Independent buying guides for grilling and smoking

Buying guide

Ultimate Backyard Cookout

Updated How we research

The full-spread setup. The page is split into five sections (The Big Gas Grill; Griddle the Sides; Prep Station; Hold It Warm; Light the Night), followed by every pick ranked by our score so you can compare them in one place.

Juicy beef and chicken sizzling on a charcoal grill during a sunny outdoor cookout
Photo: Francesco Paggiaro on Pexels

The short version

We compared 20 picks. Our scores range from 7.6 to 8.8 out of 10.

Scores are our editorial assessment, not customer ratings. How we score

The Big Gas Grill

  1. Weber Genesis E-315 Liquid Propane Gas Grill, 3 Burners, BlackOur score8.8/10
  2. Weber Spirit E-325 Liquid Propane Gas Grill, 3 Burners + 2 Boost, BlackOur score8.6/10
  3. Weber® Spirit® E-425 Gas Grill, Outdoor Cooking, Propane Gas Grill, Black | Weber® Grill 4 Burners, Sear Zone w/Boost Burners, Porcelain-Enameled Cast-Iron Grates, Weber Works™ Rails, BBQ GrillOur score8.4/10
  4. Weber® Genesis E-415 Gas Grill for Outdoor Cooking, Propane Grill, BlackOur score8.4/10
Read the full guide: Best Gas Grills for Everyday Backyard Cooking (2026) →

Griddle the Sides

  1. Blackstone Original Portable Griddle with Built-in Hood, Black, 36 Inch | Flat Top BBQ Grill for Outdoor and Backyard Cooking Setup, Includes Extendable Side Shelves and Caster WheelsOur score8.6/10
  2. Blackstone 36 Inch Gas Griddle with Hood Cooking Station, 4 BurnerOur score8.6/10
  3. Blackstone 28 Inch Original Omnivore Griddle 2206, Blackstone 2 Burner Griddle Outdoor Flat Top Grill, Propane Portable Gas GrillOur score8.2/10
  4. Blackstone® 2439 Original 36" Omnivore Griddle with Airfryer Combo | Blackstone® 2439 BAR System, Integrated Hood, 4 Quart AirfryerOur score8.1/10
Read the full guide: Best Flat Top Griddles for Outdoor Cooking (2026) →

Prep Station

  1. Barbqtime Outdoor BBQ Prep Cart with Storage, Foldable Side Table, Stainless SteelOur score8.2/10
  2. Girarvs Outdoor Grill Table with 304 Stainless Steel Top, BBQ Prep CartOur score8.2/10
  3. Suncast Outdoor Grilling Prep Station Table with Storage, Taupe/BrownOur score7.6/10
  4. Leteuke Grill Cart for Blackstone Griddle, Portable Foldable Table with WheelsOur score7.6/10
Read the full guide: Best Grill Prep Stations (2026) →

Hold It Warm

  1. SearCook Universal Stainless Steel Grill Warming Rack, 3-Section, 15.75-37 inOur score8.8/10
  2. Universal Grill Foldable Warming Rack/Shelf for Blackstone 17/22/28/36, Pit BossOur score8.4/10
  3. BBQ Future Universal Adjustable Warming Rack, Folding Stainless Steel Upper RackOur score7.8/10
  4. DELSbbq Universal Adjustable Grill Warming Rack, Expandable 15.5 to 20.9 inOur score7.8/10
Read the full guide: Best Grill Warming Racks (2026) →

Light the Night

  1. Bright Eyes Magnetic Barbecue BBQ Grill Light Set, 2 Pack, Batteries IncludedOur score8.4/10
  2. IMAGE Magnetic Ultra-Bright Barbecue Grill Light, Flexible Gooseneck, 1 PairOur score8.2/10
  3. Grill Light, LED BBQ Light with Magnetic Base & 360° Flexible Gooseneck, Grilling Accessories for Men Dad Husband, Outdoor Grilling Gifts for Christmas, Father's Day/ 9 Batteries Included - Pack of 2Our score7.8/10
  4. LED Concepts BBQ Grill Lights Magnetic Base, 360 Flexible Gooseneck, Silver 1 PackOur score7.6/10
Read the full guide: Best Grill Lights (2026) →

All 20 picks, ranked by our score

Every product from the sections above, listed once. Sort by the criterion you care about most, or tick up to three to compare.

Tick up to 3 picks to compare them side by side.
Weber Genesis E-315 Liquid Propane Gas Grill, 3 Burners, Black#1
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The Weber Genesis E-315 3-burner liquid propane grill in black, a slightly simpler Genesis for serious weeknight grilling.

