Grill Like a Pro: 5 Best Gas Grills Under $1000

Nothing beats the smoky taste of food cooked on a grill, and gas variants still offer the convenience and speed that many people love. But the sheer number of choices out there can be overwhelming, especially if you’re trying to keep costs down.

I’ve tested many models to help you find the best gas grills under $1000 that won’t leave your wallet feeling empty. Keep reading to find out which one comes out on top!

1. Weber Genesis E-325S – Best Overall

Specifications

• Number of main burners: 3
• Main burner BTU (total): 39,000
• Side burners: 0
• Primary cooking space (sq. in.): 513
• Material: Alloy steel

The Weber Genesis E-325s comes pretty close to grilling perfection for under $1000. If you’re looking to max out your budget and get a truly great grill, this one should be on your radar.

This grill’s 3 main burners pack a 39,000 BTU-per-hour punch, enough to handle pretty much anything you throw at it. Plus, there’s a dedicated sear zone burner with 13,000 BTUs.

You also get a lot of cooking space. The main grilling area is 531 square inches, which is enough for a decent-sized cookout. The warming rack adds another 128 square inches, which is handy for keeping cooked food warm or toasting buns.

I’ve seared pork chops, thick steaks, and even delicate fish filets on this thing, and the results are always spot-on. You get a good, fast sear without overcooking the inside.

I even did a test run with a 1 1/2-inch thick steak on high heat at 500 degrees. A quick two-minute sear on each side, followed by a four-minute covered cook, resulted in a steak with restaurant-quality sears and flavor.

Another time, I grilled a whole cut-up chicken at a medium 350 degrees for about 45 minutes. It came out a beautiful golden-mahogany color, not burnt at all, but with a nice depth of flavor.

I like how well it holds its temperature. It heats up fast, usually within about five minutes, and stays at the temperature you set.

The dials are easy to read, and the center dial lets you fine-tune the sear zone’s temperature on the fly. There’s also plenty of room between the grates and the warming rack for flipping and basting, which makes a big difference.

Cleanup isn’t a chore either. The porcelain-enameled cast-iron grates are easy to scrub clean, and the grease collects in a drip tray with a disposable liner.

Beyond the actual grill, the side tables are sturdy and provide ample space for prep work. The grill itself is on wheels, and they lock, so you can move it around easily but keep it secure while you’re cooking.

And if you want to go all out, Weber offers a bunch of accessories for the Genesis series.

There is even a smart sensor system that monitors temperature and sends you alerts through an app. You can even buy smoke boxes to transform it into the best gas grill with a smoker.

At the top end of the $1000 price range, this might be too much for those with small families or limited outdoor space.

It’s also a bit of a beast to assemble. There are a lot of parts, and while the instructions are clear, you’ll probably want a second pair of hands. Plan for about an hour of assembly time before you can start grilling.

Pros

• Ample cooking space
• Powerful, even heat with effective searing
• Minimal flare-ups
• Sturdy build with easy cleaning
• Several add-ons available

Cons

• Pushes the $1000 budget limit
• Possibly overkill for small families

2. Royal Gourmet GB8000 – Best for Large Gatherings

Specifications

• Number of main burners: 8
• Main burner BTU (total): 104,000
• Side burners: 0
• Primary cooking space (sq. in.): 969
• Material: Alloy steel

This eight-burner model is hands-down the best choice if you’re cooking for a family reunion, block party, or even catering a small event. It’s not subtle, it’s not portable, but it is powerful and gets the job done.

Royal Gourmet isn’t messing around with a total cooking area of 969 square inches. That’s enough space for a ridiculous amount of hot dogs, more burgers than you can count, or even 8-10 racks of ribs at once.

What sets this grill apart is the unique dual-zone cooking system. Each side has its own set of four burners (13,000 BTUs each, adding up to a whopping 104,000 BTUs total) and requires a separate propane tank.

Yes, two tanks might seem like a lot, but with this much grilling power, it’s necessary. Remember that those two propane tanks won’t fit under the grill like a standard model.

I once used this grill for a summer family gathering with nearly 20 folks. It handled everything from burgers and dogs to corn on the cob and even a whole salmon without breaking a sweat.

The independent temperature control of each zone is a game changer. I was able to have a high heat zone for searing and a lower heat zone for slow cooking, all at the same time.

