9 Best Gas Grills Under 500 (November 2026)
The best gas grills under 500 include the Charbroil Portable Convective 1-Burner Propane Gas Grill for portable grilling, the MASTER COOK 3 Burner BBQ Propane Gas for family cookouts, and the Monument Grills 4 Burner Propane Gas Grill for searing control.
On this page (7 sections)
The best gas grills under 500 cover several needs, from compact tabletop cooking to full-size backyard grilling. The Monument Grills model is the strongest all-around pick for cooking space and searing control, while Charbroil is easier to carry and Kendane offers the largest stated cooking area.
We compared burner layouts, cooking areas, heat information, materials, storage features and portability. Our score weighs specs, features and buyer feedback against what you're shopping for.
If you're comparing budget tiers, start with our guide to How Much Does a Gas Grill Cost?. Shoppers with a tighter limit can also compare the best gas grills under 200 and the best gas grill under 100.
Our picks at a glance
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1
Best for portable grillingCharbroil Portable Convective 1-Burner Propane Gas Grill
9.7/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
2
-
3
Best for searing controlMonument Grills 4 Burner Propane Gas Grill
9.4/10 our score
See it on Amazon
- 4
Check itHUGROVE 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill for Outdoor
Best for organized patio cooking - 5
Check itMegamaster Propane 3 Burner Gas Grill
Best for warming-rack use - 6
Check itBESTFIRE Tabletop 2-Burner Gas Grill
Best for camping and tailgating - 7
Check itcookit 49000 BTU Propane Gas Grill
Best for multi-zone cooking - 8
Check itFeasto 2 Burner Propane Gas Grill
Best for small family meals - 9
Check itKendane 4-Burner Propane Gas BBQ Grill
Best for maximum cooking area
Which gas grills under 500 stand out?
The strongest gas grills under 500 separate themselves by the job they do best. Monument Grills leads for searing and capacity, Charbroil leads for portability, and MASTER COOK gives family cooks a balanced full-size layout.
That split matters because the right choice depends more on how you cook than on a single headline figure. A small household grilling a few items at a time may value a compact surface that is easy to heat and clean, while a larger household may need separate zones for different foods.
Monument Grills fits cooks who want room plus a dedicated area for high-heat searing. Charbroil fits cooks who need to carry the grill to a campsite, tailgate or small patio without giving up propane convenience.
MASTER COOK fits the middle ground, with three burners and a warming rack for family meals. Naming the job first makes the rest of the comparison easier to follow.
The picks that follow are ordered by their overall score. Use the sections below to match burner count, cooking area and storage features to your space and habits.
| Product | Best for | Cooking area | Burners | Size | Our score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Charbroil Portable Convective 1-Burner Propane Gas Grill | portable grilling | 190 sq. in. | 1 | 15 x 24.1 x 12.3 in | 9.7 |
| MASTER COOK 3 Burner BBQ Propane Gas | family cookouts | 472 sq. in. | 3 | 46.46 x 20.87 x 41.14 in | 9.5 |
| Monument Grills 4 Burner Propane Gas Grill | searing control | 525 sq. in. | 4 | 21.4 x 50.6 x 41.9 in | 9.4 |
| HUGROVE 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill for Outdoor | organized patio cooking | 459 sq. in. stated in product title and features | 4 | 19.41 x 40.35 x 40.16 in | 9.2 |
| Megamaster Propane 3 Burner Gas Grill | warming-rack use | 434 sq. in. | 3 | 9.1 | |
| BESTFIRE Tabletop 2-Burner Gas Grill | camping and tailgating | 2 | 16 x 15 x 13 in | 9.0 | |
| cookit 49000 BTU Propane Gas Grill | multi-zone cooking | 431 sq. in. | 19 x 48 x 45 in | 8.7 | |
| Feasto 2 Burner Propane Gas Grill | small family meals | 418 sq. in. | 2 | 21 x 50.4 x 43.3 in | 8.4 |
| Kendane 4-Burner Propane Gas BBQ Grill | maximum cooking area | 540 sq. in. in product features | 7.9 |
How we chose the best gas grills under 500
We looked first at the features that affect daily grilling: burner count, usable cooking area, fuel type, heat output, prep space and cleanup. A larger number alone did not decide the ranking.
