Independent buying guides for grilling and smoking

Grills

Grills range from quick-starting gas to smoky charcoal and set-and-forget pellet models. The right one depends on how often you cook, how many people you feed and how much you care about fire-driven flavour.

A man seasons steak on a grill for a backyard barbecue, displaying outdoor cooking
Photo: Erik Mclean on Pexels
Best Kettle Grills for Classic Charcoal Cooking (2026)

Best Kettle Grills for Classic Charcoal Cooking (2026)

Compare the best kettle grills for grilling and light smoking. Learn about airflow, size, and build quality before you buy this classic.

Best Gas Grills for Everyday Backyard Cooking (2026)

Best Gas Grills for Everyday Backyard Cooking (2026)

Compare the best gas grills for backyard cooking. Learn what BTUs, burners, and build quality actually matter before you buy your next grill.

Best Charcoal Grills for Serious Flavor (2026)

Best Charcoal Grills for Serious Flavor (2026)

Find the best charcoal grills for smoky flavor and high-heat searing. Learn about airflow, materials, and grate design before you buy.

Best Pellet Grills for Backyard Cooks (2026)

Best Pellet Grills for Backyard Cooks (2026)

Compare the best pellet grills for set-and-forget smoking and grilling. Learn about temperature control, hoppers, and build quality here.

Best Kamado Grills for Versatile Outdoor Cooking (2026)

Best Kamado Grills for Versatile Outdoor Cooking (2026)

Discover the best kamado grills for grilling, smoking, and baking. Learn about ceramic build, airflow control, and heat retention here.

Best Portable Gas Grills for Camping and Tailgates (2026)

Best Portable Gas Grills for Camping and Tailgates (2026)

Compare the best portable gas grills for camping, tailgates, and small patios. Learn about weight, fuel type, and heat output before buying.

Best Flat Top Griddles for Outdoor Cooking (2026)

Best Flat Top Griddles for Outdoor Cooking (2026)

Find the best flat top griddles for breakfasts, smash burgers, and stir-fries. Learn about surface size, materials, and heat zones here.

Best Portable Charcoal Grills for On-the-Go Flavor (2026)

Best Portable Charcoal Grills for On-the-Go Flavor (2026)

Compare the best portable charcoal grills for camping and picnics. Learn about size, airflow, and durable build before you buy.

Best Infrared Grills for High-Heat Searing (2026)

Best Infrared Grills for High-Heat Searing (2026)

Discover the best infrared grills for fast, even, high-heat searing. Learn how infrared burners work and what to look for before buying.

Best Built-In Gas Grills for Outdoor Kitchens (2026)

Best Built-In Gas Grills for Outdoor Kitchens (2026)

Compare the best built-in gas grills for outdoor kitchens. Learn about sizing, materials, and installation needs before you commit.

Best Tabletop Grills for Small Spaces (2026)

Best Tabletop Grills for Small Spaces (2026)

Find the best tabletop grills for balconies, patios, and travel. Learn about fuel type, cooking area, and portability before you buy.

Best Hibachi Grills for Compact Charcoal Cooking (2026)

Best Hibachi Grills for Compact Charcoal Cooking (2026)

Discover the best hibachi grills for high-heat charcoal cooking in small spaces. Learn about materials, airflow, and size before buying.

How to choose

  • Choose gas for weeknight speed and easy temperature control.
  • Choose charcoal for high searing heat and smoky flavour.
  • Choose pellet grills for hands-off cooking and smoking.
  • Size the cooking area, around 400-500 sq in for most families.

Common questions

Should I buy a gas or charcoal grill?

Gas suits frequent weeknight grilling. Charcoal suits people who want more flavour and higher heat and do not mind 15-20 minutes of lighting time.

What size grill do I need?

About 400-500 square inches of primary cooking space feeds most families. Choose larger if you host often or cook with indirect heat.