The grill itself is made of sturdy stainless steel. It seemed to be able to withstand a fair amount of wear and tear without rusting or looking beat up.

You also get two folding side tables. They offer a decent amount of prep space, although I wouldn’t mind if they were a bit larger. While it doesn’t have any smart tech, the two-tiered storage system is a practical touch for keeping your grilling essentials organized.

The wind deflectors are also a plus. They helped me have a good time even when there was a bit of a breeze. And cleanup isn’t as daunting as you might think, thanks to the removable trays and deflectors.

Now, let’s be real, this grill is massive. It’s not designed for portability, and moving it around requires a few people. Assembly is pretty straightforward, but it does take a while simply due to the grill’s size.

Another issue, which is a bit more serious, is the placement of the regulator hose attachment.

It’s right next to the drip pan. This means if the pan catches fire (and it did happen to me on a windy day), the hose can get damaged.

Pros

• Exceptional cooking power with 8 burners
• Dual-zone design
• Spacious grilling area for a huge amount of food
• Even heat distribution
• Easy-to-clean design with removable components

Cons

• Lengthy assembly process
• Large and heavy
• Some minor design flaws

3. Monument Grills 24367 – Best Versatility

Specifications

• Number of main burners: 4
• Main burner BTU: 72,000
• Side burners: 1 (12,000 BTU)
• Primary cooking space (sq. in.): 513
• Material: Iron, stainless steel

This grill earns its badge by offering many abilities without emptying your wallet. It’s a solid choice for folks who like to mix things up at cookouts.

One thing that really struck me about the Monument Grills 24367 is how easy it was to assemble. For a grill this size, everything went together smoothly and quickly. Just remember to oil those porcelain-coated cast-iron grates before you get cooking.

The grill itself has a nice, clean look with its stainless steel construction. The lid, doors, and side shelves are all 430 stainless steel, the same kind you’d find inside a decent dishwasher or fridge. It feels pretty sturdy and has held up well in my backyard.

The Monument Grills 24367 offers a generous 513-square-inch main cooking area powered by four burners. What makes it stand out is the addition of a 12,000-BTU side burner and a dedicated sear burner.

Firing it up is easy, thanks to the electronic ignition. The control knobs are also super responsive, making it easy to fine-tune the heat.

I found I could easily dial in the temperature from high to low without any fuss. Whether you’re searing steaks or slow-cooking ribs, you’ll have the control you need.

During my testing, I cooked up everything from burgers and brats to fish and steaks. I was able to get the grill screaming hot – up to 400 degrees – pretty quickly. The porcelain-enameled cast iron cooking grates deliver those beautiful char marks we all love.

The sear station is a real standout feature. You can sear your steaks before or after cooking, depending on how you like them.

I found that cooking over medium heat for a bit longer gave me the best results overall. The side burner is also incredibly handy. I used it to make some grilled veggies while the steaks were searing.

The little things, like the accessory hooks, the removable grease drip pan, and the roomy storage cabinet, add to the overall experience. And get the control knobs even have LEDs so you can grill at night.

The grease tray is designed with a wide funnel to catch drippings and prevent messes in the cabinet and around the propane tank. And despite its size, this grill is surprisingly easy to move around.

I must admit it took me a little while to get the hang of controlling the temperature, especially at lower settings. Preheating the grill definitely helps with consistency.

I also noticed some uneven heating – hotter in the back and cooler in the front. This resulted in some uneven charring on my burgers. It’s not a deal breaker, but something to be aware of.

Pros

• Suitable for many types of recipes
• Large cooking area
• Simple ignition and cooking process
• Effective side burner and sear station
• Good mobility despite the size

Cons

• Takes time to master temperature control
• Cold spots near the front of the grill

4. Weber Spirit II E-310 – Best Value

Specifications

• Number of main burners: 3
• Main burner BTU: 30,000
• Side burners: 0
• Primary cooking space (sq. in.): 424 (plus 105 sq. in. rack)
• Material: Cast iron

The E-310 is a popular choice among BBQ enthusiasts. It hits a sweet spot between price and performance, delivering a solid experience without breaking the bank.

I really appreciate how easy it is to put together. It arrived in a bunch of pieces, sure, but I had it up and running in about an hour. The instructions were clear, and everything just clicked into place.