Fit for the job 9/10 · Features and specs 8/10 · Build and materials 9/10 · Value 9/10

  • + Proven Genesis platform gives even heat across a generous cooking area
  • + 3 burner layout is enough for direct searing plus an indirect zone
  • + Lower-spec E-315 usually costs less than newer Genesis trims while cooking similarly
  • - Runs on liquid propane only, so a natural gas hookup needs another model
  • - Lacks a side burner, so sauces and sides need to go on the stove
SearCook Universal Stainless Steel Grill Warming Rack, 3-Section, 15.75-37 in#2
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SearCook's universal stainless steel grill warming rack with 3-section design, adjustable from 15.75-37 in for many grills.

Fit for the job 9/10 · Features and specs 9/10 · Build and materials 8/10 · Value 9/10

  • + 15.75-37 in range fits small kettles through large gas grills
  • + 3-Section design adds stability across wide spans
  • + Stainless Steel resists rust and is easy to clean
  • - Multi-section rack takes more time to set up
  • - Wide rack may block grill lid closing on some models
Weber Spirit E-325 Liquid Propane Gas Grill, 3 Burners + 2 Boost, Black#3
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Weber's Spirit E-325 propane grill with 3 burners plus 2 boost burners, built for strong searing on a mid-size cart.

Fit for the job 9/10 · Features and specs 9/10 · Build and materials 8/10 · Value 8/10

  • + 2 boost burners add extra heat for a hard sear on steaks and chops
  • + Spirit line keeps a smaller footprint than Genesis for tighter patios
  • + 3 main burners still allow a proper two-zone setup for mixed cooks
  • - Smaller cooking area than a Genesis limits big-party batches
  • - Boost burners use more propane, so keep a spare tank on hand
Blackstone Original Portable Griddle with Built-in Hood, Black, 36 Inch | Flat Top BBQ Grill for Outdoor and Backyard Cooking Setup, Includes Extendable Side Shelves and Caster Wheels#4
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Blackstone Original 36-inch Omnivore griddle with four heat zones, a built-in hood and folding side shelves for outdoor breakfasts and burger nights.

Fit for the job 9/10 · Features and specs 9/10 · Build and materials 8/10 · Value 8/10

  • + Four independently controlled burners give four heat zones on a 36-inch Omnivore plate with built-in wind guards.
  • + Electric push-button ignition, rear grease management and caster wheels are listed for simple use and movement.
  • + Built-in hood protects the surface between cooks, and folding plus extendable side shelves add prep space.
  • - A 36-inch griddle takes a lot of patio space and needs its own propane supply.
  • - A flat-top does not give grill marks or smoke flavor, so it complements rather than replaces a grill.
Blackstone 36 Inch Gas Griddle with Hood Cooking Station, 4 Burner#5
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The Blackstone 36 inch gas griddle cooking station with hood and 4 burners, built for feeding crowds on a flat top.

Fit for the job 9/10 · Features and specs 9/10 · Build and materials 8/10 · Value 8/10

  • + 4 burner layout supports hot searing on one side and warming on the other
  • + Hood keeps heat in for steaming veggies and melting toppings
  • + Cooking station format adds shelf space for sauces, spatulas and plates
  • - Seasoning upkeep is required after each cook to protect the steel
  • - Flat top cannot give the char marks and smoky flavor of a grill grate
Weber® Spirit® E-425 Gas Grill, Outdoor Cooking, Propane Gas Grill, Black | Weber® Grill 4 Burners, Sear Zone w/Boost Burners, Porcelain-Enameled Cast-Iron Grates, Weber Works™ Rails, BBQ Grill#6
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Weber Spirit E-425 propane gas grill with four burners and a Boost Burner sear zone, a step down in price from the Genesis line for families who grill often.

Fit for the job 9/10 · Features and specs 8/10 · Build and materials 8/10 · Value 8/10

  • + Four burners with Boost Burners give a large sear zone, so one grill covers both steaks and slower side dishes.
  • + Porcelain-enameled cast-iron grates and stainless Flavorizer bars are listed for even heat and for steering grease away from the burners.
  • + Weber Works side rails take snap-on accessories (sold separately), and four tool hooks are included for spatulas and tongs.
  • - Priced below the Genesis models it stands in for, so it has a smaller feature set than that line, and the listing has no side burner.
  • - Accessories such as the bottle holder, extra hooks and lighting are sold separately, which adds to the total cost.
Weber® Genesis E-415 Gas Grill for Outdoor Cooking, Propane Grill, Black#7
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Weber Genesis E-415 propane grill in black with PureBlu burners, porcelain-enameled cast-iron grates, Flavorizer bars, a warming rack and side tables. A premium Genesis for cooks who also want Weber Crafted grillware compatibility.

