5 Best Inexpensive Gas Grill You Should Upgrade to Before Grilling Season!

There’s nothing like firing up a gas grill in your backyard, on your deck, or at a weekend cookout.

But if you think you have to spend a fortune to get good grilling performance, think again. The Best Inexpensive Gas Grill models combine practicality, durability, and cooking power — all without forcing you to break the bank. Whether you’re a weekend burger flipper or a budding backyard chef, choosing an affordable grill that still delivers reliable heat distribution, sturdy construction, and user-friendly features is crucial.

Budget grills often get ignored for being “too basic,” but the right inexpensive gas grill can deliver consistent temperature control, better browning, and more cooking space than you expect. As grilling season approaches, now is the time to upgrade — even if you’re working with modest budget constraints. Delaying could leave you with a crowded store lineup or a grill that doesn’t meet your needs just when you need it most.

Below, we’ve reviewed five excellent inexpensive gas grills that deliver real performance in their price range — perfect for gatherings, family dinners, and everyday grilling.

1. Weber Spirit II E-310

Overview

The Weber Spirit II E-310 is widely considered one of the best inexpensive gas grills that still feels like a premium backyard cooker. It strikes an excellent balance between grill space, heat distribution, and overall durability, making it a standout value choice.

Key Features

  • GS4 high-performance grilling system
  • Porcelain-enameled cast-iron cooking grates
  • 3 stainless steel burners
  • Tuck-Away warming rack
  • Compatible with iGrill 3 thermometer (sold separately)

Pros

  • 10-year limited warranty
  • Excellent heat distribution
  • Sturdy build quality
  • Easy assembly

Cons

  • Slightly higher price than ultra-budget grills
  • Warming rack could be larger

Best For

Backyard families and regular grillers who want reliable performance without premium pricing.

2. Char-Broil Classic 360 3-Burner Gas Grill

Overview

The Char-Broil Classic 360 is a strong choice if you want a full-size grill experience on a budget. Its 3-burner array and 360 square inches of grilling space make it ideal for burgers, chicken, veggies, and more.

Key Features

  • 3 stainless steel burners
  • Stainless steel lid and porcelain-coated steel grates
  • Electronic ignition system
  • Side tables for prep space

Pros

  • Affordable full-size gas grill
  • Good heat control
  • Large cooking surface
  • Easy to use

Cons

  • Slightly heavier assembly required
  • Materials feel more entry-level

Best For

Budget-minded households that need 3-burner cooking capacity without high cost.

3. Royal Gourmet GD401 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill

Overview

For those who want maximum cooking area without spending a lot, the Royal Gourmet GD401 delivers four burners plus a side burner — an uncommon combination at this price point.

Key Features

  • 4 main burners + side burner
  • 400+ square inches main cooking grates
  • Piezo push-button ignition
  • Removable drip tray

Pros

  • Large cooking area
  • Side burner adds versatility
  • All-steel cart design
  • Even heat distribution

Cons

  • Warranty coverage is limited
  • Some assembly complexity

Best For

Grillers who regularly cook for larger groups but still want to stay within an inexpensive price bracket.

4. Cuisinart CGG-180T Petit Gourmet Portable Gas Grill

Overview

If you need an inexpensive grill for tailgating, camping, or patio spaces, the Cuisinart CGG-180T is a compact gem. Its folding legs and manageable footprint make it a travel-friendly choice.

Key Features

  • Stainless steel burners and grates
  • Foldable legs for transport
  • 145 square inches of cooking space
  • Tool hooks and drip tray

Pros

  • Excellent portability
  • Clean stainless-steel finish
  • Quick setup
  • Durable for its size

Cons

  • Small cooking area
  • Not suitable for large gatherings

Best For

Tailgaters, apartment balconies, and campers who want reliable gas grilling on the go.

5. Dyna-Glo DGSS464DNCV 4-Burner Gas Grill

Overview

The Dyna-Glo 4-Burner grill offers extra cooking space and solid heat control while staying under the inexpensive gas grill category. Its wide cabinet and side shelves make prepping and grilling easier.

Key Features

  • 4 stainless steel burners
  • Large cooking surface
  • Side shelves for extra workspace
  • Built-in thermometer

Pros

  • Spacious grilling area
  • Durable materials for the price
  • Easy ignition
  • Stable frame

Cons

  • Some minor assembly required
  • Not as premium as higher-end models

Best For

Weekend warriors and family cookouts where extra cooking surface matters.