A high BTU figure can suggest faster heating, but it does not tell you how evenly heat spreads, how easy the grates are to clean or how much room you have for tools. We treated heat output as one factor among several rather than as a promise of results.
Portable models were judged by their carry-friendly design and compact format. Full-size grills were compared by their cooking area, shelf layout, storage and control options.
For portable grills, weight, folding parts and overall size affect whether you will actually take the grill along. A model that stays in the garage because it is awkward to move loses much of its appeal.
For cart grills, the layout matters in daily use. Foldable shelves, warming racks, side tables and storage areas change how you stage food before it goes on and where pans rest while it cooks.
We also paid attention to materials that shape care over time. Porcelain-coated steel, stainless steel and cast iron each need a different cleaning approach, and a grease tray or drip pan can make cleanup simpler after a fatty meal.
The products are listed from highest score to lowest score. Product claims are kept separate from general buying advice, and we do not treat a listed BTU figure as a guarantee of cooking results.
Scores reflect how well each model matches a clear use case within this group. A lower score often means a narrower fit, such as a tabletop format or a single burner, rather than poor basic function.
We kept the comparison to propane models listed here so fuel type stays consistent. That makes it easier to compare cooking area, controls and care without mixing in other fuels.
Measure your outdoor space before you choose. A grill with shelves open can need far more width than the main body alone, and storage space at home matters just as much.
Best gas grills under 500 reviewed
Charbroil Portable Convective 1-Burner Propane Gas Grill
Charbroil Portable Convective 1-Burner Propane Gas Grill: Best for portable grilling
- 190 square inches of cooking space
- 11,000 BTU
- Porcelain-coated grates
- Folding legs
This compact Charbroil grill suits tailgates, camping and small outdoor spaces. Folding legs lock the lid in place for carrying.
Pros
- Small and portable
- Porcelain-coated grates
- Minimal assembly
Cons
- Smallest cooking area here
- Single burner
Charbroil is the clearest choice when you need a grill that can travel. Its 190 square inches of cooking space fit a smaller meal, while the 1-burner layout keeps the cooking surface simple to manage.
The porcelain-coated grates are designed for rust resistance and easier cleaning. Steel construction and a high-temperature finish add protection for outdoor use, but you should still let the grill cool and clean it after cooking.
Folding legs lock the lid in place, and heat-resistant handles help with carrying. The 15 x 24.1 x 12.3 inch size is much easier to store than a full cart grill.
Minimal assembly is required, and step-by-step instructions are included. The 11,000 BTU figure suits this compact format, but the single burner gives you less heat-zone separation than the larger picks.
Choose Charbroil for camping, tailgating or a small patio. If you need room for several dishes at once, move up to a 3- or 4-burner grill.
MASTER COOK 3 Burner BBQ Propane Gas
MASTER COOK 3 Burner BBQ Propane Gas: Best for family cookouts
- 472 sq. in. total cooking space
- 3 stainless steel burners
- 30,000 BTU
- Two foldable shelves
The MASTER COOK combines a 339 sq. in. primary area with a 133 sq. in. warming rack. Two foldable tables help manage prep space.
Pros
- Large primary cooking area
- Three burners
- Foldable side tables
Cons
- Cover sold separately
- Needs outdoor floor space
MASTER COOK is a strong family-cookout choice because its 472 square inches of total cooking space combine a 339 square inch primary area with a 133 square inch warming rack.
Three stainless steel burners produce 30,000 BTU per hour. The integrated piezoelectric ignition starts with a push and turn of the control knob, while the built-in thermometer gives you a way to watch the lid temperature.
Two foldable shelves create prep space when open and reduce the width when folded. Two heavy-duty wheel casters help with moving the grill around an outdoor cooking area.