Fit for the job 9/10 · Features and specs 8/10 · Build and materials 9/10 · Value 7/10

  • + PureBlu burners have a tapered design for a consistent flame, with raised openings that the listing says reduce clogs and corrosion
  • + Porcelain-enameled cast-iron grates hold heat for searing, and Flavorizer bars vaporize drippings and steer grease away from the burners
  • + Grates accept the Weber Crafted frame kit and grillware such as a pizza stone or griddle, and a pull-out tray handles grease
  • - The listing highlights name no side burner, which the Genesis E-335 in this guide includes
  • - Weber Crafted frame kit and grillware are sold separately, which adds to an already premium price
Universal Grill Foldable Warming Rack/Shelf for Blackstone 17/22/28/36, Pit Boss#8
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A universal foldable warming rack and shelf for Blackstone 17/22/28/36 griddles and Pit Boss grills.

Fit for the job 9/10 · Features and specs 8/10 · Build and materials 7/10 · Value 9/10

  • + Fits Blackstone 17/22/28/36 griddles and Pit Boss models
  • + Foldable design stores flat when not in use
  • + Keeps buns and cooked food warm above the griddle
  • - Fit on other brands may need adjustments
  • - Rack adds height that can block the griddle hood
Bright Eyes Magnetic Barbecue BBQ Grill Light Set, 2 Pack, Batteries Included#9
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Bright Eyes' magnetic barbecue BBQ grill light set, 2 pack with batteries included, for cooking after sunset.

Fit for the job 9/10 · Features and specs 8/10 · Build and materials 7/10 · Value 9/10

  • + 2 Pack lights both sides of the grill for clearer visibility
  • + Batteries Included, so the lights work right out of the box
  • + Magnetic base attaches quickly to steel grill parts
  • - Magnets will not stick to aluminum or stainless lids
  • - Battery lights need regular replacements
Blackstone 28 Inch Original Omnivore Griddle 2206, Blackstone 2 Burner Griddle Outdoor Flat Top Grill, Propane Portable Gas Grill#10
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Blackstone 28-inch Original Omnivore griddle with two independently controlled zones, a side shelf and wheels, a smaller and cheaper step down from the 36-inch size.

Fit for the job 8/10 · Features and specs 8/10 · Build and materials 8/10 · Value 9/10

  • + Omnivore plate technology is listed for even heating and lower fuel use, with two independent cooking zones.
  • + Rear grease opening feeds a grease cup, and the side shelf has integrated tool hooks.
  • + Wheels and a handle make the 2-burner griddle portable for camping or tailgates.
  • - At 28 inches it has noticeably less cooking area than the 36-inch griddles in this guide.
  • - Only two burners, so it feeds a smaller group than a 4-burner model.
Barbqtime Outdoor BBQ Prep Cart with Storage, Foldable Side Table, Stainless Steel#11
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Barbqtime's stainless steel outdoor BBQ prep cart with storage and a foldable side table, for organizing grill gear.

Fit for the job 9/10 · Features and specs 8/10 · Build and materials 7/10 · Value 8/10

  • + Foldable Side Table adds extra prep space only when you need it
  • + Storage area keeps sauces, tools and charcoal close at hand
  • + Stainless Steel top is easy to clean after handling raw meat
  • - Assembly of cart and folding table takes time
  • - Stainless top can dent under heavy impacts
Girarvs Outdoor Grill Table with 304 Stainless Steel Top, BBQ Prep Cart#12
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Girarvs outdoor grill table with a 304 stainless steel top, solid wood body, storage cabinet, drawer and spice rack on lockable wheels.

Fit for the job 9/10 · Features and specs 8/10 · Build and materials 7/10 · Value 8/10

  • + Solid wood construction with a 304 stainless steel top is listed for a sturdy prep surface.
  • + Cabinet, drawer, open shelves and a spice rack keep tools and seasonings together.
  • + Removable side shelf plus lockable casters make it easy to reposition on a patio.
  • - Solid wood needs more care in rain and sun than all-metal carts.
  • - The listing gives no table dimensions or weight capacity, so measure your space first.
IMAGE Magnetic Ultra-Bright Barbecue Grill Light, Flexible Gooseneck, 1 Pair#13
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IMAGE's magnetic ultra-bright barbecue grill light with flexible gooseneck, 1 pair, for clear grill visibility at night.

Fit for the job 9/10 · Features and specs 8/10 · Build and materials 7/10 · Value 8/10

  • + 1 Pair gives light from two angles for fewer shadows
  • + Ultra-Bright LEDs make it easier to check doneness
  • + Flexible Gooseneck adjusts to many grill shapes
  • - Check the battery life and type before buying for long cookouts
  • - Magnetic bases need steel surfaces to attach
Blackstone® 2439 Original 36" Omnivore Griddle with Airfryer Combo | Blackstone® 2439 BAR System, Integrated Hood, 4 Quart Airfryer#14
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Blackstone 2439 36-inch Omnivore griddle with two 4-quart airfryer drawers and a warming drawer built into the cabinet, for cooks who want a griddle-plus-sides station.