Buyer’s Guide: What to Look for Before Buying

Heat Distribution and Burner Power

Affordable grills often compromise on even heat spread. Look for multiple burners with independent controls. Stainless-steel burners extend longevity and help with consistent performance.

Cooking Surface Size

Know how much space you really need:

  • Small/portable (~150–250 sq in): Ideal for singles/couples
  • Mid-size (~300–400 sq in): Everyday family grilling
  • Large (~400+ sq in): Cookouts and group meals

Materials and Durability

Steel construction with porcelain-coated grates or stainless burners slows corrosion and improves clean-up. Avoid thin steel lids that warp over time.

Ignition System

Piezo and electronic ignition systems improve reliability. Push-button ignitions are easier for quick startups.

Ease of Assembly

Some inexpensive grills require substantial assembly. Factor time and patience into your purchase decision.

Warranty Coverage

Entry-level grills typically offer shorter warranties. Prioritize models with longer frame or burner warranties for peace of mind.

SEO-Optimized FAQ Section

What makes a gas grill inexpensive but worth buying?

A good inexpensive gas grill combines sturdy construction, reliable burners, and thoughtful design without overpaying for features you don’t use. Quality materials and even heat spread matter more than extra bells and whistles.

Are inexpensive gas grills durable?

Yes — many inexpensive grills last for years when properly maintained, especially those with stainless-steel burners and porcelain-coated grates.

How much cooking space do I need?

Measure how many people you usually cook for.

  • 300–400 sq in is suitable for families of 4–6.
  • Smaller grills (~150–250 sq in) are fine for 1–2 people.

Do budget grills heat evenly?

Proper design with multiple burners and quality grates helps improve heat distribution, even at lower price points.

Is assembly difficult?

Some inexpensive grills require moderate assembly, but most include clear instructions and needed hardware.

Should I buy a grill cover?

Yes. A cover protects against rust and extends grill life, especially in wet climates.

What fuel type is best?

Propane is easy, portable, and ideal for home users. Natural gas versions require a conversion kit and gas line hookup.

Can inexpensive grills handle larger cuts of meat?

With enough burner power and cooking space, yes — briskets or roasts are possible but may take longer.

Conclusion

Affordable doesn’t have to mean flimsy. The Best Inexpensive Gas Grill options listed here deliver reliable performance, solid heat distribution, and long-term backyard usability — all without demanding a premium price.

  • The Weber Spirit II E-310 offers balanced everyday grilling.
  • The Char-Broil Classic 360 is a strong full-size budget choice.
  • The Royal Gourmet GD401 delivers extra burners and surface area.
  • The Cuisinart CGG-180T Petit excels in portability.
  • The Dyna-Glo DGSS464DNCV stands out with spacious cooking capacity.

Whether you’re feeding family or hosting friends, upgrading to an inexpensive gas grill now ensures you’re ready for grilling season — without overpaying for features you don’t need.1. Weber Spirit II E-310

Overview

The Weber Spirit II E-310 is widely considered one of the best inexpensive gas grills that still feels like a premium backyard cooker. It strikes an excellent balance between grill space, heat distribution, and overall durability, making it a standout value choice.

Key Features

  • GS4 high-performance grilling system
  • Porcelain-enameled cast-iron cooking grates
  • 3 stainless steel burners
  • Tuck-Away warming rack
  • Compatible with iGrill 3 thermometer (sold separately)

Pros

  • 10-year limited warranty
  • Excellent heat distribution
  • Sturdy build quality
  • Easy assembly

Cons

  • Slightly higher price than ultra-budget grills
  • Warming rack could be larger

Best For

Backyard families and regular grillers who want reliable performance without premium pricing.

2. Char-Broil Classic 360 3-Burner Gas Grill

Overview

The Char-Broil Classic 360 is a strong choice if you want a full-size grill experience on a budget. Its 3-burner array and 360 square inches of grilling space make it ideal for burgers, chicken, veggies, and more.

Key Features

  • 3 stainless steel burners
  • Stainless steel lid and porcelain-coated steel grates
  • Electronic ignition system
  • Side tables for prep space

Pros

  • Affordable full-size gas grill
  • Good heat control
  • Large cooking surface
  • Easy to use

Cons

  • Slightly heavier assembly required
  • Materials feel more entry-level

Best For

Budget-minded households that need 3-burner cooking capacity without high cost.

3. Royal Gourmet GD401 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill

Overview

For those who want maximum cooking area without spending a lot, the Royal Gourmet GD401 delivers four burners plus a side burner — an uncommon combination at this price point.

