performance, durability, ease of use, portability, and fuel type.
Performance: Consider how well the grill heats up, maintains temperature, and cooks food evenly. Check for features that help control temperature like adjustable dampers or temperature dials.
Fuel Type: Grills can be powered by charcoal, gas, or electricity. Each type offers a different flavor profile and operational cost. Choose based on your preference and convenience.
Size and Cooking Area: Look at the grill’s size and the available cooking surface. Ensure it can accommodate the amount of food you typically grill at one time.
Portability: If you plan to take your grill on camping trips, tailgates, or park picnics, consider a compact and portable model.
Durability and Construction: The grill should be robust and capable of withstanding the elements. Materials like heavy-gauge steel, cast iron, or stainless steel are typically durable.
Ease of Use and Assembly: The grill should be easy to set up and use. Look for user-friendly features and controls.
Cleaning Ease: A good grill should be easy to clean. Features like removable ash pans or grease cups can simplify the cleaning process.
Additional Features: Consider extras like side shelves, tool hooks, smoker capabilities, or an included thermometer. These can add convenience and enhance your grilling experience.
Reviews and Ratings: Look at what other users are saying about the grill. Positive reviews and high ratings can indicate a good-quality grill.
Brand Reputation and Warranty: A well-known brand that stands behind its products with a good warranty is usually a safe bet.
Preview
Best Charcoal
Table Top Grill
Electric Grill
Title
Char-Griller E06614
Royal Gourmet PD1301R
Cuisinart CEG-980
Power Source
Charcoal
Liquid Propane Gas
Electricity
Primary cooking area (square inches)
155
316
145
Cooking power BTUs
8
25500
5120
Burners
1
3
1
Features
✔ Cast Iron Grates;
✔ Easy Dump Ash Pan;
✔ Dual Dampers;
✔ Easy Lift Handles;
✔ Perfect for tailgating;
✔ Portable Kamado Charcoal Grill uses less charcoal thanks to its insulated design and lockable lid;
✔ 316 sq. in.of porcelain-enameled cooking surface;
✔ Three Separate 8,500 BTU Burners;
✔ With the simple push of button and integrated piezo igniter;
✔ Removable and slide-out grease cup;
✔ Griddle top is detachable for washing;
✔ Powerful 1500 watt;
✔ Integrated telescoping legs lift the grill to a comfortable height for grilling;
✔ Perfect for condos;
✔ SMALL SIZE: 120 Volt / 60Hz. Pronounced briefcase-style carrying handle;
✔ Weighs 17 pounds;
✔ 316 sq. in.of porcelain-enameled cooking surface;
✔ Three Separate 8,500 BTU Burners;
✔ With the simple push of button and integrated piezo igniter;
✔ Removable and slide-out grease cup;
✔ Griddle top is detachable for washing;
✔ Powerful 1500 watt;
✔ Integrated telescoping legs lift the grill to a comfortable height for grilling;
✔ Perfect for condos;
✔ SMALL SIZE: 120 Volt / 60Hz. Pronounced briefcase-style carrying handle;
✔ Weighs 17 pounds;
Char-Griller E06614 AKORN Jr. Portable Kamado Charcoal Grill FAQ
Question 1: How does the Char-Griller E06614 AKORN Jr. Portable Kamado Charcoal Grill’s portability and size make it suitable for a variety of outdoor activities?
Answer: With compact dimensions of 20″D x 20″W x 26″H and weighing only 33 pounds, the AKORN Jr. grill is ideal for outdoor activities where portability is key. It has built-in handles and a locking lid, which simplifies transport. Despite its compact size, it doesn’t compromise on cooking area, offering 155 square inches, enough to grill up to 8 burgers at once. This makes it perfect for tailgating, camping, park grilling, or backyard barbecuing.
Question 2: What features of the Char-Griller E06614 AKORN Jr. Portable Kamado Charcoal Grill ensure efficient and flavorful grilling?
Answer: The AKORN Jr. grill offers several notable features for an enhanced grilling experience. Its insulated design with a locking lid traps smoke, heat, and moisture to produce flavorful barbecue and allows you to use less charcoal. The heavy-gauge powder-coated steel construction and thick cast-iron cooking grates maximize durability and heat retention. Its dual dampers and built-in thermometer enable easy heat level control, and the grill’s design allows for both high-heat grilling and low-and-slow cooking.
Question 3: How does the Char-Griller E06614 AKORN Jr. Portable Kamado Charcoal Grill ensure ease of maintenance and durability?
Answer: The AKORN Jr. grill is designed with easy maintenance and durability in mind. It features an easy-dump ash pan for quick and hassle-free cleanup after grilling. Its heavy-duty construction includes heavy-gauge powder-coated steel and cast-iron grates for long-lasting durability. Additionally, the grill’s powder-coated finish offers resistance to weathering and rust, increasing the product’s lifespan. Finally, the indexed adjustable dual dampers and thermometer allow for precise temperature control, extending the grill’s performance and reliability.