Fit for the job 8/10 · Features and specs 10/10 · Build and materials 8/10 · Value 6/10

  • + 768 sq in with four independent heat zones, plus two 4-quart airfryer drawers and a 4-quart warming drawer.
  • + Omnivore plate technology, an integrated hood and an extending side shelf are all listed.
  • + BAR System side shelves accept compatible accessories, so the station can be customized.
  • - The most expensive griddle in this guide, in a much higher price band than a basic 36-inch model.
  • - A large cabinet unit takes up a lot of space and is not meant to be moved often.
BBQ Future Universal Adjustable Warming Rack, Folding Stainless Steel Upper Rack#15
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BBQ Future's universal adjustable folding stainless steel upper warming rack, for keeping food warm on grills.

Fit for the job 8/10 · Features and specs 7/10 · Build and materials 8/10 · Value 8/10

  • + Adjustable width fits a wide range of grills
  • + Folding Stainless Steel rack is durable and space-saving
  • + Upper rack keeps finished food warm while cooking more
  • - Check the adjustment range fits your grill width before ordering
  • - May not attach securely to all grill designs
DELSbbq Universal Adjustable Grill Warming Rack, Expandable 15.5 to 20.9 in#16
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DELSbbq's universal adjustable grill warming rack, expandable from 15.5 to 20.9 in, for smaller grills and kettles.

Fit for the job 8/10 · Features and specs 8/10 · Build and materials 7/10 · Value 8/10

  • + 15.5 to 20.9 in expansion fits many compact grills
  • + Adjustable design allows a snug, secure fit
  • + Adds cooking space for buns, vegetables and warming
  • - Too narrow for large multi-burner grills
  • - Expandable joints can loosen with frequent adjustment
Grill Light, LED BBQ Light with Magnetic Base & 360° Flexible Gooseneck, Grilling Accessories for Men Dad Husband, Outdoor Grilling Gifts for Christmas, Father's Day/ 9 Batteries Included - Pack of 2#17
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Wulakeo magnetic BBQ light with a 360 degree 8.3-inch gooseneck and nine LEDs, battery powered with spares included, a budget pick for evening grilling.

Fit for the job 8/10 · Features and specs 7/10 · Build and materials 7/10 · Value 9/10

  • + Strong magnetic base clips to any metal grill surface with no tools or clamps.
  • + The 8.3-inch flexible gooseneck is listed as reaching deep into large grills and smokers.
  • + Includes nine AAA batteries, three of them spare, so it is ready to use right away.
  • - There is no clamp mount in the listing, so it only attaches to magnetic metal surfaces.
  • - Battery powered with nine LEDs, so brightness is modest compared with rechargeable lights.
Suncast Outdoor Grilling Prep Station Table with Storage, Taupe/Brown#18
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Suncast's outdoor grilling prep station table with storage in taupe and brown, a resin cabinet with a work surface.

Fit for the job 8/10 · Features and specs 7/10 · Build and materials 7/10 · Value 8/10

  • + Resin build does not rust and needs little maintenance outdoors
  • + Enclosed storage keeps grilling supplies hidden and dry
  • + Suncast is a well-known outdoor storage brand
  • - Resin surface is not heat-proof, so keep hot pans off it
  • - Taupe/Brown color may not match every patio setup
Leteuke Grill Cart for Blackstone Griddle, Portable Foldable Table with Wheels#19
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Leteuke's portable foldable grill cart with wheels, built as a table for Blackstone tabletop griddles.

Fit for the job 8/10 · Features and specs 7/10 · Build and materials 7/10 · Value 8/10

  • + Sized for Blackstone griddles for a stable cooking base
  • + Folds down for storage and transport to tailgates
  • + Wheels make moving the cart and griddle easier
  • - Check it fits your specific Blackstone griddle size before ordering
  • - Folding frames can wobble with heavy loads
LED Concepts BBQ Grill Lights Magnetic Base, 360 Flexible Gooseneck, Silver 1 Pack#20
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LED Concepts' BBQ grill light with magnetic base and 360 flexible gooseneck in silver, 1 pack for night grilling.

Fit for the job 8/10 · Features and specs 7/10 · Build and materials 7/10 · Value 8/10

  • + 360 Flexible Gooseneck aims light exactly where you need it
  • + Magnetic Base mounts easily to grill hoods or shelves
  • + Silver finish blends with stainless steel grills
  • - Single light may not illuminate large grills evenly
  • - Magnet grip weakens on hot or painted surfaces

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Grill Smoke Craft curates picks for US shoppers. Scores are our editorial assessment. We may earn a commission from links on this page.