Key Features

  • 4 main burners + side burner
  • 400+ square inches main cooking grates
  • Piezo push-button ignition
  • Removable drip tray

Pros

  • Large cooking area
  • Side burner adds versatility
  • All-steel cart design
  • Even heat distribution

Cons

  • Warranty coverage is limited
  • Some assembly complexity

Best For

Grillers who regularly cook for larger groups but still want to stay within an inexpensive price bracket.

4. Cuisinart CGG-180T Petit Gourmet Portable Gas Grill

Overview

If you need an inexpensive grill for tailgating, camping, or patio spaces, the Cuisinart CGG-180T is a compact gem. Its folding legs and manageable footprint make it a travel-friendly choice.

Key Features

  • Stainless steel burners and grates
  • Foldable legs for transport
  • 145 square inches of cooking space
  • Tool hooks and drip tray

Pros

  • Excellent portability
  • Clean stainless-steel finish
  • Quick setup
  • Durable for its size

Cons

  • Small cooking area
  • Not suitable for large gatherings

Best For

Tailgaters, apartment balconies, and campers who want reliable gas grilling on the go.

5. Dyna-Glo DGSS464DNCV 4-Burner Gas Grill

Overview

The Dyna-Glo 4-Burner grill offers extra cooking space and solid heat control while staying under the inexpensive gas grill category. Its wide cabinet and side shelves make prepping and grilling easier.

Key Features

  • 4 stainless steel burners
  • Large cooking surface
  • Side shelves for extra workspace
  • Built-in thermometer

Pros

  • Spacious grilling area
  • Durable materials for the price
  • Easy ignition
  • Stable frame

Cons

  • Some minor assembly required
  • Not as premium as higher-end models

Best For

Weekend warriors and family cookouts where extra cooking surface matters.

Buyer’s Guide: What to Look for Before Buying

Heat Distribution and Burner Power

Affordable grills often compromise on even heat spread. Look for multiple burners with independent controls. Stainless-steel burners extend longevity and help with consistent performance.

Cooking Surface Size

Know how much space you really need:

  • Small/portable (~150–250 sq in): Ideal for singles/couples
  • Mid-size (~300–400 sq in): Everyday family grilling
  • Large (~400+ sq in): Cookouts and group meals

Materials and Durability

Steel construction with porcelain-coated grates or stainless burners slows corrosion and improves clean-up. Avoid thin steel lids that warp over time.

Ignition System

Piezo and electronic ignition systems improve reliability. Push-button ignitions are easier for quick startups.

Ease of Assembly

Some inexpensive grills require substantial assembly. Factor time and patience into your purchase decision.

Warranty Coverage

Entry-level grills typically offer shorter warranties. Prioritize models with longer frame or burner warranties for peace of mind.

SEO-Optimized FAQ Section

What makes a gas grill inexpensive but worth buying?

A good inexpensive gas grill combines sturdy construction, reliable burners, and thoughtful design without overpaying for features you don’t use. Quality materials and even heat spread matter more than extra bells and whistles.

Are inexpensive gas grills durable?

Yes — many inexpensive grills last for years when properly maintained, especially those with stainless-steel burners and porcelain-coated grates.

How much cooking space do I need?

Measure how many people you usually cook for.

  • 300–400 sq in is suitable for families of 4–6.
  • Smaller grills (~150–250 sq in) are fine for 1–2 people.

Do budget grills heat evenly?

Proper design with multiple burners and quality grates helps improve heat distribution, even at lower price points.

Is assembly difficult?

Some inexpensive grills require moderate assembly, but most include clear instructions and needed hardware.

Should I buy a grill cover?

Yes. A cover protects against rust and extends grill life, especially in wet climates.

What fuel type is best?

Propane is easy, portable, and ideal for home users. Natural gas versions require a conversion kit and gas line hookup.

Can inexpensive grills handle larger cuts of meat?

With enough burner power and cooking space, yes — briskets or roasts are possible but may take longer.

Conclusion

Affordable doesn’t have to mean flimsy. The Best Inexpensive Gas Grill options listed here deliver reliable performance, solid heat distribution, and long-term backyard usability — all without demanding a premium price.

  • The Weber Spirit II E-310 offers balanced everyday grilling.
  • The Char-Broil Classic 360 is a strong full-size budget choice.
  • The Royal Gourmet GD401 delivers extra burners and surface area.
  • The Cuisinart CGG-180T Petit excels in portability.
  • The Dyna-Glo DGSS464DNCV stands out with spacious cooking capacity.

Whether you’re feeding family or hosting friends, upgrading to an inexpensive gas grill now ensures you’re ready for grilling season — without overpaying for features you don’t need.

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