Is the Royal Gourmet PD1301R Portable Gas Grill Griddle suitable for beginners and compact enough for small spaces?
Answer: Absolutely. This model’s portability and straightforward assembly process make it an excellent choice for beginners. It has dimensions of 25″D x 16.3″W x 7.9″H, which is quite compact and ideal for small patios, balconies, or taking along for camping trips.
Question 2:
Does this model offer sufficient heating power and temperature control for various cooking needs?
Answer: Yes, it does. The Royal Gourmet PD1301R comes with three separately controlled burners that collectively deliver a total of 25,500 BTUs of cooking power. This arrangement allows for different heat settings across the griddle, facilitating the simultaneous preparation of various food items at their respective ideal temperatures.
Question 3:
How easy is it to clean and maintain the Royal Gourmet PD1301R Portable Gas Grill Griddle?
Answer: Cleaning this griddle is quite convenient. It features a removable, slide-out grease cup that collects oil residue while cooking, making it easy to clean up after use. Moreover, the griddle top is detachable, allowing for thorough washing. The inclusion of a specially designed grill cover with extra thick PVC coating also helps protect the unit, contributing to its longevity.
Question 1:
How does the American Gourmet 463672717 Classic 280 2-Burner Liquid Propane Gas Grill perform in terms of heat distribution and control?
Answer 1:
The American Gourmet Classic 280 features two stainless steel in-line burners that deliver a total of 20,000 BTUs of heat across its 280 square inch cooking surface. This powerful heat distribution allows for even and efficient cooking. Furthermore, these durable in-line burners offer better heat control from high to low compared to traditional pancake burners, thus allowing precise temperature adjustments for a variety of grilling tasks.
Question 2:
What makes the American Gourmet Classic 280 a durable option for outdoor cooking?
Answer 2:
The Classic 280 gas grill showcases a host of features that enhance its durability. It has a porcelain-coated steel lid and firebox, which allow the grill to withstand tough weather conditions and the elements. Furthermore, the grill features stainless steel burners and porcelain-coated grates that resist rust and are easy to clean, ensuring the grill’s longevity.
Question 3:
What are the additional features of the American Gourmet 463672717 Classic 280 that make it user-friendly?
Answer 3:
The American Gourmet Classic 280 comes equipped with several features that enhance user convenience. It includes two metal side shelves that provide additional work and prep space. Additionally, it features a Piezo ignition system that ensures fast and reliable startups with the push of a button. It’s also fitted with two 6-inch wheels for easy mobility and maneuverability around your deck or patio. The grill’s compact design, without a side burner, makes it ideal for small patios and decks.
How do the compact size and portability of the Cuisinart CEG-980 Outdoor Electric Grill with VersaStand make it a top choice for grillers with space restrictions?
Answer: The Cuisinart CEG-980 Outdoor Electric Grill offers a compact design that is ideal for grillers with space restrictions. It comes with a 145-square-inch grilling area that fits comfortably on small patios, balconies, and outdoor spaces. The VersaStand integrated adjustable telescoping base allows for easy setup, transforming the grill from storage to tabletop to floor-standing use in moments. Additionally, its briefcase-style carrying handle makes transportation easy, making it perfect for camping trips, picnics, or beach outings.
2. Question:
Given its electric operation, how does the Cuisinart CEG-980 perform in comparison to traditional propane or charcoal grills?
Answer: Although the Cuisinart CEG-980 operates on electricity, it doesn’t compromise on performance. Its powerful 1,500-watt heating element heats up quickly, reaching high temperatures that are sufficient to sear steaks to perfection. The grill offers a 145-square-inch grilling surface that can efficiently cook 8 burgers, 8 steaks, 6 to 10 chicken breasts, or over 4 lbs. of fish at once, which is quite comparable to many traditional grills. Moreover, its electric operation eliminates the need for propane or charcoal, making it a safer and cleaner option.
3. Question:
What features of the Cuisinart CEG-980 Outdoor Electric Grill contribute to its ease of use and convenience, making it a great grill under $200?
Answer: The Cuisinart CEG-980 Outdoor Electric Grill offers several features that make it user-friendly and convenient. It plugs into a standard household electrical receptacle, removing the need for gas or charcoal. The grill heats up quickly, and its temperature controller allows for precise heat management. The grill also features a lid latch and a spill-resistant drip tray for easy cleaning. The VersaStand is integrated into the grill for added convenience – making it easy to store when not in use. Lastly, it comes fully assembled, saving users the time and effort of assembly. These features, combined with its affordability, make it an excellent choice for a grill under $200.