The stainless steel control panel, chromium-plated control knob and stainless steel handle suit regular outdoor use. The grill is designed for outdoor spaces such as a backyard, garden, courtyard, terrace or balcony.
The grill cover is sold separately, so plan for weather protection. Choose MASTER COOK when you want a balanced 3-burner cart grill for everyday meals.
Monument Grills 4 Burner Propane Gas Grill
Monument Grills 4 Burner Propane Gas Grill: Best for searing control
- 525 sq. in. total grilling area
- Advanced broil zone
- 4 burners
- Foldable side shelves
The Monument Grills Mesa II 410FBZ gives you the largest stated cooking area among the top three picks and a dedicated broil zone for high-heat cooking.
Pros
- Largest cooking area in the top three
- Broil zone
- Foldable shelves
Cons
- Requires assembly
- Large footprint
Monument Grills is the best overall fit for shoppers who want 525 square inches of total grilling area and a dedicated broil zone. Four burners let you create more heat areas for foods that need different cooking temperatures.
The broil zone is a high-heat direct-cooking area for rapid searing and browning. The grill can reach up to 500°F in 5 minutes on full blast according to the product information, but actual results depend on conditions and use.
Enameled cast iron grates retain heat and create grill marks. The grill also has a flip-up warming rack, two foldable side shelves and a stainless steel side table for tools and ingredients.
The enamel-coated body, funnel-style grease management system and removable 430 stainless steel drip pan make cleanup more manageable. Large wheels and a built-in propane tank holder help with placement.
This grill requires assembly. Choose it when cooking space and searing control matter more than a small footprint.
HUGROVE 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill for Outdoor
HUGROVE 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill for Outdoor: Best for organized patio cooking
- 40,000 BTU
- 4 stainless steel burners
- Fold-down side tables
- Built-in propane tank storage
HUGROVE pairs 4 burners with fold-down tables, a spice rack and a built-in storage area for a 20 lb propane tank.
Pros
- Four burners
- Fold-down prep space
- Propane tank storage
Cons
- Cooking-area figures vary in the supplied product details
- Simple assembly required
HUGROVE suits a patio cook who wants four burners, organized prep space and storage for a propane tank. Four stainless steel burners provide 40,000 BTU, with 10,000 BTU assigned to each burner.
The product information gives 459 square inches in its main feature description, while another specification states 349 square inches. Because those figures differ, check the exact cooking-area layout before ordering if surface size is your main concern.
Fold-down side tables save space when the grill is stored. A built-in spice rack keeps small seasonings close, and four 360-degree swivel casters help move the grill across a patio, deck or lawn.
Two wheels lock to help keep the grill stable while cooking. The grease management system directs and collects grease, while the built-in area holds a 20 lb propane tank.
The black body and crimson-red lid create a distinct look. Choose HUGROVE for its burner count, storage layout and movable cart design, but verify the cooking-area figure first.
Megamaster Propane 3 Burner Gas Grill
Megamaster Propane 3 Burner Gas Grill: Best for warming-rack use
- 434 sq. in. cooking area
- Three 10,000 BTU burners
- Porcelain-coated steel grates
- Foldable shelves
Megamaster offers a practical 3-burner layout with foldable shelves and a warming rack. Porcelain-coated grates support simpler cleanup after cooking.
Pros
- Three burners
- Warming rack
- Foldable shelves
Cons
- No cover included in the listed components
- Smaller area than the 4-burner picks
Megamaster gives you a straightforward 3-burner layout with 434 square inches of cooking area, foldable shelves and a warming rack. Its three 10,000 BTU burners provide 30,000 BTU total.
Porcelain-coated steel grates support even heat distribution and are designed to resist rust and cracking. The porcelain steel firebox helps retain heat and adds rust protection to the cooking chamber.
A stainless steel control panel resists heat and is easier to wipe clean. The built-in thermometer helps you monitor the grill while the food cooks.
The foldable shelves provide a place for ingredients and tools, then reduce the storage width. The grill has two wheels for moving it around an outdoor cooking space.