This Weber isn’t your grandpa’s rusty old grill. It’s got a modern, sleek design, and you can even choose from different hood colors. I went with the classic black, but they have some brighter options if that’s your style.

Beyond looks, this thing is built to last. Weber uses heavy-gauge sheet metal, stainless steel burners, and signature cast-iron grates. The porcelain enamel finish on the hood keeps rust away, and while there’s some plastic, it’s strategically placed to fight corrosion.

The cooking performance is where the Spirit II E-310 really shines. Those burners pump out 30,000 BTUs, heating up the grill super fast. I hit 500 degrees in just a few minutes, and the heat is nice even across the grilling surface.

It also has two side tables, perfect for prepping, and one of them folds down if you’re short on space. There’s also a warming rack to keep cooked food warm while you finish up.

The GS4 grilling system includes a rock-solid ignition – no messing around with lighters or matches. Temperature control is excellent, too, even at lower settings. I used a single burner on low, and it held steady, thanks in part to the built-in lid thermometer.

Actually, using the grill was a breeze. I oiled the grates, and they were seasoned in no time.

I’ve cooked everything from burgers and hot dogs to veggies on this thing, and it all comes out perfectly. I was also impressed by the lack of flare-ups, which meant those flavorizer bars really worked. It’s simply the best grill for steaks at this price range.

Another cool feature is the reversible grill plates. One side is thicker for searing, and the other is thinner for more delicate cooking. It’s a versatile setup. You can even add Weber’s iGrill 3, a Bluetooth thermometer if you want to get fancy, but it’s not included.

The Spirit II E-310 fits perfectly on my small deck, but it’s still large enough for my family’s cookouts. I also like the fuel gauge; you can see exactly how much propane is left. It’s a small thing, but it’s helpful.

Remember that if you regularly cook for a crowd, you might want something bigger. There’s also no side burner, which is a shame if you like to multitask while grilling.

And because it’s compact, the hood isn’t very deep. It’s fine for most things but not ideal for big roasts or whole chickens.

Pros

• Great performance considering its price point
• Sleek, modern design
• High-quality materials
• Reliable ignition and temperature control
• Bluetooth thermometer compatible
• Portable and compact

Cons

• Lacks a side burner
• Shallow hood
• Not ideal for big gatherings

5. Weber Q 1200 – Best Portable

Specifications

• Number of main burners: 1
• Main burner BTU: 8,500
• Side burners: 0
• Primary cooking space (sq. in.): 189
• Material: Aluminum, cast iron

The Q 1200 isn’t your typical full-sized cooker. But it’s the best propane gas grill for quick meals on a small patio, tailgating, or even road trips.

Assembly? A piece of cake. Seriously, it took me under 30 minutes with just a screwdriver, thanks to the clear instructions and well-fitting components. The only slightly fiddly bit was the perforated screen on the stand, but even that wasn’t a major hurdle.

Operation is equally straightforward, with push-button ignition and a simple heat control dial. It’s grilling for dummies in the best possible way.

Weber’s propane setup works with those small 1-pound canisters, but you can also use an adapter for a standard 20-pound tank if you prefer. The small fold-out side tables are convenient for keeping tools and condiments close by, but I wouldn’t put anything too heavy on them.

Don’t let the Q 1200’s small size fool you; it packs a punch. The 8,500 BTU burner might not look like much, but it heats up to searing temperatures incredibly fast.

This little kettle-bell-shaped grill can handle a surprising amount of food. I’ve cooked six big burger patties and a whole cut-up chicken at once without any issues.

The burner runs along three sides, distributing heat evenly so you can use the entire grilling surface. I also like using the edges as a warming area when I’m not cooking a huge batch.

The heavy-duty firebox does a great job of holding and distributing heat, minimizing hot spots. I also noticed fewer flare-ups compared to other portable grills I’ve used.

In the end, I got perfectly seared burgers with impressive browning. Even for lower-temperature cooking, like chicken or sausages, it held steady and produced juicy, flavorful results.

Still, a portable grill isn’t going to offer the precise control of a full-sized model. There’s also a bit of a learning curve with the Q 1200, especially when it comes to temperature regulation during preheating.

And at around 30 pounds, it’s not exactly feather-light. Carrying it requires two hands, partly because the lid doesn’t latch securely.