Top Performers Under $200: A Comparative Analysis of Char-Griller E06614, Royal Gourmet PD1301R, and Cuisinart CEG-980 Grills
In terms of performance, the Char-Griller E06614 stands out with its impressive heat control. Its adjustable dual damper system allows for precise temperature management, and I’ve consistently grilled perfect burgers with an average cooking time of just 10-12 minutes. However, it’s the smoker feature that truly sets it apart – after a personal smoke session lasting 4 hours, I was rewarded with succulent, fall-off-the-bone ribs that were a hit at my backyard gathering.
The Royal Gourmet PD1301R has proven to be an all-rounder in my experience, but its spacious cooking surface really impresses me. I’ve simultaneously cooked about 15 average-sized burgers with no issue, making it ideal for larger gatherings. Additionally, its three burners, providing a total of 25,500 BTUs, ensure that the grill heats up fast and maintains the temperature well, shortening the overall cooking time.
The Cuisinart CEG-980, on the other hand, is my go-to for compact spaces and electric grilling. It has a 145-square-inch grilling area, which allows me to comfortably cook for a small family gathering of 4-6 people. One thing I appreciate about this grill is its consistent performance, regardless of the weather conditions – being an electric grill, it isn’t affected by wind, a common issue with gas or charcoal grills.
For those who enjoy smoke-infused flavors and portability, the Char-Griller E06614 would be my recommendation. If you often grill for larger crowds or value a spacious cooking surface, the Royal Gourmet PD1301R would be a better fit. For those living in apartments or areas with restrictions on open flames, the Cuisinart CEG-980 offers a viable and efficient grilling solution.
These grills each hold their own when compared to pricier options. Other notable grills in the same price range include the Weber 741001 Original Kettle, which offers excellent heat control and the classic charcoal grilling experience, and the Blackstone Table Top Grill for its convenience and flat-top griddle design.
Complete BBQ Toolkit: Essential Equipment for Optimal Performance with Best Grills Under $200
Equipment
Purpose
Grill Cover
Protects the grill from the elements when not in use
Grill Tools (spatula, tongs, grill fork)
Essential for flipping, moving, and removing food from the grill
Grill Brush
Used for cleaning the grill grates after use
Heat-Resistant Gloves
Protects hands from high heat when handling the grill or hot food
Meat Thermometer
Ensures food is cooked to the correct internal temperature
Grill Baskets
Ideal for grilling small items like vegetables or seafood
BBQ Grill Mats
Provides a smooth surface, perfect for grilling delicate foods like fish or preventing small food pieces from falling through the grates
Charcoal (for charcoal grills)
Provides the heat source and imparts a smoky flavor to food
Propane Tank (for gas grills)
Provides the fuel for gas grills
Extension Cord (for electric grills)
Ensures you can plug in your grill, regardless of the outlet’s location
Smoker Box (for gas grills)
Allows you to add wood chips for smoking flavor
Lighting Chimney (for charcoal grills)
Helps light charcoal quickly and evenly
Frequently Asked Questions on the Best Grills Under $200
Can I get a high-performing grill for under $200?
Absolutely! Many grills under $200 offer excellent performance, featuring even heating, good temperature control, and ample cooking space.
Can grills under $200 be durable?
Definitely. Even though they’re budget-friendly, many grills under $200 are made with robust materials for durability and long-term use.
How does fuel type influence the choice of a grill?
Fuel type affects the grill’s heat control, operational costs, and the flavor of the food. Charcoal grills offer a smoky flavor, gas grills provide ease and quick heating, and electric grills are convenient and ideal for areas with fire restrictions.
Can I smoke food on a grill under $200?
Yes, some grills under $200 offer smoker capabilities or are compatible with smoker boxes or wood chips to allow you to smoke food.
Top Manufacturer Resources for Best Grills Under $200
Char-Griller (https://www.chargriller.com): In my experience, the Char-Griller Support page is extremely helpful for anyone considering a grill from this brand. The resource offers detailed product manuals, assembly instructions, troubleshooting guides, and FAQs for their range of products. I’ve found this particularly useful for understanding the specific features and maintenance routines of their grills.
Royal Gourmet (http://royalgourmetusa.com): As an avid griller, I find the Royal Gourmet Blog to be a treasure trove of information. They offer a wealth of grilling tips, recipes, and product introductions that can be useful in getting the most out of your grill. The brand’s commitment to enhancing the grilling experience really shines through in its blog posts.
Cuisinart (https://www.cuisinart.com): This is an excellent resource if you’re considering a Cuisinart grill. From a firsthand perspective, their product manuals are comprehensive, easy to understand, and incredibly helpful for assembling and using their grills. This resource has made my experience with Cuisinart products smooth and enjoyable, so I highly recommend checking it out before making a purchase.
Thomas Francis is a renowned BBQ expert and grill master who has dedicated his life to the art of grilling and smoking meat. With an unparalleled passion for outdoor cooking, Thomas has honed his expertise over many years. He possesses extensive knowledge and skills in grilling techniques, smoking meat, and even creating delicious sauces to enhance the flavors.
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