Megamaster is a good middle ground for buyers who want more space than a portable grill without moving to a 4-burner model. Choose it for family meals where a warming rack matters.
BESTFIRE Tabletop 2-Burner Gas Grill
BESTFIRE Tabletop 2-Burner Gas Grill: Best for camping and tailgating
- 20,000 BTU total
- Removable legs
- Push-button ignition
- Removable grease tray
BESTFIRE is a compact tabletop option with 2 independently adjustable burners, removable legs and a locking lid for transport.
Pros
- Compact size
- Removable legs
- Thermometer included
Cons
- Tabletop format needs a stable surface
- Smaller than full-size cart grills
BESTFIRE is the best fit here for camping, tailgating, RV trips and other outdoor cooking where a full cart grill is too large. Its 2 burners provide 20,000 BTU total, with independent heat adjustment for more control.
Removable legs make setup, transport and storage easier. The locking lid and stainless steel handle support carrying, while the 16 x 15 x 13 inch size keeps the grill compact.
A push-button ignition starts the grill without a lighter. The built-in lid thermometer helps monitor heat, and the high dome lid gives more room for thick steaks, ribs and large cuts of meat.
The stainless steel cooking grates are dishwasher-safe, and the removable grease tray helps with cleanup. Included components are an adapter hose, grill cover, lid, thermometer and user manual.
The product information says batteries are not included, so plan to buy AA batteries separately if the ignition requires them. Choose BESTFIRE when portability matters more than a large cooking surface.
cookit 49000 BTU Propane Gas Grill
cookit 49000 BTU Propane Gas Grill: Best for multi-zone cooking
- 4 main burners and side burner
- Cast iron grids
- 431 sq. in. cooking area
- Griddle plate
cookit adds a side burner and griddle plate to a 4-burner layout. Its cast iron cooking surface suits buyers who want more than standard grate cooking.
Pros
- Side burner
- Griddle plate
- Cast iron grids
Cons
- Large 48 in width
- Product details state different heat figures
cookit is built for buyers who want several cooking zones in one cart. It has 4 main burners plus a side burner, a 431 square inch cooking area, cast iron grids and an added griddle plate.
The product title states 49,000 BTU, while the specifications state 19,800 BTU. Because those heat figures differ, compare the exact model details before buying if output is central to your decision.
The double-layer stainless steel lid helps hold heat, and the stainless steel handle is designed to stay cooler during use. Porcelain flame tamers spread heat across the cooking surface.
Two wings create extra serving or prep space. Tool holders, a built-in thermometer, a bottle opener and a storage cubby add places for cooking items and supplies.
The full-extension grease tray slides out, and the detachable cup helps collect grease. Choose cookit for the side burner and griddle plate, especially if you cook several foods at once.
Feasto 2 Burner Propane Gas Grill
Feasto 2 Burner Propane Gas Grill: Best for small family meals
- 418 sq. in. total grilling area
- 26,500 BTU
- Two side tables
- Porcelain-enamel design
Feasto gives a 2-burner grill a broad 418 sq. in. total area, including a 128 sq. in. warming rack. Two side tables add prep room.
Pros
- Broad area for a 2-burner grill
- Warming rack
- Two side tables
Cons
- Wide footprint
- No side burner
Feasto gives a 2-burner grill a broad 418 square inch total grilling area, including 290 square inches of grates and a 128 square inch warming rack. The layout suits small family cookouts where warming space is useful.
The flat stainless steel burners provide 26,500 BTU total. The porcelain-enameled grates are designed for high-heat cooking and easier cleanup after use.
The main body and lid use a porcelain-enamel design. Feasto states that this finish withstands heat up to 1,700°F and resists peeling, blistering and discoloration.
Two side tables provide prep space for ingredients and tools. The 21 x 50.4 x 43.3 inch footprint is wide for a 2-burner grill, so measure your patio or storage area carefully.
Choose Feasto when you want a simple 2-burner layout with more surface area than many compact grills. Skip it if you need a side burner or a narrow cart.