Pros

• Highly portable
• Quick assembly
• Powerful for its size
• User-friendly
• Durable construction
• Excels at both searing and slow cooking

Cons

• Limited features compared to larger grills
• Heavier than similar models

How I Tested Those Grills

I practically lived with the above grills for a good few months. They became regular fixtures in my backyard, even joining me on a camping trip.

I wanted to see how each grill handled different foods and cooking methods. They were used to grill everything from steaks and burgers to onions and salmon. I checked how well they handled high heat for searing, low heat for slower cooking, and everything in between.

One of the main things I looked for was even cooking. Is the heat distributed properly, or am I getting burnt spots next to raw spots?

I also paid close attention to how quickly the food was cooked and whether there were any flare-ups. With steaks and chicken especially, I was looking for that perfect balance of a good sear without overcooking.

But it’s not just about the grilling. I also looked at how sturdy these grills were, how quick to assemble them, and how easy they were to use. Things like extra shelves, tool holders, and a good thermometer – those are the details that matter.

How to Choose a Grill Under $1000

Number of Burners

When you’re shopping for a grill, this is a good starting point.

Two burners are usually enough for small families or apartment balconies. But if you’re regularly feeding a crowd or just like having more cooking options, three or more burners give you the flexibility to set up different heat zones.

A portable grill, on the other hand, could be a neat addition if you enjoy camping or tailgating.

More burners are a must for large gatherings. Image: Freepik

Cooking Area

Pay attention to how much food you normally grill at once. How many burgers, chicken breasts, or veggie skewers? Make sure the grill you choose is big enough to handle it.

Some also come with a secondary cooking area – usually a warming rack above the main grate. It’s great for toasting buns or keeping cooked food warm while you finish grilling the rest.

Fuel Source

Most grills have a liquid propane (LP) version that uses 20-pound tanks. You can grab them at any hardware store and hook them to your grill, which is convenient as you can move your party to anywhere you like.

If your house has a natural gas line, some grills can hook directly into that. This saves you from ever having to refill tanks, but it does limit where you can place the grill. You’re tied to wherever the gas line runs.

Heating Output

The number you always see is BTUs (British Thermal Units). It shows how much heat each burner pumps out and how much fuel it gulps down hourly.

More BTUs don’t always mean better grilling. A grill with a well-made firebox will be more efficient, so you won’t need as many BTUs to hit high temperatures.

Build Quality

Different parts have different priorities. The burners, burner boxes, and grates are the stars of the show. Stainless steel burners are the way to go, while grates can be stainless steel or cast iron.

Many grill pros prefer cast iron grates for their heat retention and awesome searing. They also love the non-stick layer that builds up over time.

Still, stainless steel is your best bet when it comes to durability and easy cleaning. Both materials can be coated with ceramic or enamel for even simpler cleanup.

For the grill’s body, it’s a different story. Cheaper grills often use cast aluminum. It’s light but likely to give up the ghost after a few years of use and weather. Quality grills usually have stainless steel bodies, which don’t get rusted easily.

Easy of Use

Most grills come unassembled, which can take a while to put together, maybe an hour or two if you’re not handy. Reputable brands try to make this less of a headache with clear instructions and even walkthrough videos.

Cleanup is another factor. Look for features like grease trays and removable parts.

A user-friendly grill makes cooking more enjoyable. Image: Freepik

Extra Features

When you’re looking at grills, all the little extras can really add up to a better grilling experience.

Side tables are a plus, giving you a place to set things down while you’re busy at the grill. Hooks for utensils are always welcome. A warming rack is super handy for keeping food warm without overcooking while you finish up other items.

If you often cook multiple dishes at once, a side burner can be a game-changer. It allows you to cook in a pan or pot without having to go back and forth to the kitchen.

Price

A thousand bucks is still a wide spectrum. There’s no need to shell out top dollar on the best propane barbecue grills if your needs are more basic.

Think about what features are important to you and how often you’ll actually use the grill. A less expensive grill might be perfectly adequate, especially if you’re a casual griller. It might be a much smarter purchase than a $900 one loaded with features you’ll never use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Gas grilling offers a no-fuss approach to outdoor cooking. No more messy charcoal or long waits for the fire to get going. With a decent gas grill, you’ll be flipping burgers and grilling veggies in no time. Check out my recommendations, and you’ll find the best gas grills under $1000 that’ll make your backyard the go-to spot for delicious food and good times.