Kendane 4-Burner Propane Gas BBQ Grill
Kendane 4-Burner Propane Gas BBQ Grill: Best for maximum cooking area
- 540 sq. in. cooking area in product features
- 4 main burners and side burner
- Enameled cast iron grates
- Grill cover included
Kendane is the largest option by its stated cooking-area feature, with 4 main burners, a side burner, cabinet storage and an included cover.
Pros
- Large cooking area
- Side burner
- Cover included
Cons
- Heaviest grill here at 88 lb
- Product details state different cooking-area figures
Kendane is the capacity pick for shoppers who want four main burners, a side burner and a cover included. Its product features state 540 square inches of cooking area, with 400 square inches of cooking grates and a 140 square inch warming rack.
The 4 main burners and side burner provide 53,000 BTU according to the product features. The burner heads use 304 stainless steel, and the enameled cast iron grates are designed to leave grill marks.
The grill has a double-layer lid, heat-resistant handle and built-in thermometer. A bottom cabinet provides storage for cooking supplies and a propane tank.
The full-size pull-out oil drip tray collects grease for easier cleanup. A grill cover, lid, thermometer and user manual are included.
The product specifications state 632 square inches for cooking surface area, which differs from the 540 square inch feature figure. Confirm the exact layout before ordering if the cooking surface is the deciding factor.
How much cooking space do you need?
Choose about 190 square inches for compact meals and portability, around 400 to 475 square inches for regular family cooking, or 525 square inches and above for larger gatherings. Cooking area matters more than burner count when you often grill several foods at once.
That range is a guide, not a rule. The foods you cook together matter as much as the number of people at the table, because a single type of food can share one surface while mixed dishes need separation.
Charbroil has the smallest surface here, while Monument Grills and Kendane offer the broadest stated areas. A warming rack adds holding space, but it isn't the same as the primary grate area.
A warming rack is useful for keeping cooked items warm while the last pieces finish. It does not add the same direct cooking space as the main grates, so it should not be counted the same way when you plan a meal.
Think about the foods you cook together. Burgers, vegetables and buns may need separate zones, while a single type of food can work well on a smaller surface.
Burner count supports cooking area, but it does not replace it. Three burners spread across a small surface can still feel crowded, while two burners on a broad surface may suit simple meals well.
Side tables and shelves also affect usable space in practice. Prep room beside the grates keeps raw ingredients, tools and platters within reach without covering the cooking surface.
Keep the total footprint in mind as well. A wide grill may offer plenty of cooking area yet need a large patio, clear storage space and room to open shelves fully.
For small households, a compact area often heats faster and is easier to clean. For frequent gatherings, extra area reduces the need to cook in batches and keeps timing simpler.
If you cook the same meals every week, base your choice on your usual menu. If your needs change from week to week, choose the larger surface and accept the added space it requires.
Is a 2-burner or 3-burner grill better?
A 2-burner grill is easier to keep simple and often suits smaller households. A 3-burner grill gives you more heat separation and more room for indirect cooking without the footprint of many 4-burner models.
The choice comes down to how often you cook different foods at different temperatures. One or two items at a time rarely needs more than two burners, while a full meal with meat, vegetables and sides benefits from added separation.
BESTFIRE and Feasto are the 2-burner options here. MASTER COOK and Megamaster use 3 burners, with larger cooking areas and warming racks.
With two burners, you can often run one side hotter than the other for simple two-zone cooking. That works well for burgers with vegetables, or for searing first and finishing at lower heat.
With three burners, you gain a steadier middle zone and more flexibility for indirect cooking. That extra zone can help when a roast or thick cut needs gentle heat while other foods cook directly.
A 4-burner grill makes more sense when you cook several foods at different temperatures. Monument Grills, HUGROVE, cookit and Kendane all use 4 main burners, though cookit and Kendane add side burners.
More burners also add more controls to manage and clean. Each burner area needs attention during cooking, and the extra complexity may not pay off for quick weekday meals.
Cooking area should be checked alongside burner count. A 2-burner grill with a broad surface may handle a family meal better than a 3-burner grill with a cramped layout.
Side burners serve a different purpose from main burners. They help with sauces and sides, but they also take space that could otherwise hold food on the main grates.
Choose 2 burners for simplicity and smaller meals. Choose 3 burners for better separation without a full-size cart footprint, and choose 4 burners when mixed menus are routine.
What should you check before setting up a propane grill?
Set the grill outdoors on a stable surface with enough room around it for safe use and access. Assemble it according to the included instructions, connect the correct propane equipment and check the controls before cooking.
Give yourself clear space on all sides for opening the lid, reaching controls and moving safely with hot pans. A grill placed too close to a wall, fence or stored items can make normal cooking awkward.
Measure the grill's full width with shelves open, not only the body. MASTER COOK, Monument Grills, Feasto and cookit all include shelf or side-table features that affect the space you need.
Check the height with the lid open as well. Tall lids need overhead clearance, and low branches or a covered patio roof can limit how far the lid can open.
Assemble the grill according to the included instructions and check each connection before the first cook. Tighten fittings as directed, confirm the propane connection and test the controls so you know how each burner responds.
Let the grill cool before cleaning. Remove grease from the tray or cup, wipe cooking surfaces as directed for the grate material and keep the grill dry between uses.
Cleaning needs to match the grate material. Porcelain-coated grates, cast iron and stainless steel each respond differently to brushes, water and detergents, so follow the guidance for your model.
Empty the grease tray or cup regularly rather than waiting until it is full. Built-up grease makes cleanup harder and can affect the cooking area above it.
A cover can help limit exposure to rain, dust, leaves and sun. Some models include one, while MASTER COOK states that its cover is sold separately.
Store the grill in a dry place when possible and keep it covered between uses. Dry storage slows rust and keeps dust and debris off the cooking surfaces.
Before each cook, do a quick check of the burners, grates and propane connection. A short inspection catches loose parts early and helps the first meal of the season go smoothly.
Which gas grill under 500 should you choose?
Pick Monument Grills if you want the strongest mix of cooking area, 4 burners and a broil zone. Pick Charbroil if portability is the main goal, or choose MASTER COOK for a family-size 3-burner cart.
Choose BESTFIRE for camping and tailgating, Feasto for a broad 2-burner layout, or Kendane for a large grill with a side burner and included cover. If you want more budget comparisons, see the best gas grill under 1000 guide.
Protect the area beneath your grill with the Best Grill Mat For Under Gas Grills if your outdoor setup needs an extra surface barrier. For a broader category comparison, see our Best Gas Grill guide.
Our top 3 picks at a glance
-
1
Best for portable grilling
Charbroil Portable Convective 1-Burner Propane Gas Grill
9.7/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
2
-
3
Best for searing control
Monument Grills 4 Burner Propane Gas Grill
9.4/10 our score
See it on Amazon
Frequently asked questions
What is the best gas grill under 500?
The Monument Grills 4 Burner Propane Gas Grill is the best gas grill under 500 for shoppers who want broad cooking space and searing control. It has 525 square inches of total grilling area, 4 burners, foldable shelves and an advanced broil zone.
Choose a smaller portable model for easier transport.
How many burners should a gas grill under 500 have?
Choose 2 burners for smaller meals and simple two-zone cooking, or 3 to 4 burners for family meals and better heat separation. A side burner helps with sauces and sides, but it also adds another control area.
Compare burner count with cooking space, not by itself.
Are tabletop gas grills worth choosing?
A tabletop gas grill makes sense when portability matters more than cooking area. BESTFIRE has 2 burners, removable legs, a locking lid and a compact 16 x 15 x 13 inch size.
You need a stable outdoor table or other suitable surface before cooking.
What should I check before buying a gas grill under 500?
Check the cooking area, burner count, total footprint, fuel type and cleanup design first. Then look for details that match your routine, such as foldable shelves, a warming rack, a side burner, a grease tray or included cover.
Measure the storage space before ordering.
